Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus for inserting a flexible bag into the interior of a fluid transmission line to form a plug by filling the bag with a freezable liquid. The apparatus comprises a cylindrical frame member with a flange for mounting the apparatus on a saddle member attached to the transmission line. A first telescoping tubular member is mounted on the frame member and supports second and third telescoping tubular members and provides a cavity for storing the bag in a collapsed condition. The second tubular member is connected to the bag and is operable to eject the bag from the first tubular member into the transmission line interior. The third tubular member is operable to extend into the bag interior, includes a liquid conduit for filling the bag and includes conduits for circulating cooling or heating fluid within the interior of the third tubular member to form a heat exchanger for accelerating the freezing or thawing of the liquid within the bag. An embodiment adapted for high pressure transmission line applications includes a power screw actuator having a guide sleeve for storing the bag and for inserting the bag into the transmission line interior. Coaxial bag injection members and liquid conduit members are arranged one within the other for ejecting the bag from the guide sleeve to the transmission line interior and providing a flow path for liquid to fill the bag.

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First Claim