Hollow, Fluid-filled, Or Inflatable Patents (Class 277/605)
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Patent number: 8210542Abstract: One or more elastomeric multifunction rings augment a plunger packing assembly within a plunger pump packing box. Each such ring comprises a totally-enclosed circumferential tubular cavity filled with a fluid medium which transmits hydraulic pressure throughout the tubular cavity. Longitudinal ring compression secondary to pumped fluid pressure acts through the compliance of each ring to increase tubular cavity hydraulic pressure, resulting in radial ring expansion. Ring expansion is both inward toward a plunger and, simultaneously, outward toward its packing box. Inward expansion tends to seal the extrusion gap, while outward expansion improves heat transfer via the ring from plunger to packing box. Periodic reduction of pumped fluid pressure tends to reverse radial ring expansion. Thus, relatively more effective sealing and heat transfer functions occur as a pump's pressure stroke increases pumped fluid pressure.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2011Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Inventor: Dennis W. Gilstad
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Patent number: 8186685Abstract: An annular sealing element to seal between metal surfaces for use in flanges, joints, packers and the like, located in oil and gas exploration and production equipment. The sealing element has inner and outer metal deformable surfaces joined at ends, defining an interior volume which is entirely filled with a plastic deformable material. The surfaces are arranged such that on compression of the element from the ends, the element will deform in a controlled manner on a cantilever principle. The volume of filler and the interior volume remain substantially equal during compression so that delamination does not occur. Thus the sealing element provides a seal combining the flexibility of elastomer seals with the integrity of a metal to metal seal.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2006Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Caledyne LimitedInventors: David Martin, Ewan Sinclair
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Publication number: 20120126492Abstract: A pressure activated seal includes a main wall, side walls connected to the ends of the main wall, and flexible flaps connected to the side walls. The main wall, side walls, and flexible flaps define a main chamber adapted to receive fluid pressure for activating the pressure activated seal to form a seal between opposing adjacent surfaces. The pressure activated seal can be placed between concentric tubes or between adjacent plates, with one of the tubes or plates including one or more orifices leading to the main chamber to allow fluid pressure to activate the pressure activated seal to form a seal between the opposing adjacent surfaces of the tubes or plates.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2010Publication date: May 24, 2012Inventor: Paul M. Cordua
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Patent number: 8161999Abstract: A swing valve includes a body having an inner surface defining an opening, a plate positioned substantially within the opening of the body, and a pivot rod coupled to the body and the plate. The pivot rod defines a pivot axis. The plate is pivotable about the pivot axis relative to the body between an open position and a closed position. The swing valve also includes a locking mechanism coupled to the plate. The locking mechanism includes a member that is movable relative to the plate between a first position, in which the locking mechanism engages the body to lock the plate in the closed position, and a second position, in which the locking mechanism disengages the body to allow movement of the plate relative to the body.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2009Date of Patent: April 24, 2012Assignee: Petersen Products Co., LLCInventor: Philip L. Lundman
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Publication number: 20120086174Abstract: A system is provided that includes a fluid-tight tube, which for insertion can be introduced into the area of a gap to be sealed between two pipes of the pipeline system to be sealed. The tube is provided with a feed element for introducing a fluid, with whose aid the tube is filled and thereby increased in its volume. The feed element contains a valve, which facilitates the introduction of the fluid and at the same time prevents the outward flow via the feed element.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Inventors: Hans Bohnet, Jens Eitel
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Patent number: 8123195Abstract: A pressure control butterfly valve includes a valve disc rotatable in a vertical direction relative to a flow passage in a body, a seat ring reciprocating in a direction of the flow passage to allow a valve seat seal part to abut on and separate from the valve disc, and a valve opening/closing mechanism provided with an airflow path to which air is supplied in a direction of separating the seat ring from the valve disc and with a spring for biasing the seat ring toward the valve disc. The valve opening/closing mechanism is for nonslidably rotating the valve disc from which the seat ring has been separated by supply of air to the airflow path and for allowing the seat ring to abut on and separate from the valve disc by means of the supply of air to the airflow path and the biasing force of the spring when the valve disc has been rotated to a valve-closed state, thereby controlling pressure in the flow passage.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2008Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Assignee: Kitz SCT CorporationInventor: Toshiaki Iwabuchi
