Patent Publication Number: US-2023143016-A1

Title: In-pipe inserts for piping systems and related methods

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This patent arises from a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/177,979 (now U.S. Pat. No. 11,565,200), titled “IN-PIPE INSERTS FOR PIPING SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS,” filed on Feb. 17, 2021, which claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/978,190, titled “IN-PIPE INSERTS FOR PIPING SYSTEMS AND RELATED METHODS,” filed Feb. 18, 2020. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/177,979 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/978,190 are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     This disclosure relates generally to piping systems and, more particularly, to in-pipe inserts for piping systems and related methods. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Piping systems are used in many industries to transport fluid between two or more locations. The locations may be relatively close, such as within a plant or factory, or relatively far, such as across a city, a state, or a country. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of an example piping system including an example insert constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. In  FIG.  1   , the pipes of the example piping system are shown as transparent. 
         FIG.  2    is a side view of the example insert of  FIG.  1    being inserted into an example pipe of the example piping system. In  FIG.  2   , the pipes of the example piping system are shown as transparent. 
         FIG.  3    is a side view of the example insert of  FIG.  2    disposed in the example pipe of the example piping system. In  FIG.  3   , the pipes of the example piping system are shown as transparent. 
         FIG.  4    is a perspective view of a first end of the example insert of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  5    is a perspective view of a second end of the example insert of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  6    is a perspective view of an example cap that can be used on an end of an example filter tube of the example insert of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  7    is a perspective view of the example insert of  FIG.  1    without example filter tubes. 
         FIG.  8    is another perspective view of the first end of the example insert of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  9    is another perspective view of the second end of the example insert of  FIG.  1    having an alternative end plate. 
         FIG.  10    is a partial cross-sectional view of an example filter tube of the example insert of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  11    is a side view of the example piping system with the example insert of  FIG.  1    and an example pig. 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of an example piping system including an example insert constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. In  FIG.  12   , the pipes of the example piping system are shown as transparent. 
         FIG.  13    is a flowchart representative of an example method of installing an example insert in an example pipe of an example piping system. 
     
    
    
     The figures are not to scale. Instead, the thickness of the layers or regions may be enlarged in the drawings. In general, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawing(s) and accompanying written description to refer to the same or like parts. 
     Descriptors “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. are used herein when identifying multiple elements or components which may be referred to separately. Unless otherwise specified or understood based on their context of use, such descriptors are not intended to impute any meaning of priority, physical order or arrangement in a list, or ordering in time but are merely used as labels for referring to multiple elements or components separately for ease of understanding the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor “first” may be used to refer to an element in the detailed description, while the same element may be referred to in a claim with a different descriptor such as “second” or “third.” In such instances, it should be understood that such descriptors are used merely for ease of referencing multiple elements or components. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Pipelines or piping systems include one or more pipes to distribute and/or otherwise transfer fluid between two or more locations. Piping systems are used throughout the U.S. to distribute certain fluids, such as natural gas, water, etc. Piping systems are also used in industrial and manufacturing facilities. Filters and other devices are often connected to a pipe or between two pipes in the piping system to perform a particular function. For example, a filter may be externally coupled to a pipe or between two pipes to help remove contaminates and other unwanted particulate from the fluid. These known filters are disposed within casings that are constructed of relatively thick, robust material to withstand the relatively large pressures in the piping system. As a result, these known filters are heavy and costly to manufacture and install. 
     Disclosed herein are example in-pipe inserts, such as filter inserts, that can be disposed (e.g., placed, positioned, removably positioned, etc.) within a pipe of a piping system. The inserts may also be referred to as pipe-in-process inserts. The pipes of the piping system are constructed to withstand the pressures of the fluid. The example inserts and techniques disclosed herein leverage this existing structure. As such, the example inserts and techniques disclosed herein do not require the manufacture of large casings or require complicated installations. Instead, the example inserts can be easily inserted into a section of the pipe. In some examples, an insert can be disposed in a pig launcher or receiver barrel used to launch and/or receive pigs. Pigs are pipeline inspection gauges or pipeline intervention devices, commonly referred to as pigs, PIGs, or scrapers. Pigs can be used for various functions. 
     Turning to the figures,  FIG.  1    illustrates an example insert  100  constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. The insert  100  is shown in connection with an example piping system  102 . The piping system  102  can be a current or existing piping system, or can be a newly manufactured and/or installed piping system. The piping system  102  can include one or more interconnected pipes, sometimes referred to as a pipeline. Only a portion of the piping system  102  is shown in  FIG.  1   . The piping system  102  can be used to transport any type of fluid. For example, the piping system  102  can be a natural gas piping system that is used to transport natural gas. In other examples, the piping system  102  can be used to transport other fluids, such as water, crude oil, etc. All or a portion of the piping system  102  can be disposed below ground or above ground. 
     In the illustrated example, the piping system  102  includes a first pipe  104  and a second pipe  106  forming a joint  107 . The first and second pipes  104 ,  106  are shown as transparent in  FIG.  1    to expose the insert  100 . Only portions of the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  are shown in  FIG.  1   . It is understood that the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  can extend any distance or length away from the joint  107  shown in  FIG.  1   . In some examples, the joint  107  is part of a trap or launcher/receiver barrel used to launch and/or receive pig equipment and tools. 
