Energy dissipating pipeline surge relief system

Abstract

A pressure surge relief system for a liquid transporting pipeline, comprising a surge relief line adapted to be tapped from the pipeline. The relief line includes a valve which is conditioned to open quickly to substantial flow when the pressure in the line exceeds a predetermined safe limit, which is well above the normal pipeline pressure. When the valve opens, it diverts to a closed receptacle, that quantity of liquid which is necessary to prevent the pressure from exceeding said predetermined limit. Hence, in the event of the surge, much of the pressure is absorbed in the liquid and pipe, and just that quantity of liquid which is necessary to relieve pressures of unsafe proportions is discharged to the closed receptacle. The receptacle is pre-charged with a gas to cushion the impact of the surge and also includes means to dissipate energy of the liquid surge and to bring the liquid to a state of quiescence as quickly as possible. A return duct evacuates the reservoir to the pipeline when the surge subsides.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.