A pipe connector

Abstract

A pipe connector (200) for connecting a first pipe to a second pipe, the pipe connector comprising: a first connector (210) configured to be coupled to a first pipe; a second connector (220) configured to be coupled to a second pipe, the second connector (220) configured to receive part of the first connector (210); and a latching mechanism comprising: a first locking member (640); and a second locking member (650), the second locking member (650) comprising a plurality of teeth (530) which are configured to allow movement of the first locking member (640) in a first direction and configured to resist movement of the first locking member (640) in a second direction, the second direction being different to the first direction, wherein one of the first connector (210) or the second connector (220) is provided with the first locking member (640) and the other of the first connector (210) and the second connector (220) is provided with the second locking member (650), such that when the first connector (210) is at least partly received in the second connector (220) the latching mechanism allows the first and second connectors (210, 220) to move toward one another in the first direction and restricts the first and second connectors (210, 220) from moving apart from one another in the second direction to lock the first connector (210) to the second connector (220).

Description

[0001] A PIPE CONNECTOR

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a pipe connector. The present invention more particularly relates to a pipe connector to connect two pipes together during construction to ensure a seal is formed between the pipes.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Conventional building construction techniques typically require construction steps to be carried out in order, with each step needing to be completed before the next can begin. It is known to use modular mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems (also known as riser systems) in buildings to supply one or more services, such as water or electricity, to each storey or area of a building. A MEP system comprises at least one of a mechanical system, electrical system or plumbing system. A modular MEP system is formed from a plurality of modular MEP systems that are connected together. In one example, a MEP system is a riser system with the MEP system modules being stacked vertically on top of one another.

[0006] Modular MEP systems may also be formed from a plurality of MEP system modules that are connected together horizontally. By connecting MEP systems horizontally, services can be supplied horizontally across a storey of a building.

[0007] MEP systems are usually manufactured in standard sizes to accommodate different service provisions. However, some MEP systems are sized according to a specification and are therefore not a standard size. Benefits of modular MEP systems over conventional systems include, but are not limited to, reducing installation time, simplifying the design process, reducing long-term performance risks, reducing material wastage, improving site health and safety, and reducing build programme time.

[0008] A MEP system module is typically pre-installed with a plurality of services into a structural frame representing one storey (circa 3m) of a building. The MEP system module typically houses a plurality of modular components, including for example ductwork, pipes, conduits, and cables to provide the services. The MEP system modules are then stacked during construction of the building and the services are connected to create a complete service unit that can supply the services to each storey of the building. The MEP system modules are usually fabricated off-site and then tested, delivered, and erected within a building riser shaft. Advantageously, modular MEP systems are designed to work and perform over the lifetime of the building.

[0009] While a modular MEP system provides benefits over conventional building techniques, each MEP system module must be installed very carefully to ensure that the services are continuous along the complete service unit. Problems can occur if there is thermal movement that results in strains on the service pipes.

[0010] Seismic activity and building creep (the natural movement of a building caused by settlement) are two further elements to consider when installing a conventional modular MEP system. It is critical to correct for thermal expansion and contraction of each component within the MEP system modules to guarantee that the components stay linked. It is also crucial to consider the pressure of the fluid within the pipes, as well as fluctuations in pressure throughout the modular MEP system, which may cause the fluid pipes to shift and become separated. Accommodating for these factors typically increases the complexity of the installation process for a conventional modular MEP system.

[0011] Furthermore, when installing a conventional modular MEP system, once one MEP system module is aligned with an adjacent MEP system module, a secondary task must be performed manually to connect the service pipes of the two MEP system modules to one another with high precision. For example, a secondary task must be performed by a skilled technician to screw connectors on pipes in two MEP system modules together. Secondary tasks of this kind are time consuming and further increase the complexity of the installation process.

[0012] There is a need for an improved pipe connector which alleviates at least some of the problems described herein.

[0013] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention provides a pipe connector for connecting a first pipe to a second pipe as claimed in claim 1 and a modular MEP system as claimed in claim 15. The present invention also provides preferred embodiments as claimed in the dependent claims.

[0015] Some examples of this disclosure ensure that no mechanical fixings are required between the pipes of each MEP system module, removing the need for costly site labour by providing an easier and quicker installation process. In addition, some examples of the disclosure provide a tolerance between pipes, such that the pipes can be connected to each other even if the pipes are not located in their exact position.

