Pipeline clamping equipment

Abstract

The invention provides pipeline clamping equipment which is used for containing fluid leaked from a pipeline. The invention relates to a pipe gripping device comprising a first and a second housing member (12, 14) connected by a hinge (16) and adapted to be placed on a surface of a pipe (24), the first and second housing members are configured to define a closed cavity (40) between the first and second housing members and a surface of the pipe in a fully closed position of the pipe gripping apparatus. The clamp assembly is operable to maintain the first and second housing members (12, 14) in sealing engagement with the conduit (24) to seal the enclosed cavity (40) and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing members and the conduit. The first and second housing members (12, 14) are each provided with mutually engaging sealing surfaces (20) adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between the first and second housing members, at least one of the mutually engaging sealing surfaces having a first resilient sealing member (72a) secured thereto. The first and second housing members (12, 14) are each also provided with a conduit sealing surface (22) adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between the surface of the conduit (24) and the housing members (12, 14), each cylindrical sealing surface having a second resilient sealing member (72b) secured thereto. The first and second housing members (12, 14) are each provided with a partially cylindrical friction surface (23) separate from the pipe sealing surface (22) and adapted to provide a frictional resistance against axial and / or rotational movement of the pipe clamping device relative to the pipe (24), each cylindrical friction surface having an elastic friction member (68) fixed thereto. A second pipe gripping device is also provided for application to a pipe in order to isolate the pipe by freezing a fluid conveyed in the pipe, the second gripping device having a similar set of components as the first gripping device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the repair and maintenance of pipelines used to transport fluids. In particular, the present invention relates to a pipeline clamp that can be used to repair leaks in pipelines or to isolate sections of pipelines to enable repair or maintenance work to be performed. Background Art

[0002] Pipes are a common feature of many systems that transfer fluids from one location to another. These systems include domestic water systems, home heating systems, vehicle cooling systems, industrial piping systems, and mains supply and service networks. Leaking or burst pipes can cause damage to the systems using the pipes and the surrounding environment. For example, a leaking pipe in a heating system can cause a decrease in system pressure and water loss, potentially damaging the boiler. Furthermore, a leaking pipe can cause water from the heating system to cause significant damage to areas of the building near the leak.

[0003] In systems under pressure, such as heating systems or mains electricity supply, it's desirable to quickly repair burst or leaking pipes to minimize the damage caused by the fluid escaping the pipe. In some cases, temporarily containing the leak before taking the necessary steps for a more permanent repair can reduce inconvenience and loss of containment and production. When used in conjunction with water distribution systems, it can also reduce water waste.

[0004] WO 2011 / 045608 A1 describes a pipe clamp that can be used to temporarily repair pipes in domestic water or heating systems by containing fluid leaking from the pipe. The clamp includes a hinged housing that can be placed around the outer surface of the pipe to define a cavity between the housing and the pipe. The housing includes a clip and a lever that is operable to maintain the housing in sealing engagement with the pipe to create a sealed joint between the two.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved clamp that can be used in both domestic and industrial applications.It is another object of the present invention to provide a clamp that can be applied to pipes in both domestic and industrial applications to isolate a portion of the pipe or the entire pipe system. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Pipeline Repair Example

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pipe clamping device for containing fluid leaking from a pipe, the pipe clamping device comprising:

[0008] a first shell member and a second shell member connected by a hinge and adapted to be placed on a surface of a pipe to define an enclosed cavity between the first and second shell members and the surface of the pipe in a fully closed position of the pipe gripping device, and

[0009] a clamp assembly operable to retain the first and second housing members in sealing engagement with the conduit to seal the closed cavity and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing members and the conduit,

[0010] Its characteristics are:

[0011] The first housing member and the second housing member are each provided with mutually engaging sealing surfaces adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between the first housing member and the second housing member, at least one of the mutually engaging sealing surfaces having a first sealing groove,

[0012] The first housing member and the second housing member are each provided with a pipe sealing surface adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between a surface of the pipe and the housing member, each cylindrical sealing surface having a second sealing groove, and

[0013] The first housing member and the second housing member are each provided with a partially cylindrical friction surface, the partially cylindrical friction surface being separated from the pipe sealing surface and being adapted to provide frictional resistance against axial movement of the pipe clamping device relative to the pipe, each cylindrical friction surface having a resilient friction member fixed thereto.

[0014] The pipe gripping device may further include a first elastic sealing member located in the first sealing groove and a second elastic sealing member located in the second sealing groove.

[0015] The elastic friction member may have a greater stiffness than the first elastic sealing member and the second elastic sealing member.

[0016] By maintaining the housing member in sealing engagement with the pipe, the clamping assembly compresses the interengaging sealing surfaces of the housing members and the resilient sealing member therebetween. Simultaneously, the clamping assembly forces the cylindrical pipe sealing surface against the surface of the pipe, thereby providing a fluid-tight seal between the housing and the pipe surface. This seal serves to contain any fluid leakage from the pipe and thereby prevent fluid (such as gas or liquid) from escaping the cavity formed within the pipe clamping device.

[0017] The use of a first housing member and a second housing member allows the pipe gripping device to be fitted completely around the circumference of a portion of a damaged or leaking pipe. This provides the advantage that the pipe gripping device can be used to provide a seal around a burst, puncture, or cut that exists around a portion of the circumference of the pipe or has resulted in a complete break, puncture, or cut in the pipe.

[0018] The elastic friction component securely holds the pipe gripping device against the pipe, while the elastic sealing component provides a fluid-tight seal. Due to their different functions, different materials can be used. The properties of the elastic friction component can be optimized to minimize movement of the pipe gripping device along the pipe, even when the pipe is subjected to vibration or other external forces. The properties of the elastic sealing component can be optimized to minimize leakage without having to select a material that can adapt to and resist vibration or other forces that could cause the pipe gripping device to shift along the pipe.

[0019] The resilient friction member may comprise a metal or ceramic friction member. The resilient friction member may comprise an arcuate strip of resilient material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 150, preferably in the range of 70 to 100. The strip may be bonded to the housing. The resilient material may be natural or synthetic rubber, rope, resin, metal coil, or fire-resistant barrier material. The resilient friction member may be discontinuous in the circumferential direction in the closed position of the pipe clamping device to allow fluid to pass between the pipe and the cylindrical friction surface. It has been found that such a Shore A hardness provides satisfactory resistance to movement of the pipe clamping device along the pipe, even when the pipe is subjected to vibration.

[0020] The first and second resilient sealing members may comprise one or more strips of resilient material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90, preferably 40 to 80. The first and second resilient sealing members may be continuous to provide a continuous fluid-tight seal between the pipe and the pipe clamping device. It has been found that such a Shore A hardness provides a satisfactory fluid-tight joint even if the seals themselves are not resistant to severe vibratory motion. The first and second resilient sealing members may comprise one or more elastomeric seals of a material suitable for withstanding fluid in the pipe. The first and second resilient sealing members may comprise natural or synthetic rubber or a foam material.

[0021] The resilient material of the resilient friction member preferably has a Shore A hardness that is greater than the Shore A hardness of the resilient material of the first and second resilient sealing members. Thus, the resilient friction member is stiffer than the resilient sealing members and serves to hold the pipe gripping device in place while preventing excessive shearing or deformation of the less rigid resilient sealing members, allowing the resilient sealing members to remain fluid-tight and perform their primary function of sealing.

[0022] One of the first and second housing members may be provided with a drain valve that allows fluid to escape from the enclosed cavity. Reference herein to a drain valve encompasses any valve that can be used to relieve pressure. For example, the pipe clamping device can be used to repair leaks in pressurized pipes. After the pipe clamping device is installed to seal the enclosed cavity and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing member and the pipe, the drain valve can be opened to relieve pressure in the pipe and / or to check the internal pressure and / or inspect or test the contents of the pipe, and / or to allow the pipe clamping device to be safely opened and removed from the pipe.

