Installing Liner Patents (Class 405/184.2)
  • Patent number: 11674631
    Abstract: A method of joining together liner sections within a polymer-lined pipe energises an induction coil inside the pipe to spot-heat part of a circumferential interface between the liner sections. This melts and fuses the polymer material locally. The induction coil is then moved along the interface to heat other parts of the interface successively above the melting temperature. An apparatus for performing the method has a power supply for energising the induction coil and a drive system for moving the energised induction coil relative to a body of the apparatus. The apparatus may be configured as a carriage that is movable along the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Acergy France SAS
    Inventor: Gregory Alexandre Toguyeni
  • Patent number: 11639766
    Abstract: Provided is a patch for a fluid line, a system employing a fluid line, and a method for sealing a fluid line. The fluid line, in one aspect, includes a tubular, and a sleeve of expandable metal positioned about the tubular, the sleeve of expandable metal comprising a metal configured to expand in response to hydrolysis and thereby seal a leaking section of a fluid line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Linley Fripp, Shanu Thottungal Eldho
  • Patent number: 11566742
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus or equipment and systems for lining conduits, e.g., preferably subterranean pipelines and passageways, such as sewers, with a liner impregnated with a curable resin in order to secure the conduit against ingress or egress of liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: Moray Group, LLC
    Inventor: Kevan Taylor
  • Patent number: 11566745
    Abstract: A method of joining together liner sections within a polymer-lined pipe energises an induction coil inside the pipe to spot-heat part of a circumferential interface between the liner sections. This melts and fuses the polymer material locally. The induction coil is then moved along the interface to heat other parts of the interface successively above the melting temperature. An apparatus for performing the method has a power supply for energising the induction coil and a drive system for moving the energised induction coil relative to a body of the apparatus. The apparatus may be configured as a carriage that is movable along the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: ACERGY FRANCE SAS
    Inventor: Gregory Alexandre Toguyeni
  • Patent number: 11524446
    Abstract: A method for monitoring a curing process of a cured-in-place pipe is disclosed. The method includes affixing a plurality of sensors to a resin layer of a liner, and determining a curing profile corresponding to at least the resin layer, the curing profile including a threshold curing value. The method further includes sensing, using the plurality of sensors, real-time data indicative of at least one curing parameter. Additionally, the method includes comparing the real-time data from each sensor to the threshold curing value, and outputting an alert upon the real-time data meeting or exceeding the threshold curing value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Assignee: Innovations Amplified, LLC
    Inventor: Erik C. Morris
  • Patent number: 11466806
    Abstract: The invention relates to: a device for curing resin-soaked lining sleeves with energy-rich radiation, comprising at least one radiation source for generating energy-rich radiation for curing a lining sleeve, at least one camera for capturing an image sequence of an environment of the device, and at least one input device, in particular provided separately from the device, wherein a capturing region and/or a display region of the camera is/can be adjusted by a user by means of the input device, and wherein an adjustment of the capturing region of the camera occurs via a movement of at least one part of the camera and/or occurs by means of an electronic image-processing device, which is designed and configured to adjust at least one camera parameter in accordance with an adjusted display region; and a use for a device of this type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: SML VERWALTUNGS GMBH
    Inventors: Herbert Wind, Christian Noll
  • Patent number: 11371324
    Abstract: A method of lining a tube using a spoolable liner includes connecting a connector to a distal end of the spoolable liner. The connector and spoolable liner are inserted into the tube and are advanced to a tube engagement point. A distal connection is formed between the spoolable liner and the tube by attaching the connector to an engagement mechanism at the tube engagement point. A proximal end of the spoolable liner is established and a proximal connection is formed between the proximal end and the tube. The spoolable liner is plugged with a deployable plug in a vicinity of the distal end and with a termination in a vicinity of the proximal end. An interior area is filled with a fluid such that the fluid expands the spoolable liner against an interior wall of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Assignee: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventors: Wael O. Badeghaish, Mohamed N. Noui-Mehidi
  • Patent number: 11148352