     In the illustrated example, the first pipe  104  has an end  108  with an opening  110 . The opening  110  is covered or sealed with a cap  112  (e.g., a lid, a plate, a trap door, etc.) coupled to the end  108 . In some examples, the cap  112  is connected to the end  108  of the first pipe  104  via threaded fasteners (e.g., bolts). In other examples, the cap  112  can be connected to the end  108  via other manners. The second pipe  106  is coupled to the first pipe  104  at an opening  114  formed in a side of the first pipe  104  near the end  108 . In this example, the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  form a 90° turn or bend. In other examples, the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  can be connected at a different angle. 
     In some examples, the first pipe  104  is connected to an upstream supply source, and the second pipe  106  is connected to a downstream location. In such an example, fluid flows from the first pipe  104 , through the opening  114 , and then into the second pipe  106 . In other examples, fluid can flow in the reverse direction (i.e., from the second pipe  106  to the first pipe  104 ). The piping system  102  can be constructed to accommodate any flow rate (e.g., 450 barrels per hour (bph), 700 bph, 1200 bph, etc.) and any pressure (e.g., 200 pounds-per-square-inch (psi), 475 psi, 1500 psi, etc.). 
     In some examples, the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  are separate pipes that are coupled together. For example, the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  can be coupled via welding and/or fasteners. In other examples, the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  can be constructed as a single unitary part or component. The first and second pipes  104 ,  106  can be constructed of any material suitable for containing the fluid within the piping system  102 . For example, if the fluid is natural gas, the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  can be constructed of carbon steel. As another example, if the fluid is crude oil, the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  can be constructed of steel or plastic. The first and second pipes  104 ,  106  can be any diameter, such as 6 inches diameter nominal (DN), 12 inches DN, 2 feet DN, etc. 
     In this example, the insert  100  is a filter insert, referred to hereinafter as the filter insert  100 . The filter insert  100  is used to filter contaminates and/or other unwanted particulate from the fluid as the fluid flows through the piping system  102 . In other examples, the insert  100  can be implemented as another type of device. For example, other types of insert devices can include separator inserts, dehydrator inserts, combo inserts, debris shield inserts, and mist eliminator inserts. 
     In the illustrated example, the filter insert  100  is disposed in the first pipe  104  near the end  108  of the first pipe  104 . In some examples, the area at or near the end  108  of the first pipe  104  is referred to as a trap. In some examples, the joint  107  having the trap is disposed above ground, while other portions of the piping system  102  are disposed below ground. The insert  100  can be inserted in the first pipe  104  via the opening  110  in the end  108  of the first pipe  104 . For example, referring briefly to  FIG.  2   , the cap  112  can be removed from the end  108  of the first pipe  104 . Then, the filter insert  100  can be inserted into the opening  110  in the end  108  of the first pipe  104 , as shown by the direction of the arrow in  FIG.  2   . Then, the cap  112  can be reconnected to the end  108  of the first pipe  104 , as shown in  FIG.  3   . To remove the filter insert  100 , this example sequence can be performed in reverse. Having the filter insert  100  at or near the end  108  of the first pipe  104  enables easy access to the insert  100 . However, in other examples, the insert  100  can be disposed in another location of a pipe, not near an end of the pipe. 
     Referring back to  FIG.  1   , when the filter insert  100  is installed in the first pipe  104 , the filter insert  100  extends beyond the opening  114  in the first pipe  104 . As such, fluid flows from the first pipe  104 , through the filter insert  100 , and through the opening  114  into the second pipe  106  (or vice versa). As disclosed above, the first and second pipes  104 ,  106  are constructed to withstand the pressures of the fluid within the piping system  102 . As such, the filter insert  100  utilizes the existing structure (e.g., the first pipe  104 ) as a casing or housing for the filter insert. Therefore, the example filter insert  100  does not require a separate housing or structure to be coupled externally to the pipe or between two pipes as in known devices. 
     In some examples, the filter insert  100  includes one or more filter elements. In this example, the filter insert  100  includes a set of filter tubes  116  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  1   ). In some examples, the filter insert  100  includes five filter tubes  116 . In other examples, the filter insert  100  can include more or fewer filter tubes (e.g., one, two, three, four, six, seven, etc.). The filter tubes  116  can be constructed of any type of material. In some examples, the filter tubes  116  are constructed of pleated filter material. In other examples, the filter tubes  116  can be constructed of other types of material, such as metal. The filter tubes  116  can be configured to filter out debris such as pipe scale, grit, sand, rust, etc., chemicals such as iron sulfide, and/or any other particulate that could cause damage or adverse effects to the downstream locations. Therefore, in this example, the filter tubes  116  provide means for filtering particulate from fluid in the piping system  102 . The filter tubes  116  can be configured to filter out any size particulate. In some examples, the filter tubes  116  can filter out particles of at least 20 microns in size. In other examples, the filter tubes  116  can be designed to filter out particles that are smaller than 20 microns, such as 5 micron particles or smaller. The filter tubes  116  can be designed to filter any size particles depending on the specific application. For example, coarser filter tubes can be used to filter larger particles (e.g., 200 microns, 100 microns, etc.). Finer filter tubes can be used to filter out smaller particles (e.g., 1 micron, 0.1 micron, etc.). In some such examples, the filter tubes  116  create a coalescing effect to pull moisture or other matter. When the filter insert  100  becomes full, the filter insert  100  can be removed and cleaned or replaced with a new filter insert. In some examples, the filter insert  100  is cleaned or replaced when a threshold pressure drop (e.g., 20 psi) occurs across the filter insert  100 . 
