Pipe Patents (Class 73/49.5)
  • Publication number: 20120137752
    Abstract: Hydrotesting fluid compositions including stable populations of corrosion reducing microbes, where the populations are is sufficient to reduce or eliminate microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicants: WEATHERFORD/LAMB, INC.
    Inventor: Michael Morrow
  • Patent number: 8186202
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing tubing to a device, the apparatus including: a first seal configured to seal the tubing to the device, the first seal having a device side in contact with the device and an interior side opposite the device side; a test sleeve configured to surround the first seal and to seal to the device using a second seal; a third seal disposed at the test sleeve and configured to seal the tubing to the test sleeve wherein the test sleeve, the second seal, and the third seal form a pressure boundary about the first seal; a test port disposed at the test sleeve, the test port being in communication with seals, wherein the test port is configured to connect to a seal test device to test the integrity of the seals in communication with the test port; and a plug configured to seal the test port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Louis F. Lafleur, Ralph Joseph Robert, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8183872
    Abstract: A hose fault detection system includes a hose assembly and a fault detector. The hose assembly includes a first conductive layer, second conductive layer, and an intermediate layer that is disposed between the first and second conductive layers. Each of the first and second conductive layers has an electrical characteristic. The fault detector is configured for detecting an electrical change based on the electrical characteristic to signify a potential impending failure of at least one of the first and second conductive layers of the hose. The fault detector includes a sensing device, a recording device and a digital processor. The sensing device is in electrical communication with the first and second conductive layers to measure the electrical characteristic. The recording device is configured for storing the measured electrical characteristic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Jason Dennis Stark
  • Publication number: 20120055237
    Abstract: Method for dewatering, pressure testing, hydrotreating, suppressing methane hydrate formation and suppressing solution freezing point in pipeline operations have been disclosed, where the solution used in the operations includes an effective amount of a metal formate salt. The metal formate salt solutions have a low viscosity, have a high density, have a low metals corrosivity, are non-volatile, have a low solubility in hydrocarbons, are readily biodegradable, have a low toxicity, are non-hazardous, have a low environmental impact, have a freezing point depression property forming water/formate eutectic point mixtures, and have a water-structuring and water activity modification property.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: CLEARWATER INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventors: Alan Sweeney, Brian Hallett
  • Patent number: 8099997
    Abstract: A gelled composition for pipeline, flowline, pipeline jumper or flowline jumper dewatering or preventing ingress of seawater into open pipeline systems or components during tie-in operations of jumpers or additional pipe, valving, manifolds, subsea pipeline architecture or flow conduits operations is disclosed, where the composition includes a concentrated metal formate solution and a hydratable polymer. The gelled formate compositions have improved dewatering properties with 100% or 360 pipe coverage. The gelled formate compositions have can also be reused by breaking and reformulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Curr, Brian Hallett, Alan Sweeney
  • Patent number: 8096167
    Abstract: The present invention provides a leakage detector enabling accurate and stable detection for occurrence and a position of leakage in a buried fluid pipe line and also making it possible for even those not so skilled in the leakage detection work to use the detector. The leakage detector 1 according to the present invention comprises a vibration detector 2 having a pickup 6 incorporating a piezoelectric element; a main body 4 of the detector incorporating voltage amplifiers 31, 37 for voltage-amplifying an output signal and a plurality types of noise removing units 33, 34, 35 for removing noises from the output signal, and a headphone 5. The main body 4 of the detector has a display unit 15 for displaying data for detected vibration sounds on a predefined screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Fuji Tecom Inc.
