Clamp, Plug, Or Sealing Feature Patents (Class 73/49.8)
  • Patent number: 11906481
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a grouting and water-plugging device for a fractured rock in a mine coupling state and a test method, and relates to the technical field of rock mechanics testing. The device includes a pressurizer, a reservoir, a test box, and a grouting pump. The reservoir includes a temperature sensor and a pressing-water plate. The pressing-water plate is connected to the pressurizer through a pressurizing rod. A pressure measuring pipe and a drainage pipe are installed on an outer side of the reservoir. The reservoir is connected to a water pump through a water injection pipe. The test box includes a rock, a transverse force exerting plate, a longitudinal force exerting plate, a stress sensor and the temperature sensor. The longitudinal force exerting plate is provided with multiple water through holes. A sliding box door is hinged to a front wall of the test box. The pressure measuring pipe and the drainage pipe are installed on a rear wall of the test box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: SHANDONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Weitao Liu, Haifeng Wu, Xiangxi Meng, Yanhui Du, Lifu Pang, Mengke Han, Jiyuan Zhao
  • Patent number: 11885217
    Abstract: An assembly includes two tubular elements, a primary and a secondary seal arranged between the two tubular elements, a seal cavity formed between the two tubular elements and the primary and the secondary seal, and a seal monitoring apparatus having a housing and a position sensor. The housing has a chamber enclosing a separator which divides the chamber into a first and a second sub-chamber. The first sub-chamber is fluidly connected to the seal cavity and is filled with a hydraulic fluid. The separator is movable in a first direction relative to the housing to increase a volume of the first sub-chamber and decrease a volume of the second sub-chamber, and in a second direction to decrease the volume of the first sub-chamber and increase the volume of the second sub-chamber. The position sensor generates an electrical signal which represents a position of the separator relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: AKER SOLUTIONS AS
    Inventors: Joakim Martens, Geir Ivar Holberg, Martin Pedersen
  • Patent number: 11561151
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for leak testing surgical conduit grafts or valved conduits such as aortic-valved conduits with a pressurized gas such as air. Air is non-destructive and especially useful for leak testing conduits that have coatings or sealants that may be functionally impacted when exposed to fluids such as water or saline. Open ends of the conduit are clamped and sealed, and a pressurized gas introduced into an inner lumen thereof. A change in mass flow rate is measured to quantify the leakage. One end of a tubular conduit may be clamped to a fixed manifold, and the opposite end to a manifold slidably mounted to accommodate any conduit elongation when pressurized. The clamping and sealing structure may be pneumatic and/or mechanical, and complementary contoured clamp members may be used to seal a scalloped external sealing ring of an aortic conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2023
    Assignee: Edwards Lifesciences Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Van Nest, Alyssa E. Kornswiet, Jackie P. Lau
  • Patent number: 11460141
    Abstract: An assembly is provided that includes first and second end plates adapted to be coaxially aligned when in use. One or more members extend from the end plates or an annular ring, the annular ring provided between the end plates, the other of the end plates or annular ring comprising one or more first slots at one end thereof to be aligned with and for receiving the one or more members of the first end plate, and one or more second slots at the other end thereof to be aligned with and for receiving the one or more members. Resilient sealing members are provided around the one or more members between the end plates and annular ring, and an urging mechanism urges the first and second end plates towards the annular ring to deform the first and second resilient sealing members to engage the inner wall of the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2022
    Assignee: Vital Industrial Solutions Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas John Lannan
  • Patent number: 11162914
