With Aperture Forming Means Patents (Class 137/318)
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Patent number: 8091573Abstract: An apparatus and method for accessing a sub sea pipeline. The apparatus comprises a entry guide (2) having a channel extending there-through for guiding a pipeline intervention device and means for attaching the entry guide to the external wall of a section of pipeline so that the longitudinal axis (b) through the centre of the channel of the entry guide forms an angle of between about 1° and 10° with the longitudinal axis (a) through the centre of the pipeline section.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2008Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: BP Corporation North America Inc.Inventors: Brandon Grant France, Rodney Keith Stephens
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Patent number: 8069874Abstract: An assembly and method for tapping into a pressurized tubular that is adapted for use in a subsea environment via a diver or remotely operated vehicle. The assembly includes a tapping tool connectable to the tubular via a saddle connection.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2008Date of Patent: December 6, 2011Assignee: Cudd Pressure Control, Inc.Inventor: Charles Curtis Overstreet
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Patent number: 8066025Abstract: A simplified piercing valve stem assembly system and apparatus which includes a valve stem component to which a piercing point has been securely affixed, and an easily manufactured stub-out with a flattened or partially flattened end adapted for piercing.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2008Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Inventor: Richard Anderson
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Patent number: 8020575Abstract: A method for tapping a water line, the water line being buried below a subterranean frost line, the water line traversing a water meter box's lower end, and having first and second sections within the water meter box respectively extending upwardly to and extending downwardly from a water meter, the method for tapping the water line including steps of providing a flexible tube having an intake end and an output end, the flexible tube having a length sufficient for, upon attachment of the flexible tube's intake end to the water line within the water meter box, extensions and retractions of the flexible tube between first and second positions, the flexible tube's output end residing below the subterranean frost line while in the first position and the flexible tube's output end extending upwardly from the water meter box while in the second position; attaching the flexible tube's intake end to the water line within the water meter box; providing a spigot and attaching the spigot to the flexible tube's output enType: GrantFiled: April 7, 2009Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Inventor: Gerald D. Watson
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Patent number: 8002002Abstract: A fluid filter draining device is shown for draining fluid from a fluid container, such as an oil filter, in a controlled manner. An engagement ring is frictionally engaged on the outer sidewalls of a fluid filter. The engagement ring carries a threaded screw with a sharpened tip and a channel communicating between an opening at a forward end of the screw and a rear region of the threaded screw. When the screw is turned it penetrates the sidewall of the fluid container and enters the fluid containing cavity of the filter. Fluid is drained through the channel in the drill tip and out through an associated swivel hose connection and swivel hose to a collection container.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2009Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Inventor: Bobby Knoll
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Patent number: 7938137Abstract: A method of hot tapping into a multiple string configuration for obtaining access to the production tubing without removing outer layers of casing by providing a multiple casing string that includes at least an outer casing and an inner casing or production string; mounting a clamp assembly around the wall of the outer casing; hot tapping a small opening through the outer casing wall to capture any pressurized fluid through the opening; cutting first and second large openings through the wall of the outer casing to access the inner casing, each opening being approximately 180 degrees from the other opening; through the first opening, drilling a small hole through the wall of the inner casing to capture any pressurized fluid through the opening in the inner casing; and inserting an anvil through the second opening to contact and stabilize the wall of the inner casing to prevent the casing from moving while the casing is drilled.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2008Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Blowout Tools, Inc.Inventors: Martin Cenac, Richard J. Robichaux, John William Angers, Jr.
