Repair Patents (Class 285/15)
  • Patent number: 4893841
    Abstract: In a primary sanitary sewer line having at least one lateral secondary sewer line connected therewith and having the bore of the primary line sealed by an impervious plastic liner tube, a sleeve is inserted into the end portion of the lateral line at its connection with the primary line prior to the installation of the liner tube and abuts and is sealed with the wall of the liner tube in a manner permitting visual indentification, from within the liner tube, of the exact position of the lateral line connection with the primary line whereby, using the inner wall surface of the sleeve, that portion of the plastic liner tube wall covering the adjacent end of the sleeve may be reamed out of the sleeve without damage to the primary or secondary sewer lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1990
    Inventor: William D. Bowen
  • Patent number: 4852913
    Abstract: Apparatus for the in-situ repair of a pipe comprises a pair of trough-like units each of which has an arcuate wall and each of which is of such size that the two units may closely encircle the pipe. One unit has circumferentially spaced shoulders from which flanges diverge outwardly, and the other unit has free side edges that may be accommodated between the flanges in confronting relation with the shoulders. Clamps may be applied to the assembled units to maintain them in encircling relation with the pipe, the shoulders preventing the application of crushing force on the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1987
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1989
    Inventor: Albert J. Brooks
  • Patent number: 4822075
    Abstract: A flanged coupling for the repair of pipelines and risers, especially for sub-marine repair and construction, and of unit configuration engageable over a first open pipe section and its flange to seal with a flange of a second open pipe section, and having a piston actuated by drawing said two flanges together and a shear member sequentially controlling operation of a slip and a packing to anchor and seal the coupling unit to the first pipe section operating a slip and a packing to anchor and seal the coupling unit to the first pipe section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1987
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1989
    Inventor: James R. Reaux
  • Patent number: 4821943
    Abstract: The drive mechanism for driving the welding head (17) in rotation in the tube is arranged in a motor casing (18) inserted between first and second sections (16a, 16b) of a flexible tubing. The translational movements of the welding head (17) for positioning it in the tube (3) are provided by the sections (16a) of the flexible tubing. The transmission of rotation between the drive mechanism and the welding head (17) is provided by a flexible transmission member arranged in the second section (16b) of the flexible tubing. The device is intended in particular for welding a small repair liner at any height in a steam generator tube of a pressurized-water nuclear reactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1989
    Assignee: Framatome
    Inventors: Jean-Paul Gaudin, Jean P. Peyrot
  • Patent number: 4731982
    Abstract: A method of sealing leaking gas pipe joints by injecting a catalyzed acrylic monomer composition into the leaking joint and curing the composition in the joint to seal the leak is characterized in that the composition when cured has a glass transition temperature which is no more than 0.degree. C. and is at least about 5.degree. C. below the minimum pipe joint operating temperature. Suitable sealants are mixture of long chain monoacrylic esters, hydroxy functional acrylic esters, acid monomers, plasticizers and polyfunctional acrylic esters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 22, 1988
    Assignee: Loctite Ltd.
    Inventors: Seamus M. Grant, Bernard Cooke, Kieran Mulcahy
  • Patent number: 4730852
    Abstract: The invention is a device for repairing a defective exhaust system of a vehicle. Some types of catalytic converters have an integral collar to hold the converter to the vehicle. Failure of the collar due to corrosion and other factors results in the converter being only partially supported by the vehicle and may also result in a poor connection with the rest of the exhaust system. The device of the invention acts both to vertically support the converter of the vehicle and to secure the converter to the rest of the exhaust system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1988
    Inventor: Christopher Arscott
  • Patent number: 4676528
    Abstract: A tubular upset extension apparatus which prolongs the usefulness of upsetted tubing joints used in drilling oil, gas and water well bore holes. The upset extension apparatus is fitted onto hollow bore tubing having shortened and specially threaded box and pin joints and a beveled peripheral shoulder at the inner terminal of the threads. The upset extension apparatus likewise has a hollow bore and specially threaded male and female ends which are rotatably engageable with the shortened tubing upsets. An exterior, non-bore penetrating circumferential groove is defined by the point of intersection of the shoulders of the upset extension and the shortened tubing upset. The circumferential groove receives a cosmetic weld, non-thread and non-bore penetrating weld which rigidly secures the upset extension to the shortened upset and maintains the internal and external integrity of the engaged sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1987