    Abstract: Provided are a pressure-resistance inspection apparatus for valves and its inspection method, and hydrogen gas detection unit capable of detecting external leakage and specifying its position of occurrence even for valves with different sizes and shapes by performing pressure-resistance inspection with a simple structure quickly with high accuracy while preventing errors in test results, without requiring post-treatment for the valves, and also capable of mass processing by automation. Provided are a cover 2 in which a test valve 1 is accommodated in a state of being isolated from outside and a sensor 22 inside this cover 2 and capable of moving to a position close to an outer surface of the test valve 1 filled with a search gas. This sensor 22 is a gas sensor capable of detecting external leakage of the search gas from the test valve 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: KITZ CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takeshi Uematsu, Naoki Kira
  • Patent number: 11118715
    Abstract: A method for isolating and performing work on a segment of a pipe includes delivering an isolation tool to a target location. A first seal member is actuated to form an annular seal around an outer surface of the isolation tool. A second ring body is moved away from a first ring body, elongating an isolation sheet that extends between the first ring body and the second ring body. The isolation sheet defines an annular work space between the outer diameter of the isolation sheet and the inner diameter of the pipe. A second seal member is actuated to form an annular seal around the outer surface of the isolation tool. A pressure within the annular work space is reduced by removing fluids within the annular work space with an ejector device. Work is performed within the annular work space with a tool assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2021
    Assignee: SAUDI ARABIAN OIL COMPANY
    Inventor: Abdulaziz Maged Al Otaibi
  • Patent number: 10620074
    Abstract: A pressure gauge includes: a pressure sensor; a display unit configured to display a measurement value of the pressure sensor; and a measurement controller configured to set, as a measurement range of the pressure sensor, any of a plurality of measurement ranges defined by a lower limit value specific to the pressure sensor and respective upper limit values that are equal to or lower than an upper limit value specific to the pressure sensor and are different from each other, and to avoid that the display unit displays the measurement value when the measurement value exceeds a display upper limit value dependent on the upper limit value of the measurement range that is set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignees: Yokogawa Electric Corporation, Yokogawa Test & Measurement Corporation
    Inventors: Hirokazu Nagashima, Tadahiko Iinuma, Toshiaki Kawakami
  • Patent number: 10429274
    Abstract: A vertical high-speed testing device for a spiral seal of a cone bit bearing is provided. The device includes an upper fixed plate, a liquid cylinder, a cone, a spiral sleeve, a shaft and a lower fixed plate. The spiral sleeve is in threaded connection to the cone. Both the cone and the spiral sleeve are sheathed on the shaft. Sealing threads are provided on an inner surface of the spiral sleeve, and there is a clearance between the sealing threads and the shaft. By the testing device, a spiral seal structure for a cone bit bearing is simulated, and the cone drives the spiral sleeve to rotate; and the sand draining performance of the spiral seal is tested by measuring the time required to drain sand-containing medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2019
    Inventors: Yi Zhou, Yueming Zheng, Yang Xiao, Xia Wang, Tong Xu, Yuxing Huang, Yi Tang, Bin Tan
  • Patent number: 9739686
    Abstract: A tool for sealing at least one opening of a fluid circuit element, the tool including a support, at least one sealing device for an opening connected to the support and positioning structure for positioning and immobilizing the support with respect to the fluid circuit element, the frame comprising a U-shaped stirrup with a base and two arms, a rod and two connections connecting the rod to each arm, each arm including a centering wedge attached to the internal face of the arm which presents a bearing surface, the bearing surfaces being spaced apart by a distance making it possible to immobilize the fluid circuit element in a first direction in a transverse plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Airbus Operations (S.A.S.)