[0023] The inner surfaces of the first and second housing members forming the outer wall of the cavity can be substantially semi-cylindrical in shape. The diameter of the cylindrical sealing surface is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the pipe. The diameter of the semi-cylindrical inner surface is greater than the outer diameter of the pipe, and can be at least 1.5 times the diameter of the pipe, or in one embodiment, at least 1.8 times the diameter of the pipe.

[0024] The cavity formed between the housing and the pipe surface allows the housing to be assembled over a leaking or bursting portion of the pipe where there are external fittings, such as collars, fittings, or outer wall protrusions, or where the pipe diameter has increased due to expansion or bulging, or where the exterior of the pipe has corroded, or where welded joints in the pipe have failed. Thus, the enclosed cavity serves to encapsulate the fittings, protrusions, or expansions on the outer wall of the pipe and enhances the ability of the pipe gripping device to form a fluid-tight seal to contain the leak.

[0025] Pipeline Freezing Example

[0026] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pipe clamping device for use in a pipe for isolating the pipe by freezing a fluid transported in the pipe, the pipe clamping device comprising:

[0027] a first shell member and a second shell member connected by a hinge and adapted to be placed on a surface of a pipe to define a closed cavity between the first shell member and the second shell member and the surface of the pipe, and

[0028] a clamp assembly operable to retain the first and second housing members in sealing engagement with the conduit to seal the closed cavity and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing members and the conduit,

[0029] It is characterized by

[0030] One of the first shell member and the second shell member is provided with an inlet for attachment to a source of liquid refrigerant, the inlet being in communication with the closed cavity,

[0031] One of the first shell member and the second shell member is provided with an outlet for removing evaporated liquid refrigerant, the outlet being in communication with the closed cavity, and

[0032] The cavity comprises a heat reflective material and an absorbent material adapted to hold and at least partially retain liquid refrigerant introduced into the cavity through the inlet, the absorbent material being located, in use, between the heat reflective material and the conduit.

[0033] The heat reflective material may be selected from the group consisting of foils and surface coatings.

[0034] The absorbent material allows for slower release and evaporation of liquid refrigerant introduced into the cavity. The absorbent material is preferably in contact with and / or in close contact with the tube walls so that the evaporated liquid refrigerant more effectively freezes the tubes and their contents.

[0035] The first shell member and the second shell member may each be provided with mutually engaging sealing surfaces adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between the first shell member and the second shell member, at least one of the mutually engaging sealing surfaces having a first sealing component secured thereto.

[0036] The first and second housing members may each be provided with a cylindrical sealing surface adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between the cylindrical surface and the housing members, each cylindrical sealing surface having a second resilient sealing component secured thereto.

[0037] By maintaining the housing member in sealing engagement with the pipe, the clamping assembly compresses the interengaging sealing surfaces of the housing members and the resilient sealing member therebetween. Simultaneously, the clamping assembly urges the cylindrical sealing surface against the surface of the pipe, thereby providing a fluid-tight seal between the housing and the pipe. The seal is manufactured to contain liquid refrigerant introduced into a cavity formed within the pipe clamping device.

[0038] The use of first and second housing members allows the pipe gripping device to fit completely around the circumference of a portion of a pipe, even if localized protrusions are present on the outer surface of the pipe.

[0039] The absorbent material may be a foam, sponge-like material, mineral wool or glass wool. The absorbent material may be a foil-backed mineral wool, e.g. If the absorbent material is foil-backed, the foil is preferably placed adjacent to the housing member so that, in use, the absorbent material is adjacent to and in close engagement with the tubing. This will retain the liquid refrigerant alongside the tubing and release it slowly, ensuring that the tubing cools as quickly as possible and remains as cool as possible, while providing efficient use of the liquid refrigerant and reducing waste.

[0040] The heat reflective material may be a reflective film with high thermal properties, a low temperature foil, a low temperature paper, a low temperature foil / paper composite, aluminum foil or the like. Suitable heat reflective foils are manufactured by Proctor Group An alternative heat reflective material that may be used is the aerogel insulation product manufactured by Armacell DT. In use, heat reflective material may line the interior walls of the housing member.

[0041] Each of the first and second housing members may be provided with an inlet for attaching to a source of liquid refrigerant, each inlet communicating with the enclosed cavity, and each of the inlets may be provided with an inlet closure so that they can be selectively opened. This provides an operator with a choice of inlet for attaching to a source of liquid refrigerant in the event that one of the inlets is difficult to access during use.

[0042] Each of the first and second housing members may be provided with an outlet for removing liquid refrigerant, the outlet communicating with the enclosed cavity. Each outlet may be provided with an outlet closure, allowing it to be selectively opened. This provides the operator with a choice of outlets for attaching to the outlet conduit, in case one of the outlets is difficult to access during use.

[0043] The heat reflecting foil may be attached to the inner surfaces of the first and second shell members.The heat reflecting foil may be provided with holes corresponding to the one or more inlets and the one or more outlets.

[0044] The absorbent material may be attached to the inner surface of the heat reflective foil. The absorbent material may be provided with holes corresponding to one or more inlets. The absorbent material may extend across one or more outlets and at least partially cover the one or more outlets.

[0045] The inner surfaces of the first and second housing members can be provided with localized protrusions, such as pins or spikes, that at least partially surround each outlet. The purpose of these protrusions is to provide clearance between the absorbent material and the outlet, preventing the absorbent material from blocking the outlet. This is particularly necessary when the absorbent material is foil-backed mineral wool, as without the localized protrusions, the foil backing could block the outlet. Alternatively, a ribbed or textured foil can be used to provide clearance for exiting gas or fluid.

[0046] Preferably, the liquid cryogen is a liquefied gas having a boiling temperature below -70°C, preferably below -150°C. A suitable liquid cryogen is liquid nitrogen. Liquid carbon dioxide may also be used.

[0047] The first and second resilient sealing members comprise porous foam materials, such as nitrile rubber. Suitable materials are Insulating tape. The first elastic sealing member may be provided on one or both of the mutually engaged sealing surfaces.

[0048] The pipe gripping device may further include an insulating jacket substantially surrounding the first housing member and the second housing member.

[0049] The tube clamping device may further include an insulated inlet tube adapted to be connected to a source of liquid refrigerant and to the inlet to deliver liquid refrigerant to the inlet.

[0050] The tube gripping device may further include an insulated outlet conduit connected at a first end thereof to the outlet and in communication at a second end thereof with the cavity between the insulating jacket and the first and second housing members.

[0051] Both embodiments

[0052] According to the first and second aspects, the clamping assembly may include:

[0053] a link member pivotally connected to the first housing member at a first pivot axis,

[0054] a snap arm pivotally connected to the link member at a second pivot axis parallel to and spaced apart from the first pivot axis, and

[0055] a stopper portion provided on the second housing member,

[0056] The snap arm includes a lever portion and a latch portion, wherein the lever portion is operable to engage the latch portion with the stop portion to retain the first and second housing components in a fully closed position of the pipe clamping device.

[0057] The clamping assembly may comprise a plurality of parallel link members, preferably two link members, pivotally connected to the first housing member at a first pivot axis.

[0058] The clamping assembly may include a plurality of stop portions, preferably two stop portions, disposed on the second housing member. The snap arm may include a plurality of latch portions, with the lever portion operable to engage each latch portion with a corresponding stop portion. Having more than one link member and stop portion ensures that the clamping effect of the clamping assembly is applied evenly along the length of the pipe clamping device.

[0059] The lever portion of the snap arm is preferably operable with an over-center locking action to retain the first and second housing members in the fully closed position of the pipe gripping device.

