Abstract:
A method of deactivating an underwater hydraulic device provides a hydraulic device that is capable of being operated under water, the device having a hydraulic cylinder with a pushrod and a piston. The device is lowered below a water surface with a hose reel that is located at the water surface area such as on a marine vessel. The hose reel includes first and second hydraulic hoses that connect to the cylinder on opposing sides of the piston. Fluid flow in the first and second hydraulic hoses is continuously monitored. The ratio of the volume of fluid flowing into the cylinder from one side of the piston to the volume of fluid flowing into the cylinder from the other side of the piston is continuously calculated with a computer or controller. The hydraulic device is deactivated if the ratio varies from a preset value. One embodiment includes a plurality of flow meters for measuring fluid flow to and from one or more hydraulically powered apparatuses. In one embodiment outputs of the flow meters are analyzed to determine if the hydraulic system has a leak, and if a leak is detected, a warning is issued and/or one or more of the connected hydraulically powered apparatuses are shut down, and/or the hydraulic power supply is shut down. In one embodiment, the flow lines are jointed flow lines comprised of hose joints connected end to end. Some or all of the hoses have check valves. In one embodiment, the check valves stop flow in either direction if the flow pressure drops below a selected pressure.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    Priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,618, filed 16 Apr. 2013, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, is hereby claimed. 
         [0002]    Incorporated herein by reference are U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/741,074, filed 14 Jan. 2013, International Patent Application No. PCT/US2013/021457, filed 14 Jan. 2013, U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/586,530, filed 13 Jan. 2012, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/727,324, filed 16 Nov. 2012. 
     
