Abstract: A respiratory valve device includes a catheter balloon configured for being disposed in a respiratory gas pathway and valving the respiratory gas pathway.

Abstract: An inflatable purge dam apparatus for use with pipes of different nominal pipe size (NPS) includes first and second inflatable purge bladders, and an intermediate bridge conduit. In a first aspect, the purge bladders each comprise an expandable inner purge gas retaining liner and a heat-resistant stretchable outer protective cover. The protective covers comprise a heat-resistant stretchable material that is constructed to undergo variable stretching to increase the size of the purge bladders as they are inflated with purge gas to a desired sealing pressure, thereby allowing the purge bladders to form an effective weld zone seal in pipes of different NPS. In a second aspect, an air vent conduit extends between first and second ports located proximate to a longitudinal centerline of the first purge bladder. The air vent conduit provides a vent pathway for venting air from the weld zone through the first purge bladder.

Abstract: An isolation tool is adapted for location in a pipe and includes a first plug module and a second plug module. The first plug module is configurable to grip the pipe and permit fluid bypass, to prevent fluid bypass without gripping the pipe, and to isolate the pipeline with gripping and leak tight sealing allowing a section to be fully de-pressurised. In use, the first and second plug modules are inserted into opposite ends of the pipe. The first plug module is pigged to a location in the second mode with a seal against the pipe but no grip then is configured in the fluid bypass mode when the second plug module is travelling through the pipe so that fluid displaced by the second plug module bypasses the first plug module. The second plug module and first plug module are then sealingly secured to the pipe to isolate a section of the pipe wall having a restriction.

Abstract: An apparatus for fluid flow control, including flow stoppage, in a pipe having a saddle fitting with an axially extending outer launch tube and a coaxially aligned inner launch tube longitudinally split into two inner launch tube halves disposed within the axially extending outer launch tube. At least one inflatable flow stopper bag is disposed within the inner launch tube for stopping flow of a fluid through the pipe with which the saddle fitting is connected. An inner launch tube control rod for manipulating each of the inner launch tube halves during the inflatable stopper insertion and removal processes is connected with each of the inner launch tube halves, and a flow stopper bag control rod for manipulating the inflatable flow stoppers is connected with each of the inflatable flow stopper bags.

Abstract: A leaking block valve isolation tool for insertion through a vent duct and blocking valve of a gas flow duct. The isolation tool includes an outer tube having proximal and distal ends, the outer tube having a diameter sized to extend through the vent duct and blocking valve. An inner tube having proximal and distal ends is arranged coaxially with and movable within the outer tube. An inflatable balloon is attached to the distal end of the inner tube, wherein the isolation tool outer tube is insertable through the vent duct to an opening in the gas flow duct. The inner tube is slidably insertable through the outer tube until the balloon is situated within a bore formed through the gas flow duct and is inflatable therein to block any gas leak through the gas flow duct.

Abstract: An inflatable device for blocking a chimney flue or other duct is in the form of a plastics bag 1 having an inflation tube 2 that opens through the wall of the bag 1 into a flexible, tubular sleeve 4 that is sealed circumferentially to the bag-wall at each of its opposite ends 5,6 within the bag 1. The sleeve 4 is vented into the bag 1 via diametrically-opposed apertures 7 mid-way between its ends 5,6 so that on inflation of the bag 1 the sleeve 4 limits distention of the bag 1 longitudinally of the sleeve 4 to a flatish form. The bag 1 is constructed of two plastics sheets 8,9 that are sealed together in a peripheral rim 10 with the two ends 5,6 of the sleeve 4 sealed centrally to the two sheets 8,9 respectively, and with an open end of the inflation tube 2 sealed through the bag-wall centrally within one end 5 of the sleeve 4. The rim 10 of the bag 1 is bowed inwardly to allow for limited ventilation of the otherwise-blocked chimney flue or duct.