[0060] The lever portion of the snap arm is preferably further operable in an unlocking motion to engage the latch portion with the stop portion to retain the first and second housing members in a partially closed position of the pipe clamping device, the partially closed position permitting movement of the pipe clamping device along the pipe. In the partially closed position, the pipe clamping device is retained on the pipe so that the pipe clamping device cannot fall off the pipe, thereby making installation of the pipe clamping device easier and safer.

[0061] The pipe clamping device may further include a locking mechanism operable to prevent movement of the clamping assembly when the pipe clamping device is in the fully closed position. The locking mechanism may include a screw member disposed in a first threaded hole in the snap arm, the screw member being engageable with a second threaded hole disposed on the first housing member. The second threaded hole may be disposed on a lug on the first housing member, the link member being pivotally connected to the lug at a first pivot axis. The screw member may be a grub screw. Once the clamping assembly is operated to hold the first and second housing members in the fully closed position of the pipe clamping device, the first threaded hole aligns with the second threaded hole, and the threaded member may be screwed through the first threaded hole into the second threaded hole, thereby preventing accidental opening of the pipe clamping device.

[0062] The lever portion may include a handle. The handle may be manually operable to achieve closure of the pipe clamping device. The lever portion may include a tool hole, such as a slot, adapted to insert a lever tool to enable operation of the clamping assembly via the lever tool. The lever portion may include a tool receiving flange at its edge furthest from the second pivot axis. The tool receiving flange may have flat upper and lower surfaces and a constant thickness, adapted to be engaged by the jaws of a wrench, spanner, adjustable spanner, or other suitable tool to enable operation of the clamping assembly via the wrench, spanner, or tool. The tool hole and / or tool receiving flange enable an operator to apply greater lever force to close or open the clamping assembly. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0063] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings briefly described below, which are provided for the purpose of illustration and are not intended to be construed as limiting the present invention:

[0064] Figure 1a 、 1b 1c and 1c are schematic side views of a pipe clamping device according to a first embodiment of the present invention in an unfastened configuration, a partially fastened configuration, and a fully closed configuration, respectively;

[0065] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a pipe gripping device in a fully closed configuration according to a second embodiment of the present invention, wherein the pipe gripping device is used for pipe repair;

[0066] Figure 3 is in a fully closed configuration Figure 2 Another perspective view of the pipe clamping device;

[0067] Figure 4 is in a fully closed configuration Figure 2 A longitudinal sectional view of a pipe clamping device;

[0068] Figure 5 is in a fully closed configuration Figure 2 A front view of a pipe clamping device;

[0069] Figure 6 is in a fully closed configuration Figure 2 Bottom view of the pipe clamping device;

[0070] Figure 7 Is in an open or unfastened configuration Figure 2 A perspective view of a pipe clamping device;

[0071] Figure 8 Is in a partially tightened configuration Figure 2 A perspective view of a pipe clamping device;

[0072] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a pipe clamping device in a fully closed configuration according to a third embodiment of the present invention, wherein the pipe clamping device is used to freeze a pipe and a fluid therein;

[0073] Figure 10 Is in open configuration Figure 9 Another perspective view of the pipe clamping device;

[0074] Figure 11 is in a fully closed configuration Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a pipe clamping device;

[0075] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of a pipe clamping device;

[0076] Figure 13 is in a fully closed configuration Figure 2 a cross-sectional view of the pipe clamping device and an enlarged view of the longitudinally engaged sealing surfaces;

[0077] Figure 14 It can be used for Figure 9 a perspective view of a first housing member in a pipe clamping device; and

[0078] Figure 15 yes Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of a shell component.

[0079] The present invention includes a pipe gripping device 10, 110, 210 that can be installed about a pipe 24 to repair the pipe or to isolate the pipe. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080] Operation of the clamping assembly

[0081] As an example, in Figures 1a to 1c Schematically illustrating a possible manner of operating a pipe clamping device is shown in FIG. The pipe clamping device 10 includes a first housing member 12 and a second housing member 14 connected by a hinge 16, and clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 operable to maintain the first and second housing members 12, 14 in sealing engagement with the pipe 24 to seal the closed cavity and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing members 12, 14 and the pipe. The first and second housing members 12, 14 are each provided with a planar, interengaging sealing surface 20 adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between the first and second housing members 12, 14, and a cylindrical sealing surface 22 adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between a surface of the pipe 24 and the housing members 12, 14.

[0082] exist Figure 1a In the embodiment shown, the pipe gripping device 10 is in a fully open configuration adjacent to a pipe 24 that has been breached or requires isolation. The pipe gripping device 10 is positioned so that the cylindrical pipe sealing surfaces 22 at each end of the closure are on either side of the breached or to-be-isolated portion of the pipe.

[0083] like Figure 1aAs shown, the pipe clamping device 10 is closed around the pipe 24 by relative rotation of the first housing member 12 and the second housing member 14 about the hinge 16. The pin 18 connects the first housing member 12 and the second housing member 14 to form the hinge 16. The link member 26 is connected at its first end to the snap arm retaining lug 27 of the first housing member 12 by a first pivot 28 on a first pivot axis. The snap arm 30 is connected to the second end of the link member 26 by a second pivot 32 on a second pivot axis, which is parallel to the first pivot axis. The user can close the snap arm 30 using the handle 35 on the operating lever portion 34 of the snap arm 30, so that the snap arm 30 and the link member 26 move to Figure 1b Position shown.

[0084] exist Figure 1b In the partially secured or initially closed position of the pipe clamping device 10, the snap arm 30 has moved toward the second housing member 14 and the snap arm stop 36, which is provided on a stopper lug 37 on the main body of the second housing member 14. The latch portion 38 of the snap arm 30 engages the snap arm stop 36. In this partially secured or initially closed position of the pipe clamping device 10, the engagement of the latch portion 38 with the stop portion 36 prevents the pipe clamping device 10 from opening, but the clamping assembly, including the link member 26, the snap arm 30, and the stop 36, is not in the fully closed position and does not yet hold the pipe clamping device 10 in sealing engagement with the pipe 24. Thus, the pipe clamping device 10 can be securely attached to the pipe 24 in the initially closed position while still allowing the pipe clamping device 10 to move along the length of the pipe 24. This is advantageous in the event of a high-pressure leak. In such situations, closing the tube clamping device 10 around the leak in the pipe can be problematic because the high-pressure leak may exert force to hold the tube clamping device 10 open. Advantageously, the tube clamping device 10 can be positioned in an initial closed position along the pipe 24, away from the leak, so that the device 10 is securely attached to the pipe 24 without the risk of the device 10 falling or becoming dislodged from the pipe 24. Subsequently, the tube clamping device 10 can be slid along the pipe 24 so that the hole or rupture is located between the ends of the tube clamping device 10. Due to the engagement of the latch 38 with the stop 36, the high-pressure leak will not be able to cause the tube clamping device 10 to open. Furthermore, once the tube clamping device 10 is fully closed, fluid flow from the leak can flow through the seal of the tube clamping device, thereby clearing debris from the seal and improving the integrity of the sealed joint.

[0085] The joystick portion 34 can be Figure 1b The fully closed position is as shown in the arrow A in the figure to fully close the clamping assembly and the pipe clamping device 10. Figure 1cAs shown. The lever portion 34 operates in an over-center locking action and retains the first and second housing members 12, 14 in the fully closed position of the pipe clamping device 10. The mutually engaging sealing surfaces 20 at the first and second housing members 12, 14 are now in sealing engagement with each other, and the cylindrical pipe sealing surfaces 22 at each end of the pipe clamping device 10 are now in sealing engagement with the pipe 24. A closed cavity 40 is formed between the housings 12, 14 and the surface of the pipe 24. The cavity 40 is formed by two internal cavities defined by the first and second housing members 12, 14. Thus, the cavity 40 forms an annular space around the pipe 24. By defining the cavity 40 around the pipe 24, the pipe clamping device 10 can be placed around a leaking pipe without losing sealing integrity, where the leak results in an outwardly protruding pipe wall or an expanded pipe diameter. Furthermore, any protrusion of the pipe wall does not contact the pipe clamping device 10 or the sealing surfaces 20, 22 and, therefore, cannot cause any damage thereto. The cavity 40 may alternatively be filled with a coolant to chill the liquid within the tube in order to insulate the tube 24 , as described below.

