A duct flange connecting piece and a duct flange having the same
The duct flange connector, designed with locking parts and locking mechanisms, solves the problem of cumbersome traditional connection methods, enabling quick assembly and disassembly and high-pressure sealing, and extending the service life of the duct.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- NO 63921 UNIT OF PLA
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-06-12
AI Technical Summary
Existing duct flange connection methods are cumbersome to install and disassemble, and frequent disassembly will reduce service life, which cannot meet the requirements of rapid disassembly and high-pressure sealing in the aerospace field.
The duct flange connector, designed with a locking part and locking mechanism, enables quick connection and disassembly through a snap-fit structure. Combined with multiple sealing grooves and elastic seals, it enhances the sealing effect and high pressure resistance.
It simplifies the installation and disassembly process of duct flanges, improves the ability to quickly disassemble and assemble, avoids component damage, extends the service life of ducts, and improves sealing performance and high pressure resistance.
Smart Images

Figure CN224352607U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of duct connection technology, specifically to a duct flange connector and a duct flange having the same. Background Technology
[0002] In high-precision fields such as aerospace, duct systems must be capable of rapid assembly and disassembly, and possess a certain degree of resistance to strong external airflow. For example, during a space launch, the air conditioning supply system needs to be rapidly assembled according to mission requirements, quickly disassembled after launch, and possess a certain degree of resistance to the impact of strong exhaust plume gas to maintain the airtightness and integrity of the supply system, be reusable, and improve the reliability of environmental protection capabilities. Therefore, the ability to be repeatedly and rapidly assembled and disassembled, and to ensure good sealing at the joints, are essential for ensuring the reliable operation of the system.
[0003] Currently, existing duct connection methods generally place the connection structure directly on the duct flange, achieving splicing through bolt tightening and gasket sealing. While this traditional connection method is widely used, it lacks the ability for rapid assembly and disassembly. First, traditional bolt-fastened duct flange connections require the continuous tightening of multiple bolts. To ensure a good seal, tightening cannot be done in one go; each bolt requires multiple operations to be properly installed. Frequent disassembly can cause scratches and deformation on the flange surface, weakening its fit with the gasket and accelerating the decline in sealing performance. Furthermore, since the connection structure is directly exposed to the airflow environment, the scouring effect of high-pressure gas at the connection point will exacerbate component wear and shorten the overall service life of the duct. Utility Model Content
[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a duct flange connector and a duct flange having the same, to solve the problem that traditional duct flanges are cumbersome to install and disassemble, lack quick assembly and disassembly capabilities, and that frequent disassembly reduces the service life of the duct flange.
[0005] In a first aspect, this utility model provides a duct flange connector, comprising:
[0006] A first connector and a second connector are disposed opposite to each other on the outer circumferential surfaces of two duct flanges that need to be connected. The first connector is provided with a locking part, and the second connector is provided with a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is adapted to engage with the locking part to achieve a fixed connection between the first connector and the second connector.
[0007] Optionally, the locking part is a locking groove formed on the side of the first connector opposite to the second connector, and the locking mechanism includes:
[0008] A locking element is rotatably and detachably mounted on the second connecting member, and one end of the locking element is adapted to engage with the locking groove.
[0009] A fixing component is disposed at the other end of the locking member, and the fixing component is adapted to fix the locking member in the locking groove when the locking member is engaged in the locking groove.
[0010] Optionally, the locking groove is a U-shaped locking groove disposed on the first connector, and the opening of the U-shaped locking groove is oriented away from the second connector. The locking component includes a U-shaped pull rod and a locking block. The locking block conformally fits the U-shaped locking groove. The U-shaped pull rod is rotatably and detachably disposed on the second connector. The locking block is disposed at the connecting arm position of the U-shaped pull rod. The opening of the U-shaped pull rod is oriented away from the first connector.