Abstract: A device and method for repairing the junction of a main pipe line and a lateral pipe. The device uses a series of independently controlled bladders to adjust the timing and pressure exerted by the bladders on the pipes. The device also uses a liner assembly of resin absorbent material is formed, with a tubular lateral liner connected to a concentric circular main liner. The liner also includes an opening to facilitate loading of the liner in the device. Upon loading the bladders and resin-embedded liner into a train, the device is positioned and the bladders independently inflated, either concurrently or in sequence, installing the liner assembly onto the pipe. Once the resin is cured, the bladder assembly and launcher are removed from the sewer pipe.

Abstract: An Improved system for killing roots in sewers without stopping the existing sewer flow, a portable system to eliminate the roots in the sewers, this system makes it possible to treat the roots by treating only the zone concerned and not the overall length of the drain of sewer. The invention enters the sewer by an opening and travels to the problem and inflates in order to retain the poison dispensed by the dispenser. This system makes it possible to more easily deal with problems of roots in the sewers more quickly and, which makes it possible to reduce the cost. All the zones touched by problems of roots can be treated, treatment limits the progression of the roots and destroys them, which makes it possible to prevent the over flow of sewers and the damage of the drains of sewers. The prevention of overflows of sewers makes it possible to protect our wild, aquatic life and our water supply. Basically to help save our environment.

Abstract: An inflatable plug assembly includes a first inflatable plug, a second inflatable plug, and a first mount coupled to the first inflatable plug. The first mount is configured to deliver fluid to and inflate the first inflatable plug. The inflatable plug assembly also includes a second mount coupled to the second inflatable plug. The second mount is configured to deliver fluid to and inflate the second inflatable plug. The second mount is secured to the first mount. The first inflatable plug and the second inflatable plug are independently inflatable.

Abstract: An inflatable conduit plug is used to seal a conduit such as a floor drain or an air vent. The conduit plug includes a shroud that is removably sealed within the conduit so that fluids pass through the shroud opening. Axially disposed within the shroud is an inflatable bladder adapted for closing the shroud opening. The inflatable bladder is inflated by an inflation signal generated by a controller upon receipt of a contamination signal received from a remote contamination detector. The plug operates in a wireless environment and can be controlled remotely. The plug can also be adapted for diverting contamination away from sensitive lands and storm drains.

Abstract: A conical-shaped plug member integrally comprising soft, porous foam material and having a helical profile for plugging the gap space in between the flights of an auger when an auger is not in use. Helical auger plug systems may comprise a removably attachable flag to indicate when the plug member is in use (inserted). The plug member of the present invention is designed to reduce the loss of heat (or cooling air) within/from a grain bin during the heating and drying process while preventing rodents and other animals from entering the grain storage bin through the auger flightings and infesting the grain.

Abstract: A pipe plug includes two or more pivotally connected plugging heads that work in combination to double block and bleed a pipe. At least one of the plugging heads has an expandable sealing element that is in communication with an inflation source. The sealing element may be an inflatable sealing element or a compression packer sealing element. A passageway—sections of which may pass through the pivotal connection and into the plugging head—carries the inflation medium from the source to the sealing element. A bleed port passageway is also provided that passes through the plugging head. The leading plugging head may include a cleaning element for sweeping away debris ahead of the plug. The plugging heads may also include a skid plate that slideably engages the interior surface of the pipe to properly orient the plugging heads within the pipe.

Abstract: An inflatable safety device is provided. A method of using an inflatable safety device in an overhead conduit or area of a cement manufacturing plant to keep debris from falling on a worker below the device, is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention is a readily collapsible lightweight, support structure utilizing one or more three dimensional shapes formed from a material exhibiting compressive strength in a high longitudinal to transverse ratio. The composite anisotropic materials preferably comprise a reinforced polymer with continuous, high modulus unidirectional fibers.

