Pipes Or Tubes Patents (Class 264/36.16)
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Patent number: 10641429Abstract: A method of protecting a layered coating on a length of pipe for subsea use includes applying an edge finisher to the coating to encase an edge of the coating by fusing the edge finisher with the coating or by moulding the edge finisher at an edge of the coating. Where the coating and the edge finisher are of thermoplastics such as PP, fusing can be achieved by injection moulding the edge finisher or by welding a discrete edge finisher component to the edge of the coating. Mirror welding may be employed for this purpose, with a hot plate being interposed between the edge of the coating and the edge finisher.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2017Date of Patent: May 5, 2020Assignee: Acergy France SASInventor: Philippe Benoit Jacques Hoffmann
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Patent number: 9738798Abstract: A method of repairing leakage in pipelines comprising the steps of forming a first and second openings (14a, 14b) in the pipeline (10) upstream and downstream, respectively, of the leakage location, inserting through the first opening (14a) a first body (C1), filling the space arrear of the first body (C1) with a first viscose sealing material (M1), inserting through the first opening (14a) a second body (C2) arrear of the first viscose sealing material (M1) compressing the first sealing material by applying a pressure against the first and the second bodies (C1, C2) in opposite directions, causing the first and second bodies (C1, C2) and the compressed first sealing material (M1) to move in unison in the direction of the second opening (14b), and retrieving the first and second bodies (C1, C2). Preferably, the method is performed using three bodies (C1, C2, C3) and two sealing materials (M1, M2).Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2014Date of Patent: August 22, 2017Assignee: CURAPIPE SYSTEM LTD.Inventors: Samuel Perstnev, Reonald Oukhanov
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Patent number: 8985157Abstract: Provided is a restoration pipe pulling-in method which can easily determine whether pilling-in of a restoration pipe is possible wherein the restoration pipe has a diameter as much as large relative to a deteriorated drainage channel, and which can pulling a restoration pipe into a sewer pipe wherein the gap between the restoration pipe and the sewer pipe is shorter.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2013Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Kanaflex CorporationInventor: Shigeki Kanao
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Patent number: 8658071Abstract: A method for enabling a lining (14) to be applied to a pipe elbow or bend C comprises the steps of connecting a tie member (12) to an end of a flexible elongate mandrel (1), drawing the tie member through the elbow or bend so as to draw the mandrel therethrough and locate opposing ends of the mandrel adjacent to opposing respective ends of the elbow or bend, and securing the mandrel ends in relation to the respective ends of the elbow or bend. The mandrel can be adapted to the elbow or bend by locating the elbow or bend in a given orientation and deriving a profile S of the elbow or bend while in that orientation, removing the elbow or bend and then locating the mandrel in the given orientation, and adjusting the mandrel in relation to the profile of the elbow or bend to adapt it thereto.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2008Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Weir Vulco, S.A.Inventors: Ricardo Abarca Melo, Wilfredo San Martin Cisterna, Jaime Ramirez Toledo
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Patent number: 8486314Abstract: A method of internally restoring a pipe preferably includes the steps of isolating a leaking pipe from a system of pipes; drying an interior of a leaking pipe; measuring the airflow through the leak; cleaning the interior of the leaking pipe; pre-sealing a leak with a leak sealing media, measuring the leak flow rate after the pre-sealing; applying an internal protective coating process; and pressure testing the leaking pipe for leaks. The pipe restoration method preferably uses a control box, a media injection system, an air compressor and a coating dispensing system at an inlet of the leaking pipe. The pipe restoration method preferably uses a coating overflow receiver, a muffler and a dust collector at an exit of the leaking pipe. After the treatments, the leaking pipe becomes a restored pipe. The restored pipe is pressure tested for leaks at a working pressure rating of the pipe and reconnected to its piping system.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2012Date of Patent: July 16, 2013Inventors: Roy A. Terry, Ryan A. Terry, Michael T. Terry
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Patent number: 8365774Abstract: Around a damaged area of a jacket of a flexible tube, a top coat layer whose adhesion to a polymer layer is weak is peeled off with an adhesive tape. The damaged area and its immediate surrounding area are sanded, and then wiped with ethanol for cleaning. A main agent and a hardening agent are heated and defoamed while being mixed to prepare a repair material. The repair material is applied to the damaged area and the immediate surrounding area. A heat shrink tube is opened along slits in an end portion and covers the flexible tube. The heat shrink tube is shrunk with hot air, pressing the repair material and making it flush with a surface of the jacket. The flexible tube is heated with an electric hot plate to harden the repair material. Thereafter, the heat shrink tube is peeled off from the flexible tube.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2009Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Assignee: Fujifilm CorporationInventors: Kouichi Kamata, Atsushi Iwasaki, Daisuke Ayame, Nobuharu Takahashi
