Abstract: A method and apparatus for monitoring a pipeline expansion joint, in particular the conditions of a pressure-balanced expansion joint. A sensor is positioned so as to sense one or more physical characteristics of a pipeline fluid flow. A signal generated by the sensor(s) is received by a suitably configured electronic controller. The controller, in turn, is connected to a flow control valve, that is movable between at least an “off” or “no-flow” position, and a flow permitting position, connecting a source of compressible medium and the volume confined between the two (or more) balancing bellows of a pressure-balanced expansion joint. An accumulator may also be provided, that may be connectable via the flow control valve, to the confined volume. The controller will be operably configured to cause the valve to be moved, in response to signals received from the sensor(s) that correspond to stored numerical data in the controller that represent different potential operating conditions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a duct assembly for conducting compressed air from a fixed component to a component that is movable with respect to the fixed component. The duct assembly contains at least two telescoping, tubular conduit sections with seals between adjacent sections. An upstream transitional joint rotatably interconnects the outermost conduit section with an air supply duct, while a downstream transitional joint rotatably interconnects the innermost conduit section with an air delivery duct. A tubular double-wall spaced apart from the inner surface of the innermost conduit section forms an annular airspace between the tubular double-wall and the innermost conduit section. A second double-wall forms a second annular airspace between its downstream end and the upstream transitional joint. The annular airspaces created by the double-walls protect the seals.

Abstract: Disclosed is a slidable duct assembly for conducting air from a fixed component to a component that is movable with respect to the fixed component by conducting air from a fixed supply of air, associated with the fixed component, to an air delivery member, movable along with the movable component. The duct assembly contains at least two metallic telescoping, tubular conduit sections for rotatably interconnecting the air supply to the air delivery member, and a pair of electrically-conductible, spaced-apart slide bearings positioned between the inner surface and the outer surface of each adjacent conduit section to electrically bond the duct assembly.

Abstract: Disclosed is a pressurized, slidable duct assembly for conducting compressed air from a fixed component to a component that is movable with respect to the fixed component. The duct assembly has at least three metallic, telescoping, tubular conduit sections rotatably interconnecting an air supply duct to an air delivery duct. An upstream slide bearing and a spaced-apart downstream slide bearing are disposed between each pair of opposing inner and outer conduit section surfaces. Disposed between each set of upstream and downstream slide bearings is a seal to substantially prevent the escape of air from the duct assembly. A stop located between each seal and downstream slide bearing axially positions the conduit sections when the duct assembly is fully extended.

Abstract: Disclosed is a flexible joint for sealing two conduits. One half of the joint includes an annular seal gland with an outer surface defining a static seal face. The other half of the joint includes an inner race member having inner and outer bearing surfaces, the inner surface spaced apart from and generally opposing the outer surface of the seal gland and having a region defining a dynamic seal face. An annular bellows constructed of a plurality of convolutions having varying convolution heights is disposed between the first and second seal faces to form a low leakage seal. The heights of the convolutions decrease in the direction of the first to the second seal faces.

Abstract: A flexible connector is provided for coupling a source and discharge outlet for fluid transfer. The connector has a tubular metal bellows, an inner tubular metal liner, couplings at each end of the bellows having articulated joints between the inner liner and the couplings, such that the liner provides isolation between gases flowing through the connector and the bellows, and protective structure encompassing the bellows.

Abstract: A structure for restraining pressure thrust loads of a bellows joint while allowing angular rotation between two pipe ends is provided with a pair of toroidal limiting rings having a circular cross-section and stop rings on their inner circumference. The limiting rings are secured at an axial spacing and encircle the pipe ends. Shear lugs are fixed around each pipe end. The stop rings are engaged by the shear lugs to limit the axial expansion of the joint. The limiting rings are secured together by either two hinge arms or a gimbal ring. The gimbal ring uses two pairs of hinge arms, each at 180.degree. spacing and one pair offset 90.degree. relative to the other, with one pair of hinge arms securing the gimbal ring to one limiting ring, and the other pair of hinge arms securing the gimbal ring to the other limiting ring.