Externally With Clamp Patents (Class 285/337)
  • Patent number: 6173993
    Abstract: A joint restraint (10) for securing a first pipe (12) to a second pipe. The joint restraint (10) includes an annular body (14) and a plurality of wedge housings (18) extending from the annular body (14) and characterized by open rear faces (38) to allow coreless casting. A bolt (32) is disposed within a hole (30) in each wedge housing (18) and a wedge (40) is disposed within each wedge housing (18). Each wedge (40) has a bolt-actuated tooth (52), a larger pressure-actuated tooth (54), a top surface (44) having a groove (48) adapted to slidably receive a bolt actuator (32), and a bottom surface (42) that is partially tapered to act as a bearing (76) limiting the extent of bolt-driven actuation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: EBAA Iron, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis D. Shumard, Michael L. Lundstrom
  • Patent number: 6168210
    Abstract: A pipe coupling (10) for coupling and sealing adjacent ends of two pipe sections (12, 14) of the same or different outer diameters. The pipe coupling (10) includes an annular sleeve (24), a pair of annular gaskets (22) and a pair of follower flanges (20) that surround the adjacent ends of the pipe sections (12, 14). The gaskets (22) have inclined front walls (42) that are angled generally complementary to clamping surfaces (28) formed at opposite ends of the sleeve (24). The gaskets further include inclined back walls (52). As the follower flanges (20) are urged toward the opposite ends of the sleeve (24), the inclined back walls (52) of the gaskets (22) cooperate with skirts (32) formed on the follower flanges (22) to cause the gaskets (22) to readily toe-in toward the outer walls of the pipe sections (12, 14) at relatively low torque and cause sealing engagement with pipe ends sections (12, 14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: M & FC Holding Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Edwin A. Bird
  • Patent number: 6131962
    Abstract: Coupling apparatus and methods for replacing a core spray line downcomer pipe coupled to a shroud T-box are described. In one embodiment, the coupling apparatus includes a seal ring, a mating flange, a housing, at least one coupling bolt, at least one spherical washer, and at least one lateral pin. The thermal expansion coefficient of the coupling bolt is lower than the thermal expansion coefficient of the seal ring, mating flange, and housing. After extending the downcomer pipe into the housing, the seal ring is inserted into the opposite end of the housing adjacent the downcomer pipe. The seal ring is then seated on the mating flange seat. The two seats allow the downcomer pipe to be rotational misaligned with the coupling apparatus. The coupling bolts extend through the mating flange and the housing to rigidly secure the downcomer pipe to the coupling apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Grant Clark Jensen, Jeffrey Lee Thompson
  • Patent number: 6131265
    Abstract: A plastic pipe adaptor (10) includes a length of pipe (12) having a plastic pipe wall (14) with a substantially rigid pipe stiffener (32) disposed inside the pipe and a substantially rigid collar (34) disposed about the pipe exteriorly of the pipe wall (14), the collar having a recess (40) therein. The stiffener (32) and collar (34) are positioned such that a portion (50) of the plastic pipe wall is disposed between the stiffener (32) and the collar recess (40) and at least a portion (52) of the pipe stiffener is deflected outwardly against the pipe wall portion (50) by an amount sufficient to wedge the pipe wall portion (50) into engagement with the collar recess (40). The result is a firm grip to the pipe which allows the collar to serve as an attachment to another member such as a mechanical joint (30). A method of making the adaptor (10) is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: M & FC Holding Company
    Inventor: Edwin A. Bird
  • Patent number: 6129391
    Abstract: A plastic pipe coupling for the joining of plain end plastic pipe that includes a pair of longitudinally displaced annular followers, a tubular middle ring extending between the opposite followers, an annular gasket within each follower contiguous to the middle ring, gripper segments within the follower that are operative during tightening installation of the follower about a received pipe end to effect a penetrating restraining grip against the surface of the pipe end and means on each of said followers cooperating with the end configuration of the middle ring to effect a snap-in-interlock and a perceptive signal when installation is completed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Rakieski
  • Patent number: 6106029
    Abstract: A pipe coupling for the joining of plain end plastic or metallic pipe that includes an annular follower, a tubular middle ring extending between opposite followers, an annular gasket within the follower contiguous to the middle ring and a restrainer unit within the follower comprising a lock ring having a plurality of arcuately spaced radial slots for slideably supporting individual gripper segments that are operative during tightening installation of the follower about a received pipe end to effect a penetrating restraining grip against the surface of the pipe end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Louis DeMore, Scott Alan Butler