     In the illustrated example of  FIG.  1   , the filter insert  100  includes an end plate  118  (which may be referred to as a debris shield). The end plate  118  can be constructed of any material, such as metal (e.g., aluminum, stainless steel, carbon steel, etc.), plastic, etc., and/or any other material that is suitable to be exposed to the fluid in the piping system  102 . The end plate  118  can be used to position the filter tubes  116  in the first pipe  104 . Therefore, in this example, the end plate  118  provides means for positioning the filter tubes  116  in the first pipe  118 . The filter tubes  116  are coupled to and extend from (e.g., are perpendicular to) a first side (labeled in  FIG.  4   ) of the end plate  118 . In the illustrated example of  FIG.  1   , the end plate  118  has a set of openings  120  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  1   ) that correspond with (e.g., are aligned with) openings in the ends of the filter tubes  116 . In particular, the filter tubes  116  have respective channels (one of which is shown in  FIG.  10   ) that are aligned with respective ones of the openings  120 . The end plate  118  is sized to substantially fill the first pipe  104  when the insert is disposed in the first pipe  104 . As such, the fluid is forced to flow through the openings  120  in the end plate  118  rather than around the end plate  118 . Assuming the fluid flows from the first pipe  104 , the fluid flows through the openings  120  in the end plate  118  and into the filter tubes  116 . The fluid then flows through the walls of the filter tubes  116  (where filtering occurs) and into the surrounding area in the first pipe  104 . The fluid then flows through the opening  114  and into the second pipe  106 . In some examples, the pressure drop across the end plate  118  biases the filter insert  100  toward the cap  112 , which holds the filter insert  100  in place in the first pipe  104 . In some examples, the filter insert  100  is pushed against the cap  112 . In other examples, the filter insert  100  may be spaced from the cap  112 . For example, a spacer may be disposed between the end of the filter insert  100  and the cap  112 . In other examples, fluid is supplied from the second pipe  106 . In either flow direction, the filter insert  100  is disposed in the fluid flow path to provide filtering functionality. 
     In some examples, the diameter of the end plate  118  is the same as or slightly larger than the inner diameter of the first pipe  104 , which creates a tight seal between the end plate  118  and the inner surface of the first pipe  104  to prevent leakage around the end plate  118 . In some examples, the filter insert  100  includes a seal  122  (e.g., an o-ring) disposed around a circumference or outer peripheral edge of the end plate  118 . The seal  122  creates a sealing engagement between the end plate  118  and an inner surface of the first pipe  104  to prevent leakage of fluid by the end plate  118 . Therefore, in this example, the seal  122  provides means for sealing between the end plate  118  and the first pipe  104 . In some examples, the seal  122  has a double rib or flange for two points of contact. In some examples, the diameter of the seal  122  is larger than an inner diameter of the first pipe  104 , such that the seal  122  is compressed when the filter insert  100  is inserted into the first pipe  104  to create a tight seal. In other examples, the diameter of the seal  122  can be the same as or smaller than the inner diameter of the first pipe  104 . 
     While, in this example, the first pipe  104  has a circular cross-section, in other examples, the first pipe  104  can have a different shaped cross-section (e.g., square, rectangular, etc.). The end plate  118  of the filter insert  100  can be sized and shaped to fit within the corresponding size and shape of the first pipe  104 . 
     To couple the filter tubes  116  to the end plate  118 , in the illustrated example of  FIG.  1   , the filter insert  100  includes a first retainer  124 . The first retainer  124  has five arms that extend outward to the ends of the filter tubes  116 . The filter insert  100  can also include a second retainer on the opposite end of the filter insert  100 , which is disclosed in further detail herein. In some examples, the filter insert  100  includes support rods that extend through the filter tubes  116  and are coupled to the first and second retainers, which clamps the filter tubes  116  to the end plate  118 , as disclosed in further detail herein. 
       FIG.  4    is a perspective view of a first end of the filter insert  100 . In this example, the filter insert  100  includes five filter tubes  116  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  4   ). However, in other examples, the filter insert  100  can include any number of filter tubes. In this example, the filter tubes  116  are cylindrical. However, in other examples, the filter tubes  116  can be shaped differently. 