    Abstract: A pipe-forming apparatus with which a spiral pipe can be formed using a simple configuration without an inner periphery restriction body. A driving part (10) of a pipe-forming apparatus (3) presses a following strip portion (92) toward a pipe end portion (91e) of a preceding spiral pipe portion (91) obliquely with respect to a machine-height direction HD. A pipe end guide is constrained in a machine-width direction WD with respect to the pipe end portion, and slidably engaged in a propelling longitudinal direction LD. A pressing force for the following strip portion provides a fitting force between the following strip portion and the pipe end portion, and a propelling force for forward propulsion. A pipe is formed in a state where a part other than a partial part at which the pipe-forming apparatus is provided in a circumferential direction of the pipe end portion is released from the pipe-forming apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: SEKISUI CHEMICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Sugahara, Tatsurou Baba, Naoya Tsuda, Masahiro Yamasaki
  • Patent number: 10744702
    Abstract: A curl-forming apparatus (1) includes: a main body (20) configured to deform a profile strip (100); and a support body (3) configured to support the main body (20) in a holding unit (4) for the profile strip (100). The profile strip (100) is helically wound on an inside of the holding unit (4). The main body (20) is disposed in a hollow part of the holding unit (4) and is configured to draw and deform the profile strip (100) inside the holding unit (4). The support body (3) is rotatable relative to the holding unit (4), and is configured to rotate about an axis of the holding unit (4) in synchronization with the main body (20) that draws the profile strip (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: SEKISUI CHEMICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Keita Kuse, Jun Tsuda, Akihiko Takaya, Tatsurou Baba
  • Patent number: 10662638
    Abstract: The invention relates to an assembly for incorporating into a solidified construction element, to a construction element comprising such an assembly, and to a method for producing said construction element. According to the invention, the assembly comprises an electronic system (1), said system (1) comprising a chip. It is characterised in that it also comprises a support part (2) provided with a positioning element (3) for said system (1) on one (4) of the so-called system-receiving faces thereof, and on the face (5) opposing said receiving face (4), a distinctive sign for locating the electronic system, which is visible from outside the construction element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2020
    Inventor: Rolland Melet
  • Patent number: 10514125
    Abstract: An underground pipe repair device is for a joint between a service pipe and a branch pipe. The underground pipe repair device may include a T-shaped joint liner having a base portion extending laterally in the service pipe, and an arm portion extending vertically into the branch pipe, and a retention device embedded in the base portion adjacent an opening in the branch pipe. The underground pipe repair device may include an alignment device to be coupled to the retention device, and a service pipe liner extending in the service pipe and under the T-shaped joint liner and the alignment device. The alignment device extending vertically into the service pipe so that the service pipe liner has a radial bump about the opening in the branch pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2019
    Assignee: InnerCure Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Jerold L Botts
  • Patent number: 10309575
    Abstract: An underground pipe repair device is for a joint between a service pipe and a branch pipe. The underground pipe repair device may include a first T-shaped joint liner having a base portion extending laterally in the service pipe, and an arm portion extending vertically into the branch pipe. The underground pipe repair device may include a first annular spacer aligned with an opening in the branch pipe and being coupled to an underside of the first T-shaped joint liner, a second annular spacer aligned with the opening in the branch pipe and being coupled to the underside of the first T-shaped joint liner, the first annular spacer being radially within the second annular spacer, and a third annular spacer aligned with the opening in the branch pipe and being coupled to the underside of the first T-shaped joint liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: Inner Cure Technologies
    Inventor: Jerold L Botts
  • Patent number: 9523457
    Abstract: An apparatus that accelerates curing of resin in a liner for a buried pipe includes a lining assembly connected to a pressurized fluid source. One embodiment includes an inversion cap having an inversion port, a curing port and a drainage port. The apparatus also includes a manifold having an outlet, a first inlet in valved fluid communication with a heated fluid source, a second inlet in valved fluid communication with a pressurized fluid source and a third inlet in valved fluid communication with the drainage port. While heated fluid enters the first end of the assembly via the manifold, a release fitting which allows fluids to escape through the second end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: Perma-Liner Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald Scott D'Hulster, James Gould
  • Patent number: 9371943
    Abstract: A process for lining a metal pipeline, which process generally utilizes thermoplastic fluoropolymer pipe liner Also, a pipeline system that includes at least two coaxial pipes, an outer metal pipe and inner thermoplastic fluoropolymer pipe. The thermoplastic fluoropolymer pipe/pipe liner is made from a composition that generally includes from 10% to 60% by weight of at least one vinylidene fluoride (VDF) homopolymer, from 40% to 90% by weight of at least one VDF copolymer comprising from 2% to 15% by moles of recurring units derived from at least one other fluorinated comonomer (F), and optionally at least one plasticizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: SOLVAY SPECIALTY POLYMERS ITALY S.P.A.
