With Aperture Forming Means Patents (Class 137/318)
  • Patent number: 5546979
    Abstract: A fluid container draining device for draining fluid from a fluid container, such as an oil filter, in a controlled manner. It has a front threaded screw with a sharpened drill tip. It has an internal channel communicating between an opening at the forward end of the screw and a rear region of the threaded screw. A fluid valve is positioned at the rear region of the screw in fluid connection with the channel. The fluid valve provides fluid flow control between the interior of the fluid container and the outside of the fluid container. The fluid valve has an internally threaded front region which screws into the externally threaded rear region of the screw, and an externally threaded rear region, onto which a fluid evacuation line is to be attached. A turning portion for turning the device into the wall of the container is located on the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Clark Technology Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Clark, II, Poul Van Santen
  • Patent number: 5524661
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a device for blocking fluid in a pipe 1 onto which a positioning unit 2 is hermetically mounted and through which a hole is drilled in the pipe while maintaining a hermetic seal. An expandable body 8 is inserted into the pipe with the aid of a blocking implement 7 enclosed in support tube 9. The expandable body is expanded to temporarily block the flow of fluid in the pipe. The support tube has a supporting structure for supporting the expandable body against the flow of fluid during insertion into the pipe, after insertion, during expansion and after expansion. The support structure increases the capability of the expanded body to withstand the high pressure of the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Assignee: Tigerholm AB
    Inventor: Lars Tigerholm
  • Patent number: 5511578
    Abstract: The tool of the invention is used to insert and secure a stopper plug to close a hole in the wall of a pipe carrying fluid under pressure. This permits removal of a defective pipe fitting such as a tee or a valve. The stopper plug includes a toggle or anchor for engaging the inner wall of the pipe at the location of the hole to be sealed shut. After the stopper plug is secured in place, the defective fitting is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Dennis J. Wagner
  • Patent number: 5509440
    Abstract: Device for cutting a pipe (1) transporting fluid in order to stop the circulation of the fluid at any point, comprising a casing (2, 3) susceptible of being sealingly mounted on the pipe (1). The casing (2, 3) contains at least one blade (8) which is driven in rotation and feed motions so as to cut off the pipe (1) by sawing it transversely. The blade (8) forms a stop surface to the circulation along the section plane of the saw blade. The device is useful in the cutting of fluid flow in pipes and particularly in the case of accidents such as fires in oil wells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: Societe Civile d'Invention pour la Gestion des Brevets Cantaloube
    Inventors: Elie Cantaloube, Yves Cantaloube
  • Patent number: 5507604
    Abstract: A tapping assembly comprising a main valve for selectively opening and closing a valve passageway, a support for holding the main valve adjacent a unit to be tapped, a drill for piercing a wall of that unit with the drill including a housing and a cutting element. A coupler is provided with left-hand threads and right-hand threads for easily connecting and disconnecting the drill housing from the main valve, thereby allowing easy replacement of a drill bit. Vents are provided both upstream and downstream of the main valve for permitting controlled removal of the contents of the unit with the main valve closed and for permitting controlled removal of any contents of the unit from the coupler with the main valve closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1996
    Assignee: Earth Resources Corporation
    Inventors: Alan M. Hawley, Charles C. Mattern
  • Patent number: 5483990
    Abstract: A valve adapted for insertion in a pressurized fluid flow line for blocking and sealing the flow of fluid through the line without disconnecting the line and to maintain the pressure in the upstream end of the line. The valve includes two body portions which may be clamped on the fluid flow line to form a valve body in which is adjustably mounted an elongated tubular outer shaft, and an elongated cylindrical inner shaft that is rotatably mounted through the tubular outer shaft and carries an annular hole cutter and a tubular seal. The inner shaft is rotatable for driving the annular hole cutter through the line and the outer shaft is rotatable for advancing the inner shaft and annular hole cutter and for positioning the tubular seal in the hole cut through the line to block and seal flow through the downstream portion of the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Assignee: Jomar International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Joseph R. Martin
  • Patent number: 5482329