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Publication number: 20110041926Abstract: An apparatus for isolating elbow fittings includes a fluid containing elbow housing comprised of cooperating components. The elbow housing has a first opening for a first branch of an elbow, a second opening for a second branch of an elbow and a tool insertion opening in axial alignment with the first opening. Means are provided for securing the cooperating components of the elbow housing around an elbow. A seal seals the first opening, the second opening, and the cooperating components. An isolation valve controls the tool insertion opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2009Publication date: February 24, 2011Inventor: Ivan Mazur
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Patent number: 7886773Abstract: A low pressure directional stop bypass device including a saddle fitting having an axially extending tubular connection element having a connection element wall forming a lateral bypass port, a valve assembly connected with the axially extending tubular connection element having a first valve port in fluid communication with the lateral bypass port and having a second valve port, and a stuffing box connected with the second valve port. A launch tube assembly is inserted through the stuffing box and the valve assembly into the axially extending tubular connection element. The launch tube element includes an outer tubular member, an inner tubular member disposed within the outer tubular member, and a stopper supply tube having a leading end and a trailing end and disposed within the inner tubular member. A flexible inflatable stopper plug connected with the leading end of the stopper supply tube.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2008Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Operations Technology Development, NFPInventor: Jeffrey William Mainzer
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Publication number: 20100307604Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention provide apparatuses and methods for stopping the flow of media within a pipeline. The pipeline generally includes one or more pipes connected end-to-end, where each of the pipes has a longitudinal axis with an annular wall. The annular wall has an outer wall surface and an inner wall surface, where the inner wall surface defines an inner pipe diameter. In various embodiments, a hole is formed in the pipeline substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the annular wall and extending through the opposing pipe wall. A resilient plug is positioned within the pipeline such that it extends between the holes and is selectively expanded in a radial direction to create a seal with the inner surface of the pipe and holes to prevent flow of the media within the pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2010Publication date: December 9, 2010Inventors: Mikhail German, Leo Fleury
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Patent number: 7846330Abstract: The invention is a handheld device for puncturing oil filters and thus allowing more retained oil to drain from used filters. An oil filter has several internal chambers filled with oil which do not drain by gravity from the filter unless the sidewall of the filter is punches. The device of the invention punches the sidewall of the filters, and provides a rack for draining the oil filters.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2008Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Inventor: Keith A. Nelson
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Patent number: 7832420Abstract: An improved saddle tee for branching a conduit from a main line is disclosed. The saddle tee includes a base unit that defines an opening for receiving a tap and interlocking jaws for securing the base unit to a main line. The tap may include a shaped portion for receiving a tool interface to rotate the tap to drive the tap into the main line. The tool interface could be secured to a power tool to enable rapid driving of the saddle tee into the main line. The saddle tee may also include offset arcuate interlocking jaws to enable the jaws to interlock around the main line with ease. Optional interface surfaces on the tap and base unit enable the tap and base unit to interlock to limit rotation of the tap relative to the base unit when the tap is fully inserted into the base unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2007Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Assignee: Orbit Irrigation Products, Inc.Inventors: Scot Hoskisson, Tres Wangsgaard, Alan T. Ence
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Publication number: 20100282337Abstract: A tapping tee assembly (10) comprises an integrally moulded saddle (12), body (14) and socket (16). The tapping tee assembly can be mounted on a pipeline thereby enabling a cutter to travel through the body of the fitting in order to cut a hole in the pipeline. The saddle (12) is provided with a saddle-shaped electrofusion element mat (18) and the socket (16), which is integral with the body (14) and in fluid connection with the axial bore (20) of the body, is provided with a second electrofusion element (22). The electrofusion elements (22,30) are connected by an integrated anvil-shaped connector (26) and connecting pin (28) such that both electrofusion elements (22,30) can be energised simultaneously using two electrical terminals (24,38), and the device can be manufactured with relative ease.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 16, 2008Publication date: November 11, 2010Applicant: RADIUS SYSTEMS LIMITEDInventors: Mario John Christodoulou, Colin Hughes, Jeffrey Richard Utting
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Patent number: 7823744Abstract: A storage container for water-endangering liquids comprises a leakage detection and restraint system. The storage container provides a container that allows for a short-notice alarm system and that minimizes the collection volume, that is to ensure that the water-endangering liquid spreads as little as possible, as well as to reduce construction and maintenance costs. The storage container is characterized by the following features: a gutter (4) surrounding the tank (13) that is directly contiguous with the outer wall (2) of the storage container and that collects leaked liquid, at least one gutter outlet (14), at least one liquid collection container (6), and at least one detection system (12) for the water-endangering liquids. The gutter outlet (14) is adapted to guide the liquid collected in the gutter (4) to the liquid collection container (6) that is provided with the detection system (12).Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2006Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Ruhr Oel GmbHInventors: Norbert Nagler, Reiner Stolze, Werner Wychlacz