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Publication number: 20120025471Abstract: The present disclosure pertains to a self adjusting gasket to prevent leakage at a joint between an associated first pipe and an associated second pipe including a wedge shaped body made of a generally compressible, leak proof material. The wedge shaped body having a profile that includes a tapered front portion, a planar rear portion, a first contact surface, an inclined second contact surface, including a first fin having a trailing edge oriented generally normal to the first contact surface and a second fin spaced from the first fin. A generally continuous annular cavity is located in the wedge shaped body wherein the cavity is not symmetrically shaped and a fluid disposed in the cavity.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2011Publication date: February 2, 2012Inventors: William C. Andrick, Ronald M. Mayfield, James A. Westhoff
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Publication number: 20110266754Abstract: A pipe coupling seal including a cylindrical elastomeric seal (10) including annular pad portions (14, 16) axially spaced apart from one another and extending from a bridge portion (18), each of the pad portions (14, 16) being thicker than the bridge portion (18) and adapted to seal against an outer diameter of a pipe, wherein at least one of the pad portions (14, 16) includes a removable section that includes a continuously enclosed annular hollow void (34).Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2010Publication date: November 3, 2011Inventors: Eliezer Krausz, Avi Chiproot
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Publication number: 20110241342Abstract: The invention provides a faster, safer, more reliable and cost-effective method to permanently or temporarily repair leaking in-service pipes than welding and other devices and methods currently used to repair leaking pipes. The interlocking pipe clamp and internal circumferential self-pressurizing seal, installed in a recessed seal groove within the clamp housing, embodies a unidirectional fluid orifice leading to an internal pressure responsive chamber whereby trapped fluids inside the chamber expand outwardly under pressure to force the external sealing surface of several pliable, multi-combed and conjoined fingers to form a series of redundant seals against the leaking pipe with increasingly greater force to prevent the escape of fluids from the pipe and to prevent seal dislodgement from the pipe repair clamp. The seal material is composed of resilient synthetic and natural materials which are corrosion and fire resistant and color coded for specific fluid repair applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2010Publication date: October 6, 2011Inventors: Michael J. Skellern, Keith Wyness, Richard Ollerhead
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Publication number: 20110156362Abstract: This self-pressurizing seal invention embodies resilient, non-corrosive and fire resistant construction with an internal pressure responsive chamber whereby fluids entering such chamber through a unidirectional fluid orifice are trapped in the internal chamber and whereby the resulting pressure differential causes outward expansion from the internal chamber to external sealing surface of multiple, pliable and conjoined ridges to form a series of redundant circumferential seals against the axial pipe surface with corresponding force to prevent the outward flow of fluids from the pipe juncture in a pipe coupling or valve.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2009Publication date: June 30, 2011Inventors: Michael Skellern, Keith Wyness, Richard Ollerhead
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Patent number: 7891671Abstract: A panel assembly of the kind found in the air intake of a gas turbine engine or a fan duct is designed to be demountable for maintenance purposes. Consequently there exists between the panels a gap to be sealed. Thus, the assembly has a deformable seal for such a purpose and has an elongated, hollow resilient member mounted on a flange at the edge of one of the panels and arranged to be pressed against a flange at the confronting edge of the adjacent panel. The flanges are shaped such that the hollow member when pressed between the flanges effectively seals the gap between the panels and a portion of the seal member lies flush between the panel edges.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2007Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Rolls-Royce plcInventor: Peter Allford
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Publication number: 20100308578Abstract: This invention relates to pipe coupling with multi-combed, self-pressurizing internal seals and an integral pipe fastening system to join and seal pipes of all sizes, fluid contents and line pressures. The invention embodies a coupling body, two pressure responsive seals installed in recessed seal grooves located at opposite outside edges of the pipe coupling body, and seal body consisting of a unidirectional fluid inlet and internal pressure responsive chamber and an external sealing surface comprised of several resilient, multi-combed and conjoined lips and fluid pockets which form a series of redundant seals around the outside axial surface of pipes joined within the coupling. Fluid escaping from the pipe juncture enters the internal pressure responsive chamber through the unidirectional orifice wherein trapped fluids expand the pliable external multi-combed seal surface against the axial surface of each pipe with corresponding force to prevent the outward flow of fluid from the pipe coupling.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2010Publication date: December 9, 2010Inventors: Michael J Skellern, Keith Wyness, Richard Ollerhead
