Corrosion Tester Patents (Class 422/53)
  • Patent number: 11891911
    Abstract: Provided is a corrosive environment monitoring device capable of monitoring the condition of a turbine for a long period of time without corrosion damage to a sensor caused by turbine steam. A corrosive environment monitoring device 10 includes: a steam extraction part 11 that extracts steam from inside of a casing 21 of a steam turbine 22 to outside thereof; a condensed water storage part 12 that stores therein condensed water produced by condensation of steam passing through the steam extraction part; and a corrosion factor sensor part 13 that detects properties of the condensed water. The condensed water storage part 12 includes a gap simulation part that simulates a gap inside the turbine and has a predetermined gap capable of storing the condensed water therein, and an annular channel formed on an outer periphery side of the gap simulation part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: FUJI ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yohsuke Abe, Sakae Izumi, Yoshihiro Sakai
  • Patent number: 11867071
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a turbine monitoring system includes a temperature measurer configured to sense a temperature of steam to be introduced to a steam turbine, and output a sensing result of the temperature. The system further includes an electrical output measurer configured to sense an electrical output of a generator driven by the steam turbine, and output a sensing result of the electrical output. The system further includes a computing module configured to compute an erosion quantity of a moving vane of the steam turbine with water drops, based on the sensing result of the temperature that is output from the temperature measurer and the sensing result of the electrical output that is output from the electrical output measurer. The system further includes an outputting module configured to output information that is based on the erosion quantity computed by the computing module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2023
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2024
    Assignee: Toshiba Energy Systems & Solutions Corporation
    Inventors: Tomohiko Tsukuda, Yasuteru Kawai, Yukio Kanehira, Tsuguhisa Tashima
  • Patent number: 11579074
    Abstract: An information handling system includes a corrosion controller that may monitor a corrosion sensor array, and determine a type of the corrosion based on a location of a corrosion sensor. The corrosion type may include humidity driven corrosion and non-humidity driven corrosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Assignee: Dell Products L.P.
    Inventors: Jon T. Fitch, Steven Embleton, Sandor Farkas, Danny King
  • Patent number: 11519894
    Abstract: A corrosion monitoring system includes one or more objects coupled to respective portions of a transformer tank. The one or more objects are configured to corrode before the respective portions of the transformer tank. At least one optical sensor is coupled to each of the objects. The at least one optical sensor has an optical output that changes in response to strain of the object. An analyzer is coupled to the at least one optical sensor. The analyzer is configured to perform one or more of detecting and predicting corrosion of the transformer tank based on the output of the at least one optical sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2022
    Assignees: Palo Alto Research Company Incorporated, Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Teepe, Todd Karin, Peter Kiesel, Ajay Raghavan, Jane Shin, Bradley Kittrell, Serena Lee
  • Patent number: 11448584
    Abstract: A quick release corrosion coupon holder system comprising a shaft and a clip configured to pivot between open and closed positions to securely hold an end of a corrosion coupon. Preferably, no nuts, bolts, or removable parts are required to install or remove a coupon from the holder. Preferably a spring is disposed between the shaft and clip with one or more attached legs or a separate pin configured to secure the clip to the shaft and act as a fulcrum. An optional inwardly extending projection may be inserted through an aperture on the coupon. An optional spacer creates a gap between the shaft and clip to accommodate the thickness of a coupon. Preferably a lip and shoulder pair on the clip and an opposing lip and shoulder pair on the shaft contact front and back surfaces of the coupon, limiting contact surface area between the holder and coupon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: NCH Corporation
    Inventor: James William Howard
  • Patent number: 11447877
    Abstract: Assemblies and methods for monitoring the cathodic protection of underground or submerged structures may include a coupon assembly including a conductive test coupon and a reference electrode for determining the voltage potential difference of the protected structure without substantially interrupting surrounding current sources. The reference electrode may be at least partially covered with an electrolytic material in electrical contact with the surrounding environment via a plug including a porous material. A method of installation of the assembly may allow a single technician to install the coupon assembly using a probe rod without extensive on-site excavation. The coupon assembly may be configured to seat securely with the probe rod for stability during installation, and release from the probe rob when the probe rod is separated from the coupon assembly and withdrawn from the ground, leaving the coupon assembly at a preselected depth or preselected distance from the protected structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: MARATHON PETROLEUM COMPANY LP