    Inventors: Katsuhiro Kaji, Kazuhiro Saijo
  • Patent number: 8065905
    Abstract: Method for dewatering, pressure testing, hydrotreating, suppressing methane hydrate formation and suppressing solution freezing point in pipeline operations have been disclosed, where the solution used in the operations includes an effective amount of a metal formate salt. The metal formate salt solutions have a low viscosity, have a high density, have a low metals corrosivity, are non-volatile, have a low solubility in hydrocarbons, are readily biodegradable, have a low toxicity, are non-hazardous, have a low environmental impact, have a freezing point depression property forming water/formate eutectic point mixtures, and have a water-structuring and water activity modification property.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Clearwater International, LLC
    Inventors: Alan Sweeney, Brian Hallett
  • Publication number: 20110259087
    Abstract: This machine comprises a central body (1), un piston (3) compressing the liquid contained in a liner (2), and a peripheral bladder (18) capable of uniformly applying pressure to a tube (21) immediately surrounding this bladder. Pressure can be applied in a simple manner through a tensile and compression testing machine (22, 23). No end effect that could disturb the test is produced on the tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENERGIES ALTERNATIVES
    Inventor: Pierre Rigaud
  • Patent number: 7921694
    Abstract: A leak detector for detecting a leak in a line includes a transmitting device for generating radiation to be coupled into the line. By a receiving device, radiation that has emerged from the line through a leak is received, as a result of which the leak becomes detectable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Heiko Bühring
  • Patent number: 7918122
    Abstract: A stocker 1 includes a storage FOUP 20, plural purge units 50, a measurement FOUP 30 and a stacker crane 60. The storage FOUP 20 stores a semiconductor wafer inside. The measurement FOUP 30 includes a flow meter inside. The purge unit 50 includes a purge shelf 51 having plural purge tables 54 for placing the storage FOUP 20, and a nitrogen gas is supplied into the storage FOUP 20 placed on the purge table 54. The stacker crane 60 transports the storage container 20 onto the purge table 54, and the measurement FOUP 30 is transported between the plural purge tables 54.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2011
    Assignee: Muratec Automation Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masanao Murata, Susumu Maetaki
  • Patent number: 7913543
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring the back pressure in chemical reactor tubes includes many automated features. Inflatable tube seals may be automatically inflated. The device may measure several tubes at once. It may transmit data electronically to a remote computer for analysis and graphic display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Tubemaster Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Patent number: 7818995
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring the back pressure in chemical reactor tubes includes many automated features. Inflatable tube seals may be automatically inflated. The device may measure several tubes at once. It may transmit data electronically to a remote computer for analysis and graphic display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Tubemaster, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Patent number: 7779676
    Abstract: An apparatus for isolating and/or testing a section of a pipe includes a generally annular body having, on each end, a boss. A resilient member such as an O-ring is provided between the annular body and each boss. A series of electromagnets are provided for forcing or urging the bosses towards each other thereby resulting in deformation of the resilient members resulting in a seal being formed between the apparatus and the pipe. A method for isolating and/or testing a pipe segment is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: CAR-BER Investments Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Carson
  • Patent number: 7752904
    Abstract: A structure subjected to stresses that can lead to structural failure. The structure includes first and second conductive layers and an intermediate layer therebetween formed of a dielectric, semiconductive, or resistive material, such that the first, second, and intermediate layers form in combination an electrical element, namely, a capacitive or resistive element. The electrical element is located within the structure so as to be physically responsive to transitory and permanent distortions of the structure resulting from extrinsic and intrinsic sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventors: Gary William Krutz, Keith Harmeyer, Michael A. Holland
  • Patent number: 7748255
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring the back pressure in chemical reactor tubes includes many automated features. Inflatable tube seals may be automatically inflated. The device may measure several tubes at once. It may transmit data electronically to a remote computer for analysis and graphic display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: TubeMaster Inc
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Publication number: 20100089128