Abstract: A pipeline isolation plug for location in a section of pipe has two seal modules coupled together by a ball joint. The first module has a mandrel defining a pressure head which, in use, is exposed to the pipeline pressure. A seal element is mounted behind the pressure head and is radially extendable to engage a pipe inner wall. The second module has a mandrel defining a pressure head which, in use, is exposed to the fluid pressure between the first and second modules. Two axially spaced seal elements are mounted on the mandrel behind the pressure head and are radially extendable to engage the pipe inner wall.

Abstract: A plug having a pressure release valve for releasing excess pressure within a bladder of the plug. The release valve has a valve core with a pressure release passage therethrough with an inlet in fluid communication with an interior void of the bladder and an outlet in fluid communication with the external environment outside the bladder. An elastomeric seal under hoop stress about a portion of the valve core seals the outlet until overinflation of the bladder causes the seal to become elastically deflected and unseal the outlet, thereby allowing excess pressure to be released. When the overinflation no longer exists because of the pressure release, the hoop stress of the seal causes resealing of the outlet. An inflation valve may also be provided to inflate the bladder, and with the inlet opening into an inflation passageway into the bladder's interior.

Abstract: A method of patching a well or a pipe by hydroforming a tubular metal patch. A tool provided with a pair of inflatable packers is inserted inside the patch. The pair of inflatable packers are axially spaced apart from each other by a distance that is substantially equal to the length of the patch. The tool is positioned inside the patch so that the packers are in register with the end portions of the patch. The assembly of the tool and the patch is axially inserted inside the well or the pipe, and positioned in register with the zone for patching. The packers are inflated to a high pressure, sufficient for radially expanding the end portions of the patch and pressing them in a leak-tight manner against the wall of the well or the pipe. The packers are subsequently deflated and the tool is withdrawn. The method is applicable to the oil industry.

Abstract: An apparatus for forming an inflatable closing plug has a winding head rotatable around a path defining a winding plane. The winding head is arranged to dispense one or more continuous lines from a supply of line via a guide arrangement. A preform is rotationally supported on an axis at a shallow angle with respect to the winding plane such than the winding plane intersects the preform. By providing a spreading arrangement to locate the windings on the preform over a band having a width perpendicular to the winding plane, a smoother distribution of windings can be achieved.

Abstract: A flexible inflatable packer for use in installation of a sealant such as grout in joints and defects in a conduit such as a sewer pipe, and a method for sealing defects in a conduit by use of such a packer. The packer can collapse to a slender configuration for movement through a small conduit to a location along the length of the conduit where repair is needed. The packer can be inflated to place a sealing portion adjacent each end of the packer into sealing contact with the interior of the conduit, while a centrally located portion of the packer defines space into which a fluid sealant can be installed to repair cracks or holes in the conduit. The centrally located portion of the packer supports the sealant material during a process of curing.

Abstract: A plug assembly 10 includes a housing 14 and one or more covers 16 coupled to the housing. The plug assembly 10 includes at least one mounting plate 12a, 12b positioned between the housing 14 and the cover 16 for movement relative thereto between an extended position and a retracted position. The plug assembly 10 includes an actuator 17 engageble with the mounting plates 12a, 12b for moving the mounting plates between the extended position and the retracted position in response to a command issued from a controller 62. During operation, the plug assembly 10 is positioned in a conduit 18 and the mounting plates 12a, 12b are moved to the extended position thereby releasably securing the plug assembly at a desired location in the conduit.

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.

Abstract: The invention herein presented involves two (2) alternative equipment and methods which could be used independently or together, depending on the application and means available to have them implemented, for plugging or stopping active flow of fluid from a damaged or broken pipeline, said pipeline possibly being located at depths of thousands of feet in ocean water.

Abstract: An apparatus for rapidly terminating of the flow of any fluid or particulate material through a conduit responsive to predefined dangerous conditions. A particular application will terminate fuel flow through a large fuel supply conduit in a racing vehicle responsive to a fire or accident or other dangerous condition. The apparatus includes a gas supply source that is opened responsive to actuation of the apparatus such that gas passes into a cylinder which moves to force a liquid to hydraulically expand an inflatable member which is operative to expand within the flow conduit to instantaneously terminate material flow therethrough.