[0016] Some examples of this disclosure remove the need for a manual secondary task to be performed during the installation process. Removing the need for a manual secondary task increases the speed in which MEP systems can be installed and reduces the reliance on skilled labour on site.

[0017] Modular MEP systems of some examples of this disclosure have a reduced environmental impact compared to conventional construction systems. This is achieved by modular MEP systems of some examples of this disclosure reducing the amount of disruption, noise, waste and construction labour compared with conventional systems. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0018] In orderthatthe present disclosure may be more readily understood, preferable embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1 is a perspective view of modular MEP system;

[0020] Figure 2 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a pipe connector of one example of this disclosure;

[0021] Figure 3 is a diagrammatic side view of the pipe connector of one example of this disclosure;

[0022] Figure 4 is a diagrammatic side view of a first connector of one example of this disclosure;

[0023] Figure 5 is a diagrammatic side view of a second connector of one example of this disclosure;

[0024] Figure 6 is a diagrammatic sectional view of the pipe connector along the line A-A of Figure 3, showing a split locking ring in an open configuration;

[0025] Figure 7 is a close up view of part of the pipe connector shown in Figure 6;

[0026] Figure 8 is a diagrammatic sectional view of the pipe connector along the line A-A of Figure 3, showing a split locking ring in an open configuration;

[0027] Figure 9 is a diagrammatic plan view of the pipe connector of one example of this disclosure;

[0028] Figure 10 is a diagrammatic underneath view of the pipe connector of one example of this disclosure; Figure 11 is a diagrammatic side view of the pipe connector, shown at a minimum separation distance, of one example of this disclosure;

[0029] Figure 12 is a diagrammatic sectional view of the pipe connector along the line B-B of Figure 11 ;

[0030] Figure 13 is a diagrammatic side view of the pipe connector, shown at a maximum separation distance, of one example of this disclosure;

[0031] Figure 14 is a diagrammatic sectional view of the pipe connector along the line C-C of Figure 11 ; and

[0032] Figure 15 is a diagrammatic exploded view of the pipe connector of one example of this disclosure.

[0033] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0034] The following disclosure refers to a riser system as one example of an MEP system and a riser module as one example of a MEP system module. However, the terms “riser module” and “MEP system module” are interchangeable and the terms “riser system” and “MEP system” are interchangeable in the context of this disclosure. The pipe connector of examples of this disclosure is for use with pipes in any type of riser module or MEP system module that are configured to be connected together horizontally, vertically or indeed at any other angle.

[0035] Figure 1 shows an example riser module 100 of a modular riser system. The riser module 100 is configured to be stacked vertically with other riser modules within a multi-storey building. Each riser module 100 is sized to be the same height as a floor in the multi-storey building and comprise a male end 110 and a female end 120, so that the riser modules 100 are coupled to each other. The riser module 100 comprises a plurality of pipes 130, which can transport liquids and gases and / or house cables, such as electrical cables. The riser module 100 comprises a frame 140 which provides structural support for the plurality of pipes 130 and other components housed within the riser module 100. In this example, the frame 140 is formed of a metallic material, such as steel. In other examples, the frame 140 is of plastic, timber, and / or a composite material.

[0036] Referring now to Figures 2 to 10, a pipe connector 200 of one example of this disclosure is for connecting two pipes, such as two pipes in two riser modules of the type shown in Figure 1 . The pipe connector 200 comprises a first connector 210 and a second connector 220. In one example, the first connector 210 is a male connector and the second connector 220 is a female connector, or vice versa. The first connector 210 is configured to be connected to a first pipe (not shown) and the second connector 220 is configured to be connected to a second pipe (not shown). The configuration of the pipe connector 200 is explained in more detail below.

[0037] In this example, the pipe connector 200 is used to connect a first pipe of a first riser module to a second pipe of a second riser module. In some examples, the pipe connector 200 is sized to couple to pipes of varying diameters. As known in the art, pipes are sized depending on the medium transported within the pipe. Particularly, the pipe connector 200 of one example of this disclosure is dimensioned to couple two water pipes of two riser modules.

[0038] As shown in Figure 3, the first connector 310 of one example of this disclosure is coupled to an outer sleeve 330. Similarly, the second connector 320 of another example of this disclosure is coupled to the outer sleeve 330. The first connector 310, or the second connector 320, and the outer sleeve 330 are connected mechanically. For example, the first connector 310, or the second connector 320, and the outer sleeve 330 are coupled together via a thread, which is explained in more detail below. In other examples, the first connector 310, or the second connector 320, and the outer sleeve 330 are adhesively coupled. In other examples, the first connector 310 or the second connector 320 and the outer sleeve 330 are formed together as a single piece.