    
     STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
       [0003]    Not applicable 
       REFERENCE TO A “MICROFICHE APPENDIX” 
       [0004]    Not applicable 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0005]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0006]    The present invention relates to devices for controlling a flow line that has ruptured or that is leaking. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and apparatus for deactivating a hydraulic system that uses jointed flow lines equipped with a specially configured check valve in each joint of the jointed flow line. 
         [0007]    2. General Background of the Invention 
         [0008]    In the offshore oil and gas industry, there are certain hydraulic devices that are needed in order to complete jobs in an underwater environment. A hydraulic shear is employed to conduct salvage operations. Such a hydraulic shear is lowered to a seabed area, for example several hundred feet (meters) deep. In this offshore environment, leakage of hydraulic oil has a profoundly disastrous effect on the environment. 
         [0009]    Therefore, there exists a need for a simple and straightforward yet workable solution to the problem of leakage of hydraulic fluid from devices that are used in a marine environment. 
         [0010]    It is not only important that a leak of hydraulic fluid be detected. It is further important that the hydraulic device be immediately disabled so that leakage is limited to a very minimal quantity. 
         [0011]    Patents have issued that relate generally to the detection of leakage. One example is the Brandt patent (U.S. Pat. No. 5,748,077). The Brandt patent (U.S. Pat. No. 5,748,077) shuts down the hydraulic system if the leak is detected and notifies individuals in the area that a leak has occurred. The leak detection system has sensors for measuring hydraulic system parameters and a computer for detecting abnormalities in the system based on values returned by the sensors. Sensors used include an rpm pickup, a pressure transducer, a flow meter and a hydraulic fluid level and temperature switch. Outputs of the sensors are analyzed by the computer to determine if the hydraulic system has a leak. If a leak is detected, the computer sends response signals to a device for engaging or disengaging the prime mover from the hydraulic pump and to another device for actuating a valve to stop hydraulic fluid flow from the reservoir. The computer may also send indicator signals to a display console for activating a warning light, a buzzer or a display. 
         [0012]    The Cass patent (U.S. Pat. No. 4,471,797) provides a hydraulic circuit breaker reset device. The system includes a pump, reservoir and an actuator system. The hydraulic circuit breaker is arranged to compare fluid flow to and from the actuator system and to shut off this flow in the event the flow to the actuator system is greater than the flow returning from the actuator system by more than a predetermined differential, thereby indicating a leakage condition. A hydraulic circuit breaker reset device is hydraulically connected to the actuator system and to the circuit breaker. When the circuit breaker is in a shut off condition, the reset device continuously pressure tests the actuator system. If the pressure in the actuator system increases to indicate the absence of fluid leakage, the reset device responds to the pressure increase in the actuator system to provide a reset signal to the circuit breaker. After the circuit breaker is reset to its normal operating position, a timing piston returns the reset device to its normal operating condition. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0013]    In one embodiment, the present invention can employ a plurality of hose sections (e.g. 50 ft. (15.24 m) sections) with less than 2.5 gallons (9.46 liters) of total contents within each section. The primary design is to have a check type valve that holds the contents of the hose when there is a breach within any part of the hose, upon hydraulic power unit or “HPU” shutdown. 
         [0014]    A specially configured connector joins each hose joint to another hose joint with a threaded connection. The connector contains a specially configured check valve arrangement. The connector is preferably about equal in size to the current connection not to cause any change in function externally due to the fact it has to be spooled up on a hose reel. 
         [0015]    The valve of the present invention employs springs that work against each other on a shaft with a plunger or piston in the middle. The springs can be calibrated to a selected pressure flow value. When the flow pushes the plunger or piston in one direction, a circular disk part of the plunger or piston moves to one side of an annular sealing surface and compresses a first spring allowing the flow to pass by the central disk. 
         [0016]    When the flow changes direction, the plunger accommodates by moving to the other side of the valve bode compressing the opposing or second spring and allows flow in the other direction, when the flow stops the valve centers due to the equal amount of spring tension and shuts on a sealing area for the plunger. 
         [0017]    There is a slight increase of system pressure when using these specially configured check valves of the present invention. For example, if a hydraulic system has two runs of 475 foot (145 m) hose that are one inch (2.54 cm) diameter hose with nine joints of hose, there would be an about 200 psi (1379 kPa) increase in operating pressure. 
