A connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers

Abstract

This utility model provides a connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in transmission towers, belonging to the technical field of transmission tower structures. The connection structure includes a deformable expansion sleeve, a first pipe fitting, and a second pipe fitting. The deformable expansion sleeve is a hollow tubular structure made of elastic material, with multiple expansion grooves along its outer surface and internal threads on its inner surface. The ends of both the first and second pipe fittings have external threads that match the internal threads of the deformable expansion sleeve. The deformable expansion sleeve is located between the first and second pipe fittings, which are screwed into it from both ends. The expansion grooves of the deformable expansion sleeve are elongated and evenly distributed along its circumference, with adjacent grooves parallel to each other. This design solves the problems of low assembly efficiency and insufficient connection strength and stability in traditional transmission line tower pipe fitting connection structures, achieving quick and convenient assembly and reliable connection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model belongs to the field of iron tower structure technology, and specifically relates to a connection structure for connecting iron tower pipe fittings. Background Technology

[0002] With the continuous advancement of power infrastructure construction, transmission line towers, as crucial support structures for power transmission, are being built on an increasingly large scale. To improve construction efficiency and reduce costs, easily assembled transmission line tower structures have become a key focus in the industry. Traditional tower structures are assembled primarily using bolted connections and welding. Bolted connections require a large number of bolts, nuts, and other connectors, increasing material costs. Furthermore, on-site installation involves significant time spent on bolt alignment and tightening, especially at heights, where the process is difficult, inefficient, and carries the risk of connection failure due to loose bolts. While welding ensures connection strength, it requires specialized welding equipment and technicians. The high temperatures generated during welding can easily cause component deformation, affecting the overall precision and stability of the tower. Additionally, subsequent maintenance and disassembly of welded areas are extremely difficult.

[0003] To address these issues, several improved structures for easier assembly have emerged in the industry, such as snap-fit ​​and plug-in connection structures. However, these structures still have many shortcomings in practical applications. While snap-fit ​​connection structures offer faster installation, the connection strength is limited. Under prolonged exposure to external forces such as wind and vibration, the snaps are prone to loosening or even detachment, making it difficult to guarantee the long-term stable operation of the tower. Plug-in connection structures require high precision in component manufacturing. Even minor errors can lead to loose connections, affecting the sealing and stability of the connection. Furthermore, under significant external forces, the plug-in joints are prone to relative slippage, reducing the tower's load-bearing capacity. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a connection structure for connecting iron tower pipe fittings, which solves the problems of low efficiency, insufficient connection strength and stability in the assembly of traditional transmission line iron tower pipe fitting connection structures, and realizes fast and convenient assembly and reliable connection.

[0005] This utility model is implemented as follows:

[0006] This utility model provides a connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers, comprising a deformable expansion sleeve, a first pipe fitting, and a second pipe fitting; the deformable expansion sleeve is a hollow tubular structure made of elastic material, with multiple expansion grooves along the axial direction on its outer surface and internal threads on its inner surface; the ends of the first and second pipe fittings are each provided with external threads that match the internal threads of the deformable expansion sleeve; the deformable expansion sleeve is located between the first and second pipe fittings, and the first and second pipe fittings are screwed into the deformable expansion sleeve from both ends respectively.

[0007] The technical advantages of the connection structure for connecting iron tower pipe fittings provided by this utility model are as follows: By designing the deformable expansion sleeve as a hollow tube with internal threads, and matching it with the external threads at the end of the pipe fitting, the threaded pre-connection between the pipe fitting and the expansion sleeve is achieved, which facilitates preliminary assembly and positioning; the setting of elastic material and expansion groove allows the expansion sleeve to deform and expand when subjected to radial pressure, tightly gripping the pipe fitting, enhancing connection strength and sealing, and automatically compensating for minor errors between pipe fittings, thus improving connection stability; the overall structure is simple, easy to install and disassemble, and reduces construction difficulty and time costs.

[0008] Based on the above technical solution, the connection structure of this utility model for connecting iron tower pipe fittings can be further improved as follows:

[0009] The expansion grooves of the deformable expansion sleeve are elongated and evenly distributed along the circumference of the deformable expansion sleeve, with adjacent expansion grooves being parallel to each other.