    Inventor: Theodor R. Gray
  • Patent number: 4673122
    Abstract: Breached copper pipes are repaired by wrapping a solder coated strip of copper about the pipe, mounting a multiple section heat jacket about the pipe over the strip, and heating the heat jacket with a torch or an electrical heating element inserted into a channel formed in the jacket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1986
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1987
    Inventor: Thomas W. Dubey
  • Patent number: 4653782
    Abstract: A pipe repair clamp comprises a two-piece type split-collar, the collar being formed by joining the two pieces together about the surface of the pipe to be repaired. The pieces are shaped to form scarf-type joints and are provided with, affixed to their internal surfaces, portions of a gasket for sealing the surface of the pipe to be repaired from the external surface of the collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1986
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1987
    Assignee: British Gas Corporation
    Inventor: Keith Munday
  • Patent number: 4648626
    Abstract: A telescopic joint for repairing underwater pipelines laid at a great depth in which an annular sheath of steel having a yield point of not more than one half that of an outer sleeve of the joint is welded onto an inner cylinder, to create with the inner cylinder an annular chamber or interspace, the cylinder-sheath-sleeve assembly being guided in its telescopic movement by an inner tube welded coaxially to an end of the outer sleeve. The interspace is connected to an oil pump which under adequate pressure can cause the steel sheath to expand, to the extent that it yields, to interlock with the outer sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1987
    Assignees: Nuovo Pignone S.p.A., Snam S.p.A.
    Inventors: Constantino Vinciguerra, Giampaolo Bonfiglioli
  • Patent number: 4647072
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a repair sleeve comprising a flexible, hose-like main part (1) and a spiral spring (2), which, when the sleeve is mounted in a pipe line, pretensions the hose-like main part (1) into sealing engagement against the inner wall of the surrounding pipe. The invention also includes an insertion device (4) for the repair sleeve, said device being a cylindrical body (5) mounted on wheels. At the ends of this body (5) there are latching means (7, 8) which are releasably fastenable to the ends of the spring (2). The latching means comprise a pin (7) biased to thrust out through the wall of the body (5) and into holes at the ends of the spring (2) wound round the body (5). Both pins (7) are simultaneously releasable with the aid of a linkage system (11, 13, 14, 15) on actuating the system. Eyes or cages (8) accommodating the ends of the springs are also associated with the pins (7).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1985
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1987
    Inventor: Stig Westman
  • Patent number: 4639016
    Abstract: A system for repairing pipeline, such as underground fuel, gas or water pipeline systems which have been damaged by explosives, wherein the ruptured sections have been misaligned. Quick-connect fittings are attached to the misaligned pipe ends after trimming and a bridging conduit system is interposed between the fittings having adjustable portions for accommodating the misalignment. Rotative angular sections provide universal adjustment while retaining the fluid-tight integrity of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1984
    Date of Patent: January 27, 1987
    Assignee: Aeroquip Corporation
    Inventors: Russell L. Rogers, Neill D. Perrine, Richard M. Alexander
  • Patent number: 4626142
    Abstract: A drilling machine operable by a single operator to tap into a pipeline includes an elongated boring bar to which a number of different tools such as drills and hole saws may be removably attached. The boring bar is positioned within a body tube allowing rotation of the boring bar relative to the body tube. The body tube is positioned within an internally threaded feed tube such that as the feed tube is rotated, the boring bar is advanced. Manual or automatic driving equipment is secured to the boring bar to rotate the tool. A clutch mechanically couples the rotation of the driving equipment to the feed tube to move the tool into the pipeline at a controlled rate. The clutch includes a feed nut threadably secured to the feed tube. Adjacent the feed nut is a clutch member slideably secured to the feed tube. A biasing member such as a wave spring is position between the feed nut and the clutch member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1985
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1986
    Assignee: Quali-Tech Machine & Engineering Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Brin, James Mette
  • Patent number: 4620731
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing a pair of circularly coacting pipe flanges which includes a seal around the outer periphery of both the flanges for sealing the outer periphery and a bolt having a coacting nut extending through the bolt holes of the flange. A first sealing ferrule is positioned between the bolt head and one flange and a second sealing ferrule is positioned between the nut and the other flange. The ferrules include a conical exterior surface tapering inwardly and extending into the bolt holes for preventing the escape of fluid through the bolt holes. Each head and first ferrule and each nut and second ferrule include coacting tapered surfaces for pressing the ferrules into a sealing relationship with the bolt and flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1985
