Non-metallic pipe composite connector

Abstract

The present application relates to the field of sealing connector, specifically to a non-metal pipe composite connector, comprising an inner sleeve; the inner sleeve comprises a first connecting section and a second connecting section which are symmetrically arranged; the first connecting section and the second connecting section are provided with external threads to be screwed with the internal threads of the non-metal pipe; a flange part is arranged between the first connecting section and the second connecting section; the flange part is made of elastic air-tight material and is configured to cover at least part of the outer surface of each non-metal pipe. The connecting end is stable and reliable, and the overall sealing performance is strong. The key problems such as weak bearing capacity of the connection, easy failure, loose connection with the connecting pipe and poor long-term sealing performance are solved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of sealing connector technology, specifically a non-metallic tube composite connector. Background Technology

[0002] Non-metallic pipes are typically made of resin materials or fiber-reinforced resin composites. Compared to traditional metallic materials, they possess superior properties such as being lightweight, high-strength and tough, highly corrosion-resistant, and easy to transport, install, and maintain. They have broad application prospects in the transportation of oil, gas, and other materials in harsh environments.

[0003] Non-metallic pipe connectors are essential devices for achieving long-distance pipeline connections and pipeline terminal connections. During service, they must ensure the sealing of the connected pipeline, preventing failure or pull-out; they should also work well with existing pipelines to jointly withstand the internal / external pressure generated by oil and gas transportation, while resisting external tensile, bending, and torsional forces at the connection point to ensure a long-term connection.

[0004] Currently, there is a lack of readily applicable non-metallic tube connectors. Existing metal connectors have varying degrees of problems in terms of tight connection with non-metallic tubes, corrosion resistance, and long service life. How to manufacture reliable and efficient connectors using composite materials with properties similar to non-metallic tubes is a current hot topic and a challenge.

[0005] Currently, the variety of non-metallic tube connectors is still limited, and there are no mature application products. Metal connectors present various problems when used with non-metallic tubes. There is a strong need for composite material connectors, which have properties similar to non-metallic tubes, to achieve a tight fit, long-term corrosion resistance, and reliable connection.

[0006] Although Chinese patent CN114754205 A discloses a composite pipe connector, it has exposed metal components, many parts, relatively complex installation and connection, requires welding, affects durability, and has high production costs. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To address the problems in the prior art, the present invention provides a non-metallic tube composite connector.

[0008] The technical solution adopted by this invention to solve its technical problem is: a non-metallic tube composite connector, comprising...

[0009] Inner sleeve;

[0010] The inner sleeve includes a first connecting section and a second connecting section arranged symmetrically.

[0011] Both the first connecting section and the second connecting section are provided with external threads to be screwed into the internal threads of the non-metallic pipe;

[0012] A flange is provided between the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment;

[0013] The flange is made of an elastic, airtight material and is configured to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of each of the non-metallic tubes.

[0014] A preferred embodiment of the present invention:

[0015] The inner sleeve is made of an elastic non-metallic material;

[0016] The inner sleeve is encased with a fastening spiral metal coil.

[0017] A preferred embodiment of the present invention:

[0018] The flange portion has snap-fit ​​grooves on both symmetrical sides, which are configured to snap onto the end of each of the non-metallic tubes.

[0019] A preferred embodiment of the present invention:

[0020] The flange portion includes an annular portion and a lug portion;

[0021] The annular portion is connected to the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment;

[0022] The lugs are two symmetrically arranged, and the snap-fit ​​groove is formed between the lugs and the annular portion.

[0023] A preferred embodiment of the present invention:

[0024] It also includes an outer shell that snaps onto the lug and is configured to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of each of the non-metallic tubes;

[0025] The coverage area of ​​the outer shell is not less than the coverage area of ​​the flange.

[0026] A preferred embodiment of the present invention:

[0027] The lug is embedded inside the outer shell.

[0028] A preferred embodiment of the present invention:

[0029] The annular portion is configured to extend axially along the non-metallic tube and be circumferentially enclosing at least a portion of the inner surface of each of the non-metallic tubes.

[0030] A preferred embodiment of the present invention:

[0031] It also includes stacked gaskets;

[0032] The stacked gasket can be sandwiched between the outer shell and the non-metallic tube.

[0033] A preferred embodiment of the present invention:

[0034] The outer shell has a trapezoidal cross-section along the axial direction, with the top edge furthest from the non-metallic tube being the short side and the bottom edge closest to the non-metallic tube being the long side.

