Metal Patents (Class 138/134)
  • Patent number: 6978806
    Abstract: A flexible, armoured pipe has an impermeable inner liner (3), which is surrounded by at least two reinforcement layers (5, 6, 7, 8). Between the reinforcement layers an impermeable membrane (10) is provided, which ensures that fluids do not permeate into the inner reinforcement layers (5, 6) from the pipe's outer reinforcement layers (7, 8). The outer layers are not isolated from influence from the surrounding environment. Moreover, the outer layers (traction reinforcement layers) are protected against the damaging effect of gases, which are diffused out through the flexible pipe. On the outside of the outer traction reinforcement layers (7, 8) a layer (11) can be applied, which is easily permeated by the surroundings, and which protects the traction reinforcement layer against mechanical influences. In this way it is ensured that the pressure reinforcement can absorb forces both from inner as well as outer pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: NKT Flexible I/S
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbol, Jan Christian Rytter
  • Patent number: 6945970
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to catheters for performing medical procedures including percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty. More particularly, the present invention relates to guide catheters, diagnostic catheters and balloon catheters with an improved shaft design. In a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a catheter shaft comprising an elongate support member having an outer surface, the elongate support member preferably defining a lubricious liner; a first layer disposed over the lubricious liner, a second layer disposed over the first layer, a third layer disposed over the second layer, a fourth layer disposed over the third layer, and a fifth layer disposed over the fourth layer. In preferred embodiments, the first and third layers comprise an ultraviolet-curable epoxy which is cured to desired degrees at select axial locations on the shaft to provide desired stiffness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry J. Pepin
  • Patent number: 6926039
    Abstract: A flexible pipe for transporting a fluid comprising an outer sealing polymer sheath, at least a pair of armor wraps helically and long-pitch wound, and a polymer pressure sheath. The pressure sheath consists of an inner tube arranged in an outer tube, and grooves are arranged on at least one of the surfaces opposite the inner and outer tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventor: Alain Marion
  • Patent number: 6904939
    Abstract: A flexible tubular pipe for hydrocarbon transport, comprising from inside to outside at least a carcass, an inner sheath, tensile armoring plies and an outer sheath, wherein the carcass is formed by winding of at least an anti-corrosive elongated metal element with large cross-section, with successive windings stapled with a thin anti-corrosive metal strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventors: Patrice Joël Louis Jung, François Dupoiron
  • Patent number: 6899140
    Abstract: A flexible pipe and a method of manufacturing same according to which a tubular sheath is provided that defines a longitudinal passage for receiving a conveyed fluid, a tape is formed by a plurality of metal fibers supported by a strip of flexible material to form a tape, and the tape is wound around the sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Wellstream International Limited
    Inventors: Dana J. Fraser, Colin Soens
  • Patent number: 6889718
    Abstract: Flexible, armored pipes and methods of using the same are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the flexible, armored pipe includes an inner liner which is surrounded by a pressure armor. The inner liner may be built-up by joining together profiles that have a number of recesses. In one embodiment, the profiles are configured as K-profiles, which have recesses that are arranged in adjoining surfaces of the profile. When the profiles are brought together, the recesses form a cavity in which a locking element can be inserted, the function of which is to prevent displacement of the K-profiles at right-angles to the axial direction of the pipe when exposed to axial, compressive forces. The locking element can be I-shaped, circular or configured as a wire with a C-shaped cross-section. The locking element can also be made either of a rigid or an elastic, deformable material. With a C-shaped locking element, the whole of the cavity, which is formed by the recesses, is not filled out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: NKT Flexibles I/S
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbøl, Jakob Wedel-Heinen, Jan Christian Rytter
  • Patent number: 6883551
    Abstract: A braided hose reinforcement (14) comprises left and right turning strips (20, 22). Each of said strips comprises a number of steel wires. The steel wires (24) located at the side regions of the strips have a tensile strength which is substantially lower than the tensile strength of the steel wires of the central region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: N.V. Bekaert S.A.