Abstract: Installation of a flexible cured in place liner by inverting the liner with air and curing the liner with steam introduced through a perforated lay flat hose without deflating the liner between the inversion and cure. The installation is performed with an apparatus having two independently operable glands with at least one fluid inlet port installed on the line downstream of the second gland liner. As the liner reaches the distal end of the conduit to be lined, it enters a sample and porting pipe with an exhaust pipe gland and exhaust pipe and it is pierced by a rigid porting tool. Steam is then introduced into the lay flat hose to cure the resin and is exhausted through an exhaust hose connected to a controllable exhaust pipe. After curing steam is replaced with air to cool the liner, the ends are cut to restore service through the host pipe.

Abstract: The present invention provides a test plug for use with a clean-out that extends at an angle from a pipe section of a pipe system. In general, the test plug includes a sealing assembly that is actuated by an actuating member extending at an angle from the sealing assembly. The sealing assembly includes a first plate, a second plate, a valve that is configured to draw the first and second plates together, and a ring-shaped sealing member located between the first and second plates. In various embodiments, the actuating member is configured to move the valve between an open position, in which test media may be communicated through at least one opening in the first plate and through at least one opening in the second plate, and a closed position, in which the valve seals the opening of the first plate and in which the sealing member extends outwardly to seal against an internal surface of the pipe section.

Abstract: A rupture disc assembly for pneumatic plugs constructed and arranged to cooperate with an aperture in an end casting or other plug component to expel excess air from the plug interior when a predetermined internal plug pressure is reached. The rupture disc holder assembly may have a two part body structure and be mounted to the inside or outside of the pneumatic plug. The rupture disc assembly utilizes a rupturable member in a flanged holder structure positioned in communication with the pneumatic plug.

Abstract: A repair device and method for its use includes plugs that pressure isolate an internally damaged pipeline section and an hermetically sealed housing that contains a length of composite material and a means for controllably releasing the composite material. In a preferred embodiment, the composite material is a pre-cured composite plank and the releasing means is a rotatable carriage assembly. The carriage assembly includes pairs of rollers that maintain the composite material in its coiled state and provide for its controlled release onto the interior wall of the pipeline. The carriage assembly also includes a nozzle for injecting an adhesive into a roller. The roller applies the adhesive onto the interior wall surface and then presses the composite material into the adhesive as the carriage assembly rotates and the composite material uncoils. A pneumatic or electric motor may be used to power the carriage assembly.

Abstract: The present invention regards a barrier plug system (3) for sealing off a pipe (1), comprising a plug body, a first and a second end plate surface (11, 31) arranged on opposite sides of the plug body and at least one circumferential sealing means (6) and means (8) for setting the plug system (3). The plug body comprises at least two separate plug body elements (10, 30) movable relative each other and the at least one sealing means (6) is arranged abutting two opposite annular pressing surfaces (12, 32) formed by the plug body, which are moved towards each other during setting of the plug system (3). The pressing surfaces (12, 32) are limited in the movement against each other by stop means and pre-tensioned to move toward each other by at least one tensioning device (7).

Abstract: A low pressure directional stop bypass device including a saddle fitting having an axially extending tubular connection element having a connection element wall forming a lateral bypass port, a valve assembly connected with the axially extending tubular connection element having a first valve port in fluid communication with the lateral bypass port and having a second valve port, and a stuffing box connected with the second valve port. A launch tube assembly is inserted through the stuffing box and the valve assembly into the axially extending tubular connection element. The launch tube element includes an outer tubular member, an inner tubular member disposed within the outer tubular member, and a stopper supply tube having a leading end and a trailing end and disposed within the inner tubular member. A flexible inflatable stopper plug connected with the leading end of the stopper supply tube.