    Inventor: Ryan Grant Ell
  • Patent number: 11440008
    Abstract: Examples include microfluidic devices. Example microfluidic devices comprise a microfluidic channel, a capillary chamber, and a fluidic actuator. The microfluidic channel is fluidly connected to the capillary chamber. The capillary chamber is to restrict flow of fluid therethrough. The fluidic actuator is positioned proximate the capillary chamber. The fluidic actuator is to actuate to thereby initiate flow of fluid through the capillary chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Devin Alexander Mourey, Michael W Cumbie, Garrett E Clark
  • Patent number: 11397147
    Abstract: A test device and method for top-of-the-line corrosion (TLC) of a high-temperature high-pressure wet gas pipeline. The device mainly includes: a metal top cap, a metal reaction cylinder, a first thermometer, a second thermometer, a plastic transparent measuring cylinder, a condensed water collection tube, an atomic spectrometer, a third thermometer, a rubber seal cover, a condensate droplet, a threaded hole, a condensation chamber, a pipeline sample, a temperature measuring hole, and a 30-degree tilt angle. The device and method can effectively simulate TLC of a wet gas pipeline under a high-temperature high-pressure environment. The device and method can test the high-temperature high-pressure TLC of the wet gas pipeline under different temperature differences (between a surface temperature of the pipeline and a gas temperature) and various corrosion media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2022
    Assignee: SOUTHWEST PETROLEUM UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Kuanhai Deng, Yuanhua Lin, Yue Yuan, Guoliang Zhang, Zhiping Yin, Dezhi Zeng, Wanying Liu
  • Patent number: 11391665
    Abstract: A painting fiber probe having a measurement surface on which a coating film is formed with the same painting specification as that of a sample (painted steel sheet) is placed in a test tank together with the sample. A cycle consisting of three steps of saline water spraying, drying and wetting is repeated on the sample and the painting fiber probe. In the drying step of the cycle, absorbance at a specific wavelength of the coating film formed on the painting fiber probe is measured at a regular interval and drying is ended when the measured absorbance satisfies a predetermined condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: NIPPON TELEGRAPH AND TELEPHONE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi Miwa, Azusa Ishii
  • Patent number: 11221243
    Abstract: Online installation systems and methods are provided for online installations of ultrasonic steam measurement devices in steam pipes. In one embodiment, a tool is provided and includes a transducer assembly configured to be coupled to a distal end of an isolation valve installed on a pressurized steam pipe. An ultrasonic transducer can be movably disposed within the transducer assembly, and the ultrasonic transducer can extend through a proximal opening of the transducer assembly and through a distal opening of the transducer assembly. The tool can also include an insertion mechanism configured to be coupled to a distal end of the transducer assembly and having a cylindrical housing at least partially enclosing the ultrasonic transducer. The insertion mechanism can include a linear actuator assembly configured to linearly actuate the ultrasonic transducer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2022
    Assignee: GE Infrastructure Sensing, LLC
    Inventors: Jesse Aaron Caira, Lei Sui, James Edward Matson, Toan Huu Nguyen, Rachel Brielle Avioli
  • Patent number: 10995277
    Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods for control of an overhead crude section of a hydrocarbon refining process. In one aspect, the method comprises monitoring a plurality of operating conditions of an overhead crude section of a refinery; determining hydrogen chloride and amine conditions of the overhead crude section of the refinery at current operating conditions of the overhead crude section; determining a plurality of fields of action by simulating a variation of one or more of the plurality of conditions; determining a risk indicator of salting for each of the plurality of fields of action; and providing a recommended change in operation of the overhead crude section to one of the plurality of fields of action while adhering to one or more constraints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: BL TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Collin Wade Cross, Zhaoyang Wan
  • Patent number: 10895566