[0086] Figures 1a to 1c Exemplary clamp assemblies 26, 30, and 36 are shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto. Any suitable method of clamping and securing the first and second housing members may be used. However, it has been found that the illustrated clamp assembly provides a quick and effective way to secure the first and second housing members around the pipe in a fluid-tight manner, and that the over-center locking action of the lever portion 34 maintains the first and second housing members 12 and 14 in the fully closed position in a manner that requires application of a positive force to the lever portion to open the pipe clamping device from the fully closed position. Thus, the fully closed position is a stable position.

[0087] Clamping components 26, 30, 36 Figures 1a to 1c Schematically shown in FIG. In practice, there may be a single link member 26 or two or more link members 26 arranged parallel to each other, and a single snap arm 30 or two or more snap arms 30 arranged parallel to each other. In a preferred embodiment, there are three snap arms 30, which are pivotally connected to the two link members 26. Two latch portions 38 extend transversely between the snap arms 30 and engage with two stop portions 36 on the second housing member 14, as shown in FIG. Figures 2 to 8 As shown in the embodiment.

[0088] Use pipe clamping devices to contain fluid leaking from pipes

[0089] Now refer to Figures 2 to 8 and Figure 13, shows a pipe clamping device 110 according to the present invention, which can be used to contain fluid leaking from a pipe at a leak location 90, referred to as a pipe repair embodiment. An exemplary leak location is Figure 4 However, in practice, leakage may occur at any location in the pipeline, for example not at a joint or fitting, and not just at the illustrated location 90. The first housing member 12 is connected to the second housing member 14 by a hinge. Figures 2 to 6 The pipe gripping device 110 is shown in a fully closed position, wherein the first and second housing members 12, 14 are positioned on the surface of the pipe 24 to define a closed cavity between the first and second housing members 12, 14 and the surface of the pipe 24. The first and second housing members 12, 14 are each provided with a planar, mutually engaging sealing surface 20. Figure 7 and Figure 8 . The sealing surfaces 20 provide a fluid-tight seal between the first shell member 12 and the second shell member 14. At least one of the mutually engaged sealing surfaces 20 has a first resilient sealing component 72a fixed thereto. In this example, the first resilient sealing component 72a is a seal comprising a strip of resilient material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90, preferably in the range of 40 to 80. It is housed in a first groove 70a extending along the sealing surface. The first resilient sealing component 72a may be provided on the sealing surface 20 of only one of the shell members 12, 14, with the sealing surface 20 of the other shell member being a planar surface adapted to mate with the first resilient sealing component 72a. Alternatively, the first groove 70a and the first resilient sealing component 72a may be provided on the sealing surfaces 20 of both shell members 12, 14, as Figure 13 They can be arranged to seal against each other or against planar portions of opposing sealing surfaces 20.

[0090] exist Figure 13 In the example shown, the upper groove 70a on the second housing 14 has a C-shaped seal forming a first resilient sealing member 72a fixed therein, while the lower groove 70a on the first housing 12 has a flatter seal forming a first resilient sealing member 72a fixed therein. Any suitable seal shape may be used for the first resilient sealing member 72a. Figure 13As can also be seen in the drawing, the walls of the upper and lower grooves 70a can taper inwardly, making the grooves wider at their bases than where they meet their respective sealing surfaces 20. This taper, combined with the shape of the seal, helps retain the seal in the groove without binding or otherwise getting stuck in place, and prevents the seal from popping out of the groove when the clamp is closed under high pressure. While retaining the seal, the tapered groove still allows the seal to move freely, and this has its advantages over bonded seals, allowing some parts of the seal to expand more than others on the uneven surface to be sealed against.

[0091] Each of the first housing member 12 and the second housing member 14 is provided with a pipe sealing surface 22 at each end, the pipe sealing surface 22 being generally semi-cylindrical in shape. Each pipe sealing surface 22 is provided with a second resilient sealing member 72b fixed thereto. In this example, the second resilient sealing member 72b is also a seal comprising a strip of resilient material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90, preferably in the range of 40 to 80. It is housed in the second groove 70b, as shown in FIG. Figure 4 、 7 and 8 , which can best be seen, extend along the sealing surface 22 to provide a fluid-tight seal between the outer surface of the conduit 24 and the housing members 12 , 14 .

[0092] Each of the first and second housing components 12, 14 is also provided with a cylindrical friction surface 23 adapted to provide frictional resistance against axial and / or rotational movement of the pipe gripping device 110 relative to the pipe 24. Each cylindrical friction surface 23 has a resilient friction member 68 secured thereto. In this example, the resilient friction member 68 is a strip of elastomeric material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 150, but selected such that its Shore A hardness is greater than that of the first and second resilient sealing members 72a, 72b. The resilient friction member 68 is retained in a friction groove 66 formed in the friction surface 23. The cylindrical pipe sealing surface 22 and the cylindrical friction surface 23, axially spaced apart from each other, are housed in a semi-cylindrical collar portion 64 that extends from each end of the housing components 12, 14 and, in the fully closed position, together form a collar that fits around the pipe 24.

[0093] Preferably, cylindrical pipe sealing surface 22 is arranged inside and parallel to cylindrical friction surface 23. In this way, pipe sealing surface 22 protects friction surface 23 from any fluid that leaks from the pipe because pipe sealing surface 22 seals against pipe 24 and prevents any leaked fluid from reaching friction surface 23. Furthermore, the frictional resistance of friction surface 23 to axial and / or rotational forces is not adversely affected by the presence of any fluid that leaks from pipe 24 to friction surface 23.

[0094] The resilient friction member 68 may be discontinuous in the circumferential direction in the closed position of the tube gripping device 110 to allow any leaking fluid to pass between the tube 24 and the cylindrical friction surface 23 .

[0095] The resilient friction member 68 serves to retain the pipe clamping device 110 on the pipe 24, while the resilient sealing members 72a, 72b provide a fluid-tight seal. Due to their different functions, different materials can be used. The properties of the resilient friction member 68 can be optimized to minimize movement of the pipe clamping device on the pipe, even when the pipe is subjected to vibration or other external forces. The resilient friction member 68 can be made of natural or synthetic rubber, rope, resin, metal coil, chain, or a fire-resistant barrier material. The resilient friction member 68 can be a porous but rigid material that forms a high-pressure leak safety and decompression isolation seal. The properties of the resilient sealing members 72a, 72b can be optimized to minimize leakage without having to select a material that can adapt to and resist vibration or other forces that could cause the pipe clamping device 110 to shift along the pipe 24. The resilient sealing members 72a, 72b can be made of natural or synthetic rubber, such as an elastomer with a Shore A hardness of 50 to 80. The resilient sealing members 72 a , 72 b may be formed from a solidified material disposed in grooves 70 a , 70 b formed in the sealing surfaces 20 , 22 of the housing components 12 , 14 .

[0096] One of the housing members, in this example the first housing member 12, is provided with a drain valve 62 that allows fluid to be drained from the enclosed chamber. The drain valve 62 is closed while repairs are being made to the pipeline, but can be opened later to release pressure from the pipeline.