Abstract: Embodiments provide an apparatus and methods for providing a nonlabor-intensive process for preventing backfill entering, or environmental factors eroding, a cavity formed in the ground. Preventing cavity degradation involves constructing a chemically-inflatable bag that separates two or more chemical reactants by creases and cylindrical coils formed in the chemically-inflatable bag. The creases typically act as watertight releasable seals that separate the chemical reactants while the cylindrical coils resist unintentional compromise of the releasable seals. However, the cylindrical coils are designed to give way upon the user applying an unfurling action on the chemically-inflatable bag; thus, furnishing a passageway for the chemical reactants to intermix and initiate a chemical reaction. The chemical reaction produces carbon dioxide as a by-product, which expands the chemically-inflatable bag from a collapsed condition to an inflated condition.

Abstract: An isolation tool for use in a pipe comprises a seal unit, the seal unit being mounted to a launching assembly. The seal unit is adapted for location in a section of pipe, the seal unit adapted to be inserted into the pipe via a single opening in the pipe wall. The seal unit comprises seal elements for engaging the pipe wall to isolate a section of pipe. The seal elements are initially retained in a retracted configuration. Hydraulic pressure is applied to a cylinder, a piston located in the cylinder being translated into the seal unit, causing compression of the seal elements.

Abstract: A flexible inflatable packer for use in installation of a sealant such as grout in joints and defects in a conduit such as a sewer pipe, and a method for sealing defects in a conduit by use of such a packer. The packer can collapse to a slender configuration for movement through a small conduit to a location along the length of the conduit where repair is needed. The packer can be inflated to place a sealing portion adjacent each end of the packer into sealing contact with the interior of the conduit, while a centrally located portion of the packer defines space into which a fluid sealant can be installed to repair cracks or holes in the conduit. The centrally located portion of the packer supports the sealant material during a process of curing.

Abstract: The invention comprises a device for expanding tubular members to a controlled diameter and its method of fabrication. The device includes an expandable bladder held in a convoluted form. After the device is inserted into a cylindrical tube to be evenly expanded, the bladder is expanded by hydraulic pressure to a controlled maximum diameter. It is then deflated so the device can then be moved to another location and reused. The bladder is formed from a flexible impervious material having integral reinforcing fibers. It is initially formed in a fully expanded configuration over a convoluted mandrel and a removable cylindrical shell. When the shell is removed vacuum or external pressure draws the bladder against the mandrel. The bladder is overmolded with a resilient cover to hold it in reduced form until pressurized. The bladder cover prevents the bladder from kinking during the expansion.

Abstract: A double plug head for plugging a pipe. The double plug head includes a primary rubber packing, a roller support, a tube support and a rubber tube. The primary rubber packing is provided on a mounting plate of a plugging machine. The roller support is provided with a plurality of rollers. The tube support is provided between the primary rubber packing and the roller support. A tube seating depression is formed around the circumferential surface of the tube support. A fluid feed path is formed in the tube support. The rubber tube is seated into the tube seating depression and has a nipple connected to an outlet of the fluid feed path. Communication holes which communicate with the fluid feed path are respectively formed in the primary rubber packing and the mounting plate. A fluid hose is connected to the communication hole of the mounting plate.

Abstract: The spill curtailing tool has an elongated expandable frame; a first handle on a first end of the frame; a second handle mounted to an intermediate position along the frame, and a tube mounted to a second end of the elongated frame. The second end of the frame supporting the tube is telescopically movable toward and away from the first and second handles. A pair of pressurized instant-foam-producing tanks are mounted to the elongated telescoping frame between the first and second handles. The tanks are connected by hoses to the tube for delivering instant foam through the tube. A folded bladder is mounted over the tube for receiving instant foam therein. The tube is angularly movable relative to a plane of the elongated frame, such that it can be pointed in different directions relative to a plane of the elongated frame.