    Abstract: An adaptor for extending a pipe through a barrier and securing the pipe therein which comprises a pipe segment having a leading end for insertion through the barrier and a trailing end to remain at the insertion side of the barrier upon insertion of the adaptor, each end being adapted to receive a pipe fitting. The leading end is provided with peripheral cutting teeth for boring a hole through and thereby penetrating the barrier upon rotation of the pipe around its longitudinal axis. An externally threaded section along the pipe is sized and configured to be self-threaded though the hole bored by the penetration end to secure the pipe therein and a stop is located toward the trailing end from the threaded section to engaging the outer surface of the barrier to stop further penetration of the adaptor. An installation tool which may be rotationally driven by a hand drill is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Inventors: Delmar L. McCall, Donald P. Millerick, Jeffery T. Millerick
  • Patent number: 5482076
    Abstract: A method is provided for replacing an existing service pipe carrying fluid to an outlet within a property with a replacement service pipe. In the method the outlet is disconnected within the property from the existing service pipe in such a way that both during and after disconnection fluid is prevented from escaping into the property. A desired length of replacement service pipe is then fed into the existing service pipe in such a way that during and after the feeding step fluid is prevented from escaping into the property. The outlet is then connected to the outlet end of the replacement pipe in such a way that during the connection fluid is prevented from escaping into the property and after the connection step fluid is allowed to pass to the outlet solely by way of the replacement pipe 18.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 9, 1996
    Assignee: British Gas plc
    Inventors: John Taylor, Michael Hicks, Richard Lamb, Robert N. Bennett, Keith Nixon, Ian Ashcroft, Adrian S. Parkes, John P. Smith
  • Patent number: 5462077
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for shutting off fluid flow in a pipe main while repairs are being made requires only exposure of the top surface of a buried main and utilizes an anchor system installed in or above the excavation which supports an elongate tubular seal tube against the exposed surface of the main to extend radially therefrom. A jack mechanism compresses the lower end of the seal tube containing a seal member against the exterior surface of the main. A tubular cutting tool installed inside the seal tube is rotated by an air motor to cut a hole in the side wall of the main. A tubular sealant application tool installed inside the seal tube has a nozzle at its bottom end that sprays liquid sealant material onto the interior surface of the main and is then removed. A tubular bladder deployment tool installed inside the seal tube carries a pair of deflated bladders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignees: Brooklyn Union Gas Co., Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Cohen, Curtis E. Leitko, Gerard T. Pittard, Terry P. Clifton, Gerald Rockower
  • Patent number: 5443095
    Abstract: A fluid blocking device for a pipeline having a saddle fitting over an opening in the wall of the pipeline. The device includes an elongated, resilient plug passable through the pipeline opening to block passage of fluid through the pipeline. A resilient ring around the resilient plug mates with the opening in the pipeline and with the saddle fitting to form a fluid tight seal therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventor: F. Raymond Glossop, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5439032
    Abstract: An inflatable gas pipeline stopper is provided for stopping gas from flowing through a broken gas pipeline while effecting repairs of the gas pipeline. The invention includes an elongated cylindrical stopper housing for attachment to a gas pipeline in an air tight engagement which may be accomplished through a commercially available drilling and tapping machine and by an air tight clamp assembly. Within the stopper housing extend a pair of moveable bag inserting and retracting plunger assemblies including rigid air pipes which are attached to an air source at the upper ends thereof and to inflatable air bags at the bottom ends thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Inventor: Joseph Petrone
  • Patent number: 5435340
    Abstract: A pipe coupling apparatus includes a coupling case for surrounding an outer periphery of an existing pipe in a sealed state. The coupling case defines a pipe coupling opening for coupling a new pipe to the coupling case, and an executing opening for use in cutting a branching opening in the existing pipe. A lid is mounted on the coupling case for sealing the executing opening. The branching opening is formed in a way to prevent a fluid from flowing out of the executing opening. The coupling case houses a first valve operable from outside the coupling case to open and close the coupling opening, and a second valve also operable from outside the coupling case to move into the existing pipe through the branching opening for closing one of passages defined by the existing pipe and communicating with the branching opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Yano Giken Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masashi Tabuchi, Haruhiko Shimizu
  • Patent number: 5425395
