Abstract: Slip joint having a stacked washer seal, a male part and a female part. The female part has a small and a large inner diameter. The male part has substantially constant inner and outer diameters and a ring on the outer diameter. A gap is located between the male and female part. At least two washers and a flat shim are located in the gap. Each washer and flat shim has a first side, a second side, a first end and a second end. The first side of a first washer abuts an end of the male part. A second side of the washer contacts a first side of a flat shim. The second side of the shim contacts the first side of a second washer. The second side of the second washer contacts a first side of a second flat shim or an end of the female part.

Abstract: A method of joining two portions of an underwater pipeline laid on the bed of a body of water to conduct fluid and/or gas, the method including: joining a telescopic sleeve, having a first coupling head, to a first end of a first pipeline portion above the body of water; laying the first end, the telescopic sleeve, and the first coupling head on the bed of the body of water; joining a second coupling head to a second end of a second pipeline portion above the body of water; laying the second end and the second coupling head on the bed of the body of water, close to the first coupling head; roughly aligning the first and second coupling head in the body of water; and clamping the first and second coupling head to each other in the body of water.

Abstract: A method of joining two portions of an underwater pipeline for conducting fluid and/or gas on the bed of a body of water, the method including the steps of: joining a telescopic sleeve, having a first coupling head, to a first end of a first pipeline portion above the body of water; positioning the first end, the telescopic sleeve, and the first coupling head in a first given position on the bed of the body of water; joining a second coupling head to a second end of a second pipeline portion above the body of water; positioning the second end and the second coupling head in a second given position, close to the first coupling head, below the body of water; and connecting the first and second coupling head hermetically below the body of water.

Abstract: The invention provides a system for preventing fluid exchange between the interior and exterior of containment enclosures such as process-, hazard-, and research-enclosure systems generally, gloveboxes, containment systems, isolation systems, confinement systems, cleanrooms, negative air systems, and positive air system areas while simultaneously providing material transfer into and out of the enclosures. The system comprises a cylinder adapted to be received by a region of a containment enclosure forming an aperture so that a hermetic seal exists between the cylinder and the aperture; a canister coaxially positioned within, and in slidable communication with the cylinder such that a hermetic seal exists between the canister and the glove port. The invention also provides a method for transporting material into or out of a containment structure.

Abstract: A high-pressure bi-directional sealing system having outer support rings (30, 32), annular, axial seals (100, 300) between the outer support rings (30, 32), inner support rings (150, 160) located between the annular, axial seals (100, 300) and a redundant seal (200) that is located between the inner support rings (150, 160). The outer support rings (30, 32), seals (100, 300), inner support rings (150, 160) and redundant seal (200) are located within a space between an outer tube (12) and an inner tube (14) that is telescopically disposed within the outer tube (12). Seals (100) and (300) are oriented in opposite directions. Specifically, the opening of seal (100) is facing in a first direction and the opening of seal (300) is facing in a second direction that is opposite the first direction. This configuration enables the high-pressure bi-directional sealing system to handle pressure in both directions.

Abstract: A method of traversing a travel joint with a line can include, after the travel joint has been installed in a well, activating a connector which provides sealed fluid communication between sections of the line on respective opposite sides of the travel joint. A travel joint system for use with a subterranean well can include a travel joint comprising a releasing device which permits relative displacement between sections of the travel joint, and a connector which provides fluid communication between sections of a line.

Abstract: A telescopic joint for a marine drilling riser has an outer barrel and an inner barrel defining a central lumen for passage of a drill pipe string. The inner barrel is received within the outer barrel, and there is a clearance fit between the barrels for sliding of the inner barrel with respect to the outer barrel while maintaining a coaxial relationship between the barrels. A tubular rolling elastomeric membrane is disposed within the outer barrel and has one end secured to an outer circumference of the inner barrel and another end secured to an inner circumference of the outer barrel for sealing drilling fluid within the central lumen. As the inner barrel slides with respect to the outer barrel, the elastomeric membrane rolls with respect to the inner barrel and the outer barrel so that wear of the seal due to abrasion is eliminated.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner suction pipe (1) having first, second, and third pipe segments (2, 3, 4), respectively, the pipe segments (2, 3, 4) being telescopically connected to one another, the first pipe segment (2) being located between the second pipe segment (3) and the third pipe segment (4). There is a control device (5), and the pipe segments (2, 3, 4) are mechanically in interaction with one another via the control device (5) so that when the second pipe segment (3) or the third pipe segment (4) is moved manually in an axial direction relative to the first pipe segment (2) the respective other of the second or third pipe segment (3, 4) is moved at the same time by the control device (5).

