Apparatus and method for separating flanges
US8322009B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 3, 2006 |
| Grant date | Dec 4, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 27, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/53683
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for separating or spreading flanges of pipes is disclosed and includes two bolt hole engaging devices and a force transmission system. The force transmission system selectively couples with a bolt hole engaging device and is capable of exerting a force thereon for selective movement of the flanges relative to one another. The bolt hole engaging device comprises an expandable member that is arranged to be at least partially accommodated within the bolt hole before expansion, and an expander means arranged to expand the expandable member such that at least a portion of an outer surface of the expandable member is expanded to contact the bolt hole. The expander means may include at least one wedge shaped member and an actuator means for causing relative movement between the wedge shaped member and the expandable member.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.