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus (1) for leakage testing and/or pressure testing a portion of a pipe (7), the apparatus (1) including at least two spaced-apart packer elements (3, 5) which are arranged to define a volume (10) of fluid in an annulus between said at least two packer elements (3, 5) and the internal jacket surface of the pipe (7), and the apparatus (1) being provided with a means for providing a differential pressure between the fluid volume (10) and a fluid located immediately upstream and downstream of the apparatus (1), and with a means for sensing the pressure of the fluid volume (10). The invention also relates to a method of using the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventors: Jan Kristian Vasshus, Geir Ueland, Trond Melhus
  • Patent number: 7681435
    Abstract: An arrangement for monitoring the leak-tightness of an evacuated space which is hermetically closed, leak-tight, by means of at least one metallic wall is specified. A device which is connected to the evacuated space indicates an inadmissible pressure rise in the evacuated space caused by a leak in the wall. The device includes a metallic bellows, which is hermetically connected, leak-tight, to the evacuated space, and an electrical proximity switch to which an evaluation unit is connected. The proximity switch (7) is mounted, in the direction of movement of the bellows (5), at a distance from the end face of the latter, the size of which is varied as a function of the respective axial length of the bellows (5). A tube (9) connected fixedly to the wall (2) is mounted around the bellows (5), so as to maintain an air gap, surrounds the bellows (5) in a moisture-tight manner and is longer than the bellows (5) in its longest initial position corresponding to the expanded state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Nexans
    Inventors: Klaus Schippl, Friedrich Harten, Christian Frohne
  • Patent number: 7673496
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring the back pressure in chemical reactor tubes includes many automated features. Inflatable tube seals may be automatically inflated. The device may measure several tubes at once. It may transmit data electronically to a remote computer for analysis and graphic display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Tubemaster Inc
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Patent number: 7665486
    Abstract: A tear out test plug for plumbing installations includes a cylindrical body having a peripheral sidewall, a closed end and an open end. A positioning flange extends outwardly from the peripheral sidewall at the open end. An end wall closes the closed end. A frangible strip extends from the open end, down the peripheral sidewall, and across at least a portion of the end wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Gabe Coscarella
  • Publication number: 20100012211
    Abstract: A tear out test plug for plumbing installations includes a cylindrical body having a peripheral sidewall, a closed end and an open end. A positioning flange extends outwardly from the peripheral sidewall at the open end. An end wall closes the closed end. A frangible strip extends from the open end, down the peripheral sidewall, and across at least a portion of the end wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Gabe Coscarella
  • Patent number: 7648787
    Abstract: In a fuel cell system (100), the amount of fuel gas supplied through an fuel gas supply passage (24) and the amount of fuel gas consumed by a fuel cell (10) are detected. A difference between the amount of supplied fuel gas and the amount of consumed fuel gas is calculated by subtracting the amount of consumed fuel gas from the amount of supplied fuel gas. The pressure of the fuel gas in a leak detection passage (Cx), the change in the pressure of the detected fuel gas can be detected, and the change in the amount of fuel gas in the gas leak detection passage (Cx) due to the change in the pressure of the fuel gas can thus be detected. The difference is corrected by subtracting the change in the amount of fuel gas in the gas leak detection passage from the difference. When the corrected difference is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, a fuel gas leak is detected in the leak detection passage (Cx).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Keigo Suematsu, Tatsuaki Yokoyama, Kenji Umayahara, Nobuhiro Tomosada
  • Patent number: 7628056
    Abstract: A pressure testing apparatus is provided for internally pressure testing pipe. A mandrel is secured to a frame and is adapted to receive a pipe thereon such that a gap exists between an outer surface of the mandrel and an inner surface of the pipe. A first end cap is disposed on an outer surface proximal a first end of the mandrel. A second end cap is connected to a second end of the mandrel. First and second seal members are disposed between the first and second end caps and the first and second pipe ends, respectively, such that the first and second seal members abut respective ends of the pipe disposed on the mandrel. A line is in fluid communication with the gap to fill the gap with a testing fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Karl-Heinz Krah GmbH
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Krah
  • Patent number: 7610796
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for adjusting specific quality characteristics and/or properties of pipes (1) by means of a pressure test, especially for steel pipes of pipe conduits for combustible media. According to said method, in addition to the water volume required for the pressure test according to DIN EN 10208 part 2, an additional water volume (12) is filled into every single pipe (1) with the proviso that the pipe material is slightly subjected to plastic stress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Eisen- und Metallwerke Ferndorf GmbH