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Patent number: 8329074Abstract: A device for repairing a chimney preferably includes a rod effective for positioning and manipulating a camera and a plunger blade in a chimney; a camera attached to the lower portion of the rod in a manner such that rotation of the rod results in a corresponding rotation of the camera; and a plunger blade attached to the rod above the camera. The plunger blade is adapted to apply mortar to the sides of a chimney when the device is pulled upward in the chimney. The device may further include a camera-direction indicator attached to the rod above the plunger blade in a manner such that the camera-direction indicator is effective for indicating the direction of view of said camera even when the camera is not visible to the operator.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2009Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Merediths' Inc.Inventors: John E. Meredith, Thomas J. Urban
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Patent number: 8327899Abstract: A method for curing a resin contained in a liner of an underground pipe or passageway by use of a mobile magnetron module. The module navigates the length of the passageway of pipe via air pressure which also keeps the liner inflated. A winch attached to the module regulates the rate at which the module traverses the passageway or pipe. As the module makes its way through the passageway or pipe, the magnetron emits microwaves which cures the resin. Additionally, a thermal imaging camera can be utilized in the module or trailing the module to monitor the status of the curing of the resin in its entirety.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2011Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Inventor: Stephen V. Gearhart
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Patent number: 8272406Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of structural pipe lining for conduit rehabilitation and more specifically, to methods for rehabilitating conduits using structural liners. There is provided a method for rehabilitating a tubular conduit having an inner conduit space and at least one service connection tied into the tubular conduit. A portion of the at least one service connection protrudes into the inner conduit space. A liner is provided for covering the inner surface of the tubular conduit. The liner is made of a flexible material capable of being impregnated with a first curable adhesive resin and has a film made of a material impermeable to liquid bonded onto the inner surface of the liner. Also provided, is a flexible sealing member made of a second curable adhesive resin.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2009Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Fer-Pal Construction Ltd.Inventors: Shaun McKaigue, Robert Philpott
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Patent number: 8137599Abstract: Disclosed is a conduit expansion method, including: inserting a liner conduit formed from a polyvinyl chloride material at least partially within a host conduit; circulating fluid within an inner area of the liner conduit; and injecting fluid into the inner area of the liner conduit; wherein the liner conduit at least partially expands within the host conduit.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2008Date of Patent: March 20, 2012Assignee: Underground Solutions Technologies Group, Inc.Inventors: Mark A. Smith, Thomas Marti, Bryan St. Onge, Henri St. Onge
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Patent number: 8015998Abstract: A method for patching or sealing leaks in fluid systems and, in an exemplary application, to a method of patching or sealing leaks in sub-sea hydraulic control lines, leaks in sub-surface or sub-sea safety valves, O-ring leaks of any type, leaks in hydraulic line fittings, tubing thread connection leaks, casing thread connection leaks, glycol hydraulic system leaks, well-head and sub-sea well-head leaks, hanger leaks, and leaks in other types of related down-hole equipment. A pressure- or shear-fibrillatable substance, such as an aqueous fluoropolymer dispersion, a fluoropolymer fine powder, or any other fluoropolymer which is derived from a dispersion polymerization process, is added to a fluid system such as a hydraulic control line, and pressure is then applied to the system. In one embodiment, an aqueous dispersion of polytetrafluoroethylene (“PTFE”) particles having a particle size between 0.01 and 10 microns is used.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2005Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Harris Mud & Chemical, Inc.Inventor: Todd K Harris
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Patent number: 7866968Abstract: Installation of a flexible cured in place liner by inverting the liner utilizing an inversion sleeve assembly with an installation apparatus having at least one selectively operable rigid gland. The sleeve assembly includes a sleeve portion of an absorbable material secured in an apparatus with an inversion boot fitted at the distal end with an inlet port for inversion and/or curing fluid. The sleeve assembly and apparatus are particularly well suited for inverting with air and curing the liner with steam introduced through a perforated lay flat hose using an apparatus with two glands. The installation sleeve is the same dimension as the liner to be installed and is reusable thereby substantially reducing the set up time to install using the dual gland apparatus. Preferably, the flexible sleeve is a length of dry cured in place liner inverted on to itself to expose two impregnable surfaces. The sleeve may have a built in fluid inlet port for use with a dual gland apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2007Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: INA Acquisition Corp.Inventors: Franklin Thomas Driver, Neil T. Birchler, Kyle M. Costa, Richard C. Polivka, Weiping Wang