[0010] The uniform distribution along the circumferential direction of the deformable expansion sleeve specifically includes:

[0011] Uniform angular spacing: With the central axis of the deformable expansion sleeve as a reference, the included angle between the centerlines of two adjacent expansion grooves is equal. For example, when four expansion grooves are set, the included angle between the centerlines of adjacent expansion grooves is 90°; if six expansion grooves are set, the included angle between the centerlines of adjacent expansion grooves is 60°, and so on. By setting the angle precisely, the expansion grooves are evenly distributed in the circumferential direction, so that the expansion sleeve can deform evenly when subjected to radial pressure.

[0012] Fixed spacing: The arc length spacing between adjacent expansion grooves along the circumference of the deformable expansion sleeve remains consistent. That is, the distance between any two adjacent expansion grooves along the circumferential curve of the outer surface of the expansion sleeve is equal. This fixed spacing helps to ensure uniform stress distribution in various parts during the expansion process of the sleeve, avoiding the impact on the stability and reliability of the connection structure due to local stress concentration.

[0013] Symmetrical arrangement: The expansion grooves are evenly distributed symmetrically around the central axis of the deformable expansion sleeve. Whether there are an even or odd number of expansion grooves, they are arranged symmetrically around the central axis. For example, with an even number of expansion grooves, they can be paired symmetrically about the central axis; with an odd number of expansion grooves, one expansion groove is located in a specific reference direction, and the remaining expansion grooves are symmetrically distributed around the central axis, thus ensuring that the deformation performance of the expansion sleeve is consistent in all directions.

[0014] The elongated and evenly distributed expansion grooves along the circumference enable the expansion sleeve to deform uniformly in all parts when subjected to radial pressure, avoiding local over-expansion or under-expansion, ensuring that the clamping force of the expansion sleeve on the pipe fitting is evenly distributed, and further improving the stability and reliability of the connection; the evenly distributed design also helps the expansion sleeve to release stress evenly during the deformation process, extending the service life of the expansion sleeve.

[0015] Furthermore, the inner diameter of the deformable expansion sleeve remains consistent from one end to the other, and the outer diameter also remains consistent from one end to the other, with chamfers provided at both ends of the opening.

[0016] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned improvement scheme are as follows: the consistent inner and outer diameters of the deformable expansion sleeve facilitate production, processing and quality control; the chamfer design at both ends can effectively reduce the resistance when the pipe is screwed in, prevent scratching the surface of the pipe, and at the same time facilitate operators to quickly and accurately screw the pipe into the expansion sleeve, thereby improving assembly efficiency.

[0017] Furthermore, the first and second pipe fittings are screwed into the ends of the deformable expansion sleeve, and an annular boss is provided near the external thread. The outer diameter of the annular boss is larger than the inner diameter of the deformable expansion sleeve. When the first and second pipe fittings are screwed into place, the annular boss abuts against the end of the deformable expansion sleeve.

[0018] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned improvement scheme are as follows: the annular bosses at the ends of the first and second pipe fittings abut against the end of the deformable expansion sleeve after the pipe fittings are screwed into place, which plays a limiting role, ensuring the accurate screwing depth of the pipe fittings and ensuring the consistency of the connection; at the same time, the annular bosses increase the contact area between the pipe fittings and the expansion sleeve, further enhancing the stability of the connection and preventing the pipe fittings from axially moving in the expansion sleeve.

[0019] Furthermore, it also includes a pressure member for applying radial pressure to the deformable expansion sleeve. The pressure member includes two semi-annular pressure blocks that can be joined together to form a complete ring structure that fits over the deformable expansion sleeve. The inner sidewall of the pressure block is adapted to the shape of the outer surface of the deformable expansion sleeve. The pressure block is provided with bolt holes, and the two pressure blocks are fastened together by bolts passing through the bolt holes, thereby applying radial pressure to the deformable expansion sleeve.

[0020] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned improved scheme are as follows: the two semi-annular pressure blocks of the special tool pressure component can be spliced ​​into a ring and sleeved on the outside of the expansion sleeve. The inner side wall is adapted to the outer surface of the expansion sleeve, which can uniformly apply radial pressure to the expansion sleeve and ensure uniform deformation of the expansion sleeve. The operation is simple by fastening the pressure blocks with bolts. The pressure can be precisely controlled according to actual needs, thereby realizing precise adjustment of the expansion degree of the expansion sleeve and meeting the requirements of different connection conditions.

[0021] Furthermore, the outer wall of the pressure block is provided with anti-slip texture to facilitate hand operation by the operator.