    Inventors: Siegfried Thomalla, Franz-Josef Schmeck, Hans-Joachim de la Camp
  • Patent number: 7613584
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for automatically detecting leaks in a type III hydrant fuel piping system is described. In one embodiment, the method includes automatically actuating one or more valves to isolate a hydrant loop of a type III hydrant fuel piping system from the remainder of the system. The pressure in the hydrant loop is varied. The pressure in the hydrant loop is measured over time in response to the varying of the pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Hansa Consult of North America, LLC
    Inventors: Joerg Hoehner, Karl M. Overman, Ola M. Nordell, Walter O. Phelps
  • Publication number: 20090234590
    Abstract: A method of predicting at least one physical change in crack geometry based on ILI operating pressure, the method comprising a) performing a first test on a pipeline at a first pressure P1; b) obtaining a first set of test data on the pipeline at P1; c) performing a second test on the pipeline at a second pressure P2; d) obtaining a second set of test data on the pipeline at P2; and e) analyzing the first and second sets of test data for difference in feature signature at P1 vs. P2.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventors: Richard Clark McNealy, Ming Gao
  • Publication number: 20090229349
    Abstract: A test tool for use in testing a tubular component such as a pipe includes a body having first and second body portions together defining a sliding sleeve. Axially spaced sealing and gripping modules are provided, with one module located on the first body portion and another module located on the second body portion. A force-generating arrangement is provided to apply an axial test force to the tubular component via the modules. A test pressure is applied to a section of the wall of the tubular component and an axial load is applied to the wall section. Application of the axial load between the first and second modules applies the axial load to the wall section of the tubular component to facilitate strength testing of the tubular component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventor: Angus George Bowie
  • Patent number: 7555936
    Abstract: A system and method for predicting structural failure of a wall of a fluid containment vessel, such as a hydraulic hose or other type of pressurized conduit of types used in mobile machinery, automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and process equipment. The wall of the vessel has an innermost layer for contact with the fluid contained by the vessel, and an outermost layer parallel with the innermost layer. The system includes strain-sensing means between the innermost and outermost layers and comprising at least one conductor parallel to the innermost layer of the wall. The system and method entail sensing changes in an electrical property associated with the at least one conductor resulting from distortion of the wall of the vessel causing distortion of the at least one conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Purdue Research Foundation
    Inventor: Aaron Don Deckard
  • Publication number: 20090038378
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring the back pressure in chemical reactor tubes includes many automated features. Inflatable tube seals may be automatically inflated. The device may measure several tubes at once. It may transmit data electronically to a remote computer for analysis and graphic display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: TubeMaster, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Patent number: 7487665
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a method of monitoring the stay time in a restricted conduit, such as a holding tube in a heat treatment plant. A first measurement registration x of a chemical or physical magnitude, such as the temperature, takes place in the beginning of the restricted conduit. A second measurement registration y of the same chemical or physical magnitude, i.e. the temperature, takes place in the end of the restricted conduit. X and y measure natural temperature variations in the product for which the intention is to control the stay time. The stay time is determined by the time lag t at the best co-variation between x and y. By filtering the measurement registration for y, it is possible to refine the measurement method and compensate for dispersion in the product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Tetra Laval Holdings & Finance S.A.
    Inventor: Tomas Skoglund
  • Patent number: 7475591
    Abstract: A method of hydrostatic testing a selected section of a pipeline having fluid flow therethrough, including the steps of introducing into the pipeline a pig train including a leading seal pig, a supply liquid slug, a first isolation tool, a test liquid slug and a second isolation tool; permitting the train to traverse the pipeline interior by the force of fluid flow until the lead isolation tool is forwardly of and the second isolation tool is rearwardly of the selected selection of the pipeline; securing the position of the pig train by applying exteriorly of the pipeline appropriate signals to actuate the isolation tools to each engage and seal the interior of the pipeline trapping the test liquid slug therebetween; and pumping liquid from the supply liquid slugs into the test liquid slug to a hydrostatic testing pressure. In addition to testing, the pipeline can be repaired by moving the pig train into position where a defective area can be isolated by additional isolation tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: TDW Delaware, Inc.