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Publication number: 20100264605Abstract: A sealing device (1) for a tubing arrangement (2), preferably for use in an offshore facility, such as an offshore wind turbine or an oil rig. The tubing arrangement (2) has a cable (3) or an inner tube arranged in an interior part thereof. The sealing device (1) comprises a substantially rigid housing (4) and a flexible plug part (5) arranged in an interior part of the housing (4). The housing (4) is mountable on or forms part of the tubing arrangement (2) in such a manner that the interior part of the housing (4) communicates with the interior part of the tubing arrangement (2). The flexible plug part (5) comprises an inlet opening connectable to a grout source. When grout material (7) is supplied to the flexible plug part (5), the flexible plug part (5) expands, thereby providing sealing between the housing (4) and a cable (3) or inner tube arranged in the interior of the tubing arrangement (2).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2007Publication date: October 21, 2010Applicant: VESTAS WIND SYSTEMS A/SInventor: Anders Søe-Jensen
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Patent number: 7740080Abstract: A seal for use in sealing on a wellhead assembly, where the seal is pressure energized and comprises an annular element having an inverted portion on its outer portion along its length. The seal may further include upper and lower ring members sandwiching the element between the ring members. The seal is formable by adjoining the open surfaces of two “W” shaped annular seals along their edges thereby forming an element responsive to pressure.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2007Date of Patent: June 22, 2010Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventor: Stephen P. Fenton
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Publication number: 20100148452Abstract: A sealing assembly for a liquid conveying system includes a first structure defining an aperture, such as a pipe receiving aperture. A second structure, such as a pipe is received in the aperture. And an annular seal is disposed within the aperture for radially sealing between the first structure and the second structure. The seal includes an outer radial portion embedded in the first structure and an inner radial portion in sealing engagement with the second structure. The inner radial portion defines an internal cavity containing a substantially incompressible fluid or gel that is movable within the cavity to provide a dynamic seal with the second structure.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 14, 2009Publication date: June 17, 2010Inventors: James A. Westhoff, James A. Kelly, Christopher Hangdago
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Patent number: 7681594Abstract: A control valve having a shiftable valve plug includes a valve body having an inlet, an outlet, a flow passage extending between the inlet and the outlet, and defining a longitudinal axis, a generally cylindrical valve cage disposed within the valve body and sized to receive the valve plug, with the valve cage including at least one aperture comprising at least a portion of the flow passage, a portion of the valve cage disposed adjacent a portion of the valve body at an interface. A seal having a C-shaped cross section is provided and is disposed at the interface between the valve cage and the valve body, and a retainer is disposed adjacent the interface and positioned to secure the seal against movement along the longitudinal axis.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2008Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Inventors: James L. Gossett, William V. Fitzgerald, Raymond W. Micheel, Donald Sanders, Donald R. Bush, Wade J. Helfer
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Patent number: 7562879Abstract: A seal mechanism for a transverse crop conveying auger in a header that incorporates a flexible-sealant-filled labyrinth at each end of a tube-like auger central core that allows rotation of the auger without allowing entry of dirt, debris, or other contaminants into the bearing housing area positioned inside of the tube-like central core of the auger.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2008Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Assignee: CNH America LLCInventors: Edward A. Blakeslee, Wayne D. Thaxton
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Patent number: 7260942Abstract: The invention relates to methods of sealing of pipeline joints operating with cryogenic liquids. The method is realized with the use of a tape of a porous structuring material that may be dry or impregnated with a liquid having a freezing point above the temperature of a cryogenic fluid in the pipeline. The material of the tape and the impregnating liquid are inert to the cryogenic fluid and to the environment. The method consists in that prior to filling the pipeline with the cryogenic fluid, the tape is tightly wrapped around the joint or an area that is at risk of a damage or puncture, the wrapping is then wetted by pouring on it the same liquid that was used for impregnation, and then the cryogenic fluid is fed to the pipeline for freezing the liquid that is contained in the tape for forming a tight frozen seal around the joint.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2005Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Inventors: Alexander Shteinberg, Alexander Berlin
