Coupling and seal
阅读说明:本技术 联接件和密封件 (Coupling and seal ) 是由 K.J.布利斯 J.P.布兰德特 C.汉尼 S.A.沃特曼 D.R.多尔 于 2015-09-03 设计创作,主要内容包括:用于端对端地连接管元件的机械联接件具有容纳环圈密封件的通道。该通道由相对设置的侧壁限定并且环圈密封件在相对侧上具有凸瓣。这些凸瓣具有面向通道的侧表面的表面。当环圈密封件置于通道内时,每个凸瓣表面与相应的侧表面接触使得凸瓣朝向通道的中心而向内变形。(A mechanical coupling for joining pipe elements end-to-end has a channel that receives a ring seal. The channel is defined by oppositely disposed sidewalls and the ring seal has lobes on opposite sides. The lobes have surfaces facing the side surfaces of the channel. When the ring seal is placed in the channel, each lobe surface contacts a respective side surface such that the lobes deform inwardly toward the center of the channel.)
1. A coupling for connecting pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, said coupling comprising:
a plurality of segments attached to one another end-to-end and surrounding a central space, each of the segments having a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space, each of the channels being defined by first and second side surfaces on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces;
a seal positioned within the central space, the seal comprising a ring having first and second lobes positioned on opposite sides of the ring, the first lobe having a first lobe surface facing toward the first side surface and the second lobe having a second lobe surface facing toward the second side surface, the first lobe surface being angularly oriented relative to the first side surface and the second lobe surface being angularly oriented relative to the second side surface when the seal is in the undeformed shape; wherein
When the first and second petals are engaged with the tube element, at least a portion of the first and second petal surfaces are in contact with the side surface such that the petals will deform toward the center of the channel when the ring is placed within the channel; and
a connecting member positioned at one end of each of the segments, the connecting members on the segments being adjustably tightenable for drawing the segments toward each other and placing the ring within the channel, thereby deforming the seal.
2. A coupling for connecting pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, said coupling comprising:
a plurality of segments attached to one another end-to-end and surrounding a central space, each of the segments having a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space, each of the channels being defined by first and second side surfaces on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces;
a seal positioned within the central space, the seal comprising a ring having at least one lobe positioned on a side of the ring, the at least one lobe having a lobe surface facing the first side surface, the lobe surface being angularly oriented relative to the first side surface when the seal is in the undeformed shape; wherein
When the at least one petal is engaged with the tube element, at least a portion of the petal surface is in contact with the first side surface such that the at least one petal will deform toward the center of the channel when the ring is placed within the channel; and
connecting members positioned at opposite ends of each of the segments, the connecting members being adjustably tightenable for drawing the segments toward one another and placing the loops within the channels, thereby deforming the at least one flap.
3. A coupling for connecting pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, said coupling comprising:
a plurality of segments attached to one another end-to-end and surrounding a central space, each of the segments having a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space, each of the channels being defined by first and second side surfaces on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces;
a seal positioned within the central space, the seal comprising a ring having first and second lobes positioned on opposite sides of the ring, the first lobe having a first lobe surface facing toward the first side surface and the second lobe having a second lobe surface facing toward the second side surface; wherein
When the first and second petals are engaged with the tube element, the seal is in an undeformed state with at least a portion of the first and second petal surfaces being wider than a widest distance between the first and second side surfaces such that the petals will deform toward a center of the channel when the ring is positioned within the channel; and
connecting members positioned at opposite ends of each of the segments, the connecting members being adjustably tightenable for drawing the segments toward one another and placing the girdle within the channel, thereby deforming the flap.
4. The coupling according to claim 3, wherein said first lobe surface is angularly oriented with respect to said first side surface and said second lobe surface is angularly oriented with respect to said second side surface when said seal is in said undeformed shape.
5. The coupling according to claim 3, wherein said first and second lobe surfaces comprise convexly curved surfaces when said seal is in said undeformed shape.