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Publication number: 20100243072Abstract: A method and apparatus for tapping into a pressurized multiple strings of coaxially situated tubulars for wells and/or platforms which have overturned wherein the tapping occurs underwater via a diver or remotely operated vehicle. The assembly includes a tapping tool connectable to the tubular via a saddle connection and an adjustable tapping clamp with adjustable support/locking feet, compression plate with view ports, and angularly adjustable hot tapping system, along with a drill/saw system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2010Publication date: September 30, 2010Inventors: Harry MCGRAW, Leslie M. BLAND
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Publication number: 20100212754Abstract: A subsea hot-tapping system, comprising an existing pipeline; a hot-tap body fitted around the pipeline; and a fluid injected between the pipeline and the body. In some embodiments, the system also includes a radial arm cutter, adapted to cut a hole in the existing pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2007Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventors: Ray Rolland Ayers, Michael Hosokawa Dupre, Michael Lee Eckstein, Jack Everett Miller
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Patent number: 7753068Abstract: The invention relates to a diversion which can be used under load conditions in a fluid distribution system without interrupting the fluid supply or installing a by pass. The diversions consists of a body that is formed by two complementary components including an upper component comprising openings which are oriented transversely to the direction of the pipe to be cut off, which are equipped with seals and which are designed such as to enable the insertion and passage of a cutting blade that is associated with an external guillotine. The aforementioned upper component comprises an inner collar or flange which can be coupled and secured to the pipe segment to be cut off, said collar or flange being joined to a threaded longitudinal element which extends externally and which is used to remove the cut-off pipe segment. The invention also includes elements for sealing the openings once the cutting operations have been performed and the guillotine has been removed.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2006Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Inventor: D. Francisco Javier Villar Colquell
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Publication number: 20100126593Abstract: The present invention provides a hot tapping machine in which the cutter is rotated to cut a coupon from a pipeline by a drive mechanism located at the end of the machine closest to the pipeline. The cutter is advanced towards the pipeline by a second drive mechanism which can be located at the end of the machine remote from the pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2008Publication date: May 27, 2010Applicant: MIRAGE MACHINES LIMITEDInventor: Richard Silk
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Patent number: 7721754Abstract: A tapping tee assembly and method for tapping a conduit and fluidly connecting to the conduit include a body defining a conduit recess for receiving the conduit and further defining a main passage with a cover disposed therein. The main passage has a first end adjacent the conduit recess and a second, open end spaced apart from the first end. The second end is closed by a cap. The body of the tapping tee assembly is secured to the conduit with the conduit received in the conduit recess. The cutter is advanced along the main passage toward the conduit without removal of the cap from the body to tap the conduit and fluidly connect the conduit and the main passage.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2007Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Assignee: Elster Perfection CorporationInventors: Jason Knaus, Shawn Houlahan, Brent Carrick
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Patent number: 7722298Abstract: The present invention provides a hot tap machine having independent speed drives for the center drill and the holesaw that can be remotely operated. The hot tap machine of the present invention also has improved vibratory damping and coupon stability and retention. During operation, the machine cartridge holding the machine internal assemblies of the hot tap machine of the present invention is, except for its controls and external support systems, entirely contained within its pressure containment housing which is sealingly attached to the hot tap fitting on the pipe. An advantage in the operation of the present invention is the independence of the center drilling operation and the pipe coupon cutting operation.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2006Date of Patent: May 25, 2010Inventor: Larry Rayner Russell
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Publication number: 20100084024Abstract: A method of hot tapping into a multiple string configuration for obtaining access to the production tubing without removing outer layers of casing by providing a multiple casing string that includes at least an outer casing and an inner casing or production string; mounting a clamp assembly around the wall of the outer casing; hot tapping a small opening through the outer casing wall to capture any pressurized fluid through the opening; cutting first and second large openings through the wall of the outer casing to access the inner casing, each opening being approximately 180 degrees from the other opening; through the first opening, drilling a small hole through the wall of the inner casing to capture any pressurized fluid through the opening in the inner casing; and inserting an anvil through the second opening to contact and stabilize the wall of the inner casing to prevent the casing from moving while the casing is drilled.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 24, 2008Publication date: April 8, 2010Inventors: Martin Cenac, Richard J. Robichaux, John William Angers, JR.