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Patent number: 7086608Abstract: A seal arrangement for a rotatable shaft that is secured at one end thereof in a housing, and that mounts a water distribution plate on an opposite end thereof, the shaft seal comprising a flexible annular member having a radially inner portion including at least one tapered lip extending in one direction along the shaft and adapted to engage the shaft, and a radially outer portion seated on a support in the housing; and at least one retainer overlying the seal and holding the seal in position on the support, the at least one retainer having a radially inner portion that substantially encloses the at least one tapered lip.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2005Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Assignee: Nelson Irrigation CorporationInventor: Lee A. Perkins
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Patent number: 6948715Abstract: A seal assembly with an accumulator ring for protecting a seal from explosive decompression is disclosed. The accumulator ring and the seal are contained within a seal gland. The seal is made of a material that is susceptible to damage from explosive decompression. When exposed to a high-pressure fluid environment, the accumulator ring fills with a quantity of high-pressure fluid, either by permeation if it is solid or by permeation and/or vents and/or channels leading to a void if it is hollow. During an explosive decompression event, the accumulator ring expands to fill the remaining volume of the seal gland. Then, the accumulator ring exerts an axial compressive or supporting force on the seal for a sufficient amount of time to allow the seal to expel fluid contained in it and minimize the effects of explosive decompression thereto.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2002Date of Patent: September 27, 2005Assignee: Cooper Cameron CorporationInventors: William M. Taylor, Gerald S. Baker, Larry E. McDonald
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Patent number: 6921090Abstract: An improved diaphragm for use with a gasket to prevent leakage of a pressurized fluid. The diaphragm has an internal groove which uses strong spring back and the pressure of the fluid to increase the gasket seating load, thereby providing a self-energizing seal which can accommodate changes in gasket load due to changes in fluid pressure. In one embodiment, a ring is shrink-fit or press-fit about the outer side edge of the diaphragm which improves strength and reduces the material cost.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2002Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Babcock & Wilcox Canada Ltd.Inventor: Nansheng Sun
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Patent number: 6918986Abstract: Method and apparatus for trimming plastic frames. Frames are joined to bring heated, soften ends into engagement, causing some softened material to be forced out from between the engaged portions, forming a flashing. This flashing is trimmed by a pair of trimming blades moved along associated guide members. The trimming assembly is mounted directly upon clamps holding the frame members, enabling performance of the trimming operation and eliminating the need for moving to a separate trimming/finishing station remote from the joining equipment. Excellent cutting action is assured by locking the guide blocks preparatory to a trimming operation. Various combinations and sequences of repetitive trimming operations may be selected whereby the cooperating blades are moved in selective cooperating directions to provide a trimming operation which avoids the need for further finishing. Trimming may also be performed simultaneously on multiple stacks of members being joined using the above technique.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2002Date of Patent: July 19, 2005Inventor: John P. Cupp
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Patent number: 6843516Abstract: A coupler for a low pressure piping system has a hollow metal tube terminating in a pair of end portions defining open ends for slidably receiving and joining together sections of other metal tubes in a substantially air tight relationship. Slots are formed in at least one of the end portions to aid in the crimping of the hollow metal tube by an annular clamp. A radial flange is formed adjacent the end portion and receives an annular seal therein. A stop for limiting the insertion of a tube section into the end of the hollow metal tube is formed on the inside of the coupler adjacent the radial flange opposite the slots. The annular clamp encircles the slots and is tightened to clamp the end portions to form metal to metal contact between the metal tubes and to form a seal between the annular seal and both metal tubes.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2002Date of Patent: January 18, 2005Assignee: H-P Products, Inc.Inventors: John P. Bishop, Gregory A. Calderone, Leland J. Dick, James F. Smith
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Patent number: 6827354Abstract: A sealing system on a first structural element having a first through-opening, including a first closing flap rotatable about an axis for closing the first through-opening. The sealing system can be coupled to a second structural element. The first closing flap is provided with a first dynamic seal on the radial outer circumference thereof. An elastic seal is provided on the wall of the first through-opening and adjacent the first dynamic seal. The inner diameter of the elastic seal is smaller in the non-operated state than the outer diameter of the first closing flap. The first structural element is provided with a second closing flap which essentially matches the first closing flap and can be swivelled together with the first closing flap. The dynamic seal can be inflated radially towards the outside by means of inner pressure when the first closing flap is in the closing position and in such a way that the elastic seal is at least partially and radially displaced towards the outside.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 7, 2004Assignee: Glatt Systemtechnik GmbHInventors: Hans-Dieter Cornelius, Heinz Pritzke