6. The coupling according to claim 5, wherein said first and second side surfaces comprise convexly curved surfaces.
7. The coupling according to claim 3, wherein said first and second side surfaces comprise convexly curved surfaces.
8. A coupling for connecting pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, said coupling comprising:
a plurality of segments attached to one another end-to-end and surrounding a central space, each of the segments having a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space, each of the channels being defined by first and second side surfaces on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces;
a seal positioned within the central space, the seal comprising a ring having first and second lobes positioned on opposite sides of the ring, the first lobe having a first lobe surface facing toward the first side surface and the second lobe having a second lobe surface facing toward the second side surface;
a first gland attached to the first lobe and a second gland attached to the second lobe, the first and second glands extending circumferentially around the annular ring, the first gland having a first sealing surface and the second gland having a second sealing surface, the first and second sealing surfaces facing the central space; wherein
When the sealing surface is engaged with the pipe element, the first lobe surface is angularly oriented relative to the first side surface and the second lobe surface is angularly oriented relative to the second side surface such that the lobes will deform toward the center of the passage when the annular ring is placed within the passage; and
connecting members positioned at opposite ends of each of the segments, the connecting members being adjustably tightenable for drawing the segments toward one another and placing the girdle within the channel, thereby deforming the flap.
9. The coupling according to claim 8, wherein said connecting member on each of said segments comprises a pair of projections, one said projection being located on each of said opposite ends of said segments, said projections having holes for receiving fasteners that can be adjustably tightened.
10. The coupling according to claim 8, wherein said coupling comprises two of said segments.
11. The coupling according to claim 8, wherein said first lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to said first side surface.
12. The coupling according to claim 11, wherein said orientation angle of said first lobe surface is 8 °.
13. The coupling according to claim 11, wherein said second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to said second side surface.
14. The coupling according to claim 13, wherein said orientation angle of said second lobe surface is 8 °.
15. The coupling according to claim 8, wherein said second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to said second side surface.
16. The coupling according to claim 15, wherein said orientation angle of said second lobe surface is 8 °.
17. The coupling according to claim 8, wherein said seal is formed of a rubber material.
18. The coupling according to claim 8, wherein said seal is formed of a material having a low elasticity.
19. The coupling according to claim 18, wherein said seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 0.05% to 20%.
20. The coupling according to claim 18, wherein said seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 0.5% to 10%.
21. The coupling according to claim 18, wherein said seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 1% to 5%.
22. The coupling according to claim 18, wherein said material having a low elasticity is selected from the group consisting of: thermoplastic resins, thermoset materials, epoxy resins, and composite materials including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polystyrene, acetal, acrylate, fluoropolymer, and combinations thereof.
23. The coupling according to claim 8, wherein each said segment further comprises first and second keys positioned on opposite sides of said segment, each said key extending circumferentially around said central space and projecting toward an axis extending through said central space.
24. The coupling according to claim 23, wherein said first key on each of said segments is positioned in spaced relation to said first side surface of said segment.
25. The coupling according to claim 24, wherein said second key on each said segment is positioned in spaced relation to said second side surface of said segment.
26. The coupling according to claim 23, wherein each said key comprises an arcuate surface facing said axis.
27. The coupling according to claim 8, further comprising:
a first spring element positioned on the first gland opposite the first sealing surface;
a second spring element positioned on the second gland opposite the second sealing surface, the spring element extending circumferentially around the ring and biasing the first and second sealing surfaces toward the central space.
28. In combination, first and second pipe elements and a coupling for connecting said pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, said coupling comprising:
a plurality of segments attached to one another end to end and surrounding a central space within which the pipe element is received, each segment having a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space, each channel being defined by first and second side surfaces on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces;
a seal positioned within the central space, the seal comprising a ring encircling the pipe element, the ring having first and second lobes positioned on opposite sides of the ring, the first lobe having a first lobe surface facing toward the first side surface and the second lobe having a second lobe surface facing toward the second side surface;
a first gland attached to the first lobe and a second gland attached to the second lobe, the first and second glands extending circumferentially around the annular ring, the first gland having a first sealing surface and the second gland having a second sealing surface, the first and second sealing surfaces facing the central space; wherein
When the sealing surface is engaged with the pipe element, the first lobe surface is angularly oriented relative to the first side surface and the second lobe surface is angularly oriented relative to the second side surface such that the lobes will deform toward the center of the passage when the annular ring is placed within the passage; and
connecting members positioned at opposite ends of each of the segments, the connecting members being adjustably tightenable for drawing the segments toward one another and placing the girdle within the channel, thereby deforming the flap.
