GB2549965B - Hybrid nozzle - Google Patents

Description

HYBRID NOZZLE

The present invention relates to a nozzle apparatus particularly but not exclusively for use in firefighting or fire suppression in an offshore / maritime environment, and which is in use connected to a pipeline

Fluid flow systems, such as sprinkler systems are widely used in onshore and offshore installations, such as oil and gas platforms and production facilities, for example refineries and/or nuclear plants, to contain or suppress fire or heat. During operation of the sprinkler system, it is likely that scale, debris and other pollutants will build up and become a problem. Scale is typically formed by the precipitation of mineral compounds from water, such as calcium carbonate or calcium sulphate, due to pressure and/or temperature changes in the pipeline. Corrosion in pipelines can build up along the inner wall of pipe and also results in debris entering the system. Marine growth can also cause blockage problems. Salts can also crystallise and cause blockage problems. The by-products of salt water as a delivery fluid are also a problem and it is thought that this has contributed to firefighting /deluge systems failing offshore, resulting in a loss of life, loss of assets and even oil spills.

It is a regular occurrence for nozzles of sprinkler systems to block due to this build-up, and this can cause the whole system to become redundant. If such nozzles become blocked, the ability of the sprinkler system to contain or suppress a fire could be severely impeded. This could hinder the safe escape of platform or facility personnel. W02014/009713 describes a nozzle apparatus where debris is drawn therein and directed towards a container by a filter. US 5,839,667 discloses a pendent-type diffuser. WO 2015/150836 discloses a filter which can mitigate blockages in a downstream nozzle.

Whilst generally satisfactory, the inventor of the present invention has developed an improved nozzle apparatus.

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a nozzle apparatus comprising a nozzle inlet, the nozzle inlet comprising: a tube, the tube having a side wall; a plurality of inlets circumferentially spaced around a portion of the side wall of the tube; wherein the plurality of inlets are elongate, and each of the plurality of inlets comprise at least one hole and at least one adjoining slot, the at least one hole having a diameter greater than a width of the at least one slot.

The tube may be cylindrical in shape. Alternatively, the tube may be polygonalshaped. An advantage of having a polygonal-shaped tube is that it is easier to machine cut the plurality of inlets on a flat surface compared to a rounded surface.

The tube may extend from a first end to a second end. The plurality of inlets may extend generally parallel (+/- 10 degrees) to the (normally longitudinal) direction from the first end to the second end of the tube.

The first end of the tube may be dome shaped. The first end of the tube may be frusto-conical shaped. The first end of the tube may be referred to as having a tapered portion. As such, debris may be in use directed towards an outside of the tube, where it is typically less likely to be drawn into the nozzle and potentially block it downstream.

The second end of the tube may comprise a mounting means for mounting the nozzle apparatus to a pipeline. This is often a threaded portion, but may be a snap-fit connection or other suitable mounting/connection means. The nozzle inlet may extend into the pipeline in use such that the first end of the tube and at least a portion of the plurality of inlets extend beyond a fitting, such as a reducing bush.

The plurality of inlets may comprise at least two, at least four, or at least eight inlets. The number of inlets typically depends on the dimensions, such as the diameter of the nozzle inlet.

Preferably there is no filter downstream of the inlets and before the nozzle outlet. Therefore, the fluid has a clear flow path through the nozzle apparatus downstream of the inlets.

Elongate is defined as having a first dimension larger than a second dimension, with the third dimension being defined as the depth. For example the first dimension may be more than 3, or more than 8, times the length of the second dimension. The first dimension may be the length of each inlet. The second dimension may be the width of each inlet. Preferably, the length of each inlet is greater than the width of each inlet.

Each inlet of the plurality of inlets may comprise a plurality of holes. Each inlet of the plurality of inlets may comprise a plurality of slots. Preferably each inlet of the plurality of inlets comprise a series of alternate and adjoining holes and slots, the holes having a diameter greater than a width of the slots.

The at least one hole (preferably each hole) on one (preferably each) of the plurality of inlets is typically offset from the at least one hole (preferably each hole) on an adjacent inlet. Likewise, the at least one slot (preferably each slot) on one (preferably each) of the plurality of inlets is typically offset from the at least one slot on an adjacent inlet.

The at least one, or each, inlet may comprise at least three holes, optionally at least five holes. It/they may comprise at most eleven holes, optionally at most seven holes. The number of holes may increase with an increase in nozzle size.

The at least one, or each, inlet may comprise at least three slots, optionally at least five slots. It/they may comprise at most eleven slots, optionally at most seven slots. The number of slots may increase with an increase in nozzle size.

The at least one hole may be circular. The at least one hole may be any other suitable shape, for example oval, square or rectangular. The at least one hole may be one or more of circular, oval, square and rectangular.

The at least one slot normally has a width of from 1 mm to 3 mm, or from 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm. The at least one slot normally has a length of from 1 mm to 25 mm, optionally from 2 mm to 15 mm, optionally from 4 mm to 8 mm. Thus the length of the slots is typically larger than their width. The length of the at least one slot may increase with an increase in nozzle size.

When there is a plurality of slots, each slot may have the same width. Alternatively, when there is a plurality of slots, each slot may have a different width. The at least one hole normally has a width or diameter of from 1 mm to 3 mm, or from 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, such that the width or diameter of the at least one hole is larger than the width of the at least one slot. When there is a plurality of holes, each hole may have the same width or diameter. Alternatively, when there is a plurality of holes each hole may have a different width or diameter.

The length of each slot is typically from 1 to 5 times greater than the width or diameter of each hole. Optionally, the length of each slot is from 1.5 to 3 times greater than the width or diameter of each hole.

An advantage of having a combination of slots and holes may be that the plurality of inlets are less susceptible to blockages compared to having only slots or having only holes. This may help to mitigate the risk of blockages, thus helping to maintain a clear flow path through the nozzle apparatus.

The spacing between each of the plurality of inlets, as measured from the edge of one hole to the adjacent edge of an adjacent slot (or hole), is normally between 50% and 150% larger than the hole with the greatest width or diameter. For example the at least one slot may have a width of 1 mm, the at least one hole may have a width or diameter of 1.5 mm, and each of the plurality of inlets may be spaced apart by a distance of from 2 mm to 3 mm.