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Publication number: 20040188954Abstract: Disclosed herein is an inflatable element which includes a base pipe, a screen disposed at the base pipe and an expandable material disposed radially outwardly of the base pipe and the screen. Further disclosed herein is an annular seal system wherein the system uses a particle laden fluid and pump for this fluid. The system pumps the fluid into an expandable element. Further disclosed herein is a method of creating a wellbore seal which includes pumping a solid laden fluid to an expandable element to pressurize and expand that element. Dehydrating the solid laden fluid to leave substantially a solid constituent of the solid laden fluid in the expandable element. Further disclosed herein is an expandable element that includes an expandable material which is permeable to a fluid constituent of a solid laden fluid delivered thereto while being impermeable to a solid constituent of the solid laden fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2004Publication date: September 30, 2004Inventors: Michael J. Naquin, Edward T. Wood
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Publication number: 20040124589Abstract: A seal device is constituted of a plurality of seal tubes. After a connected-tube body having base members disposed at a fore end and a rear end is inserted into a fluid passage such as a tubular member, the seal tubes are expanded by injecting gaseous nitrogen into each of the seal tubes. The intermediate portions of the seal tubes along a longitudinal direction are press-fitted to the inner surface of the fluid passage over the entire circumference thereof, whereby the fluid passage is sealed. Since the connected-tube body is easily bent in the vicinity of a connecting base member between the tubes, the connected-tube body can be easily curved along the fluid passage, thus facilitating an operation for inserting the connected-tube body into the fluid passage and also enhancing a sealing property with respect to the fluid passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2003Publication date: July 1, 2004Applicant: BRIDGESTONE CORPORATIONInventors: Giichi Onuki, Hirohito Nishimura
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Patent number: 6719302Abstract: A gasket for a pipe joint includes an annular gasket body which is symmetrical around an axial centerline and is therefore insensitive to axial orientation. The gasket is formed of a resilient material and includes a base adapted to sealingly engage an annular groove formed in one of the pipe segments to be joined. First and second protrusions run along the length of the gasket body and extend radially therefrom. The first and second projections are spaced apart symmetrically about the centerline. An annular bore, bisected by the center line, extends within the interior of the gasket body, and comprises a central region bridging first and second transversely spaced apart lobes. It is particularly suited for sealing an annular space in a bell-and-spigot pipe joint and provides an increased surface contact area to compensate for defects in the sealing surfaces of the pipes.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2001Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: Vertex, Inc.Inventor: William C. Andrick
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Patent number: 6708986Abstract: This invention relates to a device a metod for ductchs sealing composed by a sealed bag, with no valve and or accesses, divided by a separator device wich can be un-welded before the application, containing separated chemical substances able to react and generate gas or any other action able to generate an inner pressure into the bag.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2002Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: Megarad SrlInventors: Giuseppe Natale, Xinsheng Bian
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Patent number: 6581938Abstract: A seal apparatus including an elongated body formed of a resilient expandable material defining an interior chamber and having a longitudinal axis. The elongated body is capable of being rolled up on itself by rolling one of the first and second ends of the elongated body in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis. At least one stem is attached to the elongated body and is in fluid communication with the interior chamber.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2001Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: TDM Industries, Inc.Inventor: Timothy D. McKenrick
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Patent number: 6572118Abstract: A sealing member for sealing a joint between a pipe and a wall defining an opening is provided. The sealing member has an annular base, a projection, and preferably first and second annular flanges. The annular base has a bottom and first and second sidewalls. The projection is attached to the base for anchoring the sealing member within the wall. In some embodiments it extends radially outwardly from the base. The first and second annular flanges extend from opposite sidewalls of the base. The first and second flanges each have a top and a bottom surface. The top surfaces of each can have an annular depressed portion, and each of the bottom surfaces can have a plurality of grooves formed therein. Preferably, the base includes at least one cavity extending completely around the circumference of the sealing member.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.Inventors: Fouad M. Deeb, Michael R. Miller, John M. Kurdziel, James W. Skinner, Ronald W. Neuhaus