    Date of Patent: November 4, 1986
    Inventor: Bendel S. Rushing
  • Patent number: 4598455
    Abstract: An improved pressure type connection on stepped-thread Hydril-type tubing and casing tool joints is disclosed, wherein a secondary sealing means is included between the stepped threaded areas of the Hydril-type connector. The secondary sealing means includes an annular ring of relatively rigid, internally tenacious plastic or rubber material, which serves to contain well pressure if the metal-to-metal sealing surfaces on the pin and box members of the Hydril-type connector are damaged. With such secondary sealing rings, damaged Hydril-type connectors can still be used, without having to scrap same, or having to repair the damaged area at great expense.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1986
    Inventor: James B. N. Morris
  • Patent number: 4592577
    Abstract: A sealable multimetallic sleeve for a rapid repair of a degraded tube caused by a detrimental chemical attack on the outside surface of the tube within and in a vicinity of a tube sheet in a steam generator, and the method for sealably inserting the sleeve in the degraded tube spanning the region of the degradation. The sleeve includes an inner member with equivalent mechanical properties of the degraded tube and an outer member metallurgically bonded to the inner member and resistive to caustic intergranular chemical attack causing tube degradation. The sleeve has an expanded portion at one end for positioning in the tube within the tube sheet and a multiplicity of grooves in and adjacent to the other end of the sleeve and braze material contained in the grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1982
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1986
    Assignee: The Babcock & Wilcox Company
    Inventors: Paul S. Ayres, Louis E. Stark, Joel G. Feldstein, Tzerong Fu
  • Patent number: 4582551
    Abstract: Joints and leaks in pipelines or mains are sealed by injecting into the joint or leak a sealant by means of an expandible tubular pig which is moved endwise through the pipeline or main. The sealant is in the form of an anaerobically curable monomer which cures in the relatively air free conditions in the joint or leak. The pig forms within the pipeline or main an air-free space which communicates with the joint or leak and which is isolated from the fluid in the main. Nevertheless the pig is hollow to permit the flow of fluid therethrough while the joint or leak is sealed. The sealant is injected into the joint or leak by way of the space so that the sealant cures in situ in the joint or leak.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1984
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1986
    Assignee: British Gas Corporation
    Inventors: Adrian S. Parkes, Gordon J. Corbett, Peter S. Clough, Colin N. H. Barker
  • Patent number: 4576401
    Abstract: A leak repair clamp for pipe and pipe flanges includes a frame having a plurality of one piece frame segments positionable in end-to-end relationship around the pipe. Each segment includes a pair of spaced apart metal lips which are adapted to form a metal-to-metal seal with a pipe or flanges when the frame segments are connected together. Access means are provided in each frame segment to permit the passes of liquid sealant into the recess defined by the lips and the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1986
    Assignee: Team, Inc.
    Inventor: George W. Harrison
  • Patent number: 4576400
    Abstract: A repair assembly for broken or leaking risers in underground irrigation systems is provided. The repair assembly is adapted to be inserted into a hole through the wall of a buried water distribution line and is held in place by locking tangs engaging the interior surface of the distribution line and by a locking ring flange disposed about the exterior of the assembly and bearing on the exterior wall of the distribution line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 18, 1986
    Inventors: Von D. Allred, Don B. Harmon
  • Patent number: 4575129
    Abstract: An improved pipelock comprising a first pair of rings facing each other axially, with the inner diameter of each ring at the outer face being smaller than the inner diameter of each ring at the inner face, each of said first pair of rings comprising at least two circumferential parts, means to restrain longitudinal movement of facing circumferential parts outwardly from each other, at least one second ring comprised of at least two circumferential parts connected to each other, outwardly surrounding said first pair of rings, and constraining outward radial movement of said first pair of rings, at least one third ring comprised of at least two circumferential parts, having an outer surface conforming to the inner surface of said first pair of rings, and at least one waffled fourth ring comprised of at least two circumferential parts having an outer surface in contact with the inner surface of said third ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1984
    Date of Patent: March 11, 1986
    Assignee: O'Donnell & Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Engelina Porowski
  • Patent number: 4572548
