Gripping gasket

Abstract

A novel gasket includes at least one gripping element embedded in an annular member for forming a seal between two tubulars. For tubulars having socket and spigot ends, the gripping element includes teeth for gripping an outer surface of the spigot end and a blunt tooth for contacting a front wall of the socket end. The blunt tooth rolls along the front wall during relative movement between the tubulars and can include a contacting face of a specialized geometry to adjust contact dynamics and / or roughened surfaces to increase the frictional contact between the blunt tooth and the front wall. The embedded element can also include at least four teeth arranged such that no more than two teeth normally grip the outer surface of the spigot end. One or more teeth can also include a transverse groove to enhance penetration into the outer surface of the spigot end.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 817,674, filed Apr. 2, 2004.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] 1. Field of the Invention [0003] This invention relates to devices for locking joints for tubular members. More particularly, the present invention relates to gaskets for sealing and locking a socket end of one tubular to a spigot end of another tubular. [0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art [0005] Pipes joined in telescoping relationship typically have a spigot end of one pipe inserted into the socket end of the engaging pipe. The socket end has an opening large enough to receive the spigot end of the enclosed pipe. A gasket is inserted in the socket end of the enclosing pipe and prevents leakage of fluid from the joint by forming a seal between the two pipes. In many applications, a fluid under pressure flows through the pipes. This fluid pressure can produce a separating force, known as joint sepa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The gasket effectively seals and locks tubular joints, accommodating dimensional variations and resisting joint separating end thrust, while maintaining the integrity of the pipe structure and reducing the risk of excessive penetration.

Problems solved by technology

The ability of the gasket to seal and lock the joint, however, can be adversely affected by such dimensional variations.

Moreover, there is a persistent need for gaskets that lock or retain a joint without unduly compromising the structure of the pipe (e.g., excessive penetration).

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