With Aperture Forming Means Patents (Class 137/318)
  • Patent number: 9010350
    Abstract: A hot tapping assembly for hot tapping into a multiple string configuration to obtain access to the production tubing without removing outer layers of casing, the hot tapping assembly including a hot tapping clamp and a hot tapping seal assembly. In one embodiment, the hot tapping clamp includes a clamp plate having an access bore. The clamp plate can engage with an outer surface of a pipe. In another embodiment, the hot tapping seal assembly can engage with the hot tapping clamp, and includes a hot tapping tubular that can engage with the outer surface of the pipe through the hot tapping clamp's access bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: BTI Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Cenac, Richard J. Robichaux, John William Angers
  • Patent number: 8967188
    Abstract: A shear valve (10) comprises a casing having a first part (12) for positioning on one side of a pipe and a second part (14) engageable with the first part (12) for positioning on the other side of the pipe. A blade (26) is disposed substantially within the first part and is actuable across the pipe towards the second part for cutting the pipe. The blade has a support region for supporting the periphery of the pipe as the pipe is being cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventors: Gary Humm, Scott Humm
  • Publication number: 20140345702
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: Tetra Applied Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Harry MCGRAW, Leslie M. BLAND, Daniel S. BANGERT, Mark F. GRAVOUIA, Rizal MASINGKAN
  • Patent number: 8893739
    Abstract: Disclosed is a maintenance device for an elongate, tubular hollow member (2) designed to conduct a fluid. Said maintenance device comprises a sealing mechanism (4) which is to seal a working zone (9) relative to surroundings (30) of the hollow member (2) and can be moved in one direction along the hollow member (2). A side of the sealing mechanism (4) that faces the hollow member (2) forms an at least partially curved surface and can be moved in the longitudinal direction of the hollow member (2), especially in order to be placed in the sealing position. A method for servicing an elongate, tubular hollow member (2) is also claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Rosen Swiss AG
    Inventor: Hermann Rosen
  • Patent number: 8826929
    Abstract: A tapping tee assembly and method is provided for fluidly connecting to a conduit. The tapping tee assembly includes a body having a conduit recess for receiving the conduit and further defining a passage having one end adjacent the conduit recess. A cutter is received in the passage and engages a threaded region of the passage for selective advancement and retraction within the passage upon rotation relative the body. The cutter comprises a first component with first and second ends and having a cutting edge at the first end for cutting through a side wall of the conduit to establish fluid communication between the main passage and the conduit. A second component is secured to the first component at the second end either by mechanically securing or molding the second component to the first component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Elster Perfection Corporation
    Inventors: James R. Moran, Ryan K. Wodrich, David L. Robison
  • Patent number: 8752574
    Abstract: A system for installing sealant into a stuffing box of an industrial valve with a first volatile organic compound injection valve providing a seal; a removable plug for sealingly engaging an end of the injection port bore forming an additional seal; a rotatable shut off pin for regulating flow through the injection port bore, a high pressure packing gland with packing gland bore, a threaded packing chamber, a threaded injection valve port, and a rotatable packing gland shut off pin to regulate sealant flowing through the packing gland bore or to stop flow of sealant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventors: Henry Adams, Rusty Smith, Nicholas Swango
  • Patent number: 8739834
    Abstract: Systems, apparatuses, and methods of use of a plug assembly are disclosed herein. The plug assembly includes an expandable plug for use with a pipe having an annular wall defining an outer wall surface and an inner wall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Mueller International, LLC
    Inventors: Mikhail German, Leo Fleury
  • Patent number: 8726928
    Abstract: An apparatus including: a sealing case including separate cases and enclosing a portion of an existing pipe, and a valve cover portion attached to a branch pipe portion protruding upwardly from the existing pipe; a gate valve body accommodated by the valve cover portion and the branch pipe portion to be intruded into the existing pipe to stop the flow of the fluid through the existing pipe; an operation valve body having an arc-shaped lateral cross section for opening/closing a branch hole formed in the branch pipe portion by rotating in the circumferential direction of the existing pipe; and a rotation mechanism for rotating the operation valve body, the rotation mechanism including: an operation portion; a driving gear unit which rotates; and a driven gear for rotating the operation valve body in the circumferential direction of the existing pipe following the rotation of the driving gear unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Suiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshiyuki Sato