    Abstract: A novel pipelock comprising a first pair of rings facing each other axially, with the inner diameter of each ring at the outer face being smaller than the inner diameter of each ring at the inner face, each of said first pair of rings comprising at least two circumferential parts, means to restrain longitudinal movement of facing circumferential parts outwardly from each other, at least one second ring comprised of at least two circumferential parts connected to each other, outwardly surrounding said first pair of rings, and constraining outward radial movement of said first pair of rings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1986
    Assignee: O'Donnell & Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Jan S. Porowski, William J. O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 4570322
    Abstract: An adapter is disclosed for mounting an exhaust muffler onto a threaded exhaust port located at the external surface of an internal combustion engine. The adapter includes a hollow, cylindrical neck portion having screw threads formed on a first end thereof and circumferentially about the outer surface thereof, for threadably engaging the threaded exhaust port of the internal combustion engine. The adapter further includes a plate portion formed on a second end of the neck portion, having a central opening coincident with the hollow interior of the neck portion, with a first face proximate to the screw threads and a second face opposite to the first face. The adapter forms a seal between the external surface of the internal combustion engine and the first surface of the plate portion when the neck portion is operatively engaged with the exhaust port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1983
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1986
    Inventor: William R. Dence
  • Patent number: 4568091
    Abstract: A sealing member including a seal retainer sleeve provided in segments and two spaced apart grooves defined all around the inner wall of the sleeve. Sleeve is adapted to be fitted around outside of a cylindrical surface on each side of an opening. An elastomeric fluid pressure seal segment is mounted within each groove in the sleeve to provide a fluid tight seal within the spaced confined between the grooves. The bottom of each of the grooves is dovetailed to retain corresponding mounting beads of the seal. Each segment of the seal, as mounted within the grooves, is shaped with an outside diameter surface merging into the mounting beads. The high pressure bead of the mounting beads merges into the side of a groove extending axially into the segment. The other side of the groove merges into a flexible lip which is responsive to pressure applied within the cylindrical space. The lip extends into an inside diameter surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1985
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1986
    Assignee: Team, Inc.
    Inventor: George W. Harrison
  • Patent number: 4565393
    Abstract: A telescoping joint for plastic pipe comprises a pair of sleeve members bonded to adjacent ends of a pair of pipe sections, a tubular body member into opposite ends of which sleeve members telescope, with O-ring seals carried by the sleeve members forming a seal against the inner surface of the body member, and tubular adaptor members which fit on the respective pipe sections adjacent the sleeve members and thread into opposite ends of the body member to provide thrust restraint precluding withdrawal of the sleeve members and the pipe sections therefrom. The joint may be used for in situ repairs of fractured pipe, or may be supplied with pipe sections bonded-in, for use in a telescoping joint or union to be coupled into a pipe line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1986
    Assignee: Ameron Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald G. Greaves
  • Patent number: 4552183
    Abstract: A repair structure for the repair, mainly, of leaking pipelines. The repair structure is a bandage of absorbent material impregnated with a curable resin. The bandage is wrapped round the pipeline to form a hard seal casing when the resin cures. The bandage preferably comprises also an impermeable membrane and a vent to allow leaking medium to escape while the bandage is being applied, with the membrane innermost, and while the resin is curing. The vent comprises a bush cast around a vent sleeve and bonded to the membrane. The resin which is used to form the vent bush and the membrane is the same as that used for the impregnation of the absorbent layer so that such layer will bond to the membrane. The sleeve is removable and can be replaced by a solid plug to seal the vent bush when the rigid seal casing is formed. The casing extends over a gallery in the region of the joint so that it will act as a bellow and accomodate large relative pipe section movements without failing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1984
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1985
    Assignee: Readyseal Limited
    Inventor: Douglas K. Chick
  • Patent number: 4521037
    Abstract: A coupling for joining two pipe sections having elongated outer surfaces and end terminals, comprises:(a) a tubular extension fitted endwise between the pipe terminals to form joints therewith,(b) first and second collars telescopically movable axially of the tubular extension into coupling positions spanning the respective joints,(c) one collar having an axially elongated bore and counterbore, one of which has elongated slideable engagement with the outer surface of one end of the extension, and the other of which has elongated slideable engagement with the elongated outer surface of one pipe section,(d) the other collar having an axially elongated bore and counterbore, one of which has elongated slideable engagement with the outer surface of the other end of the extension, and the other of which has elongated slideable engagement with the elongated outer surface of the other pipe section,(e) and liquid bonding agent between the collar and said pipe sections and said extension to bond the collars to the exte
