Connection set for metallic corrugated pipes and assembly methods
A non-metallic, heat-malleable plastic locking mechanism for metallic corrugated pipes addresses the high cost of existing connectors by offering a durable and leak-proof connection through heat-induced deformation and sealing, achieving cost savings without compromising quality.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE102025121902
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-06-19
- Filing Date
- 2025-06-04
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-04
AI Technical Summary
Existing connectors for metallic corrugated pipes, typically made of copper or stainless steel, are expensive and there is a need for a cost-effective alternative that maintains durability and fluid-tightness in connections.
A connection set comprising a non-metallic, preferably plastic, locking mechanism that engages with the corrugated pipe through heat-induced deformation, using a heat-malleable plastic material to form a plug or slip-on connection, and optionally includes a sealing element to prevent leakage.
The solution provides a cost-effective, durable, and fluid-tight connection for metallic corrugated pipes, reducing material costs while maintaining structural integrity and preventing leaks.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a connection set for metallic corrugated pipes and in particular to an assembly method for mounting the connection set to a corrugated pipe end.
[0002] Corrugated pipes are widely used in pipeline construction and have a broad range of applications, from solar thermal systems and hot water and buffer storage tanks to heating and plumbing systems, as well as district and long-distance heating networks. Metallic corrugated pipes, such as those made of stainless steel, are often used for these applications.
[0003] To integrate corrugated pipes into a pipeline or connect them to fittings, pumps, and the like, connectors are typically used. These connectors allow for a connection to a corrugated pipe end and also provide a defined coupling point, for example, to which a mating connector or directly another pipe, fitting, pump, or similar device can be sealed.
[0004] The fittings are usually made of copper or stainless steel to meet the requirements for installation in drinking water systems, heating and cooling systems, solar thermal systems, and similar systems. As a result, these fittings have been relatively expensive until now.
[0005] Against this background, there is a need to provide a connection for preferably metallic corrugated pipes using a different material than previously used, provided that the connection between the fitting and the corrugated pipe is still sufficiently durable and / or fluid-tight. This is based on the expectation of achieving cost savings, preferably without any significant loss of quality.
[0006] Fundamental improvements in this regard are offered by a connection set for, for example, metallic corrugated pipes, comprising a preferably non-metallic connection part with a receptacle to form a plug connection with a length section of, for example, a metallic corrugated pipe, and in particular comprising a locking part with a material section which is arranged to engage in an engagement position in a corrugation trough of the corrugated pipe in order to form a lock against axial detachment of the corrugated pipe from the receptacle.
[0007] In particular, the receptacle has a central axis extending in a insertion direction. Specifically, the receptacle is circumferentially bounded by a circumferential wall extending around the central axis. Furthermore, the receptacle has a transverse surface arranged transversely, particularly orthogonally, to the central axis, for example, to align a longitudinal end of the corrugated tube with it. For example, the transverse surface serves as a boundary for the corrugated tube when it is inserted into the receptacle.
[0008] For example, the receptacle is designed to accept the insertion of the corrugated pipe section. In this case, the receptacle is designed as an insertion receptacle. Alternatively, the receptacle can be designed to allow the insertion of the corrugated pipe section over its circumferential wall. In this case, the receptacle is designed as a slip-on receptacle.
[0009] In particular, the material section in the engagement position has a radial extension with respect to the central axis. For example, in the engagement position, the radial extension of the material section extends away from the circumferential wall of the receptacle. Specifically, the material section is circumferential around the central axis. For example, the material section is completely circumferential around the central axis, or circumferential with at least one interruption, or circumferential with at least one circumferential segment.
[0010] In the present disclosure, the term "corrugated pipe" refers in particular to a pipe or pipe section which has a corrugated diameter that varies in shape. For example, a corrugation of the corrugated pipe comprises a crest, to which, viewed axially, a flank extends, leading into a trough from which the crest of another corrugation then extends. The corrugations of the corrugated pipe can run parallel to each other in a ring-like pattern. Alternatively, the corrugations of the corrugated pipe can run in a spiral pattern. Preferably, the corrugation makes the pipe flexible to a certain degree. In the context of the present disclosure, the term "corrugated pipe" also includes a corrugated hose.
[0011] In one possible embodiment, the material section of the locking element comprises or consists of a heat-malleable plastic material and is specifically designed to be brought into the engagement position by heat-induced deformation. This is based on the principle that the locking mechanism is formed by a preferably targeted deformation of the plastic material. This deformation can be achieved simply and therefore cost-effectively by pressing or flanging. For example, it only requires the application of a forming force in the axial direction or in the insertion direction. In this respect, the locking mechanism can be implemented cost-effectively. Furthermore, the plastic material itself offers a cost advantage for the locking element compared to, for example, a metal material.
[0012] In the present disclosure, the term "malleable" or "malleability" refers in particular to the property of the plastic material to undergo a preferably permanent deformation when subjected to external stress under heat. This deformation can be achieved by pressing or flanging. The heating of the plastic material can be achieved by ultrasound.
[0013] The material section of the locking element can be designed to be radially deformed inwards to bring it into the engagement position. This design is advantageous when the receptacle of the connecting part is designed to accommodate the length of the corrugated tube.