    Inventors: Nicasio Messina, Marco Mirenda, Giambattista Besana, Julio A. Abusleme, RĂ©gis Faig
  • Patent number: 9272322
    Abstract: A feeding device (10) comprises: a support frame (12); an annular-shaped rotary frame (13); paired feeding rollers (15, 161) for nipping a strip-shaped member therebetween; a rotating motor (M1) for rotating the rotating frame (13); a feeding motor (M2) for rotating at least one (15) of the feeding rollers; and a driving force transmission mechanism (17) comprising a rotatable member relatively rotatable with respect to the rotating frame (13). The rotating frame (13) is rotated by driving of the rotating motor (M1) through a roller or a gear, and the at least one feeding roller (15) is rotated by the feeding motor (M2) through the driving force transmission mechanism (17), so that the strip-shaped member (100) is fed out in the form of a given helical configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: SEKISUI CHEMICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jun Tsuda, Toshio Yamane, Tomonori Yamaji
  • Patent number: 9175798
    Abstract: A method for refurbishing an existing expandable host pipe. An expansion tool is adapted to generate isolated outward radial force when in expansion mode. The expansion tool is moved along a path inside the host pipe, stopping at stations on the way. At each station, responsive to isolated outward radial force from the expansion tool, the unobstructed interior diameter of the host pipe is increased via non-destructive plastic deformation of the interior wall. Once the entire host pipe is expanded in this fashion, a new rigid liner pipe is inserted inside the host pipe to operationally replace the host pipe. Grout is deployed in the annular space between liner pipe and host pipe. Expansion of the host pipe via non-destructive plastic deformation optimizes the refurbishment job and enables the original host pipe, as expanded, to contribute structurally to the refurbished pipe system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2015
    Assignee: Titan CMP Solutions LLC
    Inventor: Roger W. Thompson
  • Patent number: 9016323
    Abstract: A pipeline regeneration pipe, with which necessary strength can be ensured by way of the inserted regeneration pipe itself without the necessity of grouting, includes an inner wound flexible resin layer 5d which constitutes the inner layer of a straight pipe part 5b, an outer wound flexible resin layer 5e laminated on the outer surface of the inner wound flexible resin layer and constitutes the outer layer of the straight pipe part, and a protruded rim part 5c helically formed on the outer surface of the outer wound flexible resin layer, the protruded rim part 5c being configured by a rigid-resin core 5g helically wound, and a core-covering part 5f integrated with the outer wound flexible resin layer so as to surround the rigid-resin core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Kanaflex Corporation
    Inventor: Shigeki Kanao
  • Patent number: 8978708
    Abstract: A tubular liner for rehabilitating sewers has a reinforcing layer being expandable in the circumferential direction and formed of fiber rovings and impregnated with a curable reactive resin. The tubular liner has an outer tubular film which encloses the reinforcing layer and is formed of a material that can be expanded radially. A longitudinal pull strap is provided and absorbs the tensile forces acting on the tubular liner when the tubular liner is inserted into the sewer. The tubular film has a laminated nonwoven layer on the side facing the reinforcing layer. The longitudinal pull strap is located between the nonwoven layer and the reinforcing layer and is in immediate contact with the outer side of the reinforcing layer and the nonwoven layer. The longitudinal pull strap has a width of less than 50% of a length of the outer circumference of the reinforcing layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Brandenburger Patentverwertung GBR
    Inventors: Tim Brandenburger, Philipp Bergmann, Peter Duttenhoefer
  • Publication number: 20150063921
    Abstract: A packer apparatus includes a first spindle in axial moveable relation with a second spindle. The first spindle includes a pressure plate and the second spindle includes a base plate. A seal plate is disposed between the pressure and base plates. A brake is disposed between the pressure and seal plates. An elastomeric expansion boot is disposed between the seal and base plates. The pressure plate is configured to be actuated by fluid pressure within the pipeline to move the first spindle axially toward the second spindle from a first position to a second position. In the second position, the first spindle causes: the brake to move radially outward into engagement with an inner surface of the pipeline; and the seal plate to move axially toward the base plate to axially compress and radially expand the expansion boot into engagement with the inner surface of the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Ray Lovett, Aimee Kathleen Greening
  • Publication number: 20150063920