    Inventors: Luc Bourgois, Paul Dambre, Dirk Meersschaut, Luc Ravelingien
  • Patent number: 6843278
    Abstract: The invention concerns a flexible duct (1) comprising from inside outwards a carcass (2) produced by a short-pitched metallic helical winding forming butt gaps (12), an overlapping layer (10) acting as a heat shield consisting of helically wound plastic strips (10a, 10b), a sealed inner pressure sheath (3), extruded in plastic on said overlapping layer (10), at least an armouring web (5) and at least an outer sealing sheath (7). The invention is characterised in that the overlapping strips (10a, 10b) are wound at a winding angle less than 35°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventor: Philippe François Espinasse
  • Patent number: 6838141
    Abstract: A hose of a laminated structure which comprises a rubber layer composed of a rubber composition, and a laminate including a metal foil and a resin, the rubber composition including: (A) a rubber including at least one of an ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer and an ethylene-propylene copolymer; (B) a peroxide vulcanizing agent; (C) a resorcinol compound; and (D) a melamine resin. The hose is light in weight, less costly, and has excellent gas barrier properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ayumu Ikemoto, Motoshige Hibino, Hidehito Ikeda, Kazutaka Katayama
  • Publication number: 20040261878
    Abstract: A flexible tubular pipe for hydrocarbon transport, comprising from inside to outside at least a carcass, an inner sheath, tensile armoring plies and an outer sheath, wherein the carcass is formed by winding of at least an anti-corrosive elongated metal element with large cross-section, with successive windings stapled with a thin anti-corrosive metal strip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventors: Patrice Joel Louis Jung, Francois Dupoiron
  • Publication number: 20040256019
    Abstract: A flexible pipe for transporting a fluid comprising an outer sealing polymer sheath, at least a pair of armor wraps helically and long-pitch wound, and a polymer pressure sheath. The pressure sheath consists of an inner tube arranged in an outer tube, and grooves are arranged on at least one of the surfaces opposite the inner and outer tubes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: Alain Marion
  • Publication number: 20040244858
    Abstract: Disclosed is a spiral hose which includes a hard spiral member made from polyethylene and a thin soft spiral member made from polyethylene tarpaulin, and which can be used not only as a general hose but also as a gas duct or a watering hose. The spiral hose is wound in a spiral shape to have flexibility. The spiral hose comprises: a hard member made from polyethylene, which is wound in a spiral shape with a uniform spiral gap formed between turns of the hard member, and a soft member having a shape of a band and being formed of polyethylene tarpaulin, the soft member being disposed along the spiral gap while lateral edges of the soft member are fixed to portions of the hard member, which are disposed oppositely on both sides of the spiral gap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventor: In-Seon Jeong
  • Patent number: 6827109
    Abstract: A flexible hose and a method for manufacturing the same includes a hose tube having a smooth exterior surface. The hose tube exterior surface has a fabric and cover laminated or wrapped thereon. The lead end of a single wire is helically wound about the hose tube on top of the cover. The wire in turn is at least partially encased by a rubber ridge preferably having a height greater than the thickness of the hose tube wall. The rubber ridge tapers in the direction of valleys formed between the ridges, and the resulting hose structure has improved flexibility by enabling the hose to flex at every valley, yet sufficient strength for heavy duty applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Salem-Republic Rubber Company
    Inventor: Donald C. McCaughtry
  • Patent number: 6827108
    Abstract: A single wire cable conduit provided having a rhomboid-shaped wire including approximately parallel sides, a rounded first end, and a tapered second end. The wire is serpentine wound into a hollow tubular body having a plurality of approximately parallel adjoining wire loops. The wire loops each have the rounded first end positioned in continuous displaceable contact with the tapered second end of an adjacent loop. As the hollow tubular body deflects, each wire loop displaces relative to its adjacent wire loop. Each rounded first end is able to rotate and translate along the abutting tapered second end reducing both conduit bending resistance and potential friction damage to either a sleeve or cable and to a jacket covering the hollow tubular body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Emile A. M. Bakker
  • Publication number: 20040194838
