Compression-type underwater connector
In recent years, compression-type pipeline underwater connection technology has developed very rapidly, and related products have gradually matured. Compression-type underwater connectors are mainly composed of connectors and connection tools, which can be used for rapid connection of oil and gas pipelines in shallow sea areas and rapid repair of damaged pipelines. This type of connector adopts compression connection, and the connector is pressurized and tightened at the pipeline leakage point or pipeline junction by using the connection tool. Due to the particularity of the connector joint material, its plastic deformation can seal the gap between the pipeline and the connector, thereby completing the pipeline installation or physical repair of the damaged pipeline. This connection method is simple, and the oil and gas pipeline can be quickly and effectively connected without special treatment of the pipeline, and emergency treatment can be carried out on the damaged position of the pipeline.
Claw type underwater connector
According to the different locking methods of the connector, the claw-type underwater connector can be divided into integral and non-integral types.
1) The integral claw connector is also called the hydraulic claw connector, which forms a complete system with the locking device and the connector. The integral claw connector can realize the self-locking function, and the hydraulic system provides the self-locking force required for sealing, thereby limiting the displacement of the claw and the drive ring and preventing the failure of the pipeline connection. This type of connector has a simple structure and a short installation time, but because the entire device is integrated, it is left on the seabed after the pipeline connection is completed, resulting in relatively high construction and maintenance costs.
2) Non-integrated claw connectors are also called mechanical claw connectors and require independent locking tools. The locking and sealing of this type of connector relies entirely on the mechanical characteristics of its own structure, and its connection is achieved by supporting tools. After the locking is completed, the tool can be recycled. Compared with the integral claw connector, the non-integrated claw connector has a more complex structure and a slightly longer installation time, but the investment cost and maintenance cost are relatively low, and it has become the main development trend of deep-sea pipeline connectors.