    Inventor: Stéphane Mateo
  • Publication number: 20150143879
    Abstract: A vacuum actuated duct test plug with pressure test tube comprising a compressible foam block mounted to an elongate hollow tube and plastic enclosure having an open end wherein a vacuum applied to the open end of the plastic enclosure evacuates air from the enclosure and compresses the block allowing it to be placed into a duct register boot, and expands to create an air tight seal when the vacuum is withdrawn from the enclosure. Pressure behind the plug can be tested at the end of the hollow tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: Kirk Johnson
  • Publication number: 20150040646
    Abstract: A method for evaluating sealing of a bipolar structure including a sheet-like substrate forming a current collector, and two electrodes in a form of films arranged on opposite surfaces of the substrate, respectively, the method including: placing the bipolar structure in a cavity to define first and second compartments therein, which are separated by the bipolar structure, a periphery of which is sealingly connected to the cavity; circulating a fluid in the first compartment of the cavity toward the second compartment; and evaluating sealing of the bipolar structure from a measurement of difference in pressure of the fluid in the first and second compartments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENE ALT
    Inventors: Marianne Chami, Sebastien Martinet, Ludovic Rouillon
  • Patent number: 8949041
    Abstract: A system and for determining health of a fluid seal member including a fluid seal member; a transducer in force transmitting contact with the fluid seal member to generate an output signal based on an amount of force and/or pressure applied to the transducer; a radio frequency (RF) transponder operably coupled to the transducer to store the output signal of the transducer; a reader within an operable distance from the RF transponder to transmit electromagnetic energy to the RF transponder and receive the output signal of the transducer stored in the RF transponder through a radio frequency communication link; and a processor coupled to the reader, to determine health of the fluid seal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas Schenk, Jeffrey D. Navarro
  • Publication number: 20140311223
    Abstract: An inspection apparatus includes a chamber and a pressurizer. The chamber includes a space portion configured to house at least a sealed portion of a battery, and an opening portion configured to open a partial portion of the battery other than the sealed portion to an atmosphere. The pressurizer is configured to put the space portion into a pressurized state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Publication date: October 23, 2014
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Mamoru BABA, Takeshi SATO, Masaaki KITAURA
  • Patent number: 8850866
    Abstract: In order to functionally test a leak detector (20) that comprises a partial pressure sensor (21), a testing device (30) having a variable volume (33) is connected to the leak detector. Said testing device can be a syringe. By changing the volume (33), the partial pressure of the test gas contained in the ambient air is changed. A test is carried out to check whether the leak detector (20) indicates the change. According to the invention, a vacuum pumping device having mechanical vacuum pumps is not required. The method is suitable for testing vacuum systems that contain a vacuum pumping device that is used in the leak test to generate a required vacuum. The service technician can perform the functional test of the leak detector (20) separately from the system and the vacuum pumping device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Inficon GmbH
    Inventor: Randolf Rolff
  • Publication number: 20140250981
    Abstract: A seal test fixture for a gas turbine fuel nozzle including an enclosed container for receiving a body of the gas turbine fuel nozzle including a seal; a test chamber coupled to the enclosed container for sealingly enclosing a flange of the gas turbine fuel nozzle and fluidly communicating with a leak path of the gas turbine fuel nozzle; an air injector opening through which pressurized air is injected into a main fuel chamber of the gas turbine fuel nozzle; and a pressure gauge for measuring an air pressure within the test chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Publication date: September 11, 2014
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Brandon Taylor Overby, James Carroll Baummer, Mark Carmine Bellino
  • Publication number: 20140238111
    Abstract: The present invention provides a compact tube clamping device 50 with a simple structure and used suitably for a hydraulic pressure tester for inspecting quality of an electric resistance welded tube. To achieve this object, a lifting/lowering base 52 including a tube support body 55 on itself is provided onto a fixed base 51 to be able to lift and lower. Clamp claws 56 are mounted in positions, between which the tube support body 55 of the lifting/lowering base 52 is sandwiched, to be able to turn. A claw drive body 58 for lifting and lowering independently of the lifting/lowering base 52 is provided in the lifting/lowering base 52. Opposite side portions of the claw drive body 58 are connected to the opposite clamp claws 56 by links 59 so as to turn the opposite clamp claws 56 in closing directions by lowering with respect to the lifting/lowering base 52.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: NAKATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Satoshi Tsuruta, Katsuhiko Ito, Katsumi Ishigaki, Hiroaki Yabuta