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Publication number: 20100084026Abstract: A fluid filter draining device is shown for draining fluid from a fluid container, such as an oil filter, in a controlled manner. An engagement ring is frictionally engaged on the outer sidewalls of a fluid filter. The engagement ring carries a threaded screw with a sharpened tip and a channel communicating between an opening at a forward end of the screw and a rear region of the threaded screw. When the screw is turned it penetrates the sidewall of the fluid container and enters the fluid containing cavity of the filter. Fluid is drained through the channel in the drill tip and out through an associated swivel hose connection and swivel hose to a collection container.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2009Publication date: April 8, 2010Inventor: Bobby Knoll
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Publication number: 20100012199Abstract: A low pressure directional stop bypass device including a saddle fitting having an axially extending tubular connection element having a connection element wall forming a lateral bypass port, a valve assembly connected with the axially extending tubular connection element having a first valve port in fluid communication with the lateral bypass port and having a second valve port, and a stuffing box connected with the second valve port. A launch tube assembly is inserted through the stuffing box and the valve assembly into the axially extending tubular connection element. The launch tube element includes an outer tubular member, an inner tubular member disposed within the outer tubular member, and a stopper supply tube having a leading end and a trailing end and disposed within the inner tubular member. A flexible inflatable stopper plug connected with the leading end of the stopper supply tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2008Publication date: January 21, 2010Applicant: OPERATIONS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPMENT, NFPInventor: Jeffrey William Mainzer
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Publication number: 20090266753Abstract: A system and method for dispensing microbial solution into a drain line. The system includes a disposable cartridge adapted to hold a quantity of microbial solution. The cartridge may be provided to the end user containing only a dry mix of microbes in a carrier medium. The end user may then remove a replaceable tab covering a fill hole, fill the cartridge with clean water, and replace the tab. The cartridge may then be inserted into a dispensing assembly, which includes an actuator that engages a nozzle on the cartridge at regular intervals. When the actuator engages the nozzle, a small amount of microbial solution is dispensed and routed through a tube to the drain line. The tube may attach to the drain line through a self-tapping valve assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2009Publication date: October 29, 2009Inventors: David Johnson, Reginald Salinas, George Pearson
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Publication number: 20090260695Abstract: An apparatus and method for accessing a sub sea pipeline. The apparatus comprises a entry guide (2) having a channel extending there-through for guiding a pipeline intervention device and means for attaching the entry guide to the external wall of a section of pipeline so that the longitudinal axis (b) through the centre of the channel of the entry guide forms an angle of between about 1° and 10° with the longitudinal axis (a) through the centre of the pipeline section.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 17, 2008Publication date: October 22, 2009Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.Inventors: Brandon Grant France, Rodney Keith Stephens
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Patent number: 7588201Abstract: An irrigation pipe with a plurality of connector elements adapted for attachment of lateral branches thereto, where the connector elements are integrally fitted to the pipe's wall during the manufacture. Connector elements may be fitted open and be adapted for closing after manufacture if not intended for use, or may be fitted closed and be adapted for opening after manufacture to enable the attachment. A method of production of such irrigation pipe from a strip of flexible weldable or bondable material includes fitting integrally the connector elements to predetermined locations on the strip, with or without punching the strip; bending or twisting the strip so as to juxtapose or overlap lateral edges thereof; and welding or bonding integrally the edges so as to obtain a closed pipe section.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2005Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: Netafim LtdInventors: Abed Masarwa, Avi Schweitzer
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Publication number: 20090218532Abstract: A line stop adapter includes a body having a tapping flange mounting surface, adapted for mounting to a tapping sleeve flange, and an opposing valve mounting surface, adapted for mounting to a temporary valve. An interior wall forms a body aperture fluidly connecting the mounting surfaces. A portion of the interior wall is adapted to receive and selectively engage a completion plug, allowing the completion plug to fluidly seal the body aperture. Multiple engagement portions are arranged around the body aperture for securing the tapping flange mounting surface to the tapping sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2008Publication date: September 3, 2009Inventor: Robert E. Farrelly