    Abstract: A corrosion monitoring system includes one or more objects coupled to respective portions of a transformer tank. The one or more objects are configured to corrode before the respective portions of the transformer tank. At least one optical sensor is coupled to each of the objects. The at least one optical sensor has an optical output that changes in response to strain of the object. An analyzer is coupled to the at least one optical sensor. The analyzer is configured to perform one or more of detecting and predicting corrosion of the transformer tank based on the output of the at least one optical sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2021
    Assignees: Palo Alto Research Center Incorporated, Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Teepe, Todd Karin, Peter Kiesel, Ajay Raghavan, Jane Shin, Bradley Kittrell, Serena Lee
  • Patent number: 10859196
    Abstract: A retractable fitting with a stopcock has a stopcock housing for connection to a pipe or process chamber. The housing has a connection opening into the pipe or process chamber. A shut-off body is rotatable about a pivot axis relative to the stopcock housing, and has a passage hole that merges in an open state of the stopcock into the connection opening of the stopcock housing, the connection opening being closed by the shut-off body in a closed state. A support element in the passage hole is introduced in the open state through the connection opening into the pipe or process chamber. A plurality of flushing lines are operable to conduct a flushing medium, the plurality of flushing lines being accessible from outside of the stopcock and being connected to and/or opening into the passage hole of the shut-off body at least in the closed state of the stopcock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: POSTBERG + CO. GMBH
    Inventor: Hans-Jürgen Postberg
  • Patent number: 10801932
    Abstract: In a deformation simulation of a member joined by spot welding, an effective width being a width in a direction intersecting a direction of a load centered on a spot welded portion (14) on a flange face (13a) where the spot welded portion (14) is provided of a member (10) and changing correspondingly to a change in the load is calculated every predetermined time interval, and fracture of the spot welded portion (14) is predicted using the calculated effective width. This configuration enables precise fracture prediction of a spot welded portion where spot welding is modeled, for example, in a case of performing collision deformation prediction of an automobile member on a computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: NIPPON STEEL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takahiro Aitoh, Toshiyuki Niwa, Yoshiyuki Kaseda, Nobuyuki Maniwa
  • Patent number: 10444192
    Abstract: An environment measuring device 1 has a measuring QCM sensor 10, a reference QCM sensor 20, a measurement oscillation circuit 15, a reference oscillation circuit 25, a frequency counter 31, a humidity sensor 51, a control unit 40, and a storage unit 41. The measuring QCM sensor 10 has an oscillator and an electrode formed by a corrosive metal on the surface of the oscillator, and the reference QCM sensor 20 has an oscillator and an electrode formed by a corrosion-resistant metal on the surface of the oscillator. The storage unit 41 stores the measurement count signal, the reference count signal, and the humidity signal which are associated with a measurement time. The control unit 40 determines an amount of increase in mass due to the corrosion of the electrode of the measuring QCM sensor by using the measurement count signal and the reference count signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventor: Ryozo Takasu
  • Patent number: 10302550
    Abstract: A coupon suitable for peeling tests, derived from a vane and including: (i) a portion of blade that comprises an intrados surface, an extrados surface and a leading edge and/or trailing edge and (ii) a vane reinforcement that covers and is glued to at least a part of the intrados surface, a part of the extrados surface and which extends beyond the leading and/or trailing edge. The reinforcement is split over the entire length of the leading edge and/or trailing edge such that the reinforcement is separated into two plates separate from one another and facing each other on either side of the slit beyond the leading and/or trailing edge. Furthermore, at least one of the plates furthermore comprises, beyond the leading and/or trailing edge, notches configured to provide a hold to this same plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Safran Aircraft Engines
    Inventors: Pascal Noël Brossier, Thibault Berranger, Emmanuel Chichery, Léa Gani, Alain Timon
  • Patent number: 9880087
    Abstract: A remaining service life evaluation method for evaluating a remaining service life of a metal pipe suffering from creep damage on a basis of a master curve that is prepared in advance that includes wrapping a steel strip around an outer peripheral face of the metal pipe under same conditions as those during an internal pressure creep test and evaluating a remaining service life of the metal pipe on a basis of a degree of deterioration of the steel strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignee: THE CHUGOKU ELECTRIC POWER CO., INC.