Abstract: The present invention regards a joint for use in a riser (1) extending between a floating installation (3) and a subsea installation (2). The joint comprises an inner pipe segment (21) and an outer pipe segments (22), arranged moveable relative each other in an axial direction and connectable to respective riser segments, forming a chamber (23) between them with a radially extending piston (24), dividing the chamber (23) in a first chamber part (25) and a second chamber part (26), wherein on of said chamber parts (25) in an initial position of the joint is adapted to contain a mainly incompressible fluid, this chamber part (25) decreasing in volume as the inner pipe segment (21) is moved relatively out of the outer pipe segment (22).

Abstract: A connector for a hydrocarbon system includes a first duct section, a first connector part slidably attached to the first duct section for connecting to a complementary connector part attached to a second duct section and a retraction member for moving the first connector part in an axial direction between an extended position and a retracted position.

Abstract: A suction connection, including a first flange that includes a centrally located through hole and is arranged to be connected to an outlet of a suction pipe and a second flange that includes a centrally located through hole and that is arranged to be connected to an inlet of a dry installed centrifugal pump. The suction connection includes a first pipe socket, which is displacable in the axial direction between an operative position in which said first pipe socket disengageably connects the first flange and the second flange and thereby puts the through hole of the first flange in fluid communication with the through hole of the second flange, and a service position in which the first pipe socket is located at a distance from the second flange and thereby admit access to the through hole of the second flange.

Abstract: A retractable pipe structure of an air blow gun includes an extension pipe, a lock unit and a blow pipe. The extension pipe has a through hole therein for insertion of the blow pipe. The lock unit includes a connection member. One end of the connection member is connected to the extension pipe. The other end of the connection member is connected to a lock member. An elastic collet and a seal member are provided in the lock member. The end of the connection member has an inner inclined surface which is inclined inward. Because the inner inclined surface guides the seal member and the elastic collet pushes the seal member, the seal member is deformed to tighten the blow pipe and to seal the extension pipe. The elastic collet can clamp the blow pipe and won't damage the blow pipe.

Abstract: A first component has a major section and a coaxial minor section. The major section has an open forward end. A forward annular projection extends radially inwardly from the major section adjacent to the open forward end. A second component has a major section and a coaxial minor section. The major section has an open rearward end. A rearward annular projection extends radially outwardly from the major section adjacent to the open rearward end. Axially spaced annular recesses are provided in the rearward annular projection with an O-ring in each annular recess. The O-rings are slidably received and in sliding contact with the major section of the first component.

Abstract: A retractable pipe assembly of an air blow gun includes an extension pipe, a lock unit and a blow pipe. The extension pipe has a stepped through hole which has a large diameter part and a small diameter part for insertion of the blow pipe. One end of extension pipe has an inner inclined surface which is inclined inward. The lock unit includes a lock member. The lock member is connected to the extension pipe. An elastic collet and a seal member are provided in the lock member. Because the inner inclined surface of the extension pipe guides the seal member and the elastic collet pushes the seal member, the seal member is deformed to tighten the blow pipe and to seal the extension pipe. The elastic collet can clamp the blow pipe and won't damage the blow pipe.

Abstract: The tube (60) includes first and second portions (66, 58) that each have mating spherical sections (82, 84) at adjacent ends (72, 74) of each portion (66, 68). The second portion (68) includes a spring sleeve (92) configured to surround an outlet end (72) of the first portion (66). A spring (102) is captured inside the spring sleeve (92) and secured between a retaining clip (100) and a shoulder (88) protruding from the exterior surface of an outlet end (72) of the first portion (66) to maintain fluid seals between the spherical sections (82, 84). The spherical sections (82, 84) permit slidable motion relative to each other thereby facilitating rotational and angular motion between the tube portions (66, 68). One of the two portions (66, 68) may include a telescope mount (110) to permit limited axial motion of the tube (60).