29. The combination of claim 28, wherein said connecting member on each of said segments comprises a pair of tabs, one said tab being located on each of said opposite ends of said segments, said tabs having holes for receiving fasteners that can be adjustably tightened.
30. The combination of claim 28, wherein the coupling comprises two of the segments.
31. The combination of claim 28, wherein the first lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to the first side surface.
32. The combination of claim 31, wherein the orientation angle of the first lobe surface is 8 °.
33. The combination of claim 31, wherein the second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to the second side surface.
34. The combination of claim 33, wherein the orientation angle of the second lobe surface is 8 °.
35. The combination of claim 28, wherein the second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to the second side surface.
36. The combination of claim 35, wherein the orientation angle of the second lobe surface is 8 °.
37. The combination of claim 28, wherein the seal is formed of a rubber material.
38. The combination of claim 28, wherein the seal is formed of a material having a low elasticity.
39. The combination of claim 38, wherein the seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 0.05% to 20%.
40. The combination of claim 38, wherein the seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 0.5% to 10%.
41. The combination of claim 38, wherein the seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 1% to 5%.
42. The combination of claim 38, wherein the material having low elasticity is selected from the group consisting of: thermoplastic resins, thermosets, epoxies, and composites including, but not limited to: polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polystyrene, acetal, acrylate, fluoropolymer, and combinations thereof.
43. The combination of claim 28, wherein each of the segments further comprises first and second keys positioned on opposite sides of the segment, each of the keys extending circumferentially around the central space and protruding toward an axis extending through the central space.
44. The combination of claim 43, wherein said first key on each of said segments is positioned in spaced relation to said first side surface of said segment.
45. The combination of claim 44, wherein said second key on each of said segments is positioned in spaced relation to said second side surface of said segment.
46. The combination of claim 43, wherein each of said keys includes an arcuate surface facing said axis.
47. A combination according to claim 43, wherein each said pipe element includes a respective circumferential groove located proximate an end of each said pipe element, said keys engaging said grooves when said connecting members are adjustably tightened.
48. The combination of claim 28, further comprising a first gland attached to the first lobe and a second gland attached to the second lobe, the first and second glands extending circumferentially around the annular ring, the first gland having a first sealing surface facing the central space, the second gland having a second sealing surface facing the central space, the sealing surfaces defining an inner diameter substantially equal to an outer diameter of the pipe element.
49. The combination of claim 48, further comprising:
a first spring element positioned on the first gland opposite the first sealing surface;
a second spring element positioned on the second gland opposite the second sealing surface, the spring element extending circumferentially around the collar and biasing the first and second sealing surfaces toward the pipe element.
50. The combination of claim 28, further comprising a first gland attached to the first lobe and a second gland attached to the second lobe, the first and second glands extending circumferentially around the annular ring, the first gland having a first sealing surface facing the central space, the second gland having a second sealing surface facing the central space, the sealing surfaces defining an inner diameter greater than an outer diameter of the pipe element when the seal is in the undeformed state.
51. The combination of claim 50, wherein the inner diameter defined by the sealing surface exceeds the outer diameter of the pipe element by 0.001 to 0.3 inches when the seal is in the undeformed shape.
52. The combination of claim 50, wherein the inner diameter defined by the sealing surface exceeds the outer diameter of the pipe element by 0.05 inches when the seal is in the undeformed shape.
53. The combination of claim 50, further comprising:
a first spring element positioned on the first gland opposite the first sealing surface;
a second spring element positioned on the second gland opposite the second sealing surface, the spring element extending circumferentially around the collar and biasing the first and second sealing surfaces toward the pipe element.