    Inventor: Hidetaka Nishida
  • Patent number: 9804077
    Abstract: Provided is a device for monitoring corrosive environment including at least one passage structure having an opening and configured to control intrusion of a corrosive substance present in an atmosphere; and a sensor unit having a metal film that is disposed inside the passage structure. The metal film inside the passage structure corrodes by the corrosive substance intruding from the opening to the passage structure. During the monitoring, an electric resistance value of the metal film varies depending on expansion of the corroded region of the metal film. Thus, the device for monitoring corrosive environment measures the electric resistance value of the metal film with suppressing fluctuation of the measured values. This allows a corrosion level of the environment installed with electric and electronic apparatuses to be evaluated for a long term and in an accurate manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Rintarou Minamitani, Noriyuki Kushida, Tetsuya Ideno
  • Patent number: 9804140
    Abstract: A smart sticker for determining the current state of raw meat for safe human consumption is provided. The smart sticker indicates the quality or decomposition of the meat by changing color. The smart sticker employs a cupric nitrate solution mixed with a polymeric silicon substrate that forms a complex with the valence electrons on the nitrogen atom of an amino acid residue. After this interaction occurs, the smart sticker changes color from, for example, light blue to purple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Inventors: Sindy Johanna Chaves Noguera, Juan Scott Chaves Noguera
  • Patent number: 9778241
    Abstract: Methods are provided for characterizing the stability of a distillate fraction using a quartz crystal microbalance apparatus, such as a distillate fraction derived at least in part from a pre-refined crude oil. A sample can be aged for an aging period in a quartz crystal microbalance apparatus, and a frequency value for the sample in the quartz crystal microbalance apparatus can be determined before and after the aging period to determine a frequency difference. This frequency difference can be correlated directly with the ability of a jet fuel fraction to satisfy a stability test standard, such as a jet fuel breakpoint stability. The methods can also include using a temperature profile during characterization that can reduce or minimize operator error during the characterization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2017
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company
    Inventors: Roger Grant Gaughan, Manuel S. Alvarez, David John Abdallah, Christopher J. Wolfe
  • Publication number: 20150119286
    Abstract: A high-throughput corrosion testing mechanism was developed for metals in a variety of environments in controlled, multiplexed microenvironments. Many parallel experiments can be conducted with microbial and environmental variables independently manipulated to identify the key determinants of corrosion progression. The synthetic assay design enables subsequent surface characterization of select samples within the array. In as little as one day, diverse corrosive environments can be compared quantitatively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Applicant: MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Matthew James Whitfield, Krystyn J. Van Viet
  • Publication number: 20150098863
    Abstract: A system electronically monitors the consumption of gas adsorbent media in a media bed. The system includes a controller and a monitoring rod having a plurality of sensors disposed on the monitoring rod. The sensors are in communication with the controller. Each sensor includes a corrodible portion having an exposed electrically conducting material susceptible to corrosion by a corrosive agent, a first lead in electrical contact with a first end of the corrodible portion, and a second lead in electrical contact with a second end of the corrodible portion. The corrodible portion, the first lead and the second lead together form a continuous communication path to the controller, and the monitoring rod is at least partially disposed in the media.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventor: Kevin Francis Jameson
  • Patent number: 8951802
    Abstract: A method of testing workpieces and an automated oscillating solution spray manifold assembly for a corrosion testing chamber is configured to introduce a fluid into a cavity of a test cabinet that receives workpieces. The manifold assembly includes a motor having an output shaft for driving a linkage assembly. An elongated spray bar is connected to the linkage assembly and the spray bar has a plurality of openings spaced therealong. The linkage assembly is configured to rotate the spray bar in a desired oscillatory movement such that fluid can be dispensed through the openings and into the test cabinet. A fan-like pattern sprays from one opening and substantially overlaps with spray from at least one adjacent opening. The method of testing may include one or more of the steps of controlling a speed of the motor, a temperature level of the cavity, a humidity level of the cavity, and a salinity content of the fluid within the cavity of the test cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: The Singleton Corporation
    Inventor: Eric Bridenbaker
  • Patent number: 8927289