  • Patent number: 8783094
    Abstract: An imperfection in a seal of an envelope can be identified. The envelope is moved laterally, and a positive flow of air is delivered to a leading edge of a top flap of the envelope to separate the top flap from a bottom flap or a side flap of the envelope at the imperfection in the seal of the envelope. Based on the separation of the top flap from the bottom flap or the side flap of the envelope, it can be determined whether the seal has the imperfection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: FMR LLC
    Inventors: Raymond Mark Lutz, Steven Carl Turner
  • Patent number: 8783093
    Abstract: A device places a plug and simultaneously checks a correct position alignment of the plug with a holding element for fixing a hollow body. The device has at least one first and one second opening and a plug placement mechanism with which the plug is be inserted into the second opening of the hollow body. The device has a measuring head that is traversed by at least one channel. The channel can be fluidically connected to the first opening of the hollow body. The device can further include a pressure sensor which can be fluidically connected to the channel of the measuring head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Arzneimittel GmbH Apotheker Vetter & Co. Ravensburg
    Inventors: Alexander Glunz, Arno Schroff
  • Patent number: 8753452
    Abstract: A device and method for removing particles, such as catalyst, from a chemical reactor tube by inserting a hollow tube body into the bottom end of a vertical tube, sealing between the hollow tube body and the vertical tube, blowing a gas through the hollow tube body into the bottom of the vertical tube, and vacuuming the top of the vertical tube while continuing to introduce gas into the bottom of the vertical tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Extundo Incorporated
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson
  • Patent number: 8746041
    Abstract: A system for detecting and communicating moisture leaking from a fluid conduit of the type comprising a fitting configured to mate with the fluid conduit, the fitting including an outer surface including an outer edge portion that is enclosed within the fluid conduit when positioning the fluid conduit over at least a portion of the outer surface, wherein the system includes a sensor for detecting moisture, the sensor being positioned proximate to the outer edge portion of the fitting and configured to generate a signal representing a result of moisture detection, and a receiver configured to receive the signal generated by the sensor. The system may include a communication circuit to provide wired or wireless communication between the sensor and the receiver. Other systems and method for detecting and communicating moisture leakage are further disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventors: Joseph J. Howard, Mark A. Hess, Benjamin Glace
  • Publication number: 20140083171
    Abstract: A pressure transmitter has a pressure sensor, an isolator diaphragm, and a fill tube. Interior passages in the pressure sensor module body are filled with isolator fluid and provide fluid connections. The isolator fluid couples pressure from the first isolator diaphragm assembly to the pressure sensor. A first crimp portion of the fill tube radially narrows into a substantially solid circular cylindrical cross section to form a first primary seal that is resistant to high pressure cycling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Applicant: ROSEMOUNT INC.
    Inventors: David Matthew Strei, Kenneth Guttsen
  • Patent number: 8661877
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for testing float equipment used in the construction of wellbores for the hydrocarbon exploration and production industry. The apparatus has a housing and an opening for receiving an item of float equipment. A seal arrangement is configured to seal with the item of float equipment, such that the housing and seal arrangement together define a test chamber. The test chamber is pressurized to expose at least a part of the item of float equipment in the test chamber to a test pressure. In embodiments of the invention, at least a part of an outside surface and at least a part of the item of float equipment may be simultaneously loaded. The tests performed more closely simulate the conditions to which the equipment is exposed in a wellbore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Sudelac Limited
    Inventor: Paul Howlett
  • Publication number: 20130233058
    Abstract: A remote seal assembly for subsea applications is provided. The assembly includes an upper housing having a fluid coupling for coupling the remote seal to a process fluid pressure measurement device. A lower housing is coupled to the upper housing and has an interface that is configured to mount to a pressure vessel. The lower housing also has a process fluid inlet. An isolation diaphragm is disposed between the upper and lower housings. At least one of the upper housing, lower housing and isolation diaphragm are constructed from a material suitable for immersion in saltwater. In some embodiments, the lower housing has a shoulder disposed about the process fluid inlet and a plurality of self-energizing seals configured to couple the assembly to a venturi flow meter body. A subsea process fluid flow measurement system is also provided that includes a pressure transmitter and at least one subsea remote seal assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Inventors: Ivar Breen, Brent W. Miller, Jay Scheldorf, Gokhan Aydar, David Broden