[0014] Alternatively, the material section of the locking element can be designed to be radially deformed outwards to be brought into the engagement position. This design is advantageous when the receptacle of the connecting element is designed to allow the longitudinal section of the corrugated tube to be slipped over its circumferential wall.
[0015] The fuse element can be designed to be arranged on the terminal element. For example, the fuse element can be designed to be attached to the terminal element. Alternatively, the fuse element can be formed on the terminal element, in particular, it can be molded onto the terminal element. For example, the fuse element and the terminal element can be manufactured or formed from a single piece.
[0016] In one embodiment, the material section of the locking element is formed on an axial longitudinal segment of the circumferential wall of the receptacle. Specifically, the material section of the locking element is formed by the axial longitudinal segment of the circumferential wall. This facilitates a technically simple implementation of the locking element, as the locking element can be manufactured as part of the connecting element during the manufacturing process of the connecting element. It also promotes a high degree of functional integrity, since the function of the locking element can be performed by the connecting element itself, thus eliminating the need for a separate locking element. This, in turn, results in cost advantages.
[0017] In this embodiment, for example, the circumferential wall of the receptacle is designed to be radially deformed inwards along the axial length section, which is present, for example, in the area of the inlet-side opening of the receptacle, in order to form the stop. This is advantageous when the receptacle is designed to accommodate the length section of the corrugated tube. For example, the radial inward deformation of the circumferential wall achieves or can achieve a radial taper of the receptacle in the area of its inlet-side opening, particularly the insertion opening. For example, the opening area of the inlet-side opening is reduced as a result of the radial inward deformation of the circumferential wall.
[0018] Alternatively, the circumferential wall of the receptacle can be designed to be radially deformed outwards along its axial length to form the locking mechanism. This is advantageous when the receptacle is designed to accommodate the length of the corrugated tube. For example, radially deforming the circumferential wall outwards achieves, or can achieve, a radial expansion.
[0019] In another embodiment, the locking element is a separate component, or the locking element and the connection element are separate components. For example, the connection element and the locking element each have a flange section. For example, the connection element and the locking element, at least in the area of the flange sections, have or consist of a thermally joinable plastic material, in particular a thermoplastic plastic material, and are, for example, designed to be joined to each other at the flange sections by thermal joining.
[0020] This facilitates simple and therefore cost-effective attachment of the fuse to the connector, for example, to position the fuse relative to the connector in a predetermined target position. Thermal joining can be achieved through welding, such as laser welding and / or ultrasonic welding. Furthermore, the use of plastic as a material, compared to metal, offers a cost advantage for both the fuse and / or the connector.
[0021] For example, the connection part and the locking part are designed to be thermally joined at the flange sections in such a way that the material section of the locking part is in the engagement position relative to the corrugated tube. This allows the locking mechanism to be implemented cost-effectively. This only requires the thermal joining process that would be necessary anyway to connect the locking part to the connection part.
[0022] In one embodiment of the proposed connection set, the locking element is a ring element, in particular a circular ring element. For example, the ring element has an inner and an outer side along its circumference. For example, the ring element has a front and a back side in the axial direction.
[0023] In one possible embodiment, the flange section of the locking element is formed on the rear side of the ring element. In this case, the flange section of the connecting element can be formed on a transverse side extending transversely, particularly orthogonally, to the central axis. For example, in the engagement position, the inner side of the ring element projects radially inward relative to the inner side of the circumferential wall of the receptacle. This is advantageous if the receptacle is designed as a plug-in receptacle. Alternatively, in the engagement position, the outer side of the ring element can project radially outward relative to the outer side of the circumferential wall of the receptacle. This is advantageous if the receptacle is designed as a snap-on receptacle. The transverse side can be an end face of the connecting element, particularly an end face of the circumferential wall of the receptacle.
[0024] This allows the joint formed by the flange sections to be located in a transverse surface, particularly one running orthogonally to the central axis. Thermal joining is then possible by heating in the circumferential direction along the circumferential wall of the receptacle. Welding using a laser beam, also referred to as "laser welding" in this disclosure, is suitable for this purpose. Welding can also be carried out by ultrasound, also referred to as "ultrasonic welding" in this disclosure. Alternatively or additionally, thermal joining is possible by heating in the axial direction with respect to the central axis, for example, across the front face of the ring element. This can be achieved by ultrasonic welding.
[0025] In another possible embodiment, the flange section of the locking element is formed on the outside of the ring element. In this case, the flange section of the connecting element can be formed on the inside of the circumferential wall of the receptacle. For example, in the engagement position, the inside of the ring element then protrudes radially inwards relative to the inside of the circumferential wall of the receptacle. This embodiment is suitable when the receptacle is designed as a plug-in receptacle.
[0026] In yet another embodiment, the flange section of the locking element is formed on the inside of the ring element. In this case, the flange section of the connecting element can be formed on the outside of the circumferential wall of the receptacle. For example, in the engagement position, the outside of the ring element then projects radially outwards relative to the outside of the circumferential wall of the receptacle. This embodiment is suitable when the receptacle is designed as a slip-on receptacle.
[0027] In these other embodiments, the joint formed by the flange sections can be located on a circumferential surface extending around the central axis. Thermal joining can then be achieved by heating in the axial direction with respect to the central axis, for example, via the front face of the ring element and / or the end face of the receptacle. This can be accomplished by ultrasonic welding.