The plurality of inlets may extend longitudinally part of the way along the side wall of the tube. The length of the plurality of inlets can vary depending on the application of the nozzle apparatus e.g. the size of a pipeline to which it may be attached but is normally at least 1.5 cm, at least 2 cm, or normally for larger pipes, more than 3 cm. The plurality of inlets may extend up to 10 cm or up to 8 cm. Alternatively, the plurality of inlets may extend for more than 4 cm and optionally up to 6 cm. The plurality of inlets may be of sufficient length such that in use at least a portion of the plurality of inlets are located outside a fitting, such as a reducing bush.

The plurality of inlets may extend for up to 99%, up to 75%, up to 50%, or up to 33% of the length of the tube between the first end and the second end, typically between the first end and a first, upper, edge of the threaded portion. Accordingly, a generally solid portion without the plurality of inlets may extend between the plurality of inlets and the second end, typically between the first end and a first, upper, edge of the threaded portion, for more than 10% of the tube’s length, optionally more than 20%.

The generally solid portion of the tube may comprise at least one port, optionally a plurality of ports. The plurality of ports may be circumferentially spaced around the generally solid portion of the tube. The plurality of ports may be equidistantly spaced around the generally solid portion of the tube.

The first end of the tube may comprise an end inlet, typically at the apex of the tapered portion. The end inlet may comprise at least one, normally two, slots. The end inlet slots may be provided in a cross-arrangement, and they may cross each other, optionally in the centre. Circular inlets may adjoin the distal end of each end inlet slot. A circular aperture may also be provided in the centre of the apex, such as where the inlet slots cross.

At least a portion of the slots extend through the tapered portion of the first end of the tube, such that fluid may travel from the pipeline in use into the tube through the slots. However, a portion of the slots, especially towards their radially outward extent, may not extend through the tapered portion at the first end of the tube.

The threaded portion may comprise an upper threaded portion, that is closer to the first end, and a lower threaded portion. The upper threaded portion may be provided on the outer surface of the tube. The lower threaded portion may be provided on the outer surface of the tube. Alternatively, the lower threaded portion may be provided on an inner surface of the tube. The upper and lower threaded portions may be continuous. The upper and lower threaded portions may be separated, that is discontinuous, and may optionally be separated by a nut. A longitudinal bore of the tube normally includes at least two sections of differing internal cross-sectional area, that is a first section with a first internal cross-sectional area and a second section with a second different internal cross-sectional area. The longitudinal bore of the tube normally includes at least two sections of differing internal diameter, that is a first section with a first internal diameter and a second portion with a different second internal diameter.

Preferably the internal diameter, or internal cross-sectional area, of the second section is greater than the internal diameter, or internal cross-sectional area, of the first section. The internal diameter of the first section may be from 12 mm to 22 mm. The internal cross-sectional area of the first section may be from 100 mm2 to 400mm2, optionally from 150 mm2 to 250 mm2. The internal diameter of the second section may be from 17 mm to 27 mm. The internal cross-sectional area of the second section may be from 200 mm2 to 600 mm2 optionally from 300 mm2 to 500 mm2. These dimension ranges for certain embodiments are optimised for 0.5” (-12.7 mm) NBT thread nozzles (as measured across an external diameter of the upper threaded portion connected to a 1” (-25.4 mm) to 3” (-76.2 mm) diameter delivery line. The dimension ranges may increase proportionally with an increase in nozzle size.

The internal diameter and/or cross sectional area of the upper threaded portion may be the same as the first internal diameter/cross sectional area of the longitudinal bore. The internal diameter and/or cross sectional area of the lower threaded portion may be the same as the second internal diameter/cross sectional area of the longitudinal bore.

Therefore, an internal diameter, or internal cross-sectional area, of the upper threaded portion may be different, to an internal diameter, or internal cross-sectional area, of the lower threaded portion. For such embodiments therefore, the upper threaded portion may be provided on an outside of the first section and the lower threaded portion may be provided on the outside of the second section.

The tube normally includes at least two sections of differing outer, or external, cross-sectional area, that is a first section with a first external cross-sectional area and a second section with a second external cross-sectional area. The tube normally includes at least two sections of differing outer, or external, diameter, that is a first section with a first external diameter and a second portion with a second external diameter.

An external diameter, or external cross-sectional area, of the upper threaded portion may be the same, or it may be different, to an external diameter, or external cross-sectional area, of the lower threaded portion. Preferably the external diameter, or external cross-sectional area, of the lower threaded portion is greater than the external diameter, or external cross-sectional area, of the upper threaded portion. The external diameter of the upper threaded portion may be from 16 mm to 26 mm. The external cross-sectional area of the upper threaded portion may be from 200 mm2 to 550 mm2, optionally from 300 mm2 to 450 mm2. The external diameter of the upper threaded portion may be from 24 mm to 59 mm, optionally from 24 mm to 49 mm. The external cross-sectional area of the lower threaded portion may be from 400 mm2 to 3000 mm2, from 700 mm2 to 2000 mm2, optionally from 1000 mm2 to 1500 mm2.

The internal and/or external diameter and/or the internal and/or external cross-sectional area of the upper and/or lower threaded portions is typically dependent on the size of the pipeline to which the nozzle apparatus may be attached in use. Larger pipelines normally require a larger nozzle apparatus with a larger internal and/or external diameter and/or the internal and/or external cross-sectional area of the upper and/or lower threaded portions. As before, the dimension ranges above are optimised for 0.5” (~12.7 mm) NBT thread nozzles (as measured across the external diameter of the upper threaded portion) connected to a 1” (~25.4 mm) to 3” (-76.2 mm) diameter delivery line. The dimension ranges may increase proportionally with an increase in nozzle size.

The external diameter of the upper threaded portion may be the same as the first external diameter of the tube. The external diameter of the lower threaded portion may be the same as the second external diameter of the tube. The external cross-sectional area of the upper threaded portion may be the same as the first external cross-sectional of the tube. The external cross-sectional area of the lower threaded portion may be the same as the second external cross-sectional of the tube.

At least a portion of the nozzle apparatus, such as the nozzle inlet, may comprise a metal, or metals, which is/are resistant to galvanic corrosion and/or resistant to corrosion in marine environments. The nozzle inlet may be made from a basic metal, such as a brass alloy.