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Patent number: 7562670Abstract: A thin diaphragm valve includes a base plate attached to a valve attach plate. A diaphragm is positioned between the plates to move between open and closed positions. A spring can be provided between the diaphragm and a sealing flange of a pipe. Because no sliding friction occurs between sealing surfaces, wear is reduced and leakage is also reduced. A pierceable membrane can also be added to provide additional security.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2006Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Inventors: H. Stephen Jones, Walter P. Kistler, Thomas C. Taylor
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Patent number: 7552742Abstract: A device for hot tapping is disclosed. The device includes a tube having a bore with an opening in the tube in fluid communication with the bore. The tube is connected to a valve which is connected to a saddle connection mounted on a pipe element in a piping network. A boring tool is inserted through the tube and the valve and bores a hole in the pipe element. Fluid under pressure flows from the pipe element through the tube and out through the opening. Swarf generated by the boring is entrained in the fluid and is flushed out through the opening. The device also includes a saddle connection having projections which bite into the pipe element and prevent motion. A hot tapping kit including tubes of different diameters is also encompassed by the invention.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2007Date of Patent: June 30, 2009Assignee: Victaulic CompanyInventor: Douglas R. Dole
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Patent number: 7546847Abstract: A plug for closing an opening in the sidewall of a pipe, including a base member having a radial flange portion, a tubular portion and an annular elastomeric seal member slideably received on the base member tubular portion and in engagement with the flange portion. A rigid compression member is slideably received on the base member tubular portion and in contact with the elastomeric member and has a frusto-conical circumferential surface. A plurality of rigid segmented slips are received on the compression member and have teeth for biting into the cylindrical sidewall when displaced on the frusto-conical surface. An actuation member is received on the base member tubular portion providing a surface in engagement with the segmented slips. A tightening nut can be tightened to cause the segmented slips to lock the plug in position and to sealably close the pipe cylindrical sidewall.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2006Date of Patent: June 16, 2009Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.Inventors: Phillip K. Morrison, Eric N. Freeman, Mark A. Morgan, Tony R. Garrison
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Publication number: 20090145488Abstract: An improved saddle tee for branching a conduit from a main line is disclosed. The saddle tee includes a base unit that defines an opening for receiving a tap and interlocking jaws for securing the base unit to a main line. The tap may include a shaped portion for receiving a tool interface to rotate the tap to drive the tap into the main line. The tool interface could be secured to a power tool to enable rapid driving of the saddle tee into the main line. The saddle tee may also include offset arcuate interlocking jaws to enable the jaws to interlock around the main line with ease. Optional interface surfaces on the tap and base unit enable the tap and base unit to interlock to limit rotation of the tap relative to the base unit when the tap is fully inserted into the base unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 7, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventors: Scot Hoskisson, Tres Wangsgaard, Alan T. Ence
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Publication number: 20090139579Abstract: The invention relates to a diversion which can be used under load conditions in a fluid distribution system without interrupting the fluid supply or installing a by pass. The diversions consists of a body that is formed by two complementary components including an upper component comprising openings which are oriented transversely to the direction of the pipe to be cut off, which are equipped with seals and which are designed such as to enable the insertion and passage of a cutting blade that is associated with an external guillotine. The aforementioned upper component comprises an inner collar or flange which can be coupled and secured to the pipe segment to be cut off, said collar or flange being joined to a threaded longitudinal element which extends externally and which is used to remove the cut-off pipe segment. The invention also includes elements for sealing the openings once the cutting operations have been performed and the guillotine has been removed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2006Publication date: June 4, 2009Inventor: D. Francisco Javier Villar Cloquell