    Abstract: A wet buckle packer includes a first disk and a second disk offset from and axially aligned with the first disk. A mandrel, elastomeric expansion boot, and brake are disposed between and axially aligned with the first and second disks. The mandrel includes a tapered outer surface and the brake includes a tapered inner surface abutting the tapered inner surface of the mandrel. The first disk is configured to move axially toward the second disk from a first position to a second position. In the second position, the first disk causes: the expansion boot to compress axially and expand radially into engagement with an inner surface of the pipeline; and the tapered inner surface of the brake to move axially along the tapered outer surface of the stationary mandrel to cause the brake to move radially outward into engagement with the inner surface of the pipeline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven Ray Lovett, Aimee Kathleen Greening
  • Patent number: 8939679
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mobile pipe lining apparatus for installing strip lining material into a host pipe. The apparatus comprises a lining machine for receiving a feed of strip lining material and placing it in a host pipe to form a new pipe lining, a carriage attached to the lining machine such that the full weight of the lining machine is borne by the carriage, and adjusting means for adjusting a position of the lining machine relative to the carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kevin Andrews, Hiroshi Sugahara
  • Patent number: 8905675
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a mechanically lined pipe (MLP) having an outer pipe and an inner liner comprising at least the steps of: (a) forming the outer pipe as a single length; (b) forming an inner liner former being wholly or substantially the same length as the outer pipe of step (a); (c) locating the inner liner former of step (b) within the outer pipe; and (d) expanding the inner liner former within the outer pipe to form the MLP.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Technip France
    Inventors: Daniel Bertaso, John Hamilton, Sylvain Denniel, Brett Howard, Tomasz Tkaczyk, Aurélien Pepin
  • Publication number: 20140356074
    Abstract: A method of reinforcing existing underground water conduits to resist earthquakes and landslides and a reinforcement structural device adapted for insertion into underground water conduits without having to excavate are disclosed. The reinforcement structural device consists of a seamless woven tubular sheath impregnated with a hardening resin which is adapted for insertion into a network of underground water conduits without the need to excavate. The seamless woven tubular sheath consists of continuous longitudinal fiber warp yarn providing tensile strength along the longitudinal axis of the woven tubular sheath and spiralling circumferential fiber filling yarn providing tensile strength around the wall of the woven tubular sheath.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Inventors: Martin BUREAU, Gilles GAGNON, Michael Davison, Benoît CÔTÉ
  • Publication number: 20140341655
    Abstract: A manhole liner and a method of using the same are provided. The manhole liner is sized substantially equally to the largest diameter of the manhole, so that the liner does not have to stretch to be pressed against the manhole wall. Additionally, the liner is impregnated with a resinous material capable of curing and hardening. A bladder, preferably stretchable circumferentially and having a diameter less than the smallest diameter of the manhole, is inserted into the liner. The bladder is expanded to press the liner against the wall of the manhole to dispense resinous material from the liner, while the liner is able to fold over itself in areas having a diameter less than the original diameter of the liner. Because the bladder stretches to produce a smooth outside surface, the resinous material will migrate to areas in the folds and will cure with a smooth interior surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2014
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140334883
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for repairing a manhole. The wall of the manhole is lined with a liner to form a new wall. The liner includes a resin that cures to form the new wall that is similar to the repaired wall. Embedded in the liner is a wireless data transfer mechanism that includes a transmitter, such as a radio-frequency identification (RFID). The RFID transmits identification information about the liner or the repaired wall. The transmitter may be capable of data entry in the field or may be otherwise field-programmable and further capable of transmitting at least one physical characteristic. Examples of physical characteristics may include temperature, pressure, chemical reactions, flow within the manhole, and the like. Additional transmitters may be used along the length of the manhole to determine characteristics at multiple locations, with each additional transmitter including the same or different sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, JR.