54. A method of joining together a first pipe element and a second pipe element in end-to-end relationship, said method comprising:
supporting at least a first segment and a second segment in spaced apart relation to each other on a seal, the seal including a ring in a central space surrounded by the segments, the at least first and second segments being attached to each other end-to-end, each of the at least first and second segments having a circumferential channel, the girdle having first and second circumferential lobes on opposite sides of the girdle being received within the circumferential channel, the first and second circumferential lobes having respective first and second lobe surfaces facing the first and second side surfaces, respectively, the first and second side surfaces defining the circumferential channel, the first lobe surface being angularly oriented with respect to the first side surface, the second lobe surface being angularly oriented with respect to the second side surface;
axially inserting the first and second pipe elements into the central space and engaging the first and second pipe elements with the first and second circumferential lobes, respectively, on opposite sides of the annular ring while maintaining the first lobe surfaces angularly oriented relative to the first side surface and the second lobe surfaces angularly oriented relative to the second side surface;
pulling the at least first and second segments toward the central space, thereby deforming the loop so as to substantially align the first lobe surface with the first side surface and the second lobe surface with the second side surface.
55. The method of claim 54 wherein each of the at least first and second segments includes first and second keys positioned on opposite sides of the segment, each of the keys extending circumferentially around the pipe element and projecting toward the pipe element, the method further comprising engaging the keys with the pipe element when the at least first and second segments are pulled toward each other.
56. The method of claim 55 further comprising engaging the key within circumferential grooves in the first and second pipe elements.
57. A method of joining together a first pipe element and a second pipe element in end-to-end relationship, said method comprising:
inserting the first and second pipe elements into a central space surrounded by a seal, the seal comprising a ring having first and second circumferential lobes on opposite sides of the ring;
encircling the ring by at least first and second segments of a coupling, each of the segments having a circumferential channel within which the ring is received, the first and second lobes having respective first and second lobe surfaces facing first and second side surfaces, respectively, the first and second side surfaces defining the circumferential channel, the first lobe surface being angularly oriented with respect to the first side surface, the second lobe surface being angularly oriented with respect to the second side surface, with the first and second pipe elements engaging the first and second circumferential lobes;
pulling the at least first and second segments toward each other, thereby deforming the loop so as to substantially align the first lobe surface with the first side surface and the second lobe surface with the second side surface.
58. The method of claim 57 wherein each of the at least first and second segments includes first and second keys positioned on opposite sides of the segment, each of the keys extending circumferentially around the pipe element and projecting toward the pipe element, the method further comprising engaging the keys with the pipe element when the at least first and second segments are pulled toward each other.
59. The method of claim 58, further comprising engaging the key within circumferential grooves in the first and second pipe elements.
Technical Field
The present invention relates to mechanical couplings for joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship and to seals associated with such couplings.
Background
Mechanical couplings for joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship typically bridge the pipe elements using hoop seals that are compressed between the segments of the coupling and the pipe elements to ensure fluid tightness of the mechanical connection. Positioning the ring seal around the pipe elements can be challenging when the seal is made of a non-elastomeric material, such as thermoplastic or polymeric composites, as well as metals, composites, and combinations thereof, that are suitable for extreme (high and low) temperature operation where traditional elastomeric materials are not suitable. Loop seals made from such compounds or metals tend to be relatively stiff, having low elasticity and low resiliency, particularly when compared to seals made from elastomeric materials such as synthetic and natural rubber compounds.