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1984
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1985
    Inventor: Granville S. Knox
  • Patent number: 4499925
    Abstract: A mesh hose bears upon a liquid pervious, for instance helical-spring shaped support body, and upon such mesh hose there lies a paper-like hose. This structure is loosely placed in an external mesh hose portion. The paper-like hose can be impregnated. If such sealing device is placed with closed ends into a concrete joint, which then is to be closed with concrete, the sealing device then can be drilled from the outside through the concrete and filled with a sealing compound or agent which penetrates through the wall of the device into untight or leaky concrete locations and can seal the same. The paper-like hose successfully prevents the clogging of the device by concrete grout or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 19, 1985
    Assignee: Aquarius fur Dichte Bauten AG
    Inventor: Peter Kaufmann
  • Patent number: 4487432
    Abstract: A no-hole insertion joint and method for the repair or relining of fluid conduits such as gas service lines and the like. The joint structure and method are particularly adapted for use in the repair or relining of gas service lines from a building in order to eliminate the requirement of exterior digging or excavation. A tubular conduit is provided which includes, at the free and thereof, a joint and sealing structure. The tubular conduit and the attached joint and sealing structure are inserted into the existing service line a distance so as to be in proximity with the tee at the main. Once in place, the joint and sealing structure is activated by means of heat producing a melting of a low melting point alloy which, in turn, causes a gasket to be brought into sealing contact with the internal wall of the service line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1981
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1984
    Assignee: Perfection Corporation
    Inventors: David P. Passerell, Frank R. Volgstadt
  • Patent number: 4478434
    Abstract: A device for coupling adjacent ends of tubular members such as flexible tubular members comprising an elongated open ended tube member having an outside diameter that is approximately the same as the inside diameter of the tubular members to be coupled, a slit formed extending the length of the tube member forming adjacent slit edge surfaces oriented at an angle relative to the radius to the tube member thereat, a pair of aligned strap-like members having opposite ends connected respectively to the tube member on opposite sides of the slit and adjacent ends, cooperatively engagable threaded members connecting the adjacent ends of the strap-like members and adjustable in one direction to move the slit edge surfaces circumferentially relative to each other in one direction and in an opposite direction to move the slit edge surfaces circumferentially in an opposite direction relative to each other, and another threaded member operatively connected to one of the strap-like members on one side of the slit and adju
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1982
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1984
    Inventor: Gerald R. Little
  • Patent number: 4448218
    Abstract: An apparatus for patching leaks in pipes, hoses, containers and the like has a rectangularly shaped inflatable pad comprising top and bottom layers with the top layer constructed of inelastic material and the bottom layer of very elastic material connected together. The pad has mutually opposite side strips and mutually opposing frontal and rear strips. Straps are provided for attachment to the side strips for securing the pad about a leak in a pipe, or the like. The pad is provided with a valve and member for inflating the pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1981
    Date of Patent: May 15, 1984
    Inventor: Manfred Vetter
  • Patent number: 4437686
    Abstract: An adjustable and repairable flow diverter for food processing equipment 10 includes a mounting plate 11 supporting junctions 13-15 so that a movable jumper 12 can variably interconnect pipes 27 and 28 leading to the plate. The junctions are formed as coupler tubes 23-25 with a connection at one end for the pipes and a connection at the other end for the jumper. The plate has tube holes 41 arranged to receive the coupler tubes, and the tube holes are larger than the outside diameter of the coupler tubes and large enough to allow the coupler tubes to be axially removed from and replaced in the plate. Each of the coupler tubes 23-25 has an encircling collar 43-45 with an outside diameter substantially larger than tube holes 41, and studs 46 are secured to the collars at equiangular spacing around the collars to be parallel with the axes of the coupler tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1981
    Date of Patent: March 20, 1984
    Assignee: Fluid Operations & Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Clarence W. Wingate
  • Patent number: 4434816