    Inventors: Wade S. Buckley, Eric N. Freeman, Larry D. Payne, Kim R. Stover
  • Publication number: 20090007640
    Abstract: A method for use in connection with installing a cable into a conduit having a first end and a second end, to confirm whether air introduced into the conduit at the first end is flowing out of the conduit from the second end, the method including the steps of: substantially blocking the second end, so that when the air is introduced into the conduit its flow from the second end will be impeded; introducing a flow of air into the first end; and detecting a change in a property of the air within the conduit whereby it can be confirmed if the air is flowing to the second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2007
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventors: David JT Heatley, Adrian R Thurlow, Ian Neild
  • Publication number: 20080314124
    Abstract: Method for dewatering, pressure testing, hydrotreating, suppressing methane hydrate formation and suppressing solution freezing point in pipeline operations have been disclosed, where the solution used in the operations includes an effective amount of a metal formate salt. The metal formate salt solutions have a low viscosity, have a high density, have a low metals corrosivity, are non-volatile, have a low solubility in hydrocarbons, are readily biodegradable, have a low toxicity, are non-hazardous, have a low environmental impact, have a freezing point depression property forming water/formate eutectic point mixtures, and have a water-structuring and water activity modification property.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: CLEARWATER INTERNATIONAL, LLC
    Inventors: Alan Sweeney, Brian Hallett
  • Publication number: 20080314125
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring the back pressure in chemical reactor tubes includes many automated features. Inflatable tube seals may be automatically inflated. The device may measure several tubes at once. It may transmit data electronically to a remote computer for analysis and graphic display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: TubeMaster, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Publication number: 20080282776
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a Universal Pumping Platform (UPP) that comprises a platform containing an electric motor that drives a hydraulic pump for producing high pressure hydraulic fluid and one or more pumps powered by the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump. The pump is selected for the desired commissioning method to be carried out, such as filling, chemical treating, pigging, hydrostatic testing or dewatering the pipeline. The UPP is suspended from a vessel by an umbilical that provides the electric current for the electric motor supported by the UPP.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: TRIDENT SUBSEA TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: James Bradley Loeb, Kurt S. Myers
  • Publication number: 20080282777
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a Geometric Universal Pumping Platform (GUPP) that comprises a platform containing an electric motor that drives a hydraulic pump for producing high pressure hydraulic fluid and one or more pumps powered by the hydraulic fluid from the hydraulic pump. The pump is selected for the desired commissioning method to be carried out, such as flooding, chemical treating, pigging, hydrostatic testing or dewatering the pipeline. The GUPP is suspended from a vessel by an umbilical that provides the electric current for the electric motor supported by the GUPP.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Applicant: TRIDENT SUBSEA TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: James Bradley Loeb
  • Publication number: 20080184783
    Abstract: An exemplary embodiment providing one or more improvements includes a piping system including a test tee, the test tee comprised of a cleanout tee having an access port, a plug for the access port, a chamber, a test plug which can be inserted into the chamber and removably attached at the top of the chamber thereby blocking the lumen of the test tee. A test port is located in the test tee above the test plug, and a nipple with a valve and a spigot with connections for a hose is inserted into the test port. In testing the integrity of the piping system, the test plug is inserted through the access port into the chamber and is attached at the top of the chamber, thereby closing the lumen of the system. Other drains in the system are closed, and water is inserted into the system, optionally through the nipple. After the integrity of the system is determined, the water is drained from the system through the nipple, the test plug is removed from the chamber, and the access port plug is replaced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Jay R. Smith Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: Steven Chromey
  • Patent number: 7396389
    Abstract: Unless an abnormality exists in piping introducing a pressure from front and rear of DPF 22 into a differential pressure sensor 45, pulsations of pressure propagation through an exhaust passage 21 is offset in a detection value of a pressure difference of the differential pressure sensor 45, and an amplitude of the detection value of the DPF pressure difference resulting from pulsation of the pressure becomes small. If a crack exists in one of the piping 3a and 3b, the influence of a pulsation of the pressure appears in the DPF pressure difference and the amplitude of the detection value of the DPF pressure difference becomes large. The amplitude of the detection value of the DPF pressure difference is compared with the reference value and is detected as being abnormal when it is large, utilizing the phenomenon described above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Kariya, Tsukasa Kuboshima
  • Patent number: 7395695