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Patent number: 7857932Abstract: A resin impregnated cured in place liner having an everted outer impermeable coating is provided. A roll of a continuous length of resin impregnable material is formed into a tube. An impermeable film or wrapping is formed into a tube about a tubular former, sealed and continuously everted about the inner tubular member travelling in an opposite direction so that the everted wrapping envelopes the inner tubular member. Alternatively, the inner tubular member may be passed into a stuffer tube having an impermeable tube thereon that is everted onto the moving tubular member to encapsulate the inner tubular member. The inner tubular member may be passed through an open resin impregnation tank to impregnate the impregnable material prior to everting the outer layer thereon. The inner tubular member may have an inner layer of impermeable material bonded thereto. It may be formed into a tube with the impermeable layer on the outside and continuously everted to place the impermeable layer on the inside of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2003Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: INA Acquisition Corp.Inventors: Franklin Thomas Driver, Weiping Wang
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Patent number: 7854449Abstract: The present invention is a composite laminated sheet material suitable for structures such as containment sumps. The laminated material comprises a fabric-backed thermoplastic layer upon which thermoset plastic is applied to the fabric side. The thermoplastic layer is formed by contacting a layer of fabric onto a layer of molten thermoplastic such that the liquid thermoplastic permeates a portion of the fabric layer to form a mechanical bond with the fabric layer when the thermoplastic layer cools and hardens. Thermoset plastic, such as fibreglass resin, is sprayed onto the fabric side of the thermoplastic layer to allow the liquid resin to permeate the fabric layer. Once the resin cures and hardens, the fabric layer is mechanically bonded to the cured thermoset plastic layer to effectively bond the thermoplastic layer to the thermoset plastic layer.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2006Date of Patent: December 21, 2010Assignee: ZCL Composites Inc.Inventors: Richard Raymond Scragg, Ronald James Fink, Etienne Vezina
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Publication number: 20100301505Abstract: An apparatus and a method for forming a lining in a pipe is disclosed. A pumpable material capable of curing is dispensed about an interior wall of a damaged section of pipe between an inflatable bladder and the pipe. The pumpable material is compressed between the bladder and the pipe and allowed to cure. An assembly for forming the lining in the pipe includes a feeding pump, a static mixer, a dispensing unit and a bladder. The pumpable material is preferably dispensed rearward of an inverting face of the bladder and the dispensing unit and the bladder move substantially in sync along the interior of the pipe.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2009Publication date: December 2, 2010Applicant: LMK ENTERPRISES, INC.Inventor: LARRY W. KIEST, JR.
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Publication number: 20100244330Abstract: A packaging and applicator device comprising: a body; a block of fluidizable substance that is stationary relative to the body while the substance is in the solid state, said block of substance projecting beyond the body to define at least one surface serving as an applicator surface; and a reshaper member for reshaping the applicator surface, said reshaper member being positionable on the body to co-operate therewith to define at least one cavity into which the substance can flow when fluidized by supplying heat, the substance retaining the shape of the cavity when it returns to the solid state after cooling.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 4, 2010Publication date: September 30, 2010Applicant: L'OREALInventor: Jean-Louis Gueret
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Patent number: 7803245Abstract: In a pipeline lining method, a tubular lining material impregnated with a thermosetting resin is inserted in an everted state into a pipeline and expanded and pressed against an inner peripheral surface of the pipeline. A vapor mist and water at normal temperature are sprayed toward the tubular lining material and mixed together to cool the vapor mist. The cooled vapor mist is directed onto the tubular lining material to cure the thermosetting resin impregnated in the tubular lining material to line the pipeline with the tubular lining material.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2005Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: Shonan Gosei-Jushi Seisakusho K.K.Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Koji Kaneta, Kenji Fujii
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Patent number: 7763201Abstract: A device and a method for the production of multi-layer concrete pipes, particularly two-layer concrete pipes. The device has a first stand, in which a first pressing head that can be driven is mounted, a turntable, on which several mold mantles standing vertically can be pivoted into a stand in cycles, and a first charging system for filling a first concrete mixture into one of the mold mantles. A second pressing head having an outside diameter that is smaller than that of the first pressing head, and a second charging system for filling a second concrete mixture into one of the mold mantles are provided. In this manner, the second concrete mixture can be filled into the mold mantle, by the second charging system and the mixture can be distributed and compacted before the concrete pipe is removed from the mold mantle.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2004Date of Patent: July 27, 2010Assignee: Schlosser-Pfeiffer GmbHInventor: Gunther Schiller