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Patent number: 6550776Abstract: A vacuum packing configuration and installation for use therewith, has a first part and a second part. The first part includes a hydraulically or pneumatically expandable, medium-tight volume adapted to be acted upon by an hydraulic or pneumatic medium, with a wall facing the second part and forming sealing faces fastened on the first part. The wall is a resilient metal diaphragm.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2000Date of Patent: April 22, 2003Inventor: Roman Schertler
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Publication number: 20030019163Abstract: An integrated connection for a manhole having a wall opening defining a peripheral surface and a ring shaped elastomeric body cast in place on the peripheral surface. The elastomeric body includes a foot region cast within the wall thickness of the manhole and connected to a leg region. The leg region terminates in a primary sealing surface. A reinforcing element passes through the ring shaped elastomeric body at one circumferential location which, when viewed in cross section, appears below the peripheral surface of the wall opening once the gasket is cast in place.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2001Publication date: January 30, 2003Inventor: Claudio Dittel
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Patent number: 6481927Abstract: An assembly and method of joining a pipe with a catch basin, the catch basin having an apertured side wall, the assembly and method including providing an elastomeric ring having an annular hollow expansion space, a foam injection port, a flow checking inflation valve for resesting fluid back flow within the foam injection port, and having a slide stop extending outwardly from the elastomeric ring; inserting the elastomeric ring into the catch basin's aperture; inserting an end of the pipe through the elastomeric ring; and injecting a closed cell resilient foam through the fluid injection port for expansion within the expansion space, the expansion driving the ring's annular inner and outer surfaces inwardly and outwardly, forming a seal spanning between the pipe and the catch basin.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2001Date of Patent: November 19, 2002Inventor: Lester Kent Rhodes
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Patent number: 6439580Abstract: The invention relates to a sealing element (1) with inflatable bellows (10) for sealing piping. Said sealing element can be e.g. cylindrical in shape and said bellows (10) can be provided with two recesses (14a, 14b) containing a gel (11). When the bellows are inflated, the gel (11) encompasses e.g. uneven areas on the inner wall of the piper or cables in the pipe in such a way as to provide a seal.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2000Date of Patent: August 27, 2002Assignees: Ka-Te System AGInventors: Reinhard Hecht, Karl Manstorfer
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Patent number: 6402155Abstract: A sealing grommet is provided that includes a grommet body with a sealant reservoir and a sealant drain portion. The grommet body has an outer peripheral wall, a panel engagement recess formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall, and an inner peripheral wall extending inwardly of the outer peripheral wall and defining a wire harness insertion aperture inwardly thereof. The sealant reservoir is provided between the inner and outer peripheral walls, and is configured to temporarily store a sealant therein. The sealant drain portion is provided on the inner peripheral wall, and is configured to open upon deformation of the grommet body, thereby permitting the sealant to drain into the wire harness insertion aperture from the reservoir. With the above construction, the sealant can easily permeate between wires of the wire harness provided within the wire harness insertion aperture.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2001Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.Inventor: Tsutomu Sakata
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Patent number: 6383610Abstract: A partition for forming a barrier in a channel has a molded resin-based plate and a plurality of thermally expandable pellets attached to one side of the plate. The partition is secured in place in the channel by mounting brackets. As heat is applied, a blowing agent in the pellets is activated and the pellets expand to many times their original volume. The resultant foam seals the gap between the plate and the surrounding structure and further secures the plate in place. The partition is particularly useful in forming a sound/water/air barrier in an automotive cavity.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2000Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Assignee: L&L Products, Inc.Inventors: William Barz, Thomas L. Coon, Michael Czaplicki
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Patent number: 6354596Abstract: A seal cap (10) for use in sealing an end (20) of a tendon (14) anchored to an anchor plate (12). The seal cap (10) includes a receptacle (32) for holding therein a sealing agent (37). The seal cap (10) further includes a push nut (34) that grips to the tendon end (20) when forced thereon. A foam washer (35) is held in the front part of the seal cap (10). When the seal cap (10) is forced, such as by hammering, on the end (20) of the tendon (14), the sealant is displaced onto the tendon (14), and the foam washer (35) is squeezed against the anchor plate (12). A high quality moisture seal is formed.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2000Date of Patent: March 12, 2002Inventor: Alan F. Rodriguez