    Abstract: The tapping apparatus includes a body that receives a cutter and sleeve. The cutter and sleeve advance together to form an opening in the sidewall of a main conduit about which the body is secured. The sleeve includes external threads that grip into the conduit sidewall. Thereafter, retraction of the cutter leaves the sleeve in place to secure the tapping apparatus to the conduit and establish fluid communication therethrough. The cutter and sleeve preferably have different thread pitches so that the sleeve advances at a slightly faster rate than the cutter. This facilitates sealing engagement between the external surface of the main conduit and the body. Additionally, a one-way drive arrangement is provided between the sleeve and cutter so that once the sleeve is positioned in place, the cutter can be removed without altering the location of the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1995
    Assignee: Perfection Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Brennan
  • Patent number: 5400814
    Abstract: A device blocks the flow of fluid in a pipe so that work can be done on the pipe downstream of the device. The device includes an installation unit and a blocking unit. The installation unit is sealed against the ambient when mounted on the pipe to permit drilling a hole into the pipe and the blocking unit includes an expandable body which is passed through the installation unit and on through the hole in order to temporarily block the flow of fluid in the pipe. The expandable body has a larger diameter than the internal diameter of a channel in the installation unit. The blocking unit includes a rod mounted in the holder to which a manual force is applied for distending the expandable body before insertion so that the expandable body has a diameter less than the diameters of both the channel and the hole thereby facilitating passage of the expandable body through the channel and hole into the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Tigerholm AB
    Inventor: Lars Tigerholm
  • Patent number: 5400492
    Abstract: A device and method for removing a branch fitting from a tapped hole in a main water distribution pipeline under pressure includes a water-tight housing adapted to fit on to the pipeline over the fitting. A cutter is provided within the housing to sever the fitting and other devices include a tool holder for use in removing a part of the fitting left in place after severing. Thus, the fitment can be removed and replaced without closing off the water supply within the main distribution pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Assignee: Periquip Services Limited
    Inventors: Steven T. Hodgson, Christopher R. Hodgson, David J. Jarman
  • Patent number: 5398718
    Abstract: Tap line pliers for removing refrigerant from a line of a refrigeration system comprising a set of pliers having jaws at one end and opposed handles at the other end; a platform mechanism coupled within the jaws of the pliers, the platform mechanism adapted for holding a line placed thereon for tapping; a tapping mechanism coupled within the jaws of the pliers, the tapping mechanism adapted for tapping a line held on the platform mechanism; and a valve mechanism coupled to the tapping mechanism, the valve mechanism being adapted for draining a tapped line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: Michael J. Roinick, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5390823
    Abstract: An Oil Filter Punch is a hand tool for draining vehicular oil filters. The tool separates into two assemblies: a Valve and Handle segment; and a Punch and Drain Tube segment. A User may obtain Punch and Drain Tubes of different lengths. The purpose of this segmentation is to allow a User to attach the Punch and Drain Tube with the most suitable length for each filter access problem. The Punch is placed against the lowest point of an installed oil filter. Using simple arm strength or a rubber mallet, the tool is driven through the sheetmetal housing and interior partition of the oil filter. Once the tool has penetrated the two sheetmetal surfaces, friction between the tool and the two sheetmetal surfaces holds the tool suspended from the oil filter. With the filter punctured, oil drains through the cavity of the tool to the low end where it is checked by a valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 21, 1995
    Inventor: Gary H. Kilgore
  • Patent number: 5373866
    Abstract: Refrigerant discharge pliers for removing refrigerant from the lines of refrigeration systems comprising a first rigid bar having a handle formed on one end and a lower jaw formed on the other end. A second rigid bar having a handle formed on one end and an upper jaw formed on the other end. A pivotal mechanism for coupling the jaws and allowing one bar to pivot with respect to the other. A spacer mechanism coupled between the handles for biasing the jaws. A positioning mechanism coupled to the jaws for holding and positioning a line. A piercing mechanism coupled to jaws for piercing a line held by the positioning mechanism, and a discharge mechanism coupled to the piercing mechanism for draining a pierced line held by the positioning mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 20, 1994
    Inventor: John R. Whalen, II
  • Patent number: 5353831
    Abstract: A line-piercing valve assembly comprising first and second clamp housings, adapted to releasably clamp onto a line or section of tubing, a piercing pin insertable within the internal bore of a projection formed on one of the clamp housing, and, a separate one-way valve which mounts within the projection after removal of the piercing pin and can itself be removed and replaced in the event of damage or malfunction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Assignee: Watsco Components, Inc.