  • Patent number: 6086111
    Abstract: The invention provides a pipe coupling (2) for connecting together a first pipe member (P1) having a liner pipe (L1) arranged in the bore thereof, to a second pipe member (P2); the pipe coupling comprising a first sleeve member (8) arranged to receive an end of the first pipe member (P1) whereby an end of the liner pipe (L1) can protrude axially therefrom; a second sleeve member (10) arranged to receive an end of the second pipe member (P2); a first annular sealing means (12) for disposal about the first pipe member (P1), the first annular sealing means (12) being arranged axially between a first annular collar (4) and the first sleeve member (8); second annular sealing means (14) and first gripping means (62) for disposal about an end of the liner pipe (l1), the second annular sealing means (14) being arranged axially between the first and second sleeve members (8,10); third annular sealing means (16) for disposal about the second pipe element (P2), the third annular sealing means (16) being arranged axially
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Glynwed Pipe Systems Limited
    Inventor: Brian Harper
  • Patent number: 6056330
    Abstract: A threadless coupler for connecting two large pipes in line and a third, relatively small pipe to form a Tee. The coupler has a clamp for engaging a male groove formed in each large pipe, the small pipe being connected by threading. The clamp comprises a collar surrounding the retained pipe. The clamp connects to the coupler by threaded fasteners. The coupler has two internal elastic seals which close over their respective large pipes. The clamp may be an annular collar which must be slipped over a pipe prior to forming the male groove, or two complementing sections which may be placed over the pipe after forming the groove. The coupler and pipes are all fabricated from non-malleable materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Inventors: Douglas C. Compton, James R. Drury
  • Patent number: 6019398
    Abstract: A tapping sleeve assembly for direct connection to a gate valve. The assembly includes a tapping sleeve attached to a main pipe. An outlet conduit formed integrally with and extend outwardly from the tapping sleeve terminates in a distal end outlet. A retaining ring is attached to the outer surface of the outlet conduit and is located between the tapping sleeve and the distal end outlet. Opposed, longitudinally facing annular surfaces are formed on the retaining ring with one of the annular surfaces facing the tapping sleeve and the other facing the distal end outlet. The annular surface facing the tapping sleeve is inclined. A gland telescopes over the outlet conduit. The gland has a collar with an annular surface engaged with an annular surface of the retaining ring. A gate valve has a socket facing the outlet conduit, a gasket is positioned in the socket and a mechanical joint flange surrounds the socket. Bolts and nuts attach the gland to the mechanical joint flange of the gate valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Pipeline Accessory Marketing, Ltd.
    Inventor: Edward J. Powers
  • Patent number: 6019396
    Abstract: A pipe connecting apparatus for connecting a first pipe with a second pipe inserted into the first pipe member is disclosed. The apparatus includes an elastic seal to be disposed within a gap formed between an inner peripheral face of the first pipe and an outer peripheral face of the second pipe, the elastic seal being compressed in an axial direction along the axis of the first pipe for sealing the gap, a press ring fitted on the second pipe, the press ring being movable on the outer peripheral face of the second pipe in the axial direction, and a retainer member fitted on the second pipe, the retainer member having a locked condition in which the retainer member is pressed against the second pipe and a released condition in which the retainer member is radially expanded to be released from the locked condition, the retainer member being switched over from the released condition to the locked condition in association with a movement thereof relative to the press ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Waterworks Technology Development Organization Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kikuo Saito, Yasushi Shimonaka, Hideki Yoneyama, Akihito Totsugi
  • Patent number: 5992905
    Abstract: A pipe joint for connecting a plain pipe end. The joint has a bell which has a socket defined therein. The socket includes an axis, a conical surface, a first cylindrical surface of smaller diameter extending from one end of the conical surface, a bottom of the socket adjacent the first cylindrical surface for seating the pipe end, and a second cylindrical surface of larger diameter extending from the other end of the conical surface. A gasket is disposed adjacent the conical surface prior to sealing with the conical surface acting as a gasket seat during sealing of the gasket. A gland is provided and has a radially extending handle for rotating the gland from outside the bell. A breech lock mechanism is provided which includes internal segments on the second cylindrical surface of the socket and corresponding, cooperating external segments on the gland, the internal and external segments having matching, mirrored inclined plane surfaces for engagement with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Suiken + Kennedy, LLP