  • Patent number: 8720465
    Abstract: An apparatus including: a sealing case 20 having a branch-shaped branch hole 23 formed in a first separate case 21 and extending in the radial direction C of an existing pipe 1; and a rubber packing 30 for sealing a gap between the sealing case 20 and the existing pipe 1, wherein: the first separate case 21 is provided with a flange 28 for allowing for attachment and removal of a boring machine 3; the sealing case 20 is capable of reciprocating in the pipe axis direction L; and the rubber packing 30 forms: a first sealed area S1 surrounding a portion of the sealing case 20 where the branch hole 23 is provided for shutting the branch hole 23; and a second sealed area S2 being adjacent to the first sealed area S1, sealed against the first sealed area S1, displaced from the first sealed area S1 in the pipe axis direction L, and sized so as to be able to shut the opening bored by a cutter 3a.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Suiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sato, Taihei Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 8720466
    Abstract: A process is provided for accessing an underground pressurized gas main for retirement of replacement of the connection of a gas service pipe thereto. A gas main fixture that has a service tee adaptor and a pressurized chamber connected thereto is mounted onto the gas main with the tee adaptor above a tee plug on the gas service pipe. The chamber is closed against gas discharge and the tee plug is unscrewed from the gas service pipe while the pressure chamber is closed. The tee plug is removed through the service tee adapter and pressure chamber while minimizing gas discharged to atmosphere. The plug hole is preferably reamed through the pressure chamber while the chamber is closed to atmosphere, tapped for a straight fine thread, and a main plug with the fine thread is screwed into the tapped hole while limiting its depth of engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Tellus Underground Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Russo, Robert Bentzoni, Lawrence Dowling, Stephen Karner
  • Patent number: 8707979
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: TETRA Applied Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Harry McGraw, Leslie M. Bland, Daniel S. Bangert, Mark F. Gravouia, Rizal Masingkan
  • Patent number: 8695626
    Abstract: The present embodiments provide systems and methods for valve insertion and linestopping. In one embodiment, the system comprises a sealing housing having a lower housing portion and an upper housing portion that are each dimensioned to partially surround an exterior surface of an existing pipe in an airtight state. In one embodiment, an integral valve assembly is disposed at least partially within an integral valve housing section of the upper housing portion. The integral valve assembly comprises a valve movable between an open position in which the valve provides an open pathway through an opening in the upper housing portion, and a closed position in which the valve provides a seal adjacent to the opening. The upper housing portion may be adapted to selectively receive each of an adapter plate for a cutting machine, a valve bonnet, and a blind flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Advanced Valve Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin P. Murphy, Michael S. Murphy
  • Publication number: 20140076414
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method and a device for tapping and tracing a conduit that is obstructed from view such as a subterranean pipe. The invention allows the conduit to be traced while the conduit continues to function. The device includes a tapping tee for tapping into a conduit with an entry port at an acute angle to the conduit, a flexible fiberglass rodder that includes a conductor, a stuffing box removably attached to the tapping tee for inserting the rodder into the tapping tee, a signal transmitter operably attached to the rodder, and a signal receiver that receives the signals transmitted by the transmitter through the rodder and through the obstruction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventor: Bradley Robert Kokoski
  • Patent number: 8656939
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for sealing and severing a subsea pipe adapted to convey fluids, e.g., hydrocarbons, and systems and methods using such apparatus. The apparatus includes a housing adapted to attach to the pipe, a piercing tool for providing an opening in the pipe at a predetermined location and a mechanism for establishing fluid communication between a source of sealant material and space within the pipe adjacent the opening in the pipe, and a cutting mechanism for cutting the pipe. Methods disclosed include piercing the pipe to form an opening, injecting sealant material through the opening into the pipe to form a fluid-tight seal, and cutting the pipe through the seal to form sealed cut ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.