    Abstract: A pipe testing apparatus includes a mandrel adapted for insertion within the pipe and two sealing devices connected to the mandrel and adapted to seal opposite ends of the pipe to create an annular space between the mandrel, the pipe, and the sealing devices. The apparatus further includes one or more ports for filling the annular space with a pressurized fluid and a pressure gauge for monitoring the pressure within the annular space. At least one of the sealing devices includes a combination of a sealing ring and a force applying ring, which forces the sealing ring to bear against one end of the pipe to from a seal. The mandrel is provided with stops for preventing the at least one sealing device from moving axially away from the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: Car-Ber Investments Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Carson
  • Publication number: 20080156077
    Abstract: A high integrity protection system (HIPS) for the protection of a piping system downstream of a wellhead has an inlet connected to the wellhead and an outlet connected to the downstream piping system and includes: two sets of series-connected surface safety valves (SSVs) in fluid communication with the inlet, the two sets being in parallel fluid flow relation to each other, each set of SSVs consisting of two SSVs in series, either one or both of the two sets of SSVs operable as a flowpath for fluids entering the inlet and passing through the HIPS outlet to the piping system; two vent control valves (VCVs), each of which is connected to piping intermediate each of the two series-connected SSVs, each of the VCVs being in fluid flow relation to each other, each set of SSVs consisting of SSVs in series, either one or both of the two sets of SSVs operable as a flowpath for fluids entering the inlet and passing through the HIPS outlet to the piping system; two vent control valves (VCVs), each of which is connected
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: Patrick S. Flanders
  • Patent number: 7390024
    Abstract: A test apparatus for testing the fluid tightness of pipes of different sizes includes a one-piece main body having a tubular portion defining a chamber with an internally threaded wall portion that can be screwed separately onto an externally threaded pipe in a fluid-tight manner. The one-piece main body has a head portion connected with the tubular portion. The head portion has a gauge port in fluid communication with the chamber. The head portion has a test fluid inlet port in fluid communication with the chamber and the gauge port. The gauge port has the same configuration as the test fluid inlet port whereby a test gauge can be connected in either the gauge port or the test fluid inlet port and a test fluid supply line can be the connected in either the test fluid inlet port or the gauge port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Inventor: Louis Giordano
  • Publication number: 20080134763
    Abstract: A vascular prosthesis tester (10) for inducing stresses upon a vascular prosthesis (22) having a channel extending through the vascular prosthesis is disclosed. The tester includes a pump (18) adaptable to pressurize a fluid disposed within the channel to induce a radial stress upon the vascular prosthesis. The tester may further include a bend applicator (16) operable to induce a bending stress, a torque applicator (12) operable to induce a torque, a linear force applicator (52) operable to induce a linear force, and/or a stop (28) for inducing a lateral push stress upon the vascular prosthesis. A method of fatigue testing a vascular prosthesis contained within a fluid conduit is also disclosed. The method includes injecting a fluid within the inner channel and inducing a torque, bending stress, linear stress, and/or later push stress upon the vascular prosthesis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2004
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventors: Michael R. Moreno, James E. Moore
  • Patent number: 7325573
    Abstract: A plumbing line test plug includes a plug body adapted to plug an interior diameter of a plumbing line. The body has a wet face, which is exposed to liquid when in use, and a dry face, which is opposed to the wet face. A flexible pressure responsive annular membrane extends outwardly and rearwardly from the wet face. Hydraulic pressure of liquid in the plumbing line, forces the flexible pressure responsive annular membrane into sealing engagement with interior walls of the plumbing line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2008
    Inventor: Gabe Coscarella
  • Publication number: 20070220957
    Abstract: A pressure testing apparatus is provided for internally pressure testing pipe. A mandrel is secured to a frame and is adapted to receive a pipe thereon such that a gap exists between an outer surface of the mandrel and an inner surface of the pipe. A first end cap is disposed on an outer surface proximal a first end of the mandrel. A second end cap is connected to a second end of the mandrel. First and second seal members are disposed between the first and second end caps and the first and second pipe ends, respectively, such that the first and second seal members abut respective ends of the pipe disposed on the mandrel. A line is in fluid communication with the gap to fill the gap with a testing fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2006
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Krah
  • Patent number: 7251983
    Abstract: A pump housing that contains a pump that draws fuel from an underground storage tank containing fuel to deliver to fuel dispensers in a service station environment. The pump is coupled to a double-walled fuel pipe that carries the fuel from the pump to the fuel dispensers. The double-walled fuel piping contains an inner annular space that carries the fuel and an outer annular space that captures any leaked fuel from the inner annular space. The outer annular space is maintained through the fuel piping from the pump to the fuel dispensers so that the outer annular space can be pressurized by a pump to determine if a leak exists in the outer annular space or so that fuel leaked from the inner annular space can be captured by a leak containment chamber in the pump housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: Gilbarco Inc.