    Inventors: Harold Kennedy, Jr., Toshiyuki Sato
  • Patent number: 5984001
    Abstract: A heat exchanger shell closure utilizing a tapered split ring is disclosed. The split ring of the invention has a tapered inner surface which fits into a corresponding tapered groove in a tube sheet barrel. A backup flange fits over the split ring, forcing the split ring into the deepest and forwardmost part of the groove, thereby preventing longitudinal movement of the split ring and the resulting movement and wear of a sealing ring which is held in place by the split ring as the heat exchanger undergoes load variations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Assignee: Brown Fintube Company
    Inventor: Joseph Welkey
  • Patent number: 5967568
    Abstract: A plastic pipe adaptor (10) includes a length of pipe (12) having a plastic pipe wall (14) with a substantially rigid pipe stiffener (32) disposed inside the pipe and a substantially rigid collar (34) disposed about the pipe exteriorly of the pipe wall (14), the collar having a recess (40) therein. The stiffener (32) and collar (34) are positioned such that a portion (50) of the plastic pipe wall is disposed between the stiffener (32) and the collar recess (40) and at least a portion (52) of the pipe stiffener is deflected outwardly against the pipe wall portion (50) by an amount sufficient to wedge the pipe wall portion (50) into engagement with the collar recess (40). The result is a firm grip to the pipe which allows the collar to serve as an attachment to another member such as a mechanical joint (30). A method of making the adaptor (10) is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: M&FC Holding Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Edwin A. Bird
  • Patent number: 5947527
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pipe junction holder for connecting a pipe to a mechanical joint. The junction holder contains a wedge placed between a seal gland and a wedge gland. The wedge has a split opening along its outer sloped surface. The seal gland is adapted for connection to the mechanical joint and the wedge gland. The wedge gland is adapted to seat over the wedge and cause the wedge to clamp on the pipe when the wedge glang is connected to the seal gland. The inner surface of the wedge is designed to clamp along substantially the entire circumference of the pipe when the wedge is tightly held in place over the pipe. The invention also provides a method of joining pipes with mechanical joints, wherein a free end of the pipe is adapted to be seated in a socket end of the mechanical joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Floyd W. Carter
  • Patent number: 5941576
    Abstract: A connector or coupling device for pipes of different materials and different diameters. The connector is formed by a single integral sleeve of roughly barrel shape. The two open end portions of the sleeve are defined by a narrow slightly outwardly flaring flange. The connector is further provided by at least one angular U-shaped ring having two ears adapted to receive a screw and bolt for tightening the ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Eliezer Krausz
  • Patent number: 5803513
    Abstract: In restrained sealed bolted joints of fluid piping systems, including both plastic and metallic pipe, improvements have previously been made in providing adequate grip rings to keep the inserted ends of pipe in place. When larger diameter pipes, especially larger diameter plastic pipes, were inserted into these sealed bolted joints, some difficulties were encountered. Therefore, a compression control ring is now provided to controllably transfer and to limit the tightening force component, which moves the gasket into sealing contacts with the respective pipe sections being joined. Also circumferentially spaced skid pads are positioned about each grip ring, assuring each respective grip ring will not prematurely commence gripping a pipe. In addition, the gland has been improved, so any possible large assembly forces, or any large fluid pressures in the piping system will not be effective in distorting the gland.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Robert J. Richardson
  • Patent number: 5782576
    Abstract: A connection of rotationally symmetrical components, in which minimal overturning torques and consequently minimal deformations of the supporting components are generated by generating the smallest, theoretically possible lever arm, on which the forces of the connection to be transmitted act. As a result, a nonpositive and positive-locking connection is obtained, in which the bolts no longer represent the dominantly loaded component. The maintenance and testing of the bolts is considerably reduced in all connections. Optimal flux of forces through the components close to the line of force application is achieved in the case of the tensioning of large rolling bearings. The requirements in terms of concentration of the contact pressure of the bearing tensioning in the vicinity of the line of force application are satisfied. In the case of a flange connection, optimal conditions are provided for tightness, besides a more economical manufacture, compared with the prior-art designs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventors: Alfred Schlemenat, Walter Langhoff