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Publication number: 20100180973Abstract: In an existing pipe rehabilitating method according to an embodiment, a profile strip (2) for lining an existing pipe (10) is shaped using a thermoplastic resin, joint portions (21) are provided at both end portions in a width direction of the profile strip, and the profile strip (2) is inserted into the existing pipe (10) and is helically wound in the existing pipe (10). The joint portions (21) of adjacent windings of the profile strip (2) are interlocked with each other, thereby forming a rehabilitating pipe (20). Also, the profile strip (2) of the rehabilitating pipe (20) is deformed by a heating step in which the profile strip (2) is subjected to a heating process by a heating means so as to conform a shape of a curved portion (13) of the existing pipe (10), thereby integrating the profile strip (2) with an inner peripheral surface of the curved portion (13) of the existing pipe (10).Type: ApplicationFiled: October 23, 2007Publication date: July 22, 2010Inventors: Akitoshi Ohira, Masato Horiuchi, Hiroshi Sugahara
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Patent number: 7754840Abstract: The present invention is directed to a bimodal polyethylene comprising ethylene derived units and units derived from at least one of a C4 to C12 olefin; wherein the polyethylene has a density of from 0.940 to 0.970 g/cm3; an I21/I2 of 80 or more; a residual Group 4 metal content of 2.0 ppm or less: a Mw/Mn of from 20 to 60; and wherein the polyethylene comprises a high molecular weight component and a low molecular weight component, the high molecular weight component present from 40 to 60 weight percent based on the total polyethylene, and wherein the bimodal polyethylene has a weight avenge molecular weight Mw of 180,000 a.m.u. or more.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2003Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Assignee: Univation Technologies, LLCInventors: Donald R. Loveday, David H. McConville, John F. Szul, Kersten Anne Erickson, Simon Mawson, Tae Hoon Kwack, Frederick J. Karol, David James Schreck
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Patent number: 7713374Abstract: A pipe lining material is inserted into a pipeline and expanded to press against an inner peripheral surface of the pipeline. Hot water from a first fluid source is sprayed onto the pipe lining material via a hose to cure the thermosetting resin impregnated therein and thereby cure the pipe lining material, with the sprayed hot water being accumulated in a bottom part of the pipe lining material. The hot water accumulated in the bottom part of the pipe lining material is delivered to a second fluid source separate and independent from the first fluid source, cooled in the second fluid source to provide cooling water, and supplied to the hose. The cooling water is sprayed onto the cured pipe lining material via the hose to cool the cured pipe lining material.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2007Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Shonan Gosei-Jushi Seisakusho K.K.Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Koji Kaneta, Kenji Fujii, Katsuyori Miura
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Patent number: 7670521Abstract: A method and apparatus for performing a manufacturing operation at a plurality of locations along the length of a previously fabricated flexible conduit. The apparatus comprises a driving mechanism, a manufacturing station, and a support device. The conduit is first fed through the manufacturing station. The manufacturing station then performs the manufacturing operation at a plurality of locations along the length of the conduit. The support device within the conduit is not attached to any other structure and provides structural support at the manufacturing station during the manufacturing operation and remains at a generally fixed axial and functional location while the conduit continues to move axially.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2006Date of Patent: March 2, 2010Assignee: Flow-Rite Controls, Ltd.Inventor: Daniel N. Campau
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Apparatus and method for repairing a damaged portion in a tubular member made of refractory material
Patent number: 7029254Abstract: There are provided a shaft adapted for introduction into a tubular member made of refractory material and an expander provided on a leading edge of the shaft. The expander has both ends provided with a repairing material container and a seat plate. With the repairing material container having monolithic refractory material loaded therein confronted to a damaged portion in an inner wall of the tubular member, the expander is expanded by a driving motor to push the repairing material container toward the damaged portion while pushing the seat plate in contact with a wall surface opposite to the damaged portion in behind. Thus, the monolithic refractory material is filled and deposited in the damaged portion under remote control.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2002Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Plibrico Japan Company Ltd.Inventors: Keisuke Gozu, Tomoya Tanaka, Katsumi Nonaka -
Patent number: 7018577Abstract: A method of forming a liner for a passage such as a sewer includes forming panels composing the liner using a neat resin of a first density and a polymer concrete of a second, higher density. The neat resin is inserted into a mold cavity before the polymer concrete and is displaced upwardly by the polymer concrete pour to impregnate a fiber layer disposed along the periphery of the mold cavity. Resulting panels preferably have an offset joint to increase the joint strength between upper and lower panels forming the liner.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: INA Acquisition CorporationInventors: Walter R. Bilgram, Lynn E. Osborn, James D. Caldwell, Jr.