    Inventors: Jarred Christopher Sharp, Scott Oren Crook, Jimmie Dean Adkins, Daniel Christopher Kefford, Edward Shintaro Nakajima, Jean Michael Thibodeaux
  • Patent number: 8651134
    Abstract: A draining tool useful for controlled draining of a fluid container, such as a threaded spin-on type oil filter. The draining tool includes a piercing pin having a tapered point, striking head, resilient spring, resilient spring retainer assembly, and piercing pin retainer assembly. The draining tool includes a central block having an axial bore housing the piercing pin, and an internal chamber having a channel permitting drainage of fluid from the internal chamber. One end of the central block provides an attachment assembly suitable for holding the tool against the fluid container allowing the fluid container to be pierced by the piercing pin and the internal chamber to receive fluid flowing from the fluid container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Brian Kurtz
  • Patent number: 8627843
    Abstract: A gate valve is disclosed that may be installed in a pressurized pipe or conduit. The gate valve includes a cylindrical gate housing that has a slot through which a rectangular gate slides between an open and closed position. The gate and gate housing provide seals between the gate valve and the housing section that houses the gate housing when the gate valve is in either an open or a closed position. The bottom seal that engages the pressurized pipe may be equipped with stiffening shields for a higher pressure rating. The operating torque to raise and lower the seal assembly has been substantially reduced by the design of the sliding gate within the gate housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: ADS LLC
    Inventor: Brian J. Ries
  • Patent number: 8622078
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: TETRA Applied Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Harry McGraw, Leslie M. Bland, Daniel S. Bangert, Mark F. Gravouia, Rizal Masingkan
  • Patent number: 8616811
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for angularly drilling during a tapping procedure 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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: TETRA Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Galen R. Clark, II, Ames Lafferty, Clint Musemeche, Clayton Claxton
  • Patent number: 8613291
    Abstract: Apparatus for controlling flow of fluid through a pipe, comprising: a housing configured to enclose a portion of a pipe through which fluid flow is to be controlled, the housing comprising: a first part defining a chamber configured to receive the portion of the pipe; and a second part extending from the first part, the second part defining a stowage space adjacent the chamber; a flow control device from a stowed position in the stowage space to an installed position in the chamber for selectively controlling flow through the housing, the flow control device comprising a body having a leading end defining a cutting surface for removing a section of the pipe enclosed by the housing as the flow control device moves from the stowed position to the installed position in order to form an opening in the pipe for receiving the flow control device when in the installed position; and a rotary drive mechanism for moving the flow control device from the stowed position to the installed position in response to a rotary i
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: NLB Engineering Limited
    Inventor: John Francis Steeple Heffernan
  • Patent number: 8607814
    Abstract: An active pipe cutoff valve installation assembly includes a conduit having an top section mating with a bottom section forming the conduit having first and second open ends. Medial seals are positioned in the conduit abutting a pipe extending through the conduit and defining a sealed chamber corresponding to a medial section of the conduit. A valve is coupled to the conduit having an gate extendable into the medial section the conduit whereby flow through the conduit is cut off. A wire extends into and through the medial section of the conduit. The wire cuts the pipe while the pipe is positioned in the sealed chamber. The wire is aligned with the gate of the valve so the gate cuts off flow through the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Justin Boltjes
  • Publication number: 20130306162
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: BTI Services
    Inventors: Martin Cenac, Richard J. Robichaux, John William Angers, JR.
  • Patent number: 8573243
    Abstract: A fluid delivery device for fixing to and delivering a fluid into a pressurized pipe, the device operable for restricting a flow of fluid through the pipe, thereby generating a restricted flow region within the pipe, the device including a delivery conduit arranged to open into the restricted flow region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Douglas Burnham
  • Patent number: 8550108
    Abstract: A gas pressure control valve having a valve body with a gas inlet and a gas outlet is described. An inner cap is provided bounding in part a chamber within the valve body in communication with the gas inlet. The valve body contains a spring loaded piston comprising a piston head and a piston rod. The piston rod includes a conduit providing communication between the chamber bounded in part by the inner cap and a chamber adjacent the piston head and the gas outlet. The piston is operable to move between a closed configuration in which the piston rod prevents communication between the gas inlet and the chamber bounded in part by the inner cap and an open configuration in which the piston rod permits communication between the gas inlet and the chamber bounded in part by the inner cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Linde Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Andrew Richard Thomas Tatarek
  • Publication number: 20130255794
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Inventors: Martin Cenac, Richard J. Robichaux, John William Angers, JR.