The outer diameter of any commercial pipe of a particular gauge will vary (both larger and smaller) around the nominal value within acceptable manufacturing tolerances. As such, there are manufacturing tolerances that cause variability in the diameter of the surface of the ring seal that interfaces with the pipe elements, as well as the diameter of the inner surface of the coupling housing that engages the seal and creates the compressive force necessary to create a fluid tight connection. To make certain that such connections are fluid tight, practical embodiments of mechanical couplings are typically designed with significant radial compressive deformation of the seal such that there is sufficient sealing force over the entire combined range of manufacturing tolerances of the seal, coupling and pipe elements, particularly under conditions where the outer diameter of the pipe elements is at the lower end of their tolerance range and the inner diameters of the seal and coupling are at the upper end of their respective tolerance range. To accommodate this significant radial compressive deformation, the seal material is selected to be able to withstand this deformation without buckling or flexing, while still maintaining sufficient resiliency and elasticity. Ideally, such a material would have a relatively low modulus of elasticity (modulus of elasticity being the relationship between the deformation of the material and the force required to cause that deformation), ensuring that the high radial compressive deformation required for the mechanical coupling seal can be applied by common mechanisms, such as with bolts, and that the coupling does not need to be made of unrealistically heavy parts and strong materials in order to withstand these forces. Such materials are generally highly elastic, meaning that such materials can undergo significant gross deformation before the material itself fails. Therefore, highly elastic materials (such as elastomers) with relatively low elastic moduli are commonly used in this context because they have the ability to accommodate this high degree of radial compressive deformation with moderate applied forces without damaging the material and without distortion or warping of the seal in a manner that would compromise its effectiveness. However, such sealing materials have disadvantages, such as limited resistance to high or low temperature environments or to certain chemicals. Alternative sealing materials (such as metals, thermoplastics, fluoropolymers or composites) provide improved performance for a wider variety of fluids and in these high or low temperature environments, but such materials typically have significantly higher elastic moduli to engage lower elasticity, resiliency, and the ability to withstand the deformation required to ensure effective sealing within the combined tolerances of the seals, couplings, and pipe elements without damaging the materials. The large forces required to exert the required radial compression on these alternative materials may not be readily achievable without, for example, excessive bolt torque, because these alternative materials have a higher modulus of elasticity. Even if such large forces can be applied, seals made from such alternative materials may not readily accommodate these forces, and may warp or flex, thereby compromising the effectiveness of the seal. To accommodate these large forces and to attempt to prevent the seal from warping or flexing enough to compromise the effectiveness of the seal, the coupling housing needs to be made stiffer and heavier. The relatively low elasticity of these alternative materials may not allow them to withstand the large deformations required for the mechanical coupling seal without damaging the material itself. One way to attempt to overcome the challenges associated with such alternative materials in mechanical couplings that must remain fluid tight within the combined manufacturing tolerances is to attempt to reduce the effects of these combined tolerances by closely machining the coupling, seal box and pipe elements. Another approach is to design the seal to have a maximum inner diameter that is less than the minimum acceptable outer diameter of the pipe element for which it is designed because this initial interference can reduce the amount of radial compressive deformation required. However, precision machining is costly (often impractical to perform in the field) and limits the types of pipe elements that can be used for machining. In addition, it is difficult for the technician to install seals made from these alternative materials over pipe elements having an outer diameter that is larger than the inner diameter of the seal. Due to this initial interference, along with the relatively high modulus of elasticity of these materials, difficulties arise when it is necessary to position the seal around the pipe elements with significant force. Such forces may not be easily applied manually and may result in damage to the sealing surfaces or require special equipment and techniques in order to effect the installation, resulting in less realistic and less reliable connections. There is clearly an opportunity to improve the sealing of the connection provided by the mechanical coupling, in particular for wider chemical compatibility and for high or low temperature applications employing seals made of alternative materials with relatively high modulus of elasticity, lower elasticity and lower resilience.
Disclosure of Invention
The present invention relates to couplings for joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship. In one example embodiment, the coupling comprises a plurality of segments attached to each other end-to-end and surrounding a central space. Each segment has a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space. Each channel is defined by first and second side surfaces located on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces. A seal is positioned within the central space. In this example, the seal includes a ring having first and second lobes (lobes) positioned on opposite sides of the ring. The first lobe has a first lobe surface facing toward the first side surface, and the second lobe has a second lobe surface facing toward the second side surface. When the seal is placed within the channel, at least a portion of the first and second lobe surfaces contact the sidewall such that the lobes deform toward the center of the channel. In this example, a connecting member is positioned at one end of each segment. The connecting members on each segment can be adjustably tightened for pulling the segments toward each other and placing the ring within the channel, thereby deforming the seal.
In a particular example, the first lobe surface is angularly oriented with respect to the first side surface and the second lobe surface is angularly oriented with respect to the second side surface when the seal is in the undeformed shape. By way of further example, the first and second lobe surfaces comprise convexly curved surfaces when the seal is in the undeformed shape. In further examples, the first and second side surfaces comprise convexly curved surfaces. In yet another example, the first and second side surfaces comprise convexly curved surfaces.