    Abstract: A reinforced flexible pipeline (1), which has an inner liner (3) whose inner side engages an inner reinforcement layer (2) that may be formed by a so-called carcass, and on whose outer side at least a strength-imparting reinforcement layer (4, 5, 6, 7) is provided, has an additional barrier layer (9, 10, 11) which is arranged between the inner liner and the inner reinforcement layer. The additional barrier layer is thermally insulating and/or chemically protecting. The additional barrier layer may be formed as a tape (9) which is wound around the inner reinforcement layer, or may be composed of locking profiles (10, 11) which are wound around the flexible pipeline in a helix. The additional barrier layer (9, 10, 11) may be made completely or partly of a polymer which may be thermoplastic, or is cross-linked completely or partly. Hereby, the pipe may be protected against temperatures above e.g. 13° C. and may also be protected against attacks from methanol that contains water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbol, Jakob Wedel-Heinen
  • Publication number: 20040182462
    Abstract: A flexible armoured pipe, which comprises an inner liner, which is surrounded by a pressure armour, is built up by the joining together of profiles, which have a number of recesses. According to the invention, the profiles are configured as K-profiles (10, 16, 17), which have recesses (10a, 10b, 10c, 10d), which are arranged in adjoining surfaces of the profile. When the profiles are brought together, the recesses form a cavity in which a locking element (12, 14, 18) can be inserted, the function of which is to prevent displacement of the K-profiles at right-angles to the axial direction of the pipe when this is exposed to axial, compressive forces. The locking element can be I-shaped (14), be circular or be configured as a wire (18) with a C-shaped cross-section. The locking element can also be made either of a rigid or an elastic, deformable material. With a C-shaped locking element, the whole of the cavity, which is formed by the recesses, is not filled out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Applicant: NKT FLEXIBLES I/S
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbol, Jakob Wedel-Heinen, Jan Christian Rytter
  • Patent number: 6739355
    Abstract: Flexible, armored pipes and methods of using the same are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, the flexible, armored pipe includes an inner liner which is surrounded by a pressure armor. The inner liner may be built-up by joining together profiles that have a number of recesses. In one embodiment, the profiles are configured as K-profiles, which have recesses that are arranged in adjoining surfaces of the profile. When the profiles are brought together, the recesses form a cavity in which a locking element can be inserted, the function of which is to prevent displacement of the K-profiles at right-angles to the axial direction of the pipe when exposed to axial, compressive forces. The locking element can be I-shaped, circular or configured as a wire with a C-shaped cross-section. The locking element can also be made either of a rigid or an elastic, deformable material. With a C-shaped locking element, the whole of the cavity, which is formed by the recesses, is not filled out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2004
    Assignee: NKT Flexibles I/S
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbøl, Jakob Wedel-Heinen, Jan Christian Rytter
  • Publication number: 20040060610
    Abstract: The invention concerns a flexible duct (1) comprising from inside outwards a carcass (2) produced by a short-pitched metallic helical winding forming butt gaps (12), an overlapping layer (10) acting as a heat shield consisting of helically wound plastic strips (10a, 10b), a sealed inner pressure sheath (3), extruded in plastic on said overlapping layer (10), at least an armouring web (5) and at least an outer sealing sheath (7). The invention is characterised in that the overlapping strips (10a, 10b) are wound at a winding angle less than 35°.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Philippe Francois Espinasse
  • Publication number: 20040055657
    Abstract: A flexible tubular pipe comprising a metal carcass helically coiled about a longitudinal axis of said flexible pipe and the carcass comprises a seamed profiled hollow tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Publication date: March 25, 2004
    Inventors: Philippe Espinasse, Patrice Joel Luis Jung, Daniel Averbuch, Francois Dupoiron
  • Publication number: 20040050442
    Abstract: A flexible armoured pipe is built up of three layers, i.e. an impermeable liner (2a), an inner armouring layer (1a) and an outer armouring layer (3a). A flexible pipe, especially for offshore applications, is hereby provided, where the inner armouring layer is in contact with the fluid, which shall be transported in the pipe, while the outer armouring layer and the impermeable liner are in contact with the surroundings. This means that the inner armouring layer absorbs the hydrostatic pressure acting on the impermeable liner. Moreover, since no substantial restrictions to mass transport exist outside the impermeable liner, gases, which diffuse through the impermeable liner, will now be able to escape to the surroundings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbol, Niels-Jorgen Rishoi Nielsen
  • Patent number: 6701969
