Electrofusion fittings and methods
US9377148B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 12, 2013 |
| Grant date | Jun 28, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 12, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L2201/30
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Improvements to electrofusion fittings that enable the integrity of a weld between an electrofusion fitting and a pipe lining (or stand-alone pipe) to be tested in the field, and corresponding methods of installation and testing. An electrofusion fitting for joining sections of lined pipe has heating elements configured to create at least one weld between the electrofusion fitting and a pipe lining, and a channel provides fluid access to a test region between the electrofusion fitting and the pipe lining to allow leak testing to be performed. The channel may be provided through the fitting itself, or alternatively through the pipe lining. Methods of fabricating or laying pipeline may incorporate use of the improved fitting whether using length-by-length construction methods or joining subsequent reel-laid or towed-in pipe lengths. A closed bevel welding approach, permitting high speed automatic pipeline welding processes to be employed, is described in which the closed bevel is drilled through to allow access there through for providing leak testing and/or electrical power to the heating elements.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.