[0011] Optionally, the fixing component includes a rotating member, a fixing member, and a fixing screw. The U-shaped pull rod has a first threaded hole on the side away from the snap-fit block, and the fixing member has a second threaded hole. One end of the fixing member is rotatably mounted on the second connecting member through the rotating member. When the snap-fit block is placed in the U-shaped locking groove, the U-shaped pull rod and the fixing member at least partially abut against each other, and the first threaded hole and the second threaded hole are coaxial. The fixing screw is threadedly connected to the first threaded hole and the second threaded hole respectively.
[0012] Optionally, it also includes a fixing nut, which is disposed on one end of the fixing screw near the fixing member, and the fixing nut abuts against the fixing member to limit the displacement of the U-shaped tie rod and the fixing member.
[0013] Optionally, the first connector has at least two first stepped surfaces recessed on the surface opposite to the second connector, and the second connector has at least two second stepped surfaces protruding outward to conformally fit the first stepped surfaces, and at least two sealing grooves are formed between the at least two first stepped surfaces and the at least two second stepped surfaces respectively.
[0014] At least two seals, each of which is disposed in one of the sealing grooves.
[0015] Optionally, at least two of the sealing grooves are staggered.
[0016] Optionally, the sealing element is an elastic thermal insulation gasket.
[0017] Beneficial effects
[0018] The duct flange connector provided by this utility model includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector and the second connector are disposed opposite to each other on the outer peripheral surfaces of two duct flanges that need to be connected. The first connector is provided with a locking part, and the second connector is provided with a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is adapted to engage with the locking part to achieve a fixed connection between the first connector and the second connector.
[0019] The duct flange connector provided by this utility model consists of a first connector and a second connector positioned opposite each other on the outer circumference of the duct flange. A fixed connection is achieved by the locking mechanism engaging with the locking part. Compared to traditional bolt fastening, this simplifies the installation and disassembly process of the duct flange, eliminating the need to repeatedly tighten multiple bolts and improving rapid assembly and disassembly capabilities. Simultaneously, it avoids damage to the flange surface caused by frequent disassembly, effectively maintaining the fit between the flange and the sealing components, and ensuring a good seal at the connection. Furthermore, this connection structure reduces the exposure and wear of components in the airflow environment, minimizing the impact of high-pressure gas erosion on the components, thereby extending the overall service life of the duct.
[0020] Secondly, this utility model also provides a duct flange, comprising:
[0021] Main components;
[0022] Multiple duct flange connectors as described above are arranged circumferentially around the main body.
[0023] Optionally, the first connector and the second connector are respectively welded onto the main body using angle steel. Attached Figure Description
[0024] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of this utility model or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.
[0025] Figure 1 This is a front view of a duct flange according to an embodiment of the present utility model;
[0026] Figure 2 This is a front view of a duct flange connector according to an embodiment of the present utility model;
[0027] Figure 3 This is a side view of a duct flange connector according to an embodiment of the present utility model;
[0028] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0029] 1. First connecting piece; 11. Locking groove; 2. Second connecting piece; 21. U-shaped pull rod; 22. Locking block; 23. Rotating part; 24. Fixing part; 25. Fixing screw; 26. Fixing nut;
[0030] 31. Sealing groove; 32. Sealing element;
[0031] 4. Main components;
[0032] 5. Angle steel. Detailed Implementation
[0033] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this utility model clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this utility model, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the protection scope of this utility model.
[0034] The following is combined Figures 1 to 3 The following describes embodiments of the present invention.
[0035] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in one aspect, a duct flange is provided, comprising:
[0036] The first connector 1 and the second connector 2 are disposed opposite to each other on the outer circumferential surfaces of the two duct flanges that need to be connected. The first connector 1 is provided with a locking part, and the second connector 2 is provided with a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is adapted to be engaged in the locking part to achieve a fixed connection between the first connector 1 and the second connector 2.