[0035] A preferred embodiment of the present invention:

[0036] The axial width of the flange is 1 / 2d-1d, where d is the diameter of the non-metallic tube;

[0037] The annular section is designed as a slope with a gradually decreasing thickness along the axial direction from the center of the width.

[0038] The beneficial effects of this invention are:

[0039] 1. The present invention has a simple structure and is easy to install and disassemble.

[0040] 2. The elastic, airtight material covering the flange of this invention ensures stable and reliable connection, strong overall sealing, and long-lasting corrosion resistance.

[0041] 3. The inner sleeve is embedded with a metal ring, which solves key problems such as weak load-bearing capacity at the connection, easy failure, loose connection with the connecting pipe, and poor long-term sealing.

[0042] 4. The modular design of this invention facilitates inspection, rapid repair, or replacement of failed components. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0044] Figure 1 This is a front cross-sectional view of the overall structure of the connector after connecting a non-metallic tube according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the inner sleeve and the alloy coil it covers in this invention;

[0046] Figure 3 This is a side view of the overall structure of the present invention after connection.

[0047] In the diagram: 1. Non-metallic tube; 2. Inner sleeve; 3. Flange; 4. Protective layer; 5. Stacked gasket; 6. Outer shell; 7. Annular part; 8. Lug; 9. Snap-fit ​​groove; 10. Strip groove; 11. Fastening type spiral metal coil. Detailed Implementation

[0048] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can understand the advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification. It should be noted that the illustrations provided in the following embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and represent schematic diagrams, not actual pictures, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. In order to better illustrate the embodiments of the present invention, some components in the figures may be omitted, enlarged, or reduced, and do not represent the actual product size; it is understandable for those skilled in the art that some well-known structures and their descriptions may be omitted in the figures.

[0049] In the figures of this invention, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this invention, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," and "rear" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the figure, they are only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the figures are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this invention. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above-mentioned terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0050] like Figure 1-3 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a non-metallic tube composite connector, including...

[0051] Inner sleeve 2;

[0052] The inner sleeve 2 includes a first connecting section and a second connecting section arranged symmetrically.

[0053] Specifically, the first connecting segment extends along one side of the axial direction, and the second connecting segment extends along the other side of the axial direction;

[0054] Both the first connecting section and the second connecting section are provided with external threads to be screwed into the internal threads of the non-metallic pipe 1.

[0055] A flange 3 is provided between the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment;

[0056] The flange portion 3 is made of an elastic, airtight material and is configured to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of each of the non-metallic tubes 1.

[0057] The airtight elastic flange 3 seals the end connection of the non-metallic tube 1, and the elastic force makes the connection between the inner sleeve 2 and the non-metallic tube 1 tighter.

[0058] Preferably, the flange portion 3 is made of rubber, rubber-asbestos board, aerogel felt-polyurethane, etc.

[0059] As an alternative to the flange or a coexisting solution, the inner sleeve 2 can be made of an elastic non-metallic material; the interior of the inner sleeve 2 is covered with a fastening spiral metal coil 11.

[0060] The tightening spiral metal coil mentioned here refers to a metal coil subjected to a certain axial torsional stress during the tightening process of the inner sleeve, resulting in a certain axial compressive deformation of the coil. After the connection is completed, the spiral coil reverses its deformation, generating circumferential outward pressure, further enhancing the tight connection between the inner sleeve and the non-metallic tube.

[0061] Of course, the fastening type spiral metal coil 11 can also be embedded in the inner wall of the inner sleeve 2, as long as it can generate circumferential outward pressure.

[0062] This inner sleeve structure allows for a better and tighter connection with the non-metallic pipe, enabling them to share the load and further enhancing the connection's resistance to damage caused by internal and external pressure, tension, bending, and torsion. This ensures the long-term safe service life of the non-metallic pipe.

[0063] Preferably, the flange portion 3 has snap-fit ​​grooves 9 on both symmetrical sides, which are configured to snap-fit ​​the end of each of the non-metallic tubes 1.

[0064] The end of the non-metallic tube 1 can be tightly sealed by embedding through the snap-fit ​​groove 9, so that both the inner and outer surfaces of the non-metallic tube 1 are covered.

[0065] Preferably, the flange portion 3 includes an annular portion 7 and a lug portion 8;

[0066] The annular portion 7 is connected to the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment;

[0067] The lugs 8 are two symmetrically arranged, and the locking groove 9 is formed between the lugs 7 and the annular part 8.