[0097] The inner surfaces of the first shell member 12a and the second shell member 14a forming the outer walls of the closed cavity 40 are substantially semi-cylindrical. The diameter Dc of the cylindrical pipe sealing surface 22 is approximately equal to the outer diameter Dp of the pipe. The diameter Di of the semi-cylindrical inner surface 12a, 14a is greater than the outer diameter Dp of the pipe, typically at least 1.2 or 1.5 times the diameter Dp of the pipe. In one example, the pipe clamping device 110 for a pipe having an outer diameter Dp of 50 mm has an inner diameter Di of 100 mm. Thus, the cavity 40 formed between the shell 12, 14 and the surface of the pipe 24 allows the shell to be assembled over a portion of the leaking or bursting pipe where there are external fittings (such as bolted or welded connections or connections such as Figure 4 The embodiment of the present invention relates to a pipe having an outer wall protruding from a joint (e.g., an engagement collar 74 shown), or where the outer wall protrudes, or where the diameter of the pipe increases due to expansion or bulging, or where the exterior of the pipe corrodes, or where a weld joint fails.

[0098] While the over-center locking action of the lever portion 34 serves to maintain the pipe clamping device 110 in a stable position in its fully closed position, it is useful to prevent accidental opening of the pipe clamping device due to inadvertent operation of the lever portion 34. This can be achieved by a locking mechanism 60 operable to prevent movement of the clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 when the pipe clamping device 110 is in the fully closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a grub screw 60 disposed in a first threaded through-hole 61a in the snap arm 30. In the fully closed position, the first threaded through-hole 61a aligns with a second threaded hole 61b disposed in the snap arm retaining lug 27 of the first housing member 12. The locking mechanism 60 can be provided at each end of the pipe clamping device 110, allowing the device 110 to be locked from the most convenient end. Any suitable screw member 60 can be used in place of a grub screw. Alternatively, a locking pin (such as a dowel or a spring-loaded locking pin) may be used instead of a locking screw, in which case the holes 61a, 61b may be unthreaded.

[0099] The lever portion 34 of the snap arm 30 includes a handle 35 to allow manual operation of the lever portion to achieve closing of the pipe gripping device 110. However, in industrial applications and when using the device 110 to seal large pipes 24, the required force may be greater than the force applied manually to the handle 35. Therefore, the lever portion 34 may also include a tool aperture 76, such as a slot, adapted to receive a lever tool, such as a pry bar or a screwdriver blade, to enable the gripping assemblies 26, 30, 36 to be manipulated by the lever tool. The lever portion 34 may also include a tool receiving flange 78 on its edge furthest from the second pivot axis 32. In this example, the tool receiving flange 78 has flat upper and lower surfaces and a constant thickness, adapted to be engaged by the jaws of a wrench, spanner, adjustable spanner, or other suitable tool, to enable manipulation of the gripping assemblies 26, 30, 36 by the wrench, spanner, or tool. The tool aperture 76 and / or tool receiving flange 78 enable an operator to apply greater lever force to close or open the clamp assembly 26 , 30 , 36 .

[0100] Isolate the pipe by freezing it using pipe clamping equipment

[0101] Now refer to Figures 9 to 12 , shows a pipe clamping device 210 according to the present invention that can be used to isolate a pipe 24 by freezing the fluid carried in the pipe at a freezing location 92 in the pipe, referred to as a pipe freezing embodiment.

[0102] The pipe gripping device 210 is similar to Figures 2 to 8 The pipe gripping device 110 is shown and described as being opened and closed. The gripping assemblies 26, 30, 36 are identical and therefore will not be described further. Identical components have the same reference numerals.

[0103] The pipe clamping device 210 includes a first housing member 12 and a second housing member 14 connected by a hinge 16 and adapted to be positioned on a surface of a pipe 24 to define a closed cavity between the first and second housing members 12, 14 and the surface of the pipe 24. The clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 are operable to maintain the first and second housing members in sealing engagement with the pipe to seal the closed cavity 40 and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing members 12, 14 and the pipe 24, as described above with reference to Figures 1 to 2. Figure 8As shown. However, in this embodiment, the cavity 40 is not subjected to such high internal pressures, and therefore the requirements for the first and second resilient sealing members 72a, 72b of the mutually engaged sealing surface 20 and the pipe sealing surface 22 are different. They should be able to withstand low temperatures, but they do not need to be able to withstand such high pressure differences across the seal. Typical materials for the first and second resilient sealing members 72a, 72b are porous foam materials, such as nitrile rubber. A tape or sheet may be used for the first and second resilient sealing members 72a, 72b. It may be applied to one or both of the mutually engaged sealing surfaces 20. It may be applied to the semi-cylindrical pipe sealing surface 22. Alternatively, the first and second resilient sealing members 72a, 72b may be provided as described above with reference to the pipe repair embodiment.

[0104] Depending on the environment in which the pipe clamping device 210 is used to freeze the fluid in the pipe, the friction surface 23 may not be required at each end of the device 210. In this case, the friction groove 66 and the resilient friction member 68 can be omitted. The housing sleeve portion 64 that accommodates the friction surface 23 at each end of the device 210 can also be omitted. However, in situations where the freezing device 210 may be subjected to large forces, such as from vibration, the friction surface 23 and the resilient friction member 68 provided thereto may be retained.

[0105] Each of the first and second housing members 12, 14 is provided with an inlet 220 for attaching to a liquid refrigerant source, the inlet 220 being in communication with the enclosed chamber 40. If an inlet 220 is provided in each housing member 12, 14, the operator can select a location for attaching the liquid refrigerant source. Unused inlets 220 can be closed with a removable cap (not shown). However, in some embodiments, it is sufficient to provide an inlet 220 in only one housing member 12, 14.

[0106] Similarly, each of the first housing member 12 and the second housing member 14 is provided with an outlet 222 for removing liquid refrigerant, the outlet 222 being in communication with the closed cavity 40, thereby allowing the operator to select a location for draining the liquid refrigerant from the cavity 40. Unused outlets 222 may be closed by removable caps 223. However, in some embodiments, it may be sufficient to provide the outlet 222 on only one of the housing members 12, 14.

[0107] The cavity 40 contains a heat reflective foil 224 and an absorbent material 226 adapted to retain and at least partially hold liquid refrigerant introduced into the cavity 40 through the inlet 220. The heat reflective foil 224 extends around the interior of the cavity 40, including the semi-cylindrical walls and end walls of the shell members 12, 14. The heat reflective foil 224 is secured to the interior of each shell member 12, 14, and the absorbent material 226 is secured to the heat reflective foil 224 such that, in use, when the apparatus 210 is in the fully closed position, the absorbent material 226 fills the cavity 40 between the heat reflective foil 224 and the conduit 24.

[0108] By maintaining the housing components 12, 14 in sealing engagement with the pipe 24, the clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 compress the interengaging sealing surfaces 20 of the housing components 12, 14 and the resilient sealing member 72a therebetween. Simultaneously, the clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 urge the cylindrical pipe sealing surface 22 against the surface of the pipe, such that a fluid-tight seal is established between the surfaces of the housings 12, 14 and the pipe 24, provided by the resilient sealing member 72b. This seal is created to contain liquid refrigerant 94 introduced into the cavity 40 formed within the pipe clamping device 210.

[0109] The absorbent material 226 may be foam, sponge-like material, mineral wool or glass wool. The absorbent material 226 may be foil-backed mineral wool 228, e.g. If the absorbent material is a foil backing material 228, the foil backing 230 is preferably placed adjacent to the heat reflective foil 224 so that, in use, the mineral wool of the foil backing material 228 is adjacent to and in close contact with the pipe 24. This holds the liquid refrigerant 94 alongside the pipe 24 and ensures a slower release of boiling gas so that the pipe remains as cool as possible.