Abstract: A wand for an appliance includes first and second tubes and a support mechanism, in which the second tube slides telescopically within the first tube along a common axis. The first and second tubes are arranged to be selectively secured to one another in an extended position or to allow movement therebetween and the support mechanism is located between overlapping portions of the tubes. The support mechanism includes tapered portions arranged to provide support between the tubes at separate points along the common axis of the tubes. By supporting adjacent tubes at a plurality of points along the common axis, the tubes are held more firmly with respect to one another. One tapered portion is able to move with respect to the tubes along the common axis, which reduces play between the tubes.

Abstract: A flexible expansion joint is capable coping with a great extension for its limited length. The flexible expansion joint includes: a first sleeve to be put on an end part of a first pipe; an outer sleeve to be put on an end part of a second pipe so as to overlap the first sleeve and capable of moving axially relative to the first sleeve; a first sealing member; a second sealing member; a third sealing member; a first length limiter including a first stopper for limiting the axial movement of the first pipe and the first sleeve relative to each other; and a second length limiter including a second stopper for limiting the axial movement of the second pipe the outer sleeve relative to each other.

Abstract: An adjustable coupling assembly and drain inlet combination for adjusting the height of the drain inlet for draining a fluid from an area is disclosed. The assembly includes a first tubular cylinder having a first end which is constructed to be attached to the inlet of drain tile, and a second tubular cylinder having a first end which is constructed to be attached to the discharge of the drain inlet. One of the tubular cylinders has an end which is constructed to extend into the other tubular cylinder. A spiral groove on one of the tubular cylinders extends over a substantial portion of the length of that cylinder, and at least one projection is positioned on the other tubular cylinder and is positionable to extend into the spiral groove whereby when one of the tubular cylinders is rotated relative to the other tubular cylinder, the projection moves along the spiral groove, to adjust the total combined length of the first and second tubular cylinders and the height of the drain inlet.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner suction pipe (1) having first, second, and third pipe segments (1, 2, 3), respectively, the pipe segments (2, 3, 4) being telescopically connected to one another, the first pipe segment (2) being located between the second pipe segment (3) and the third pipe segment (4). So as to be easily manufactured and have an actuation that is optimized with respect to its telescoping ability, there is a control device (5), and the pipe segments (2, 3, 4) are mechanically in interaction with one another via the control device (5) so that when the second pipe segment (3) or the third pipe segment (4) is moved manually in an axial direction relative to the first pipe segment (2) the respective other of the second or third pipe segment (3, 4) is moved at the same time by the control device (5).

Abstract: A telescopic extension for a household appliance comprises: an inner tube and outer tube, with the inner and outer tubes being telescopically slidable with respect to each other A constraining device is configured so as to block sliding of the inner tube with respect to the outer tube An actuating device is operatively connected to a slider. The actuating device comprises a substantially cylindrical body fitted on at least part of the outer surface of the outer tube. The substantially cylindrical body comprises at least one opening positioned to expose a surface of the outer tube whereby grip of user on the substantially cylindrical body may also contact the exposed surface of the outer tube and lock the cylindrical body with respect to the outer tube.

Abstract: A telescoping containment cleanout device for attachment to a cleanout pipe comprising: an inner riser portion and an outer housing, where the inner riser portion and outer housing create a channel; a telescoping portion, where the telescoping portion extends vertically through the channel; a cap at the top of the device, where the cap includes a removable sealing portion for access and cleaning of the sewer line; and stops within the channel and along the telescoping portion, where the stops provide a means to lock the telescoping portion in a vertically elevated position. The telescoping containment cleanout device may further include a plurality of o-rings within the channel, where the o-rings assist in guiding the telescoping portion through the channel. The telescoping containment cleanout device may further include a twisting sealing portion that seals the telescoping portion in a closed position.

Abstract: A blowout containment system is permanently positioned on the wellhead. The blowout containment system is relatively inexpensive, is always available and in place, it does not interfere with normal drilling operations, will capture all of the oil and gas emitted by the blowout, does not require special or unique sea surface or underwater apparatus or vessels, does not have any operational requirements that are different than those which drilling crews normally use and are already familiar, and is activated the using actions are similar to those used by drilling crews for well drilling and completion.