     As shown in  FIG.  4   , the end plate  118  has a first side  401  and a second side  403  opposite the first side  401 . The filter tubes  116  extend from the first side  401 . As shown in  FIG.  4   , each of the filter tubes  116  has a first end  400  and a second end  402  opposite the first end  400 . The first ends  400  of the filter tubes  116  are coupled to (e.g., engaged with) the first side  401  of the end plate  118 . In some examples, first caps  404  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  4   ) are disposed on the first ends  400  of the filter tubes  116 . The first caps  404  have openings aligned with the channels in the filter tubes  116  and the openings  120  ( FIG.  1   ) in the end plate  118 . In some examples, the first caps  404  provide an interface between the first ends  400  of the filter tubes  116  and the first side  401  of the end plate  118 . In other examples, the first caps  404  may not be provided. Instead, the first ends  400  of the filter tubes  116  can be directly engaged with the first side  401  of the end plate  118 . 
     In some examples, second caps  406  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  4   ) are coupled to the second ends  402  of the filter tubes  116 . Referring briefly to  FIG.  6   ,  FIG.  6    shows a backside of the one of the second caps  406 . The second caps  406  prevent fluid flow out of the second ends  402  of the filter tubes  116 . As such, fluid is forced to flow through the walls of the filter tubes  116 . In the illustrated example of  FIG.  6   , the second cap  406  has an opening  600  to receive a support rod, which is disclosed in further detail herein. 
     As shown in  FIG.  4   , the seal  122  is disposed around a circumference of the end plate  118 . In this example, the seal  122  has first and second flanges  408 ,  410  that are axially spaced apart. In some examples, the dual flange design improves sealing performance. In other examples, other types of seals can be used. 
       FIG.  5    is a perspective view of a second end of the filter insert  100 . As shown in  FIG.  5   , the filter insert  100  includes a second retainer  500 . The second retainer  500  is coupled to the second ends  402  of the filter tubes  116  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  5   ). In this example, the second retainer  500  is a same shape and size as the first retainer  124 . In some examples, this reduces manufacturing costs because the same part can be manufactured multiple times. The second retainer  500  has five arms extending to the centers of each of the filter tubes  116 . In the illustrated example of  FIG.  5   , the second ends  402  of the filter tubes  116  are covered with the second caps  406  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  5   ). s 
     In the illustrated example of  FIG.  5   , the filter insert  100  includes a central rod  502 . A first end (labeled in  FIG.  8   ) of the central rod  502  extends through the end plate  118  and the first retainer  124  ( FIG.  1   ), and a second end  501  of the central rod  502  extends through the second retainer  500 , as shown in  FIG.  5   . The ends of the central rod  502  are threaded. A first threaded fastener (e.g., a nut) (labeled in  FIG.  8   ) is coupled to the first end of the central rod  502 , and a second threaded fastener  503  (e.g., a nut) is coupled to the second end  501  of the central rod  502 , thereby clamping the filter tubes  116  between the first retainer  124  (and the end plate  118 ) and the second retainer  500 . In some examples, if it is desired to separate the filter insert  100  from the cap  112  ( FIG.  1   ), the central rod  502  can be extended further outward from the second retainer  500 , such that the central rod  502  engages the cap  112  and separates the rest of the filter insert  100  from the cap  112 . 
     In the illustrated example of  FIG.  5   , the filter insert  100  includes a set of support rods  504  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  5   ). The support rods  504  extend through respective ones of the channels of the filter tubes  116 . In particular, the support rods  504  extend beyond the second ends  402  of the filter tubes  116 . The support rods  504  also extend beyond the first ends  400  of the filter tubes  116  and through the openings  120  ( FIG.  1   ) in the end plate  118 , as shown in further detail in  FIG.  8   . The support rods  504  have first ends (labeled in  FIG.  8   ) and second ends  505  opposite the first ends. In this example, the filter insert  100  includes five support rods  504 . However, in other examples, the filter insert  100  can include more or fewer support rods  504 . In some examples, the central rod  502  and the support rods  504  are constructed of metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, etc.). In other examples, the central rod  502  and the support rods  504  can be constructed of other materials. 
     The second retainer  500  is coupled to the support rods  504  at or near the second ends  505  of the support rods  504 . As such, the filter tubes  116  are clamped between the end plate  118  and the second retainer  500 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  5   , the support rods  504  extend through the second retainer  500 . In some examples, the second ends  505  of the support rods  504  are threaded. The filter insert  100  includes second threaded fasteners  506  (e.g., nuts) (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  5   ) coupled to the second ends  505  of the support rods  504 . As such, the second retainer  500  is disposed between the second threaded fasteners  506  and the filter tubes  116 . The second threaded fasteners  506  can be tightened, thereby clamping the filter tubes  116  between the end plate  118  and the second retainer  500 . In other examples, the filter tubes  116  can be coupled to the end plate  118  ( FIG.  1   ) using an alternative mechanism. 