         [0018]    This method can be used with or without a separate spill mitigation system. The reaction time of a particular human operator can directly affect the amount of hydraulic fluid that is spilled. A computer controlled spill mitigation system can be more consistent and reliable than a human operator. 
         [0019]    The present invention includes a method of deactivating an underwater hydraulic device. The method provides a hydraulic device that is capable of being operated under water, the device can have a hydraulic cylinder with a pushrod and a piston. The device can be lowered below a water surface with a hose reel that is located at the water surface area. The hose reel can include first and second hydraulic hoses that connect to the cylinder on opposing sides of the piston. The method includes intermittently monitoring fluid flow in the first and second hydraulic hoses. The method further includes calculating the ratio of the volume of fluid flowing into the cylinder from one side of the piston to the volume of fluid flowing into the cylinder from the other side of the piston. The method of the present invention further includes deactivating the hydraulic device if the ratio varies from a preset ratio or preset value. The hoses can be a plurality of joints, wherein a plurality of said joints house a check valve. 
         [0020]    Preferably, the device can be a hydraulic shear. 
         [0021]    Preferably, the flow can be measured with first and second flow meters, one flow meter monitoring fluid flow in the first hydraulic hose, the other flow meter monitoring flow in the second hydraulic hose. 
         [0022]    Preferably, the hydraulic device can receive hydraulic fluid under pressure from a prime mover and hydraulic pump assembly and the prime mover and pump assembly can be deactivated. 
         [0023]    Preferably, the prime mover can be deactivated. 
         [0024]    Preferably, the prime mover can include an engine and the engine can be shut off. 
         [0025]    Preferably, a controller can continuously monitor flow in the flow meters and continuously calculates the ratio. 
         [0026]    Preferably, the present invention further comprises providing a selector switch having multiple selectable switch positions and wherein the ratio can be varied by selecting a different position of the selector switch. 
         [0027]    Preferably, the computer can use a different ratio depending upon which switch position is selected and the dimensions of the cylinder and pushrod of the selected device. 
         [0028]    Preferably, the volumes can be automatically calculated. 
         [0029]    The present invention includes a method of deactivating a hydraulic device. The method provides a hydraulic device having a cylinder with a pushrod and a piston, the device receiving flow from a jointed flow line. The flow line can include first and second hydraulic jointed hoses that connect to the cylinder on opposing sides of the piston. The method further includes intermittently monitoring fluid flow in the first and second hydraulic hoses. The method further includes continuously comparing the volume of fluid that enters a pushrod retraction chamber section of the cylinder with a pushrod extension section of the cylinder. The method further includes deactivating the hydraulic device if the ratio varies from a preset value. The hoses can be a plurality of hose joints, wherein a plurality of said hose joints are connected together end to end with connectors that each house a check valve. 
         [0030]    Preferably, the flow can be measured with first and second flow meters, one flow meter monitoring fluid flow in the first hydraulic hose, the other flow meter monitoring flow in the second hydraulic hose. 
         [0031]    Preferably, the hydraulic device receives hydraulic fluid under pressure from a prime mover and hydraulic pump assembly and the prime mover and pump assembly is deactivated. 
         [0032]    Preferably, the prime mover can be an engine and the engine can be shut off. 
         [0033]    Preferably, a controller can continuously monitor flow in the flow meters and continuously calculates the ratio. 
         [0034]    Preferably, the present invention further comprises providing a selector switch having multiple selectable switch positions and wherein the ratio can be varied by selecting a different position of the selector switch. 
         [0035]    The present invention includes a hydraulic leak detection apparatus. The apparatus of the present invention can include a hydraulic device that can be operated with a prime mover, pump, and hydraulic cylinder having a cylinder, a pushrod, and a piston. The cylinder can have a first chamber that is receptive of hydraulic fluid when extending the pushrod and a second chamber that is receptive of hydraulic fluid when retracting the pushrod. A first hydraulic flow line can supply hydraulic fluid to the first chamber. A second hydraulic flow line can supply hydraulic fluid to the second chamber. At least one of said flow lines can be comprised of separate lengths of hose connected end to end. A computer can continuously monitor the ratio of the volume of fluid entering the first chamber to the volume of fluid entering the second chamber. The computer can operatively connect to the prime mover so that the computer can deactivate the prime mover when the ratio varies from a preset acceptable value of said ratio. At least one of the hydraulic flow lines can be comprised of a plurality of hose joints that are joined together with connectors that each contain a check valve. 