    Abstract: A flexible pipe and a method of manufacturing same according to which an inner sheath is surrounded by at least one tensile layer, and an outer sheath of polymeric material consisting of an olefin polymer blended with at least one thermoset elastomer is disposed around the tensile layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Wellstream International Limited
    Inventor: Brian Scott Wilson
  • Patent number: 6691743
    Abstract: A flexible tubular pipe having, from the inside outwards, at least, a carcass of an interlocked metal strip, an internal sealing sheath, a cylindrical pressure vault of a winding of an interlocked profiled metal wire wound in a helix with a short pitch, at least one ply of tensile armor wires wound with a long pitch, a wire wound with a short pitch over the ply of armor wires, the wires having a deformable sheath that partially penetrates the gaps between the windings in the at least one ply of armor wires, and an external protective sealing sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Coflexip
    Inventor: Philippe Espinasse
  • Publication number: 20040025953
    Abstract: A flexible pipe and a method of manufacturing same according to which a tubular sheath is provided that defines a longitudinal passage for receiving a conveyed fluid, a tape is formed by a plurality of metal fibers supported by a strip of flexible material to form a tape, and the tape is wound around the sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Publication date: February 12, 2004
    Applicant: Wellstream, Inc.
    Inventors: Dana J. Fraser, Colin Soens
  • Patent number: 6679298
    Abstract: It is of the type comprising at least two reinforcing armour plies (3-6) wound in opposite senses about a longitudinal axis (A—A) and at least one pressure sheath (7), which can collapse in a given direction under the action of external pressure greater than the internal pressure in the said collapsible pipe, the collapse being able to cause a transverse elongation of the said pressure sheath, and it is characterized in that at least one stiffener (8, 9) is provided on at least one surface (7a) of the said pressure sheath, which is made of a thermoplastic, so as, during collapse, to limit the said elongation to a value of less than the elongation threshold of the said thermoplastic. Application especially to the transporting of hydrocarbons in offshore operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Coflexip
    Inventor: Philippe Espinasse
  • Patent number: 6668866
    Abstract: An armoured flexible pipe consists of an inner liner (3), on the inside of which a carcass (1) is provided, while the outer side of the inner liner is surrounded by a layer of pressure armour and a layer of tensile armour, which in turn are surrounded by one or more layers of thermally insulating bands which are shielded from the surroundings by an outer sheath. With the object of ensuring a sufficiently low transport of heat through the walls of the pipe, on the outside of the pressure and tensile armour layers (5, 6, 7, 8) thermally insulating bands are provided, which bands are made of a polymer or a polymeric composition, such as a polymer containing at least 50% polypropylene. The armoured flexible pipe according to the invention is especially advantageous for use in the extraction, transport or refining of mineral oil or related fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: NKT Flexibles I/S
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbol, Jakob Wedel-Heinen
  • Publication number: 20030178083
    Abstract: A flexible hose and a method for manufacturing the same includes a hose tube having a smooth exterior surface. The hose tube exterior surface has a fabric and cover laminated or wrapped thereon. The lead end of a single wire is helically wound about the hose tube on top of the cover. The wire in turn is at least partially encased by a rubber ridge preferably having a height greater than the thickness of the hose tube wall. The rubber ridge tapers in the direction of valleys formed between the ridges, and the resulting hose structure has improved flexibility by enabling the hose to flex at every valley, yet sufficient strength for heavy duty applications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Applicant: Salem-Republic Rubber Company
    Inventor: Donald C. McCaughtry
  • Patent number: 6619329
    Abstract: A hose comprising a laminate including a rubber layer comprising a rubber composition containing as essential components (A) a rubber made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of an ethylene-propylene-diene terpolymer and an ethylene-propylene copolymer, (B) a vulcanizing agent containing a peroxide, (C) a resorcinol compound, and (D) a melamine resin; and a layer made of at least one material selected from the group consisting of a polyamide resin, an ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, and a metal. In such hose, the rubber layer and the non-rubber layer made of the polyamide resin, the ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer, or of the metal adhere well to each other, without applying an adhesive to an interface therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ayumu Ikemoto, Hidehito Ikeda, Kazutaka Katayama, Motoshige Hibino, Yoshio Okado