    Inventor: Marcus J. Roth
  • Patent number: 5349979
    Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a self-contained line tapping and clamping device for removing fluids from a refrigeration system. The apparatus includes a main inner shaft, and an outer tubular shaft slidably fitting over at least a portion of the inner shaft. A pair of opposing clamp arms are provided, one carried by the lower portion of the inner shaft and the other carried by the outer shaft. The clamp arms align by relative movement of the inner and outer shafts. One of the clamp arms carries a piercing device which includes a piercing point for piercing a line supported by the other clamping arm such that the piercing point is aimed directly at the line. A threaded actuating device including a mechanism for rotating the actuating device is provided for urging the two arms together as they move relative to each other to thereby cause the piercing point to pierce the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1994
    Assignee: Instant Pierce, Inc.
    Inventors: Terri Zeien, Richard Rahn
  • Patent number: 5348045
    Abstract: In a pipe clamp for tapping and closing off plastic supply pipelines, the clamp upper shell is constructed from plastic and provided with a one-piece pipe socket. The clamp upper shell can be welded to the desired position of the supply pipeline. In the pipe socket, a coaxial, tubular metal insert, with an internal thread accessible from the interior of the pipe, is provided. To facilitate the handling of the pipe clamp and to strengthen its plastic, it is proposed that the metal insert, although it is constructed in one piece, be organized in two axial sections, different in shape and action. Of these, only the lower axial section is anchored in the pipe socket, while the upper axial section protrudes freely out of the upper front end of the pipe socket and makes the inner thread conveniently available for connecting eligible functional parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Manibs Spezialarmaturen GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Klaus Serve
  • Patent number: 5345964
    Abstract: A combination pipe piercing fitting and valve including a housing formed of a weldable plastic and having a valve casing communicating with a branch nipple. In the valve casing a valve stem and a boring tool are disposed for axial movement so as first to pierce a pipe welded to the housing and to then selectively open or close the branch nipple from the pipe. A sleeve for guiding the boring tool is axially and rotationally secured in the valve casing and extends at least past the area where the branch nipple enters the valve casing. This guide sleeve has a valve seat at its bottom end and an opening adjacent the branch nipple. This combination fitting and valve assures high operating reliability without leakage both during piercing of the pipe and during operation as a valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 13, 1994
    Assignee: Friatec AG Keramik- und Kunststoffwerke
    Inventor: Norbert Friedel
  • Patent number: 5340244
    Abstract: A tapping assembly comprising a main valve for selectively opening and closing a valve passageway, a support for holding the main valve adjacent a unit to be tapped, a drill for piercing a wall of that unit with the drill including a housing and a cutting element. A coupler is provided with left-hand threads and right-hand threads for easily connecting and disconnecting the drill housing from the main valve, thereby allowing easy replacement of a drill bit. Vents are provided both upstream and downstream of the main valve for permitting controlled removal of the contents of the unit with the main valve closed and for permitting controlled removal of any contents of the unit from the coupler with the main valve closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: Earth Resources Corporation
    Inventors: Alan M. Hawley, Charles C. Mattern
  • Patent number: 5337775
    Abstract: A dispensing tap for flexible bulk beverage containers comprising a body having an inlet and an outlet, the axes of which are transverse, a piercer unit carried within the body adjacent the inlet by a shaft and an outlet sealing means comprising a valve element carried on a valve stem, the valve stem and the shaft being operatively connected such that axial movement of the latter towards the inlet causes the valve stem to move transversely to open the outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 16, 1994
    Assignee: Waddington & Duval Limited
    Inventors: Charles A. Lane, Ian D. Woodward, Derek L. Tyrrell
  • Patent number: 5327923
    Abstract: A valve for installation on a flow line while the flow line is under pressure. The valve includes a two-part valve body and a valve cartridge. Each body portion has a semi-cylindrical channel sized to mate with the flow line. The body portions are secured together with a portion of the flow line enclosed and sealed in the channels of the body portions. A throughbore extends through the two body portions and fully intersects the channels of the two body portions. One end of the throughbore is adapted for attachment of a cutting tool, which is used to cut out the portion of the flow line disposed in the throughbore. After the flow line is cut, the valve cartridge is directed into operating position. A valve stem nut, a valve cap, a valve plug, gaskets, seals and connectors are provided to close and seal both ends of the throughbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Inventors: Louis P. Eischen, Ken Winders