    Abstract: Interior by-pass for underground gas service line is installed from building basement without need for excavation, and has a tightenable adapter attached on each end of the by-pass tubing to connect and seal the tubing to the interior periphery of the service line. Each adapter provides a pair of spaced-apart expanded sealing gaskets between the tubing and the service line, and a gas-leakage passage extending from the interior of the tubular adapter to the exterior spacing between the adapter gasket pair. Temporary gas-tight plugs are provided at respective locations between each leakage passage and the adjacent end of the by-pass tubing, and compressed natural gas test-pressure is applied within the tubing. Via both of the referred to leakage passages, the test pressure is exerted against all of the gasket seals to confirm gas-tightness thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1980
    Date of Patent: March 6, 1984
    Inventors: Bernard A. Di Giovanni, Francisco J. Ciminiello
  • Patent number: 4427112
    Abstract: Interior by-pass for underground gas service line is installed from building basement without need for excavation, and has a tightenable adapter attached on each end of the by-pass tubing to connect and seal the tubing to the interior periphery of the service line. Each adapter provides a pair of spaced-apart expanded sealing gaskets between the tubing and the service line, and a gas-leakage passage extending from the interior of the tubular adapter to the exterior spacing between the adapter gasket pair. Temporary gas-tight plugs are provided at respective locations between each leakage passage and the adjacent end of the by-pass tubing, and compressed natural gas test-pressure is applied within the tubing. Via both of the referred to leakage passages, the test pressure is exerted against all of the gasket seals to confirm gas-tightness thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1982
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1984
    Inventors: Bernard A. Di Giovanni, Francisco J. Ciminiello
  • Patent number: 4411459
    Abstract: A branch fitting for providing access to the interior of a pipe, the fitting having first and second body portions each having a semi-cylindrical surface adapted to sealably engage the pipe, the body portions being secured together and to the pipe in a pressure retaining relationship, one body portion having a first and second integral cylindrical barrel portion extending in the plane of the tubular axis of the pipe, the cylindrical axii of the barrel portions intersecting each other at a point at or adjacent the pipe wall, a cutter within one of the barrel portions having a shaft extending sealably exteriorly of the barrel portion whereby the cutter may be rotated and axially advanced to form an opening in the pipe, the opening being coincident with the cylindrical axis of the second barrel portion. The second barrel portion may contain a plugging member and means of delivering it into the interior of the pipe through the formed opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1981
    Date of Patent: October 25, 1983
    Assignee: T. D. Williamson, Inc.
    Inventor: Burton Ver Nooy
  • Patent number: 4406481
    Abstract: A clamp is provided to seal the gap between a pair of flanges (8) of connected sections of pipe (7) when a gasket (10 ) between the pipe sections fails. The sealing clamp comprises a pair of half-rings (1) incorporation rectangular grooves (3) which receive a lead sealing insert (4) formed with a tapered face (6) opposite that which is received in the groove (3). The half-rings (1) have terminal lugs bored to receive bolts by means of which the clamp can be tightened about the flanges (8), with the result that the insert (4) is distorted to form an effective annular seal for the gap between the flanges (8). The tapered face (6) ensures that the clamp is self-centering and that the clamp is not likely to be displaced sideways if subjected to an accidental blow. Pre-drilled holes (13) in the half-rings (1) can be continued through the insert (4) to enable a sealing compound to be injected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1980
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1983
    Assignee: SIBEX (Construction) Limited
    Inventor: Michael Summerell
  • Patent number: 4357961
    Abstract: A pipeline repairing kit comprising (a) a sealed, flexible envelope; (b) two removable means dividing said envelope into at least first, second and third compartments, said means being removable selectively to connect the first and second and third compartments without opening the sealed envelope; (c) measured quantities of the parts of a two-part curable resin system in the first and second compartments; and (d) an elongated flexible bandage member made of absorbent material disposed in said third compartment, said member including an integral closeable vent, whereby an elongated resin-soaked flexible bandage member adapted for wrapping around a pipeline can be provided by first removing the removable means between said first and second compartments to thereby mix the parts of the resin system, next removing the other removable means and bringing the mixed resin into intimate contact with said elongated flexible member, and then manually manipulating the envelope so as to thoroughly impregnate said bandage m
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1980
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1982
    Inventor: Douglas K. Chick
  • Patent number: 4350548