[0028] It is advantageous for the ring element to be designed as an open ring. For example, the ring element is slotted, particularly in the axial direction. This facilitates the assembly of the ring element onto the corrugated tube, as the ring element can be expanded radially to such an extent that it can be pulled onto the corrugated tube axially or radially. This design is particularly suitable when, with respect to the engagement position, the ring element is intended to engage in a trough of the corrugation present on the outer circumference of the corrugated tube.
[0029] It is also advantageous for the circumferential wall of the connecting part to be designed as an open ring, at least over a front axial section. For example, the circumferential wall of the connecting part can be slotted, at least over the front axial section. This promotes slight elasticity in the radial direction. This facilitates the insertion of the ring element into the receptacle, for example, if the flange section of the locking element is formed on the outside of the ring element and the flange section of the connecting part is formed on the inside of the circumferential wall of the receptacle.
[0030] In a further or different embodiment of the proposed connection set, the locking element is designed as a ring segment. One possible configuration consists in the circumferential wall of the connection element forming a partial circumference of the receptacle over a front axial length section, and the locking element having a base structure comprising the material section. This base structure is particularly designed to form a further partial circumference of the receptacle, at least over the front axial length section. This facilitates the adaptation of the base structure, and in particular the material section, to the contour of the corrugated tube in the region of the corrugation trough into which the material section engages in the engagement position.
[0031] The recess itself can also be used to engage the corrugation trough. This is the case, for example, if the circumferential wall of the connecting part has a circumferentially extending ridge designed to engage a corrugation trough or the corrugation trough of the corrugated pipe. For example, the contour of the ridge is shaped to match the contour of the material section of the retaining part.
[0032] For example, the circumferential wall provided in the front longitudinal section of the receptacle and the basic structure of the locking element each form a half-shell. Preferably, the half-shells are designed to fit together. For example, the half-shells form the circumferential contour of the receptacle. This facilitates simple manufacturing and / or assembly.
[0033] In another embodiment, the material section of the locking element is designed to act as a seal against the corrugated pipe in the engagement position. This prevents or at least counteracts leakage. For example, the area of the material section that engages in the trough of the corrugation is adapted to the contour of the corrugated pipe in this area.
[0034] In another embodiment, the connection set can include a sealing element designed to seal against both the corrugated pipe and the circumferential wall of the connection part's receptacle. Multiple sealing elements can also be provided. This measure also aims to prevent or at least counteract leakage. The at least one sealing element can be an additional sealing measure. For example, the sealing element could be an O-ring.
[0035] The connector and / or the locking component can be made of plastic. In this case, the connector or the locking component is made of or consists of a plastic material. Preferably, the plastic material is thermoplastic, i.e., it is made of or consists of a thermoplastic. For example, the connector and / or the locking component is an injection-molded part, i.e., a component manufactured by injection molding. Preferably, the connector and the locking component are made of or consist of the same plastic material. These measures also aim to ensure that the connector set can be produced cost-effectively. Furthermore, this facilitates the thermal joining and / or thermal forming described above.
[0036] One aspect proposes a connection arrangement comprising a corrugated pipe to which the aforementioned connection set is mounted at least at one end. The corrugated pipe can be made of stainless steel or another metallic material.
[0037] For example, in the connection set, the material section of the locking element, as described above, is made of heat-moldable plastic and is designed to be brought into engagement by heat-induced deformation. In this case, in the proposed connection arrangement, the material section of the locking element is brought into engagement with a corrugation trough of the corrugated tube by heat-induced deformation.
[0038] For example, in the connection set, the connecting part and the locking part each have the flange section described above and, at least in the area of the flange sections, a thermally joinable plastic material. In this case, in the proposed connection arrangement, the connecting part and the locking part are thermally joined to each other in such a way that the material section of the locking part engages in a trough of the corrugated tube.
[0039] A further aspect is addressed by proposing a method for mounting the aforementioned connection set to a corrugated pipe. The connection set is the embodiment with the heat-formable locking element. The assembly method includes, for example, the following steps: i) Making a plug connection with one end of the corrugated tube and the receiving part of the connection set; ii) Transferring the material section of the locking element from an initial position to a locking position by forming under heat, wherein in the initial position the corrugated tube can be joined with the connecting part and in the locking position the material section engages in a corrugation trough of the corrugated tube.
[0040] In addition, a method for mounting the connection set described above to a corrugated pipe is proposed, wherein the connection set is in the embodiment in which the connection part and the locking part each have flange sections and, at least in the area of the flange sections, have a thermally bondable plastic material. In this case, the assembly method comprises, for example, the following steps: i) Making a plug connection with one end of the corrugated tube and the receiving part of the connection set; ii) Connecting the locking part to the connecting part by thermal joining such that the material section of the locking part is engaged in a corrugation trough opposite the corrugated tube.