         [0036]    Preferably, the hydraulic device can be a power tong. 
         [0037]    Preferably, each of said first and second flow lines can have a flow meter interfaced with said computer so that the flow meters continuously transmit flow data to the computer. 
         [0038]    Preferably, the present invention further comprises a selector switch that enables the computer to compare the said ratio with a selected one of a plurality of ratios, each ratio of the plurality of ratios corresponding to different hydraulic cylinder configurations. 
         [0039]    Preferably, the present invention further comprises a selector switch that enables the computer to compare the said ratio with a selected one of a plurality of ratios, each ratio of the plurality of ratios corresponding to different hydraulic cylinder dimensions. 
         [0040]    Preferably, the computer can be programmable to designate any ratio as the acceptable value. 
         [0041]    Preferably, the acceptable value can be a range. 
         [0042]    Preferably, further comprises a hose reel that enables the device to be lowered to a sea bed area. 
         [0043]    Preferably, multiple hydraulic flow lines can be part of the hose reel. 
         [0044]    Preferably, each of said first and second hydraulic hoses can have a flow meter interfaced with a computer or controller so that the flow meters continuously transmit flow data to the computer. 
         [0045]    Preferably, each flow meter can be in a said hydraulic hose in between the hose reel and the device. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0046]    For a further understanding of the nature, objects, and advantages of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements and wherein: 
           [0047]      FIG. 1  is a partial elevation view of a preferred embodiment of the momentum controller; 
           [0048]      FIG. 2  is a sectional view taken along lines  2 - 2  of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0049]      FIG. 3  is a partial sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; 
           [0050]      FIG. 4  is a partial sectional view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; 
           [0051]      FIG. 5  is a sectional view taken along lines  5 - 5  of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0052]      FIGS. 5A and 5B  are fragmentary views of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; 
           [0053]      FIG. 6  is a sectional view taken along lines  6 - 6  of  FIG. 2 ; 
           [0054]      FIG. 7  is a side, partially cut away view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; 
           [0055]      FIG. 8  is a side, partially cut away view of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention; 
           [0056]      FIGS. 9A and 9B  provide a schematic diagram of a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention wherein lines A-A of  FIGS. 9A and 9B  are match lines; and 
           [0057]      FIG. 10  is a schematic diagram of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein lines A-A of  FIGS. 10 and 9B  are match lines. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0058]      FIGS. 9A and 9B  show a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, designated generally by the numeral  10 . In  FIG. 9A , hydraulic power is provided with a hydraulic power unit or HPU which is designated generally by the numeral  17 . Hydraulic power unit  17  includes a prime mover  20  which can be for example a diesel engine ( 20 ) or electric motor  44  (as seen in  FIG. 10 ). The prime mover  20  powers a pump  21  which can be a compensating pump. Such compensating pumps are commercially available (e.g. from Linde Hydraulics (www.lindeamerica.com)). The pump  21  receives hydraulic fluid from reservoir  22  and flow line  27 . A case drain line or recycle line  24  is provided for bypassing the hose reel  40  which is a condition that can occur with such a compensating pump  21  in some situations. Fuel is provided for the hydraulic power unit  17 , for example tank  23  which can be a diesel fuel tank for supplying diesel fuel via flow line  65  with valve  64  to prime mover/diesel engine  20 . Pump  21  has a discharge flow line  25  which is a pressure line that communicates with hydraulic control valve  54 . Hydraulic control valve  54  has a lever or operator handle  69  that is used to operate an implement  11  (e.g., cutter  11 ) such as to either open or close the jaw  30  of implement or shear  11 . In  FIG. 9B , the lever or handle  69  is in a position that transmits fluid to lines  31 ,  32  so that jaw  30  is opened. The lever or handle  69  can be moved to a position (see dotted lines in  FIG. 9B ) that transmits fluid to lines  31 ,  32  so that jaw  30  is closed. Valve  54  is commercially available such as from Hawe North America, Inc. of Charlotte, N.C. 
         [0059]    From control station  29 , the line  31  exits to supply pressurized hydraulic fluid to hose reel  40 . A first flow meter  45  is placed in flow line  31  or at the junction of flow lines  25 ,  31  as shown in  FIGS. 9A-9B . 