Abstract: A system and method for inhibiting gas release while accessing a pressurized gas pipeline includes a magnetic plug holder for magnetically engaging a pipe plug to a rod. A housing is sealingly engaged to a valve attached to the pipeline, and the rod is movable through the housing in a sealing fashion such that the plug holder can be moved linearly and rotationally relative to the housing. The housing can be sealingly attached to a portion of the valve, the valve can be opened, and the plug holder with a threaded plug magnetically engaged thereto lowered through the valve. The rod can be rotated from outside the housing to thread the plug into the threaded hole in the pipeline.

Abstract: An apparatus for isolating and/or testing a section of a pipe includes a generally annular body having, on each end, a boss. A resilient member such as an O-ring is provided between the annular body and each boss. A series of electromagnets are provided for forcing or urging the bosses towards each other thereby resulting in deformation of the resilient members resulting in a seal being formed between the apparatus and the pipe. A method for isolating and/or testing a pipe segment is also provided.

Abstract: An inflatable conduit plug is used to seal a conduit such as a floor drain or an air vent. The conduit plug includes a shroud that is removably sealed within the conduit so that fluids pass through the shroud opening. Axially disposed within the shroud is an inflatable bladder adapted for closing the shroud opening. The inflatable bladder is inflated by an inflation signal generated by a controller upon receipt of a contamination signal received from a remote contamination detector. The plug operates in a wireless environment and can be controlled remotely. The plug can also be adapted for diverting contamination away from sensitive lands and storm drains.

Abstract: A device and method for internally repairing pipes. The device consists of a reusable, elastomeric shell configurable for two, three, and four-pipe junctions. The design of the device aids in positioning the expandable shell over and helps seal off the leak area inside a pipe. Once inflated into proper position, a sealant is injected into the leak area. Not only does the sealant eventually seal and fortify inside the pipe it also forms a seal around the outside of the pipe. Once the sealant has cured, the device is deflated and removed from the pipe. Minimal pipe preparations are necessary before implementing a repair. The device can also be temperature modulated to enhance sealant cure.

Abstract: A plug for the sealed closing of a pipe is provided. The plug comprises a sleeve and a cylindrical main body having a connection for a pressure line. The sleeve is coupled to the cylindrical main body so that the sleeve and the cylindrical main body form an outwardly sealed pressurized area, which communicates with the connection.

Abstract: A repair sleeve carrier for transporting a repair liner into a conduit to the location of damage or leakage for repairing the conduit from the inside, the sleeve carrier having a segmented flex tubing and a bladder with ends attached to the flex tubing and an unattached middle portion forming a cavity between the middle portion of the bladder and the flex tubing with an air passage to the cavity, the sleeve carrier having an air supply connect or that connects to an air supply to provide pressurized air to the cavity through the passage to inflate the bladder.

Abstract: A heat exchanger according to certain embodiments includes an outer portion formed of at least one inflatable cell and an inner portion. The inflatable cell has inner and outer surfaces that are separated from each other and at least partially support the outer portion when inflated. The outer portion defines a first interior passage configured to convey fluid. The inner portion is positioned within the outer portion, the inner portion defining a second interior passage configured to convey fluid.

Abstract: The present invention provides a pneumatic test plug that seals a portion of a pipe section having a generally cylindrical internal pipe wall. In general, the pneumatic test plug includes an inflation valve mounted in the bladder wall of an inflatable bladder. The inflation valve includes a main air passageway through which air is introduced into the bladder and a separate release channel. The separate release channel includes an inlet disposed toward an interior end of the inflation valve and an outlet in fluid communication with an exterior environment outside the bladder. When in a sealed position, a sealing portion of the bladder engages the interior end of the inflation valve and sealingly closes the inlet of the release channel. When the sealing portion is elastically deflected by overinflation of the bladder, the sealing portion uncovers the inlet of the release channel to allow air to escape from the interior area of the bladder through the release channel to the exterior environment.