The nozzle apparatus may also comprise an outer body. The nozzle inlet may be attachable, such as threadably attachable, to the outer body. In use a flow path is defined from the nozzle inlet to the outer body.

The outer body typically comprises an outlet from the nozzle apparatus, specifically from the bore of the longitudinal bore of the tube and outer body. The outlet from the nozzle apparatus has an outlet diameter and an outlet cross-sectional area. The diameter of the outlet may be from 7 mm to 27 mm. The cross-sectional area of the outlet may be from 35 mm2 to 600 mm2, optionally from 150 mm2 to 400 mm2.

The outlet from the nozzle apparatus may be tapered in shape such that the cross-sectional area of the outlet is less than the first internal cross-sectional area and the second internal cross-sectional area of the longitudinal bore of the tube.

The nozzle apparatus may further comprise an internal support. The internal support is typically receivable in an internal chamber of the outer body. The chamber of the outer body may comprise a shoulder, or lip, which may assist with holding and/or supporting the internal support within the outer body in use. The internal diameter of the chamber may be from 26 mm to 52 mm. The internal cross-sectional area of the chamber may be from 500 mm2 to 2200 mm2, optionally from 800 mm2 to 1500 mm2.

The internal support may provide at least two separate flow paths between the nozzle inlet and the outlet from the nozzle apparatus. An advantage of having at least two separate flow paths may be that if one flow path blocks, the other flow path(s) will still allow flow through, thus ensuring that there is always fluid communication between the nozzle inlet and the nozzle outlet.

The internal cross-sectional area of the chamber is typically greater than the internal cross-sectional areas of the lower and the upper threaded portions and the cross-sectional area of the outlet from the nozzle apparatus. The outlet from the nozzle apparatus may be tapered, or conical, in shape. An advantage of having a chamber with an internal cross-sectional area greater than the outlet cross-sectional area may be that this helps to control the flow rate through the nozzle apparatus, thus helping to manipulate the pressure and velocity of the fluid exiting the nozzle outlet. The nozzle apparatus may be a low to medium velocity nozzle.

The outer body may be interchangeable. In use the outer body may be threadably detached from the nozzle inlet and a different outer body may be threadably attached. Different outer bodies may have different cross-sectional areas, such as different outlet cross-sectional areas and/or different internal cross-sectional areas of the chamber. An advantage of having an interchangeable outer body may be that it can allow the flow rate through the nozzle apparatus to be varied, thus tailoring the nozzle apparatus to the dangers present.

The nozzle apparatus may further comprise a deflector, which may be referred to as a nozzle dispersion shaft. The deflector may comprise a dispersion plate and a dispersion stem. The dispersion stem may be attachable to a portion of the nozzle apparatus, such as the internal support. The dispersion stem may be threadably attachable to a portion of the nozzle apparatus, such as the internal support. The dispersion stem typically extends from the internal support, and through and beyond the outlet. The nature (e.g. size, orientation, shape) of the deflector can vary depending on the specific performance sought from the nozzle apparatus.

The nozzle outlet may have a doughnut, or ring, shape optionally defined by the dispersion stem extending through the outlet. It may be beneficial that the outlet is ring shaped because this may mitigate the risk of the nozzle outlet blocking in use since a single piece of debris is far less likely to block a ring-shaped outlet compared to a single hole.

The dispersion stem may include a splitter portion, which may be in the shape of a disc, or inverted cone with a pointed apex. The dispersion stem may have a diameter of from 24 mm to 48 mm.

The dispersion stem normally has a diameter which is smaller than the diameter of the nozzle outlet, for example if the nozzle outlet has a diameter of 15 mm, the dispersion stem has a diameter of less than 15 mm. The diameter of the dispersion stem may be varied by interchanging the deflector in use to vary the K-factor of the nozzle apparatus.

The dispersion stem is typically co-axial with the tube. There may be only a single connection, preferably a co-axial connection, between the dispersion plate and the rest of the nozzle apparatus, such as the internal support or the outer body.

The dispersion plate may comprise vanes or tines extending radially for dispersing fluid flow. The tines may be separated by gaps. Each gap may be from 1 mm to 2mm wide, typically from 1.1 mm to 1.5 mm wide.

Alternatively the dispersion plate may comprise a solid disc for dispersing fluid flow. The dispersion plate may be circular in shape. The dispersion plate typically comprises a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface may be at an angle to the dispersion stem. The top surface may be greater than 90 degrees, greater than 120 degrees, or optionally greater than 135 degrees relative to the dispersion stem. The top surface may be at an angle of from 90 degrees to 170 degrees relative to the dispersion stem. The bottom surface may have the same angle as the top surface, that is the bottom surface may be greater than 90 degrees, greater than 120 degrees, or optionally greater than 135 degrees relative to the dispersion stem. The bottom surface may be at an angle of from 90 degrees to 170 degrees relative to the dispersion stem. Alternatively, the bottom surface may be at a different angle to the top surface, for example the top surface may be at an angle of 135 degrees relative to the dispersion stem whereas the bottom surface is at an angle of 90 degrees to the dispersion stem.

It is an advantage of certain embodiments of the present invention that providing a splitter portion within the nozzle apparatus can help to break apart any debris that enters the nozzle apparatus via the nozzle inlet, thus allowing the debris to exit through the nozzle outlet without blocking it.

Conventionally deflectors are attached to the nozzle apparatus by arms outwith the apparatus which connect the dispersion plate to a point on the outer body. The spray pattern created by conventional deflectors is broken or interrupted by these arms. An advantage of the present invention may be that the internal support attaches the deflector to the nozzle apparatus, thus negating the need for external arms. This may allow a full uninterrupted 360 degree spray pattern, which is more efficient at supressing or containing danger, such as fire or heat.

The deflector may be releaseably attached and so interchangeable. In use the deflector may be threadably detached from a portion of the nozzle apparatus, such as the internal support, and a different deflector may be threadably attached. Different deflectors may have different length dispersion stems, or different dispersion plate configurations, such as with or without tines or varying angles of the top and bottom surfaces. Different dispersion stem lengths will typically affect the distance the deflector extends beyond the outlet. Different dispersion stem lengths may provide different types of spray from the nozzle apparatus. Different dispersion plate angles, particularly different top surface angles, can produce different spray patterns. Typically smaller top surface angles can produce spray with a larger horizontal component, which may be beneficial for tackling dangers spanning a larger area. Typically larger angles can produce spray with a larger vertical component, which may be beneficial for tackling dangers covering a smaller, more compact, area.

