Pipe tool

Abstract

A holding apparatus and method for installing a first threaded end of a pipe fitting onto a pipe, where the first threaded end has a first thread axis, and the pipe fitting has a second threaded end with a second thread axis oriented at an angle of less than 180 degrees with respect to the first thread axis. A holder engages the pipe fitting such that the first threaded end extends from an open end of the holder, and a wrench head is fixed to the holder opposite the open end and is rotated by a wrench about a head axis. The wrench head and holder are configured such that when the pipe fitting is engaged in the holder, the head axis is aligned with the first thread axis and rotating the wrench head about the head axis rotates the pipe fitting about the first thread axis.

Description

[0001] This invention is in the field of plumbing installation tools, and in particular in the area of tools for installing plumbing elbow joints and like fittings. BACKGROUND [0002] It is common in the field of plumbing, hydraulic line, and natural gas pipe fitting to use pipe elbows when assembling plumbing components. The use of elbows allows for rigid pipe runs to make turns to pass around comers or obstacles. In addition, “double” elbows or T-junctions are used where the flow is to be distributed to two or more pipes. [0003] Typically the installation of a pipe elbow involves the threading by hand of the elbow onto the pipe to which it is to be installed, and then tightening the elbow with a pipe wrench. As pipe fittings are often installed in cramped working conditions, it is often difficult and sometimes impossible to first engage the elbow with a conventional pipe wrench, and then have adequate working room to be able to generate the torque necessary to properly tighten the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a tool that overcomes limitations in prior art methods and tools used in installing or removing plumbing fittings such as elbows. The invention is a simple, reusable device, adapted for use with conventional tools such as ratchet and socket wrenches, hand wrenches or impact socket wrenches.

[0012] Where additional torque is required to either install or remove the fitting, the invention provides the user with the option of using an air driven impact wrench and socket to generate the necessary force. Thus the invention provides a simple and easy to use device that overcomes problems associated with the installation or removal of plumbing fittings such as elbows and junctions

Problems solved by technology

As pipe fittings are often installed in cramped working conditions, it is often difficult and sometimes impossible to first engage the elbow with a conventional pipe wrench, and then have adequate working room to be able to generate the torque necessary to properly tighten the fitting.

If the fitting is not properly tightened it can lead to leakage at the joint between the elbow and the pipe.

Because of the shape of pipe fittings like elbows, the orientations of the fitting where a pipe wrench can effectively engage the fitting are limited.

The street elbow at the male end has a relatively short and narrow shank with external threads, and the shank is difficult to grasp with a conventional pipe wrench.

Thus for example when installing a 90° elbow in a limited workspace an installer is often not able to swing the wrench through 180°, and it is very difficult to properly tighten the elbow to the desired degree.

Furthermore, applying force with a pipe wrench to the open end of a pipe fitting risks compressing and deforming that end so that it cannot be connected to the next segment of pipe.

Engaging the wrench on the shank just below the end that is being installed on the pipe provides a wider range of gripping locations however is problematic as well.

The same problems that impair one's ability to install an elbow fitting also impedes efforts to remove it.

This is exacerbated by the fact that after a period of use, fittings will often become corroded and difficult to remove.

Applying adequate torque to install and remove elbow type fittings is made difficult by the shape and lack of an effective location to engage a wrench.

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