         [0060]    Line  32  also receives flow from control station  29  to communicate with hose reel  40 . The flow line  32  carries a second flow meter  46 . Return flow is able to travel from the hose reel  40  to the flow line  32  through the flow meter  46  and then to the control station  29 . From the control station  29 , the flow in line  32  communicates with the return line  26  for returning fluid to hydraulic tank or reservoir  22 . Flow meters  45 ,  46  can be commercially available CT Series flow meters from Webster Instruments of Milwaukee, Wis. 
         [0061]    The hose reel  40  provides flow lines  41 ,  42  which enable a hydraulic cylinder on implement  11  to either open jaw  30  or close jaw  30  by either extending a pushrod or retracting the pushrod. This is accomplished by connecting one flow line  41  to hydraulic cylinder on one side of a piston (that is on implement  11  and that operates jaw  30 ) and by connecting the other flow line  42  to the hydraulic cylinder on the other side of the piston. 
         [0062]    The prime mover can be either an engine  20  or an electric motor  44  (see  FIG. 10 ). The engine  20  (e.g., diesel) is provided with a battery  71  for starting the engine  20 . The battery  71  also provides positive and negative leads  72 ,  73  that communicate with control station or controller  29  as shown in  FIGS. 9A-9B . The control station  29  can include a commercially available computer or controller  33  such as a Model Plus 1 from Sauer Danfoss such as Model No. MC024-010 or MC024-012. 
         [0063]    The computer or controller  33  is part of the control station  29 . The control station  29  can provide a key switch for enabling the control station  29  to be activated or deactivated. A rotary cam switch  74  can be provided to pre-program controller  33  for a number of different configurations (e.g., dimensional changes) of cylinder, pushrod and chamber sections of hydraulic cylinder of implement  11 . The cam switch  74  enables an operator to dial in or select a particular hydraulic cylinder by selecting a pre-programmed cam switch position. Such a rotary cam switch is commercially available from Control Switches International, Inc. 
         [0064]    A start button  75  can be provided for enabling use of control station  29 . Lamps  76 ,  77  can be provided to indicate whether or not the control station  29  has been activated or is deactivated. For the diesel engine  20 , a valve (e.g., solenoid operated valve)  64  is provided in flow line  65  which supplies diesel fuel from tank  23  to engine  20 . This solenoid operated valve  64  is closed in a situation where a leak is detected (e.g., see leakage/damage at  70  in  FIG. 8 ). In alternate embodiment  10 A seen in  FIG. 10 , for an electric motor  44  (as prime mover), a solenoid operated switch  78  is provided. The switch  78  deactivates the electric motor  44  if a leak situation is detected. For each of the diesel engine  20  (or electric motor  44 ), a cooler  67  can be provided in the flow line  24  as shown. 
         [0065]    In one embodiment, the method and apparatus can be provided with a display which may include a leak detection visual and/or audible alarm. A display console can be provided for controller  33  which can include a selector or cam switch  74 , on-off button  75 , indicator lamps  76  and  77 , along with default program button. Controller  33  can be operatively connected to a computer (e.g., a notebook computer) for programming operating values into controller  33  regarding its operations. 
         [0066]      FIGS. 9A and 9B  provide schematic block diagrams of leak detection system  10  connected to two hydraulic systems—(a) hydraulic shears  11  and (b) the reel drive motor  38  for hose reel  40 . Leak detection system  10  can detect undesirable conditions in one or both of these two connected hydraulic systems. 
         [0067]    A plurality of flow meters  45  and  46  can be used to measure flow to and from the monitored hydraulic systems (e.g., shears  11  and reel drive motor  38 ). The flow meter  45  sends a signal to controller  33  which is proportional to the rate of fluid flow in flow line  31 . The flow meter  46  sends a signal to controller  33  which is proportional to the rate of fluid flow in flow line  32 . 
       Pre-Leak Detection Testing 
       [0068]    Leak detection  10  system can go through various pre-leak detection monitoring checks which are designed to ensure that the connected hydraulic systems (e.g., shears  11  and reel drive motor  38 ) are operating correctly. In one embodiment leak detection system  10  will shut off hydraulic power to the hydraulic pump  21  if one or more pre-monitoring exceptions are found. 
         [0069]    Pre-monitoring exceptions can include, but are not limited to:
       (a) powering hydraulic pump  21  not operating such as not rotating between a predefined rotational range;   (b) the level of hydraulic fluid in reservoir tank  22  not being above a predefined reservoir tank level;   (c) the pressure in flow line  31  not being above a predefined pressure for such flow line;   (d) the pressure in flow line  32  not being above a predefined pressure for such flow line;   (e) the pressure in flow line  41  not being above a predefined pressure for such flow line; and   (f) the pressure in flow line  42  not being above a predefined pressure for such flow line.
 