  • Patent number: 8869839
    Abstract: An device and method for repairing the junction of a main pipe line and a lateral pipe. The device uses a series of independently controlled bladders to adjust the timing and pressure exerted by the bladders on the pipes. The device also uses a liner assembly of resin absorbent material is formed, with a tubular lateral liner connected to a concentric circular main liner. The liner also includes an opening to facilitate loading of the liner in the device. Upon loading the bladders and resin-embedded liner into a train, the device is positioned and the bladders independently inflated, either concurrently or in sequence, installing the liner assembly onto the pipe. Once the resin is cured, the bladder assembly and launcher are removed from the sewer pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Perma-Liner Industries, LLC
    Inventor: Gerald Scott D'Hulster
  • Publication number: 20140314492
    Abstract: A lock block for attaching to a diameter-reduced pipe liner pulled through a host pipe which braces the pipe liner and inhibits it from fully retreating into the host pipe when longitudinal tension is reduced and the pipe liner experiences length reduction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Inventor: James H. Blasczyk
  • Publication number: 20140270969
    Abstract: Systems and methods for pulling a pipe liner through a host pipe comprising a pulling head with a number of fingers having flexion points which move to a closed position under towing pressure to thread a pipe liner through a host pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: James H. Blasczyk
  • Publication number: 20140270968
    Abstract: A method and system for dispensing a material through a delivery apparatus is provided. The material initially comprises or is manipulated to comprise a low viscosity. The material either can comprise a curable material or can comprise initiators, which can be activated to raise the viscosity at a later time and position. The low viscosity material is moved through the delivery apparatus for a relatively long distance using low energy. Upon nearing an end use application, the material and/or initiators can be activated by a curing agent, such as a light or heat source, such that the viscosity of the material be raised prior to the end use application thereof. Therefore, the present invention provides a method and system for moving a material normally having a higher viscosity a long distance requiring lower energy and pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Larry W. Kiest, JR., Jason M. Matheny
  • Patent number: 8807873
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for repairing a manhole. The wall of the manhole is lined with a liner to form a new wall. The liner includes a resin that cures to form the new wall that is similar to the repaired wall. Embedded in the liner is a wireless data transfer mechanism that includes a transmitter, such as a radio-frequency identification (RFID). The RFID transmits identification information about the liner or the repaired wall. The transmitter may be capable of data entry in the field or may be otherwise field-programmable and further capable of transmitting at least one physical characteristic. Examples of physical characteristics may include temperature, pressure, chemical reactions, flow within the manhole, and the like. Additional transmitters may be used along the length of the manhole to determine characteristics at multiple locations, with each additional transmitter including the same or different sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8801329
    Abstract: One invention relates to a liner (5) for repairing the connection between a main pipeline (100) and a lateral pipe (200). The liner (5) includes a main pipeline lining part (12) that in use forms a tubular portion for lining an inner circumferential portion of the main pipeline (100) and a lateral pipe lining part (14) that in use forms a tubular portion for lining an inner circumferential portion of the lateral pipe (200). Located between the lateral pipe lining part (12) and the main pipe lining part (14) there is a transition zone (16) that in use is arranged to line a junction zone (150) between the main pipeline (100) and the lateral pipe (200). The transition zone (16) of the liner (5) is formed integrally with the main pipeline lining part (12) and the lateral pipe lining part (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Interflow Holdings Pty Limited
    Inventors: Ian Bateman, Kyle Twidale
  • Publication number: 20140169886
    Abstract: A pivot drive, a pivot, a cutter drive, a cutting head, and a camera are mounted to a base, and a remote control system operates the pivot drive to pivot the cutter drive from a stored to a use position, operates the cutter drive to rotationally drive the cutting head, and operates the camera to provide images of the cutting head used to cut out blockages at lateral connections of relined pipes. The camera and the cutting head are positioned in a spaced apart relationship facing each other, with the base extending beyond the cutting head sufficiently to provide this spacing. Optionally, the camera is mounted to a trailing portion of the base and the cutter drive is mounted to a leading portion, with control lines for the pivot and cutter drives routed back past but retained separated from the cutting head to avoid damage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventor: Neil ROGERS
  • Patent number: 8752589