    Abstract: Provided are an atmospheric corrosion test procedure and an apparatus used for the test. The procedure involves a salt spray step for supplying salt content containing chloride ions on the surfaces of test pieces placed in a thermo-humidistat chamber and a subsequent dry-wet cyclic step including a dry sub-step for drying the surface of the test pieces in the thermo-humidistat chamber at a low relative humidity and a subsequent wet sub-step at a higher relative humidity than that in the dry sub-step, which are cycled. The salt content is supplied by spraying the salt water in the salt spray step. An exhaust step for removing the salt mist sprayed inside thermo-humidistat chamber is further inserted between the salt deposition step and the dry sub-step. The quantity of the salt content deposited on the surfaces of the test pieces is controlled by adjusting the quantity of the sprayed salt water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazumi Fujii, Katsuhito Takahashi
  • Publication number: 20140295560
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device for predicting corrosion in a tubular element that receives hydrocarbons. The device includes a housing, a first sensor, and a location tracking device. The first sensor is partially within the housing and detects one of first physical, chemical and electrical signals of a fluid within the tubular element at a plurality of locations within the tubular element. The location tracking device is within the housing and operatively connected to the first sensor. The location tracing device determines an axial and circumferential position of the first sensor at each of the plurality of locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Publication date: October 2, 2014
    Inventor: Rotimi A. Ojifinni
  • Publication number: 20140212978
    Abstract: Example methods, systems, and computer readable media are provided for monitoring operating processes. An example method includes monitoring an equipment parameter associated with an asset in an operating process unit and monitoring a process parameter associated with the asset. The example method includes determining an asset health corresponding to the asset. The asset health is determined based on a potential state of corrosion associated with the asset by comparing a corrosivity index to a corrosion threshold. The corrosivity index is a function of at least one of current values or changes in the monitored equipment parameter or the monitored process parameter over time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Applicant: Fisher-Rosemount Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Hiserodt Sharpe, JR., Hallgeir Jenssen
  • Patent number: 8771593
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of controlling a real-time oxidation-reduction potential in a hot water system to inhibit corrosion in the hot water system. The method includes defining one or more operational protective zones in the hot water system. One or more of the operational protective zones includes an oxidation-reduction potential probe that is operable to measure a real-time oxidation-reduction potential in the hot water system at operating temperature and pressure. The probe transmits the measured real-time potential to the controller, which assesses and interprets the transmitted potential to determine whether it conforms to an oxidation-reduction potential setting. If the measured potential does not conform the oxidation-reduction potential setting, the controller is operable to feed or remove one or more active chemical species into or from the hot water system and further operable to change at least one system parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Nalco Company
    Inventors: Peter D. Hicks, David A. Grattan
  • Patent number: 8683861
    Abstract: A sensor senses a characteristic of an environment, e.g., humidity. The sensor has a substrate with strips of material that is sensitive to corrosion as a result of the characteristic. The strips are configured to respond differently to the characteristic. By means of repeatedly measuring the resistances of the strips, the environment can be monitored in terms of accumulated exposure to the characteristic. The strips are manufactured in a semiconductor technology so as to generate accurate sensors that behave predictably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: NXP, B.V.
    Inventors: Aurelie Humbert, Youri Victorovitch Ponomarev, Matthias Merz, Romano Hoofman
  • Publication number: 20140057356
    Abstract: The subject disclosure relates to matrix acidizing. More specifically, systems and methods are described for estimating a diffusion coefficient for an acid fluid used to stimulate a subterranean reservoir wherein a spent acid is formulated that includes one or more by-products of the reaction between the fluid and rock. A rock sample, such as in the form of a rotating disk is exposed to spent acid under elevated pressure and temperature conditions while the fluid is sampled and analyzed. A diffusion coefficient for the spend acid is estimated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: SCHLUMBERGER TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventors: XIANGDONG QIU, FRANK F. CHANG
  • Patent number: 8658095