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for causing a flexible tubular lining material to be fixed to the inner surface of a pipe line wherein the tubular lining material is initially attached to the inner surface of the pipe line by a binder provided on the surface of the tubular lining material which comprises providing a flexible hose material having a porous structure inside the pipe line which has been lined with the tubular lining material and introducing a heated gaseous fluid stream into the interior of the flexible hose whereby the heated gaseous fluid stream is introduced through the pores of the flexible hose along the inner surface of the lined pipe line, the flexible tubular lining material being warmed to accelerate the curing of the binder interposed between the inner surface of the pipe line and the flexible lining material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 1981
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1982
    Assignees: Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd., Ashimori Industry, Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuaki Zenbayashi, Akio Morinaga, Masao Hirayama, Akira Morita
  • Patent number: 4330143
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting first and second flowline members for fluid flow therethrough and a method of utilizing same for effectuating such a repair, with the apparatus including a first housing member adapted to be mounted with the first flowline member and having a seal ring mounted therein for sealably engaging the butt end of a second flowline member for effecting a fluid-tight relation therebetween, a second housing member mounted for axial movement with respect to the first housing member and gripping means with the second housing member for moving radially inwardly into gripping engagement with the second flowline member upon axial movement of the second housing member toward the first housing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1979
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1982
    Inventor: Bobby J. Reneau
  • Patent number: 4326735
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an article and processes for repairing fluid (e.g., liquid and gas) leaks in pipes, including, for example, bell and spigot joints.The device and process of the invention incorporates an elastomeric sleeve that extends around the pipe and longitudinally to either side of the leak. The sleeve contains a resin injection port with means to prevent escape of resin at a pressure above a predetermined pressure, and a fluid venting port with pressure-relief means to permit the escape of fluid at a predetermined pressure above the pressure in the pipe to be repaired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1982
    Assignee: Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: David N. Hunder, Harold C. Hervig, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4323526
    Abstract: A method for sealing leaking pipe joints comprises installing and securing a flexible mold around the pipe joint. The pipe joint and the mold are then preheated to within a predetermined temperature range and a chemically settable, flexible fluid sealing material is injected into the mold. The sealing material is cured by maintaining the pipe joint and the interior of the mold within the predetermined temperature range. The injection rate of the sealing material is preferably increased by decreasing the pressure of the interior of the mold. Proper sealing may be facilitated by increasing the pressure within the mold while the sealing material is curing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1980
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1982
    Assignee: Rubco Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward O. Hilbush, III
  • Patent number: 4299413
    Abstract: A coupling assembly particularly for connecting sections of plastic pipe comprises a sleeve and a clamp assembly. The sleeve has internal seals for providing a seal between the sleeve and pipe sections inserted into the sleeve. The clamp assembly comprises two identical clamp members, each generally arcuate in shape, adapted to fit in opposing relationship and formed for connection to each other. The clamp members are each formed with a serrated inner surface to bite into the outer surface of the adjoining pipe section. The coupling assembly may be easily and quickly installed without special tools or equipment and is especially useful for the field repair of damaged pipe sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1979
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1981
    Assignee: Ciba-Geigy Corporation
    Inventor: Martin D. Neher
  • Patent number: 4294275
    Abstract: The nut is for repairing leaking bolt holes in flanged pipe joints by means of a closed-end nut having a sharp circular projection on its open end. When this sealing nut is substituted for existing nuts on bolts in the flanged joint and tightened, the nut, which is hardened, cuts a circular groove in the face of the flange that makes a metal-to-metal seal to close leaks at bolt holes. The bolts may be same diameter as the existing bolts and may be installed one at a time to accomplish the repair without reducing pressure in the pipe. Leakage from between the flanges at their perimeter is closed off by sealing in a conventional manner by welding a band around the perimeter of the flanges before the bolt hole sealing is started.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1979
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1981
    Assignee: Totman Seal Nut, Inc.