  • Patent number: 5322083
    Abstract: An elongate body includes a first fixed jaw fixedly and orthogonally mounted to the body, having a second sliding jaw, with the fixed jaw and the sliding jaw arranged to secure a pipe therebetween, such as the first jaw includes a piercing head. The piercing head includes a conduit structure in pneumatic communication with further conduit structure directed through the first jaw and body extending through the body, such that the body includes a further projection portion arranged for securement to conductive tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Inventor: Rick A. Olivier
  • Patent number: 5316037
    Abstract: A valve adapted for insertion in a pressurized fluid flow line for blocking and sealing the flow of fluid through the line without disconnecting the line and to maintain the pressure in the upstream end of the line. The valve includes two body portions which may be clamped on the fluid flow line to form a valve body in which is adjustably mounted a shaft carrying an annular hole cutter and a tubular seal. The shaft is rotatable for driving the annular hole cutter through the line and to position the tubular seal in the hole cut through the line to block and seal flow through the downstream portion of the line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 31, 1994
    Assignee: Jomar International, Ltd.
    Inventor: Joseph R. Martin
  • Patent number: 5303732
    Abstract: Valve unit (1) intended for puncturing a film (P), especially a plastic film, thereby creating a tight lead-through through the plastic film (P), which valve unit (1) comprises a first member (2) for puncturing the plastic film (P), which first member (2) has a hollow space (5a) and at least one opening (5) leading through between the outside of the first member (2) and said hollow space (5a), and further a second member (3), which is intended to be positioned on the side of the plastic film (P), which is opposite to the first member (2) when the valve unit (1) is attached to a plastic film (P), said hollow space (5a) being in open connection with the surrounding atmosphere through the second member (3), a groove (7) extending around the circumference in the area between the first and the second members (2,3) being disposed to receive the edge portion of the plastic film (P) around the valve unit (1), which has been pricked through the plastic film (P), and an annular, resilient element (12) being displaceabl
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Assignee: Ekolag AB
    Inventor: Claes Jonsson
  • Patent number: 5301532
    Abstract: The instant device serves to pierce and irrigate fluid filled tubing. It consists of an upper jaw and a lower jaw mounted on locking pliers. The upper jaw consists of an upper jaw mounting plate fastened to the upper jaw of the locking pliers and a piercing pin unit, along with a replaceable hollow press fit piercing pin held within such unit which piercing pin unit is held in the upper jaw mounting plate after the unit's insertion through a metallic washer locking cushion. The device's lower jaw consists of a lower jaw tube cradle component mounting plate fastened to the lower jaw of the locking pliers and further consists of a tube cradle component with eight cylindrically shaped notches for receipt of any one of six different sizes of cylindrically shaped tubing. The tube cradle component is held to the lower jaw tube cradle component mounting plate by way of a threaded retaining shoulder bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Inventors: Carl E. Bickmore, Larry F. Langlais
  • Patent number: 5301709
    Abstract: A check valve (10) and method of assembling semicircular valve discs (38, 40) within blind openings (28, 30) in the valve body (12). A hinge pin (46) for the semicircular valve discs (38, 40) is of a length less than the diameter of the flow passage through the valve body (12) and has sleeves (52) mounted thereon for relative movement between a retracted position for insertion within the valve body (12) and a projected position within the blind openings (28, 30) for supporting the hinge pin (46) and discs (38, 40). A subassembly comprising the hinge pin (46), the semicircular valve discs (38, 40), spring (48), snap rings (60), and sleeves (52) is first formed and then inserted within the valve body (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 12, 1994
    Assignee: Gulf Valve Company
    Inventor: Richard C. Gasaway
  • Patent number: 5291914