[0041] Further details and features will become apparent from the following description of several exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawing. These show Fig. 1 A first exemplary embodiment of a connection set for corrugated pipes in a perspective view and mounted on an exemplary corrugated pipe, Fig. 2 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 1 in an assembly state, shown as a longitudinal section, Fig. 3 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 1 in a final assembly state, shown as a longitudinal section, Fig. 4 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 1 in the assembled state of the Fig. 2, shown in an enlarged section, Fig. 5 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 1 in the final assembly state of the Fig. 3, shown in an enlarged section, Fig. 6 a second exemplary embodiment of a connection set for corrugated pipes in a perspective view and mounted on an exemplary corrugated pipe, Fig. 7 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 6 in a final assembly state, shown as a longitudinal section, Fig. 8 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 6 in the final assembly state of the Fig. 7, shown in an enlarged section, Fig. 9 a third exemplary embodiment of a connection set for corrugated pipes in a perspective view and mounted on an exemplary corrugated pipe, Fig. 10 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 9 in a final assembly state, shown as a longitudinal section, Fig. 11 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 9 in an enlarged detail view in the area of a slot, Fig. 12 a fourth exemplary embodiment of a connection set for corrugated pipes in a perspective view and mounted on an exemplary corrugated pipe, Fig. 13 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 12 in an assembly state, shown as a longitudinal section, Fig. 14 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 12 in a final assembly state, shown as a longitudinal section, Fig. 15 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 12 in the assembled state of the Fig. 13, shown in an enlarged section, Fig. 16 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 12 in the final assembly state of the Fig. 13, shown in an enlarged section, Fig. 17 a fifth exemplary embodiment of a connection set for corrugated pipes in a perspective view and mounted on an exemplary corrugated pipe, Fig. 18 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 17 in an assembled state, and Fig. 19 the connection set and the corrugated pipe of the Fig. 17 in a final assembly state, shown as a longitudinal section.
[0042] Fig. Figures 1 to 5 show – in a schematic representation – a first exemplary embodiment of a connection set 1 for corrugated pipes, in particular metallic corrugated pipes. The connection set 1 is shown, by way of example, mounted on a corrugated pipe 100 and is located in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 4 in an assembly state on the corrugated pipe 100 and in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 5 in a final assembly state. The corrugated pipe is, for example, a stainless steel corrugated pipe.
[0043] The exemplary connection set 1 comprises a connection part 10 with a receptacle 11 to form a plug connection with a length section 110 of the corrugated tube 100 (see, for example, Fig. 2) For example, the longitudinal section 110 of the corrugated tube 100 is an end section. For example, the longitudinal section 110 comprises a longitudinal end 120 of the corrugated tube 100.
[0044] For example, recording 11 is via a pass 12 with one in the Fig. The coupling point 20 of the connecting part 10 is fluid-connected to the coupling point 1 to 3 indicated. The coupling point 20 is designed, for example, to allow the connection of another connecting part, another corrugated pipe, a fitting, or the like, via a counter-coupling point. For example, the coupling point 20 is arranged on a housing section of the connecting part 10, in particular formed, for example, by integral part.
[0045] For example, the receptacle 11 has a central axis 13, in particular a central axis 13 extending in a insertion direction S. The receptacle 11 has an opening 14, which, for example, has an opening surface arranged transversely, in particular orthogonally, to the central axis 13. For example, the receptacle 11 is bounded by a circumferential wall 15 extending around the central axis 13. For example, the receptacle 11 has a transverse surface 17 arranged transversely, in particular orthogonally, to the central axis 13 in order to bring the end 120 of the corrugated tube 100 into contact with it.
[0046] For example, the connecting part 10 is rotationally symmetrical with respect to the central axis 13, at least in the area of the receptacle 11, for example, in the form of a sleeve or a tube. For example, the connecting part 10 has a uniform outer circumference in the axial direction, at least in the area of the receptacle 11. For example, the connecting part 10 has a constant radius with respect to the central axis 13, at least in the area of the receptacle 11.
[0047] The exemplary connection set 1 further comprises a locking element 50. The locking element 50 serves in particular to lock the corrugated tube 100 against axial detachment from the plug connection with the connection part 10. For example, the locking element 50 comprises a material section 51 for this purpose. For example, the material section 51 is configured in an engagement position E ( Fig. 3) to engage in a wave trough 130 of the corrugated pipe 100 and thus form the barrier.
[0048] In the exemplary connection set 1, the locking element 50 comprises, or consists of, a heat-formable plastic material at least in the area of the material section 51 and is specifically designed to bring the material section 51 into the engagement position E by heat-induced deformation. Heat forming can be carried out by flanging, pressing, or similar forming processes using ultrasound. In this disclosure, heat forming may also be referred to as thermal forming.
[0049] As can be seen particularly from the Fig. As can be seen in Figures 2 to 5, the locking element 50 can be formed on the connecting element 10. For example, the locking element 50 is formed integrally with the connecting element 10. For example, the material section 51 of the locking element 50 is formed on an axial longitudinal section 16 of the circumferential wall 15 of the receptacle 11. For example, the connecting element 10 is a plastic part, which, for example, consists of or comprises a preferably thermoplastic plastic material. For example, the connecting element 10 is an injection-molded part.
[0050] In the exemplary connection set 1, the receptacle 11 is configured to accept the insertion of the length section 110 of the corrugated tube 100. Therefore, the receptacle 11 is designed as an insertion receptacle for the corrugated tube 100. Accordingly, the material section 51, for example, is configured to be formed radially inwards to be brought into the engagement position E. Fig. 3 and Fig. Figure 5 shows, by way of example, the material section 51 after thermal forming, which is in the engagement position E.