[0022] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned improvement scheme are as follows: the anti-slip texture on the outer wall of the pressure block increases the friction when the operator holds it, preventing the pressure block from slipping during operation and improving operational safety; at the same time, it makes it easier for the operator to apply force, making the operation of tightening the pressure block easier and more convenient, and improving construction efficiency.

[0023] Furthermore, the internal thread of the deformable expansion sleeve is a triangular thread with a uniformly distributed pitch, and the thread depth is adapted to the depth of the external threads at the ends of the first and second pipe fittings.

[0024] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned improvement scheme are as follows: the use of ordinary triangular threads with uniform pitch and appropriate depth ensures the reliability and stability of the threaded connection between the pipe fitting and the expansion sleeve, which can transmit a large torque and prevent connection failure due to loose threads during assembly or use; the mature ordinary triangular thread design also facilitates the processing, manufacturing, maintenance and replacement of parts.

[0025] Furthermore, the outer surfaces of both the first and second pipe fittings at the points where they connect with the deformable expansion sleeve are treated with rust prevention, such as galvanizing or coating with rust-preventive paint.

[0026] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned improvement scheme are as follows: the rust prevention treatment of the connection between the first and second pipe fittings effectively prevents the pipe fittings from rusting and corroding in complex outdoor environments, extends the service life of the pipe fittings, ensures the long-term stability and safety of the connection structure, and reduces maintenance costs and replacement frequency.

[0027] Furthermore, multiple scale lines indicating the degree of expansion of the sleeve are provided at axial intervals on the outer surface of the deformable expansion sleeve.

[0028] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned improvement scheme are as follows: the scale lines on the outer surface of the expansion sleeve provide operators with an intuitive reference for the degree of expansion of the expansion sleeve, enabling them to accurately control the pressure applied by the special tool, avoid over-expansion or under-expansion of the expansion sleeve, ensure that the connection quality meets the requirements, and also facilitate quality inspection and control during the construction process.

[0029] Furthermore, the length of the deformable expansion sleeve is greater than the sum of the lengths of the screw-in portions of the first and second pipe fittings, so that after the first and second pipe fittings are screwed in, both ends of the deformable expansion sleeve have a portion of their length exposed.

[0030] The beneficial effects of adopting the above-mentioned improvement scheme are as follows: the length of the deformable expansion sleeve is greater than the sum of the lengths of the screw-in parts of the pipe fitting, so that both ends of the expansion sleeve are exposed, making it convenient for operators to observe the connection between the expansion sleeve and the pipe fitting and to detect any potential problems in a timely manner; when the expansion sleeve needs to be maintained or replaced, the exposed part is also easy to operate, reducing the difficulty of maintenance and improving maintenance efficiency.

[0031] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the connection structure for connecting iron tower pipe fittings provided by this utility model are:

[0032] The deformable expansion sleeve connection structure provided by this utility model significantly improves the performance of transmission line tower pipe fitting connections from multiple dimensions. In terms of assembly convenience, the pre-connection of the deformable expansion sleeve to the pipe fitting via threads enables rapid initial positioning without complex alignment operations. Compared to traditional bolt connections that require tightening numerous bolts individually, and welding that necessitates specialized equipment and complex operations, this structure greatly simplifies the assembly process. Subsequent operations involving applying radial pressure to the expansion sleeve using specialized tools are also very simple. Even in complex working environments such as high altitudes, construction personnel can quickly complete the connection, significantly shortening construction time and improving construction efficiency.

[0033] In terms of connection strength and stability, the deformable expansion sleeve can tightly grip the pipe fitting after expansion, forming a comprehensive enclosure. Its evenly distributed expansion grooves ensure that the sleeve is evenly stressed throughout during deformation, avoiding localized stress concentration and guaranteeing a uniform distribution of the clamping force on the pipe fitting. This tight and uniform connection effectively resists external forces such as wind and vibration, significantly enhancing connection reliability compared to the low strength of traditional snap-fit ​​connections and the ease of slippage in plug-in connections. Simultaneously, the elastic deformation characteristics of the expansion sleeve can automatically compensate for minor errors between pipe fittings. Even if there are certain deviations in the pipe fittings during processing or installation, it does not affect the overall connection effect, further improving connection stability. Attached Figure Description

[0034] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this utility model, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments of this utility model will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this utility model. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0035] Figure 1 This is an example diagram of a connection structure used for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers;

[0036] Figure 2 A side view of a connection structure used for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers;

[0037] The attached diagram lists the components represented by each number as follows:

[0038] 10. Deformable expansion sleeve; 11. Expansion groove; 12. Pressure block; 20. First pipe fitting; 30. Second pipe fitting; 40. Annular boss. Detailed Implementation

[0039] 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.