  • Patent number: 5779285
    Abstract: A coupling assembly for joining two spaced coaxial pipe ends comprises an elongate sleeve adapted to receive coaxially two opposing pipe ends to be connected. The sleeve has frusto-conical ends opening outwardly and receiving a pair of annular elastomeric gaskets adapted to fit into the frusto-conical ends of the sleeve in sliding engagement around the pipe ends to be connected. A separate retaining ring member is located axially outward of each end of the sleeve to encircle the pipe ends to be connected. Each retaining ring member has a frustoconical inner wall facing the sleeve to define a gripping ring chamber. Positioned in each gripping ring chamber is a separate radially compressible gripping ring member. Separate engagement ring members are located at each end of the sleeve at a location between the elastomeric gasket and the gripping ring at that respective end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Assignee: Perfection Corporation
    Inventor: Dave Robison
  • Patent number: 5772252
    Abstract: Thus, the present device provides a nut and bolt assembly having a lower threaded end and opposing upper threaded end. A first flange seats above the lower threaded end and an upper flange seats below the upper threaded end. A weak point having a known torque limit is provided below the upper flange. A nut is mounted on the upper threaded end. When the nut is turned beyond the torque limit of the weak point, it causes the bolt to break at the weak point. The bolt of the present invention is relatively inexpensive to make and use. It is designed preferably to be used in conjunction with a pressing member and a pipe junction holder for holding a pair of joined pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Jugal K. Malani
  • Patent number: 5722701
    Abstract: An assembly for joining pipes which completely prevents fluid from leaking from connections of pipes when they are joined, in which a seal member is wrapped around connections of pipes disposed longitudinally to one another, a watertight device is placed over this seal member, the watertight device having a pocket which contains alumina cement powder, and a clip is positioned on the outside of the watertight device, the clip fastening the pocket in a circumferential direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Inventor: Sang-min Choi
  • Patent number: 5675871
    Abstract: The invention provides a locating device for locating and holding a prestressed hose clamp on a cylindrical hose having a selected radius of curvature. The device has a resilient C-shaped clamp engaging element having opposed free ends defining a gap, the element being generally cylindrical about a first axis and the gap being smaller than an internal diameter of the element so that the clamp can be pushed through the gap and gripped by the element with radial projections on the clamp extending through the gap. A pair of resilient hose engaging elements are attached to the clamp engaging element and spaced axially spaced with the clamp engaging element between the hose engaging elements which are proportioned to apply a load on the hose contained in the device to bias the hose away from the gap and into contact with the clamp at a location diametrically opposite the radial projections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Assignee: ACD Tridon Inc.
    Inventors: Scott D. Webb, Kevin M. Cradduck, Craig A. Senovich
  • Patent number: 5544922
    Abstract: A wedge assembly restraint, featuring clip stops and a flexible, resilient retainer clip, for restraining a wedge assembly in the clamping block of a pipe junction holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Assignee: EBAA Iron, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis D. Shumard, Michael L. Lundstrom
  • Patent number: 5511826
    Abstract: Mechanically locking sprinkler fittings are provided by this invention for making a fluid connection between irrigation pipes. The sprinkler fittings contain a tubular fitting member having first and second open ends for mating with a pair of irrigation pipes. The tubular fitting member contains a laterally facing orifice for receiving a sprinkler riser and an annular recess located along its surface which corresponds with a mating annular recess on at least a first of the irrigation pipes to form an annular cavity. The fitting also includes a flexible spline inserted into the annular cavity to form a mechanical lock between the first pipe and the tubular fitting member. The sprinkler fittings of this invention are convenient to use, and can be made of lightweight polymeric materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corporation