[0037] It should be noted that the first connecting member 1 and the second connecting member 2 can be disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the duct flange by means of detachable connection or fixed connection. In this embodiment, in order to ensure the stable fixation of the first connecting member 1 and the second connecting member 2, a welding connection is selected for fixation; in other embodiments, a detachable connection such as a bolt connection can also be selected for fixation.
[0038] The duct flange connector provided in this embodiment is fixedly connected by a first connector 1 and a second connector 2 disposed opposite to each other on the outer circumferential surface of the duct flange and by a locking mechanism engaging with the locking part. Compared with the traditional bolt fastening method, this simplifies the installation and disassembly process of the duct flange, eliminating the need to repeatedly tighten multiple bolts and improving the ability to quickly disassemble and assemble. At the same time, it avoids damage to the flange surface caused by frequent disassembly, effectively maintains the fit between the flange and the sealing components, and ensures the sealing effect at the connection. In addition, this connection structure reduces the exposure and wear of components in the airflow environment and reduces the impact of high-pressure gas scouring on the components, thereby extending the overall service life of the duct.
[0039] Furthermore, the locking part is a locking groove 11 formed on the side of the first connector 1 opposite to the second connector 2, and the locking mechanism includes:
[0040] A locking element is rotatably and detachably mounted on the second connecting member 2, and one end of the locking element is adapted to be engaged in the locking groove 11.
[0041] A fixing component is provided at the other end of the locking member. The fixing component is adapted to fix the locking member in the locking groove 11 when the locking member is engaged in the locking groove 11.
[0042] In an easy-to-understand way, by setting the locking part as the locking groove 11 on the opposite side of the first connector 1, and with the rotating and detachable locking part and fixing component, the locking part can be quickly rotated and locked into the locking groove 11, and the fixing component can lock the locking part immediately, realizing quick assembly and disassembly; the rotating and detachable structural design makes the connector suitable for flexible assembly of ducts of different specifications, and the locking function of the fixing component ensures that the locking structure does not loosen under high pressure conditions, meeting the dual requirements of quick assembly and disassembly of duct connections and high pressure sealing in the aerospace field, while reducing component wear caused by frequent disassembly and extending the service life of the duct system.
[0043] Furthermore, the locking groove 11 is a U-shaped locking groove 11 provided on the first connecting member 1, and the opening of the U-shaped locking groove 11 is set in a direction away from the second connecting member 2. The locking member includes a U-shaped pull rod 21 and a locking block 22. The locking block 22 fits into the U-shaped locking groove 11. The U-shaped pull rod 21 is rotatable and detachably provided on the second connecting member 2. The locking block 22 is provided at the connecting arm position of the U-shaped pull rod 21. The opening of the U-shaped pull rod 21 is set in a direction away from the first connecting member 1.
[0044] The U-shaped locking groove 11, U-shaped pull rod 21, and locking block 22 are designed to fit together, allowing the locking components to quickly engage or disengage from the locking groove 11 along the rotation axis. The entire connection and disassembly process is simple and requires no additional complex tools; a single person can complete the duct connection and disassembly in a short time, effectively improving maintenance efficiency. The U-shaped structure increases the contact area, evenly distributing pressure under high pressure, preventing leakage caused by excessive local stress, enhancing connection stability and sealing, and ensuring reliable operation of the duct system. The locking block 22 has a clearance groove for the U-shaped pull rod 21 to avoid interference. By moving the locking block towards or away from the locking groove, the position of the connecting arm of the U-shaped pull rod 21 can be fixed or its restriction released.
[0045] In one alternative embodiment, the locking groove 11 can be replaced with a trapezoidal groove, and the locking component is correspondingly designed as a trapezoidal wedge, which achieves locking through the inclined surface engagement; in another alternative embodiment, the locking groove 11 can also be designed as an L-shaped groove, and the locking component adopts an L-shaped hook rod, which is fixed by rotating and hooking, to meet the needs of quick disassembly and assembly and stable connection of duct flange connectors in different scenarios.