[0110] The heat reflective foil 224 is a reflective film with high thermal properties, a low temperature foil, a low temperature paper, a low temperature foil / paper composite, an aluminum foil or the like. Suitable heat reflective foils 224 are manufactured by Proctor Group

[0111] The heat reflective foil 224 is provided with holes 232. Figure 12As best seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG, holes 232 correspond to one or more inlets 220 and one or more outlets 222. The absorbent material 226 is provided with holes 234 corresponding to the one or more inlets 220, but there are no holes in the absorbent material 226 at the outlets. Instead, the absorbent material 226 extends through and at least partially covers the one or more outlets. This arrangement allows liquid refrigerant to easily pass through the heat-reflecting foil 224 at the inlet and through the holes 234 in the absorbent material 226 to the full depth of the absorbent material 226. Thus, the absorbent material 226 retains the evaporating fluid and holds it against the pipe wall, allowing the pipe to freeze faster. From there, it can flow through the absorbent material 226 along the length of the lumen 40 and in the annular space surrounding the lumen 40. As it becomes vapor, it finds its way around the absorbent material 226 to the outlets 222.

[0112] The inner surfaces of the first and second housing members 12, 14 may be provided with a localized protrusion 236, such as a pin or a spike, at least partially surrounding each outlet 222. The protrusion 236 is located at Figure 12 The purpose of the protrusions 236 is to provide a gap between the absorbent material 226 and the outlet 222 so that the absorbent material 226 does not block the outlet. This is particularly necessary where the absorbent material 226 is foil-backed mineral wool 228, as the foil backing 230 may block the outlet 222 without the local protrusions.

[0113] The liquid cryogen 94 is a liquefied gas having a boiling temperature below -70°C, preferably below -150°C. A suitable liquid cryogen is liquid nitrogen. Liquid carbon dioxide may also be used.

[0114] like Figure 11 As shown, the tube clamping device 210 may include an insulating jacket or shell 240 that substantially surrounds the first and second shell members 12, 14 to further insulate the tube clamping device 210 and improve the cooling effect on the tube 24. As shown by arrow 96, an insulated inlet conduit 238 may be used to deliver liquid refrigerant 94 from a source, such as a pressurized tank or bottle of liquid refrigerant, to the inlet 220 and through the inlet to the cavity 40. An insulated outlet conduit 242 may be connected at its first end to the outlet 222 and, at its second end, communicate with the cavity 244 between the insulating jacket 240 and the first and second shell members 12, 14. In this manner, the refrigerant properties of the liquid refrigerant are maximized to cool the tube clamping device 210 and the tube 24.

[0115] Alternatively, the insulating sheath 240 may also surround the outlet 222 through which the evaporated liquid refrigerant 94 leaves the cavity 40. In this case, a cover member (not shown) may partially cover the outlet 222 so that the evaporated liquid refrigerant 94 is diverted laterally within the cavity 244 between the insulating sheath 240 and the first shell member 12 and the second shell member 14. A secondary exhaust (not shown) may also be provided to carry nitrogen or other gases from the refrigerant to an external exhaust point to prevent gas accumulation in the enclosed room or space. The insulating sheath or shell 240 may be made of any suitable insulating material, including expanded polystyrene, expanded foam, porous plastic or card material, glass wool, or insulating fiber. The position of the inlet 220 and outlet 222 may be varied. For example, Figure 11 The positions of the inlet 220 and the outlet 222 shown in the first housing 12 may be interchanged.

[0116] As an alternative to the outer sheath, or in addition, the shell members 12, 14 can be formed with a rigid or semi-rigid porous structure, or can be hollowed through one or more openings in the inner cavity 40. The hollow shell members 12, 14 can be manufactured by 3D printing or by traditional casting and CNC machining. The shell members 12, 14 can include sections, channels, porous or honeycomb structures within the shell walls that allow the gas to circulate in the fixture walls before exiting. This will increase the efficiency of the heat transfer and will allow more of the cold air to be used before it leaves the device 210. Figure 14 and Figure 15 An example of a hollow shell member 12 is shown in FIG. A plurality of longitudinal channels 250 extend within the body of the shell 12. They are linked by transverse channels (not shown) to form a network of cavities within the body of the shell 12. A network inlet 252 provides a communication path between the enclosed cavity 40 of the shell and the channels 250, while a network outlet 254 provides a communication path between the channels 250 and the outlet 222. The liquid refrigerant, now in the gaseous phase, can pass through the network inlet 252 behind the absorbent material 226 and / or the heat reflective foil 224, enter the network of channels 250, and ultimately be discharged through the network outlet 254 and the shell outlet 22. As it does so, it keeps the shell cool, thereby obtaining the maximum cooling effect from the liquid refrigerant.

[0117] The following options apply to embodiments of a pipe clamping device for containing fluid leaking from a pipe and embodiments of a pipe clamping device for isolating a pipe by freezing the pipe.

[0118] The housing members 12 and 14 can be made, for example, from 30% glass-reinforced nylon (polyamide), such as R530H; 35% glass-reinforced nylon (polyamide), such as Zytel (RTM); or acetal (POM) copolymers, such as Hostaform (RTM) C9021 or Hostaform (RTM) C2521, or any other suitable plastic material. The housing members 12 and 14 can also be made from metal, such as steel, cast iron, stainless steel, or a metal alloy. Thermochromic materials, composite materials, and conventional and advanced materials used for additive manufacturing (3D printing) can also be used.

[0119] Although the pipe repair and pipe freezing embodiments of the pipe gripping device 10, 110, 210 have been described separately, it is contemplated that features of the two embodiments may be combined such that a single pipe gripping device 10, 110, 210 may be used for both pipe repair and pipe freezing applications. Figures 2 to 8 and Figure 13 The sealing surfaces 20, 22 and friction surface 23 described in the pipeline repair embodiment of FIG. 1 can be incorporated into the reference Figures 9 to 12 and Figures 14 and 15 When the pipe clamping device 10 , 110 , 210 is used in a pipe freezing application, the heat reflective foil 224 and the absorbent material 226 described with reference to the pipe freezing embodiment may be separately provided and installed in the pipe clamping device 10 , 110 , 210 .

[0120] In other embodiments, the clamping assembly may include other fastening components. For example, the fastening component may be a ratchet and pawl system. The ratchet may be a linear ratchet connected to one of the first and second housing members 12, 14. The pawl may be connected to the other of the first and second housing members 12, 14. The ratchet and pawl can be manually operated by inserting the linear ratchet into the pawl. Pressure applied to close the pipe clamping device causes elements of the linear ratchet to engage the pawl, holding the pipe clamping device in the closed position and preventing it from opening. This operation is similar to the operation of a pair of handcuffs or a zipper.

[0121] In some embodiments, the ratchet and pawl can be manually operated, with or without a lever. That is, when the first and second housing members are manually brought together, the ratchet and pawl can function to close the pipe clamping device. This action can be provided by a user of the pipe clamping device using one hand, i.e., the first and second housing members can be closed together using one hand to engage the ratchet and pawl.

[0122] In other embodiments, the ratchet and pawl system can also be tool-operated. For example, a ratchet handle can be attached to the ratchet and pawl mechanism located on the housing of the pipe clamping device, with operation of the handle tightening the closure of the device. In such an embodiment, the fastening component can include a release mechanism. The release mechanism can be, for example, a push-button release mechanism to quickly release the fastening component and allow for quick removal of the pipe clamping device.

[0123] In other embodiments, the fastening member 20 may be a coupling screw clamp type fitting or the like that includes a band that fits around the entire housing and can be tightened to hold the pipe gripping device in sealing engagement with the pipe.

[0124] It should be understood that other types of fastening components may also be used.

[0125] The first elastic sealing member 72a and the second elastic sealing member 72b may include seals of various materials. For example, the seals may be made of polyether-ester elastomer (TPE-E), such as Arnitel (RTM); or thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV), such as Santopene (RTM). Other possible materials are HNBR, FKM, EPDM, PTFE, Neoprene, Resins, Fiber Resins, Injectable Resins, Water or Fluid Expandable Materials.