       FIG.  7    is a perspective view of the filter insert  100  without the filter tubes  116 .  FIG.  7    shows the end plate  118 , the second retainer  500 , the central rod  502 , and the support rods  504  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  7   ). The filter insert  100  has a central axis  701 . The support rods  504  are parallel to and spaced from the central axis  701 , and the central rod  502  is aligned with the central axis  701 . As shown in  FIG.  7   , the central rod  502  and each of the support rods  504  extends through the end plate  118  (and the first retainer  124  ( FIG.  1   )). In particular, the support rods  504  extend through the openings  120  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  7   ) in the end plate  118 . In some examples, the diameter of the openings  120  is the same or substantially the same as the inner diameter of the filter tubes  116 . 
     In the illustrated example of  FIG.  7   , the filter insert  100  includes fin members  700  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  7   ) on the support rods  504 . Each of the fin members  700  has a set of fins that extends radially outward from the respective support rods  504 . The fin(s) help centralize and support the filter tubes  116  ( FIG.  1   ) on the support rods  504 . The fin(s) also align the channels of the filter tubes  116  with the openings  120  in the end plate  118 . 
     A callout of one of the fin members  700  is shown in  FIG.  7   . The other fin members  700  are identical to the fin member  700  shown in the callout. Thus, any of the example aspects disclosed in connection with the fin member  700  in the callout can likewise apply to the other fin members  700  of the example filter insert  100 . 
     In this example, the fin member  700  has a set of fins  702 . The fins  702  extend radially outward from the support rod  504 . The fin member  700  is coupled to the support rod  504  and, thus, the fins  702  are coupled to the support rod  504 . When the filter tube  116  is disposed over the fin member  700 , the fins  702  engage an inner surface of the channel of the filter tube  116 . The fins  702  support the first end  400  ( FIG.  4   ) of the filter tube  116  and align the channel of the filter tube  116  with the opening  120  in the end plate  118 . In some examples, the diameter of the area created by the fins  702  is the same as or larger than the diameter of the opening  120 . In the illustrated example of  FIG.  7   , the fin member  700  is disposed at or near the end plate  118 . In some examples, the fins  702  are engaged with the first side  401  end plate  118 . In other examples, the diameter of the area created by the fins  702  is less than the diameter of the opening  120 . As shown in the callout of  FIG.  7   , the fins  702  are tapered in a direction away from the end plate  118 . In some examples, this taper helps to insert the fin member  700  into the first end  400  ( FIG.  4   ) of the filter tube  116  during assembly. In other examples, the fins  702  may not be tapered. 
     In this example, the fin member  700  includes four fins  702 . In this example, the fins  702  are spaced about 90° (e.g., ±5°) apart from each other. In other examples, the fins  702  may be spaced differently. Further, in other examples, the fin member  700  may include more or fewer fins (e.g., one fin, two fins, three fins, five fins, etc.). 
     In some examples, the support rod  504  extends through a channel  704  in the fin member  700 . As such, the fin member  700  may be axially slidable along the support rod  504 . In some examples, the fin member  700  is held stationary relative to the support for 504 via friction fit, an adhesive (e.g., glue), and/or a fastener. While, in this example, the fins  702  are part of the fin member  700 , in other examples, the fins  702  can be coupled directly to the support for 504 and/or otherwise formed directly with the support rod  504 . 
       FIG.  8    is a perspective view of the first end of the filter insert  100  showing the openings  120  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  8   ) in the end plate  118 . During operation, fluid from a piping system flows through the openings  120 , between the fins  702  ( FIG.  7   ) of the fin members  700  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  7   ) and into the channel of the filter tubes  116  (one of which is reference in  FIG.  7   ). The fluid flows through the walls of the filter tubes  116  and into the surrounding area. 
     As shown in  FIG.  8   , a first end  800  of the central rod  502  and first ends  802  of the support rods  504  extend beyond the end plate  118  and the first retainer  124 . In the illustrated example, the first retainer  124  is coupled to central rod  502  and the support rods  504  at or near first ends  800 ,  802 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  8   , the central rod  502  and the support rods  504  (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  8   ) extend through the end plate  118  and through the first retainer  124 . In some examples, the first ends  800 ,  802  of the central rod  502  and the support rods  504  are threaded. The filter insert  100  includes first threaded fasteners  804  (e.g., nuts) (one of which is referenced in  FIG.  8   ) coupled to the first ends  800 ,  802  of the central rod  502  and the support rods  504 . As such, the first retainer  124  is clamped between the first threaded fasteners  804  and the second side  403  of the end plate  118 . This also clamps the filter tubes  116  between the first retainer  124  (and the end plate  118 ) and the second retainer  500  ( FIG.  5   ). Therefore, in this example, the first retainer  124 , the second retainer  500 , and the central rod  502  and the support rods  504  provide means for coupling the filter tubes  116  to the end plate  118 . In some examples, the first and second retainers  124 ,  500  are constructed of metal (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum, etc.). In other examples, the first and second retainers  124 ,  500  are constructed of other materials. 
     In some examples, instead of using the second retainer  500 , a second end plate can be coupled to the second ends  402  of the filter tubes  116 . For example,  FIG.  9    shows an example in which a second end plate  900  is coupled to the second ends  402  ( FIG.  4   ) of the filter tubes  116  (one of which is reference in  FIG.  9   ). The central rod  502  and the support rods  504  (one of which is reference in  FIG.  9   ) extend through the second end plate  900 . Threaded fasteners (e.g., nuts) can be coupled to the central rod  502  and the support rod  504  to couple the second end plate  900  to the second ends  402  of the filter tubes  116 . 