Abstract: A microfluidic connector (1) comprises an enclosure (6, 7), a fluidic inlet port (2) and a fluidic outlet port (3), in the enclosure, in which the inlet and outlet ports (2, 3) are movable with respect to each other, for example, mutual spacing between the inlet and outlet ports (2, 3) is variable. A port (2) is in a fixed part (6) of the enclosure, and another port (3) is in a part (7) of the enclosure which slides with respect to the fixed part. There may be multiple inlet ports (22, 23) and/or multiple outlet ports (24, 25). Also, there may be an auxiliary port (45) for introduction of fluid into the enclosure (47, 48) or removal of fluid from the enclosure.

Abstract: A telescoping tube for fuel transfer operations has a fixed part and a moving part, the moving part further having a dynamic sealing system which guarantees the sealing of the moving part against the fixed part, a cushioning system which absorbs the energy of the impact of the moving part against the fixed part in operations for extending and retracting the tube and protection systems against electrical discharges which ground the moving part to the fixed part, the aforementioned dynamic sealing, cushioning and protection systems all being incorporated in a single unit in the moving part of the telescoping tube. Additionally, the invention relates to an in-flight refuelling system for a tanker aeroplane, to carry out in-flight fuel transfer operations to a receiving aircraft, having a telescoping tube with the abovementioned characteristics.

Abstract: A riser seal cartridge for an irrigation sprinkler. The cartridge is formed of a rigid self support shell, and a sealing member formed of a resilient material covering the shell in areas which provide the seal. The sealing member includes a first portion which seals the top end of the sprinkler body, a second portion which seals an outer surface of the riser, a third portion which connects the first and second portions, and a fourth portion extending from the third seal portion which provides a seal for the support shell lower end portion. The first seal portion provides a high pressure seal to prevent leakage when the riser is in a fully extended position; and the second seal portion provides a low pressure seal during pressure build-up as the riser is extending.

Abstract: An air duct assembly supplies air from an air cleaner housing to an engine throttle and includes a first duct connected to the air cleaner housing and a second duct connected to the engine air intake. Open ends of the first and second ducts are spaced from one another and the second duct has a flared bell mouth at its open end. The second duct includes a sleeve that defines an attenuation chamber. A flexible bellows overlies the first and second ducts and the sleeve, and extends across the space between the first and second ducts to provide an airtight connection therebetween and flex during relative motion between the air cleaner housing and the engine air intake. A hydrocarbon adsorbing material can be housed within the attenuation chamber.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for connecting two sub-flow systems (e.g. airplane fuel tanks) and conveying a fluid between the two sub-systems using a pressured balanced transfer tube, particularly when there are large radial and axial movements or offsets between the sub-systems. Unlike conventional fluid transfer systems, the present apparatus allows for the pressure in the transfer tube to be balanced to internalize the pressure forces and prevent the exertion of pressure forces on the sub-systems connected to the transfer tube.

Abstract: A travel joint (100) for space out operations in a wellbore. The travel joint (100) includes a generally tubular mandrel assembly (112) and a generally tubular housing assembly (102) slidably disposed about the mandrel assembly (112). The mandrel assembly (112) included an infinite slot (118) and at least one axial slot (120). A lock assembly (128) is positioned between the mandrel assembly (112) and the housing assembly (102). The lock assembly (128) is operable to selectively prevent and allow relative axial movement between the mandrel assembly (112) and the housing assembly (102). A floating lug ring (140) is positioned between the mandrel assembly (112) and the housing assembly (102). The floating lug ring (140) includes at least one lug (142) and is operable to rotate relative to the mandrel assembly (112) and the housing assembly (102) when the lug (142) travels in the infinite slot (118).