Abstract: A system for restricting fluid flow through a conduit comprises a tapping saddle configured to couple to the conduit adjacent to an opening in the conduit, a valve coupled to the tapping saddle to allow selective access through the tapping saddle and the opening to an interior of the conduit, a tube insertable into the conduit through the opening, and an inflatable plug coupled to the tube and insertable into the conduit with the tube. The inflatable plug is inflatable within the conduit to restrict fluid flow. The inflatable plug includes a first plate positioned on an exterior surface of the inflatable plug, a second plate positioned on an interior surface of the inflatable plug, and at least one fluid port extending through the first plate and the second plate to facilitate inflation and deflation of the inflatable plug.

Abstract: A plugging device (1) includes a bladder (2) which is adapted to expand or contract upon the ingress or egress of a fluid, such as air or other type of gas or liquid. Bladder (2) can be provided in a variety of sizes to suit a diameter or cross-sectional shape of pipe (20) to be repaired. The ingress or egress of air to/from bladder (2) is facilitated by adaptor (6). This allows a pump (40) to force air along adaptor (6) for ingress of air into bladder (2). At least part of adaptor (6) is made from a substantially heat resistant material able to withstand relatively high temperatures encountered during repair of pipe (20). Connector (5) and/or adaptor end connector (7) may be made of a heat insulating material.

Abstract: An apparatus for rapidly terminating of the flow of any fluid or particulate material through a conduit responsive to predefined dangerous conditions. A particular application will terminate fuel flow through a large fuel supply conduit in a racing vehicle responsive to a fire or accident or other dangerous condition. The apparatus includes a gas supply source that is opened responsive to actuation of the apparatus such that gas passes into a cylinder which moves to force a liquid to hydraulically expand an inflatable member which is operative to expand within the flow conduit to instantaneously terminate material flow therethrough.

Abstract: The invention comprises a device for expanding tubular members to a controlled diameter and its method of fabrication. The device includes an expandable bladder held in a convoluted form. After the device is inserted into a cylindrical tube to be evenly expanded, the bladder is expanded by hydraulic pressure to a controlled maximum diameter. It is then deflated so the device can then be moved to another location and reused. The bladder is formed from a flexible impervious material having integral reinforcing fibers. It is initially formed in a fully expanded configuration over a convoluted mandrel and a removable cylindrical shell. When the shell is removed vacuum or external pressure draws the bladder against the mandrel. The bladder is overmolded with a resilient cover to hold it in reduced form until pressurized. The bladder cover prevents the bladder from kinking during the expansion.

Abstract: A pipe plug includes two or more pivotally connected plugging heads that work in combination to double block and bleed a pipe. At least one of the plugging heads has an expandable sealing element that is in communication with an inflation source. The sealing element may be an inflatable sealing element or a compression packer sealing element. A passageway-sections of which may pass through the pivotal connection and into the plugging head-carries the inflation medium from the source to the sealing element. A bleed port passageway is also provided that passes through the plugging head. The leading plugging head may include a cleaning element for sweeping away debris ahead of the plug. The plugging heads may also include a skid plate that slideably engages the interior surface of the pipe to properly orient the plugging heads within the pipe.

Abstract: There is a need for people who handle hazardous materials to be able to effectively and efficiently block cesspits and/or pipes of various drainage systems in circumstances of for example, a chemical or liquid spill or a gas leak so as to prevent or limit flow of the same into for example, the water table. This problem is solved through the use of a man made fluid inlet or outlet passage, blocking assembly having an inflatable bladder operatively linked to a fluid communication element, one aspect of the element being adapted to receive a pressurised fluid supply wherein, when a pressurised fluid passes through the fluid communication element, the bladder is adapted to inflate to block the passage in a fluid type manner.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for emptying and filling a fluid container. A flow-actuated valve inside a fill tube regulates the flow through the fill tube. A cap containing the valve and a vent tube can be installed on a modified bottle used to supply water dispensers, thus enabling a user to continuously replenish the bottle from a remote supply. Alternatively, a cap containing the valve, a vent tube, and two fluid level sensors can be installed on a conventional bottle. A user is thus relieved of the burden of repetitive bottle changing, and is able to treat the water to his own specifications.