DESC:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention generally relates to a manhole sealing assembly for a glass lined reactor. The invention addresses the need for a more efficient and reliable sealing mechanism for manhole, eliminating the dependence on traditional gaskets and the skilled process of shimming to prevent leaks. This innovative solution introduces a "Smart Seal," a bushing designed to effectively prevent leaks from the manhole covers.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
In the field of chemical and industrial processes, reactors are specialized vessels designed to carry out chemical reactions under controlled conditions. They play a central role in various applications, such as synthesizing pharmaceuticals, creating polymers, refining petroleum, and manufacturing products. Traditional reactors often face challenges due to their complex manufacturing processes. Ideally, reactors are configured to manage variables like temperature, pressure, and reactant concentration, thereby providing an optimal environment for chemical reactions to occur. To sustain the corrosiveness of acids or chemicals that are less than pH 7, glass-lined reactors are used for more durability. Engineered to withstand corrosive chemical reactions and high pressures of up to 6 bar, these reactors endure intense heat during their manufacture, particularly during the furnace-baking stage, where temperatures can reach a staggering 900 degrees Celsius.
Figure 1A illustrates for a conventional manhole cover assembly for a reactor, as known in the prior art. The assembly (1001) comprises a manhole nozzle (1031), a manhole cover (1041) and a protection ring (2031), where the manhole is covered with the manhole cover (1041) and separated with the protection ring (2031).
Figure 1B illustrates an exploded view of the components of the conventional manhole cover assembly, as known in the prior art. The assembly (1001) comprises the manhole cover (1041) on top of the reactor (1011), followed by with one or more gaskets (2021, 2041) and then the protection ring (2031). The protection ring (2031) is placed over the manhole nozzle (1031) on the reactor (1011). The protection ring (2031) is locked with one or more bolts and c clamps (1051). The protection ring (2031) may be is sandwiched with the one or more gaskets (2021, 2041). The protection ring (2031) and the one or more gaskets (2021, 2041) may be aligned and fixed with each other with the help of one or more blots.
The one or more gaskets (2021, 2041) are configured to avoid friction between the manhole nozzle and protection ring. It is tightened with the bolts, which are bolted to the manhole nozzle. To hold this together, it is clamped using C-clamps to hold the assembly together.
The protection ring (2031) is sandwiched between one or more gaskets (2021, 2041). These components may be aligned and secured to each other using one or more J-bolts. The gaskets (2021, 2041) are configured to minimize friction between the Manhole Nozzle and the Protection Ring. One or more bolts and C-clamps are used to fix the assembly.
However, such reactors (1011) present a number of challenges, including the configuration and method of operation. The manhole nozzle (1031) is a critical component that provides access to the interior of the reactor (1011) for cleaning, maintenance, and inspection. It is also a potential source of leaks, as it must be securely sealed to withstand operational pressures that can reach up to 6 bar. Traditional reactor sealing assembly (1001) involve the use of a manhole cover (1041) clamped in place with bolts, C-clamps and a protection ring sandwiched between two gaskets.
Additionally, the unique distortions caused by the extreme heat pose a further challenge. Standard gaskets, which would typically provide a reliable seal, are inadequate due to the uneven surfaces resulting from the heat-induced distortion. To address this, a precise and skilful process called shimming, is employed. Shimming involves the meticulous placement of small pieces of gasket sheets into the uneven areas, effectively creating a custom-sealed barrier that can withstand the desired pressure levels. It is important to note that shimming is not a standardized or automated process; rather, it requires the expertise of skilled craftsmen who possess the knowledge and precision necessary to ensure a leak-free seal. This manual approach, while effective, can be time- consuming and labour-intensive. Needless to state, a leaking manhole is not only an environmental hazard, it is a health and safety hazard and it can have a huge commercial impact to the processing plant in lost process fluid costs, clean-up costs and failed equipment costs.