It is an advantage of certain embodiments of the present invention that the deflector is interchangeable, and that different types of spray patterns can be produced, as this may allow the nozzle apparatus to be adaptable to different types of dangers, such as different types of fires.

It may be beneficial to keep the stem length as short as possible whilst still maintaining a suitable spray pattern for tackling the dangers present. It is an advantage of certain embodiments of the present invention that the outer body may be interchangeable because swapping the outer body for one with a chamber with a larger internal cross-sectional area can help to reduce the fluid flow pressure and thus allow the deflector to have a shorter stem length. Furthermore, shorter stem lengths can help to mitigate the risk of the stems being damaged in use due to collision.

At least a portion of the nozzle apparatus may comprise the same material as the pipeline to which the nozzle apparatus is attached to in use. The nozzle apparatus may further comprise one or more, typically two sacrificial anodes. The nozzle apparatus may comprise a first sacrificial anode and a second sacrificial anode. The sacrificial anodes are normally made from a material which corrodes more readily compared to other parts of the nozzle apparatus, such as the tube and/or deflector.

The one or more sacrificial anode may be made from one or more of magnesium, aluminium, zinc, aluminium indium alloy, zinc, aluminium sterndrive, mild steel, bronze (especially zinc, aluminium, magnesium and/or alloys thereof) and any other material which primarily inhibits the corrosion of the nozzle apparatus, or at least parts thereof, such as the tube and/or deflector. The one or more sacrificial anode may be made of a noble metal, which is preferably less noble than the material making up at least a portion of the nozzle apparatus. The less noble the one or more sacrificial anode compared to the remainder of the nozzle apparatus, the more negative the potential between the one or more sacrificial anode and the remainder of the nozzle apparatus, and the more active the one or more sacrificial anode will be, that is the more negative the potential, the more likely the one or more sacrificial anode is to corrode.

In use, the potential between the one or more sacrificial anode and the remainder of the nozzle apparatus may be reduced by a minimum of 250 mV to help to protect the remainder of the nozzle apparatus from corrosion.

The first and second sacrificial anode may comprise the same material. The first and second sacrificial anode may comprise different material.

The first and the second sacrificial anodes may be screw shaped, that is they may each comprise a head and a threaded stem.

The first sacrificial anode may be receivable in the circular aperture in the centre of the apex of the tube. The second sacrificial anode may be receivable in the dispersion plate. The circular aperture in the centre of the first end of the tube may comprise a threaded portion. The threaded stem of the first sacrificial anode may be receivable in the threaded portion of the circular aperture. The dispersion plate of the deflector may also comprise an aperture having a threaded portion. The threaded stem of the second sacrificial anode may be receivable in the threaded portion of the dispersion plate.

Preferably the bottom surface of the dispersion plate is at an angle of 80 -100 degrees to the dispersion stem. An advantage to having the bottom surface at 80 -100 degrees to the dispersion stem may be that it is easier to attach the second sacrificial anode to the dispersion plate in use.

The head of the first and/or second sacrificial anode may be flat. The head of the first and/or second sacrificial anode may be dome shaped.

An advantage of the nozzle apparatus comprising sacrificial anodes may be that they can help to counteract the effects of the surrounding environment, thus protecting the nozzle apparatus from corrosion, salt crystallisation, marine growth, lime scale and other antibody build-up. This may help to prolong the life of the nozzle apparatus and reduce the frequency of maintenance required. Moreover, the present invention does not comprise a container for collecting any debris and other contaminants, which further reduces the frequency of maintenance required. By protecting the nozzle apparatus from corrosion and antibody build-up this may help to prevent blockages and maintain a clear communication path between the plurality of inlets and the outlet. Furthermore, by mitigating the risk of blockages this may help to reduce the risk of the complete failure of the nozzle apparatus.

The at least one sacrificial anode may be threadably attachable to a portion of the nozzle apparatus. The threaded stem of the at least one sacrificial anode may allow the at least one sacrificial anode to be threadably attached to the nozzle apparatus in use. The threaded stem of the at least one sacrificial anode may also allow the at least one sacrificial anode to be threadably detached from the nozzle apparatus in use and replaced with another sacrificial anode. Thus the at least one sacrificial anode is interchangeable.

An advantage of having at least one interchangeable sacrificial anode may be that once the at least one sacrificial anode has substantially corroded it may be replaced with a new sacrificial anode, thus prolonging the protection of the nozzle apparatus from corrosion and antibody build-up. A further advantage of the present invention may be that even if only one sacrificial anode is provided, when such sacrificial anode has corroded the nozzle apparatus will still function as required due to the plurality of inlets and the splitter portion helping to mitigate the risk of the nozzle apparatus blocking. Therefore, the nozzle apparatus will continue to function as required with or without the presence of anodes.

In accordance with a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a pipeline apparatus comprising a pipeline and the nozzle apparatus as described herein.

The nozzle apparatus may extend into the pipeline. In use, the nozzle inlet may act as a filter to reduce the volume of debris entering the nozzle apparatus. This can help to mitigate the risk of blockages, or at least reduce the number of blockages, experienced downstream, such as within the nozzle apparatus itself. Such filtering ensures maximum flow through the nozzle apparatus with a minimum of debris passing from the nozzle inlet to the nozzle outlet.

The nozzle apparatus may be attachable to the pipeline via a reducing bush. A reducing bush may be used to size the nozzle apparatus into a suitable socket in the pipeline. For example, a 0.5” (-1.27 cm) nozzle may be attached to a 1.5” (-3.81 cm) pipeline via a reducing bush. Alternatively, a branch connection fitting such as a weldolet (RTM) fitting may be used.

Preferably the length of the tube of the nozzle inlet extends beyond any reducing bush in use. This is especially useful for any nozzle apparatus installed at elbow and/or T-joint fittings. Debris may accumulate in use between the tube of the nozzle inlet and a portion of the joint fitting. It may therefore be beneficial to extend the nozzle inlet beyond the reducing bush such that the first end of the tube and at least a portion of the plurality of inlets are located in a fluid path through the pipeline, thus mitigating the risk that the nozzle inlet, particularly the plurality of inlets, becoming blocked by debris in use.