  • Patent number: 8534306
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Shell Oil Company
    Inventors: Ray Rolland Ayers, Michael Hosokawa Dupre, Michael Lee Eckstein, Jack Everett Miller
  • Publication number: 20130206252
    Abstract: A piping system drain down tool allows for a controlled draining of any pipe or piping system in a safe, efficient and professional manner. Current methods for draining piping systems is messy, time-consuming and uncontrolled. The piping system drain down tool includes a boring shaft that can turn to penetrate a pipe clamped into the tool. A seal prevents water from leaking and directs draining water out through the tool and through a valve and a hose connector, where a hose can be connected to direct flow of the draining water. The tool can also be used to create a water supply tap at any location within a water system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Angelo Leto
  • Publication number: 20130206244
    Abstract: An oil filter removal tool and system for the removal and drainage of an oil filter comprising: an oil drain connector, where said connector connects to an oil filter cap of the oil filter; a turn bolt at a distal end of the tool, where said bolt is used to turn the removal tool; a second turn bolt, where the second turn bolt turns counter clockwise to secure the connector to the filter cap; a drain tube provided at the distal end of the tool that inserts onto a drain plug; a body portion, where the body portion secures around the oil filter and surrounds the oil drain connector; and notches, where said notches are provided around a perimeter edge of the body portion of the removal tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventor: Gervacio Laurel
  • Publication number: 20130180598
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: Tetra Applied Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Tetra Applied Technologies, LLC
  • Patent number: 8474473
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Assignee: Blowout Tools, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Cenac, Richard J. Robichaux, John William Angers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8413329
    Abstract: The present invention minimizes the assembly time of a dispenser head by inserting a rigid seal retaining element. The seal retaining element comes in different configurations thus allowing a variety of compressed gas cartridge dispensing options. Additional features are integrated into a molded dispenser head thus requiring fewer components to accomplish a useable dispenser thus reducing manufacturing costs. Reliance on conformable plastic allows for relaxed dimensional tolerances. This method of making a dispenser head can equally apply to threaded or non-threaded lance housings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Anthony S. Hollars
  • Patent number: 8402992
    Abstract: A gear case part (70), which has an upper aperture that opens upward and which forms a recess that houses a portion of a drive gear device (63) and for which the drive gear device (63) can be inserted from the upper aperture and assembled, is provided integrally on the upper part of a first or second divided case (21, 22); a cover (66) that blocks the upper aperture of the gear case part (70) is fastened to the gear case part (70); an operating part (67) protrudes upward from a through-hole (66a) that vertically penetrates the cover (66); and by removing the cover (66) from the gear case part (70), the drive gear device (63) can be extracted from the gear case part (70) through the upper aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Suiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tamotsu Yamashita, Taihei Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 8403039
    Abstract: A system and method for accessing an annulus within a wellhead assembly while the annulus is pressurized. The system includes a tubular body with an attached valve assembly and adapter. The adapter to the wellhead assembly with a sealed annular fitting. The body houses a selectively extendable plunger assembly rotatable by an attached motor. A bit or milling device is provided on the end of the plunger assembly, so that selectively extending the plunger assembly through the valve assembly and adapter contacts the bit against the wellhead assembly. An opening is formed through the wellhead assembly with the rotating bit allowing access to the annulus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.