    Abstract: A fluid recovery tool for forming an opening in a pipe, tube, or other fluid-carrying conduit includes a pair of pliers having two handle portions pivotally attached and moveable with respect to each other. Each handle portion of the pliers terminates in a jaw portion, and the jaw portions are located in opposed moveable relation to one another. A piercing valve assembly is removably mounted to the pair of pliers for penetrating the pipe. The piercing valve assembly includes a pair of housing members pivotally attached to each other. One of the pair of housing members receives one of the jaw portions and is removably mounted thereto, while the other of the pair of housing members receives the other of the jaw portions and is removably mounted thereto. The piercing valve assembly further includes a piercing element mounted in the upper housing member for piercing the pipe, and a conduit for fluidly connecting the piercing element with a remote storage container or vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: Milbar Corporation
    Inventors: Jack A. Bares, Gary E. Medved
  • Patent number: 5285806
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for sealing off flow in a pipeline for the purpose of repairing the line includes a combination of a restraining rod and inflation bag which can be installed on either or both sides of the intended site of repair; and a flexible sleeve is provided for use in association with the entry ports and any associated valve members for insertion of the restraining rod and bag to prevent the escape of gas from the line during the insertion procedures. Once the line is repaired, the restraining rod and inflation bag can be removed and the entry ports completely sealed off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Assignee: Public Service Company of Colorado
    Inventor: Daniel A. Ortega
  • Patent number: 5286070
    Abstract: A saddle tee connector assembly for making a tee connection to a copper tube comprises a saddle tee connector with a bottom clamping portion, a top clamping portion with an outwardly extending boss which has a bore, an annular chamber in the bottom of the bore, a cutting pin positioned in the bore, and a drive nut which is rotated to move the cutting pin downwardly in the bore to cut a hole in the tube and is rotated in the opposite direction to retract the cutting pin from the hole in the tube. The drive nut and pin are removed to permit the attachment of a tube to the boss to form a tee connection. A method is provided for using the saddle tee connector assembly to make a tee connection to a tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Inventor: Richard T. Williams
  • Patent number: 5275013
    Abstract: A refrigerant tube piercing tool capable of being removably and sealingly mounted on a refrigerant tube of copper or the like in a sealed refrigerant system to enable the recovery of refrigerant from the sealed system without discharge into the atmosphere. The tool includes a pair of clamp members one of which includes a sealing member and passageway combined with a threaded, pointed piercing member that is manually threaded into engagement with the tube for forming a hole therein and a fitting having a Schrader valve incorporated therein to which a hose leading to a recovery tank can be connected to enable refrigerant to be transferred into the recovery tank for subsequent use. The tool is reusable and can be removed after the refrigerant has been transferred into the recovery tank in order that the leak or other problem with respect to the refrigerant system can be repaired at which time the hole formed in the tube is closed by soldering or the like with the refrigerant system then being recharged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Inventors: Leslie D. Price, Frederick M. Scheiben
  • Patent number: 5269340
    Abstract: A combination pipe cutter and gate valve for plastic pipe insertable into an in service pipe through which a fluid is flowing. The combination pipe cutter and gate valve comprises a valve body, means for securing a valve body around a portion of the plastic pipe into which the valve is to be inserted, a shear disposed within the valve body, means for lowering the shear toward the pipe and a cutting element secured to the leading edge of the shear, the cutting element forming a single cutting edge having a length such that the pipe is completely severed after the shear has passed completely through the pipe. As the shear passes through the pipe, the plastic material of the plastic pipe is deformed forming a seal against the faces of the shear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Assignee: Institute of Gas Technology
    Inventor: Gregory J. Drzewiecki
  • Patent number: 5257644
    Abstract: An apparatus for hot tap cutting of plastic pipe comprising an electrode having a cutting edge, means for heating said electrode, and an insulating sheath, means for controlling movement of the electrode, and a housing containing the electrode, said housing sealingly securable to at least a portion of a plastic pipe whereby fluid pressure is maintained in the plastic pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Institute of Gas Technology
    Inventors: Narayan C. Saha, James E. Huebler
  • Patent number: 5241981