[0068] Specifically, the protruding ears 8 are arranged symmetrically at 180°.

[0069] The annular portion 7 forms a connection with the inner sleeve 2, and the lug portion 8 and the annular portion 7 form a groove 9 that covers the non-metallic tube 1.

[0070] Specifically, the flange 3 can be an airtight gasket, integrally formed with the inner sleeve 2; or it can be manufactured separately and then fitted onto the middle of the inner sleeve 2. In this case, the wall thickness of the middle part of the inner sleeve 2 should be thinner so that the overall diameter of the airtight gasket after it is fitted should be close to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the inner sleeve. For example, the middle part of the inner sleeve 2 has an annular groove, and the airtight gasket is fitted onto the outer circumferential surface of the annular groove.

[0071] As an alternative to or in combination with the metal coil, an outer casing 6 is also included, which snaps onto the lug 8 and is configured to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of each of the non-metallic tubes 1.

[0072] The coverage area of ​​the outer shell 6 is not less than the coverage area of ​​the flange portion 3.

[0073] Specifically, the outer shell 6 has a snap-fit ​​groove design inside, which matches the airtight gasket lug 8 of the inner sleeve 2 to achieve a tight connection.

[0074] Preferably, the outer shell 6 is also two symmetrical shells, each of which is inserted into the outside of the lug 8.

[0075] The snap-fit ​​design of the outer shell 6 allows it to be securely fastened to the outside of the non-metallic tube 1. Meanwhile, the elastic material of the flange 3 provides the airtight gasket with a certain pre-tightening force, enhancing the sealing performance.

[0076] Preferably, the two sides of the lug 8 are provided with strip grooves 10, so that after the outer shell 6 is engaged, the strip grooves 10 are deformed by pressure, and have extrusion force in both the inward and outward directions, so that on the one hand they fit tightly against the non-metallic tube, and on the other hand they fasten the outer shell 6.

[0077] Preferably, the lug 8 is embedded inside the outer shell (6).

[0078] In other words, the outer shell 6 covers the lug 8, which on the one hand protects the lug 8 and prevents it from failing due to prolonged exposure, and on the other hand increases the contact area between the outer shell 6 and the non-metallic tube 1.

[0079] Specifically, the outer shell 6 is made of resin or fiber-reinforced resin composite material to increase air tightness, similar to non-metallic tubing, and has superior mechanical and durability properties; the outer shell 6 serves to fix the inner sleeve 2 and further enhance the tight connection between the connector and the connecting tube.

[0080] Preferably, the annular portion 7 is configured to extend axially along the non-metallic tube and be configured to circumferentially cover at least a portion of the inner surface of each of the non-metallic tubes 1.

[0081] By extending axially, the annular portion 7 has a larger covering area for the non-metallic tube 1, resulting in better internal sealing.

[0082] Preferably, it further includes a laminated gasket 5; the laminated gasket 5 can be sandwiched between the outer shell 5 and the non-metallic tube 1. This improves the sealing performance and strengthens the connection between the outer shell 6 and the non-metallic tube 1.

[0083] Preferably, the outer shell 6 has a trapezoidal cross-section along the axial direction, with the top edge away from the non-metallic tube 1 being the short side and the bottom edge near the non-metallic tube 1 being the long side.

[0084] The trapezoidal cross-section design of the outer shell 6 provides a secure connection, ensuring a tight bond between the bottom and the non-metallic outer wall of the tube. The overall tube cross-section lines are smooth after installation. There are no excessively protruding structures, preventing potential external damage.

[0085] Preferably, the axial width of the flange portion 3 is 1 / 2d-1d, where d is the diameter of the non-metallic tube;

[0086] The annular portion 7 is designed as a slope with a gradually decreasing thickness along the axial direction from the center of the width.

[0087] Specifically, the width of the lug 8 is preferably 1 / 2d, the width of the annular portion 7 is 1d, and the bevel angle is recommended to be 1°-2° to enhance the sealing of the connection. For non-metallic pipes of special materials and sizes, the bevel angle can be further adjusted according to the actual situation.

[0088] Specifically, the inner sleeve 2 has a thickness of not less than 2 mm. The main mechanical properties of the inner sleeve 2 are higher than those of the non-metallic pipe 1 to be connected.

