Pipes Or Tubes Patents (Class 264/36.16)
  • Patent number: 10641429
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Acergy France SAS
    Inventor: Philippe Benoit Jacques Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 9738798
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: CURAPIPE SYSTEM LTD.
    Inventors: Samuel Perstnev, Reonald Oukhanov
  • Patent number: 8985157
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Kanaflex Corporation
    Inventor: Shigeki Kanao
  • Patent number: 8658071
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Weir Vulco, S.A.
    Inventors: Ricardo Abarca Melo, Wilfredo San Martin Cisterna, Jaime Ramirez Toledo
  • Patent number: 8486314
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventors: Roy A. Terry, Ryan A. Terry, Michael T. Terry
  • Patent number: 8365774
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Fujifilm Corporation
    Inventors: Kouichi Kamata, Atsushi Iwasaki, Daisuke Ayame, Nobuharu Takahashi
  • Patent number: 8329074
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Merediths' Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Meredith, Thomas J. Urban
  • Patent number: 8327899
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Stephen V. Gearhart
  • Patent number: 8272406
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Fer-Pal Construction Ltd.
    Inventors: Shaun McKaigue, Robert Philpott
  • Patent number: 8137599
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Underground Solutions Technologies Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Smith, Thomas Marti, Bryan St. Onge, Henri St. Onge
  • Patent number: 8015998
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Harris Mud & Chemical, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd K Harris
  • Patent number: 7866968
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: INA Acquisition Corp.
    Inventors: Franklin Thomas Driver, Neil T. Birchler, Kyle M. Costa, Richard C. Polivka, Weiping Wang
  • Patent number: 7857932
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: INA Acquisition Corp.
    Inventors: Franklin Thomas Driver, Weiping Wang
  • Patent number: 7854449
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: ZCL Composites Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Raymond Scragg, Ronald James Fink, Etienne Vezina
  • Publication number: 20100301505
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Applicant: LMK ENTERPRISES, INC.
    Inventor: LARRY W. KIEST, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100244330
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: L'OREAL
    Inventor: Jean-Louis Gueret
  • Patent number: 7803245
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Shonan Gosei-Jushi Seisakusho K.K.
    Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Koji Kaneta, Kenji Fujii
  • Patent number: 7763201
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Schlosser-Pfeiffer GmbH
    Inventor: Gunther Schiller
  • Publication number: 20100180973
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Inventors: Akitoshi Ohira, Masato Horiuchi, Hiroshi Sugahara
  • Patent number: 7754840
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Univation Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Donald R. Loveday, David H. McConville, John F. Szul, Kersten Anne Erickson, Simon Mawson, Tae Hoon Kwack, Frederick J. Karol, David James Schreck
  • Patent number: 7713374
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Shonan Gosei-Jushi Seisakusho K.K.
    Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Koji Kaneta, Kenji Fujii, Katsuyori Miura
  • Patent number: 7670521
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Flow-Rite Controls, Ltd.
    Inventor: Daniel N. Campau
  • Patent number: 7029254
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Plibrico Japan Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Keisuke Gozu, Tomoya Tanaka, Katsumi Nonaka
  • Patent number: 7018577
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: INA Acquisition Corporation
    Inventors: Walter R. Bilgram, Lynn E. Osborn, James D. Caldwell, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6890461
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Assignee: NTT Infrastructure Network Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Minayoshi, Masato Ushiroyama, Hitoshi Shoji
  • Patent number: 6884373
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Lattice Intellectual Property Limited
    Inventors: Leigh Martin Johnson, Christopher Hughes, Dan Quoc Vu
  • Patent number: 6796743
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: Alcatel
    Inventors: Klaus Nothofer, Hans-Detlef Leppert, Wolfgang Teschner
  • Publication number: 20040016467
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Mark D. Blackmore, Mark T. Sloan, William M. Lepola
  • Patent number: 6682668
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Insituform (Netherlands) B.V.
    Inventors: Franklin T. Driver, Charles H. Nance, Richard C. Polivka
  • Publication number: 20030219558
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Publication date: November 27, 2003
    Inventor: John Woody Johnson
  • Patent number: 6641688
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Stephen V. Gearhart
  • Patent number: 6637092
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Rib Loc Australia Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Stanley William Otto Menzel
  • Patent number: 6613261
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth M. Knapp
  • Publication number: 20030136455
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Takao Kamiyama, Yasuhiro Yokoshima
  • Patent number: 6596121
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2003
    Assignee: Hydril Company
    Inventor: Harris A. Reynolds, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20030121558
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventors: Robert Lance Cook, Richard Carl Haut, Lev Ring, Thomas Patrick Grant, Edwin Arnold Zwald, Andrei Gregory Filippov
  • Patent number: 6572306
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Inventor: Martin Prusak
  • Publication number: 20030067087
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Applicant: Pilbrico Japan Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Keisuke Gozu, Tomoya Tanaka, Katsumi Nonaka
  • Patent number: 6494978
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Inventor: Richard L. Bertram
  • Patent number: 6482280
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: LMK Enterprises
    Inventors: Larry W. Kiest, Jr., Gary VanAmeyde
  • Publication number: 20020163102
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Applicant: American Pipe & Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Thompson
  • Patent number: 6423258
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: American Pipe & Plastics, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Thompson
  • Patent number: 6382876
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Dai Gil Lee, Jae Wook Kwon, Woo Seok Chin, Ae Kwon Yoo
  • Patent number: 6241925
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Assignees: 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
  • Patent number: 6228312
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignees: Severn Trent Water Limited, Anglian Water Services Limited, Yorkshire Water Services Limited, Euro-Projects (LTTC) Limited
    Inventor: Gerard Stephen Boyce
  • Patent number: 6217688
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Inventor: Phillip G. Landers