    Inventor: Mirrel L. Totman
  • Patent number: 4290632
    Abstract: A grip-seal apparatus for connecting together flowline end portions having first and second housings having alignable bores therethrough, with gripper member mounted in the first housing for moving radially inwardly into gripping engagement with the first flowline member. A sealing assembly is mounted with the second housing for moving radially inwardly into sealing engagement with the first flowline member. An activating sleeve mounted in the second housing and with the gripper members moves longitudinally into engagement with the gripper members and the sealing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 1980
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1981
    Inventors: Luther L. Manchester, Jr., Bobby J. Reneau
  • Patent number: 4281856
    Abstract: A cementable coupling for plastic pipe, that may be employed whether the parts are wet or dry, including cementable fitting and sleeve members that initially provide a dry seal near the end of the pipe, permitting initial drying of the pipe upstream of the dry seal, and enable later cementing of these members together and to the pipe at a location upstream of the dry seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1978
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1981
    Inventors: Alan L. Litman, James P. Strode
  • Patent number: 4274640
    Abstract: A sealing device for insertion in a flanged pipe coupling comprises a split ring with an annular sealing member seated in a groove in one axially facing side of the ring. At intervals around the ring there are screws which project radially inwardly into the base of the groove to co-operate with the concealed face of the sealing member. This face and the adjacent screw ends combine in a wedging or camming action as the screws are turned to urge the sealing member out from the groove. When placed between the flanges of a pipe coupling this action forms an effective seal which can be completed by injecting sealing compound through the ring. The ring, if not the sealing member, is re-usable if the seal has to be broken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1981
    Assignee: Sibex (Constructions) Limited
    Inventor: Barrie J. A. Cook
  • Patent number: 4271870
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed for blocking the flow of fluids through the interior of an elongated pipe section. The apparatus includes a pair of sectional housing members for interconnection around a flanged pipe joint to form an essentially airtight enclosure. Socket members are provided for selectively loosening and tightening bolts on the flanged pipe joint within the enclosure of the housing member, so that a cut-off blind member may be inserted between the pipe joint sections and then clamped in position to block the flow of fluids. Preferably, the assembly further includes a separate sealing ring mechanism which can be inserted between the pipe sections after the blind is removed, to serve as a replacement for the gasket material originally between the pipe sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 1979
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1981
    Inventors: Johnny L. Butler, Joe L. Valigura, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4268070
    Abstract: An orifice flange clamp for use with a pair of butted together pipe line orifice flanges. The clamp is comprised of a pair of semi-circular bands adapted to be clamped together around the periphery of the butted together orifice flanges at their interface. The bands have cut-out sections fitting around the conventional test plugs on the orifice flanges. Plugs are provided for sealing off the break-away bolt holes. A specially devised pumping collar is provided for pumping sealant through a flange bolt hole. This pumping collar comprises an elongated bolt-like member having a reduced diameter fitted through opposed flange holes with nuts at both ends in order that a pumping collar having a loose fit over the elongated bolt-like member can be drawn tight. The pumping collar is provided with a port which receives a sealant line for pumping sealant at high pressure through the port and through the collar to the interface between the butted together flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1978
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1981
    Inventor: Harold R. Adams
  • Patent number: 4260181
    Abstract: A pipe coupling useful in plumbing systems formed of unthreaded pipes for repairing damaged portions of said systems, particularly those portions occurring immediately adjacent emplaced couplings, such as an L or T coupling. A coupling in accordance with the invention is comprised of a pair of substantially semi-cylindrical pipe sections having longitudinal edges formed so as to mate with one another to hold the sections together. The sections are sized so a first end has an internal diameter substantially equal to the external diameter of the emplaced pipe so as to fit closely therearound, whereby an adhesive applied therebetween forms a water-tight seal. A second end of the sections is enlarged so as to fit around and engage and thereby be adapted to form a water-tight seal with the external diameter of the emplaced coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1981
    Inventor: Hoyt S. Curtin
  • Patent number: 4258737
    Abstract: In a tank having an internal float there is a standpipe coupled through the tank. The standpipe conducts liquid into the tank. Equipment for controlling the level of liquid in the tank includes a valve. This valve is operated by the float. A conduit depends from the valve. This conduit is longer than the valve and conducts liquid thereto. Also included is a pliable seal which mounted on the conduit at an end opposite the valve. This seal engages an interior surface of the conduit. The seal also has a bore sized to encircle and seal the standpipe. Thus, the standpipe may telescope into the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1979
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1981
    Inventor: Francis J. Wheeler
  • Patent number: 4240650
    Abstract: A clamp assembly for sealing a leaking pipe weld or pipe flange joints. The clamp comprises a collar having hinged-together arcuate segments. The collar is further provided with flanges adapted to be bolted together to connect the hinged segments which may be hinged together to form a pair of semi-circular sections. Each of the segments is provided with a main annular groove on the interior circumference with means on the exterior for filling the groove with a fluid sealant under pressure. A pair of annular border grooves spaced from the main groove are provided on the opposite sides of the main groove. Additional groove means are provided in the end walls of each of the segments which connect the main groove and the border grooves to provide a sealing means between the opposed end walls when butted together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1978
    Date of Patent: December 23, 1980
    Inventor: Harold R. Adams