    Inventors: James Clare, John Himmelberger
  • Patent number: 5509699
    Abstract: Mechanical pipe adapters are provided by this invention which include a gland for fitting around the circumference of a first pipe. The gland includes an annular recess located along its inner diameter and an aperture through a side wall of the gland for communicating with the annular recess. The adapter further includes a flexible spline inserted into the annular recess through the side aperture. The flexible spline forms a mechanical lock between the first pipe and the gland. After mounting the gland to a pipe, such as a PVC pipe, the gland can be thereafter mounted to a flanged end of a pipe, e.g., a cast iron fitting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corporation
    Inventor: John Himmelberger
  • Patent number: 5505499
    Abstract: A pipe coupling for casting into concrete comprising a sleeve having external flanges near its ends for attaching the coupling to formwork and a collar and seal ring mounted on at least one end of the sleeve for sealingly connecting at least one pipe thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: Graham T. Wallbank
  • Patent number: 5476292
    Abstract: A pipe coupling comprises an annular sleeve member arranged in use at a free end thereof to overly an end of a plain ended pipe to be connected by the coupling, the free end of the sleeve member being inclined radially outwardly towards its end; an elastomeric annular sealing gasket disposed at least partly within the inclined free end of the sleeve member and held in place by an annular compression flange member; the compression flange having a skirt portion, axially outwardly, and an axially inwardly extending collar portion radially outwardly overlying the free end of the sleeve member; the gasket including, when in a relaxed condition, an axially outwardly directed rear surface arranged in use to engage an axially inwardly directed face of the annular radially inwardly extending portion of the flange member, a radially inner surface extending generally axially inwardly of the coupling from a gasket heel to a gasket toe, and an inclined surface extending generally between the two above mentioned surfaces o
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Assignee: Victaulic PLC
    Inventor: Brian Harper
  • Patent number: 5398976
    Abstract: A device for providing access to the interstitial region between an inner pipe and an outer pipe which coaxially define the region. The inner pipe has at least one terminal end extending from the outer pipe to leave a portion of the outer wall of the inner pipe exposed to thereby expose the interstitial region. A boot is provided for defining a chamber with a larger end snugly fitting the outer pipe and a small end snugly fitting on the exposed outer wall of the inner pipe. The boot has an access port communicating with the interior of the chamber to provide access to the interstitial region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Assignee: Environ Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael C. Webb
  • Patent number: 5398980
    Abstract: An improved mechanical pipe joint for use in a bell and plain pipe end assembly. The joint includes a gland having a conical cavity for receiving a toothed split ring that coaxially compresses and grips the plain pipe end as the gland is tightened to the bell. The joint is sealed by a compressible gasket positioned between the split ring and the bell. The gland further includes an integrally formed, radially extending shelf for abutting against the split ring and mechanically stopping the gland from being pulled over the split ring during joint assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Assignee: Tyler Pipe Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas D. Hunter, Olin I. Jackson, Minor W. Pannell
  • Patent number: 5340169
    Abstract: A locking device for a system of laid pipes comprises a gasket 2 and one or more assembled components which form a hollow cylinder 4 surrounding and accommodating the gasket, the hollow cylinder incorporating an anchoring groove 8. The gasket is elastic and has a solid body portion 9, an integral annular heel member 10, and a plurality of embedded anchoring inserts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: Pont-A-Mousson S.A.
    Inventor: Klaus Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 5314213
    Abstract: A pipe coupling, comprising a sleeve having at least one end adapted for the insertion of a pipe and being provided with a substantially conically shaped supporting surface for a sealing ring. A compression ring is provided by which the sealing ring may be compressed around the pipe. The sealing ring is composed of a circumferentially compressible, but in cross section rather undeformable annular core, which is more particularly bent of a helical body having substantially circular windings, and a sheath of elastomeric material which forms the actual seal. The sheath completely encloses the annular core both cross sectionally and circumferentially. The supporting surface has a progressively decreasing diameter in the pressing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Georg Fischer N.V.