[0051] For example, the material section 51 of the locking element 50 is designed to act as a seal against the corrugated tube 100 in the engagement position E. For example, the material section 51 has a contour at its free end section which corresponds to or is adapted to the contour of the corrugated tube 100 in the area of the corrugation trough 130.
[0052] To improve the sealing effect, at least one additional sealing element 60 may preferably be provided. The sealing element 60 is specifically designed to act as a seal against the corrugated tube 100 on one side and against the circumferential wall 15 of the receptacle 11 of the connecting part 10 on the other. For example, the sealing element 60 is arranged axially with respect to the central axis 13 between the transverse surface 17 and the locking element 50. For example, the sealing element 60 surrounds the corrugated tube 100 in the region of a corrugation trough 140, in particular a further corrugation trough.
[0053] Fig. Figures 6 to 8 show a second exemplary embodiment of a connection set 1.1 for corrugated pipes, in particular metallic corrugated pipes. The connection set 1.1 is shown mounted on a corrugated pipe 100.1 and is located in the Fig. 6 to 8 in a final assembly state. The corrugated pipe 100.1 can be the corrugated pipe 100 of the Fig. 1 to 5.
[0054] The exemplary connection set 1.1 differs from the exemplary connection set 1 of the Fig. 1 to 5 differ, among other things, in that a connection part 10.1 and a separate fuse part 50.1 are provided. The exemplary connection set 1.1 differs from the exemplary connection set 1 of the Fig. 1 to 5, among other things, also by the fact that the connecting part 10.1 and the securing part 50.1 each have a flange section 18 or 52 and at least in the area of the flange sections 18, 52 have or consist of a thermally joinable plastic material and are in particular designed to be joined together by thermal joining.
[0055] For example, the plastic material is a thermoplastic material. For example, the connecting part 10.1 is a plastic part which, for example, is made of or incorporates the preferably thermoplastic material. For example, the locking part 50.1 is also a plastic part which, for example, is made of or incorporates the preferably thermoplastic material. For example, the connecting part 10.1 and / or the locking part 50.1 are injection-molded parts.
[0056] The connecting part 10.1 can be in the form of the connecting part 10 and, for example, have the receptacle 11 in order to form a plug connection with the corrugated tube 100.1, as shown in the Fig. As can be seen in Figure 7. The receptacle 11 can, corresponding to the receptacle 11 of the connecting part 10 as described above, have the central axis 13, the circumferential wall 15, and the transverse surface 17. The connecting part 10.1 can also, corresponding to the connecting part 10, have the passage 12 and the coupling point 20. For example, the receptacle 11 of the connecting part 10.1 is designed as an insertion receptacle for the corrugated tube 100.1.
[0057] Preferably, the connecting part 10.1 and the locking part 50.1 are configured to be thermally joined to each other at the flange sections 18, 52 such that the material section 51.1 of the locking part 50.1 is in the engagement position E. The thermal joining can be effected, for example, by welding.
[0058] The locking element 50.1 can be a ring element 53. For example, the ring element 53 has an inner side 54 and an outer side 55 on its circumference, and a front side 56 and a back side 57 in the axial direction ( Fig. 8) In the exemplary connection set 1.1, the flange section 52 of the locking element 50.1 is formed, for example, on the rear side 57 of the ring element 53, and the flange section 18 of the connection element 10.1 is formed on a transverse side 19 extending transversely, in particular orthogonally, to the central axis 13. In the exemplary connection set 1.1, it is further provided, for example, that in the engagement position E, the inner side 54 of the ring element 53 projects radially inwards relative to the inner side of the circumferential wall 15 of the receptacle 11.
[0059] Thermal joining can be carried out by laser welding in the circumferential direction along the circumferential wall 15 of the receptacle 11, as shown in the Fig. 8 is indicated by arrow A. Additionally or alternatively, thermal joining can be carried out by ultrasonic welding in the axial direction with respect to the central axis 13, for example via the front face 56 of the ring element 53, as shown in the Fig. 8 is indicated by arrow B.
[0060] Before thermally joining the ring element 53 to the connecting part 50.1, the ring element 53 must be applied to the corrugated tube 100.1. For this purpose, the ring element 53 can be designed as an open ring, in particular slotted by a slot 58, as for example in the Fig. 6 is indicated. The slot 58 allows the ring element 53 to be widened in a radial direction, thereby facilitating the mounting of the ring element 53 on the corrugated tube 100.1.
[0061] In the exemplary connection set 1.1, at least one sealing element 60, already described above in connection with the exemplary connection set 1, can also be provided to improve the sealing effect. To enable the sealing element 60 to be installed with minimal or no damage, a chamfer 21 is formed, for example, on the inside of the circumferential wall 15 of the receptacle 11.
[0062] Fig. Figures 9 to 11 show a third exemplary embodiment of a connection set 1.2 for corrugated pipes, in particular metallic corrugated pipes. The connection set 1.2 is shown mounted on a corrugated pipe 100.2 and is located in the Fig. 9 to 11 in a final assembly state. The corrugated pipe 100.2 can be used with the corrugated pipe 100. Fig. 1 to 5.