[0039] The outer sleeve 330 comprises a series of flat surfaces 340 arranged around the perimeter of the outer sleeve 330. As shown in Figure 3, the outer sleeve 330 comprises eight flat surfaces 340, but in other examples the outer sleeve 330 comprises at least two flat surfaces 340. The flat surfaces 340 enable the outer sleeve 330 to be coupled to either the first connector 310 or the second connector 320. The length of the outer sleeve 330 is substantially similar to the length of the first connector 310, orthe second connector 320. The outer sleeve 330 in one example of this disclosure is coupled to the first connector 310 by an external thread on the first connector 310 and an internal thread on the outer sleeve 330. The external thread is configured to engage the inner thread such that the first connector 310 and the outer sleeve 330 are coupled together.

[0040] Referring now to Figure 4, the first connector 410 comprises a ridge 420 and a coupling section 430 (threads not shown). As described above, the coupling section 430 comprises a mechanical and / or adhesive coupling mechanism for coupling the first connector 410 to the outer sleeve 230, 330. Further, the coupling section 430 has a first diameter. Advantageously, the ridge 420 is configured to restrict movement of the first connector 410 towards the second connector 220, 320 once the first connector 410 and second connector 220, 320 are connected.

[0041] The first connector 410, in one example of this disclosure, comprises an inner sleeve 440. The inner sleeve 440 is configured to be inserted at least partly into the second connector 220, 320. In another example of this disclosure, the second connector 220, 320 comprises an inner sleeve 440 and is configured to be inserted at least partly into the first connector 410.

[0042] The inner sleeve 440 has a diameter which is smaller or substantially smaller than the diameter of the coupling section 430. The inner sleeve 440 comprises a sealing ring 450, which is configured to create a seal between the first connector 410 and the second connector 220, 320 to prevent fluid, air or gas, within the first and second pipe flowing out between the first connector 410 and the second connector 220, 320. The inner sleeve 440 in some examples of this disclosure comprises a plurality of sealing rings 450. In one example of this disclosure, the sealing 450 ring comprises a compressible polymer material that is resiliency deformable.

[0043] Referring now to Figure 5, in one example of this disclosure the second connector 520 comprises a plurality of teeth 530 that are arranged around a second section 540 of the second connector 520. In this example, each of the plurality of teeth 530 projects outwardly from the second connector 520 to provide an angled surface and a straight edge such that the plurality of teeth 530 form a saw tooth arrangement along the second section 540. The teeth of the plurality of teeth 530 are sized to allow for the minimum thermal expansion without engaging the next tooth, thereby reducing the risk of the pipe connector being affected by fluctuations in temperature.

[0044] In one example of this disclosure, the second section 540 has a length of 50mm along a longitudinal direction of the first connector 210, 310, 410, or the second connector 520. In other examples of this disclosure, the length of the second section 540 is 10mm to 100mm.

[0045] In some examples of this disclosure, the second connector 520 has a reduced diameter portion 550. This reduced diameter portion 550 reduces the amount of material needed for the second connector 520 while still providing sufficient structural rigidity to the second connector 520. This reduction in material helps minimise the weight and reduces the environmental impact of the pipe connector 200.

[0046] Referring now to Figures 6 to 8, the pipe connector 600 comprises a latching mechanism for connecting the first connector 610 and second connectors 620 together. The latching mechanism comprises a first locking member 640 and a second locking member 650. One of the first connector 610 or the second connector 620 is provided with the first locking member 640 and the other of the first connector 610 and the second connector 620 is provided with the second locking member 650. In one example of this disclosure, the outer sleeve 630 comprises the first locking member 640 and the second connector 620 comprises the second locking member 650. The outer sleeve 630 comprises an outer sleeve groove 660 which defines a recess for the first locking member 640 to be positioned. In another example of this disclosure, the outer sleeve 630 comprises the second locking member 650 and the second connector 620 comprises the first locking member 640.

[0047] In this example, the outer sleeve groove 660 has angled sides that correspond with angled sides of the first locking member 640. The second locking member 650 comprises a plurality of teeth 530 that are arranged in parallel along a section of the first connector 610 or the second connector 620. In this example, the plurality of teeth are configured to allow movement of the first locking member 640 in a first direction and configured to resist movement of the first locking member 640 in a second direction, with the first direction being different to the second direction.