  • Publication number: 20030155029
    Abstract: An armoured flexible pipe consists of an inner liner (3), on the inside of which a carcass (1) is provided, while the outer side of the inner liner is surrounded by a layer of pressure armour and a layer of tensile armour, which in turn are surrounded by one or more layers of thermally insulating bands which are shielded from the surroundings by an outer sheath. With the object of ensuring a sufficiently low transport of heat through the walls of the pipe, on the outside of the pressure and tensile armour layers (5, 6, 7, 8) thermally insulating bands are provided, which bands are made of a polymer or a polymeric composition, such as a polymer containing at least 50% polypropylene. The armoured flexible pipe according to the invention is especially advantageous for use in the extraction, transport or refining of mineral oil or related fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventors: Kristian Glejbol, Jakob Wedel-Heinen
  • Publication number: 20030140977
    Abstract: The flexible pipe comprises a plastic sealing sheath and, an inner plastic sheath which define an annular space in which structural elements are placed, the said structural elements comprising at least one armour ply consisting of metal wires wound helically with a long pitch, a end fitting (12, 13) being fitted at each end of the said flexible pipe (1), the device (14) comprising at least one external anode electrically connected by connection means to the said armour ply, and it is characterized in that the anode is placed in an intermediate region (40) of the flexible pipe (1) distal from the said end fittings, the connection means connecting the anode to at least one of the metal wires in the said intermediate region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2002
    Publication date: July 31, 2003
    Inventors: Hugues Berton, Jean-Louis Streiff
  • Patent number: 6561228
    Abstract: In a method for producing helically wound lock-seam tubing, a metal strip is fed to a forming head in which the tubing is formed. In order to frictionally interlock this lock seam, a flexible string is inserted into and compressed in the lock seam during manufacture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2003
    Assignee: Protol A.G.
    Inventor: Kenneth Lennartsson
  • Patent number: 6550502
    Abstract: A structure of a multilayer tube includes at least one layer made of a composite material (2-8) having reinforcing fibers embedded in a polymer matrix, and at least one sealing sheath (1) made of a low-permeability polymer material. The tube has a metal carcass (9) interior to the sheath. In a variant, the carcass is made of stapled steel tape (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventor: Pierre Odru
  • Publication number: 20030070719
    Abstract: Flexible metal tube having a box element and flexible pipe comprising such a metal tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    Inventors: Philippe Espinasse, Patrice Jo?euml;l Louis Jung, Daniel Averbuch, Fran?ccedil;ois Dupoiron
  • Publication number: 20030024585
    Abstract: The present invention provides a tubular member construction capable of preventing the end portion of a flexible pipe formed of a band member from coming loose without costing. The flexible pipe is formed by winding a metallic tubular member in a spiral shape in an overlapped manner, and a plurality of wavy corrugations are formed on the peripheral wall surface of the flexible pipe continuously in the axial direction. In order to prevent a band member located in an end portion of the flexible pipe from coming loose, collapsed portions are formed on corrugations located in the end portions of the tubular member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Kunio Otsuka
  • Patent number: 6513552
    Abstract: A drain hose that connects to the movable roof of a petroleum storage tank. The hose extends downwardly through the material stored in the tank and to a discharge at the lower portion of the tank. The hose is comprised of (a) an inner stainless steel tube(or hose) having a stainless steel over-braid and (b) a spirally wound outer tube (or hose) also of stainless steel. The inner hose is connected to flanges that have ferrules extending therefrom. The outer protective hose is captured in a free floating manner by the ferrules such that the outer hose is allowed to move along or slide over the inner hose without escaping the end ferrules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: General Machinery of Pittsburgh, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald D. Shepherd
  • Publication number: 20020195157
    Abstract: A flexible metal hose formed by a helically wound metal having an “S” shaped cross-section. The strip is provided with projections and recessions, with projections and recessions of adjoining convolutions meshed, enabling hose flexure without unwrapping. First and second resiliently engaged sealing surfaces extend helically along the hose to block leakage via the projections and recessions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Applicant: HOSE MASTER, INC.