If one or more of the above pre-monitoring exceptions are found, leak detection system  10  can turn off power to pump  21 , and issue a warning signal indicating the identification of a pre-monitoring exception. The pressure exerted by the hydraulic fluid can be monitored by pressure transducers in flow lines  31 ,  32 ,  41 , and  42 .
       
 
         [0076]    If an exception condition is found, including satisfaction of the time periods for existence of such exception, the leak detection system  10  shuts down the identified leaking hydraulic system (e.g., shears  11  and/or reel drive motor  38 ). Shutting down a hydraulic system can include shutting off the flow of hydraulic fluid from the reservoir tank  22  to pump  21  and shutting off power to pump  21 . The hydraulic fluid flow can be shut off at reservoir tank  22  by turning a valve in line  27  to a closed position. 
         [0077]    If a leaking exception condition satisfying leaking parameters has been found, the leaking hydraulic system (e.g., shears  11  or reel drive motor  38 ) causing the leaking event to be identified may be shut down and the indicator or display signals are sent to console to warn that a leaking event has been identified. Leak detected light  76  or  77  can be provided and turned on and optionally an auditory alarm can also be issued. 
       Leak Detection Monitoring 
       [0078]    In one embodiment, following the completion of the various pre-leak detection monitoring checks, leak detection system  10  can monitor one or both connected hydraulic systems (shears  11  and/or reel drive motor  38 ) by monitoring flow though flow meters  45  and  46  and comparing such monitored flow to certain predefined flow amounts for the particular hydraulic system being monitored. 
         [0079]    In one embodiment leak detection system  10  provides a predefined startup period of time from activation of a hydraulic system to beginning of monitoring operations of flow meters  45  and  46 . Such predefined start up period of time allows the monitored hydraulic system time to stabilize before leak detection system  10  begins looking for leaking exceptions in monitoring conditions. In one embodiment such predefined start up period of time can be at least about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and/or 50 seconds. In various embodiments such predefined period of time can be a range between any two of the specified time periods. 
         [0080]    Exceptions for leak detection can be identified by leak detection system  10  where a measured parameter falls outside of the predefined allowed ranged for such measured parameter. Additionally, preferably leak detection system  10  requires that the exception be present for a predetermined period of time before considering that an identified leaking exception is considered a leaking event and acting accordingly, such as by shutting down pump  21  and/or the hydraulic system (e.g., shears  11  or reel drive motor  38 ) causing the identified leaking exception to be present. 
       Frequency of Sampling Flow Meter Readings 
       [0081]    In one embodiment leak detection system  10  can be user programmed regarding the frequency of sampling of which the system accepts signals from the plurality of flow meters  45  and  46 . Although “continuous” is used in this specification it is anticipated that, in any given time period, only a finite number sampling of measurements can be taken by leak detection system  10 . 
         [0082]    In various embodiments embodiment sampling rates can be at least 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 120, 150, 200, 300, 500, 1000, 2000, or 3000 Hertz. In various embodiments sampling rates can be a range between any two of the specified sampling rates. 
       Time Period for Existence of Leaking Exception 
       [0083]    In one embodiment leak detection system  10  responds or reacts rapidly to an identified leaking event, such as by shutting off power to pump  21  along with shutting off fluid flow from reservoir  22  to pump  21 . With the occurrence of such an event, leak detection system  10  can also issue a warning signal such as be lighting lamp  76  or lamp  77 , along with possibly issuing a audible warning signal such as a siren. 
         [0084]    In one embodiment, after a leaking event is determined, leak detection system  10  will shut down the flagged hydraulic system (shears  11  or reel drive motor  38 ). This can occur after determining a leaking exception exists for a predetermined time. In one embodiment such predefined period of time that the leaking exception must exist before a leaking event can be identified, can be at least about 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50, and/or 60 seconds. In various embodiments such predefined period of time can be a range between any two of the specified time periods. In various embodiments the user can program this predefined period of time and/or range into leak detection system  10 . 
       Programming Based on Actual Operating Conditions of Hydraulic Systems in a Non-Leaking Condition 
       [0085]    In one embodiment benchmark conditions in known non-leaking conditions to be expected when taking sampling measurements can be automatically programmed into the method and apparatus. In one embodiment predefined exception conditions can be programmed into leak detection system  10  based on actual operating conditions of the hydraulic system being monitored (e.g., shears  11  and/or reel drive motor  38 ). In one embodiment, the default predefined button can be provided in leak detection system  10 , and a method of programming predefined conditions for flow meters  45  and  46  can be as follows: 
         [0086]    (1) Shear System 
         [0087]    With hydraulic shear system  11 , hydraulic power can be supplied by pump  21  though lines  31  and  32  which respectively flow through lines  41  and  42 . The ratio of flow measured by flow meter  45  to compared to flow meter  46  (or vice versa) can be calculated by controller  33  and such ratio be set in the method and apparatus as the ideal predefined ratio in a non-leaking condition. 
         [0088]    For any particular movement of the piston inside of the hydraulic cylinder of implement  11 , the amount of hydraulic fluid entering/leaving one chamber is less than the amount of hydraulic fluid entering/leaving the other chamber. The difference is a result of the pushrod taking up part of the volume of one chamber section. Although not expected to be a 1:1 ratio, because the pushrod has a substantially uniform cross sectional area the ratio of the amount of fluid exchange between the two chamber sections is expected to be constant regardless of the position of piston in the cylinder. In a preferred embodiment the ratio can be 1:2.28 and measured variations from this ratio can be used by leak detection system  10  to identify leaking exceptions for shear  11  and, if such identified leaking exception persists, a leaking event for shear  11 . 
         [0089]    (2) Driving Motor for Hose Reel 
         [0090]    For reel drive motor  38  hydraulic power can be supplied by pump  21  though lines  31  and  32  which power reel drive motor  38  to outlay or take up lines  41  and  42 . The ratio of flow measured by flow meter  45  to  46  can be calculated by controller  33  and such ratio be set as a predefined ratio in a non-leaking condition. However, this ratio in a non-leaking situation is expected to be 1:1 and this step can be omitted for programming the leak detection parameters for reel drive motor  38 . 
         [0091]    Unlike shears  11 , reel drive motor  38  operably connected to hose reel  40  (and rotating reel  40  to outlet and take up of flow lines  41  and  42 ) will have input and output lines which, in a non-leaking condition, are expected to have a 1:1 ratio of hydraulic fluid entering and exiting driving motor  38 . 
       Use of Physical Dimensional Parameters to Calculate Predefined Ratios 
       [0092]    For any particular movement of the piston inside of the hydraulic cylinder, the amount of hydraulic fluid entering/leaving one chamber section is less than the amount of hydraulic fluid entering/leaving the chamber section. The difference is a result of the pushrod taking up part of the volume of chamber section. Although not expected to be a 1:1 ratio, because the pushrod has a substantially uniform cross sectional area the ratio of the amount of fluid exchange between the two chamber sections is expected to be constant regardless of the position of the piston in the cylinder. In a preferred embodiment the ratio can be 1:2.28 and measured variations from this ratio can be used by leak detection system  10  to identify leaking exceptions for shear  11  and, if such identified leaking exception persists, a leaking event for shear  11 . 
         [0093]    In one embodiment, where the push rod has a diameter D r  and the piston has a diameter D P  the ratio between the two flow rates will be the same as the ratio of the cross sectional areas on either side of the piston, and can be calculated by the formula: 
         [0000]    
       
