Flow system disconnect and method
US5320133A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 18, 1993 |
| Grant date | Jun 14, 1994 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 18, 2013 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T137/87957
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An improved system and method are provided for normally interconnecting a stationary flow line and a flexible flow line, and for automatically separating the flow lines in response to movement of the flexible flow line in excess of a preselected limit. A connection comprises a socket housing sealed to one flow line and a ball housing sealed to another flow line. The housings are separated automatically when a lateral force is transmitted through the flexible flow line to cause excess pivoting movement of one housing related to the other housing. The connection of the present invention is particularly useful for preventing rupture of a flow line during an intermittent pullaway of a portable vessel with respect to a stationary holding tank. In one embodiment, the connection includes at least three ball swivel surfaces for mating engagement with a socket swivel surface. Valve members in each of the housings are held out of engagement with respective seating surfaces when the housings are mated, and automatically close to prevent fluid loss when the housings separate. A seal is provided for maintaining sealed engagement between the ball housing and socket housing when the ball housing …
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.