Therefore, there is a need for a reliable manhole sealing assembly for a glass-lined reactor that can address the challenges mentioned above. The assembly must overcome the challenges posed by heat-induced distortions and the need for manual, non-standardized sealing methods like shimming. It must solve these problems by offering standardized and potentially automated sealing mechanisms capable of adapting to distortions, reducing the risk of direct glass-to-glass contact, and consequently, lowering the risks of environmental hazards and health and safety concerns.
OBJECT OF THE INVENTION
An object of the present invention is to provide a reliable and efficient manhole sealing assembly for glass-lined reactors that can effectively deal with heat-induced distortions.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a reliable and efficient manhole sealing assembly for glass-lined reactors that can effectively deal with manual sealing limitations.
Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a manhole sealing assembly that reduces the manual skilled labour involved in the sealing process by introducing self-setting/foolproof techniques, thus reducing both time and human error, which in turn minimizes the risks of leaks, environmental hazards, and health and safety concerns.
Yet another object of the present invention is to eliminate the risk of direct glass-to-glass contact in the manhole sealing assembly, thus improving the longevity of the glass lining and overall durability of the reactor.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention provide a manhole sealing assembly for a glass-lined reactor. This assembly includes, but not limited to, a manhole cover configured to seal a manhole nozzle of the glass-lined reactor; a sealing bush situated between the manhole cover and the manhole nozzle; an upper O-ring positioned within an upper slot of the sealing bush; a lower O-ring positioned within a lower slot of the sealing bush; and a plurality of C-clamps arranged around the periphery of the manhole cover to securely attach the manhole sealing assembly to the reactor nozzle.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the manhole cover includes, but is not limited to, an inspection window allowing for internal visual monitoring without disassembly.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the sealing bush is composed of materials selected from a group comprising, but is not limited to, PEEK, PVDF, Nylon, and PTFE.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the upper O-ring and the lower O-ring are composed of, but are not limited to, FEP encapsulated silicon core.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the O-rings provide a sealing mechanism that is resistant to, but not limited to, corrosive chemicals commonly used within the glass-lined reactor.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the upper O-ring and the lower O-ring are selected from, but are not limited to, materials including Viton, Silicone, Nitrile, EPDM, or Neoprene.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the manhole sealing assembly further comprises C-clamps that provide adjustable tension for securing the manhole cover to the manhole nozzle.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the manhole cover is comprised of materials selected from the group comprising, but not limited to, stainless steel, Hastelloy, or other corrosion-resistant alloys.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the manhole cover is adaptable to various reactor configurations by virtue of the plurality of C-clamps that accommodate different flange sizes of the manhole nozzle.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the manhole cover is configured to facilitate rapid removal and replacement for maintenance operations without the use of tools.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular to the description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments. These and other features, benefits and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by reference to the following text figure, with like reference numbers referring to like structures across the views, wherein:
Fig. 1A-1B illustrates a conventional manhole cover assembly for a reactor, as known in the prior art;
Fig. 2A illustrates a manhole sealing assembly for a glass-lined reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and
Fig. 2B illustrates an exploded view of the components of a sealing assembly a reactor, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3A illustrates Circular O-ring assembled in a smart bush of the manhole sealing assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 3B illustrates Elliptical O-ring assembled in a smart bush of the manhole sealing assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 4 illustrates a sectional view of the assembly shown in Fig. 3A-3B, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention is described hereinafter by various embodiments. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
While the present invention is described herein by way of example using embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is not limited to the embodiments of drawing or drawings described and are not intended to represent the scale of the various components. Further, some components that may form a part of the invention may not be illustrated in certain figures, for ease of illustration, and such omissions do not limit the embodiments outlined in any way. It should be understood that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. As used throughout this description, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense, (i.e., meaning must). Further, the words "a" or "an" mean "at least one” and the word “plurality” means “one or more” unless otherwise mentioned. Furthermore, the terminology and phraseology used herein is solely used for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as limiting in scope. Language such as "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," or "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to be broad and encompass the subject matter listed thereafter, equivalents, and additional subject matter not recited, and is not intended to exclude other additives, components, integers, or steps. Likewise, the term "comprising" is considered synonymous with the terms "including" or "containing" for applicable legal purposes. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles, and the like is included in the specification solely for the purpose of providing a context for the present invention. It is not suggested or represented that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present invention.