Various embodiments of the present invention may allow fluid to flow into the nozzle inlet both above the reducing bush via the plurality of inlets, and from within, or below, the reducing bush via the plurality of ports. In some embodiments, the plurality of inlets may extend further down the tube and overlap with the reducing bush, thus fluid may flow into the nozzle inlet from within the reducing bush via the plurality of inlets as well as the plurality of ports.

The generally solid portion without the plurality of inlets, where present, may be adjacent to the reducing bush, or branch connection fitting. An advantage to having the generally solid portion free of the plurality of inlets may be that it improves the mechanical mounting of the nozzle apparatus.

The nozzle apparatus may be added to an end of the pipeline, and extend therein, substantially parallel (+/- 10 degrees) to the main longitudinal axis of the pipeline. Alternatively, it may be provided at an angle such as substantially at a right angle (+/-10 degrees) to the main longitudinal axis of the pipeline. Alternatively, the nozzle apparatus may be provided in a 45 degree angle fitting, and as such the nozzle apparatus may be provided at an angle such as at 45 degrees (+/- 10 degrees) from the main longitudinal axis of the pipeline.

The pipeline may have an inner diameter from 0.5” (-1.27 cm), optionally more than 0.75” (-1.91 cm) or more than 1” (-2.54 cm). In some embodiments the pipeline may have an inner diameter up to 2” (~5.08cm), optionally up to 3” (-7.62 cm), optionally up to 3.5” (-8.89 cm), or optionally greater than 3.5” (greater than -8.89 cm).

Whilst the nozzle apparatus described herein may be suitable for a variety of applications which require clear flow of fluid, it is preferred for use in pipelines, especially as a nozzle apparatus for a pipeline. For example, a sprinkler system for firefighting or fire containment especially in offshore oil and/or gas platforms.

In accordance with a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of using the nozzle apparatus described herein for firefighting and/or fire containment.

Thus the nozzle apparatus described herein may be a sprinkler apparatus.

The firefighting and/or fire containment is often for open sprinkler systems, that is those exposed to the environment. Precipitation and moisture thus encourage rust and other deterioration of such an open system. Those in the marine environment, such as offshore sprinkler systems, are particularly prone to debris within pipework leading to nozzles because of the salt water environment which can further deteriorate the pipework. Salt water by-products can also block nozzles.

The optional features of any aspect of the present invention can be incorporated into any other aspect of the present invention.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows a front view (A), a part-sectional view (B), and a perspective view (C) of a nozzle inlet in accordance with one aspect of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of a nozzle apparatus in accordance with another aspect of the present invention;

Figure 3a shows a sectional view of an embodiment of the Figure 2 nozzle apparatus;

Figure 3b shows a sectional view of a further embodiment of a nozzle apparatus;

Figure 4 shows a sectional view of a further embodiment of a nozzle apparatus connected to a pipeline via a T-joint;

Figure 5 shows a top view (A), a perspective view (B), a side view (C) and a sectional view (D) of an embodiment of an internal support which is part of the nozzle apparatus according to certain aspects of the present invention;

Figure 6 shows a top view (A), a side view (B), a sectional view (C) and a perspective view (D) of an embodiment of a nozzle outer body which is part of the nozzle apparatus according to certain aspects of the present invention; Figure 7a shows a top view (A), a side view (B), and a perspective view (C) of an embodiment of a nozzle dispersion shaft which is part of the nozzle apparatus according to certain aspects of the present invention;

Figure 7b shows a top view (A), a side view (B), and a perspective view (C) of a further embodiment of a nozzle dispersion shaft which is part of the nozzle apparatus according to certain aspects of the present invention;

Figure 8a shows a top view (A), a perspective view (B), and a side view (C) of an embodiment of an anode cap which is part of the nozzle apparatus according to certain aspects of the present invention; and Figure 8b shows a top view (A), a perspective view (B), and a side view (C) of an embodiment of an anode hat which is part of the nozzle apparatus according to certain aspects of the present invention.

Figure 1 shows a front view (A), a sectional view (B), and a perspective view (C) of a nozzle inlet 10. The nozzle inlet 10 is formed from a tube 16 extending from a first end to a second end. The first end of the tube has a tapered portion 12 with an inlet 14 at its apex. The inlet 14 comprises a circular portion and two slots provided in a crossarrangement such that they cross each other in the centre of the apex. The circular portion of the inlet 14 comprises a threaded portion 15, as can be clearly seen in views (B) and (C). The nozzle inlet 10 is made from brass CW602N which is a brass alloy with a high corrosion resistance. Brass alloys are basic metals which are particularly resistant to dezincification (where zinc is leached out of brass alloys) and galvanic corrosion, and they also have a high resistance to corrosion in marine environments.

The inlet 14 also comprises four circular apertures 27, one at each end of each slot. As will be described later, it is beneficial to have circular apertures 27 as well as slots to help reduce the risk of the inlets 14 becoming blocked compared to an inlet comprising just slots or just circular apertures.

Elongate inlets 20 extend longitudinally part of the way along a side wall 18 of the tube 16 and function to allow fluid (and smaller debris) through, but resist flow of larger particles. The elongate inlets 20 comprise holes 22 and slots 24. The holes 22 and slots 24 on each individual elongate inlet 20 are offset from the holes 22 and slots 24 on an adjacent elongate inlet 20. For example, each hole 22 is laterally adjacent to a slot 24 on either side.

As is shown particularly in Figure 1 (B), the holes 22 are wider than the slots 24, that is the diameter h of the holes 22 is greater than the width s of the slots 24. The length of the slots 24, for example the distance between adjacent edges of two adjacent holes 22 on an individual elongate inlet 20, is greater than the diameter of an individual hole 22. A lower portion of the tube 16 is free from elongate inlets 20, but comprises four ports 26 spaced equidistantly around the lower portion 18 of the tube 16.

The nozzle inlet 10 also comprises an upper threaded bush 30 and a lower threaded bush 32, separated by a hex nut 28. The diameter of the lower threaded bush 32 is greater than the diameter of the upper threaded bush 30. An internal diameter ch of the tube 16 is uniform from the base of the tapered portion 12 to the hex nut 28 where the internal diameter of the tube 16 increases to cf2, that is d2 is greater than di. The internal diameter dr is 15 mm, and the internal diameter d2 is 25 mm.