    Inventors: Sam J. Foti, Santo Foti
  • Patent number: 6474366
    Abstract: A flexible-pipe (10). for high pressure is provided with. a sublayer (11) made of natural or synthetic rubber or man-made polymers in general, and with a first and a second stiffening layer (12, 14), which are superimposed and both consist of a high-resistance metal spiral, whereby the spiral can have one or more wires. Between the first (12) and the second (14) layer there is interposed a skim coat (13) made of natural or synthetic rubber or man-made polymers in general. The flexible pipe (10) for high pressure is also coated with a coating (15) made of natural or synthetic rubber or man-made polymers in general.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Cidat S.p.A.
    Inventor: Annibale Bruno
  • Publication number: 20020157723
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a structure of a multilayer tube comprising at least one layer made of a composite material (2-8) consisting of reinforcing fibers embedded in a polymer matrix, at least one sealing sheath (1) made of a low-permeability polymer material. The tube further comprises a metal casing (9) interior to the sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventor: Pierre Odru
  • Publication number: 20020117226
    Abstract: Reinforced corrugated tubing comprising corrugated tubing having peaks and valleys and a reinforcement material disposed in the valleys. A method of reinforcing corrugated tubing comprises disposing a reinforcement material in valleys of the corrugated tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventor: John A. Malcarne
  • Patent number: 6431217
    Abstract: One version of the liquid transport device includes: a liquid conduit having a first end with a liquid-receiving opening, a second end with a liquid-dispensing opening, and a conduit-reinforcing member, the conduit-reinforcing member having a length of corrugated flexible tubing; and a faucet fastener connected to the liquid conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventor: Robert S. Robinson
  • Patent number: 6425418
    Abstract: A flexible tube having a construction in which a coil of metal is coated with a film of resin. The flexible tube is manufactured by that resin is vapor-deposited on a peripheral face of a thermocontraction tube. a metal wire is wound on the tube as to be coiled, resin is vapor-deposited on the coil, and the thermocontraction tube is contracted by heating and drawn out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Cable Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeo Maeda, Masayoshi Esashi, Yoichi Haga
  • Patent number: 6418971
    Abstract: A flexible metal conduit is disclosed that comprises a thin metal ribbon arranged in a helix about a longitudinal axis. Convolutions of the helix are disposed adjacent each other with the ribbon defining helical, sinuously corrugated inwardly and outwardly facing conduit surfaces forming radially inner and radially outer apices that are spaced substantially evenly apart and extend parallel to the convolution edges. A first ribbon edge region is defined by a partial corrugation and a flange extending radially from the partial corrugation. A second ribbon edge region is defined by a second partial corrugation and a second flange extending radially from the second partial corrugation. The first and second partial corrugations abut to form a helical seam running along the convolution junctures. The first and second edge flanges abut at the corrugation seam and are interlocked to secure the convolutions together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Hose Master, Inc.