    Inventors: James J. Howell, David Daniel Comeaux, Richard Porteous, Mariusz Karp
  • Patent number: 8360276
    Abstract: A manual inflator having a status indicator that indicates whether a fully-charged, unspent gas cylinder has been installed on the inflator. The status indicator comprises a “single point” indicator having an indicator window that displays the color “green” when the automatic inflator is fully operational or the color “red” when the inflator is at least partially inoperable automatically due to the removal of the gas cylinder or due to the firing of the inflator resulting in a spent gas cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2013
    Assignee: Halkey-Roberts Corporation
    Inventors: Stephen J. Rogier, Lyman W. Fawcett, Jr., Alan D. King
  • Publication number: 20130000749
    Abstract: An apparatus including: a sealing case including separate cases and enclosing a portion of an existing pipe, and a valve cover portion attached to a branch pipe portion protruding upwardly from the existing pipe; a gate valve body accommodated by the valve cover portion and the branch pipe portion to be intruded into the existing pipe to stop the flow of the fluid through the existing pipe; an operation valve body having an arc-shaped lateral cross section for opening/closing a branch hole formed in the branch pipe portion by rotating in the circumferential direction of the existing pipe; and a rotation mechanism for rotating the operation valve body, the rotation mechanism including: an operation portion; a driving gear unit which rotates; and a driven gear for rotating the operation valve body in the circumferential direction of the existing pipe following the rotation of the driving gear unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Publication date: January 3, 2013
    Applicant: SUIKEN CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Toshiyuki SATO
  • Patent number: 8333211
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Tetra Applied Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Harry McGraw, Leslie M. Bland, Daniel S. Bangert, Mark F. Gravouia, Rizal Masingkan
  • Publication number: 20120312391
    Abstract: A tapping tee assembly and method is provided for fluidly connecting to a conduit. The tapping tee assembly includes a body having a conduit recess for receiving the conduit and further defining a passage having one end adjacent the conduit recess. A cutter is received in the passage and engages a threaded region of the passage for selective advancement and retraction within the passage upon rotation relative the body. The cutter comprises a first component with first and second ends and having a cutting edge at the first end for cutting through a side wall of the conduit to establish fluid communication between the main passage and the conduit. A second component is secured to the first component at the second end either by mechanically securing or molding the second component to the first component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: James R. Moran, Ryan K. Wodrich, David L. Robison
  • Publication number: 20120305097
    Abstract: Tapping devices and methods for using such devices to tap into a pipe are described. The tapping device contains a drill connected to the proximal portion of a shaft, a tapping tool attached to a distal portion of the shaft, and a protection device attached to the shaft. The protection device itself contains containing an enlarged distal portion, an enlarged proximal portion, and a middle member extending therebetween. The user can hold and use the tapping device with a first hand on a handle of the drill and a second hand on the middle member of the protection device. The protection device protects the hand from hitting an object (including the pipe), the socket, or the drill, thereby improving the safety for the user. Other embodiments are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph Fiorini
  • Patent number: 8316871
    Abstract: A perforating device capable of perforating a process for perforating a fluid duct having a connector seat with a tapped barrel. The device generally includes a hollow cylindrical body, a cutting apparatus, a fluid passage and a valve. The cylindrical body has an internal volume, a longitudinal axis, a first open end, a second end opposite the first, and a threaded external surface. The cylindrical body can be threadingly received or retracted within the barrel such that the cylindrical body moves along the barrel toward or away from the fluid duct. The cutting apparatus is operably coupled to an end of the cylindrical body and is adapted to cut the duct by screwing the body into the barrel. The valve seals the internal volume of the cylindrical body in response to a differential pressure between the interior of the duct and the ambient atmosphere to prevent leakage from the duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Gaz de France
    Inventors: Alain Cugnart, Michel Hardy, Sylvain Murgier, Sylvain Pineau
  • Patent number: 8291902
    Abstract: A conventional respiratory nebulizer has an emergency medication dose storage system delivering the stored medication dose directly to the nebulizing chamber with a single impulse of force to a simple mechanical delivery system, thereby making the nebulizer useable in two steps: (a) opening the medication capsule with a simple opening action; and (b) inhaling the nebulized medication. The delivery system includes a plunger assembly having a pair of converging blades coming to a point for piercing a medication capsule held within a docking chamber adjacent to a nebulizing mixing chamber and a hollow needle connected to an air power source directing air through said needle, to force liquid medication from said pierced medication capsule into said nebulizing mixing chamber of said nebulizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Abrams
  • Patent number: 8286655
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: The Jack Farrelly Company