Figure 2 shows an exploded view of a nozzle apparatus 40 comprising the nozzle inlet 10, and Figure 3a shows a sectional view of the assembled nozzle apparatus 40. The nozzle apparatus 40 also comprises a first anode, or an anode hat 50, an internal support 60, an outer body 70, a nozzle dispersion shaft 80, and a second anode, or an anode cap 90. Figure 3b shows a sectional view of an elongate embodiment of the assembled nozzle apparatus 140 which is the same as Figure 3a except with a shorter nozzle dispersion shaft 180.

The nozzle inlet 10 is attachable to the outer body 70, which is shown in Figure 6. The outer body 70 comprises a housing 72, an inner threaded portion 76, a chamber 78, a shoulder 75, and a tapered outlet 79 leading to a nozzle outlet 73.

The lower threaded bush 32 of the nozzle inlet 10 is engageable with the inner threaded portion 76 of the outer body 70. The housing 72 comprises a flat portion 74 which allows in use a spanner, or other suitable tool, to engage with the housing 72 and provide a torque which turns the outer body 70, and “screws” the inner threaded portion 76 onto the lower threaded bush 32, thus attaching the nozzle inlet 10 to the outer body 70.

The internal support 60 is receivable within the chamber 78. The internal support 60 is shown in Figure 5, and comprises an outer wall 62, a socket 63, and two arms 68 located at an angle of 180 degrees apart, that is they are opposite one another, attaching the socket 63 to the outer wall 62. The socket 63 of the internal support 60 comprises a threaded portion 66. Flow paths 64a, b are defined between the arms 68, the socket 63 and the outer wall 62 such that the flow through the nozzle apparatus 40 splits into two symmetrical paths in use. If one flow path, for example flow path 64a, becomes blocked in use, the second flow path 64b would still allow fluid flow, thus helping to ensure there is always fluid communication between the inlet nozzle 10 and the nozzle outlet 73.

In use, the internal support 60 is provided in the chamber 78 sitting against the shoulder 75 of the outer body 70, as is shown in Figure 3a. The flow paths 64a, b allow fluid communication between the nozzle inlet 10 and the nozzle outlet 73.

The internal diameter cfe of the outer wall 62 of the internal support 60 (shown in Figure 3a) is greater than internal diameter cfe. The internal diameter cfe is 40 mm. The diameter d4 of the nozzle outlet 73 is smaller than each of ch, cfe, and cfe. The diameter d4 of the nozzle outlet 73 is from 8 mm to 11 mm.

The nozzle dispersion shaft 80, shown in Figure 7a, is receivable in the threaded portion 66 of the socket 63 of the internal support 60. The nozzle dispersion shaft 80 comprises a debris splitter 84, a threaded portion 86, a dispersion stem 88, and a circular dispersion plate 83, comprising tines 82 and gaps 81 between the tines 82. The gap 81 between each tine 82 is 1.1 mm.

The diameter of the threaded portion 86 is 9.5 mm. At least in the present embodiment, the diameter c/4 of the nozzle outlet 73 must be larger than the diameter of the threaded portion 86 of the nozzle dispersion shaft 80, so that the nozzle dispersion shaft 80 can pass through the nozzle outlet 73 and be threadably attached in use to the socket 63 of the internal support 60.

The debris splitter 84 is prism-shaped, with a pointed apex. The threaded portion 86 of the nozzle dispersion shaft 80 engages in use with the threaded portion 66 of the socket 63, thus attaching the nozzle dispersion shaft 80 to the internal support 60. The dispersion stem 88 extends outwith the outer body 70 by distance xi between the outlet nozzle 73 and the dispersion plate 83 of the nozzle dispersion shaft 80.

It can be seen particularly in Figures 3a and 3b that the nozzle outlet 73 is ring shaped due to the dispersion stem 88 passing though the nozzle outlet 73.

Figure 3b shows nozzle apparatus 140 with the same components as the Figure 3a embodiment, but with a different nozzle dispersion shaft 180. Nozzle dispersion shaft 180 is shown in Figure 7b. In contrast with the Figure 7a embodiment, nozzle dispersion shaft 180 comprises a dispersion plate 183 which is solid and continuous, that is there are no gaps in the dispersion plate. Furthermore, the dispersion stem 188 is shorter in length than the dispersion stem 88. As shown in Figure 3b, the dispersion stem 188 is attached to the internal support 60 in use, the internal support 60 being the same for both nozzle apparatuses 40, 140. The dispersion stem 188 extends outwith the outer body 70 by distance X2 between the outlet nozzle 73 and the dispersion plate 183 of the nozzle dispersion shaft 180. Distance X2 is considerably shorter than distance xi.

The nozzle dispersion shaft 80, 180 is interchangeable, that is nozzle dispersion shaft 80 is attachable and removable from the internal support 60, and replaceable with nozzle dispersion shaft 180, and vice versa. Further nozzle dispersion shafts (not shown) may also be used. Having an interchangeable nozzle dispersion shaft 80, 180 (or other) is beneficial for allowing different spray patterns and different water droplet sizes to be achieved for tackling different types of fires Further nozzle dispersion shafts (not shown) also have varying dispersion plate angles to help produce further spray patterns for tackling fires of varying sizes.

The anode cap 90 is attached in use to the nozzle dispersion shaft 80, 180 as shown in Figures 3a and 3b. The anode cap 90 itself is shown in Figure 8a. The anode cap 90 comprises a hex nut 94 with a flat top surface 92, and a threaded stem 96. The threaded stem 96 engages in use with a threaded portion (not shown) in the dispersion plate 83, 183 of the nozzle dispersion shaft 80, 180.

The anode cap 90 comprises an aluminium material which primarily inhibits corrosion, but can also help to prevent salt crystallisation, marine growth and lime scale build up on the nozzle dispersion shaft 80, 180. Similarly, the anode hat 50 attaches in use to the tapered portion 12 of the nozzle inlet 10 as shown in Figures 3a and 3b. The anode hat 50 itself is shown in Figure 8b. In contrast to the anode cap 90, the anode hat 50 comprises a hex nut 54 with a dome shaped top surface 52, and a threaded stem 56. In use, the threaded stem 56 engages with the threaded portion 15 in the circular portion of the inlet 14 of the nozzle inlet 10.