    Abstract: A device for measuring oxidation-reduction potential at operating temperature and pressure in hot water systems is disclosed and claimed. The device includes a flow-through cell, an oxidation-reduction potential probe, a temperature detector, and an external pressure-balanced reference electrode assembly. Each component of the device works in conjunction with the other components and each has electrical connections that transmit signals to a controller. The controller calculates and determines adjustments to feedwater chemistry for the hot water system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Nalco Company
    Inventors: Peter D. Hicks, M. Alexandra Knoth
  • Patent number: 8658094
    Abstract: A device for measuring oxidation-reduction potential at operating temperature and pressure in hot water systems is disclosed and claimed. The device includes a flow-through cell, an oxidation-reduction potential probe, a temperature detector, and an external pressure-balanced reference electrode assembly. Each component of the device works in conjunction with the other components and each has electrical connections that transmit signals to a controller. The controller calculates and determines adjustments to feedwater chemistry for the hot water system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Nalco Company
    Inventors: Peter D. Hicks, M. Alexandra Knoth
  • Publication number: 20130280044
    Abstract: This disclosure describes, in one embodiment, a corrosion monitoring device to monitor fluid flowing to a turbo-machine. The device comprises an elongated body member in the form of a threaded rod. The elongated body member comprises test elements that have material properties responsive to the corrosive components. In one example, the test elements comprise cylindrical tubes that can slide onto the threaded rod. The assembly is positioned in flow streams and, more particularly, finds particular use in the flow stream of fluid found in an inlet system that couples with a turbine (e.g., a gas or steam turbine).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Abhijeet Madhukar Kulkarni, William Keith Albert Eyers, Richard Michael Ashley Mann, Mark David Richardson
  • Patent number: 8540936
    Abstract: An erosion sensor that can separately monitor erosion and corrosion of a substrate, such as a wind turbine blade or a turbine blade used in devices such as gas turbines, aircraft engines, microturbines, steam turbines, and the like is disclosed. The sensor can include a first element or “erosion part” that is made of a corrosion resistant material. The first element of the sensor has similar erosion properties to the substrate being monitored. The sensor can further include a second element or a “corrosion part” that is made of a material having similar erosion and corrosion properties to the substrate. The sensor can provide an erosion indicator based on the erosion of the first element and a corrosion indicator based on the erosion and corrosion of the second element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Rebecca Evelyn Hefner, Paul Stephen DiMascio
  • Publication number: 20130236975
    Abstract: A method of tracking the rate of corrosion of a metal conduit traversed by a corrosive fluid, in which is provided a device arranged so as to form, when said device is installed on a wall of the metal conduit, a chamber able to receive gaseous hydrogen issuing by permeation across said wall of said conduit, the method comprising: (i) a step of treatment to eliminate a metallic species from the chamber, (ii) a step of measuring a quantity of hydrogen received in the chamber, with a view to estimating the rate of corrosion of the metal conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: TOTAL RAFFINAGE MARKETING
    Inventors: Xavier Roumeau, Benoit Albinet, Christophe Pelet, Alain Houlier, Lionel Casajus-Gil, Guilhem Frachisse
  • Publication number: 20130224867
    Abstract: Corrosion Under Insulation (CUI) of an insulated iron or other corrosion prone object (1) is detected by taking a sample (8) of the pore fluid from the pores of a permeable insulation layer (2) that covers at least part of the object (1) and analyzing the composition of the sample (8) on the presence of any tracer fluid, such as phospines, mercaptans, alcohols, acids, ketones and/or aldehydes emitted or acetic acid and/or butoxyethanol absorbed by any corrosion of the corrosion prone object (1) by a tracer fluid detection sensor (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventors: Maarten Lorenz, Gerald Sprachmann
  • Patent number: 8521445
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus relate to measuring corrosion rate. Flowing corrosive fluid contacts a metal coupon or object and results in an effluent stream. The effluent stream contains metal from the object due to reaction of constituents in the fluid with the metal. Analysis of the effluent stream measures concentration of the metal therein. Since the concentration of the metal in the effluent stream is indicative of mass loss from the object, calculations provide the corrosion rate utilizing weight of the metal that is eluted, surface area of the object and exposure time of the object with the corrosive fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: ConocoPhillips Company
    Inventors: Ricky Eugene Snelling, Donald Ray Engelbert, Omar Jesus Yepez
  • Patent number: 8513020