[0046] Furthermore, the fixing assembly includes a rotating member 23, a fixing member 24, and a fixing screw 25. The U-shaped pull rod 21 has a first threaded hole on the side away from the snap-fit block 22, and the fixing member 24 has a second threaded hole. One end of the fixing member 24 is rotatably mounted on the second connecting member 2 via the rotating member 23. When the snap-fit block 22 is placed in the U-shaped snap-fit groove 11, the U-shaped pull rod 21 and the fixing member 24 at least partially abut against each other, and the first threaded hole and the second threaded hole are coaxial. The fixing screw 25 is threadedly connected to the first threaded hole and the second threaded hole respectively.
[0047] Specifically, the fixing member 24 is rotatably connected to the second connecting member 2 via the rotating member 23. When connecting the air duct, the snap-fit block 22 on the U-shaped pull rod 21 is snapped into the U-shaped locking groove 11 of the first connecting member 1, and the U-shaped pull rod 21 is pulled until it abuts against the fixing member 24. At this time, the first threaded hole and the second threaded hole are coaxial. The fixing screw 25 is screwed into the first threaded hole and the second threaded hole in sequence. By tightening the fixing screw 25, the U-shaped pull rod 21, the fixing member 24 and the second connecting member 2 are tightly connected.
[0048] It is easy to understand that the U-shaped tie rod 21 is securely fixed by means of threaded connection. When the locking block 22 is placed in the U-shaped locking groove 11, the U-shaped tie rod 21 and the fixing member 24 are tightly locked by the engagement of the fixing screw 25 with the first and second threaded holes, forming a stable force structure, which effectively resists the impact and vibration of airflow under high pressure conditions and avoids gas leakage caused by loosening of the locking member. The installation and disassembly process only requires the use of a conventional wrench to tighten the fixing screw 25, which is simple and efficient, improves the connection efficiency, and facilitates later maintenance and repair.
[0049] Specifically, in this embodiment, the rotating component 23 is a bolt. In other embodiments, the rotating component 23 may be a pin or a shaft.
[0050] It should be noted that, in an optional embodiment, the fixing screw 25 may not be provided. A first extension section is provided on the side of the U-shaped pull rod 21 away from the snap-fit block 22, and a second extension section is provided on the fixing member 24. One end of the fixing member 24 is rotatably mounted on the second connecting member 2 via the rotating member 23. When the snap-fit block 22 is placed in the U-shaped locking groove 11, the U-shaped pull rod 21 and the fixing member 24 at least partially abut against each other, and the first extension section and the second extension section partially abut against each other, and the connection is achieved by welding.
[0051] In an optional embodiment, the fixing component can also be designed as a snap-lock fixing component, which includes a rotating locking plate, an elastic buckle, and a limiting slot. The rotating locking plate is rotatably mounted on the second connecting member via a pin, with its free end extending to the locking position of the U-shaped pull rod; the elastic buckle is located inside the rotating locking plate, made of spring steel or rubber, and has a wedge-shaped protrusion at its end; the limiting slot is correspondingly opened on the outside of the U-shaped pull rod, and is adapted to the wedge-shaped protrusion of the elastic buckle. When the locking block is engaged in the U-shaped locking slot, the rotating locking plate covers the U-shaped pull rod and causes the elastic buckle to embed into the limiting slot, and the wedge-shaped protrusion forms an interference fit with the inner wall of the slot, achieving automatic locking; during disassembly, pressing the elastic buckle disengages it from the slot, and rotating the locking plate releases the lock. Although mechanical snap-fit connections are simpler and faster to operate than threaded connections and avoid thread wear, making them suitable for high-pressure duct systems that require frequent disassembly and assembly, their fixing effect is inferior to that of threaded connections. In practical applications, appropriate selection and replacement should be made based on the application scenario of the duct flange.