The anode hat 50 comprises the same material as the anode cap 90 and for the same purpose(s).

Aluminium is an amphoteric metal, and as such corrosion of the anodes 50, 90 will occur if the potential between the anodes 50, 90 and the rest of the nozzle apparatus 40, 140.

The presence of the anode hat 50 and the anode cap 90 allows the nozzle apparatus 40, 140 to operate in corrosive environments and also helps to mitigate the risk of the nozzle inlet and nozzle outlet becoming blocked.

In some embodiments, the anodes may be made of zinc. When zinc anodes are used in freshwater environments the anodes may become coated in zinc hydroxide which can cause the anodes to stop working. In salt water, the same may happen, in particular if the salt water is polluted. Zinc anodes can also form a coating if exposed to air. In such embodiments, the zinc anodes may be regularly replaced periodically, for example every two months. When aluminium anodes are used these problems may be mitigated, for example if aluminium anodes are exposed to air they remain active, and can reactivate when re-immersed in water, thus avoiding the need to replace the anodes.

Figure 4 shows the nozzle apparatus 40 (shown in Figure 3a) attached to a pipeline via a T-joint 36. In use, the upper threaded bush 30 of the nozzle inlet 10 engages with an inner threaded surface 37 of a reducing bush 34, and an outer threaded surface 38 of the reducing bush 34 engages with a threaded surface 39 on the T-joint 36.

The nozzle inlet 10 extends into the pipeline such that apertures 27 are outwith the centre of the pipeline, that is outwith 15% of a central axis of the pipeline. For example, in a 10 cm inner diameter pipeline which has a central axis at the midway point of the inner diameter, that is 5 cm, the centre is defined by the inner diameter +/- 1.5 cm from the central axis with a total diameter of 3 cm. In use, the nozzle inlet 10 can filter debris from entering which can help to mitigate blockages or reduce the number of blockages, experienced downstream, such as within the nozzle apparatus.

When the nozzle apparatus is provided part way along a pipeline, the nozzle inlet is typically positioned below the central axis of the pipeline, such as within 1.5 cm below the central axis, as this may help to prevent the pipeline blocking. When the nozzle apparatus is provided at the end of a pipeline, the nozzle inlet is typically positioned above the central axis of the pipeline, such as within 1.5 cm above the central axis, as this may help to maximise the volume of debris collected. When the nozzle apparatus is provided in a downpipe, there is no direct flow path into the chamber 78, thus mitigating the risk of debris or other contaminates being forced directly into the nozzle apparatus and increasing the risk of the nozzle blocking or completely failing.

The elongate inlets 20 are located within an adjacent ‘debris entrapment area’ 35 between the tube 16 and the inner diameter of the T-joint 36. A portion of the elongate inlets 20 overlap with the reducing bush 34.

The four ports 26 spaced equidistantly around the lower portion of the tube 16 are located within the reducing bush 34, that is below a top surface of the reducing bush 34 but above a bottom surface of the reducing bush 34. In use, the ports 26 help to prevent fluid from accumulating and sitting in the gap between the tube 16 and the reducing bush 34, thus helping to prevent crystallisation and the build-up of scale which could block or damage the inlet nozzle 10. The ports 26 and the gap between the tube 16 and the reducing bush 34 together have a similar functionality to the slots and holes of the elongate inlets 20.

In use, fluid flows in the pipeline through the T-joint 36 in the direction shown by the arrow. The fluid enters the nozzle inlet 10 via the elongate inlets 20 in the tube 16. The inventor of the present invention considers that, in general holes allow more flow through compared to slots, but holes are more likely to block compared to the slots.

However, rather than merely providing both slots and holes, embodiments of the present invention include the elongate inlets. This also has the advantage of maintaining a higher flow rate compared to slots and holes separately. In the present embodiment, any debris which can block the slots 24 will flow through the holes 22, and any debris, such as circular shaped debris, that can block the holes 22 will pass around the slots 24 and not become lodged in the slots 24. Moreover the adjacent flow through a slot/hole will encourage any debris partially blocking the elongate inlet to be dislodged. As slots and holes are liable to blockage from different shapes of debris, the elongate inlets provide this synergy compared to slots or holes separately. Therefore such a combination of preferably offset holes 22 and slots 24 helps to reduce the risk of the elongate inlets 20 blocking compared to elongate inlets which are all holes or all slots.

The rounded shape of the top surface 52 of the anode hat 50 causes any debris to flow around the surface 52, and if it is too large to enter the slots and apertures 27 in the tapered portion 12, or elongate inlets 20, it will not enter the nozzle apparatus 40. Instead it will flow around and down past the nozzle inlet 10 into the debris entrapment area 35.

The fluid entering the nozzle apparatus 40 via the nozzle inlet 10 will flow down through the nozzle apparatus 40 in the direction of the arrow shown. When the fluid passes from internal diameter ch of the tube 16 to internal diameter cfe, the velocity of the fluid flow decreases due to an increase in volume causing a reduction in fluid pressure.

Any debris which is small enough to enter the nozzle apparatus 40 via the nozzle inlet 10, will also travel down through the nozzle apparatus 40 in the direction of the arrow shown towards the debris splitter 84. In use, some particles of debris in the fluid flow can be fractured and/or broken into smaller particles if they make contact with the pointed apex of the debris splitter 84. This helps to ensure that any debris exiting nozzle apparatus via the nozzle outlet 73 is sufficiently small such that it does not block the nozzle outlet 73, thus reducing the requirements for service and maintenance of the nozzle apparatus 40, 140.

In use, even though the diameter d3 of the outer wall 62 of the internal support 60 is greater than diameter d2 of the tube 16 of the nozzle inlet 10, the presence of the socket 63 actually reduces the volume available for fluid to flow through, thus causing the fluid pressure and also velocity of the fluid flow to increase as it passes through the internal support 60.

