Apparatus and method for electrofusion welding of reinforced thermosetting resin pipe joints
US11761571B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 20, 2021 |
| Grant date | Sep 19, 2023 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 20, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB29L2031/24
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system for coupling pipes includes a first pipe having a tapered, spigot end; a second pipe having a tapered, spigot end; and a coupler having two tapered socket ends adapted to internally receive the respective tapered, spigot ends of the first pipe and the second pipe. The first pipe and the second pipe are made from a reinforced thermosetting resin (RTR). The coupler comprising a resistive element implanted therein and connected to electrodes extending to an exterior of the coupler. A thermoplastic material is disposed between an exterior of the first pipe and an interior of the coupler. A thermoplastic material is disposed between an exterior of the second pipe and the interior of the coupler. Upon application of electricity to the electrodes, the resistive elements are heated sufficiently to melt the thermoplastic material such that, when the heat is removed, the hardened thermoplastic material seals the first pipe and the second pipe to the coupler. A method of coupling pipes includes disposing a thermoplastic material between an exterior of a first pipe and an interior of a coupler; disposing a thermoplastic material between an exterior of a second pipe and the interior of…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.