[0048] In another example of this disclosure, the plurality of teeth 530 have any suitable profile to allow movement of the first locking member 640 in a first direction and configured to resist movement of the first locking member 640 in a second direction. The second direction being different to the first direction. One of the first connector 610 or the second connector 620 is provided with the first locking member 640 and the other of the first connector 610 and the second connector 620 is provided with the second locking member 650.

[0049] When the first connector 610 is at least partly received in the second connector 620 the latching mechanism allows the first connector 610 and second connector 620 to move toward one another in the first direction and restricts the first connector 610 and second connector 620 from moving apart from one another in the second direction to lock the first connector 610 to the second connector 620.

[0050] In examples of this disclosure, the first locking member 640 is a split locking ring, and the second locking member 650 is a plurality of teeth, or vice versa. The split locking ring comprises a plurality of locking ring teeth that are configured to engage the plurality of teeth. The second locking member 650 is configured to allow movement of the first locking member 640 in the first direction and to resist movement of the first locking member 640 in the second direction.

[0051] When the first connector 610 is at least partly received in the second connector 620 the latching mechanism allows the first connector 610 and second connector 620 to move toward one another in the first direction. As the first connector 610 and second connector 620 move toward one another in the first direction, the plurality of teeth 530 on the second locking member 650 exert a biasing force on the locking ring teeth that opens the split in the split locking ring. The split locking ring expands into the outer sleeve groove 660, as shown in Figures 6 and 7.

[0052] As the first connector 610 and second connector 620 continue to move toward one another in the first direction, the locking ring teeth mate or mesh with the plurality of teeth 530 on the second locking member 650, as shown in Figure 8. In this configuration, the latching mechanism restricts the first connector 610 and second connector 620 from moving apart from one another in the second direction to lock the first connector 610 to the second connector 620. In this example, the angled sides of the outer sleeve groove 660 bias the plurality of teeth of the second locking member 650 into engagement with the plurality of locking ring teeth to ensure that the first locking member 640 remains in position when the first connector 610 and the second connector 620 are connected.

[0053] In one example of this disclosure, the first connector 610 is irreversibly locked to the second connector 620 and cannot be released or adjusted. This ensures that the pipe connector 600 cannot be tampered with after installation.

[0054] The first connector 610 comprises a chamber 670 to receive a liquid, gas, or cables between the first connector 610 and the second connector 620. The second connector 620 comprises a rim 680 configured to restrict the movement of the first connector 610 in a first direction. The rim 680 defines a rim opening 690 which has substantially the same cross-sectional area as the chamber 670.

[0055] Referring now to Figures 9 and 10, the first connector 710 comprises a first pipe opening 730 configured to receive the first pipe. Similarly, the second connector 810 comprises a second pipe opening 830 configured to receive the second pipe. The first pipe opening 730 and second pipe opening 830 are sized to accommodate the first and second pipe, respectively.

[0056] Figures 11 and 12 illustrate the minimum engagement distance between the first connector 910, 1010 and the second connector 920, 1020. Movement of the first connector 910, 1010 in the first direction is restricted by the rim 1040 and the movement of the second connector is restricted by the ridge 1050. This defines the minimum separation between the first connector 910, 1010 and the second connector 920, 1020. The first locking member 1060 engages the furthermost teeth of the plurality of teeth of the second locking member 1070. At least one tooth of the plurality of teeth requires to be engaged by the first locking member 1060 such the first connector 910, 1010 and second connector 920, 1020 are locked together.

[0057] Figures 13 and 14 show the maximum engagement distance between the first connector 1110, 1210 and the second connector 1120, 1220. The first locking member 1240 engages the innermost plurality of teeth of the second locking member 1250. The maximum engagement distance between the first connector 1110, 1210 and the second connector 1120, 1220 is defined by the length of the second section 540 comprising the plurality of teeth 530. In one example of this disclosure, the second section 540 has a length of 50mm which ensures that the maximum engagement distance between the first connector 1110, 1210 and the second connector 1120, 1220 is 50mm. However, in other examples of this disclosure, the second section 540 has a length of 10mm to 100mm, which ensures that the maximum engagement distance of 10mm to 100mm.