[0089] To enhance the connector's protection, the non-metallic tube connector further includes a protective layer 4 covering the non-metallic tube. This protective layer 4 is made of carbon fiber cloth or other types of fiber composites. A multi-layer adhesive wrapping method is used to protect the exposed connector. The width of the protective layer should be greater than the width of the exposed connector to further increase the external connection area between the connector and the non-metallic tube. For non-metallic tubes with relatively smooth outer surfaces, it is recommended to add external threads to the ends to improve the adhesive shear force between the protective layer and the outer layer of the non-metallic tube.

[0090] Carbon fiber reinforcement of existing structures is a widely recognized and highly efficient reinforcement method with excellent results. In this application, it not only protects the exposed connectors but also further enhances the stability of the connection section, its resistance to external forces, and its integrated synergy with the connected tubing.

[0091] During use, when connecting, first screw both ends of the connector inner sleeve 2 into the non-metallic tube 1 or the fixed end to be connected. Because the tightening spiral coil 11 encased inside the inner sleeve 2 is subjected to a certain axial torsional stress during tightening, the coil undergoes a certain axial compressive deformation. After connection, the spiral coil reverses its deformation, generating circumferential outward pressure, further enhancing the tight connection between the inner sleeve 2 and the non-metallic tube 1. This inner sleeve structure allows for a better tighter connection with the non-metallic tube, sharing the load, and further enhancing the connection's resistance to damage caused by internal and external pressure, tension, bending, and torsion forces. This ensures long-term safe service for the non-metallic tube.

[0092] After protecting the exposed connector by using a multi-layer adhesive wrapping method, the outer sleeve 6 with stacked gaskets is inserted into the outside of the flange to fix the inner sleeve and further enhance the tight connection between the connector and the connecting tube.

[0093] The above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and all such modifications and substitutions should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention. Technical aspects, shapes, and structures not described in detail in this invention are all well-known technologies.

Claims

1. A non-metallic tube composite connector, characterized in that, include Inner sleeve (2); The inner sleeve (2) includes a first connecting section and a second connecting section arranged symmetrically; Both the first connecting section and the second connecting section are provided with external threads to be screwed into the internal threads of the non-metallic pipe (1); A flange (3) is provided between the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment; The flange portion (3) includes an annular portion (7) and a lug portion (8); The annular portion (7) is connected to the first connecting segment and the second connecting segment; the annular portion (7) is configured to extend along the axial direction of the non-metallic tube, and the annular portion (7) is designed with a slope along the center of the width, the slope angle being 1°-2°; so as to be configured to circumferentially cover at least a portion of the inner surface of each of the non-metallic tubes (1); The flange (3) is made of an elastic, airtight material and is configured to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of each of the non-metallic tubes (1); It also includes an outer shell (6), which is snapped onto the lug (8); The inner sleeve (2) is covered with a fastening spiral metal coil (11). The fastening spiral metal coil (11) is embedded in the inner wall of the inner sleeve (2). When the connection is completed, the spiral metal coil (11) reverses its deformation and generates circumferential external pressure.

2. The non-metallic tube composite connector according to claim 1, characterized in that: The inner sleeve (2) is made of an elastic non-metallic material.

3. The non-metallic tube composite connector according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The flange (3) has snap-fit ​​grooves (9) on both symmetrical sides, which are configured to snap onto the end of each of the non-metallic tubes (1).

4. The non-metallic tube composite connector according to claim 3, characterized in that: The lugs (8) are two symmetrically arranged, and the snap-fit ​​groove (9) is formed between the lugs (7) and the annular part (8).

5. The non-metallic tube composite connector according to claim 4, characterized in that: The outer shell (6) is configured to cover at least a portion of the outer surface of each of the non-metallic tubes (1); The coverage area of ​​the outer shell (6) is not less than the coverage area of ​​the flange (3).

6. The non-metallic tube composite connector according to claim 5, characterized in that: The lug is embedded inside the outer shell (6).

7. The non-metallic tube composite connector according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: It also includes stacked gaskets (5); The stacked gasket (5) can be sandwiched between the outer shell (5) and the non-metallic tube (1).

8. The non-metallic tube composite connector according to claim 5, characterized in that: The outer shell (6) has a trapezoidal cross section along the axial direction, with the top edge away from the non-metallic tube (1) being the short side and the bottom edge close to the non-metallic tube (1) being the long side.

9. The non-metallic tube composite connector according to claim 4, characterized in that: The flange portion (3) has an axial width of 1 / 2d-1d, where d is the diameter of the non-metallic tube.

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