  • Publication number: 20130220599
    Abstract: A side-pocket mandrel is used for a gas lift system. The mandrel has two external ports, which can use external check valves when deployed downhole. Before installing the mandrel, operators preferably pressure test the interface of a gas lift valve in the pocket of the mandrel. Internal pressure testing is performed. The mandrel, however, is suited for external-pressure testing, which is impractical for other types of side-pocket mandrels. In the external pressure test, a pressure test line is coupled to the inlet port on the mandrel, which is already threaded in a reinforced area of the mandrel to receive a check valve. The other inlet port is closed off with a plug or with a check valve. When external pressure is applied with the test line, operators can determine if the gas lift valve is properly seated (i.e., whether the latch is properly engaged in the pocket). Operators can also determine if the seals between the gas lift valve and the pocket are capable of holding external pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Colin Gordon RAE
  • Publication number: 20130160526
    Abstract: An imperfection in a seal of an envelope can be identified. The envelope is moved laterally, and a positive flow of air is delivered to a leading edge of a top flap of the envelope to separate the top flap from a bottom flap or a side flap of the envelope at the imperfection in the seal of the envelope. Based on the separation of the top flap from the bottom flap or the side flap of the envelope, it can be determined whether the seal has the imperfection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventors: Raymond Mark Lutz, Steven Carl Turner
  • Patent number: 8468877
    Abstract: An end cap for an open end of a hydraulic fitting having a peripheral flange can be provided by a threaded ring and a threaded insert. The threaded insert can be rotatably engaged with the threaded ring to move axially back and forth. The threaded insert has a forward end face which can engage the open end of the hydraulic fitting to close the hydraulic fitting end or to couple with it. The threaded ring includes a locking member to embrace and engage the peripheral flange. The end cap can be used to prevent loss of oil from the hydraulic fitting during service of equipment on which the hydraulic fitting is utilized, and for other purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Gregory Molloy
  • Patent number: 8453666
    Abstract: A method for testing the integrity of a plumbing system. A first step involves affixing a seal with a releasable adhesive over a component of the plumbing system having a bore to occlude the bore. A second step involves charging the plumbing system with a fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Gabe Coscarella
  • Patent number: 8402818
    Abstract: A method for assessing sealing of a housing of a servomotor. The method includes lowering the pressure inside the housing, from an initial pressure to a set pressure, by fluid suction through an opening in the housing, the opening being normally sealed by a plug. When the pressure inside the housing is equal to the set pressure, pressure variation inside the housing, for a predetermined time interval, is determined. The fluid suction prevents any fluid exchange with the housing in a direction opposite a fluid suction direction. The sealing of the housing of the servomotor is assessed based on the pressure variation determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Bernard Controls
    Inventors: Etienne Bernard, Gilles Aubert-Maguero
  • Patent number: 8394046
    Abstract: A method provides for checking the correct coupling of an adding device to a therapeutic appliance that includes an extracorporeal circuit with which the adding device is connected such that a drug can be introduced into the extracorporeal circuit by the adding device during operation of the therapeutic appliance. The adding device is coupled to the extracorporeal circuit on the suction side of a pump disposed in the extracorporeal circuit, with a portion in the region of negative pressure of the extracorporeal circuit being in connection with a portion of the adding device that is closed with respect to the other parts of the extracorporeal circuit, and with the pressure in the closed portion being varied and measured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Fresenius Medical Care Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Nuernberger, Marco Blasek, Peter Kloeffel
  • Patent number: 8333108
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of automotive heat exchanger assemblies, and, in particular, assemblies with cores with headers and end tanks and/or male and female connections. The present invention also relates to a method of making a positive leak path to determine leaks prior to employment of heat exchanger assembles. The present invention further relates to a method of determining whether or not a leak seal is temporary by providing a positive leak path at the point of assembly or initial evaluation or testing a heat exchanger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Valeo, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Lorentz, Stephen Gunn, Eric Leroy, Nicolas Lelievre
  • Publication number: 20120285222