    Abstract: A pressure responsive relief valve assembly for relieving an overpressure condition in a piping system includes a valve and a mounting saddle formed as a unit body with a pipe tapping conduit projecting outwardly therefrom for providing communication between the interior of a piping system and the valve, an opposing saddle, and bolts or other fasteners for clamping the saddles to opposite sides of a pipe. Upon tightly clamping the valve assembly to the pipe, the pipe tapping conduit punctures the pipe wall to communicate the valve with the interior of the pipe. A gasket is provided intermediate the valve assembly and the pipe to prevent leakage. The assembly may thus advantageously be installed on a pipe without interrupting fluid flow therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1993
    Assignee: Conbraco Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick H. Ahern
  • Patent number: 5234015
    Abstract: The gas supply mechanism with a safety device of the present invention uses a small size high pressure gas container. In connection with a gas passage, a safety device is installed, which allows the gas in the passage to flow out gradually when the gas pressure in the passage rises excessively. A gas discharge port of this safety device is open on the same surface as the surface of the main body and does not protrude from the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Assignee: Nippon Tansan Gas Company Limited
    Inventor: Ichiro Fumino
  • Patent number: 5186199
    Abstract: A conduit stopper is used for interrupting the flow of fluid through an elongated conduit. The conduit stopper has a nozzle sealingly mounted on the elongated conduit. The conduit has an aperture communicating with the nozzle. A deformable sealing element having opposed substantially flat sides is movably mounted in the nozzle and is engageable with the interior of the conduit to interrupt the flow of fluid through the conduit. A carrier is sealingly connected to the sealing element. An actuator is connected to the carrier for moving the carrier into sealing communication with the nozzle and then to deform the sealing element into sealing engagement with the interior of the conduit while the carrier and the nozzle are in sealing communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Inventors: Kevin P. Murphy, Garland Y. Smith
  • Patent number: 5183364
    Abstract: A device for installing an in-line valve in a pipe through which fluids under pressure may be flowing. The device has a hollow coring bit and a boring and support housing. The hollow coring bit is housed and guided by the boring and support housing. The hollow coring bit cuts through the sidewalls of the pipe and forms an in-line valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Inventor: Ronald B. Hardwig
  • Patent number: 5170813
    Abstract: A tapping band allowing for interconnection of fluid conduits without any interruption to fluid flow includes means (1A and 1B) adapted, in use, to be disposed around a first pipe (2) and having an outlet (3) extending substantially normally therefrom, the outlet (3) in turn defining the locale intended for tapping. The outlet (3) includes a slot (9) for receiving and releasably retaining a sealing member, in the form of a valve blade (10). The arrangement is such that, once in position relative to the conduit (2), a suitable drilling means is employed for tapping into the conduit (2) via the outlet (3), with the valve means then acting to seal the outlet (3) once the tapping means has been withdrawn. A secondary conduit (20) can then be joined to conduit (2) in any known manner and, when joined, the valve blade (10) can be withdrawn from the slot (9), thereby allowing fluid to pass from conduit (2) into conduit (20).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Inventor: Robert A. Francis
  • Patent number: 5163462
    Abstract: An apparatus for tapping a fluid through a wall, comprising a vacuum source (24), a tapping head (1) provided at the front thereof with a circumferential seal (3) bounding a contact area, perforating means (4) to be brought into a position extending through the contact area, and at least one conduit (11, 111, and 211) communicating with the contact area for discharging air from the contact area enclosed by the seal (3) and for discharging fluid released. The invention provides an apparatus for easily and reliably tapping fluid that may be under excess pressure through a wall. In the contact area a reduced pressure can be generated by the vacuum source, resulting in that the tapping head is held against the wall and moreover no fluid can release into the atmosphere.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1992
    Inventors: Geert H. Leemput, Herman Leemput
  • Patent number: 5161617
    Abstract: An apparatus for installing a selectively reopenable shut-off valve into an oil well casing of the type having an outer production casing and an inner production pipe suspended therein including a laterally installed casing plug to which independent flow diversion apparatus are attached after the casing is plugged and flow is initially stopped to allow temporary diversion and continued separated and independent flow from the annulus between the outer casing and inner pipe and from the pipe itself. The apparatus is particularly adapted to shut off a well which is burning or flowing out of control so that suitable repairs may be effected at the wellhead, while production is continued via the separately diverted flows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1992
    Assignee: Marquip, Inc.