         
           
             
               [ 
               
                 
                   D 
                   p 
                   2 
                 
                 - 
                 
                   D 
                   r 
                   2 
                 
               
               ] 
             
             
               D 
               p 
               2 
             
           
         
       
     
         [0000]    In this embodiment a user can enter the diameter of the rod “D r ” and the diameter of the piston “D P ” and the method and apparatus can calculate the ideal predefined ratio in a non-leaking condition from which allowable variations can be looked for by the method and apparatus.
 
Customizing Allowable Variations from Predefined Non-Leaking Ratios
 
         [0094]    In various embodiments a user can custom program leak detection system  10  to allow a variation of a selected amount from the predefined ratio in a non-leaking condition for either the hydraulic shear system  11  and/or reel drive motor  38 . In various embodiments such can be a symmetrical variation from the initial predefined ratio and can be an allowable percentage variation from the initial predefined ratio. In various embodiments this allowable percentage can be at least about 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and/or 50 percent. In various embodiments such exception variations can differ from variations above compared to variations below the user selected value in a non-leaking condition (e.g., the initial predefined ratio). 
         [0095]    In various embodiments the lower limit can be one of the specified allowable variations, and the upper limit can be a different one of the specified allowable variations. 
         [0096]    In various embodiments such user selected predefined parameters may be changed from time to time as the user desires. 
         [0097]    At different points in time the user can use the default program button to calculate another predefined ratio for either hydraulic system (shear  11  or drive motor  38 ) as either hydraulic system&#39;s non-leaking characteristics may change over time. In one embodiment such predefined variations can be numerically entered into controller  33  by a computer. 
         [0098]    As disclosed herein it is anticipated that leak detection system  10  can have programmed multiple sets of ratios for flow in flow meters  45  and  46  based on the different hydraulic systems which flow meters  45  and  46  are measuring flow in relation to. For example, when reel drive motor  38  is operating to lay out or take up hoses  41  and  42  (respectively lowering or raising shears  11 ), hydraulic shears  11  will not be operating. Accordingly, the values programmed for reel drive motor  38  are used by leak detection system  10 . 
       Catastrophic Leak Detection Testing 
       [0099]    During operations, leak detection system  10  system can go through various checks for catastrophic leaking events which are designed to ensure that the connected hydraulic systems (e.g., shears  11  and reel drive motor  38 ) do not suffer a catastrophic leaking event. In one embodiment leak detection system  10  will shut off hydraulic power to the hydraulic pump  21  and/or hydraulic systems if one or more pre-monitoring exceptions are found. 
         [0100]    Catastrophic monitoring exceptions can include, but are not limited to:
       (a) no flow read by flow meter  45  while flow is read by flow meter  46 ;   (b) no flow read by flow meter  46  while flow is read by flow meter  45 ;   (c) the pressure in flow line  31  not being above a predefined pressure for such flow line;   (d) the pressure in flow line  32  not being above a predefined pressure for such flow line;   (e) the pressure in flow line  41  not being above a predefined pressure for such flow line; and   (f) the pressure in flow line  42  not being above a predefined pressure for such flow line.       
 
         [0107]    If one or more of the above catastrophic leak detection monitoring exceptions are found, leak detection system  10  can turn off power to pump  21 , shut down the hydraulic systems, and issue a warning signal indicating the identification of a catastrophic leak detection event. The pressure exerted by the hydraulic fluid can be monitored by pressure transducers in flow lines  31 ,  32 ,  41 , and  42 . 
         [0108]      FIGS. 1-8  show a specially configured valve to be employed with a preferred embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention. Leak detection system  10  employs a specially configured valve assembly or valve  12  which also can function as a connector to connect one joint of hose  13  to another joint of hose  14  as seen in  FIGS. 7 and 8 . The valve  12  can have male connector ends  57 ,  58  that each connect to a female connector end on a joint of hose  13  or  14 . Once so configured, the joints of hose  13 ,  14  can be connected end to end to make up a long hose run of for example 300-500 feet (91-152 m) or more. Connector ends  57 ,  58  could be both male as shown, both female, or one male and one female, for example. 
         [0109]    In  FIGS. 1-8 , valve  12  includes an annular or generally cylindrically shaped or tubular valve body  16  having a central longitudinal flow bore  56 . Valve body  16  can be in three sections  59 ,  60 ,  61  (see  FIGS. 1-4 ). The section  60  is central section. The sections  59 ,  61  are end sections that connect to the central section with a threaded connection. In  FIGS. 2-4 , section  59  connects to section  60  with threaded connection  62 . In  FIG. 2 , section  61  connects to section  60  with threaded connection  62 . 
         [0110]    Plunger or piston  63  is mounted within body  16 , attached to a pair of spaced apart flow through disks  19 ,  28  (see  FIGS. 5A ,  5 B). Each disk  19 ,  28  has a central opening  79  and a plurality of circumferentially extending arcuate openings  80 ,  81 ,  82  as seen in  FIGS. 5 ,  5 A,  5 B. Piston or plunger  63  has a rod or shaft  87  that extends through the opening  79  of disks  19  and also through the opening  79  of disk  28  as seen in  FIGS. 2-4 . Disk  66  is mounted on rod  87 . Springs  83 ,  84  normally center disk  66  upon annular or cylindrically shaped sealing surface  49 . Beveled annular surfaces or inclined sections  47 ,  48  can be provided on opposing sides of sealing surface  49  as seen in  FIG. 2 . Spring  83  is positioned in between disk  66  of plunger/piston  63  and disk  19  which is anchored to valve body  16  between sections  59  and  60  (see  FIGS. 3-4 ). Spring  84  is positioned in between disk  66  of plunger/piston  63  and disk  28  which is anchored to valve body  16  between sections  60  and  61  (see  FIGS. 3-4 ). 
         [0111]    Disk  66  of piston/plunger  63  has an annular groove  68  fitted with an o-ring  85 . When o-ring  85  registers upon annular surface/sealing surface  49 , flow through valve body  16  bore  56  is halted. Springs  83 ,  84  are calibrated so that if a selected flow pressure value is overcome, the piston or plunger  63  moves toward a disk  19  or  28  and the plunger/piston leaves sealing surface  49  to open the flow. Thus, if a leak occurs in any length or joint of hose (e.g.,  13  or  14  or  41  or  42 ) the pressure will drop below the preselected pressure value and wherein the springs  83 ,  84  center disk  66  on sealing surface  49  to close flow and stop any further leakage. 
         [0112]    The hydraulic control system of the present invention provides a valve arrangement that works in two directions. Flow from either direction of hose joint  13  or  14  will open the valve bore  56  as long as sufficient pressure is available to overcome spring pressure. Conversely, in the event of leakage a pressure drop below a preset minimum pressure value will enable springs  83 ,  84  to center disk  66  on sealing surface  49  to halt flow.  FIG. 7  shows position of piston  63  if no damage has occurred. In  FIG. 3 , arrows  55  show normal flow that overcomes and compresses spring  84 . In  FIG. 4 , arrows  86  show normal flow that overcomes spring  83 .  FIG. 8  shows damage and leakage  70  in line  13 . Pressure in hose bore  15  drops as a result of the leak at  70 . Springs  83 ,  84  center piston  63  is seen in  FIG. 8 . 
         [0113]    Incorporated herein by reference are U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/741,074, filed 14 Jan. 2013, and International Patent Application No. PCT/US 13/21457, filed 14 Jan. 2013. The present invention is preferably used with the inventions disclosed therein. 
         [0114]    The following is a list of parts and materials suitable for use in the present invention: 
         [0000]    
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 PARTS LIST: 
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 PART NUMBER 
                 DESCRIPTION 
               