[0040] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 The diagram shows a first embodiment of a connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers provided by this utility model. In this embodiment, it includes a deformable expansion sleeve 10, a first pipe fitting 20, and a second pipe fitting 30. The deformable expansion sleeve is a hollow tubular structure made of elastic material, with multiple expansion grooves 11 along the axial direction on its outer surface and internal threads on its inner surface. The ends of the first pipe fitting 20 and the second pipe fitting 30 are both provided with external threads that match the internal threads of the deformable expansion sleeve. The deformable expansion sleeve is located between the first pipe fitting 20 and the second pipe fitting 30, and the first pipe fitting 20 and the second pipe fitting 30 are screwed into the deformable expansion sleeve from both ends.

[0041] First, screw the deformable expansion sleeve into the end of the first pipe fitting and use the threaded connection to initially fix it; then, align the second pipe fitting with the other end of the expansion sleeve and screw it in, so that the first and second pipe fittings are screwed into the expansion sleeve from both ends, completing the initial assembly; finally, use a special tool to apply radial pressure to the expansion sleeve, so that the expansion sleeve deforms and expands along the expansion groove, achieving a tight connection of the pipe fittings.

[0042] In the above technical solution, the expansion grooves 11 of the deformable expansion sleeve 10 are elongated and evenly distributed along the circumferential direction of the deformable expansion sleeve 10, and adjacent expansion grooves 11 are parallel to each other.

[0043] Furthermore, in the above technical solution, the inner diameter of the deformable expansion sleeve 10 remains consistent from one end to the other, and the outer diameter also remains consistent from one end to the other, with chamfers provided at both ends of the opening.

[0044] Furthermore, in the above technical solution, the first pipe fitting 20 and the second pipe fitting 30 are screwed into the end of the deformable expansion sleeve 10. An annular boss 40 is provided near the external thread. The outer diameter of the annular boss 40 is larger than the inner diameter of the deformable expansion sleeve 10. When the first pipe fitting 20 and the second pipe fitting 30 are screwed into place, the annular boss 40 abuts against the end of the deformable expansion sleeve 10.

[0045] Furthermore, the above technical solution also includes a pressure member for applying radial pressure to the deformable expansion sleeve 10. The pressure member includes two semi-annular pressure blocks 12. The two pressure blocks 12 can be spliced ​​into a complete ring structure and fitted onto the outside of the deformable expansion sleeve 10. The inner sidewall of the pressure block 12 is adapted to the shape of the outer surface of the deformable expansion sleeve 10. The pressure block 12 is provided with bolt holes. The two pressure blocks 12 are fastened together by bolts passing through the bolt holes, thereby applying radial pressure to the deformable expansion sleeve.

[0046] Furthermore, in the above technical solution, the outer wall of the pressure block 12 is provided with anti-slip texture to facilitate hand operation by the operator.

[0047] Furthermore, in the above technical solution, the internal thread of the deformable expansion sleeve 10 is a triangular thread with a uniformly distributed pitch, and the thread depth is adapted to the depth of the external thread at the end of the first pipe fitting 20 and the second pipe fitting 30.

[0048] Furthermore, in the above technical solution, the outer surfaces of the first pipe fitting 20 and the second pipe fitting 30 at the connection points with the deformable expansion sleeve 10 are both treated with rust prevention, such as galvanizing or coating with rust-preventive paint.

[0049] Furthermore, in the above technical solution, multiple scale lines for indicating the degree of expansion of the sleeve are provided at intervals along the axial direction on the outer surface of the deformable expansion sleeve 10.

[0050] Furthermore, in the above technical solution, the length of the deformable expansion sleeve 10 is greater than the sum of the lengths of the screw-in portions of the first pipe fitting 20 and the second pipe fitting 30, so that after the first pipe fitting 20 and the second pipe fitting 30 are screwed in, both ends of the deformable expansion sleeve have a portion of their length exposed.

[0051] Specifically, the principle of this utility model is as follows:

[0052] The core technology of this deformable expansion sleeve connection structure lies in its ingenious utilization of the elastic deformation characteristics of the expansion sleeve to achieve a tight connection of pipe fittings. The deformable expansion sleeve is made of elastic material, possessing excellent elasticity and plasticity. Multiple axially distributed expansion grooves on its outer surface are key to achieving uniform deformation. When a special tool applies radial pressure to the expansion sleeve, these expansion grooves provide space for deformation, allowing the sleeve to expand uniformly outward along the circumference, thus tightly fitting the outer surface of the pipe fitting.