This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following detailed description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, a number of materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations. These materials are to be treated as exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
The present invention essentially discloses a manhole sealing assembly for a glass-lined reactor.
In general, glass-lined reactors are a cornerstone in chemical processing, valued for their robustness against corrosive reactions and extreme operational conditions. These reactors, equipped with a durable glass lining, are indispensable in handling a wide array of chemical substances. However, an integral aspect of their functionality lies in the effectiveness of their sealing, particularly at critical junctures like the manhole. Ensuring a secure seal is paramount, as inadequate sealing can lead to leaks, posing environmental, safety, and operational challenges. Addressing the sealing efficiency, especially in the face of manufacturing-induced irregularities and intense operational demands, remains a pivotal concern in the design and maintenance of these reactors.
At its core, the primary objective of the present invention (100) is to offer a better sealing mechanism for glass-lined reactors that is both efficient and reliable. Traditional setups, often depicted in older configuration like those in Figures 1A and 1B, rely on a multitude of components including the protection ring (2031), one or more gaskets (2031, 2021), and locking bolts (2051) placed over the manhole nozzle (1031). The conventional approach complicates the assembly process, making it cumbersome and increasing the likelihood of mistakes and leaks.
In contrast, the present invention offers a streamlined, and a more reliable solution. In terms of components, the reactor (102) serves as the central vessel for chemical reactions. It is robustly configured to withstand operational pressures may be of the order 3 to 8 bar, thus significantly reducing the risk of leaks or ruptures. The Manhole Nozzle (103) acts as the anchoring point for the manhole sealing assembly (100).
Figure 2A illustrates a manhole sealing assembly (100) for a glass-lined reactor (102), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in figure 2A, the manhole sealing assembly (100) is mounted on a manhole nozzle (103) of the glass-lined reactor (102) to provide necessary sealing. Herein, the manhole sealing assembly (100) is configured to partially fit inside the Manhole Nozzle (103) to accommodate the operational pressures of the reactor. It reduces the risk of leakage. The manhole assembly (100) serves as a removable lid that provides access to the interior of the reactor for maintenance, cleaning, and inspection purposes. It is typically located on the top or side of the reactor vessel and is secured to the manhole nozzle (103), which serves as the anchoring point. It is configured to seal the manhole of the reactor securely. It ensures that the reactor (100) can operate under the predetermined pressure and temperature conditions without any leakage.
Each component of the manhole sealing assembly (100) will now be described in subsequent drawings.
Figure 2B illustrates an exploded view of the components of the manhole sealing assembly (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in figure 2B, the manhole sealing assembly (100) comprises, but is not limited to, a seal or sealing bush (207), an upper O-ring (206), a lower O-ring (208), a manhole cover with or without an inspection window (106) and a plurality of C clamps (shown in figure 2A) around the periphery of the manhole cover (104) to securely mount the manhole sealing assembly (100) over the reactor nozzle (103).
The materials used for the manhole cover (104) may vary depending on the specific requirements of the application and may be selected from, but is not limited to, stainless steel, Hastelloy, or other corrosion-resistant alloys. These materials offer strength, durability, and resistance to chemical attacks, making them ideal for use in harsh chemical environments.
In some of the embodiments, the manhole cover (104) may include an inspection window (106) as shown in figures 2A-2B. The primary functions of the manhole cover (104) and the inspection window (106) are interrelated. The manhole cover (104) ensures that the reactor is securely sealed, minimizing the risk of leaks and maintaining optimal internal conditions for chemical reactions to occur. Generally, the inspection window allows for visual monitoring of internal operations without requiring disassembly or interruption of the process. In the case of a glass-lined reactors, the inspection window (106) may be directly connected to the manhole cover (104) and is typically positioned on the top or side of the reactor vessel. This enables operators to visually monitor chemical reactions, the level of reactants, or other crucial aspects requiring observation during operation.