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Patent number: 6890461Abstract: In a method of reinforcing an existing concrete electric pole having an annular side wall, an inner hollow portion provided therein and an opening portion formed to a position of the annular side wall to be penetrated therethrough, at least one of a predetermined amount of mortar, a predetermined amount of sand and a predetermined amount of gravel is injected into the inner hollow portion of the electric pole through the opening portion. A reinforcing member for reinforcing the electric pole is injected into the inner hollow portion of the electric pole through the opening portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2002Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: NTT Infrastructure Network CorporationInventors: Hiroyasu Minayoshi, Masato Ushiroyama, Hitoshi Shoji
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Patent number: 6884373Abstract: A method for securing a branch assembly to a “live” pipeline. An upper part of the assembly incorporating the branch is positioned on the pipeline over a containment ring located on the pipeline and within which is an annular seal surrounding an area from which the branch is to extend. A lower part of the assembly is positioned on the pipeline beneath the upper part and the two parts are secured together so that the seal is compressed and an annular space is left between the two parts and the external surface of the pipeline. Grout is injected into the annular space and cures to bond the two parts forming the branch assembly in position on the pipeline. The use of grout avoids having to use welding techniques on a “live” pipeline. A coupon can be cut out of the pipeline, via the access through the branch.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2000Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Lattice Intellectual Property LimitedInventors: Leigh Martin Johnson, Christopher Hughes, Dan Quoc Vu
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Patent number: 6796743Abstract: For the purpose of fastening cables to the inner wall of a non-accessible waste-water pipe, an internal liner has been developed, which is constructed from at least two layers, the first layer, which rests against the internal wall of the pipe when in the laid condition, having a profile or empty spaces for receiving cables, and a second layer, of envelope-like type, which carries the first layer.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: September 28, 2004Assignee: AlcatelInventors: Klaus Nothofer, Hans-Detlef Leppert, Wolfgang Teschner
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Publication number: 20040016467Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing a repair material for use in repairing an interface area between two intersecting conduits. According to one aspect of the invention, a mold is provided having similar dimensions to an interface area. The interface area is defined by a first conduit and a flange connecting the first conduit to a second conduit. A repair material is provided having a material structure, the material structure defined by an arrangement of fibers such that the material structure has similar dimensions to the interface area. The arrangement of fibers further allowing the repair material to be flexible and seamless. A resin is provided, the resin having a resin viscosity. An additive is provided, the additive is adapted to increase the resin viscosity. The additive is mixed with the resin to form a resin-additive mixture whereby the resin viscosity is increased after a time delay.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2003Publication date: January 29, 2004Inventors: Mark D. Blackmore, Mark T. Sloan, William M. Lepola
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Patent number: 6682668Abstract: A process for lining an existing pipeline or conduit with a flexible resin impregnated cured in place liner by pulling in the liner and inflating it with a reusable endless inflation bladder is provided. The liner includes a resin absorbent material in tubular form with an impermeable membrane forming an outer layer. The absorbent material is saturated with a thermoset resin and pulled into the existing conduit. A flexible inflation bladder maintained on a inflation bladder spool is everted into the collapse liner which is then forced against the interior surfaces of the existing conduit, allow to cure and the bladder removed and rewound on the spool. When the everting and curing fluid is hot water, the hot water is removed and stored for reuse as the inflation bladder is withdrawn.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2000Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Insituform (Netherlands) B.V.Inventors: Franklin T. Driver, Charles H. Nance, Richard C. Polivka
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Publication number: 20030219558Abstract: A device for restoring a necked-down end of a plastic core includes molding and curing stations and a core handling system having a carriage for sequentially positioning the core adjacent the stations. The molding stations are heated and cooled, respectively, by heating elements and a chilled coolant. A core handling system includes a core-supporting carriage slidably supported on first rails for engagement between the core and the stations. The first rails are slidably supported on perpendicularly oriented second rails to provide for sequential alignment of the carriage with the molding and curing stations. A control system includes motor drives controlled by a programmable logic controller having a processor. Sensors communicate signals to the processor representing the position of the carriage with respect to the upper rails and the position of the upper rails with respect to the lower rails for actuation and control of the motor drives.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventor: John Woody Johnson