    Abstract: A system for sulfide stress cracking testing comprises an enclosed testing chamber including a fluid bath comprising a liquid saturated with hydrogen sulfide gas. In addition, the system comprises a test fixture disposed in the testing chamber and at least partially submerged in the fluid bath. The test fixture includes a housing having an internal chamber in fluid communication with the fluid bath and a test assembly disposed in the internal chamber. The test assembly comprises a first upper support and a second upper support, a first lower support and a second lower support, and a first platen engaging each of the upper supports and adapted to transfer an applied vertical load to the upper supports. Further, the system comprises a test specimen mounted in the test assembly between the upper supports and the lower supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
    Inventors: Lucien Hehn, Kevin J. Wyble, Kenneth E. Casner, Jr., Kenneth E. Casner, Sr., Joseph Casner, George M. Waid
  • Publication number: 20130210154
    Abstract: A hand-device is described for penetrating a heat-insulating layer of a corrodible metal object and for examining a pipeline for corrosion, preferably for penetrating a heat-insulating layer of a corrodible metal pipeline, with a penetrating body that comprises a pointed section for displacing the insulating layer and a holding section for receiving a driving force, and a detecting device for generating a signal as a response to a stimulus caused by corrosion, wherein the detecting device is arranged proximally to the pointed section of the penetrating body. Corresponding methods as well as uses are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicants: Dow Deutschland Anlagengesellschaft MbH, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft Zur Förderung Der Angewandten Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Stefan Dieckhoff, Peter Plagemann, Philippe Vulliet, Manfred Nachbar-Zielinski
  • Patent number: 8501497
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods of constructing liquid bridges and methods of forming predetermined combinations of samples using liquid bridges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Stokes Bio Limited
    Inventors: Mark Davies, Tara Dalton
  • Publication number: 20130164852
    Abstract: Provided are an atmospheric corrosion test procedure and an apparatus used for the test. The procedure involves a salt spray step for supplying salt content containing chloride ions on the surfaces of test pieces placed in a thermo-humidistat chamber and a subsequent dry-wet cyclic step including a dry sub-step for drying the surface of the test pieces in the thermo-humidistat chamber at a low relative humidity and a subsequent wet sub-step at a higher relative humidity than that in the dry sub-step, which are cycled. The salt content is supplied by spraying the salt water in the salt spray step. An exhaust step for removing the salt mist sprayed inside thermo-humidistat chamber is further inserted between the salt deposition step and the dry sub-step. The quantity of the salt content deposited on the surfaces of the test pieces is controlled by adjusting the quantity of the sprayed salt water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: HITACHI, LTD.
    Inventor: Hitachi, Ltd.
  • Publication number: 20130149195
    Abstract: Corrosion sensor apparatus for detection of contamination affecting metal based components and devices. For example, an apparatus includes: a set of corrosion sensor elements, wherein a width of a first corrosion sensor element is different than a width of a second corrosion sensor element, wherein each corrosion sensor element is susceptible to corrosion caused by an operating environment of the corrosion sensor elements; and a set of reference elements wherein a width of a first reference sensor element is substantially equal to the width of the first corrosion sensor element and a width of a second reference sensor element is substantially equal to the width of the second corrosion sensor element, wherein each reference sensor element is not substantially susceptible to corrosion caused by the operating environment of the corrosion sensor elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: International Business Machines Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130109099
    Abstract: A method of testing workpieces and an automated oscillating solution spray manifold assembly for a corrosion testing chamber is configured to introduce a fluid into a cavity of a test cabinet that receives workpieces. The manifold assembly includes a motor having an output shaft for driving a linkage assembly. An elongated spray bar is connected to the linkage assembly and the spray bar has a plurality of openings spaced therealong. The linkage assembly is configured to rotate the spray bar in a desired oscillatory movement such that fluid can be dispensed through the openings and into the test cabinet. A fan-like pattern sprays from one opening and substantially overlaps with spray from at least one adjacent opening. The method of testing may include one or more of the steps of controlling a speed of the motor, a temperature level of the cavity, a humidity level of the cavity, and a salinity content of the fluid within the cavity of the test cabinet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Applicant: THE SINGLETON CORPORATION
    Inventor: The Singleton Corporation
  • Patent number: 8418537
    Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of corrosive material in drywall utilizing a testing device having a metal pin for insertion in the drywall, where the pin forms a visible layer when it reacts with corrosive materials in the drywall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: Environ International Corp.