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for testing float equipment used in the construction of wellbores for the hydrocarbon exploration and production industry. The apparatus has a housing and an opening for receiving an item of float equipment. A seal arrangement is configured to seal with the item of float equipment, such that the housing and seal arrangement together define a test chamber. The test chamber is pressurised to expose at least a part of the item of float equipment in the test chamber to a test pressure. In embodiments of the invention, at least a part of an outside surface and at least a part of the item of float equipment may be simultaneously loaded. The tests performed more closely simulate the conditions to which the equipment is exposed in a wellbore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Applicant: SUDELAC LIMITED
    Inventor: Paul Howlett
  • Patent number: 8261596
    Abstract: A seal assembly is provided for a joint between a first pipe segment and a second pipe segment. The seal assembly has at least one primary sealing member mounted on the first flange and at least one supplemental sealing member mounted on the first flange between the first pipe segment and the at least one primary sealing member. A first sealed containment area is formed between the at least one primary and at least one supplemental sealing members when the sealing members are compressed. A plurality of conduits are formed in the first flange. A first supply conduit is located between the at least one primary sealing member and the at least one supplemental sealing member and a return conduit is located so that the at least one primary sealing member is positioned between the supply conduit and the return conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Company
    Inventor: Lannie D. Harrison
  • Patent number: 8210029
    Abstract: A pipeline pressure testing assembly has a fitting defining a flow path and having a port on a wall of the fitting into which a pressure testing device is removably inserted along a central axis of the port for pressure testing. The port is circular, larger than the interior diameter of the pipeline and located at or above the tube forming the flow path through the fitting. The fitting has a recess encircling at least part of the flow path and opening to the port to receive the testing and sealing devices. The recess is formed by two opposing walls inclined relative to the central axis of the recess. The recess walls at the top of the flow path by the port are spaced apart a distance as large as the pipe diameter for cleanout and inspection. A tubular valve stem screws into the testing device and has a rotary valve blocking flow through the tubular valve stem. Flow through the fitting is blocked with the rotary valve closed and the tubular valve stem in a first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Securus, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis L. Hart, Cristobal Gonzalez, Virgil E. O'Neil, Jeffrey A. Jaramillo, Larry D. Brown
  • Patent number: 8205484
    Abstract: A leak testing apparatus 1 includes a heat sensitive member 70 having a body 71 made of a material having high thermal conductivity. The body 71 is abutted against an outer surface of a workpiece 10 to close an opening of an inner space 11 of the workpiece 10. A pressure chamber 73 is formed inside the body 71 as arranged along the outer surface and as arranged over an area wider than the opening. Pressurized gas is introduced to the pressure chamber 73. Data on pressure change in the inner space 11 of the workpiece 10 is compensated based on inner pressure information regarding the pressure chamber 73, and leak judgment is made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Fukuda Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toru Sasaki
  • Publication number: 20120151999
    Abstract: A method is provided for ascertaining the setting of an exhaust gas flap, which is situated so it is adjustable in an exhaust system of a motor vehicle, by which a combustion gas flowing through an exhaust tract can alternately be supplied to a heat exchanger branch and/or a bypass branch, a pressure prevailing in the heat exchanger branch and/or in the bypass branch being measured to ascertain the setting of the exhaust gas flap, and a current position of the exhaust gas flap being ascertained by a comparison of the measured pressure to a reference value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Lothar SEYBOLD, Kai-Ove PIETSCH, Bert MOEHLMANN
  • Patent number: 8122776
    Abstract: An apparatus for checking or monitoring a vacuum drawn by a suction cup used in connection with a material handling system. The apparatus includes a faceplate and a handle connected to the faceplate. The handle includes a vacuum gauge wherein a passageway extends from the vacuum gauge to the faceplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Michael A. Fox
  • Patent number: 8104327
    Abstract: A leak detection method for determining changes in helium concentration over time in an interstitial space between a primary vessel and a secondary vessel. The primary vessel is disposed inside a secondary vessel and charged with helium. An expected concentration of the helium in the interstitial space resulting from permeation of the primary vessel material is calculated and accounted for to determine a leak in the primary vessel. In another embodiment of the leak detection method, air flow is circulated in the interstitial space between the primary and second vessels. An abrupt change in measured concentrations can be used to determine the approximate location of the leak in the primary vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: C.G.R.S. Inc.
