A chemical injection quill works by delivering chemicals directly into the center of a flowing fluid inside a pipe. The quill ensures proper chemical mixing and protects the system from damage. Each part of the quill plays a role in allowing this process to happen safely and effectively.
How Do Chemical Injection Quills Work?
1. Chemical Enters Through the Feed Line
A chemical injection pump pushes the chemical from a storage tank into the feed line. The feed line is connected to the back of the injection quill. This line applies pressure, which forces the chemical into the quill body.
2. Check Valve Prevents Backflow
As the chemical enters the quill, it passes through a check valve. This valve opens only when the chemical moves forward. It closes if the main pipeline pressure is higher, preventing pipeline fluid from flowing backward into the feed line.
3. Chemical Moves Through the Injection Tube
Inside the quill, a narrow tube guides the chemical toward the pipeline. This injection tube is designed to reach near the center of the main flow. Positioning the tip in the center allows faster mixing and reduces damage to the pipe walls.
4. Nozzle Releases the Chemical
At the end of the injection tube is a nozzle or open tip. The chemical exits the quill through this point and enters the flowing fluid inside the pipeline. The pressure from the feed system ensures continuous flow during injection.
5. Chemical Mixes With Main Flow
Once released, the chemical mixes with the main fluid. Because the nozzle reaches the center of the pipe, the chemical spreads more evenly. This ensures proper contact and reaction within the system.
Core Components Supporting the Working Process
Quill Body
The body holds all other parts in place. It connects the chemical feed line to the injection tube. It also supports the mounting mechanism, which attaches the quill to the pipe.
Injection Tube
The tube extends into the pipe. Its length is set to reach the flow’s center. Some tubes are fixed; others can move in and out for inspection or cleaning.
Check Valve
This valve is a one-way gate. It opens under forward pressure and closes under reverse pressure. This prevents contamination of the chemical feed line.
Nozzle or Open Tip
The nozzle controls the release point of the chemical. Some are designed to improve dispersion or reduce turbulence. The simplest form is a straight open tube.
Mounting Mechanism
This part holds the quill in place on the pipe. It may be threaded or flanged. In some systems, the mounting also allows the quill to be removed without stopping flow.
Pressure and Flow Considerations
The chemical pressure must be higher than the pipeline pressure. This ensures forward flow. The injection angle must match the pipe design. This avoids back pressure and poor mixing. The flow velocity in the pipe affects how quickly the chemical mixes.
Summary
A chemical injection quill works by directing a chemical from a feed line into the center of a flowing fluid inside a pipe. The key steps are:
- The pump sends the chemical into the quill.
- The check valve allows one-way flow.
- The injection tube carries the chemical into the pipeline.
- The nozzle releases the chemical into the main flow.
- The system mixes the chemical for proper treatment.
Each component—pump, check valve, tube, nozzle, and mount—plays a precise role. Together, they make the injection process safe, accurate, and efficient.