       FIG.  10    is a partial cross-sectional view of one of the example filter tubes  116 . The other filter tubes  116  are identical to the filter tube  116  shown in  FIG.  10   . Thus, any of the example aspects disclosed in connection with the filter tube  116  in  FIG.  10    can likewise apply to the other filter tubes  116  of the example filter insert  100 . 
     The filter tube  116  has the first end  400  and the second end  402  and a channel or passageway  1000  extending between openings in the first and second ends  400 ,  402 . The second cap  406  is coupled to the second end  402  and blocks the opening in the second end  402 . In some examples, a cap (e.g., the first cap  404  ( FIG.  4   )) is also provided on the first end  400 . Such a cap includes an opening aligned with the opening to the passageway  1000 . In the illustrated example, the filter tube  116  includes a gasket  1002  coupled (e.g., via an adhesive) to the first end  400 . In some examples, the gasket  1002  is disposed between the first end  400  of the filter tube  116  and the first side  401  ( FIG.  1   ) of the end plate  118  ( FIG.  4   ). The gasket  1002  helps provide a tight seal between the first end  400  of the filter tube  116  and the end plate  118 . In some examples, the filter tube  116  includes a cylindrical body  1004 . The cylindrical body  1004  can be constructed of pleated material. In some examples, an outer liner  1006  is wrapped around the cylindrical body  1004 . 
     As disclosed above, in other examples, the insert  100  can be designed as another type of insert to perform another function. In such an example, the filter tubes  116  can be replaced with another device or cartridge and coupled to the end plate  118 . For example, the insert  100  may be a separator insert, a dehydrator insert, a combo insert, a debris shield insert, and/or a mist eliminator insert. A dehydrator insert, for example, can include a hydrator cartridge coupled to the end plate  118 . The dehydrator cartridge can include a chemical, such as silica, to perform a drying function as the fluid passes through the insert. 
     Referring back to  FIG.  1   , the section of the first pipe  104  with the filter insert  100  has a larger diameter than the rest of the first pipe  104 . For example, as shown in  FIG.  1   , the first pipe  104  has a first section  126  (which may be referred to as an overbore) with a first diameter a second section  128  with a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter. The filter insert  100  is disposed within the first section  126  having the first diameter. In some examples, the first section  126  has a 12 inch DN and the second section  128  has a 10 inch DN. In other examples, the diameters of the first and second sections  126 ,  128  can be larger or smaller. The transition between the first and second sections  126 ,  128  can be tapered or formed as a step. In some examples, the first section  126  is enlarged to enable launching and/or receiving a pig device, an example of which is disclosed below in connection with  FIG.  11   . In other examples, the first pipe  104  may have a constant diameter, or the section with the filter insert  100  can be smaller than the rest of the first pipe  104 . 
       FIG.  11    shows the filter insert  100  and an example scraper or pig  1100 , sometimes referred to as a pipeline inspection gauge tool or device. A pig is a device that moves through a pipeline to perform one or more functions, such as measuring the inner walls of the pipeline, cleaning the pipeline, etc. The filter insert  100  can be removed from the first pipe  104  to insert or remove the pig  1100 . In such an example, the first section  126  of the first pipe  104  may be considered a pig launching/receiving station, where the pig  1100  is launched and/or received. In some examples, the first section  126  is longer than the filter insert  100  to accommodate launching and/or catching the pig  1100  in the first section  126 . In other words, the filter insert  100  can be shorter than the first section  126  such that the pig  1100  can be disposed entirely within the first section  126  of the first pipe  104  along with the filter insert  100 . This helps to reduce or prevent depressurization problems when removing the pig  1100 . In some examples, the filter insert  100  and the pig  1100  are able to be connected, such that the filter insert  100  and the pig  1100  can be inserted into the first pipe  104  and/or removed from the first pipe  104  as a unit. 
       FIG.  12    shows another example filter insert  1200  disposed in a pipe  1202  of a piping system  1204 . An end  1206  of the pipe  1202  is covered or sealed with a cap  1208 . The filter insert  1200  is disposed in the pipe  1202  near the end  1206 . The filter insert  1200  can be inserted into the pipe  1202  via the end  1206 . The filter insert  1200  is similar to the filter insert  100  disclosed above and includes an end plate and a plurality of filter tubes coupled to and extending from the end plate. In this example, the pipe  1202  has multiple ports  1210 . One or more pipes can be coupled (e.g., via threaded fasteners in the flanges) to one or more of the respective ports  1210 . Fluid flows from an upstream supply source, through the filter insert  1200 , and through the ports  1210  to the downstream pipes. In other examples, the flow may be reversed. 