[0063] Exemplary connection set 1.2 is a modification of exemplary connection set 1.1. Exemplary connection set 1.2 has a connection part 10.2 and, separately, a locking part 50.2 with a material section 51.2, which is designed to be brought into the engagement position E. The connection part 10.2 and the locking part 50.2 differ from the connection part 10.1 and the locking part 50.1 of exemplary connection set 1.1 according to the Fig. 6 to 8, among other things, by the fact that the flange section 52 of the locking part 50.2 is formed on the outside 55 of the ring element 53 and the flange section 18 of the connecting part 10.2 is formed on the inside of the circumferential wall 15 of the receptacle 11.
[0064] In the connecting part 10.2, the circumferential wall 15 can be designed as an open ring over a front axial length section 16' or be interrupted by at least one slot 22. This allows a slight widening of the circumferential wall 15 in the area of the front axial length section 16', which facilitates the mounting of the locking element 50.2 on the circumferential wall 15 of the receptacle 11, which is designed as a plug-in receptacle.
[0065] Fig. Figures 12 to 16 show a fourth exemplary embodiment of a connection set 1.3 for corrugated pipes, in particular metallic corrugated pipes. The connection set 1.3 is shown, by way of example, mounted on a corrugated pipe 100.3 and is located in the Fig. 13 and Fig. 15 in an assembly state on the corrugated pipe 100.3 and in the Fig. 14 and Fig. 16 in a final assembly state. The corrugated pipe 100.3 can be the corrugated pipe 100 of the Fig. 1 to 5.
[0066] The exemplary connection set 1.3 is a modification of the exemplary connection set 1. The exemplary connection set 1.3 has a connection part 10.3 and a locking element 50.3 formed, for example, integrally molded onto it. The exemplary connection set 1.3 differs from the exemplary connection set 1, among other things, in that the connection part 10.3 has a receptacle 11' which is designed as a slip-on receptacle for the corrugated tube 100.3. In other words, the receptacle 11' is designed so that the longitudinal section 110 of the corrugated tube 100.3 can be slipped over its circumferential wall 15.
[0067] The exemplary connection set 1.3 differs from the exemplary connection set 1 further in that the receptacle 11' has a material section 51.3 which is designed to be formed radially outwards in order to be brought into the engagement position E. In the engagement position E, the material section 51.3 engages in a corrugation trough 130', which forms a corrugation trough with respect to the inner circumference of the corrugated tube 100.3.
[0068] In the exemplary connection set 1.3, at least one sealing element 60', such as an O-ring, can also be provided to improve the sealing effect. The sealing element 60' is specifically designed to be slid onto the circumferential wall 15 of the receptacle 11'. The sealing element 60' acts as a seal against the circumferential wall 15 and against the corrugated tube 100.3, in particular against a corrugation trough 140' of the corrugated tube 100.3. The corrugation trough 140' is a corrugation trough present with respect to the inner circumference of the corrugated tube 100.3.
[0069] Fig. Figures 17 to 19 show a fifth exemplary embodiment of a connection set 1.4 for corrugated pipes, in particular metallic corrugated pipes. The connection set 1.4 is shown mounted on a corrugated pipe 100.4 and is located in the sections shown in the Fig. 18 in an assembled state and in the Fig. 17 and Fig. 19 in a final assembly state. The corrugated pipe 100.4 can be the corrugated pipe 100 of the Fig. 1 to 5.
[0070] The exemplary connection set 1.4 has a connection part 10.4 and, separately, a locking part 50.4. The connection part 10.4 has the receptacle 11 described above in order to form a plug connection with the longitudinal section 110 of the corrugated tube 100.4. For this purpose, the receptacle 11 has the circumferential wall 15 described above and, in particular, the transverse surface 17 described above.
[0071] The exemplary connection set 1.4 differs from the exemplary connection set 1.1, among other things, in that the circumferential wall 15 of the connection part 10.4 forms a partial circumference 23 of the receptacle 11 over a front axial length section 16'', and the locking part 50.4 has a basic structure which is configured to form a further partial circumference 24 of the receptacle 11 over the front axial length section 16''. For example, the front axial length section 16'' of the circumferential wall 15 of the connection part 10.4 and the locking part 50.4 form matching half-shells 70, 71.
[0072] The locking element 50.4 has a material section 51.4 which performs the function of the material section 51.1 of the locking element 50.1 described above, in particular to form the lock in the engagement position E. For example, the material section 51.4 is formed on the basic structure, in particular by integral part. Additionally, the partial circumference 23 of the circumferential wall 15 of the connecting element 10.4 can also have a circumferentially extending elevation 25, which is designed, for example, to engage in a corrugation trough or the corrugation trough 130 of the corrugated tube 100.4 and thus exert a locking function in the axial direction.
[0073] In the exemplary connection set 1.4, the flange section 18 of the connection part 10.4 can be formed on the transverse side 19, which runs perpendicular to the central axis 13. Additionally or alternatively, the flange section 18 can be formed by an edge section 26 on the outside of the circumferential wall 15. Accordingly, the flange section 52 of the locking part 50.4 can be formed by corresponding wall sections of the basic structure.
