Lockable rigid connector for pipe and method of making the same
US4120520A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 4, 1977 |
| Grant date | Oct 17, 1978 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 4, 1997 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L17/10
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A pipe connector has a pin initially stabbed into a box, the pin and box then being axially loaded together at confronting transverse surfaces while the pin and box are pressurized to expand the box and compress the pin, so that when the pressure is relieved a pressure energized shrink fit is provided and the connector is rendered rigid to enhance tensile, compressive and bending strength and provide a fluid tight joint useful in making up lengths of pipe such as piles and pipelines. Locking means are installed while the connector is pressurized, is axially loaded by a loading tool and before pressure is relieved, the locking means engaging between opposed pin and box shoulders to retain the pin in compression and the box in tension when the pressure is relieved and the loading tool removed. The locking means is a wire, discs, balls or a split ring.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.