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Patent number: 6641688Abstract: A method for providing a seal in an annular space between a rehabilitative pipe liner and a conduit wall is provided. Areas on the surface of a section of a conduit wall surrounding lateral connections are provided with an expandable sealing agent, preferably during an investigative and/or cleaning inspection of the conduit section and preferably without repeated withdrawal and insertion of equipment between the provision of the agent at successive lateral connections. The rehabilitative pipe liner is then installed in the conduit section and a curing agent or agents such as heat, visible light, ultraviolet light, chemical agents, sonic energy or other radiant energy means is applied to cure or form the rehabilitative pipe liner and to cause the expandable sealing agent to expand and fill at least a portion of the annular space that may exist between the rehabilitative pipe liner and the conduit wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2001Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Inventor: Stephen V. Gearhart
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Patent number: 6637092Abstract: A machine (200) for winding a strip of material (212) into a helical pipe wherein adjacent convolutions of the strip (212) are interlocked. The machine comprises: a frame (220) having circumferentially spaced supports in the form of rollers (266, 276, 278, 286, 288, 296 and 298) adapted to bear against the inner periphery of the pipe being wound, the outer peripheral surfaces of the rollers forming a helical path for the strip (212) and along which the strip (212) is directed when the machine (200) is in use; driving rollers (224) mounted to the frame (220) for driving the strip (212) around the outside of the rollers so as to follow the helical path and cause the adjacent edges the strip (212) to interlock; and drive means (226) mounted to the frame for driving the driving rollers (224). The driving rollers (224) and the drive means are located wholly inside of the path formed by the rollers and no part of the machine (200) engages the outer periphery of the pipe being wound.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2001Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Assignee: Rib Loc Australia Pty Ltd.Inventor: Stanley William Otto Menzel
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Patent number: 6613261Abstract: A method of forming a pipeline pig in two or more steps is provided. Selected disks and/or cups, of selected size and hardness, are first formed. These disks and/or cups may include scraper disks, seal disks, flower petal disks, and/or cups in various sizes and hardnesses, in any desired permutation of these characteristics. The preformed pig components are then arranged with a plurality of mold pieces placed between the various disks and/or cups and then a second molding step is performed. The pig components which are formed in the first step preferably include a large central hole through which polyurethane will flow in the second molding step to form the mandrel. The pig components also preferably include a plurality of smaller holes radially spaced around the large central hole. The smaller holes serve to form a mechanically robust coupling between the pre-formed pig components and the polyurethane mandrel.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Inventor: Kenneth M. Knapp
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Publication number: 20030136455Abstract: A block unit for repairing flow passage facilities is provided for permitting a desired repair operation. A method of repairing flow passage facilities using the block unit is also provided. The block unit includes an inner plate defining an inner surface, an outer plate disposed along a peripheral edge of the inner plate, and a plurality of reinforcing ribs for reinforcing the inner plate and the outer plate. The block units adjoining in a circumferential direction are joined together with bolts inserted through both circumferential end faces of each the block unit and nuts fitted on the bolts to form a short tube within a flow passage. The short tubes are connected in a longitudinal direction to form a continuous tubular assembly having an outer diameter smaller than an inner diameter of the flow passage. A grout-material is injected into a clearance space formed between the tubular assembly and the flow passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2002Publication date: July 24, 2003Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Yasuhiro Yokoshima
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Patent number: 6596121Abstract: A method for making a composite lined tube is disclosed, wherein the tube has end couplings on it. The method includes pressing a resin impregnated fiber preform progressively along an inner wall of the tube. In one embodiment, the method includes inserting an inflatable bladder into the tube. The bladder is adapted to inflate along a length thereof on application of increasing pressure to the interior of the bladder. The bladder has disposed on its exterior surface the fiber preform impregnated with resin which is adapted to fit within the tube. One end of the preform is secured to one end of the tube. The bladder is then inflated along its length by applying increasing pressure to the bladder. The preform is clamped to a shoulder of one of the couplings at another end of the tube, and the end of the preform is trimmed to conform to the shoulder. Pressure is maintained in the bladder while curing the resin. In one particular embodiment, the bladder is inflated from its center outwardly to its ends.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1999Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: Hydril CompanyInventor: Harris A. Reynolds, Jr.