               
                   
                   
               
               
                   
                 10 
                 hydraulic spill control apparatus 
               
               
                   
                 10A 
                 hydraulic spill control apparatus 
               
               
                   
                 11 
                 implement/shear 
               
               
                   
                 12 
                 valve assembly/valve 
               
               
                   
                 13 
                 hose joint with damage and leakage 
               
               
                   
                 14 
                 hose joint 
               
               
                   
                 15 
                 hose bore 
               
               
                   
                 16 
                 valve body 
               
               
                   
                 17 
                 hydraulic power unit 
               
               
                   
                 19 
                 flow through disk 
               
               
                   
                 20 
                 prime mover/engine 
               
               
                   
                 21 
                 pump 
               
               
                   
                 22 
                 reservoir/hydraulic fluid 
               
               
                   
                 23 
                 fuel tank 
               
               
                   
                 24 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 25 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 26 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 27 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 28 
                 flow through disk 
               
               
                   
                 29 
                 control station 
               
               
                   
                 30 
                 jaw 
               
               
                   
                 31 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 32 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 33 
                 controller/computer 
               
               
                   
                 38 
                 hose reel motor 
               
               
                   
                 40 
                 hose reel 
               
               
                   
                 41 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 42 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 43 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 44 
                 electric motor 
               
               
                   
                 45 
                 flow meter 
               
               
                   
                 46 
                 flow meter 
               
               
                   
                 47 
                 inclined section 
               
               
                   
                 48 
                 inclined section 
               
               
                   
                 49 
                 annular surface/sealing surface 
               
               
                   
                 54 
                 control valve 
               
               
                   
                 55 
                 arrow 
               
               
                   
                 56 
                 flow bore 
               
               
                   
                 57 
                 connector end 
               
               
                   
                 58 
                 connector end 
               
               
                   
                 59 
                 section 
               
               
                   
                 60 
                 section 
               
               
                   
                 61 
                 section 
               
               
                   
                 62 
                 threaded connection 
               
               
                   
                 63 
                 plunger/piston 
               
               
                   
                 64 
                 solenoid operated valve/valve 
               
               
                   
                 65 
                 flow line 
               
               
                   
                 66 
                 disk 
               
               
                   
                 67 
                 cooler 
               
               
                   
                 68 
                 annular groove 
               
               
                   
                 69 
                 lever/handle 
               
               
                   
                 70 
                 leaking/damaged section 
               
               
                   
                 71 
                 battery 
               
               
                   
                 72 
                 positive lead 
               
               
                   
                 73 
                 negative lead 
               
               
                   
                 74 
                 rotary cam switch 
               
               
                   
                 75 
                 start button 
               
               
                   
                 76 
                 lamp 
               
               
                   
                 77 
                 lamp 
               
               
                   
                 78 
                 switch 
               
               
                   
                 79 
                 central opening 
               
               
                   
                 80 
                 arcuate opening 
               
               
                   
                 81 
                 arcuate opening 
               
               
                   
                 82 
                 arcuate opening 
               
               
                   
                 83 
                 spring 
               
               
                   
                 84 
                 spring 
               
               
                   
                 85 
                 O-ring 
               
               
                   
                 86 
                 arrows 
               
               
                   
                 87 
                 rod/shaft 
               
               
                   
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
         [0115]    All measurements disclosed herein are at standard temperature and pressure, at sea level on Earth, unless indicated otherwise. All materials used or intended to be used in a human being are biocompatible, unless indicated otherwise. 
         [0116]    The foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only; the scope of the present invention is to be limited only by the following claims.