In another example coupling for connecting pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, the coupling includes a plurality of segments attached to one another end-to-end and surrounding a central space. Each segment has a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space. Each channel is defined by first and second side surfaces located on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces. A seal is positioned within the central space. The seal includes a ring having at least one lobe positioned on a side of the ring, the at least one lobe having a lobe surface facing the first side surface. When the seal is placed within the channel, at least a portion of the lobe surface is in contact with the first sidewall such that at least one lobe is deformed toward the center of the channel. Connecting members are positioned at opposite ends of each segment. The connecting members can be adjustably tightened for pulling the segments toward each other and placing the loops within the channels, thereby deforming the valve.
Another example coupling for connecting pipe elements in end-to-end relation includes a plurality of segments attached to one another end-to-end and surrounding a central space. Each segment has a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space. Each channel is defined by first and second side surfaces located on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces. A seal is positioned within the central space. The seal includes a ring having first and second lobes positioned on opposite sides of the ring, the first lobe having a first lobe surface facing toward the first side surface and the second lobe having a second lobe surface facing toward the second side surface. At least a portion of the first and second lobe surfaces are wider than a widest distance between the first and second side surfaces when the seal is in an undeformed state. Connecting members are positioned at opposite ends of each segment. The connecting members can be adjustably tightened for pulling the segments toward each other and placing the loops within the channels, thereby deforming the valve.
In certain example embodiments, the first lobe surface is angularly oriented with respect to the first side surface and the second lobe surface is angularly oriented with respect to the second side surface when the seal is in the undeformed shape. By way of further example, the first and second lobe surfaces comprise convexly curved surfaces when the seal is in the undeformed shape. In another example, the first and second side surfaces comprise convexly curved surfaces. By way of example, the first and second side surfaces comprise convexly curved surfaces.
In another example coupling for connecting pipe elements in end-to-end relationship, the coupling includes a plurality of segments attached to one another end-to-end and surrounding a central space. Each segment has a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space. Each channel is defined by first and second side surfaces located on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces. A seal is positioned within the central space. The seal includes a ring having first and second lobes positioned on opposite sides of the ring. The first lobe has a first lobe surface facing toward the first side surface, and the second lobe has a second lobe surface facing toward the second side surface. When the seal is in an undeformed state, the first lobe surface is angularly oriented relative to the first side surface and the second lobe surface is angularly oriented relative to the second side surface. Connecting members are positioned at opposite ends of each segment. The connecting members can be adjustably tightened for pulling the segments toward each other and placing the loops within the channels, thereby deforming the valve.
In a particular example, the connecting member on each segment includes a pair of tabs, one tab located on each opposing end of the segment, the tabs having holes for receiving fasteners that can be adjustably tightened. By way of example, the coupling comprises two of the segments. In a particular example, the first lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to the first side surface. In another example, the first lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 8 °. Further by way of example, the second lobe is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to the second side surface. In yet another example, the second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 8 °. In an example, the second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to the second side surface. In a specific example, the second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 8 °.
By way of example, the seal is formed from a rubber material. In another example embodiment, the seal is formed of a material having a low elasticity. By way of example, the seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 0.05% to 20%. In another example, the seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 0.5% to 10%. In yet another example, the seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 1% to 5%.
In an example embodiment, the material having low elasticity is selected from the group consisting of: thermoplastic resins, thermoset materials, epoxy resins, and composite materials including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamides, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polystyrene, acetals, acrylates, fluoropolymers, and combinations thereof.
In an example embodiment, each segment further comprises first and second keys positioned on opposite sides of the segment. Each key extends circumferentially around the central space and protrudes towards an axis extending through the central space. In an example, the first key on each segment is positioned in spaced relation to the first side surface of that segment. In further examples, the second key on each segment is positioned in spaced relation to the second side surface of the segment. By way of example, each key includes an arcuate surface facing the axis.
In further examples, a first gland (gland) is attached to the first lobe and a second gland is attached to the second lobe, the first and second glands extending circumferentially around the annular ring. The first gland has a first sealing surface, the second gland has a second sealing surface, and the first and second sealing surfaces face the central space.