Figure 3A-3B illustrates Circular and Elliptical O-ring assembled in a smart bush of the manhole sealing assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The sealing bush (207) constitutes a pivotal element of the manhole sealing assembly (100), serving a dual purpose: to enhance the sealing efficacy and to facilitate the distribution of operational pressure evenly across the sealing interface. The shape of the sealing bush (207) may be selected according to the shape of the manhole . The shape of the sealing bush (207) may be selected from, but not limited to, cylindrical, circular or elliptical. Figure 3A depicts the circular shaped sealing bush (207 a) and the Figure 3B depicts the Elliptical shaped sealing bush (207 b). It is engineered to partially fit within the manhole nozzle (103), effectively bridging the interface between the manhole cover (104) and the reactor's body. This design feature ensures a snug fit, thereby optimizing the seal integrity and mitigating leakage risks.
Figure 4 illustrates a sectional view of the assembly shown in Fig. 3A-3B, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In terms of construction, the sealing bush (207) is crafted with precision to include two strategically placed slots—one on the upper side and another on the lower side. The same has been illustrated in figure 4. As shown in figures 4, these slots are specifically configured to accommodate the upper O-ring (206) and the lower O-ring (208), respectively. The inclusion of these O-rings serves to provide an additional sealing mechanism, further enhancing the leak-proof properties of the assembly. The integration of the O-rings into the slots of the sealing bush ensures that they remain securely in place, even under varying pressure conditions, thus preventing their dislodgement or damage during reactor operations.
The material selection for the sealing bush (207) is a critical consideration, as it must exhibit superior chemical resistance, withstand high temperatures, and endure the mechanical stresses imposed by the reactor's operational parameters. The material for seal or sealing bush (207) can be selected from, but is not limited to, options such as PEEK, PVDF, Nylon, or any softer material, depending on the reactor's specific operational requirements. This flexibility in material selection allows the Sealing assembly to be tailored to various industrial needs, while its original design, made from PTFE, offers high chemical resistance and low friction properties. These materials are chosen to ensure long-term reliability and to maintain the integrity of the seal under the harsh conditions typically encountered in chemical processing environments.
The Upper O-Ring (206) and Lower O-Rings (208) provide an added layer of reliability. The material for the Upper O-Ring (206) and Lower O-Rings (208), can be selected from, but is not limited to, Viton, Silicone, Nitrile, EPDM, or Neoprene, depending on the reactor's specific operational requirements. Preferably the upper O-ring (206) and the lower O-ring (208) may be FEP for its extensive chemical resistance, these alternative materials each offer unique advantages in terms of cost, availability, or specialized performance attributes.
The sealing integrity of chemical reactors has traditionally been reliant on the use of gaskets, typically constituted of PTFE material rings (2021, 2041). Strategically placed between components, these gaskets create a sandwiched structure enveloped to enhance corrosive resistance, provide a cushioning effect, and mitigate friction between contacting surfaces. Despite offering a broad contact area, this configuration is predisposed to degradation under the high temperatures and pressures characteristic of chemical reactors. Moreover, the conventional gasket approach necessitates a shimming process for adapting to uneven surfaces—a manual and labor-intensive method that involves adding sealing material to achieve desired integrity.