    Inventor: Carl R. Marschke
  • Patent number: 5152310
    Abstract: An in-line valve for mounting within an existing fluid line to temporarily block the flow of fluid downstream from the valve without interrupting the flow of fluid upstream of the valve. Two valve half bodies create a cylindrical aperture therebetween which is complementary to the conduit when securely mounted thereon. Extending through the center of each valve half body is an aperture generally orthogonal to, and passing through, the first aperture. An annular shaft extends through the second aperture which has at least two outer diameters with a shoulder presented at the point of diametric change. Encircling at least a portion of the main shaft is an annular flexible seal with one end abutting the shoulder allowing the smaller diameter of the main shaft to extend therethrough. The cutter abuts the flexible seal such that the seal is interposed between the larger diameter of the main shaft and the cutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Inventor: Philip J. O'Bryon
  • Patent number: 5131283
    Abstract: A tool for piercing an electric distribution transformer tank for obtaining a sample of oil therefrom to be tested for PCB contamination is disclosed. The tool includes a threaded body with a wrenchable fitting on one end and a tank punch pin on the other and is adapted for threadable insertion into a threaded hollow shaft of a ground lug nut attached to the tank. The pin is advanced in the lug nut shaft to pierce the tank by wrenchably rotating the fitting. Hollow shafts formed through the pin, punch body and fitting provide a path for the flow of oil from a space in the lug nut shaft between the hole in the tank and the end of the punch body to a syringe which contains a threaded tip inserted into a threaded shaft in the fitting when suction is drawn by the syringe on the shafts after the hole is punched and the pin is backed slightly out of the hole. A threaded nut seals the threaded shaft in the fitting after the filled syringe is removed from the tool to prevent oil leakage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Inventor: Michael H. Canfield
  • Patent number: 5105844
    Abstract: A T-branch formation device using two identical side members to form a snap-on saddle around a resilient plastic pipe and a screw-in coupling cutter which cuts through resilient piping, retains the cut piece, and simultaneously provides a threaded surface for attaching a branch tubing which forms a leak-proof connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Inventor: Lloyd H. King, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5103865
    Abstract: A molded assembly comprising a wall made from a plastic sheet that is pliable at a first elevated temperature. A body having a penetrating portion and a connecting portion forms an aperture in the wall, the connecting portion extends through the aperture and is made from a material resistant to melting at the first temperature. The connecting portion is made from a material that will at least partially melt at the first temperature. The connecting portion engages one surface of the wall, whereby when the wall is raised to the first temperature, the connecting portion partially melts and becomes integral with the wall when returned to ambient temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: James P. Hyde
  • Patent number: 5099804
    Abstract: A pressure relief device for accessing a cooling system of an internal combustion engine under a pressure greater than ambient pressure whereby the pressure is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Assignee: First Brands Corporation
    Inventor: Richard F. Creeron
  • Patent number: 5082026
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a pipeline plugger for mounting on a pipe which pipe has an insertion port. The pipeline plugger includes a housing adapted for mounting on the pipe adjacent to the insertion port. A rod is mounted in the housing and is axially movably transverse to the axis of the pipe. The rod has a carrier block connected to one end. A holding pin is mounted on the carrier block substantially opposed to the rod. The pipe has a pin aperture substantially opposite to the insertion port. The pin aperture is adapted to receive the pin. A plug is pivotally connected to the carrier block. The plug is adapted to be selectively positioned in the pipe to stop the flow of fluid through the pipe past the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1987
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Inventor: Garland Y. Smith
  • Patent number: RE35116
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for injecting sealant into a packing assembly chamber surrounding a valve stem 11 of a valve 2 without venting the pressure within the valve 2. A cylindrical body 60 is frictionally welded to the exterior of the valve 2 adjacent the packing assembly chamber. A drill bit is passed into the body 60 and through a set of packing seals 87. An opening is completed into the packing chamber. As the drill bit is withdrawn from the body 60, a second valve 70 is manually "closed" to isolate the packing chamber from the drill bit and prevent the escape of pressurized fluid when the drill bit is removed from the seals 87. Thereafter, a device for injecting sealant is attached to the body 60 and the valve 70 is "opened" to allow the sealant to flow into the packing chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Inventors: Johnny L. Butler, Richard Wakeland, Donald R. Batson, Robert E. Metzger