    Inventor: Thomas D. Gauthier
  • Publication number: 20130089463
    Abstract: An erosion sensor that can separately monitor erosion and corrosion of a substrate, such as a wind turbine blade or a turbine blade used in devices such as gas turbines, aircraft engines, microturbines, steam turbines, and the like is disclosed. The sensor can include a first element or “erosion part” that is made of a corrosion resistant material. The first element of the sensor has similar erosion properties to the substrate being monitored. The sensor can further include a second element or a “corrosion part” that is made of a material having similar erosion and corrosion properties to the substrate. The sensor can provide an erosion indicator based on the erosion of the first element and a corrosion indicator based on the erosion and corrosion of the second element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Rebecca Evelyn Hefner, Paul Stephen DiMascio
  • Publication number: 20130087328
    Abstract: A disclosed downhole optical sensor system includes at least one optical sensor positioned in a borehole and coupled to an interface via a fiber optic cable. Each of the optical sensors includes a waveguide for conducting light, and a reagent region positioned between the waveguide and a fluid in the borehole to absorb a portion of the light from the waveguide, the portion being dependent upon a concentration of a chemical species in the fluid. A described method for operating a well includes deploying one or more downhole optical sensors in a fluid flow path in the well, probing the one or more downhole optical sensors from a surface interface to detect concentrations of one or more chemical species, and deriving a rate of scale buildup or corrosion based at least in part on the detected concentrations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John L. Maida, JR., Etienne M. Samsom, Rory D. Daussin, Thomas D. Welton
  • Patent number: 8409505
    Abstract: A sensor-dispensing instrument adapted to handle a sensor pack contains sensors and performs a test using one of the sensors. The instrument includes an outer housing and a mechanical mechanism for rotating the sensor pack and ejecting one of the sensors from the sensor pack and through a sensor slot on the housing. The instrument also includes a sensor actuator to engage with a sensor disposed in the sensor slot, and a sensor release that is movable to disengage the sensor actuator from the sensor disposed in the sensor slot and permit the discharge of the sensor. The sensor release activates a sensor release mechanism that has a sensor release aid arm, a mounting block, and a pivot pin. The sensor release aid arm contacts the sensor disposed in the sensor slot to assist removal of the sensor from the sensor slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Bayer HealthCare LLC
    Inventors: Bruce A. Flora, John P. Creaven, Russell J. Micinski
  • Patent number: 8382968
    Abstract: A conductor/insulator/porous film device is provided which is used in electrochemiluminescence methods and instrumentation based on the chemical excitation of label molecules with subsequent measurement of the luminescence in order to quantitate analyte concentrations especially in bioaffinity assays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Labmaster Ltd.
    Inventors: Timo Väinö Kalevi Ala-Kleme, Jarkko Uolevi Eskola, Timo Kalevi Korpela, Sakari Mikael Kulmala, Piia Kaarina Mäkinen
  • Patent number: 8261601
    Abstract: The described invention relates to a method for determining corrosion in wet gas pipelines comprising: a) using a portion of the liquid phase from a wet gas pipeline; b) placing said portion in a high pressure, high temperature autoclave to prepare a saturated vapor phase; c) transferring the saturated vapor to a corrosion test unit, said unit having a specimen holder section having external, temperature adjustable means, and specimens being arranged in one or more positions within the specimen holder; d) chilling said specimen holder section so as to cause condensation onto said corrosion testing specimens; and, e) calculating a value selected from the group consisting of corrosions rate, pitting of the specimen, weight loss of the specimen, and any combination thereof. The invention process can be practiced in a separate laboratory apparatus designed to accomplish the above method, or in a similar online apparatus set up in a semi-batch mode or continuous mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company
    Inventors: Joseph W. Stolle, Dylan V. Pugh, David A. Norman, Wei Sun
  • Patent number: 8241575
    Abstract: A molecularly imprinted polymer sensor device for detecting the presence of a taggant molecular structure in a fluid is disclosed. The molecularly imprinted polymer sensor device comprises a molecularly imprinted crosslinked polymer having a crosslinked core and a plurality of polymer arms attached to the core, wherein the core has molecular sized cavities adapted to selectively receive and bind displacement molecules having the taggant molecular structure and a colorimetric indicator, said displacement molecule being selectively removed from the molecularly imprinted crosslinked polymer and replaced with the taggant molecular structure upon exposure to the fluid containing the taggant molecular structure therein, thereby indicating the presence of the taggant molecular structure in the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: George M. Murray, Andrew F. Mason, Edward W. Ott, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8197750
    Abstract: The invention relates to devices and methods for the identification of test tubes in a test tube rack using RFID technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Roche Molecular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Heinz Trueeb, Armin Birrer, Thomas Brauner