In stark contrast, the O-rings (206, 208) employed in the present invention signify a substantial advancement in sealing technology. Composed of a silicon core with an FEP coating, these O-rings are ingeniously designed to offer a concentrated point of contact (such as a point contact or a line contact), contrasting the expansive surface area contact of traditional gaskets. This focused point of contact provided by O-rings (206, 208) ensures a precise and tight seal, substantially reducing the surface interaction with the hot body of the reactor nozzle (103), thus diminishing the likelihood of thermal and pressure-induced degradation. Additionally, the line contact afforded by the O-rings (206, 208) translates to a more efficient sealing mechanism, reducing the need for manual intervention and enabling a 'smart seal' capability. The reactor nozzle (103) and the O-ring (206, 208) coalesce to form an automatic, self-adjusting seal that obviates the need for laborious shimming, thereby streamlining the assembly process and enhancing operational efficiency.
The innovative application of O-rings (206, 208) within the present invention is not a mere substitution of one sealing component for another; it is a deliberate engineering choice that directly addresses the shortcomings of existing technologies. It stands as a testament to the advancement over prior art, offering a sealing solution that is not only more reliable but also significantly less susceptible to the failings common to gaskets. The O-rings (206, 208) in the present invention provide a sophisticated solution that ensures 100% sealing efficiency, capable of withstanding the harsh conditions inherent to the chemical processing environment while also simplifying the installation and maintenance process. This distinctive design, material selection, and application of O-rings (206, 208) are key factors that underscore the novelty and non-obviousness of the present invention, setting a new paradigm in reactor sealing technology.
In some alternate embodiments of the present invention, the O-rings (206, 208) may be made of/replaced with advanced sealing materials such as expanded other encapsulated Orings that can withstand higher temperatures and pressures with corrosive resistant properties, catering to specialized industrial applications. Additionally, in some other embodiments requiring glass-lined reactors to operate under less aggressive conditions, a simpler single O-ring design may suffice, reducing complexity and cost.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the following paragraphs now provides exemplary dimensions and parameters for the components of the manhole sealing assembly (100), designed to withstand operational pressures in the range of 3 to 8 bar:
The reactor (102), forming the foundational structure of the manhole sealing assembly, is typically fabricated with a diameter ranging from 500mm to 3000mm, with an optimal operational diameter being approximately 2000mm for standard applications. The wall thickness of the reactor is crucial for pressure endurance and is thus designed to be between 10mm and 50mm, where a thickness of 30mm is considered preferable for balancing structural integrity and material efficiency. The manhole nozzle (103), serving as the interface for the sealing assembly, is dimensioned with an internal diameter that facilitates access while maintaining strength, generally between 300mm and 600mm, with a preferred diameter of 500mm for ease of operation and compatibility with standard reactor sizes. The manhole nozzle is not limited to circular shape but also considered to have elliptical shape with a nozzle configuration of 300X400 and 350X450. This nozzle includes a flange whose thickness can vary from 20mm to 40mm, ensuring a robust connection with the manhole cover (104), where 40mm is the thickness that typically provides a reliable seal without excess material usage.
The sealing bush (207), a key component for achieving a hermetic seal, possesses an outer diameter marginally less than the internal diameter of the manhole nozzle (103) to ensure a snug fit without imposing undue stress on the assembly; a clearance of 1mm to 3mm is generally sufficient. The sealing bush's length is designed to provide adequate surface for the O-rings (206, 208) to seat and seal effectively, typically extending from 30mm to 80mm, with a preferred length of 50mm, offering an optimal balance between sealing surface and material use. The O-rings (206, 208) themselves are dimensioned to achieve a precise sealing action; their cross-sectional diameter may range from 10mm to 20mm, with a preferred diameter of 10/12mm, providing the necessary compression to seal against operational pressures without undue deformation. The width of the slots on the sealing bush (207) that house the O-rings should ideally be 3mm to 5mm greater than the diameter of the O-ring to allow for expansion under pressure and thermal conditions.
Lastly, the C-clamps (105) are chosen to complement the dimensions of the manhole cover (104) and the nozzle (103), with a clamping range that allows for secure fastening and easy release for maintenance. The length of the C-clamps is contingent upon the assembly's overall height, which includes the combined thickness of the manhole cover (104), the sealing bush (207), and any additional clearance for the O-rings, typically resulting in a range from 100mm to 250mm, depending on the specific design requirements.