    Inventor: Ray J. Hutchinson
  • Publication number: 20070157707
    Abstract: A pipe testing apparatus includes a rupture device for testing a rupture strength of a pipe. The rupture device has two clamping heads respectively accepting associated ends of the pipe which extends between the clamping heads, and a pressure-application system having a feed channel for imposing a fluid upon the pipe. The rupture device includes a tie rod which connects the clamping heads and extends through the pipe in coaxial relationship thereto such that an annular space is formed between the tie rod and the pipe, with the feed channel feeding into the annular space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Publication date: July 12, 2007
    Applicant: Benteler Automobiltechnik GmbH
    Inventor: RAFAEL GARCIA GOMEZ
  • Patent number: 7240537
    Abstract: The present invention deals with a method which allows to determine the wall friction profile along pipes transporting liquids, particularly petroleum industry liquids, by measuring the pressure transients induced by fast changes in the flow rate. This method is applicable to pipes in which the discharge pressure is greater then the bubble point of the transported liquid and, in any case, when free gas is absent in the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignees: ENI S.p.A., Enitechnologie S.p.A.
    Inventors: Alberto Di Lullo, Sebastiano Correra, Vittorio Rota, Gilberto Toffolo, Martin Bartosek
  • Patent number: 7240538
    Abstract: An apparatus for hydrotesting a hollow component includes a generally cylindrical main body having a bore therethrough that defines first and second open ends, the bore including a central axis; first and second end plates fixed to the main body for closing the first and second open ends, the first end plate including a vent port and a pressure port that open into the bore radially distal from the central axis, the second end plate including a vent port and a pressure port; an alignment disc disposed in the bore and fixed atop the second end plate, the alignment disc including a vent port and a pressure port that open into the bore radially proximal the central axis, the vent port and the pressure port of the alignment disc being in fluid communication with the vent port and the pressure port, respectively, of the second end plate; and a movable sealing cap disposed in an opening in the first plate and movable along the central axis of the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Robert E. Steere, III, Michael Spielzinger, Vincent Gonsalves
  • Patent number: 7231812
    Abstract: A conduit breach location detector for detecting leaks in a conduit is disclosed. The conduit breach location detector includes a shuttle cage for connection to the conduit. A sounding shuttle is provided in the shuttle cage. A sounding cable may be connected to the sounding shuttle. A pressurization system is connected to the shuttle cage for pressurizing the shuttle cage and pushing the sounding shuttle through the conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: Michael E. Lagare
  • Patent number: RE42358
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for completing the commissioning of a subsea pipeline by purging with a compressed gas to dewater and dry the line wherein the operation is done on the seabed. More specifically, the method is carried out with a subsea vechicle (hereinafter “SV”) that powers pumps located on the seabed or are carried by the SV to inject/remove chemical, dewater, and dry, the pipeline. The present invention may be part of the commissioning of a new or old pipeline or a new portion of a pipeline in which a purging of the line with a compressed gas and drying of the line is required. After commissioning, product flows through the pipeline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Valkyrie Commissioning Services, Inc.
    Inventors: David M. Tucker, Charles R. Yemington
  • Patent number: RE42909
    Abstract: A pressure test cap includes a mounting collar with an outer rib to limit depth of insertion of the cap into a pipe. A closure disc which seals the mounting collar is connected to the collar through an inner rim by a weakened ring. An outer rim section registers with the inner rim so that impacts to the outer rim are transferred to the weakened ring to separate the disc from the collar. The closure disc includes a centrally positioned nipple for connection of a conduit of a pressurized test fluid source. The nipple is closed by a break-away nipple plug. The nipple plug has a centrally located indentation for piercing to bleed trapped air from the system and resealing by a screw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Sioux Chief Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Frank D Julian, Duane R Condon