    Inventor: Robert E. Farrelly
  • Publication number: 20120222753
    Abstract: An apparatus including a sealing case 20 having a branch-shaped branch hole 23 formed in a first separate case 21 and extending in the radial direction C of an existing pipe 1; and a rubber packing 30 for sealing a gap between the sealing case 20 and the existing pipe 1, wherein: the first separate case 21 is provided with a flange 28 for allowing for attachment and removal of a boring machine 3; the sealing case 20 is capable of reciprocating in the pipe axis direction L; and the rubber packing 30 forms: a first sealed area S1 surrounding a portion of the sealing case 20 where the branch hole 23 is provided for shutting the branch hole 23; and a second sealed area S2 being adjacent to the first sealed area S1, sealed against the first sealed area S1, displaced from the first sealed area S1 in the pipe axis direction L, and sized so as to be able to shut the opening bored by a cutter 3a.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: SUIKEN CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Sato, Taihei Yokoyama
  • Publication number: 20120160338
    Abstract: A drip line installation kit apparatus and method is provided for puncturing a conduit. The kit includes a clamping means having a clamp member to engage the conduit, the clamp member having a guiding channel oriented at a predefined angle to the conduit. A coupling means engages the guiding channel and a punch fits within the coupling means so as to align with the guiding channel and maintain a conduit puncturing punch end at the predefined angle to the conduit. A punch press engages the coupling means and drives the punch into the conduit thereby puncturing the conduit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: Joanne PAPARI, Hao LI
  • Patent number: 8201573
    Abstract: 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 energized simultaneously using two electrical terminals (24,38), and the device can be manufactured with relative ease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Radius Systems Limited
    Inventors: Mario John Christodoulou, Colin Hughes, Jeffrey Richard Utting
  • Patent number: 8196599
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Orbit Irrigation Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Scot Hoskisson, Tres Wangsgaard, Alan T. Ence
  • Patent number: 8156959
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Suiken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tamotsu Yamashita, Taihei Yokoyama
  • Patent number: 8151817
    Abstract: An apparatus for isolating elbow fittings includes a fluid containing elbow housing with 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. The cooperating components of the elbow housing are secured 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: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventor: Ivan Mazur
  • Patent number: 8127784
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for draining a screw-on fluid filter which comprises a hollow body member movably engaged with a puncturing member. The hollow body member is dimensioned and arranged to at least partially engage a threaded attachment portion of the screw-on fluid filter. The puncturing member comprises a shaft having a puncture end movable within a conduit formed within the hollow body member wherein the puncturing member may be engaged with an inner side of a fluid filter to produce a puncture hole from inside out of the fluid filter, to produce a puncture hole from which fluid in the fluid filter may drain. A method of using the device is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Matthew Simon Cesarz
  • Publication number: 20120042964
    Abstract: Vehicle fuel removal system for vehicles raised upon a automotive lift or driven over a automotive work pit. The device features a piercing spear member with engagement to a hydraulically translating member of smaller diameter for piercing the fuel tank. The small diameter member acts to allow flow of fluid around the spear head and down along the small diameter translating member. The hole produced by the piercing spear tip can be adapted to allow the insertion of a bung (where required). This assembly is surrounded by a funneling basin to direct fuel flow to a receiving hose. The described members can be engaged upon a rolling support or on an arm of a pivoting wall mounted support. A residual fuel removal system from the fuel tanks of vehicles raised upon a automotive lift or driven over a automotive work pit. The device features a piercing spear member operatively engaged to a hydraulically powered translating member of smaller diameter for piercing the fuel tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Inventor: Chris Kightly
  • Patent number: 8118048
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming an opening through a storage tank (3) containing a flammable and/or combustible fluid, for example petrol. The storage tank (3) includes a hollow column (7) extending outwardly from an exterior surface of the storage tank (3), an interior wall of the hollow column (7) in combination with the exterior surface of the storage tank (3) defining a well-like cavity allowing access by the apparatus (1) to the exterior surface of the storage tank (3). The apparatus (1) includes a cutting assembly (13) for cutting through the exterior surface of the storage tank (3); and a housing assembly for supporting the cutting assembly (13). The housing assembly includes a sealing assembly for sealing the housing assembly with respect to the hollow column (7) such that the cavity is sealed from surrounding air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Zestco Pty. Ltd.
    Inventors: Dale Timms, Philip Quinan, Russell Thorpe
  • Patent number: 8104517
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Mueller International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mikhail German, Leo Fleury