    Inventors: Aloisius H. M. Heister, Andreas J. L. Nijsen
  • Patent number: 5305903
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device in fuel tanks, preferably for vehicles, said tanks being provided with a mouth socket to which a filler tube is connected so as to have its one end portion projecting into the tank. Between the mouth socket and the filler tube a seal is provided, the latter being formed with a portion grippingly enclosing the mouth edge of the socket and defining, together with the filler tube, an intermediate space allowing oscillation of the filler tube relatively to the socket. A washer is pressed against the filler tube and is formed with a bent-over portion grippingly engaging said portion of the seal. A reinforcement sleeve is positioned inside the filler tube and presses against the inner face of the filler tube. A clamp-joint sleeve is fitted around the mouth socket, enclosing portion of the seal and the washer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Assignee: AB Volvo
    Inventor: Bo Harde
  • Patent number: 5303960
    Abstract: This invention provides an expansion joint that uses a flexible sealing element in conjunction with a packed seal in a manner that allows a reduction in break-away forces and permits continued operation of the joint after a failure of the bellows or bellows attachment point. The expansion arrangement includes a flexible sealing element, usually in form of a bellows, and a containment chamber in communication with the exterior portion of the flexible sealing element or bellows and an interior portion of the packed seal. The containment chamber has an opening that permits relative movement between the ends of the expansion joint and is sealed by the packed seal. In the event of a bellows failure, the packing material acts to restrict or prevent leakage from the containment chamber to the outside environment. The packed seal is made of a combination of materials that provide packing friction coefficient of less than 200 lbs/in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Inventor: John T. Gaughan
  • Patent number: 5232251
    Abstract: This invention provides an expansion joint that uses a flexible sealing element in conjunction with a packed seal in a manner that allows a reduction in break-away forces and permits continued operation of the joint after a failure of the bellows or bellows attachment point. The expansion arrangement includes a flexible sealing element, usually in form of a bellows, and a containment chamber in communication with the exterior portion of the flexible sealing element or bellows and an interior portion of the packed seal. The containment chamber has an opening that permits relative movement between the ends of the expansion joint and is sealed by the packed seal. In the event of a bellows failure, the packing material acts to restrict or prevent leakage from the containment chamber to the outside environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1993
    Inventor: John T. Gaughan
  • Patent number: 5230537
    Abstract: A pipe coupling comprising a sealing gasket to fit over adjacent ends of pipes to be connected end-to-end and a housing which clamps around the gasket, has the housing in the form of a cast metal or alloy band which substantially encircles the gasket and has at its circumferential ends opposed lugs between which a wedge portion of the gasket extends and which are connected by at least one clamping bolt engaged with retaining means, whereby the lugs can be urged towards one another to contract the band onto the gasket. The lugs grip the wedge portion as the band is contracted and prevent the body of the gasket from bulging outwardly between the lugs. Preferably the band is made of a ductile metal or alloy, e.g. ductile iron, and is slightly oval in its free state so that it assumes a substantially true circular form when fully contracted onto the gasket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1993
    Assignee: Glynwed Consumer & Building Products Limited
    Inventor: Christopher Newman
  • Patent number: 5190324
    Abstract: A pipe restraining member comprising a collar member, flanges disposed on the collar member for connecting the collar member to a support, the collar member and the support being adapted cooperatively to encircle a first pipe member, lugs disposed on the collar member for connecting the collar member to a collar assembly encircling a second pipe member, and discrete groups of protrusions extending inwardly from an inside surface of the collar member and adapted to engage an external surface of the first pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Assignee: M&FC Holding Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Edwin A. Bird, Kirby L. Shaddix
  • Patent number: 5150929
    Abstract: A pipe joint consists of a sleeve (2) surrounding a socket chamber (3) for receiving a spigot (5). A gland (9) extends into the socket chamber (3) against a heel portion (12) of a sealing ring (7). Axial movement of the gland (9) forces the sealing ring (7) and causes a leading nose portion (14) of the sealing ring (7) to be deflected radially inwardly by the internal profile of the sleeve (2) against the external surface of the spigot or pipe end (5), thereby forming a seal. The heel portion (12) of the seal ring (7) maintains substantially the same radial position in the socket (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1992
    Assignee: Stanton plc
    Inventor: Cyril B. Greatorex
  • Patent number: 5125702
    Abstract: A housing for a door lock device has an irregular outer perimeter with inside and outside curved corners. A sub housing for the door lock device has a similarly configured outer perimeter coupled to the perimeter of the housing. An O-ring is inserted in a groove in the housing perimeter for sealing the perimeters of the housing and sub-housing. The O-ring has a plurality of spaced gripping portions that have a width greater than the width of the groove before insertion therein for keeping the O-ring from springing out of the groove during assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Ryoichi Fukumoto, Shigeru Hayakawa, Nozomu Torii, Souichiro Okudaira