Abstract: An apparatus for lengthening an extendible pipe comprised of first and second pipe portions having an interior includes a cylinder having an end wall and an open end connected to the first pipe portion. A piston is received in slidable and sealable engagement with the cylinder and is connected to the second pipe portion. The piston, cylinder and end wall define a chamber that is physically isolated from the interior of the pipe. Introduction of a control fluid into the chamber displaces the piston relative to the cylinder so as to lengthen the pipe. The apparatus above may be applied to a sprinkler head riser apparatus and buried as part of an in-ground sprinkler system.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner suction pipe (1) having first, second, and third pipe segments (1, 2, 3), respectively, the pipe segments (2, 3, 4) being telescopically connected to one another, the first pipe segment (2) being located between the second pipe segment (3) and the third pipe segment (4). So as to be easily manufactured and have an actuation that is optimized with respect to its telescoping ability, there is a control device (5), and the pipe segments (2, 3, 4) are mechanically in interaction with one another via the control device (5) so that when the second pipe segment (3) or the third pipe segment (4) is moved manually in an axial direction relative to the first pipe segment (2) the respective other of the second or third pipe segment (3, 4) is moved at the same time by the control device (5).

Abstract: A telescoping boom pole for an electrical conductor is disclosed. The boom pole includes at least a top cylindrical conduit slidably assembled within a second cylindrical conduit. A top clamping means is included for selectively clamping the top conduit to the second conduit. The top clamping means includes an annular cylindrical collar having a threaded portion proximate a bottom edge on an inside surface thereof, and a collet restraining means proximate a top edge thereof. An annular, compressible collet is resiliently captured by the collet restraining means of the collar at a cooperative restraining means of an outside surface of the collet. The collet further includes an inclined lower portion on an outside surface thereof. The top clamping means further includes an annular sleeve fixed to a top end of the second conduit, and has an outside surface that includes a threaded portion that cooperates with the threaded portion of the collar.

Abstract: An adjustable fracturing system is provided. In one embodiment, the system includes a fracturing manifold coupled to a fracturing tree to allow the fracturing tree to receive fracturing fluid from the fracturing manifold. The system also includes an adjustment joint configured to be varied in length to facilitate coupling of the fracturing manifold to the fracturing tree. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: An adjustable fracturing system is provided. In one embodiment, the system includes a fracturing manifold coupled to a fracturing tree having a fracturing head. The fracturing head includes an adjustable body that enables variation of a dimension of the body and facilitates connection of the fracturing manifold to the fracturing tree. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A repair coupling for joining a first pipe with a second pipe includes (a) a hollow body having a first open end, a second open end, and a passageway the interior surface of the body defining a peripheral, helical body edge terminating in a body edge locking lug, and (b) a hollow tubular insert slidably disposed within the body, the tubular insert having a first open end and a second open end, the tubular insert defining a passageway he exterior surface of the tubular insert defining a peripheral, helical insert edge terminating in an insert edge locking lug. The tubular insert is slidable between (i) a first insert position wherein the helical insert edge is in contract with the helical body edge and (ii) a second insert position wherein the helical insert edge is spaced apart from the helical body edge.

Abstract: The disclosure provides faucets, faucet assemblies and methods for delivering liquid through a faucet. The faucet includes a faucet body having a first open end configured for connection with a faucet base, a second open end for receiving a faucet handle, and a faucet body portion having an opening therein. The faucet body has an inner wall defining a passage extending therethrough. The faucet also includes a faucet handle and a spray handle having a first end section and a sprayer end section. The first end section is configured to be detachably connected to the faucet body portion, and the spray handle has an inner wall and a passage extending therethrough which is in open communication with the passage through the faucet body. The faucet also has a hose connection that can receive a hose for delivering liquid to the spray handle. The hose connection may be in the sprayer end section of the spray handle.

Abstract: A compliant conduit connector system for the sealed joining of two fluid conduits having two or more slip bearings to maintain mechanical connection between the two fluid conduits and a sealing o-ring to maintain a fluid seal between the two fluid conduits is disclosed. A socket having an inner surface including a sealing surface is formed on an end of a first fluid conduit. A plurality of slip bearings are held in position on the outer surface of a second fluid conduit by respective bearing channels attached to an outer surface of the second fluid conduit where the slip bearings are in mechanical contact with an inner surface of the socket formed in the first fluid conduit. The o-Ring makes sealing contact with a sealing surface defined as part of the inner surface of the first fluid conduit. To assure electrical conductivity a conductor assembly contacts both the first fluid conduit and the second fluid conduit.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention disclose systems, apparatuses, and methods of measurement performed by pipe conveyed tools. In an embodiment, a system for evaluation of a well bore includes a drill string assembly comprising a plurality of pipe joints, a wired slip joint coupled to the plurality of drill pipe, the slip joint movable from a retracted position to an extended position to compensate for changes in length of the drill string, the extended position having a length greater than the retracted position; a sensor positioned in the slip joint, wherein the sensor detects a change in length of the slip joint and generates a signal representative of a position of the slip joint, and a communication system to transmit the signal from the slip joint to a surface processor.