It will be appreciated by a skilled addressee that these dimensions and ranges are illustrative only and should not be taken in a strict sense. These can be adjusted to accommodate reactors of different sizes and operational specifications, ensuring that the sealing assembly is versatile enough to be implemented across a variety of industrial applications while maintaining the innovation's distinctive advantages.

Exemplary method of Assembly/operation:
i. Initial Preparation (Reference Figure 2B):
• Begin by inspecting the manhole nozzle (103) on the reactor (102) to ensure that it is free from any debris or damage that might compromise the seal.
• Check the components of the manhole sealing assembly (100), including the sealing bush (207), upper O-ring (206), lower O-ring (208), and manhole cover (104) for any defects.
ii. Installation of O-Rings (Reference Figures 2A and 2B):
iii. Place the upper O-ring (206) into the upper slot and the lower O-ring (208) into the lower slot of the sealing bush (207). These O-rings should fit snugly within the designated slots, providing a line contact seal with the nozzle (103). Placement of Sealing Bush (Reference Figure 2B):
• Insert the sealing bush (207) into the manhole nozzle (103), ensuring that it is seated correctly. The sealing bush (207) should partially fit inside the nozzle (103) with the slots aligning with the nozzle’s opening.
iv. Positioning the Manhole Cover (Reference Figure 2B):
• Carefully place the manhole cover (104), which may include an inspection window (106), onto the sealing bush (207). Ensure that the cover (104) aligns properly with the bush (207) and the O-rings (206, 208) are not dislodged during this process.
v. Securing with C-Clamps (Reference Figure 2A):
• Utilize the C-clamps (105) to clamp down the manhole cover (104) onto the nozzle (103). The C-clamps (105) should be evenly distributed around the periphery of the manhole cover (104) to apply uniform pressure and ensure an even seal.
• Tighten the C-clamps (105) progressively in a cross-pattern to avoid uneven pressure distribution that could compromise the seal.
vi. Final Inspection and Testing:
• Once all the C-clamps (105) are secured, perform a visual inspection to verify that all components are correctly assembled and that there are no gaps or misalignments.
• Conduct a hydro-pressure test by gradually increasing the internal pressure of the reactor (102) to 6-8 bar within safe operational limits to ensure that there is no leakage at the manhole sealing assembly (100).
vii. Operation (Reference Figure 2A and 2B):
• With the manhole sealing assembly (100) securely in place, the reactor (102) can be operated under the predetermined conditions. The seal will maintain integrity due to the pressure-responsive design of the O-rings (206, 208) which enhance the seal in response to increased internal pressures.
viii. Maintenance and Disassembly:
• For maintenance or inspection, the C-clamps (105) can be loosened, allowing the manhole cover (104) to be removed without disturbing the O-rings (206, 208) or the sealing bush (207).
• The O-rings (206, 208) can be inspected and replaced if necessary, providing a straightforward and efficient maintenance process.

In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the manhole sealing assembly (100) operates on a principle where the O-rings (206, 208) are compressed against the reactor nozzle (103) and the manhole cover (104), creating a high-integrity seal. The O-rings, made of resilient materials, deform to fill the microscopic irregularities of the mating surfaces, thereby preventing any fluid or gas leakage. Under the operational pressures of 3 to 8 bar, typical of Indian chemical processing conditions, the O-rings exhibit a pressure-induced sealing effect, where the sealing force increases with the internal pressure, enhancing the sealing capability.

This method ensures that the manhole sealing assembly (100) is assembled in a manner that maximizes sealing efficiency and reliability. The design allows for easy assembly and disassembly, facilitating routine maintenance and inspection without compromising the integrity of the reactor (102). The use of O-rings (206, 208) in conjunction with the sealing bush (207) provides a novel sealing mechanism that is both effective and efficient, distinguishing it from traditional gasket-based systems.