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a method and means for repairing the wall of a manhole wherein a material capable of curing and hardening is adhered to the wall. An expandable bladder engages the curable and hardenable material and presses against and smoothes the material. The bladder may be chemically bonded to the curable and hardenable material or it may be mechanically bonded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140154408
    Abstract: Economical heavy concrete weight coating is used as a weight coating for submarine pipes. The developed economical heavy concrete weight includes steel slag and iron ore as aggregate. Steel slag can contain iron and thus have a higher density than some other types of slag. By supplementing the steel slag with iron ore as aggregate, the economical heavy concrete weight coating can have a higher density than a coating having just slag. Economical heavy concrete weight coating can have a density greater than 190 pcf.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicants: King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabian Oil Company
    Inventors: Mohammed Al-Mehthel, Mohammed Maslehuddin, Bakr Hammad, Alaeddin A. Al-Sharif, Mohammed Ibrahim
  • Patent number: 8739809
    Abstract: The present invention includes a device and method for reinforcing the portions of an inflation bladder not contained by a liner in pipeline renewal applications. A liner/bladder assembly is provided wherein the liner is positioned relative to the bladder such that a portion of the bladder having a greater wall thickness extends beyond the ends of the liner. The present invention also includes a device and method for repairing the junction of a main pipe and the lateral pipe with bladders reinforced in areas unconstrained by the liners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8721216
    Abstract: A method of repairing and renewing a manhole chimney utilizes a circumferentially stretchable liner sleeve which is inserted into the manhole and pressed by an inflatable bladder into engagement with the walls of the manhole chimney. The sleeve is coated with an uncured resin, which is allowed to cure as the sleeve is pressed against the chimney walls, thereby attaching the sleeve to the walls of the manhole chimney. The stretchable sleeve eliminates air spaces between the sleeve and the chimney walls, and precludes formation of undesirable folds in the sleeve. The sleeve stretches circumferentially up to 150% of its unstretched diameter, while having a substantially unstretchable length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignees: LMK Enterprises, Inc., O'Sullivan Trenchless Installation Services
    Inventors: Larry W. Kiest, Jr., Jason Bartlett, Thomas M. O'Sullivan, III, Raymond L. Greek, Timothy L. Back, Donald L. Betzold
  • Patent number: 8689835
    Abstract: A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8684628
    Abstract: The winding apparatus has a forming frame which goes inside an underground damaged pipe, and a rail which regulates the circumference track of a forming frame as the joint mechanism interlocks adjacent portions of a plastic strips. The forming frame has a plurality of guides that are connected extend along with a rail. Each guide contains a guide roller which can rotate freely about an end of the corresponding roller shaft. Each guide roller has an outside large diameter part and an inside small diameter part. The rail has a guide groove portion for the large diameter part of a guide roller at each edge of a course in a width direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Roy Streatfield, Akitoshi Ohira
  • Patent number: 8678037
    Abstract: A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8678043
    Abstract: A method for repairing and strengthening pipes by creating a structural reinforced composite liner within the existing pipe. The liner is created by helically winding a tensile reinforcement material on the inside wall of a pipe and encapsulating it in a hardening matrix material. The reinforcement material is helically wound around the inside wall of the pipe by an installation device. The installation device is configured to relieve and/or prevent the development of torsional stress in the reinforcement material that is created by the act of helically winding it onto the inside wall of a pipe, allowing the reinforcement material to lay flat against the pipe wall without twisting or buckling. The structural reinforced composite can be configured to supplement the strength of the existing pipe or to function as a stand-alone pipe within the existing pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Structural Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter H. Emmons, John R. Crigler, Michael R. Moussa, Dan A. Dock, Scott V. Bauer, Nathan D. Sauer
  • Publication number: 20140079488
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for rehabilitating an underground water conduit having at least one service entrance including a plug having a light emitter which is responsive to the presence of an electromagnetic field, wherein the at least one service entrance is plugged with the plug and a semi-transparent membrane lining the internal surface of the underground water conduit thereby covering the plug. A drilling head is disposed on a body moveable within the underground water conduit, the drill head having a drill bit and a coil inductor concentric with the drill bit. The coil inductor is adapted to generate an electromagnetic field near the drilling head, wherein the light emitter of the plug is adapted to be turned on by the electromagnetic field emitted by the coil inductor to allow visual alignment of the drill bit with the light emitted by the light emitter through the semi-transparent membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: Sanexen Environmental Services Inc.