[0058] The first connector 1110, 1210 and second connector 1120, 1220 have an anchor point on the pipework just above and below their locations to minimize the thermal expansion experience on the pipes. The first connector 1110, 1210 and second connector 1120, 1220 are locked in place at a mid-point of the second section 540. In one example of this disclosure, when the length of the second section 540 comprising the plurality of teeth is 50mm, the first connector 1110, 1210 and the second connector 1120, 1220 are designed to be connected with an engagement distance of 25mm. This provides a ±25mm tolerance between the first connector 1110, 1210 and the second connector 1120, 1220. The tolerance allows the first connector 1110, 1210 to be connected to the second connector 1120, 1220 even if pipes that are coupled to the first and second connectors 1110, 1210, 1120, 1220 are displaced relative to one another, for instance as a result of seismic activity or the pipes expanding or contracting due to fluctuations in temperature. The tolerance therefore ensures that the pipes remain connected at all times.

[0059] Figure 15 shows an exploded view of the pipe connector 1300 of one example of this disclosure. In this example, the split locking ring 1320 has a split 1330 that enables the diameter of the split locking ring to be reduced or increased when a force is applied.

[0060] The split locking ring 1320 has a first configuration in which the split locking ring 1320 is undeformed and has an undeformed diameter. The split locking ring 1320 has a second configuration in which the split locking ring 1320 is deformed causing the split 1330 to be enlarged and the split locking ring 1320 has a deformed diameter. The deformed diameter of split locking ring 1320 allows the plurality of locking ring teeth 1340 to pass over the plurality of teeth 1350, as shown in Figures 6 and 7. The deformed diameter is either larger or smaller than the undeformed diameter.

[0061] When the plurality of locking ring teeth 1340 and the plurality of teeth 1350 are engaged, as shown in Figure 8, the split locking ring 1320 is at the undeformed diameter.

[0062] In other examples, when the plurality of locking ring teeth 1340 and the plurality of teeth 1350 are engaged, the split locking ring 1320 has a deformed diameter such that the plurality of locking ring teeth 1340 are biased against the plurality of teeth 1350 to retain the locking ring teeth 1340 in the engaged position, as shown in Figure 8.

[0063] When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps, or components.

[0064] The invention may also broadly consist in the parts, elements, steps, examples and / or features referred to or indicated in the specification individually or collectively in any and all combinations of two or more said parts, elements, steps, examples and / or features. In particular, one or more features in any of the embodiments described herein may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment(s) described herein.

[0065] Protection may be sought for any features disclosed in any one or more published documents referenced herein in combination with the present disclosure. Although certain example embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these embodiments. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and / or to encompass equivalents.

[0066] REPRESENTATIVE FEATURES

[0067] Representative features are set out in the following clauses, which stand alone or may be combined, in any combination, with one or more features disclosed in the text and / or drawings of the specification.

[0068] 1 . A pipe connector for connecting a first pipe to a second pipe, the pipe connector comprising: a first connector configured to be coupled to a first pipe; a second connector configured to be coupled to a second pipe, the second connector configured to receive part of the first connector; and a latching mechanism comprising: a first locking member; and a second locking member, the second locking member comprising a plurality of teeth which are configured to allow movement of the first locking member in a first direction and configured to resist movement of the first locking member in a second direction, the second direction being different to the first direction, wherein one of the first connector or the second connector is provided with the first locking member and the other of the first connector and the second connector is provided with the second locking member, such that when the first connector is at least partly received in the second connector the latching mechanism allows the first and second connectors to move toward one another in the first direction and restricts the first and second connectors from moving apart from one another in the second direction to lock the first connector to the second connector.

[0069] 2. The pipe connector of clause 1 , wherein the plurality of teeth are arranged in parallel along a section of the first connector or second connector that is provided with the second locking member, the plurality of teeth being configured to allow movement of the first locking member along the section in the first direction and configured to resist movement of the first locking member in the second direction.

[0070] 3. The pipe connector of clause 2, wherein the section has a length of 10mm to 100mm along a longitudinal direction of the first connector or the second connector that is provided with the second locking member.

[0071] 4. The pipe connector of clause 3, wherein the section has a length of 50mm along a longitudinal direction of the first connector or the second connector that is provided with the second locking member.

[0072] 5. The pipe connector of any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first locking member is a split locking ring. 6. The pipe connector of clause 5 as dependent on clause 2, wherein the split locking ring comprises a plurality of locking ring teeth that are configured to engage the plurality of teeth.

[0073] 7. The pipe connector of any one of clauses 2 to 6, wherein the first connector is coupled to an outer sleeve that comprises the first locking member, and wherein the second connector comprises the plurality of teeth.

[0074] 8. The pipe connector of clause 7, wherein the first connector comprises an inner sleeve that is configured to be inserted into an internal opening of the second connector.