       FIG.  13    is a flowchart representative of an example method  1300  of installing an example insert. The example method  1300  is described in connection with the filter insert  100  and the piping system  102  of  FIG.  1   . However, the example method  1300  can be similarly performed in connection with other types of inserts, such as separator inserts, dehydrator inserts, combo inserts, debris shield inserts, and mist eliminator inserts. The piping system  102  may be an existing piping system or may be a newly constructed and/or installed piping system. In some examples, the piping system  102  is a natural gas piping system. The example method  1300  can be partially or fully automated (e.g., performed via one or more machines or systems) and/or can be partially or fully performed manually (e.g., via one or more person). 
     At block  1302 , the example method  1300  includes opening the end  108  of the first pipe  104 . For example, the end  108  may be opened by removing the cap  112  or swinging or sliding the cap  112  to an open position. The end  108  of the first pipe  104  can be part of a pig launching or receiving barrel. 
     At block  1304 , the example method  1300  includes inserting the filter insert  100  into the end  108  of the first pipe  104 . In some examples, the filter insert  100  is manually inserted via one or more persons. In other examples, a hoist or other listing device can be used to lift and insert the filter insert  100 . In some examples, the method  1300  includes, prior to inserting the filter insert  100  into the end  108  of the first pipe  104 , inserting a PIG (a pipeline inspection gauge or pipeline intervention device) into the end  108  of the first pipe  104 . The PIG can travel through the piping system  102  and perform one or more functions (e.g., cleaning, inspection, etc.). 
     At block  1306 , the method  1300  includes closing the end  108  of the first pipe  104 . For example, the cap  112  may be reconnected or coupled to the end  108  of the first pipe  104 , such as by inserting and/or tightening the threaded fasteners. To remove the filter insert  100 , the example method can be performed in reverse. In some examples, the filter insert  100  can be removed and another in-pipe insert can be inserted (e.g., another filter insert, a dehydrator, a mist eliminator). 
     In some examples, prior to installing the filter insert  100 , one or more upstream or downstream valves can be closed to prevent fluid flow through the joint  107 . In some examples, the joint  107  is bypassed such that flow through the rest of the piping system  102  does not stop. 
     An example method of using the filter insert  100  includes cleaning or filtering, with the filter insert  100 , fluid in the piping system  102  as the fluid flows through the filter insert  100 . In some examples, the method includes launching a pig, such as the pig  1100 , in the piping system  102  to clean and/or inspect the walls of the pipes of the piping system  102 . The pig  1100  may remove or knock loose any particulate and debris along the walls of the pipes. This particulate and debris can be captured by the filter insert  100 . 
     Example apparatus, systems, methods, and articles of manufacture relating to in-pipe insert and piping systems have been disclosed. 
     Examples and Example Combinations Include the Following 
     Example 1 is a filter insert to be disposed in a pipe of a piping system. The filter insert includes an end plate having a set of openings and a set of filter tubes extending from a first side of the end plate. The filter tubes have respective channels aligned with respective ones of the openings. The filter insert includes a set of support rods extending through respective ones of the channels of the filter tubes. The support rods extend through the openings in the end plate. The filter insert also includes a first retainer disposed on a second side of the end plate. The first retainer is coupled to the support rods at or near first ends of the support rods. The filter insert also includes a second retainer coupled to the support rods at or near second ends of the support rods opposite the first ends such that the filter tubes are clamped between the end plate and the second retainer. 
     Example 2 includes the filter insert of Example 1, further including first threaded fasteners coupled to the first ends of the support rods such that the first retainer is disposed between the first threaded fasteners and the second side of the end plate. 
     Example 3 includes the filter insert of Example 2, further including second threaded fasteners coupled to the second ends of the support rods such that the second retainer is disposed between the second threaded fasteners and the filter tubes. 
     Example 4 includes the filter insert of any of Examples 1-3, further including caps on the ends of the filter tubes. 
     Example 5 includes the filter insert of any of Examples 1-4, wherein the support rods are parallel to and spaced from a central axis of the filter insert. 
     Example 6 includes the filter insert of Example 5, further including a central rod aligned with the central axis. The central rod extends through the first retainer, the end plate, and the second retainer. 
     Example 7 includes the filter insert of Example 6, further including a first threaded fastener coupled to a first end of the central rod and a second threaded fastener coupled to a second end of the central rod. 
     Example 8 includes the filter insert of any of Examples 1-7, wherein the second retainer is a same shape and size as the first retainer. 
     Example 9 includes the filter insert of any of Examples 1-8, further including a seal disposed around a circumference of the end plate. The seal has first and second flanges axially spaced apart. 
     Example 10 includes the filter insert of any of Examples 1-9, further including fins extending radially outward from each of the support rods near the end plate. The fins are to support the respective filter tubes. 
     Example 11 includes the filter insert of any of Examples 1-10, wherein each of the filter tubes includes a cylindrical body constructed of a pleated material and an outer liner wrapped around the cylindrical body. 
     Example 12 is a piping system including a first pipe having an end, a second pipe coupled to the first pipe at an opening formed in a side of the first pipe near the end, and a filter insert disposed in the first pipe near the end of the first pipe. The filter insert includes an end plate having an opening and a filter tube extending from a side of the end plate. The filter tube has a channel aligned with the opening such that when fluid flows through the first pipe, the fluid flows through the opening and into the channel of the filter tube. The filter include also includes a support rod extending through the channel of the filter tube and a set of fins extending radially outward from the support rod and engaged with the filter tube. 