The present invention offers a number of advantages:
• Enhanced Sealing Integrity: By utilizing O-rings (206, 208) with a focused point of contact, the invention provides a precise and tight seal, reducing the likelihood of leakage.
• Reduced Maintenance: The design of the sealing assembly allows for straightforward disassembly and replacement of parts, which simplifies maintenance procedures.
• Operational Efficiency: The 'smart seal' capability of the O-rings reduces the need for manual shimming and laborious assembly processes.
• Material Versatility: The choice of materials for the sealing bush (207) and O-rings (206, 208) can be tailored to specific operational requirements, offering flexibility across various industrial applications. Sealing bush can be offered in vast range of colors depending on the customer requirements.
• Automated Adaptability: The design allows the sealing mechanism to automatically adjust to the operational pressures, enhancing the reliability of the seal without additional adjustments.
• Safety and Environmental Compliance: By providing a more reliable seal, the invention mitigates risks associated with leaks, enhancing safety and environmental protection.
• Cost-Effectiveness: The streamlined assembly process and reduced need for frequent maintenance can result in cost savings over the life of the reactor.
• Robustness under Extreme Conditions: The invention is designed to withstand harsh chemical environments and high-pressure conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications.
Various modifications to these embodiments are apparent to those skilled in the art from the description and the accompanying drawings. The principles associated with the various embodiments described herein may be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the description is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown along with the accompanying drawings but is to be providing broadest scope of consistent with the principles and the novel and inventive features disclosed or suggested herein. Accordingly, the invention is anticipated to hold on to all other such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the present invention and appended claims.

,CLAIMS:We Claim
1. A manhole sealing assembly (100) for a glass-lined reactor (102), the manhole sealing assembly (100) comprising:
a manhole cover (104) configured to seal a manhole nozzle (103) of the glass-lined reactor (102);
a sealing bush (207) situated between the manhole cover (104) and the manhole nozzle (103);
an upper O-ring (206) positioned within an upper slot of the sealing bush (207);
a lower O-ring (208) positioned within a lower slot of the sealing bush (207); and
a plurality of C-clamps (105) arranged around the periphery of the manhole cover (104) to securely attach the manhole sealing assembly (100) to the reactor nozzle (103).
2. The manhole sealing assembly (100) of claim 1, wherein the manhole cover (104) includes an inspection window (106) allowing for internal visual monitoring without disassembly.
3. The manhole sealing assembly (100) of claim 1, wherein the sealing bush (207) is composed of a material selected from a group consisting of PEEK, PVDF, Nylon, and PTFE.
4. The manhole sealing assembly (100) of claim 1, wherein the upper O-ring (206) and the lower O-ring (208) are composed of a silicon core with an FEP encapsulation.
5. The manhole sealing assembly (100) of claim 1, wherein the O-rings (206, 208) provide a sealing mechanism that is resistant to corrosive chemicals commonly used within the glass-lined reactor (102).
6. The manhole sealing assembly (100) of claim 1, wherein the upper O-ring (206) and the lower O-ring (208) are selected from materials including Viton, Silicone, Nitrile, EPDM, or Neoprene.
7. The manhole sealing assembly (100) of claim 1, further comprising C-clamps (105) that provide adjustable tension for securing the manhole cover (104) to the manhole nozzle (103).
8. The manhole sealing assembly (100) of claim 1, wherein the manhole cover (104) is comprised of a material selected from the group consisting of glass lined stainless steel, Hastelloy, or other corrosion-resistant alloys.
9. The manhole sealing assembly (100) of claim 1, wherein the manhole cover (104) is adaptable to various reactor configurations by virtue of the plurality of C-clamps (105) that accommodate different flange sizes of the manhole nozzle (103).
10. The manhole sealing assembly (100) of claim 1, wherein the manhole cover (104) is configured to facilitate rapid removal and replacement for maintenance operations without the use of tools.