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Publication number: 20030121558Abstract: An apparatus and method for coupling a tubular member to a preexisting structure. The tubular member is anchored to the preexisting structure and an expansion member is pulled through the tubular member to radially expand the tubular member.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 22, 2002Publication date: July 3, 2003Inventors: Robert Lance Cook, Richard Carl Haut, Lev Ring, Thomas Patrick Grant, Edwin Arnold Zwald, Andrei Gregory Filippov
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Patent number: 6572306Abstract: One or more electric and/or data transmitting cables are confined in an elongated strip-shaped body containing a hardenable resin or the like, and the body is placed against a portion of the internal surface of an underground sewage, water or other pipe. An expandible tubular liner is thereupon introduced into the pipe and is expanded to press the body against the pipe. The body is caused to set, by conveying a hot fluid through the liner and/or by electrically heating the cable or cables, and to adhere to the internal surface of the pipe. The liner can remain in the pipe and can be bonded to the strip-shaped body and/or to the remaining portion of the internal surface of the pipe. Alternatively, the liner is caused to collapse and is withdrawn from the pipe once the strip-shaped body is bonded to the internal surface of the pipe.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Inventor: Martin Prusak
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Apparatus and method for repairing a damaged portion in a tubular member made of refractory material
Publication number: 20030067087Abstract: There are provided a shaft adapted for introduction into a tubular member made of refractory material and an expander provided on a leading edge of the shaft. The expander has both ends provided with a repairing material container and a seat plate. With the repairing material container having monolithic refractory material loaded therein confronted to a damaged portion in an inner wall of the tubular member, the expander is expanded by a driving motor to push the repairing material container toward the damaged portion while pushing the seat plate in contact with a wall surface opposite to the damaged portion in behind. Thus, the monolithic refractory material is filled and deposited in the damaged portion under remote control.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2002Publication date: April 10, 2003Applicant: Pilbrico Japan Company Ltd.Inventors: Keisuke Gozu, Tomoya Tanaka, Katsumi Nonaka -
Patent number: 6494978Abstract: A method for protecting and for restoring structural strength and substance to a concrete, fluid containing or conducting structure deteriorated to the condition of removal of substance of the concrete by sulfuric acids and like corrosive material in contact therewith is described by positioning a relatively thin thermoplastic layer of polyvinyl chloride or polyethylene, injecting a substratum of epoxy foam, polyurethane foam, or a combination thereof between the thermoplastic layer and the deteriorated concrete, and welding the foam to the thermoplastic layer. The product of the process is described.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2000Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Inventor: Richard L. Bertram
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Patent number: 6482280Abstract: A pipe repair apparatus includes an outer carrier tube, an inner bladder tube within the carrier tube, and a repair sleeve within the bladder tube. The bladder tube and the carrier tube are formed by one unitary tube which is folded back upon itself. A wick extends from the repair sleeve to the rear end of the bladder tube and permits evacuation of gases from the bladder tube when the bladder tube is flattened by a vacuum during insertion of a curable resin into the bladder tube at its forward end. The bladder tube can be inverted out of the carrier tube so as to place the repair sleeve in contact with an area to be repaired within a sewer pipe. This method may also be used to repair the damaged joint between a lateral sewer line and a main sewer line.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2000Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Assignee: LMK EnterprisesInventors: Larry W. Kiest, Jr., Gary VanAmeyde
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Publication number: 20020163102Abstract: A machine and method for providing a folded liner for insertion into a pipe, comprises an upper section and a lower section. A flattened heated thermoplastic liner is fed downwardly through the upper section to the lower section, where it is redirected and fed substantially horizontally from the lower section. The flattened liner introduced to the upper section is broadly indented at one side of the liner and is then more acutely indented to provide loops disposed side-by-side in a substantially horizontal direction. The lower section reorients the loops so that they are stacked side-by-side in a substantially vertical direction. The liner is cooled as its leaves the lower section to maintain its cross-sectional configuration. The upper section is separable from the lower section, and portions of the upper and lower sections are displaceable and removable to facilitate insertion of the liner into the machine and removal of the machine from the liner.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2002Publication date: November 7, 2002Applicant: American Pipe & Plastics, Inc.Inventor: Mark Thompson