Example embodiments further include: a first spring element positioned on the first gland opposite the first sealing surface; and a second spring element positioned on the second gland opposite the second sealing surface. The spring element extends circumferentially around the collar and biases the first and second sealing surfaces toward the central space.
The invention further comprises the combination of first and second pipe elements and a coupling for connecting the pipe elements in end-to-end relationship. In an example embodiment, the coupling comprises a plurality of segments attached to each other end-to-end and surrounding a central space. The pipe element is accommodated in the central space. Each segment has a channel extending circumferentially around and facing the central space. Each channel is defined by first and second side surfaces located on opposite sides of the segment and a rear surface extending between the side surfaces. A seal is positioned within the central space. The seal comprises a ring encircling the pipe element. The girdle has first and second lobes positioned on opposite sides of the girdle. The first lobe has a first lobe surface facing toward the first side surface, and the second lobe has a second lobe surface facing toward the second side surface. When the seal is in an undeformed state, the first lobe surface is angularly oriented relative to the first side surface and the second lobe surface is angularly oriented relative to the second side surface. Connecting members are positioned at opposite ends of each segment. The connecting members can be adjustably tightened for pulling the segments toward each other and placing the loops within the channels, thereby deforming the valve.
In an example combination, a pair of tabs are provided on the connecting member on each segment, one tab being located on each opposite end of the segment, the tabs having holes for receiving fasteners that can be adjustably tightened. By way of example, the coupling comprises two of the segments. In an example embodiment, the first lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° with respect to the first side surface. In a specific example, the first lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 8 °. In another example, the second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 1 ° to 20 ° relative to the second side surface. In a specific example, the second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 8 °. By way of example, the second lobe surface has an orientation angle with respect to the second side surface of 1 ° to 20 °. In a specific example, the second lobe surface is oriented at an angle of 8 °.
In one example embodiment, the seal is formed from a rubber material. In another example, the seal is formed from a material having a low elasticity. In a particular example, the seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 0.05% to 20%. By way of further example, the seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 0.5% to 10%. In certain example embodiments, the seal is formed from a material having an elastic limit of 1% to 5%.
By way of example, the material having a low elasticity is selected from the group consisting of: thermoplastic resins, thermoset materials, epoxy resins, and composite materials including, but not limited to, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide, polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polystyrene, acetal, acrylate, fluoropolymer, and combinations thereof.
In an example embodiment, each segment further comprises first and second keys positioned on opposite sides of the segment. Each key extends circumferentially around the central space and protrudes towards an axis extending through the central space. By way of example, the first key on each segment is positioned in spaced relation to the first side surface of that segment. In further examples, the second key on each segment is positioned in spaced relation to the second side surface of the segment. In another example, each key includes an arcuate surface facing the axis. In another example embodiment, each pipe element includes a respective circumferential groove located proximate an end of each pipe element, the key engaging the groove when the coupling member is adjustably tightened.
In an example combination, a first gland is attached to the first lobe and a second gland is attached to the second lobe. The first and second glands extend circumferentially around the ring. The first gland has a first sealing surface facing the central space. The second gland has a second sealing surface facing the central space. The sealing surface defines an inner diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the pipe element.
By way of example, the combination further comprises: a first spring element positioned on the first gland opposite the first sealing surface. A second spring element is positioned on the second gland opposite the second sealing surface. The spring element extends circumferentially around the collar and biases the first and second sealing surfaces towards the pipe element.
In another example embodiment, a first gland is attached to the first lobe and a second gland is attached to the second lobe. The first and second glands extend circumferentially around the ring. The first gland has a first sealing surface facing the central space, the second gland has a second sealing surface facing the central space and defining an inner diameter greater than the outer diameter of the pipe element when the seal is in an undeformed state.
In a particular example embodiment, an inner diameter defined by the sealing surface exceeds an outer diameter of the tube element by 0.001 inches to 0.3 inches when the seal is in the undeformed shape. In another example, an inner diameter defined by the sealing surface exceeds an outer diameter of the tube element by up to 0.05 inches when the seal is in the undeformed shape.