Abstract: An expansion repair coupling for interconnecting two facing ends of a cut pipe comprises a tubular body, a spigot slidably and rotatably received therein and a locking mechanism to selectively lock or unlock the rotation of the tubular body relative to the spigot. An end of the spigot extends outward from the tubular body to receive a coupling that connects to one end of the cut pipe. A radially enlarged section on the spigot has a sealing mechanism that sealably engages an interior surface of the tubular body. The locking mechanism, engaged by collapsing the spigot into the tubular body or disengaged by extending the spigot therefrom, facilitates a push and twist connection at both ends of the pipe to wipe the adhesive disposed therebetween and obtain a better seal. Preferably, the locking mechanism comprises a socket having spigot engaging members that cooperatively engage socket engaging members on the spigot.

Abstract: An insertable tube system for a vacuum cleaner, with at least one first tube, a second tube and a coupling for detachable connection of the first tube to the second tube, the coupling having a guide element and a lever button, the guide element being located on the outside of the wall of the first tube, the lever button in the guide element being supported to be able to move around a pivot axis, the lever button being movable by the force of at least a first spring element into a catch position, and the lever button having a catch projection on the bottom, the wall of the first tube having an opening for the catch projection of the lever button, and a mechanical connection between the first tube and the second tube being producible by engagement of the catch projection with a catch recess of the second tube.

Abstract: An apparatus for changing a length of a pipe, the pipe including first and second pipe portions each having an interior, includes a cylinder having a first end wall and an open end, the cylinder being connectable to the first pipe portion. The apparatus also includes a piston having a second end wall, the piston being receivable in slidable and sealable engagement with the cylinder, the piston being connectable to the second pipe portion, wherein the cylinder and the second end wall define a chamber physically isolated from the interiors of the first and second pipe portions, the chamber being adapted to receive a control fluid for displacing the piston relative to the cylinder to vary a distance between the first and second pipe portions while permitting fluid communication between the first and second pipe portions, the chamber including a cushioning region in communication with the chamber.

Abstract: A pipe insert providing a connection between pipe ends allowing fluid flow access between the pipe ends. The pipe insert having a central section with an internal thread that extends along the length of the central section and outer sections having inner and outer threaded ends. The inner threads allow attaching of the outer section into the central section so that the pipe insert may vary the relative displacement between the free ends of the pipe insert to correspond to the spacing between the pipe ends. The outer threaded ends having a releasably attaching connection to the outer section to provide a connection between the spaced pipe ends. The pipe insert is particularly useful during replacement of an appliance located between the pipe ends. The pipe insert is adapted to receive flow control and/or sensing element for measurement of fluid flow between the pipe ends.

Abstract: A pipe connector having two connector elements each arranged for interconnection and connection to a respective pipe, a retaining member for maintaining interconnection of the connector elements and a ring member arranged for capture by the retaining member and biased into contact with both connector elements of the pipe connector, the ring member being formed as a single piece of electrically conductive material so as to provide electrical bonding directly between the two connector elements of the pipe connector.

Abstract: A telescoping tube system for a vacuum cleaner, with an inner jacket tube, an outer jacket tube, an inner suction tube and a cable, the inner jacket tube having a smaller cross section than the outer jacket tube so that the inner jacket tube and the outer jacket tube form a telescoping jacket channel, the inner suction tube being located inside of the jacket channel, and the cable being guided within the jacket channel and outside of the inner suction tube. In the telescoping tube system, losses of suction force by the intake of secondary air are reduced to a minimum and reliable cable routing is ensured by there being an outer suction tube, the outer suction tube and the inner suction tube forming an essentially closed suction channel within the jacket channel.