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Patent number: 6423258Abstract: A machine and method for providing a folded liner for insertion into a pipe, comprises an upper section and a lower section. A flattened heated thermoplastic liner is fed downwardly through the upper section to the lower section, where it is redirected and fed substantially horizontally from the lower section. The flattened liner introduced to the upper section is broadly indented at one side of the liner and is then more acutely indented to provide loops disposed side-by-side in a substantially horizontal direction. The lower section reorients the loops so that they are stacked side-by-side in a substantially vertical direction. The liner is cooled as its leaves the lower section to maintain its cross-sectional configuration. The upper section is separable from the lower section, and portions of the upper and lower sections are displaceable and removable to facilitate insertion of the liner into the machine and removal of the machine from the liner.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2000Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Assignee: American Pipe & Plastics, Inc.Inventor: Mark Thompson
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Patent number: 6382876Abstract: A method of repairing or reinforcing worn-out underground buried drainpipes by a resin transfer molding process using both flexible tubes and bagging films is disclosed. In the method of this invention, a reinforcement is primarily inserted into a desired position within a target worn-out drainpipe buried underground. The reinforcement consists of a fiber preform internally having a flexible tube, such as a silicon tube, axially extending along the central axis of the preform and wrapped with an adhesive-coated flexible film as a bagging film to provide protection from sewage or underground water. The flexible tube is, thereafter, expanded to bring the fiber preform into close contact with the interior surface of the target drainpipe. The opposite ends of the reinforcement are sealed with two lids. Thereafter, thermosetting resin is transferred into the fiber preform, thus allowing the fiber preform to be impregnated with the thermosetting resin.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2001Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Assignee: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and TechnologyInventors: Dai Gil Lee, Jae Wook Kwon, Woo Seok Chin, Ae Kwon Yoo
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Patent number: 6241925Abstract: A method of lining a channel can be provided which includes the steps of: installing at a work site a roll having wound thereon a rigid or semirigid plastic pipe shaped initially in the form of an approximately round tube and deformed from the initial form to a flat tubular form, paying off the pipe as softened by heating from the roll installed at the work site toward an inlet of the channel to be lined, and folding the paid-off flat pipe in two to a U shape at a position between the roll and the channel inlet. The U-shaped pipe is hardened by forced cooling from outside immediately after the folding step while being restricted in shape, then inserted into the channel while being thus hardened and thereafter restored to the initial form by being inflated with heat and pressure applied from inside, whereby a lining of improved quality can be formed with an improved work efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1999Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Assignees: Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd., Osaka Bosui Construction Co., Ltd.Inventors: Mitsutoshi Hayashi, Mitsunori Komori, Masato Koseki, Yuichi Banrai, Tomoyuki Minami, Seiji Mizukami, Yasuo Miyazaki, Akira Kamide, Hirohisa Tanimuro, Takeshi Uchida
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Patent number: 6228312Abstract: A pipe (4) is rehabilitated by means of a tubular liner (5) which is introduced into the pipe in a contracted form, expanded into contact with the pipe wall, and hardened to retain its form. The liner (5) comprises composite material formed by knitting, braiding or weaving tows of intermingled filaments of thermoplastic and reinforcing fiber, the liner being heated during application to the pipe in order to melt the thermoplastic. The composite material may be created as a sleeve. Alternatively, a sheet of the material may be calendered and rolled up into a tubular form, overlapping edge margins of the sheet being bonded together after expansion of the tube into contact with the pipe wall.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 1999Date of Patent: May 8, 2001Assignees: Severn Trent Water Limited, Anglian Water Services Limited, Yorkshire Water Services Limited, Euro-Projects (LTTC) LimitedInventor: Gerard Stephen Boyce
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Patent number: 6217688Abstract: A method of repairing a flanged pipe joint includes selecting a flexible sheet of material and mounting a tube through the selected material to form a passageway therethrough. One end of the mounted tube is positioned against a flanged pipe joint and the flexible sheet of material is wrapped around the pipe flange joint and attached thereto. A coating, such as an epoxy polymer, is coated over the wrapped flexible material extending over the flanged pipe joint and adjacent pipe, which coating is cured while any liquid leaking from the flanged pipe joint escapes through the tube. Once the coating is cured, the tube can be plugged by either removing the capped tube or injecting a material to seal the tube. The tube also has an end member shaped to fit over a flanged joint for positioning the pipe for drainage of material leaking from the flanged joint.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 1999Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Inventor: Phillip G. Landers