[0074] Thermal joining can be achieved by welding, for example by laser welding. For example, welding is carried out at least partially in the circumferential direction along the circumferential wall 15 of the receptacle 11, as shown in the Fig. 19 is indicated by arrow C. Reference symbol list 1 connection set 1.1, 1.2 Connection set 1.3, 1.4 Connection set 10 Connection part 10.1, 10.2 Connection section 10.3, 10.4 Connection part 11, 11' Recording 12 rounds 13 Central axis 14 Opening 15 Perimeter wall 16, 16', 16'' axial length section 17 Cross-sectional area 18 Flange section 19 Cross side 20 coupling point 21 Inlet slope 22 slots 23 Partial scope 24 further sub-scope 25 increase 26 marginal section 50 fuse part 50.1, 50.2 Fuse section 50.3, 50.4 Fuse part 51 Material section 51.1, 51.2 Material section 51.3, 51.4 Material section 52 Flange section 53 Ring element 54 Inside 55 Outside 56 Front 57 reverse 58 slots 60, 60' Sealing element 70, 71 half-shell 100 corrugated pipes 100.1, 100.2 Corrugated pipe 100.3, 100.4 corrugated pipe 110 length section 120 End 130, 130' trough 140, 140' trough A, B, C Arrow E Intervention position S Plug direction
Claims
[1] Connection set (1; 1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4) for preferably metallic corrugated pipes, comprising: a preferably non-metallic connecting part (10; 10.1; 10.2; 10.3; 10.4) with a receptacle (11; 11') for forming a plug connection with a longitudinal section (110) of a preferably metallic corrugated tube (100; 100.1; 100.2; 100.3; 100.4), wherein the receptacle (11; 11') has a central axis (13) extending in a plugging direction (S) and is circumferentially bounded by a circumferential wall (15) extending around the central axis (13), wherein the receptacle (11; 11') further comprises a transverse surface (17) arranged transversely to the central axis (13) for connecting a longitudinal end (120) of the corrugated tube (100; 100.1; 100.2; 100.3; 100.4) to create; a locking element (50; 50.1; 50.2; 50.3) with a material section (51; 51.1; 51.2; 51.3; 51.4) which is arranged to engage in an engagement position (E) in a trough (130; 130') of the corrugated tube (100; 100.1; 100.2; 100.3; 100.4) in order to form a lock against axial release of the corrugated tube (100; 100.1; 100.2; 100.3; 100.4) from the receptacle (11; 11'). [2] Connection set according to claim 1, wherein the material section (51; 51.3) comprises or consists of a heat-malleable plastic material and is arranged to be brought into the engagement position (E) by heat-induced deformation. [3] Connection set according to claim 2, wherein the receptacle (11) is configured to insert the length section (110) of the corrugated tube (100) into it, and wherein the material section (51) is configured to be formed radially inwards in order to be brought into the engagement position (E). [4] Connection set according to claim 2, wherein the receptacle (11') is configured to slip the longitudinal section (110) of the corrugated tube (100.3) over its circumferential wall (15), and wherein the material section (51.3) is configured to be formed radially outwards in order to be brought into the engagement position (E). [5] Connection set according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locking element (50; 50.3) is formed on the connection element (10), in particular is integrally formed thereon. [6] Connection set according to claim 5, wherein the material section (51; 51.3) is formed on an axial longitudinal section (16) of the circumferential wall (15) of the receptacle (11; 11'). [7] Connection set according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the fuse part (50.1; 50.2; 50.4) and the connection part (10.1; 10.2; 10.4) are separate components. [8] Connection set according to one of claims 1 to 4 and 7, wherein the connection part (10.1; 10.2; 10.4) and the locking part (50.1; 50.2; 50.4) each have a flange section (18; 52) and at least in the area of the flange sections (18, 52) have or consist of a thermally joinable plastic material and are arranged to be thermally joined to each other at the flange sections (18, 52). [9] Connection set according to claim 8, wherein the connection part (10.1; 10.2; 10.4) and the locking part (50.1; 50.2; 50.4) are arranged to be thermally joined to each other on the flange sections (18, 52) such that the material section (51.1; 51.2; 51.4) of the locking part (50.1; 50.2; 50.4) is in the engagement position (E). [10] Connection set according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the locking element (50.1; 50.2) is a ring element (53), wherein the ring element (53) has an inner side (54) and an outer side (55) circumferentially and a front side (56) and a back side (57) in the axial direction. [11] Connection set according to claim 10, wherein the flange section (52) of the locking part (50.1) is formed on the rear side (57) of the ring element (53) and the flange section (18) of the connection part (10.1) is formed on a transverse side (19) extending transversely to the central axis (13). [12] Connection set according to claim 11, wherein the receptacle (11) is configured to insert the longitudinal section (110) of the corrugated tube (100.1) into it, and wherein in the engagement position (E) the inner side (54) of the ring element (53) protrudes radially inwards relative to the inner side of the circumferential wall (15) of the receptacle (11). [13] Connection set according to claim 11, wherein the receptacle (11) is configured to slip the longitudinal section (110) of the corrugated tube (110) over its circumferential wall (15), and wherein in the engagement position (E) the outer side (55) of the ring element (53) protrudes radially outwards relative to the outer side of the circumferential wall (15) of the receptacle (11). [14] Connection set according to claim 10, wherein the flange section (52) of the locking part (50.2) is formed