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Patent number: 6343796Abstract: A gasket arrangement for sealing between first and second components includes a tube through the material of the gasket for transferring fluid through the gasket. The first and second components may be, for example, a transmission case and transmission fluid pan.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 1999Date of Patent: February 5, 2002Assignee: Dana CorporationInventors: Brian Thomas Lee, Edward Allen Covington
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Patent number: 6328310Abstract: A method of preventing water leakage which comprises the steps of interposing a waterproof seal which consists of a hollow, water-absorbing, swelling rubber piece covered with a fabric tube in a clearance between the ends of pipes or planks to be joined together, injecting air into the hollow of the rubber piece and thereby block off the clearance and obtain a contacting surface pressure greater than a leakproof pressure just needed, and thereafter allowing the water-absorbing, swelling rubber piece to swell with water. The waterproof seal may have an inlet valve through which air is forced into the hollow, or the seal may be pierced through with a hollow needle from the outside to inject air into the hollow.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2000Date of Patent: December 11, 2001Assignee: Acacia Kakou Co., Ltd.Inventor: Taisuke Chikaraishi
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Patent number: 6264207Abstract: A seal using a seal body (1) which is subdivided in a latticework-like fashion into tensile struts (6) and compressive struts (7), forming cavities (8), and has an introduction portion (4) and can thus be used as a primary seal. The seal body (1) can be part of a seal arrangement (55) which includes a test and/or post-sealing space (56, 56a). In the case of pipe runs, an inner access line (60) or an outer access line (70) can be provided in order to test the sealing integrity of the seal and possibly to effect a post-sealing operation for leak-remedy purposes.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 1998Date of Patent: July 24, 2001Inventor: Karl Heinz Krestel
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Patent number: 6250646Abstract: A high pressure-high temperature gasket for high pressure-high temperature pipe is disclosed. The high pressure-high temperature gasket comprises a hollow annular member defining an interior tunnel. The interior tunnel is filled with a stuffing to enhance the axial resilience of the annular member such that the high pressure-high temperature gasket can seal the joint between two high pressure-high temperature pipes, and be reused so as to decrease the coat of using the gasket.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 1999Date of Patent: June 26, 2001Inventor: Chye-Tao Chang
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Patent number: 6199870Abstract: A seal for a shut-off device moved in a rectilinear manner, which is switched from a closed to an open position and vice versa so as to shut off material flows. The seal is formed of metallic components which define a pressure chamber to which external pressure can be applied to achieve seal tightness. Employing only metallic components makes it possible to use the seal in a wide temperature range and under conditions of exceptional wear caused by either frequent actuation or the composition of the flowing medium. The sealing system includes a shut-off device (1) against which a movable seat (5) forms a seal. The seat is connected to the tubular casing (2) in a pressure tight manner, and the casing in turn is connected to a flange (3). The assembly is connected to a housing (8) by a flange (6) and is sealed by seal (7). Membranes (9, 10) and support plate (14) form a pressure chamber (11) to which pressure Ps is applied through connecting nipple (13) and bores (12).Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 1999Date of Patent: March 13, 2001Assignee: Friatec AktiengesellschaftInventor: Dietrich Zosel
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Patent number: 6182973Abstract: A vacuum packing configuration and installation for use therewith, has a first part and a second part. The first part includes a hydraulically or pneumatically expandable, medium-tight volume adapted to be acted upon by an hydraulic or pneumatic medium, with a wall facing the second part and forming sealing faces fastened on the first part. The wall is a resilient metal diaphragm.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 1999Date of Patent: February 6, 2001Assignee: Balzers Hochvakuum AGInventor: Roman Schertler
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Patent number: 6122870Abstract: A stack ban for sealing a pipe and boot extending from a roof of a building is disclosed. The stack ban includes a band of flexible material having a smooth inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface has a circumference substantially equal to a circumference of the pipe and forms a seal between the pipe and boot. The stack ban is preferably secured in a place by a clamp threaded inside of the band and tightened during the installation process. The band is preferably made of neoprene rubber.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 1998Date of Patent: September 26, 2000Inventor: Roger Marcum