[0075] 9. The pipe connector of clause 8, wherein the inner sleeve comprises a resiliently deformable seal that is positioned between part of the first connector and part of the second connector when the first connector is at least partly received in the second connector, the resiliently deformable seal being configured to minimise or prevent a fluid, air or gas flowing out from the between the first connector and the second connector.

[0076] 10. The pipe connector of clause 8 or clause 9, wherein the internal opening comprises a rim that is configured to block movement of the first connector in the first direction.

[0077] 11 . The pipe connector of any one of clauses 8 to 10, wherein the first connector comprises a ridge that is configured to restrict movement of the first connector towards the second connector.

[0078] 12. The pipe connector of clause 7, wherein the first connector comprises an external thread and the outer sleeve comprises an internal thread, the external thread being configured to engage the internal thread.

[0079] 13. The pipe connector of any one of clauses 2 to 6, wherein the second connector is coupled to an outer sleeve that comprises the first locking member, and wherein the first connector comprises the plurality of teeth.

[0080] 14. The pipe connector of clause 13, wherein the second connector comprises an external thread and the outer sleeve comprises an internal thread, the external thread being configured to engage the internal thread.

[0081] 15. A modular MEP system comprising: a first MEP system module comprising a first pipe; a second MEP system module comprising a second pipe; a pipe connector according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the first connector is coupled to the first pipe and the second connector is coupled to the second pipe.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A pipe connector for connecting a first pipe to a second pipe, the pipe connector comprising: a first connector configured to be coupled to a first pipe; a second connector configured to be coupled to a second pipe, the second connector configured to receive part of the first connector; and a latching mechanism comprising: a first locking member; and a second locking member, the second locking member comprising a plurality of teeth which are configured to allow movement of the first locking member in a first direction and configured to resist movement of the first locking member in a second direction, the second direction being different to the first direction, wherein one of the first connector orthe second connector is provided with the first locking member and the other of the first connector and the second connector is provided with the second locking member, such that when the first connector is at least partly received in the second connector the latching mechanism allows the first and second connectors to move toward one another in the first direction and restricts the first and second connectors from moving apart from one another in the second direction to lock the first connector to the second connector.

2. The pipe connector of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of teeth are arranged in parallel along a section of the first connector or second connector that is provided with the second locking member, the plurality of teeth being configured to allow movement of the first locking member along the section in the first direction and configured to resist movement of the first locking member in the second direction.

3. The pipe connector of claim 2, wherein the section has a length of 10mm to 100mm along a longitudinal direction of the first connector or the second connector that is provided with the second locking member.

4. The pipe connector of claim 3, wherein the section has a length of 50mm along a longitudinal direction of the first connector or the second connector that is provided with the second locking member.

5. The pipe connector of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first locking member is a split locking ring.

6. The pipe connector of claim 5 as dependent on claim 2, wherein the split locking ring comprises a plurality of locking ring teeth that are configured to engage the plurality of teeth.

7. The pipe connector of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the first connector is coupled to an outer sleeve that comprises the first locking member, and wherein the second connector comprises the plurality of teeth.

8. The pipe connector of claim 7, wherein the first connector comprises an inner sleeve that is configured to be inserted into an internal opening of the second connector.

9. The pipe connector of claim 8, wherein the inner sleeve comprises a resiliently deformable seal that is positioned between part of the first connector and part of the second connector when the first connector is at least partly received in the second connector, the resiliently deformable seal being configured to minimise or prevent a fluid, air or gas flowing out from the between the first connector and the second connector.

10. The pipe connector of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the internal opening comprises a rim that is configured to block movement of the first connector in the first direction.

11. The pipe connector of any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the first connector comprises a ridge that is configured to restrict movement of the first connector towards the second connector.

12. The pipe connector of claim 7, wherein the first connector comprises an external thread and the outer sleeve comprises an internal thread, the external thread being configured to engage the internal thread.

13. The pipe connector of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the second connector is coupled to an outer sleeve that comprises the first locking member, and wherein the first connector comprises the plurality of teeth.

14. The pipe connector of claim 13, wherein the second connector comprises an external thread and the outer sleeve comprises an internal thread, the external thread being configured to engage the internal thread.

15. A modular MEP system comprising: a first MEP system module comprising a first pipe; a second MEP system module comprising a second pipe; a pipe connector according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector is coupled to the first pipe and the second connector is coupled to the second pipe.

Images