    Inventors: Gilles GAGNON, Charles GERVAIS-DUMONT, Jason DUFF, Pierre-Hugues LANNEVILLE-VEZINA
  • Patent number: 8667991
    Abstract: A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8667992
    Abstract: A liner tube is provided for repairing either a single pipe line or a main pipe line having a lateral pipe line connected thereto. The liner tube assembly includes a liner tube impregnated with a liquid material capable of curing and hardening. The liner tube includes a gasket or band positioned about the juncture of the pipe lines. The gasket or bands form a tight seal between the liner tube and the pipe line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8651145
    Abstract: A kit, apparatus, and method for sealing a junction between a manhole and a pipe within a sewer system are provided. In a first embodiment, the end of a pipe adjacent a manhole is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material. The tubular sleeve is held in place by a mechanical fastener and a pipe liner is installed or otherwise placed through the tubular sleeve and against the wall of the pipe. In a second embodiment, a majority of the area surrounding a junction of a pipe and a manhole is sealed by the use of a tubular sleeve made of a hydrophilic material including a flange portion, a mechanical fastener, a pipe liner, and a manhole liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8640737
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for sealing pipes or underground structures is provided. In one embodiment, the end of a pipe is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a sealing member. The sealing member may be a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, a compressible material, or a paste. The sealing member is held in place by a mechanical fastener and a liner is installed adjacent the sealing member and against the wall of the pipe or other structure to be sealed. In another embodiment, a manhole is sealed by the use of a sealing member, a mechanical fastener, and a manhole liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20140030026
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for repairing a manhole. The wall of the manhole is lined with a liner to form a new wall. The liner includes a resin that cures to form the new wall that is similar to the repaired wall. Embedded in the liner is a wireless data transfer mechanism that includes a transmitter, such as a radio-frequency identification (RFID). The RFID transmits identification information about the liner or the repaired wall. The transmitter may be capable of data entry in the field or may be otherwise field-programmable and further capable of transmitting at least one physical characteristic. Examples of physical characteristics may include temperature, pressure, chemical reactions, flow within the manhole, and the like. Additional transmitters may be used along the length of the manhole to determine characteristics at multiple locations, with each additional transmitter including the same or different sensors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: LMK TECHNOLOGIES LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, JR.
  • Patent number: 8636036
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for sealing pipes. In one embodiment, the end of a pipe is sealed by the use of a pipe liner and a sealing member. The sealing member may be a hydrophilic material, a hydrophobic material, a compressible material, or a paste, and may also be a unitary member or formed from a sheet of material. The sealing member is held in place by a mechanical fastener and a liner is installed adjacent the sealing member and against the wall of the pipe or other structure to be sealed. The mechanical fastener aids in holding the sealing member in place at the end of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: LMK Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Larry W. Kiest, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20130330130
    Abstract: Pusher apparatus and a method of using the apparatus inserts a flexible liner into an in-situ pipe. At least a pair of contra-rotating resilient drive assemblies, having a nip therebetween, drive the liner into the pipe. A guide tube can extend between the drive assemblies and the pipe. A pull head can be affixed to a leading end of the liner and adapted for sealing within a bore of the pipe and pressured fluid can be applied to pull a leading end of the liner into the pipe while the pusher pushes. The contra-rotating resilient drive assemblies can be one or more pair of opposing wheels or opposing tracks. Track assemblies can be mounted to a frame which is movable on rails and restrained with a load cell for measuring reactive forces while pushing. The rails can be angled for aligning the nip with the pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2013
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Chris GOSS
  • Publication number: 20130330131
    Abstract: A plastic envelope element (1) for an underwater pipeline comprises at least one spring portion (5, 6) manufactured integrally with the envelope element. The envelope element is modular in circumferential direction of the pipeline. The spring portion is at least formed by a wall portion of the envelope element in the relaxed condition projecting on the inner side (3) of the envelope element. In its tensioned condition, the spring portion does not project, or projects to a lesser extent than in the relaxed condition, on the inner side of the envelope element, such that in its fitted condition the spring portion presses under its spring force against the pipeline. The projecting wall portion extends bridgingly between two mutually parallel and mutually spaced hinge edges of the projecting wall portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: LANKHORST ENGINEERED PRODUCTS B.V.
    Inventor: Karst Meijer
  • Patent number: 8596917
    Abstract: A method for repairing and strengthening pipes by creating a structural reinforced composite liner within the existing pipe. The liner is created by helically winding a tensile reinforcement material on the inside wall of a pipe and encapsulating it in a hardening matrix material. The reinforcement material is helically wound around the inside wall of the pipe by an installation device. The installation device is configured to relieve and/or prevent the development of torsional stress in the reinforcement material that is created by the act of helically winding it onto the inside wall of a pipe, allowing the reinforcement material to lay flat against the pipe wall without twisting or buckling. The structural reinforced composite can be configured to supplement the strength of the existing pipe or to function as a stand-alone pipe within the existing pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Structural Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter H. Emmons, John R. Crigler, Michael R. Moussa, Dan A. Dock, Scott V. Bauer, Nathan D. Sauer