  • Patent number: 5100183
    Abstract: A pipe coupling for the joining of plain end pipe that includes an annular gasket and a compressible lock ring at each end of the coupling between a tubular middle ring and an annular follower. Bolts extending between the opposite followers are effective when tightened to compress both the gasket and lock ring into their operative relation for sealing and gripping a coupled pipe end, respectively. The follower is comprised of a unitary structure integrally cast to define an internal annular protuberance that juxtaposedly confronts the radially rearward surface of the gasket. Also defined by the follower inward of the protuberance is a central opening at least partially tapered frusto-conically and in which the lock ring is initially supported controllably spaced from the gasket. Tightening of the bolts enables gasket sealing pressure to be achieved about the pipe end sequentially before a completed restraing grip on the pipe end is attained by the lock ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1992
    Assignee: Dresser Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert P. Montesi, Gerald L. Anderson, Phillip E. Frair
  • Patent number: 5071175
    Abstract: A pipe restraining mechanism for use in a pipe retainer gland to secure the gland on a pipe such as PVC pipe and ductile iron pipe including a housing forming a part of the retainer gland and having a pocket therein opening inside of the gland, a wedge operator member on the top wall of the housing, and a pipe gripping wedge in the housing pocket having inside teeth for engagement with the outer surface of a pipe and adapted to be initially mechanically pressed into a pipe surface by the operator member and thereafter fully engaged with the pipe surface responsive to hydraulic pressure in the pipe causing a wedging action with the operator member and thereafter a turning action between the wedge and a housing surface to drive the wedge teeth into the pipe surface and seat the wedge on the pipe surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 10, 1991
    Inventor: Harold Kennedy, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5069490
    Abstract: A coupling for pipes is disclosed which includes a central elongate sleeve into which two pipe ends to be joined are placed, a pair of annular gasket members positioned within the opposite sleeve ends, a pair of annular backup rings positioned longitudinally outwardly of the gasket members, a pair of annular wave springs positioned longitudinally outwardly of the backup rings, a pair of collapsible split ring annular gripping members positioned longitudinally outwardly of the backup rings, a pair of follower members positioned longitudinally outwardly from the wave springs and gripping members, and bolts and nuts engaging the follower to urge the follower members relatively closer together. As force is applied, inward motion of the follower members initially causes partial gasket compression, thereafter causes the wave springs to compress and the backup rings to contact and collapse the gripping members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: December 3, 1991
    Assignee: Coupling Systems, Incorporated
    Inventor: Richard M. Halen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5060989
    Abstract: This pipe joint retaining device has a cylindrical ring concentrically and coaxially engaging a first pipe inserted into an open bell at the end of a second pipe axially aligned with the first pipe. The ring has spaced pairs of flanges extending outwardly and each carrying a pivotable locking lever turnable between open and closed positions. At one end of each lever is a locking screw terminating in a sharp edge to dig into the first pipe when the 10 screw is tightened to turn the lever to closed position. Tapered domed plugs are carried by the ring with one plug disposed between the flanges of each pair thereof in a tapered bore thereat. The plug has a sharp edge which pierces the first pipe when the locking screw is tightened to force the lever into closed position. Each lever has an undercut forward section which cantilevers over the open bell; and a holding screw carried by the forward section of the lever contacts the bell to hold it in place on the first pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Assignee: Bio-Jet Corporation
    Inventors: Theodore A. Gallucci, Norman R. Doherty
  • Patent number: 5060986
    Abstract: A sleeve adapter (S) for locating a throughpipe (24) in a structural member (18). The sleeve adapter (S) comprises an annular apertured hub (2) having a central axis .alpha., a first annular surface (4) adjacent a first face of the hub (2) sloping inwardly toward the axis, a second annular surface (8) adjacent a second face of the hub (2), and a third annular surface (12) intermediate the first (4) and second (8) surfaces of a smaller diameter than the second annular surface (8). The adapter (S) also comprises a mechanical joint gasket (6) engaging the first annular surface (4) which locates a throughpipe (24) concentric with the central axis, a push-on gasket (10) engaging the second annular surface (8) which locates a sleeve pipe (14) concentric with the central axis, and a pressure device for urging the mechanical joint gasket (6) against the first annular surface (4) and the throughpipe (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Assignee: Water Works Supply Corporation
    Inventor: William Carter
  • Patent number: 5056755