on the outside (55) of the ring element (53) and the flange section (18) of the connection part (10.2) is formed on the inside of the circumferential wall (15) of the receptacle (11), and wherein in the engagement position (E) the inside (54) of the ring element (53) protrudes radially inwards relative to the inside of the circumferential wall (15) of the receptacle (11). [15] Connection set according to claim 10, wherein the flange section (52) of the locking part (50.2) is formed on the inside (54) of the ring element (53) and the flange section (18) of the connection part (10.2) is formed on the outside of the circumferential wall (15) of the receptacle (11), and wherein in the engagement position (E) the outside (55) of the ring element (53) protrudes radially outwards relative to the outside of the circumferential wall (15) of the receptacle (11). [16] Connection set according to one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the ring element (53) is designed as an open ring, in particular is slotted. [17] Connection set according to one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the circumferential wall (15) of the connection part (10.2) is formed as an open ring, in particular slotted, at least over a front axial length section (16'). [18] Connection set according to one of claims 7 to 9, wherein the circumferential wall (15) of the connection part (10.4) forms a partial circumference (23) of the receptacle (11) over a front axial length section (16'') and the locking part (50.4) has a basic structure comprising the material section (51.4) which is arranged to form a further partial circumference (24) of the receptacle (11) over the front axial length section (16''). [19] Connection set according to claim 18, wherein the front axial length section (16'') of the circumferential wall (15) of the connection part (10.4) and the basic structure of the locking part (50.4) form matching half-shells (70, 71). [20] Connection set according to claim 18 or 19, wherein the partial circumference (23) of the circumferential wall (15) of the connection part (10.4) has a circumferentially extending elevation (25) which is designed to engage in a corrugation trough (130) of the corrugated tube (100.4). [21] Connection set according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the material section (51) of the locking part (50; 50.1; 50.2; 50.3; 50.4) is arranged to act in the engagement position (E) against the corrugated tube (100; 100.1; 100.2; 100.3; 100.4). [22] Connection set according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a sealing element (60) which is arranged to act as a seal against the corrugated tube (100; 100.1; 100.2; 100.3; 100.4) on the one hand and against the circumferential wall (15) of the receptacle (11) of the connection part (10; 10.1; 10.2; 10.3; 10.4) on the other hand. [23] Connection set according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection part (10; 10.1; 10.2; 10.3; 10.4) comprises or consists of a preferably thermoplastic plastic material. [24] Connection set according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection part (10; 10.1; 10.2; 10.3; 10.4) is an injection molded part. [25] Connection set according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the safety element (50; 50.1; 50.2; 50.3; 50.4) comprises or consists of a preferably thermoplastic plastic material. [26] Connection set according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection part (10; 10.1; 10.2; 10.3; 10.4) and the safety part (50; 50.1; 50.2; 50.3; 50.4) are made of or comprise the same plastic material. [27] Connection arrangement with a corrugated tube (100; 100.1; 100.2; 100.3; 100.4) on which at least at one end (120) of the corrugated tube a connection set (1; 1.1; 1.2; 1.3; 1.4) according to one of the preceding claims is mounted. [28] Connection arrangement according to claim 27, wherein the connection set (1; 1.3) is designed according to one of claims 2 to 6 and the material section (51) of the locking part (50; 50.3) is brought into engagement with a corrugation trough (130; 130') of the corrugated tube (100; 100.3) by a forming effect under heat. [29] Connection arrangement according to claim 27, wherein the connection set (1.1; 1.2; 1.4) is configured according to claims 7 to 20 and the connection part (10.1; 10.2; 10.4) and the locking part (50.1; 50.2; 50.4) are thermally joined to each other at the flange sections (18; 52) such that the material section (51) of the locking part (50.1; 50.2; 50.4) engages in a corrugation trough (130) of the corrugated tube (100.1; 100.2; 100.3). [30] Method for mounting a connection set (1; 1.3) according to one of claims 2 to 6 to a corrugated tube (100; 100.3), comprising the steps: i) Making a plug connection with one end (120) of the corrugated tube (100; 100.3) and the receptacle (11; 11') of the connector part (10; 10.3) of the connector set (1; 1.3); ii) Transferring the material section (51) of the locking part (50; 50.3) from an initial position to a locking position by forming under heat, wherein in the initial position the corrugated tube (100; 100.3) is able to be joined with the connecting part (10; 10.3) and in the locking position the material section (51; 51.3) engages in a corrugation trough (130; 130') of the corrugated tube (100; 100.3). [31] Method for assembling a connection set according to claims 7 to 20, comprising the steps: i) Making a plug connection with one end (120) of the corrugated tube (100.1; 100.2; 100.4) and the receptacle (11) of the connection part (10.1; 10.2; 10.4) of the connection set (1.1; 1.2; 1.4); ii) Connecting the locking part (50.1; 50.2; 50.4) to the connecting part (10.1; 10.2; 10.4) by thermal joining such that the material section (51.1; 51.2; 51.4) of the locking part (50.1; 50.2; 50.4) is engaged in a corrugation trough (130) opposite the corrugated tube (100.1; 100.2; 100.4).