Hydraulically operated misalignment connector
US4153278A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 19, 1977 |
| Grant date | May 8, 1979 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 19, 1997 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S285/92
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A misalignment connector for large pipelines, conductor pipes or the like, includes an internal, metal seal ring having an external spherical periphery which is axially and circumferentially loaded between opposed internal spherical surfaces of connector structures which are operable by hydraulic piston and cylinder means to be interconnected over a range of angular misalignment. The internal sealing ring is preloaded when the connector parts are secured together. Initially, the internal sealing ring is supported in or nearly in engagement with one of the companion spherical surfaces of the connector parts for proper engagement and angular motion upon the interconnection of the connector parts over the permissible angular range of misalignment. The connector is made up by the application of fluid pressure to the actuator cylinder and piston means after the connector parts have been stabbed together. Radially shiftable locking elements are wedged towards one another by the action of the actuator cylinders. In some forms, the locking elements themselves have spherical surfaces engageable with a spherical surface of a connector hub. In another form, the locking member acts against a r…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.