Apparatus and method for sealing tubes
US4976307A · kind A · utility
11Cited by
4References
18Claims
0Family size
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 17, 1988 |
| Grant date | Dec 11, 1990 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 17, 2008 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49865
- WIPO fieldThermal processes and apparatus
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A plug member adapted for insertion into a tube end seals about its periphery in response to a predetermined activation to prevent fluid flow through the tube. In one embodiment, the plug contains annular rings that expand radially outwardly in response to thermal excitation. In an alternate embodiment, a welding material is forced about the plug periphery to seal with the interior surface of a tube in response to a predetermined activation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.