[0052] Furthermore, the two ends of the rotating part 23 can be axially fixed by nuts, snap rings or limit blocks to prevent the U-shaped tie rod 21 from falling off.
[0053] Furthermore, it also includes a fixing nut 26, which is disposed on the end of the fixing screw 25 near the fixing member 24, and the fixing nut 26 abuts against the fixing member 24 to limit the displacement of the U-shaped tie rod 21 and the fixing member 24.
[0054] It is easy to understand that the added fixing nut 26 is used to improve the fixing effect between the fixing member 24 and the U-shaped tie rod 21; during disassembly, the fixing nut 26 and the fixing screw 25 are loosened in the opposite direction, and the U-shaped tie rod 21 can be moved to release the fixation.
[0055] Furthermore, the first connector 1 has at least two first stepped surfaces recessed on the surface opposite to the second connector 2, and the second connector 2 has at least two second stepped surfaces protruding outward to conformally fit the first stepped surfaces. At least two sealing grooves 31 are formed between the at least two first stepped surfaces and the at least two second stepped surfaces respectively.
[0056] At least two seals 32 are provided, each of which is disposed in a sealing groove 31.
[0057] In a straightforward manner, the recessed first stepped surface of the first connector 1 conformally fits the convex second stepped surface of the second connector 2, forming multiple sealing grooves 31 and embedding the sealing element 32. This multi-layered sealing structure enhances the overall sealing performance. Under high-pressure conditions, the multiple sealing grooves 31 can progressively alleviate gas pressure and reduce the risk of gas leakage, resulting in improved sealing performance compared to a single sealing structure. The stepped surface fit not only enhances the sealing effect but also provides positioning guidance for the connectors, enabling the first and second connectors to align quickly and accurately, reducing installation and commissioning time. Furthermore, the independent sealing groove 31 design facilitates the replacement and maintenance of the sealing element 32 without disassembling the entire flange connector, reducing maintenance costs and effectively ensuring the stable operation and safety performance of duct systems in aerospace and other fields under high-pressure environments.
[0058] Furthermore, at least two sealing grooves 31 are staggered.
[0059] It is easy to understand that the staggered layout makes the seal 32 more evenly stressed, avoids seal failure caused by local pressure concentration, and further improves seal stability.
[0060] Furthermore, the sealing element 32 is an elastic thermal insulation gasket.
[0061] Specifically, in this embodiment, the seal 32 is made of 15mm thick flame-retardant B1-grade elastic thermal insulation material. Of course, in other embodiments, the seal 32 can be made of any material that ensures a good sealing effect.
[0062] According to an embodiment of the present invention, another aspect provides a duct flange, comprising:
[0063] Main component 4;
[0064] Multiple duct flange connectors, as described above, are arranged at intervals around the main body in four directions.
[0065] Specifically, in the practical application of duct flanges, the number of flange connectors needs to be flexibly configured according to the shape and size of the duct. For circular ducts, connectors are distributed at equal angles along the circumference. Small circular ducts typically have 4-6 connectors to ensure uniform stress on the circumference and ensure sealing. Medium-sized circular ducts have 6-8 connectors, and large circular ducts require more than 8 connectors to enhance connection stability. For rectangular ducts, connectors are arranged at the middle of the four sides and at the corners. Small rectangular ducts have 1-2 connectors per side, medium rectangular ducts have 2-3 per side, and large rectangular ducts have 3-4 per side, forming multi-point fixation to prevent deformation due to uneven pressure. By adapting the number of connectors to the duct specifications, regardless of whether the duct is circular, rectangular, or other irregularly shaped, a tight connection can be ensured at all parts, meeting the usage requirements of different sized ducts in high-pressure environments. At the same time, it avoids increasing costs and installation complexity due to too many connectors, or affecting connection reliability due to too few connectors.
[0066] Furthermore, the first connecting piece 1 and the second connecting piece 2 are respectively welded onto the main body 4 by angle steel 5.