    Inventors: Sam J. Foti, Santo Foti
  • Patent number: 6408891
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a flexible tubular pipe for carrying fluids under pressure containing H2S and to a method for designing such a flexible pipe. The pipe includes a body (7), an internal sealing sheath (8), at least one steel armouring layer (9,10) withstanding the stresses induced by the inside/outside pressure difference, and at least one traction-resisting steel armouring layer (11, 12) spirally wound at an angle less than 45° in relation to the axis of the pipe. In this pipe, at least the armouring layer withstanding the stresses induced by the inside/outside pressure difference is made of a determined steel meeting H2S resistance criteria, and at least the traction-resisting armouring layer is made from steel wires that do not meet H2S resistance criteria.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignees: Institut Francais du Petrole, Coflexip
    Inventors: Patrice Jung, José Mallen Herrero, Jean-Marc Leroy, Xavier Longaygue
  • Patent number: 6401760
    Abstract: This one-piece subsea flexible multilayer tubular pipe comprises a carcass (1) made of interlocked metal strip, an inner sealing sheath (2) made of a polymer material, a winding of an interlocked metal element (3) wound in a helix with a short pitch, at least one ply (5) of tensile armor layers wound with a long pitch around the pressure vault, where appropriate at least one thermal insulation layer (7) and an outer protective sealing sheath (8); this pipe has, over its length, sections intended for regions of different use and the physical characteristics of at least one of the layers are modified at manufacture over at least one section of the length of the pipe, without modifying the outside diameter of the said layer, so as to tailor the properties of the pipe in this section to the conditions for the zone in which it will be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Coflexip
    Inventor: Philippe François Espinasse
  • Patent number: 6354333
    Abstract: A tubular flexible pipe which from the inside outward includes an inner sealing sheath of polymer, a cylindrical pressure vault comprised of a helical wire winding with gaps between the windings, perhaps a wound tensile armoring layer and a scaling outer sheath. The vault includes an elongated masking element, at least partially masking the gaps between the windings of the wire and being at the inner sheath, The masking element is a wire helically coiled in a recess at the inner face of the vault or is an axial extension of the vault wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Coflexip
    Inventors: François Dupoiron, Philippe François Espinasse, Patrice Jung
  • Publication number: 20020014271
    Abstract: A flexible pipe (10) for high pressure is provided with a sublayer (11) made of natural or synthetic rubber or man-made polymers in general, and with a first and a second stiffening layer (12, 14), which are superimposed and both consist of a high-resistance metal spiral, whereby the spiral can have one or more wires. Between the first (12) and the second (14) layer there is interposed a skim coat (13) made of natural or synthetic rubber or man-made polymers in general. The flexible pipe (10) for high pressure is also coated with a coating (15) made of natural or synthetic rubber or man-made polymers in general.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Publication date: February 7, 2002
    Inventor: Annibale Bruno
  • Publication number: 20020007860
    Abstract: A metal-composite corrugated hose having a wall including a metal layer forming its innermost layer and a resin layer surrounding it. Its wall has in its corrugated portion a metal layer thickness (A) of at least 20 &mgr;m, but below 200 &mgr;m, and a resin layer thickness (B) of 80 to 5,000 &mgr;m. Each thickness of A and B has a ratio (A:B) of 1:4 to 1:50. The hose is made by a specific process in which the metal and resin layers are not corrugated simultaneously. Thus, there is a provided a metal-composite corrugated hose having high fuel impermeability, flexibility and strength, and having a reinforcing effect sufficient to protect the metal layer from any fatigue failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventors: Kazutaka Katayama, Motoshige Hibino, Atsuo Miyajima, Hiroaki Ito
  • Patent number: 6338365
    Abstract: A flexible piping structure has in combination, from the axis of the pipe towards the exterior, a cylindrical, metal inner sealing tube, a layer resistance to internal and external pressures and a sealing sheath made from extruded plastics material. In one embodiment, an intermediate layer of plastics material is arranged between the tube and the pressure-resistant layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2002
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventor: Pierre Odru
  • Publication number: 20010050111
    Abstract: Armored control cables are described. The control cables include fluid communication tubes and a metal armor layer that surrounds each of the fluid communication tubes. In one described embodiment, there are three fluid communication tubes that are disposed in a parallel relation and maintained in contact with one another. The metal armor layer is in contact with the outer surface of each of the three tubes and is preferable formed of spirally wound metal tape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventors: David H. Neuroth, Thomson Hall Wallace
  • Patent number: 6315002
    Abstract: A flexible hose with one or more couplings, the hose generally having an inner diameter of greater than 50 mm, the hose typically equipped with a plastic liner, steel reinforcing layers, a cover, steel sleeves inside of the couplings, a sealing compound and a screw for adjusting pressure. A section of the plastic inner liner extends into a sealing area. The section of the inner liner is connected to the coupling by the sealing compound such that the connection cannot be broken by nondestructive methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventors: Sandor Antal, Sandor Gelencser, Tibor Nagy, Istavanne Seregely
  • Patent number: 6283161
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a reinforced flexible tube having at least one elongated reinforcing element. According to the invention, this elongated element has a cross section or profile in the form of a T and is wound helically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignees: Institut Francais du Petrole, Coflexip
    Inventors: Jany Feret, José Mallen Herrero