Abstract: An automotive engine cooling pipe apparatus for fluid-conducting installation with an engine block of an engine comprising a front tube having a proximal portion configured for at least partially slidably and sealably engaging a front sealing ring seated within a front opening of the engine block, a rear tube telescopically engaged with the front tube and having a distal portion configured for at least partially slidably seating within a rear opening of the engine block, and a means for securing the relative positions of the telescoping front and rear tubes in a substantially expanded configuration of the apparatus, whereby expansion of the cooling pipe apparatus within the engine block seats the proximal and distal portions of the front and rear tubes within the respective front and rear openings of the engine block and so provides axial tension thereby stabilizing the installation of the cooling pipe apparatus within the engine block.

Abstract: A coupling for fuel pipe includes a pipe end fitting, which includes a male outer surface including a groove and a female inner surface including a groove. The coupling includes a double-walled socket including a female outer socket and a male inner shaft. The pipe end fitting is accommodated in the region between the female outer socket and the male inner shaft. A first seal ring seals between the female inner surface and the male inner shaft. A second seal ring, which may be substantially coplanar with the first, seals between the male outer surface and the female outer socket of the double-walled socket. The coupling may be so arranged that the pipe end fitting and the double-walled socket are able to pivot relative to each other by up to at least ±2 degrees and are able to slide both towards and apart from each other.

Abstract: An engine exhaust system comprises duct pieces (201, 202) and a sealing joint (30) for interconnecting their adjoining ends. The sealing joint (30) comprises a one-piece tubular body (31) including a first axial end portion (331), a second axial end portion (332), and a bridge portion (34) extending therebetween. The first end portion (331) is at least partially positioned within a female recess (231) of the first duct piece (201) and the second end portion (332) is at least partially positioned within a female recess (232) of the second duct piece (202). Depending upon the thermal expansion-contraction conditions in the exhaust system, the bridge portion (34) can extend across a gap (24) and/or it can be positioned partially within female recesses (231) and (232).

Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable mechanism for connecting two or more shafts, including at least a first shaft having an external surface with an outer diameter and a second shaft which is hollow at a first end, wherein a spring is anchored to the first end of the second shaft, the spring having an inner diameter of similar dimensions to the outer diameter of the first shaft, the spring configured such that when a force is applied to the spring its inner diameter is greater than the outer diameter of the first shaft so that the second shaft can move over the first shaft to a desired position relative to the first shaft, and when the force is no longer applied to the spring it is biased to return to its original inner diameter to bear against the external surface of the first shaft.

Abstract: A telescopic pipe structure for a marine light includes a telescopic pipe and a positioning device. The telescopic pipe includes a second pipe and a fixed pipe. The positioning device is used to control the telescopic pipe in a fixed status or in an adjustable status. The positioning device includes a rotatable lid, a resilient sleeve, and a metallic ring. When the rotatable lid is turned clockwise or counterclockwise, the metallic ring will be pushed by the top of the fixed tube or returned to its original position by the resilient sleeve for controlling the engagement or disengagement of an contracted opening of the resilient sleeve and the second pipe so as to change the telescopic pipe in a fixed status or in an adjustable status.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for interconnecting pipes, and a method for manufacturing a jaw of a jaw holder An apparatus/method are provided. The pipe connecting apparatus includes a pipe connecting member installed at a location where two pipes are interconnected, one or more jaw holder that are fixedly inserted into respective opposite end portions of the pipe connecting member in a state where they are respectively interposed between the pipe connecting member and the pipe and between the pipe connecting member and the pipe and provided with a plurality of jaw mounting holes that are formed along an outer circumference and spaced apart from each other at predetermined intervals, one or more jaws that are pivotally inserted into the respective jaw mounting holes and press and fix the pipes inserted into the jaw holders by being depressed by an inner wall of the pipe connecting member, and one or more elastic members that are installed in the pipe connecting member to elastically support the jaws.

Abstract: A telescoping tube for fuel transfer operations has a fixed part and a moving part, the moving part further having a dynamic sealing system which guarantees the sealing of the moving part against the fixed part, a cushioning system which absorbs the energy of the impact of the moving part against the fixed part in operations for extending and retracting the tube and protection systems against electrical discharges which ground the moving part to the fixed part, the aforementioned dynamic sealing, cushioning and protection systems all being incorporated in a single unit in the moving part of the telescoping tube. Additionally, the invention relates to an in-flight refuelling system for a tanker aeroplane, to carry out in-flight fuel transfer operations to a receiving aircraft, having a telescoping tube with the abovementioned characteristics.