Due to the shape of the tapered outlet 79 there is a continuous decrease in internal diameter towards the nozzle outlet 73, which causes the pressure and velocity of the fluid flow to continuously increase as the fluid passes through the tapered outlet 79 towards the nozzle outlet 73. The angle of the tapered nozzle outlet 73 ensures that the fluid flow has sufficient velocity on exiting the nozzle outlet 73 to match the performance required for the K-Factor. The nozzle apparatus 40 also provides a volume for fluid to flow through from the nozzle inlet 10 to the nozzle outlet 73 which is greater than that required for the nozzle to achieve its designed K-Factor.

The fluid then exits the nozzle apparatus 40 through nozzle outlet 73. In use, the fluid exiting the nozzle outlet 73 falls through distance xi and either contacts with the tines 82 giving a full 360 degree angled spray (fi), or it passes through the gaps 81 giving a more substantially vertical spray {fi). Thus the presence of tines permits a multi-spray pattern of fluid, which is ideal for fire suppression dowsing equipment which can help to protect against fire hazards and explosions.

In the embodiment shown in Figure 3b, the fluid exiting the nozzle outlet 73 falls through distance X2, which is considerably shorter than distance xi, and contacts with the solid dispersion plate 183. The shorter distance X2 restricts the nozzle outlet 73 which further increases the pressure of the fluid flow. Upon contacting the dispersion plate 183, the increased pressure, and thus increased velocity, of the fluid causes the fluid to be converted into a continuous hollow-cone shaped fine mist due to the circular shape of the dispersion plate 183. Such a hollow cone shaped mist is ideal for heat suppression which creates a protective barrier against thermal radiation.

An advantage of embodiments of the present invention may be that the dispersion stem and circular dispersion plate of the nozzle dispersion shaft allows 360 degrees of fluid dispersion, compared to alternatives where a supporting outer structure for a dispersion plate reduces coverage.

Thus embodiments of the present invention provide an advantage of drawing debris through the nozzle apparatus rather than storing it therein, as described in WO2014/009713, which reduces maintenance requirements for emptying the container. The fluid flow therefore has a clear flow path through the nozzle apparatus.

Modifications and improvements can be incorporated without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims (30)

1. A nozzle apparatus comprising a nozzle inlet, the nozzle inlet comprising: a tube, the tube having a longitudinal bore and a side wall; a plurality of inlets circumferentially spaced around a portion of the side wall of the tube; wherein the plurality of inlets are elongate, and each of the plurality of inlets comprise at least one hole and at least one adjoining slot, the at least one hole having a diameter greater than a width of the at least one slot.

2. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of inlets comprises at least three holes, optionally at least five holes, optionally at most eleven holes, or optionally at most seven holes.

3. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of inlets comprises at least three slots, optionally at least five slots, optionally at most eleven slots, or optionally at most seven slots.

3. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one hole on one of the plurality of inlets is offset from the at least one hole on an adjacent inlet.

4. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein each inlet of the plurality of inlets comprises a plurality of holes, and each inlet of the plurality of inlets comprises a plurality of slots.

5. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of inlets comprise a series of alternate and adjoining holes and slots.

6. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein each of the plurality of inlets extend longitudinally part of the way along the side wall of the tube for at least 1.5 cm, at least 2 cm, or for more than 3 cm.

7. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one slot has a length of from 1 mm to 25 mm, optionally from 2 mm to 15 mm, optionally from 4 mm to 8 mm.

8. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the at least one slot has a width of from 1 mm to 3.5 mm, or from 1.5 mm to 3 mm.

9. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in claim 8, wherein the at least one hole has a width or diameter of from 1.5 mm to 4.0 mm, or from 2 mm to 3.5 mm.

10. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the length of each slot is from 1 to 5 or optionally from 1.5 to 3 times greater than the width or diameter of each hole.

11. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the tube extends from a first end to a second end, and wherein a generally solid portion without the plurality of inlets extends between the plurality of inlets and the second end for more than 10% of the tube’s length, optionally more than 20%.

12. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in claim 11, wherein the generally solid portion of the tube comprises at least one port.

13. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the first end of the tube has a tapered portion and a circular aperture is provided in a centre of an apex of the tapered portion.

14. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the tube has an upper threaded portion and a lower threaded portion, the upper threaded portion closer to the inlet side of the nozzle apparatus in use, each threaded portion being provided on an outer surface of the tube and the external diameter of the lower threaded portion being greater than the external diameter of the upper threaded portion.

15. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the longitudinal bore of the tube includes a first section with a first internal cross-sectional area and a second section with a second different internal cross-sectional area.

16. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising an outer body attachable to the nozzle inlet, the outer body providing an outlet from the nozzle apparatus in fluid communication with the longitudinal bore of the tube.

17. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in claim 16, wherein the outlet from the nozzle apparatus is ring shaped.

18. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 17, further comprising an internal support receivable in an internal chamber of the outer body wherein the internal support provides at least two separate flow paths between the nozzle inlet and the outlet from the nozzle apparatus.

19. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a deflector comprising a dispersion plate and a dispersion stem.

20. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in claim 19 when dependent on claim 18, wherein the dispersion stem is attached to the internal support .such that the outlet from the nozzle apparatus is defined in part by the dispersion stem and so is ring-shaped.

21. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 20, wherein there is a single connection, preferably a co-axial connection, between the dispersion plate and the rest of the nozzle apparatus.

22. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21, the dispersion plate comprising a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the top surface is at an angle of from 90 degrees to 170 degrees relative to the dispersion stem.

23. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in claim 22, wherein the deflector is releaseably attached and so is interchangeable.

24. A nozzle apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the nozzle apparatus further comprises at least one sacrificial anode.

25. A pipeline apparatus comprising a pipeline and the nozzle apparatus as claimed in claims 1 to 24.

26. A pipeline apparatus as claimed in claim 25, wherein the nozzle inlet extends into the pipeline.

27. A pipeline apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 26 , wherein a port is provided in the tube such that it is positioned adjacent the reducing bush, such that in use fluid can flow between the tube and the reducing bush before entering the port.

28. A pipeline apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the nozzle apparatus is attachable to the pipeline via a reducing bush or a branch connection fitting.

29. A pipeline apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 28, wherein the length of the tube of the nozzle inlet extends into the pipeline beyond the reducing bush or branch connection fitting.

30. A method of using the nozzle apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 24 and the pipeline apparatus as claimed in any one of claims 25 to 29, for firefighting and/or fire containment especially on offshore oil and gas platforms.