By way of example, the combination further comprises: a first spring element positioned on the first gland opposite the first sealing surface; and a second spring element positioned on the second gland opposite the second sealing surface. The spring element extends circumferentially around the collar and biases the first and second sealing surfaces towards the pipe element.
The invention further comprises a method of joining first and second pipe elements together in end-to-end relationship. In one example embodiment, the method comprises:
supporting at least first and second segments in spaced apart relation from one another on a seal, the seal including a hoop located in a central space surrounded by the segments, the at least first and second segments being attached to one another end-to-end, each of the at least first and second segments having a circumferential channel within which the hoop is received, the hoop having first and second circumferential lobes on opposite sides of the hoop, the first and second circumferential lobes having respective first and second lobe surfaces facing the first and second side surfaces, respectively, the first and second side surfaces defining the circumferential channel, the first lobe surface being angularly oriented with respect to the first side surface, the second lobe surface being angularly oriented with respect to the second side surface;
axially inserting the first and second pipe elements into the central space and engaging the first and second pipe elements with first and second circumferential lobes, respectively, on opposite sides of the girdle;
the at least first and second segments are pulled toward the central space, thereby deforming the loop to substantially align the first lobe surface with the first side surface and to substantially align the second lobe surface with the second side surface.
By way of further example, each of the at least first and second segments includes first and second keys positioned on opposite sides of the segment. Each key extends circumferentially around and projects towards the pipe element. In this example, the method further includes engaging the key with the pipe element when pulling the at least first and second segments toward each other.
The example method further includes engaging the key within a circumferential groove located in the first and second pipe elements.
Another example method of joining first and second pipe elements together in end-to-end relationship includes:
inserting first and second pipe elements into a central space surrounded by a seal, the seal comprising a ring having first and second circumferential lobes on opposite sides of the ring;
surrounding the ring by at least first and second segments of the link, each segment having a circumferential channel within which the ring is received, the first and second lobes having respective first and second lobe surfaces facing first and second side surfaces, respectively, the first and second side surfaces defining the circumferential channel, the first lobe surface being angularly oriented with respect to the first side surface, the second lobe surface being angularly oriented with respect to the second side surface;
the at least first and second segments are drawn toward one another, thereby deforming the loop to substantially align the first lobe surface with the first side surface and to substantially align the second lobe surface with the second side surface.
Further by way of example, each of the at least first and second segments includes first and second keys positioned on opposite sides of the segment. Each key extends circumferentially around and projects towards the pipe element. In this example, the method further includes engaging the key with the pipe element when the at least first and second segments are pulled toward each other. By way of further example, the method includes engaging a key within a circumferential groove located in the first and second pipe elements.
Drawings
FIG. 1 is an axial end view of an example combination coupling and pipe element according to the invention.
FIG. 2 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the example combination coupling and pipe element shown in FIG. 1.
Fig. 3 and 4 are longitudinal cross-sectional views taken at line 3-3 of fig. 1.
Fig. 5-8 are partial cross-sectional views of additional example embodiments of couplings according to this invention.
Detailed Description
Figures 1 and 2 show an example combination coupling and
As shown in fig. 2, each of the
As further shown in fig. 2, a
In the
The
An exemplary method of joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship is illustrated in fig. 1, 3 and 4. As shown in fig. 1 and 3, the
In another example method for joining pipe elements in end-to-end relationship,
The angular deformation of the
Because the
Fig. 5-8 show additional example embodiments of couplings according to the invention. A general characteristic of all embodiments disclosed herein relates to the relationship of the width of the seal relative to the width of the channel. At least a portion of the first and second lobe surfaces are in contact with the sidewall when the seal is in an undeformed state such that the lobes deform toward a center of the channel when the seal is disposed within the channel.
As shown in fig. 5, the
As shown in fig. 7, the
As shown in fig. 8, the
Having the width of the lobe surfaces wider than the widest distance between the side surfaces of the channels defining the segments provides a camming action that deforms the lobes inwardly toward each other to achieve a fluid tight seal as the segments are drawn toward each other and toward the pipe elements. This camming action is expected to be particularly effective when used in conjunction with seals formed from materials having low elasticity and low resiliency.
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