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Publication number: 20090065069Abstract: A modular outlet is used with a service saddle strap so that different outlets that can be connected to different size lines can be used with the same saddle strap.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2008Publication date: March 12, 2009Applicant: ROBAR INDUSTRIES LTD.Inventors: Petrus J. Pretorius, Reginald Police, David C. Brewer, Anthony L. Kuwica
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Publication number: 20090065070Abstract: A branching unit for boring without stopping passage of fluid, which is suitable for forming an opening 11 at a pipe wall 12 by boring a part of the pipe wall 12 of an existing pipe 1 using a drill machine 3 having a hole saw 4 to connect a branch pipe to the existing pipe, comprising: a sealing case 20 having plurality of separate casing 21, 22 separated in a circumferential direction R and a branch pipe portion 27 protruding and branching off in the radial direction C; a valve body 5 rotating between an inner circumferential surface 29 of the separate casing 21, 22 and an outer circumferential surface 13 of the existing pipe 1 to open and close a branch hole 28; and a rotation mechanism 50 rotating the valve body 5.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2008Publication date: March 12, 2009Inventors: Kim Jaehyun, Tamotsu Yamashita, Taihei Yokoyama
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Patent number: 7490628Abstract: A semi-flexible tube is captured between a valve body and a connection device wherein at least one of the valve body and the connection device is connected structurally to a range instead of relying on the manifold tube as the location mechanism for precisely locating the valve at a desired location on the range.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2006Date of Patent: February 17, 2009Assignee: Burner Systems International, Inc.Inventors: Timothy Lee Frost, Ian Rodgers, Daryl Williams, Richard Cowan
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Patent number: 7441993Abstract: Methods and apparatus for making connections to pipes and pressure vessels while they are under pressure employs a first drive mechanism for delivering a cutting tool to the pipe or vessel wall and a second separate drive mechanism for powering the movement of the cutting tool through the wall. The long linear travel associated with the transit of the cutter to the wall is divorced from the short cutter travel required to perform the actual cuffing operation. This allows the two long and short travel systems to be designed independently of one another, and engineering compromises between them can be avoided.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2008Assignee: Clear Well Subsea LimitedInventor: Keith Roderick Evans
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Publication number: 20080196769Abstract: An assembly and method for tapping into a pressurized tubular that is adapted for use in a subsea environment via a diver or remotely operated vehicle. The assembly includes a tapping tool connectable to the tubular via a saddle connection.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2008Publication date: August 21, 2008Applicant: Cudd Pressure Control, Inc.Inventor: Charles Curtis Overstreet
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Publication number: 20080121284Abstract: A tapping tee assembly and method for tapping a conduit and fluidly connecting to the conduit include a body defining a conduit recess for receiving the conduit and further defining a main passage with a cover disposed therein. The main passage has a first end adjacent the conduit recess and a second, open end spaced apart from the first end. The second end is closed by a cap. The body of the tapping tee assembly is secured to the conduit with the conduit received in the conduit recess. The cutter is advanced along the main passage toward the conduit without removal of the cap from the body to tap the conduit and fluidly connect the conduit and the main passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2007Publication date: May 29, 2008Applicant: Elster Perfection CorporationInventors: Jason Knaus, Shawn Houlahan, Brent Carrick
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Patent number: 7350533Abstract: Method and apparatus for accessing the inside of a pipe includes a valve which connects to the pipe, a riser pipe, and an operating rod for selectively opening and closing the valve. The apparatus further includes a 5.25 inch cylindrical housing having a removable cover, the housing surrounding the valve, riser pipe, and operating rod. When the cover is removed, the valve is visible from the top of the housing.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2006Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Inventor: Nicholas A. Teodosio
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Patent number: 7338089Abstract: A pipe interruption fitting having a flange is removable after pipe maintenance work has been completed. The fitting includes an upper reinforcing plate, an inner surface of which has a curvature corresponding to an outer surface of the pipe, and a vertical pipe welded to the upper reinforcing plate. The fitting further includes an adaptor welded to the vertical pipe. Bolt holes are formed in an upper surface of the adaptor. A through hole is formed through the adaptor. An annular groove is formed in an inner surface of the through hole. The flange is removably coupled to the adaptor. Coupling holes are formed in the flange for installation of a boring machine or a stopple machine. The fitting further includes a plug fitted into the through hole of the adaptor and having an expansion plate to be inserted into the annular groove. A cover is adapted to be inserted into the through hole of the adaptor and to be welded thereto.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2006Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Inventor: Woo Kag Lee