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Patent number: 6105945Abstract: An inverted strut damper includes an external cylinder which has an expanded midsection and a vertically moveable damper tube arranged concentrically within the outer cylinder. The outer cylinder and tube arrangement form a lubricating oil supply reservoir. Disposed at a top and a bottom of the outer cylinder is a respective oil seal and bearing arrangement. The upper bearing is adjacent to the lubricating oil reservoir and upon upper movement of the damper tube, oil is supplied to the upper bearings and seal.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 1997Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Showa CorporationInventors: Takashi Takeuchi, Hironobu Hosoda
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Patent number: 6103341Abstract: A partition for forming a barrier in a channel has a molded resin-based plate and a plurality of thermally expandable pellets attached to one side of the plate. The partition is secured in place in the channel by mounting brackets. As heat is applied, a blowing agent in the pellets is activated and the pellets expand to many times their original volume. The resultant foam seals the gap between the plate and the surrounding structure and further secures the plate in place. The partition is particularly useful in forming a sound/water/air barrier in an automotive cavity.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1997Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Assignee: L&L ProductsInventors: William Barz, Thomas L. Coon, Michael Czaplicki
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Patent number: 6095207Abstract: In a sealing device for a filling opening, especially for sealing it against the escape of fuel fumes when filling stationary or mobile supply tanks, a seal is located in the vicinity of the filling opening and abuts in a sealing fashion an object such as a filling device that is inserted into the filling opening. The seal automatically controlled by means of a control unit between an inactive resting position and an active sealing position of the seal. As a result, the seal is protected especially well against damage during insertion or withdrawal of the filling device, and reliable sealing can be expected in the long term.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Assignee: Mannesmans VDO AGInventor: Walter Enders
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Patent number: 6003873Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and device for sealing the entrance of an elongated element (1) into the lower end of an offshore tube (8), --including the steps of arranging a plug-like device (2) on the element, --pulling a predetermined length of the element into the tube, --and fixing the plug on the element surface at the bellmouth entrance (7) of the tube, the outer diameter of the plug being somewhat smaller than the inner diameter of the tube. Expandable foam is injected to a space (11,12) between the outer surface of the plug (2) and the inner surface of the tube (8), --in order to substantially fill said space.The foam is supplied to the space (11,12) from at least one foam container (15) placed inside the plug, --via ducts (13,14) within the plug. The foam container (15) is operated from a drive gas cartridge (16) also arranged within the plug (2) and is operable by an ROV.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1998Date of Patent: December 21, 1999Assignee: AlcatelInventor: Lars Aksel Solberg
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Patent number: 5997006Abstract: A bidirectional gasket providing a water-tight seal between a manhole assembly and a pipe, having a T-shaped anchoring portion for embedment in a manhole opening. An A-shaped pipe engagement portion joined to the anchoring portion by a connecting web facilitates bending of the gasket. The A-shaped portion has "legs" and recesses forming water pockets preventing water from entering between gasket and pipe. The gasket durometer enhances the water tight seal of the legs with increasing water pressure. The pipe engaging portion accommodates a greater outside pipe diameter compared with conventional connectors due to reduced volume, by providing voids within the connector. The gasket accommodates diameter deflection or ovation in rigid and flexible pipe materials. The A-shaped profile provides greater angular deflection and/or pipe misalignment allowance compared with conventional connectors.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1997Date of Patent: December 7, 1999Assignee: Poly-Tec Products, Inc.Inventors: James A. Westhoff, James A. Kelly
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Patent number: 5979909Abstract: The present description pertains to a duct seal, or splice case seal, or other sealing member which is an inflatable envelope having an opening directly through a wall of the envelope or between walls thereof through which a probe is inserted to introduce a pressurizing medium. A means is provided for sealing of the sealing member upon withdrawal of the probe. Preferably the pressurizing medium is air. Preferably the walls of the envelope are substantially non-stretchable. An internal flap may be provided across the opening through which the probe is inserted, where the internal flap seals in response to pressure from within the sealing member. The flap preferably comprises a flexible polymeric sheet fixed to a wall of the sealing member such that the probe can pass through the hole and displace the flap, with the probe preferably passing between the flap and the wall substantially in the plane of the wall and at an angle of less than about 45.degree. to the plane of the wall.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: NV Raychem SAInventor: Alain Wambeke