     Example 13 includes the piping system of Example 12, wherein the set of fins includes four fins. 
     Example 14 includes the piping system of Example 13, wherein the fins are spaced about 90° apart from each other. 
     Example 15 includes the piping system of any of Examples 12-14, wherein the fins are engaged with the side of the end plate. 
     Example 16 includes the piping system of any of Examples 12-15, wherein the side of the end plate is a first side, and wherein the support rod extends through the opening in the end plate. The filter insert further includes a retainer disposed on a second side of the end plate. The retainer is coupled to the support rod at or near a first end of the support rod. 
     Example 17 includes the piping system of Example 16, wherein the retainer is a first retainer. The filter insert further includes a second retainer coupled to the support rod at or near a second end of the support rod. 
     Example 18 is a filter insert to be disposed in a pipe of a piping system. The filter insert includes means for filtering particulate from fluid in the piping system. The filtering means has a channel. The filter insert includes means for positioning the filtering means in the pipe. The positioning means has an opening. The filter insert also includes a support rod extending through the channel of the filtering means and a set of fins extending radially outward from the support rod and engaged with the filtering means. The fins are to align the channel of the filtering means with the opening in the positioning means. 
     Example 19 includes the filter insert of Example 18, further including means for sealing between the positioning means and the pipe. 
     Example 20 includes the filter insert of Examples 18 or 19, further including means for coupling the filtering means to the positioning means. 
     Example 21 is a method including opening an end of a first pipe. A second pipe is coupled to the first pipe at an opening formed in a side of the first pipe near the end. The first and second pipes are part of a piping system. The method includes inserting a filter insert of any of Examples 1-20 into the end of the first pipe and closing the end of the first pipe. 
     Example 22 includes the method of Example 21, wherein the piping system is a natural gas piping system. 
     Example 23 includes the method of Examples 21 or 22, further including, prior to inserting the filter insert into the end of the first pipe, inserting a pipeline inspection gauge or pipeline intervention device into the end of the first pipe. 
     Example 24 includes the method of any of Examples 21-23, wherein the filter insert includes a seal disposed around a circumference of the end plate, the seal to create a sealing engagement between the end plate and an inner surface of the first pipe. 
     Example 25 is a piping system including a first pipe having an end, a second pipe coupled to the first pipe at an opening formed in a side of the first pipe near the end, and an insert disposed in the first pipe near the end. 
     Example 26 is a filter insert to be disposed in a pipe of a piping system. The filter insert includes a filter and an end plate. The filter coupled to the end plate. The end plate sized to substantially fill the pipe of the piping system when the filter insert is disposed in the pipe. 
     Example 27 is a method including opening an end of a first pipe. A second pipe is coupled to the first pipe at an opening formed in a side of the first pipe near the end. The method includes inserting an insert into the end of the first pipe and closing the end of the first pipe. 
     “Including” and “comprising” (and all forms and tenses thereof) are used herein to be open ended terms. Thus, whenever a claim employs any form of “include” or “comprise” (e.g., comprises, includes, comprising, including, having, etc.) as a preamble or within a claim recitation of any kind, it is to be understood that additional elements, terms, etc. may be present without falling outside the scope of the corresponding claim or recitation. As used herein, when the phrase “at least” is used as the transition term in, for example, a preamble of a claim, it is open-ended in the same manner as the term “comprising” and “including” are open ended. The term “and/or” when used, for example, in a form such as A, B, and/or C refers to any combination or subset of A, B, C such as (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A with B, (5) A with C, (6) B with C, and (7) A with B and with C. As used herein in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects and/or things, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to implementations including any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects and/or things, the phrase “at least one of A or B” is intended to refer to implementations including any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein in the context of describing the performance or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities and/or steps, the phrase “at least one of A and B” is intended to refer to implementations including any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing the performance or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities and/or steps, the phrase “at least one of A or B” is intended to refer to implementations including any of (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. 
     As used herein, singular references (e.g., “a”, “an”, “first”, “second”, etc.) do not exclude a plurality. The term “a” or “an” entity, as used herein, refers to one or more of that entity. The terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more”, and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, although individually listed, a plurality of means, elements or method actions may be implemented by, e.g., a single unit or processor. Additionally, although individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these may possibly be combined, and the inclusion in different examples or claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and/or advantageous. 
     From the foregoing, it can be appreciated that example in-pipe inserts have been disclosed that utilize or leverage existing pipes as a housing or casing for the in-pipe inserts. This significantly reduces manufacturing costs and time associated with the disclosed filters and other types of inserts. Further, the disclosed in-pipe inserts can be configured to perform various functions, such as filtering, dehydrating, shielding debris, and/or mist elimination. 
     Although certain example methods, apparatus, systems, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all methods, apparatus, systems, and articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scope of the claims of this patent. 
     The following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description by this reference, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.