    Inventors: Joby L. Adams, Eric L. Hick
  • Patent number: 8096169
    Abstract: A test device for testing the integrity of a seal has a clear t-shaped liquid reservoir with three ends. A guide adapter is connected to the first end of the liquid reservoir and extends axially therefrom along an axis of the reservoir. A shaft adapter is connected to the second end of the body, opposite the first end. A test shaft with first and second ends extends axially through the first and second ends of the body and test and shaft adapters along the axis. The first end of the shaft is adapted to be connected to the rotating shaft of pump assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: John L. Bearden, Steven K. Tetzlaff
  • Publication number: 20120000273
    Abstract: A fixture for evaluating a metal-to-metal seal. A first metal seal surface and a second metal seal surface are brought into initial contact by engagement of a male connection of a first tubular component and a female connection of a second tubular component to form a metal-to-metal seal. A contact pressure regulator is provided to alter the contact load acting in the interfacial region between the first metal seal surface and the second metal seal surface in a predictable manner An inlet passage is provided to communicate test fluid to an inlet side of the metal-to-metal seal. An outlet passage is provided on an outlet side of the metal-to-metal seal. In accordance with the method, a capacity of the metal-to-metal seal is expressed as the pressure differential required to just induce leakage given a measure of absolute contact load greater than zero.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Publication date: January 5, 2012
    Applicant: NOETIC ENGINEERING 2008 INC.
    Inventor: Maurice Slack
  • Publication number: 20110296901
    Abstract: A hydrostatic tester is provided with an elevated test surface allowing tests to be made inside sleeves, pants legs or other hard to reach locations of completed garments. A constant force spring is engaged byway of a straight line clamp to apply pressure and maintain a consistent and constant force on a sandwich seal. A clamping mechanism can be moved to the left or right of test area to provide a clear unobstructed access to position test item. A raised gasket on the test surface prevents hard contact between test surface and seal ring avoiding damage to test items. A blood pressure bulb is used as a pressure source to force water from a reservoir to the test area. A low pressure gauge is positioned for easy viewing to monitor test pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventor: Jim Quentin Nichols
  • Patent number: 8033161
    Abstract: An apparatus for determining the integrity of an antenna system, including a controller, at least one valve operationally connected to the controller, a source of pressurized gas, at least one microwave antenna and a pressure sensor. The at least one microwave antenna is fluidly connected to the pressurized gas by way of the at least one valve. The pressure sensor is in communication with the controller. The pressure sensor senses the pressure of the pressurized gas. The controller is configured to check for a gas leak in the at least one microwave antenna by checking for a change in the pressure with the at least one valve being alternatively opened and closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: MSX, Incorporated
    Inventor: Thaddeus M. Jones
  • Patent number: 8028565
    Abstract: There is described a novel tool and method for the isolation and pressure-testing of connections, such as welds, between a vessel and a nozzle or branch pipe. The nozzle testing tool comprises an improved seal that expands into sealing contact as testing pressure is increased. The tool can also be easily adjusted in order to accommodate variations in nozzle configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Ceda Specialty Mechanical Services, LP
    Inventors: Horst Gotowik, Daniel Bamford, David Bamford
  • Patent number: 8015858
    Abstract: The present invention a portable universal electric radiator cap pressure tester, having a multiple of common radiator cap filler necks fixed on a dash board. The fixed filler necks simulate the filler neck openings on a vehicle's radiator or overflow reservoir. This allows the user the ability to quickly install a common radiator cap on the face of the tool and pressurize the radiator cap to its maximum recommended pressure. This gives the user the knowledge if a used radiator cap will hold its recommend pressure and provide a water tight seal during operation on a vehicle when the engine cooling system is under operating pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Vehicle Enhancement Labs
    Inventor: Michael Philip Green
  • Patent number: 8015859
