Importance

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Abstract

A system for lubricating a plug flow of high viscosity material in a pipeline is disclosed. The system includes first and second pipes through which the plug flow of high viscosity material is pumped. The first pipe has a flange which is positioned adjacent a flange of the second pipe. A plurality of bolts, attached to the flange of the first pipe and to the flange of the second pipe, connect the first pipe to the second pipe. A lubrication spool is positionable in a first location between the flange of the first pipe and the flange of the second pipe for lubricating the plug flow of high viscosity material. The lubrication spool is removable from the first position without completely disconnecting the first and second pipes. The lubrication spool includes a first spool section which is located immediately adjacent the flange of the first pipe while in the first position and a second spool section immediately adjacent the first spool section. The second spool section is also located immediately adjacent the flange of the second pipe while in the first position. An aperture in the first and second spool sections provides a passage for the plug flow of high viscosity material being pumped between the first and second pipes. An annular reservoir, formed between the first and second spool sections, distributes lubricant. An inlet supplies lubricant to the reservoir. A circumferential lubrication passage, formed between the first and second spool sections, applies a uniform ring of the lubricant to the plug flow of high viscosity material being pumped through the lubrication spool aperture. The circumferential lubrication passage provides a fluid path between the annular reservoir and the aperture.

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First Claim