[0126] In other embodiments, the seal may be formed on the sealing surfaces 20, 22. In other embodiments, the seal may be integrally formed as part of the sealing surfaces 20, 22. In further embodiments, the seal may form a "tongue and groove" arrangement, wherein a male portion (the tongue) of the seal formed on one of the first housing member 12 or the second housing member 14 interacts with a female portion (the groove) of the seal formed on the other of the first housing member 12 or the second housing member 14.

[0127] In some embodiments, the seals of the first and second resilient sealing members 72a, 72b may be removable. Removable seals allow for replacement of seals for different uses of the pipe clamping device 10, 110, 210. For example, if the system involves steam or hot fluids, a seal with high heat resistance may be installed. If the system involves chemical fluids, a seal with appropriate resistance to the specific fluid may be used. Furthermore, if a high-pressure system is encountered, a more rigid seal may be used.

[0128] In some embodiments, the sealing components of the first and second resilient sealing components 72a, 72b can include two or more separate seals of the same or different materials arranged side by side. In addition, a shutoff or pressure relief safety seal can be provided on the exterior of each of the first and second resilient sealing components to restrict fluid flow in the event of failure of the first and / or second resilient sealing components.

[0129] In some embodiments, the seal can be formed from a water-swellable polymer. For example, the seal can be formed from a polyurethane polymer. When water contacts the polymer's surface, water molecules predictably align around each polymer molecule until the polymer is "saturated" with water. Such materials are sold, for example, by Industrial Polymers Incorporated.

[0130] In one embodiment, a clamping device can be supplied without housing the first and second resilient sealing members within the first and second sealing grooves. Instead, the first and second sealing members can be made of a setting material, such as a silicone-based sealant or resin, that is applied to the grooves when the clamping device is about to be placed in service on the pipeline. One or both housing components can be adapted to provide fluid communication between one or more sealant channels and the grooves. Once the device is closed on the pipeline, sealant or resin can be pumped through the channels into the grooves and then allowed to cure or solidify to form the desired seals. Alternatively, sealant or resin can be pumped into the exposed grooves before the device is closed on the pipeline. This can provide a more permanent repair to contain any fluid leaking from a ruptured pipeline. An additional set of grooves can be placed outside each of the first and second grooves, allowing the resilient sealing member to be positioned in one groove, and then the sealant or resin can be pumped into the other groove. In this way, if the resilient sealing member degrades over time, the more permanent sealant or resin seal will still contain any leaked fluid.

[0131] In further embodiments, the seal may be formed to provide an electrofusion fitting, wherein an electric current is used to fuse the seal to the surface of the pipe.

[0132] Other embodiments and uses of the pipe gripping device are contemplated.

[0133] For example, the pipe clamping device 10, 110 may be used to provide a permanent joint between two portions of pipe, or as a pipe securing bracket.

[0134] Alternatively, the pipe gripping device 10, 110 can be used in conjunction with an electrical cable. The pipe gripping device 10, 110 can be placed around a damaged cable to provide electrical isolation for protection and / or safety. This can prevent injury to anyone who might come into contact with any exposed wiring and prevent further damage to the cable. The inner cavity of the pipe gripping device advantageously does not compress any exposed wires together.

[0135] Alternatively, the pipe gripping device 10, 110 can be used in conjunction with an unbroken but intact pipe to provide protection to the pipe and prevent the pipe from being damaged or broken. Alternatively, the pipe gripping device can be placed around a broken or damaged utility pole for temporary reinforcement. Alternatively, the pipe gripping device can be used in thermoset or electrofusion applications.

[0136] The pipe gripping device 10, 110 can be used on a pipe with a potential leak (e.g., a pipe that has been identified as having locally thin walls due to corrosion or wear) so that if the pipe does leak, any leaking fluid will be contained. In a related embodiment, the device can be modified so that nitrogen can be pumped into the chamber to inhibit or slow oxidation of the pipe.

[0137] In further use, the pipe gripping device 10, 110 can be installed around the following to contain leaks: garden hoses; hydraulic lines for, for example, tractors or excavators; gasoline pump hoses; and / or automobile radiator and / or brake lines. This can allow for temporary repair of vehicles at remote locations.

[0138] Alternatively, the pipe gripping device 110 can be used as a putty applicator, whereby the cavity is filled with hardened putty and then placed around the broken portion of the pipe. The putty can then be left to harden before the pipe gripping device is released, thereby leaving the putty in place to block any leaking fluid. Resin, cement, or the like can also be injected / pumped into the cavity of any pipe gripping device described herein, causing it to solidify in the cavity 40.

[0139] In an alternative embodiment, the enclosed cavity can accommodate water treatment using a filter. For example, when the present invention is used to connect two open-ended pipes, a filter can be located within the cavity, capable of capturing particulate matter within the fluid supply. In some embodiments, the filter can be a magnetic filter capable of attracting and retaining magnetic metals. The pipe clamping device can be used in drinking water systems.

[0140] When the pipe clamping device 110, 210 is used as part of a permanent or semi-permanent repair, once installed, a portion of the clamping arrangement can be removed to help reduce weight on the pipe and / or remove the need for pipe supports. This is particularly advantageous for larger clamping devices, but is still useful in temporary repair situations as it results in a lighter weight and more compact device left in place.

[0141] It is contemplated that in certain embodiments the pipe clamping device will be portable between pipes used in hydrocarbon and chemical systems and home heating, water and gas systems.

[0142] It is envisioned that the device disclosed herein may be used or applied in the following fields:

[0143] Household water / gas system

[0144] Commercial water / gas systems and utilities

[0145] Waste and sewage systems

[0146] ·Machinery and equipment in factories to maintain them

[0147] Cars, trucks and other vehicles

[0148] Less developed countries or other areas where there may be a shortage of plumbers

[0149] Oil drilling platforms, refineries, petrochemical plants

[0150] Seabed location

[0151] Spacecraft and other aerospace applications

[0152] Air lines

[0153] Hydraulic hose

[0154] Chemical plant

[0155] Ships, submarines and other marine machinery

[0156] On steel and threaded pipes where pipe repair and joint replacement are difficult

[0157] Fire hoses and garden hoses

[0158] Hospitals to maintain heating systems and repair pipes connected to patients in the event of accidental punctures or leaking fittings

[0159] Public housing for repairing punctured pipes and lines in ventilation systems

[0160] Pipelines for breweries

[0161] The clamping mechanism can also be used as an anchor or fixation for the pipe.

[0162] This detailed description describes embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments of the present invention may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A pipe clamping device for containing fluid leaking from a pipe, the pipe clamping device comprising: a first shell member and a second shell member connected by a hinge and adapted to be placed on a surface of a pipe to define an enclosed cavity between the first shell member and the second shell member and the surface of the pipe in a fully closed position of the pipe gripping device, and a clamp assembly operable to retain the first and second housing members in sealing engagement with the conduit to seal the enclosed cavity and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing members and the conduit, wherein the first housing member and the second housing member are each provided with mutually engaging sealing surfaces adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between the first housing member and the second housing member, at least one of the mutually engaging sealing surfaces having a first sealing groove, and wherein the first housing member and the second housing member are each provided with a pipe sealing surface adapted to provide a fluid-tight seal between a surface of the pipe and the housing member, each pipe sealing surface having a second sealing groove, Its characteristics are: The first housing member and the second housing member are each provided with a partially cylindrical friction surface, the partially cylindrical friction surface being separated from the pipe sealing surface and being adapted to provide frictional resistance against axial movement of the pipe clamping device relative to the pipe, each friction surface having a resilient friction member fixed thereto. 2 . The pipe clamping device according to claim 1 , further comprising a first elastic sealing member located in the first sealing groove and a second elastic sealing member located in the second sealing groove.

3. The pipe gripping device according to claim 2, wherein: The resilient friction component has a greater stiffness than the first and second resilient sealing components, and optionally, the resilient friction component comprises an arcuate strip of resilient material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 150, preferably in the range of 70 to 100.