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Publication number: 20080011358Abstract: A tapping assembly implements a unitary saddle fitting design to enable the formation of a branch connection with a polymeric flowable material transmission line. The tapping assembly includes a unitary saddle fitting and a set of cutting elements operative to create openings in a structural wall of the transmission line and thereby form a fluid communication pathway from the transmission line through the saddle fitting and onto a service line connected with the tapping assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2006Publication date: January 17, 2008Inventors: Mark U. Brandt, Timothy L. Eggers
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Patent number: 7311114Abstract: A method of providing access to the interior of a cross-line that intersects with a primary pipeline of equal or greater diameter, including the steps of attaching a branch fitting to the exterior of the primary pipeline on the side thereof opposite the point of intersection of the cross-line, affixing a full opening valve to the branch fitting, securing a hot tap machine to the valve, by use of the hot tap machine, cutting an opening in the primary pipeline diametrically opposite of the cross-line and of a diameter at least equal to the internal diameter of the cross-line, and removing the hot tap machine leaving an access through the valve and diametrically through the primary pipeline into the interior of the cross-line.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.Inventors: Phillip K. Morrison, Eric N. Freeman, Mark A. Morgan, Tony R. Garrison
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Patent number: 7302965Abstract: A saddle tap to be mounted on a resin pipe, includes a saddle, a branching barrel including a straight piping portion having an internally threaded hole longitudinally extending therealong, and a branch portion extended from the middle of the straight piping portion, the straight piping portion standing at one end thereof on the saddle, a hole-drilling cutter with a rotating tool detachably connected thereto, and having, at one end thereof, a cutting edge integrally formed therewith, the hole-drilling cutter having an externally threaded barrel portion and being screwed into the internally threaded hole of the straight piping portion so that the hole-drilling cutter is longitudinally movable, and a cap detachably mounted on the other end of the straight piping portion of the branching barrel for closing the internally threaded hole.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Tabuchi Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuo Ishikawa, Takashi Terada
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Patent number: 7299799Abstract: The gas manifold assembly (1) is adapted to a cooking appliance for supplying the burners (21) thereof, and is equipped with various taps (C1-C4) of the rotary type, installed on a elongated tubular-shaped manifold conduit (2), which is disposed parallel to the front wall (FP) of the appliance and supported on it. The taps (C1-C4) have a respective installation seat (7) with a built-in gas intake connected to the elongated conduit (2), and mounting is carried out by means of a one-piece mounting device (12), which in turn has an integral means (12b) for supporting and fastening the manifold assembly (1) to the front wall (FP), for which purpose the aligned tap drive shafts (16) stand proud of the front wall (FP) and the tap outlet conduits (8) face and adjoin their respective burner (21).Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2004Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Inventor: Inigo Albizuri
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Patent number: 7281543Abstract: A method of plugging a pipeline includes the steps of welding onto the exterior of the pipeline (10) first (12) and second (14) spaced apart collars, each having a sealing face (26,26A) in a plane perpendicular the pipeline (10) axis. A containment housing (34,36) is affixed by welding to the collars (12,14) to fully encompass a section of the pipeline (10) between the collars (12,14). A tapping (60) machine is then removably attached to an open top of the containment housing (34). Using the tapping machine (60) a short length of the pipeline (10) is cut and removed from between the collars (12,14) leaving two open exposed pipe ends (78,80). First and second seal elements (92,94) are positioned between the collars (12,14), Each having a forward sealing face. The seal elements (92,94) are forced apart from each other into sealing engagement with the collar sealing faces thereby closing the open, exposed ends (78,80) of the pipe (10).Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2004Date of Patent: October 16, 2007Inventors: Charles D. Calkins, Eric N. Freeman, Tony R. Garrison, Gary D. Goins, Phillip K. Morrison, Gregory L. Puckett, Stephen M. Jacob, Bryan W. McDonald, Jack E. Miller