[0067] Specifically, the first connector 1 and the second connector 2 are welded to the main body 4 by angle steel 5. The angle steel 5 has good structural strength and rigidity, and the welding process can firmly combine the connector with the main body 4 to form a stable mechanical structure, which can effectively withstand gas pressure and mechanical vibration under high pressure conditions. The welding connection method is tight and reliable, which can reduce connection gaps and reduce the risk of gas leakage. At the same time, compared with bolt connection and other methods, it can save installation time and improve production efficiency. In addition, the angle steel 5 has low material cost and is easy to obtain. The welding operation technology is mature and easy to mass-produce, ensuring the stable application of duct flanges in aerospace and other fields.
[0068] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A duct flange connector, characterized in that, include: A first connector (1) and a second connector (2) are disposed opposite to each other on the outer circumferential surfaces of two duct flanges that need to be connected. A locking part is provided on the first connector (1), and a locking mechanism is provided on the second connector (2). The locking mechanism is adapted to engage with the locking part to achieve a fixed connection between the first connector (1) and the second connector (2).
2. The duct flange connector according to claim 1, characterized in that, The locking part is a locking groove (11) formed on the side of the first connector (1) away from the second connector (2), and the locking mechanism includes: A locking element is rotatably and detachably mounted on the second connector (2), and one end of the locking element is adapted to be engaged in the locking groove (11); A fixing component is disposed at the other end of the locking member, and the fixing component is adapted to fix the locking member in the locking groove (11) when the locking member is engaged in the locking groove (11).
3. The duct flange connector according to claim 2, characterized in that, The locking groove (11) is a U-shaped locking groove (11) provided on the first connector (1), and the opening of the U-shaped locking groove (11) is set in a direction away from the second connector (2). The locking member includes a U-shaped pull rod (21) and a locking block (22). The locking block (22) fits into the U-shaped locking groove (11). The U-shaped pull rod (21) is rotatable and detachably provided on the second connector (2). The locking block (22) is provided at the connecting arm position of the U-shaped pull rod (21). The opening of the U-shaped pull rod (21) is set in a direction away from the first connector (1).
4. The duct flange connector according to claim 3, characterized in that, The fixing assembly includes a rotating part (23), a fixing part (24), and a fixing screw (25). The U-shaped pull rod (21) has a first threaded hole on the side away from the snap-fit block (22). The fixing part (24) has a second threaded hole. One end of the fixing part (24) is rotatably mounted on the second connector (2) through the rotating part (23). When the snap-fit block (22) is placed in the U-shaped locking groove (11), the U-shaped pull rod (21) and the fixing part (24) at least partially abut against each other. The first threaded hole and the second threaded hole are coaxial. The fixing screw (25) is threadedly connected to the first threaded hole and the second threaded hole respectively.
5. The duct flange connector according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a fixing nut (26), which is disposed on one end of the fixing screw (25) near the fixing member (24) and abuts against the fixing member (24) to limit the displacement of the U-shaped tie rod (21) and the fixing member (24).
6. The duct flange connector according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, The first connector (1) has at least two first stepped surfaces recessed on the surface opposite to the second connector (2), and the second connector (2) has at least two second stepped surfaces protruding outward to conform to the first stepped surfaces. At least two sealing grooves (31) are formed between the at least two first stepped surfaces and the at least two second stepped surfaces respectively. At least two seals (32) are disposed in one of the sealing grooves (31).
7. The duct flange connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, At least two of the sealing grooves (31) are staggered.
8. The duct flange connector according to claim 6, characterized in that, The sealing element (32) is an elastic heat-insulating gasket.
9. A duct flange, characterized in that, include: Main component (4); A plurality of duct flange connectors as described in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the plurality of duct flange connectors are circumferentially spaced around the body member (4).
10. The duct flange according to claim 9, characterized in that, The first connector (1) and the second connector (2) are respectively welded to the main body (4) by angle steel (5).