4. The pipe clamping device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein: The first and second resilient sealing components each comprise a strip of resilient material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30-90, preferably in the range of 40-80.

5. The pipe gripping device according to claim 2, wherein: The elastic friction component includes an arcuate strip of elastic material, and the first elastic sealing component and the second elastic sealing component each include a strip of elastic material, and the Shore A hardness of the elastic material of the elastic friction component is greater than the Shore A hardness of the elastic material of the first elastic sealing component and the second elastic sealing component.

6. A pipe gripping device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: One of the first housing member and the second housing member is provided with a discharge valve that allows fluid to be discharged from the closed chamber.

7. A pipe gripping device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The inner surfaces of the first and second shell members forming the outer walls of the cavity are substantially semi-cylindrical in shape, The pipe sealing surface is substantially semi-cylindrical in shape and has a diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the pipe, and The diameter of the semi-cylindrical inner surface is larger than the outer diameter of the pipe, preferably at least 1.5 times the diameter of the pipe. Pipeline Freezing Example 8. A pipe clamping device for use with a pipe for isolating the pipe by freezing a fluid conveyed in the pipe, the pipe clamping device comprising: a first shell member and a second shell member connected by a hinge and adapted to be placed on a surface of the pipe to define a closed cavity between the first shell member and the second shell member and the surface of the pipe, and a clamp assembly operable to retain the first and second housing members in sealing engagement with the conduit to seal the enclosed cavity and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing members and the conduit, wherein one of the first shell member and the second shell member is provided with an inlet for attachment to a source of liquid refrigerant, the inlet being in communication with the closed cavity, wherein one of the first shell member and the second shell member is provided with an outlet for removing evaporated liquid refrigerant, the outlet being in communication with the closed cavity, and The cavity comprises a heat reflective material and an absorbent material, the absorbent material being adapted to hold and at least partially retain liquid refrigerant introduced into the cavity through the inlet, the absorbent material being located between the heat reflective material and the conduit during use.

9. The pipe gripping device according to claim 8, wherein: The first shell member and the second shell member are each provided with a sealing surface that engages with each other, and the sealing surfaces that engage with each other are suitable for providing a fluid-tight seal between the first shell member and the second shell member, at least one of the sealing surfaces that engage with each other has a first elastic sealing component fixed thereto, and wherein the first shell member and the second shell member are each provided with a pipe sealing surface, and the pipe sealing surface is suitable for providing a fluid-tight seal between the surface of the pipe and the shell member, each pipe sealing surface has a second elastic sealing component fixed thereto.

10. The pipe gripping device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The absorbent material is foam, sponge-like material, mineral wool or glass wool.

11. The pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein: The absorbent material is a foil backed mineral wool, wherein the foil is positioned adjacent the housing member so that, in use, the absorbent material is adjacent the duct.

12. A pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein: The heat reflective material is a reflective film with high thermal performance, such as low-temperature foil, low-temperature paper, low-temperature foil / paper composite material, aluminum foil or the like.

13. A pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein: One of the first and second shell members is provided with an inlet for attachment to a source of liquid refrigerant, each inlet being in communication with the enclosed cavity.

14. A pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein: Each of the first and second shell members is provided with an outlet for removing liquid refrigerant, each outlet being in communication with the closed cavity.

15. A pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein: The heat reflective material is attached to an inner surface of each of the first and second shell members.

16. The pipe gripping device of claim 15, wherein: The heat reflective material is provided with holes corresponding to the one or more inlets and the one or more outlets.

17. A pipe gripping device according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein: The absorbent material is attached to an inner surface of the heat reflective material.

18. The pipe gripping device of claim 17, wherein: The absorbent material is provided with apertures corresponding to one or more of the inlets, and the absorbent material extends across or at least partially covers one or more of the outlets.

19. The pipe gripping device of claim 18, wherein: The inner surfaces of the first and second shell members are provided with local protrusions, such as pins, which at least partially surround each outlet, thereby providing a gap between the absorbent material and the outlet so that the absorbent material does not block the outlet.

20. A pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 8 to 19, wherein The first elastic sealing member and the second elastic sealing member include a porous foam material, such as nitrile rubber.

21. A pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 8 to 20, wherein: The tube gripping device further includes an insulated inlet tube adapted to be connected to a source of liquid refrigerant and to one of the inlets to deliver liquid refrigerant to the inlet.

22. A pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 8 to 21, wherein The pipe gripping device further includes an insulating jacket substantially surrounding the first and second housing members.

23. The pipe gripping device of claim 22, wherein: The tube gripping device further includes an outlet conduit connected at a first end thereof to one of the outlets and in communication at a second end thereof with a cavity between the insulating jacket and the first and second housing members. Both embodiments 24. A pipe gripping device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The clamping assembly comprises: a link member pivotally connected to the first housing member at a first pivot axis, a snap arm pivotally connected to the link member at a second pivot axis parallel to and spaced apart from the first pivot axis, and a stop portion provided on the second housing member, The snap arm includes a lever portion and a latch portion, wherein the lever portion is operable to engage the latch portion with the stop portion to retain the first and second housing components in a fully closed position of the pipe clamping device.

25. The pipe gripping device of claim 24, wherein: The tube gripping device further includes a locking mechanism operable to prevent movement of the gripping assembly when the tube gripping device is in a fully closed position.

26. The pipe gripping device of claim 25, wherein: The locking mechanism includes a screw member disposed in a first threaded hole on the snap arm, and the screw member is engageable with a second threaded hole disposed on the first housing member.

27. A pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein The lever portion comprises a tool hole, such as a slot, adapted to insert a lever tool so as to enable the clamping assembly to be operated by the lever tool.

28. A pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein The lever portion includes a tool receiving flange at an edge thereof furthest from the second pivot axis, the tool receiving flange being adapted to be engaged by the jaws of an adjustable spanner to enable operation of the clamp assembly by the spanner.

29. A method of containing a fluid leak from a location in a pipe using a pipe gripping device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and 24 to 28, the method comprising: placing the first and second shell members around the pipe at the location such that the first and second shell members at least partially enclose the pipe at the location, operating the clamping assembly to close the first and second shell members about the pipe to define an enclosed cavity between the first and second shell members and the pipe surface in a fully closed position of the pipe clamping device, and operating the clamp assembly to retain the first and second housing members in sealing engagement with the conduit to seal the enclosed cavity and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing members and the conduit, The interengaging sealing surfaces are configured to provide a fluid-tight seal between the first and second housing members, the pipe sealing surfaces provide a fluid-tight seal between a surface of the pipe and each housing member, and the friction surfaces provide frictional resistance against axial movement of the pipe gripping device relative to the pipe.

30. A method of isolating a pipe at a location using the pipe gripping device of any one of claims 8 to 28 by freezing a fluid conveyed in the pipe at the location, the method comprising: placing the first and second shell members around the pipe at the location such that the first and second shell members at least partially enclose the pipe at the location, operating the clamping assembly to close the first and second shell members about the pipe to define an enclosed cavity between the first and second shell members and the pipe surface in a fully closed position of the pipe clamping device, and operating the clamp assembly to retain the first and second housing members in sealing engagement with the conduit to seal the enclosed cavity and provide a fluid-tight seal between the housing members and the conduit, introducing liquid refrigerant into the cavity through an inlet of one of the first shell member and the second shell member and through the heat reflective material, passing the liquid refrigerant through the absorbent material such that the liquid refrigerant is substantially dispersed throughout the absorbent material and contacts the tube at the location, The liquid refrigerant is allowed to exit the cavity through an outlet of one of the first shell member and the second shell member.

31. The method according to claim 30, wherein the liquid cryogen is a liquefied gas having a boiling temperature below -70°C, preferably below -150°C.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein The liquid cryogen is liquid nitrogen.

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