Thread protector apparatus
US4379471A · kind A · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 15, 1980 |
| Grant date | Apr 12, 1983 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 15, 2000 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L57/005
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A thread protector apparatus is disclosed for drill pipe. The apparatus is similarly constructed for both male and female threads. The apparatus utilizes an encircling tubular member which is spaced away from and concentric with the threaded portion of the drill pipe. At the edge of the tubular portion next to the end of the pipe, it is turned radially outwardly. The tubular portion supports a layer of resilient material adjacent to the threads. The resilient material is jammed against the threads by a wedge-shaped member which latches against the tubular member. The tubular member is provided with a number of tabs which protrude outwardly along angled directions to receive the tapered lock member. The tabs are adjacent a parallel protective ridge. The tapered lock is slidably inserted and removed. The tapered lock member has angled edges which match the angled directions of the upset members. For both male and female versions of the apparatus, a cup-shaped end closure is disclosed. The end closure prevents the entry of fluid, trash or products in the drill pipe while it is in storage.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.