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Patent number: 7246634Abstract: A fitting for connection to a pipe includes a sleeve, in which a body is axially displaced along a sleeve axis, whereby the body has a drill for drilling into the pipe and/or a valve body of a valve. The fitting also includes a branch sleeve, located in particular on the sleeve and to which a branch line can be connected. The fitting is easily constructed in such a way that safety requirements are reliably met and such that a connection to a branch line can be easily established if necessary. According to another aspect of the fitting, a locking device which includes an actuating element is located in the branch sleeve, in such a way that the locking device is actuated by means of the axially displaceable body in the sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2003Date of Patent: July 24, 2007Assignee: Friatec AktiengesellschaftInventors: Fabian Maier, Wolfgang Sichler
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Patent number: 7225827Abstract: A valve assembly for insertion in a pipe containing fluid under pressure includes a valve body adapted to be assembled over the pipe and a valve-stopping mechanism that mounts on the valve body. The hollow valve body interior and an access opening in the valve body are sufficiently large to receive a hole saw element no smaller than the outside diameter of the pipe as installers advance the hole saw element radially through the access opening to form a gap in the pipe. The valve-stopping mechanism includes a gate with a cross sectional area greater than the pipe that mates with the valve body interior so that the gate can be advanced radially through the gap in the pipe into direct fluid-tight contact of the valve body in order to thereby stop the flow of fluid through the pipe.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: OccludeInventors: Jeffrey L. Maichel, Thomas A. Sovilla
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Patent number: 7219684Abstract: A saddle tee assembly for use with an irrigation line. The saddle tee assembly generally includes a collar portion having a bore therethrough; a strap portion for securing the collar to an irrigation line; and a tool having a passage therethrough with an opening in fluid communication with the passage. The tool may be receivable in the bore for puncturing the irrigation line. In a preferred form, the saddle tee assembly also includes an anti-rotation interface between the collar portion and the tool. The anti-rotation interface includes a first stop on the collar portion and corresponding second stops on the tool. The first and second stops being engageable to align a received tool in a predetermined orientation and restrict unintentional rotation of the tool.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2005Date of Patent: May 22, 2007Assignee: Rain Bird CorporationInventors: Rajiv Dabir, Kevin Girard O'Brien
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Patent number: 7159603Abstract: A method of mechanically hot tapping petroleum equipment that contains a hydrocarbonaceous fluid in its interior by drilling an aperture in such equipment while employing cooling by cyclic drilling and/or refrigeration, the equipment drilling being carried out in a manner such that the temperature of the drill and material being drilled do not exceed a predetermined target temperature that is derived from the decomposition temperature, auto-ignition temperature, and like characteristics of the fluid present inside the equipment.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2005Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Equistar Chemicals, LPInventors: Ralph E. King, Charles R. Rutan
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Patent number: 7150289Abstract: A saddle and tap for lawn and similar irrigation systems. The saddle includes a base portion that snaps on the delivery pipe of the system and a pair of threaded, upright portions that extend upwardly from it. The tap includes a piercing member, barrel section, and threaded annular nut. In operation, the barrel section helps to guide the threaded upright portions of the saddle into the threaded annular nut of the tap. Rotation of the nut then advances the piercing member into the pipe. The tap is releasably lockable on the saddle and the piercing member of the tap is provided with holes with radiused or rounded edges to prevent creating undesirable shavings as the tap is advanced through the pipe wall.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2004Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Inventor: Mark A. Mortensen
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Patent number: RE41263Abstract: A refrigerant charging tool. In a described embodiment, a refrigerant charging tool has two separately formed handles pivotably attached to each other. One of the handles has a container piercing member mounted thereon. Interchangeable spacers are configured for attachment to the other handle, so that a selected one of differently shaped containers may be biased against the container piercing member when the handles are pivoted toward each other.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2005Date of Patent: April 27, 2010Assignee: Technical Chemical CompanyInventor: Newton Howard Dudley