    Abstract: A valve is disclosed herein having an open-ended passageway with a movable gate inbetween its opposite ends for selectively opening and closing the passageway. The opposite valve ends defining the passageway include a threaded fitting or cap carried on a valve body defining a tapered gland occupied by a frustro-conical resilient seal cooperating with the gland to seal between a conduit and the valve body. The valve body is adapted for installation in a situation joining opposing ends of separated conduit or pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 15, 1991
    Inventors: Young H. Jang, Joseph A. Francisco
  • Patent number: 4989904
    Abstract: A connector for use in connecting a push-on bell-type pipe joint together which comprises two legs positioned at right angles to each other, one of which may be welded to the surface of the male member and the other of which may be welded to the edge of the bell of the female member, the leg attached to the male member being rotated so that the other leg being attached to the female member will readily engage the female member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1991
    Inventor: Paul V. Metcalfe
  • Patent number: 4984308
    Abstract: A toilet sealing ring provides a connection and seal for a toilet and its associated drain pipe utilizing a self-aligning annular elastomeric gasket with a cylindrical upper wall which slides inside an inner ring and a lower beveled surface which mates an outer ring inner beveled surface, and, when compressed between the inner ring and the outer ring, forms a moisture tight seal between the toilet, the toilet sealing ring, and the drain pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 15, 1991
    Inventor: Victor H. Handal
  • Patent number: 4976457
    Abstract: A sleeve adapter (S) for locating a throughpipe (24) in a structural member (18). The sleeve adapter (S) comprises an annular apertured hub (2) having a central axis .alpha., a first annular surface (4) adjacent a first face of the hub (2) sloping inwardly toward the axis, a second annular surface (8) adjacent a second face of the hub (2), and a third annular surface (12) intermediate the first (4) and second (8) surfaces of a smaller diameter than the second annular surface (8). The adapter (S) also comprises a mechanical joint gasket (6) engaging the first annular surface (4) which locates a throughpipe (24) concentric with the central axis, a push-on gasket (10) engaging the second annular surface (8) which locates a sleeve pipe (14) concentric with the central axis, and a pressure means for urging the mechanical joint gasket (6) against the first annular surface (4) and the throughpipe (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 11, 1990
    Assignee: Water Works Supply Corporation
    Inventor: William Carter
  • Patent number: 4962958
    Abstract: A lining laminate for lining line pipes to be connected to each other comprises a woven fabric impregnated with a liquid plasticizer, a pressure sensitive adhesive layer and a lining tube. This lining laminate is adhered to inner peripheral surfaces of connected line pipes, and further a pressure sensitive adhesive is filled in an annular space produced in an expansion joint portion for connecting line pipes to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: October 16, 1990
    Inventor: Norio Takei
  • Patent number: 4940259
    Abstract: Pipe joint connections with set screws that have swivel-mounted feet. Such set screws when used with such connections flexibly and tenaciously retain pipe sections in the connections in the same manner that a toy "chinese puzzle" woven straw tube retains a person's fingers. The larger faces of such set screw feet allow the set screws to grip the pipe section with considerably less torque than that required by conventional set screws. Such connections form a flexible, strong coupling that maintains its holding power despite changes in pipe position and environmental factors such as temperature and pressure. Such connections are particularly well suited for joining polyvinyl chloride pipe sections to mechanical joint pipe fittings, valves and hydrants, although they are also extremely effective in joining conventional mechanical joint metal pipe sections to such attachments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1989
    Date of Patent: July 10, 1990
    Assignee: Standard International, Inc.
    Inventor: James H. Williams
  • Patent number: 4936609
    Abstract: A connector for use in connecting a push-on mechanical bell-type pipe joint or butt-type joint together which comprises two legs positioned at right angles to each other, one of which may be welded to the surface of the male member and the other of which may be welded to the edge of the gland holding the gasket used in place, the leg attached to the male member being rotated so that the other leg being attached to the gland will readily engage the gland.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1989
    Date of Patent: June 26, 1990
    Inventor: Paul V. Metcalfe
  • Patent number: 4896903
    Abstract: A segmented retainer gland assembly for holding pipe joints and the like together, including at least two gland segments in the shape of a circular arc forming together a circular gland for securing around a circular pipe, each of the segments having end flanges projecting substantially perpendicular to one side face of the gland segment, a clamping bracket having an inside face provided with a recess sized and shaped to receive the two end segment end flanges when adjacent ends of the gland segments are positioned together, each of the clamping brackets and gland segments having bolt holes and each of the clamping brackets having corresponding bolt holes which align with the bolt holes in the gland segments when the segments are positioned together, and bolts and nuts for securing the clamping brackets on the gland segments to hold the segments together at the end flanges to form a circular gland when the flanges are assembled together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1990
    Assignee: EBAA Iron Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis D. Shumard