[0053] During the connection process, the internal thread of the deformable expansion sleeve is first pre-connected to the external thread of the pipe fitting end. This threaded connection method not only achieves the initial positioning of the pipe fitting and the expansion sleeve, but also provides a basis for the subsequent expansion of the expansion sleeve. The annular boss at the end of the pipe fitting acts as a limit during screwing, ensuring accurate screwing depth and guaranteeing the consistency of the connection. When the expansion sleeve expands, the annular boss and the end of the expansion sleeve fit tightly together, further enhancing the stability of the connection and preventing axial movement of the pipe fitting.

[0054] The design of the specialized pressure components and their fit with the expansion sleeve are also crucial. Two semi-annular pressure blocks can be joined to form a ring that fits around the expansion sleeve. The inner wall of the pressure block matches the shape of the outer surface of the expansion sleeve, allowing for the even distribution of radial pressure. By tightening the pressure blocks with bolts, construction personnel can precisely control the pressure according to actual needs, thus achieving accurate adjustment of the expansion sleeve's expansion degree. This pressure adjustment mechanism enables the connection structure to adapt to different pipe fitting specifications and various connection conditions.

Claims

1. A connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers, characterized in that, It includes a deformable expansion sleeve, a first pipe fitting, and a second pipe fitting; the deformable expansion sleeve is a hollow tubular structure made of elastic material, with multiple expansion grooves along the axial direction on its outer surface and internal threads on its inner surface; the ends of the first pipe fitting and the second pipe fitting are both provided with external threads that match the internal threads of the deformable expansion sleeve; the deformable expansion sleeve is located between the first pipe fitting and the second pipe fitting, and the first pipe fitting and the second pipe fitting are screwed into the deformable expansion sleeve from both ends respectively.

2. The connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers according to claim 1, characterized in that, The expansion grooves of the deformable expansion sleeve are elongated and evenly distributed along the circumference of the deformable expansion sleeve, with adjacent expansion grooves being parallel to each other.

3. The connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers according to claim 2, characterized in that, The inner diameter of the deformable expansion sleeve remains consistent from one end to the other, and the outer diameter also remains consistent from one end to the other. Both ends of the sleeve have chamfers.

4. The connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first and second pipe fittings are screwed into the ends of the deformable expansion sleeve. An annular boss is provided near the external thread. The outer diameter of the annular boss is larger than the inner diameter of the deformable expansion sleeve. When the first and second pipe fittings are screwed into place, the annular boss abuts against the end of the deformable expansion sleeve.

5. A connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers according to claim 4, characterized in that, It also includes a pressure member for applying radial pressure to the deformable expansion sleeve. The pressure member includes two semi-annular pressure blocks that can be spliced ​​together to form a complete ring structure that is fitted over the deformable expansion sleeve. The inner sidewall of the pressure block is adapted to the shape of the outer surface of the deformable expansion sleeve. The pressure block is provided with bolt holes, and the two pressure blocks are fastened together by bolts passing through the bolt holes, thereby applying radial pressure to the deformable expansion sleeve.

6. A connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers according to claim 5, characterized in that, The outer wall of the pressure block is provided with anti-slip texture to facilitate hand operation by the operator.

7. A connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers according to claim 6, characterized in that, The internal thread of the deformable expansion sleeve is a triangular thread with a uniformly distributed pitch, and the thread depth is adapted to the depth of the external threads at the ends of the first and second pipe fittings.

8. A connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers according to claim 7, characterized in that, Both the first and second pipe fittings have rust-proof treatment on their outer surfaces at the points where they connect with the deformable expansion sleeve.

9. A connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers according to claim 8, characterized in that, On the outer surface of the deformable expansion sleeve, there are multiple scale lines spaced along the axial direction to indicate the degree of expansion of the expansion sleeve.

10. A connection structure for connecting pipe fittings in iron towers according to claim 9, characterized in that, The length of the deformable expansion sleeve is greater than the sum of the lengths of the screw-in portions of the first and second pipe fittings, so that after the first and second pipe fittings are screwed in, both ends of the deformable expansion sleeve have a portion of their length exposed.

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