    Abstract: A method for testing the integrity of welds used to secure a nozzle to a vessel and the like comprises forming a sealed space within the nozzle by providing a blind against the flange and a sealing plate within the vessel and filling the space with a pressurizing fluid. The sealing plate is not biased against the flange. As such, the method of the invention simulates normally occurring axial expansion stresses within the nozzle thereby providing a more accurate test. The apparatus of the invention comprises a blind flange for sealing the flange face and a back plate for positioning against the inner surface of the vessel. The apparatus includes a biasing means for urging the back plate against the vessel wall. In one embodiment, the biasing means includes a front plate located outside of the vessel and connected to the back plate. In another embodiment, the biasing means comprises a plurality of magnets for engaging the vessel wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: CAR-BER Investments Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn Carson
  • Patent number: 7997120
    Abstract: A method for pressure testing a threaded component is provided. A cap includes a female threading that is matched with a threading of a first male threaded element. The cap is made up onto the first male threaded element of a component to be tested so as to compress a sealing ring between metal surfaces of the first element and the cap, and a test pressure is established inside the component. The male element has an annular lip which is capable of deforming radially outwardly under the effect of the test pressure. Between a radially outward surface of the lip and a facing surface of the cap, at the end of makeup there exists a clearance having a value which has been selected sufficiently small so that, under the effect of the test pressure, the lip bears on said facing surface without undergoing plastic deformation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: Vallourec Mannesmann Oil & Gas France
    Inventor: Pierre Dutilleul
  • Patent number: 7950272
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting the sealability of a lithium ion cell comprises a container which is filled with a detecting liquid, a clamp and a high-pressure-gas joint member. The clamp can carry a lithium ion cell to be detected and put it into said container. One end of the high-pressure-gas joint member is connected to an injecting hole of the lithium ion cell to be detected and the other end is connected to a high-pressure gas supply. The detecting apparatus also comprises an elevator which can move the lithium ion cell into and out the detecting liquid within the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Shenzhen Bak Battery Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Junfeng Zhao
  • Publication number: 20110048112
    Abstract: A method for testing the integrity of welds used to secure a nozzle to a vessel and the like comprises forming a sealed space within the nozzle by providing a blind against the flange and a sealing plate within the vessel and filling the space with a pressurizing fluid. The sealing plate is not biased against the flange. As such, the method of the invention simulates normally occurring axial expansion stresses within the nozzle thereby providing a more accurate test. The apparatus of the invention comprises a blind flange for sealing the flange face and a back plate for positioning against the inner surface of the vessel. The apparatus includes a biasing means for urging the back plate against the vessel wall. In one embodiment, the biasing means includes a front plate located outside of the vessel and connected to the back plate. In another embodiment, the biasing means comprises a plurality of magnets for engaging the vessel wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: CAR-BER Investments Inc.
    Inventor: Glenn CARSON
  • Patent number: 7861875
    Abstract: A seal for sealing against the interior of a tube includes upper and lower rigid plates with flexible plates between them, which are compressed to form a seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: TubeMaster, Inc.
    Inventors: Clifford L. Johns, Daniel D. Sympson, August M. Dattilo, III, Munaf Najmuddin Chasmawala, Manfred Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20100326174
    Abstract: An external hydrostatic tester for testing welds on a pipe includes a tester body having a first portion and a second portion, each of the first and second portions having a first side, a second side, and an inner surface. The first and second portions are movable between a released position and a connected position. A testing cavity on the inner surface of first portion and second portion has a port for supplying pressurized fluid and is connected to a pressure sensor. Seals positioned on the inner surface of the tester body seal against a pipe and an adjustable compression member compresses the seals against the pipe at selected locations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: Leon MYRICK
  • 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