Internal junction reinforcement and method of use
US6253846A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 23, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jul 3, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 23, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L55/179
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
An internal junction stabilizer is formed with an outer dimension less than the internal bore of a junction to be strengthened The stabilizer is inserted into the junction, and expanded into tight fit. Multiple stabilizers may be expanded one inside another to form a laminate for reinforcement in high pressure applications. Each layer of metal expanded to the next outermost section provides an additive effective on the mechanical properties of the junction. Expansion can be performed in a number of ways, including mechanical, hydraulic, explosive methods. Use of directional or selective swaging can be used to further effect a fit. Further embodiments of the invention include the use of sealing compounds, elastomers, and plastics to effect a hydraulic seal and fill gaps for strength purposes.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.