MEASURING TOOL

Abstract

The invention relates to a measuring tool (1), configured to measure relative positioning defects between a first flange (7) of a first pipe (3) and a second flange (9) of a second pipe (5) distant from the first flange (7), comprising: - a body (13) comprising a measuring support (19), an axial reference stop (21) and a radial reference stop (23) against the first flange (7), - a first ruler (15) mounted radially sliding on the body (13), - a second ruler (17) mounted axially sliding on the first ruler (15), comprising a targeting element and a radial measuring stop (48) against the second flange (9), the targeting element being configured to allow a user to mark a measuring point on the measuring support (19). The invention also relates to a corresponding measuring method. Figure for abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: MEASURING TOOL Technical field

[0001] The present application relates to a tool for measuring relative positioning defects between two pipes, more precisely a tool for measuring relative positioning defects between a first flange of a first pipe and a second flange of a second pipe distant from the first flange, as well as a method for measuring relative positioning defects between a first flange of a first pipe and a second flange of a second pipe distant from the first flange, using such a measuring tool. The invention applies in particular to positioning defects configured to be compensated for by a compensating sleeve, preferably made of elastomer. STATE OF THE ART

[0002] During the operation of a nuclear power plant, maintenance of hydraulic circuits important for safety is one of the activities with high safety stakes, for which compliance with the timing is essential. On these systems, elastomer compensating sleeves (EMS) play an important role in ensuring the sealing of the junctions between two pipes. These devices ensure the absorption of dynamic and static stresses. Excessive stresses contribute to their fatigue as well as their wear and can lead to their rupture. On a nuclear site, vibrations as well as thermomechanical stresses due to the passage of fluid at different temperatures are the cause of these dynamic stresses.

[0003] The main functions of an MCE are: - to protect the hydraulic circuit, by limiting mechanical forces in the pipes, linked to dimensional variations during operation (thermal expansion, pressure / background effect, earthquake), - to absorb vibrations, and to a lesser extent to reduce noise, and - to reduce the effect of water hammer.

[0004] The stresses are absorbed by a specific bellows part made of flexible elastomer. MCE manufacturers define maximum limitations to the defects taken up by an MCE. These defects are clearly identified by the manufacturers and compliance with the tolerances is imperative in nuclear regulations. These defects are mainly: axial separation also called extension / compression, parallelism also called angular displacement, lateral displacement also called concentricity defect.

[0005] For example, the measurement values ​​taken into consideration are the values maximum or most penalizing measured, and are therefore increased with regard to the reality of the constraints undergone by the MCE. Indeed, the maximum value of axial separation is not in reality necessarily located at the same point as the maximum value of lateral displacement.

[0006] The conformity of an assembly requires compliance with the aforementioned tolerances. However, there is no device for measuring such defects in a reliable and simple manner. Statement of the invention

[0007] An aim of the present application is to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks, by proposing a measuring tool making it possible to measure the relative positioning defects between a first flange of a first pipe and a second flange of a second pipe distant from the first flange, at the point of installation of an ECM, and this in a simple, precise and rapid manner.

[0008] To this end, the invention proposes, according to a first aspect, a measuring tool configured to measure relative positioning defects between a first flange of a first pipe and a second flange of a second pipe distant from the first flange, the first flange extending radially around a reference axis X, the measuring tool comprising: - a body comprising a measuring support, an axial reference stop, configured to be in axial abutment against the first flange, and a radial reference stop, configured to be in radial abutment against the first flange, - a first strip mounted radially sliding on the body so that a first sliding connection configured to be orthogonal to the reference axis X connects the body and the first strip, - a second strip mounted axially sliding on the first strip so that a second sliding connection configured to be parallel to the reference axis X connects the first strip and the second strip, the second strip comprising a targeting element and a radial measuring stop configured to be in radial abutment against the second flange, the targeting element being configured to allow a user to mark a measuring point on the measuring support.

[0009] Thus, thanks to such a measuring tool, it is simple to measure the relative positioning defects between the first flange and the second flange. The axial spacing defect along the reference axis X, the lateral displacement defect along a Y axis orthogonal to the reference axis X and the parallelism defect can be determined by marking measuring points on the measuring support. A measuring tool is therefore available for measuring the relative positioning defects between a first flange of a first pipe and a second flange of a second pipe distant from the first flange, in a simple, precise and rapid manner. Such a tool also saves time in carrying out measurements, does not require any special skills, is particularly precise, allows the reporting of real and not maximum defects, allows the determination of three relative positioning defects from the measurement points taken, allows repeatability of measurements with different users, and standardizes the way in which measurements are taken. Another advantage is also not to send a compliant compensation sleeve to the scrap heap because of a measurement method which does not take into account the real relative positioning defects.

[0010] According to a second aspect, the invention proposes a method for measuring relative positioning defects between a first flange of a first pipe and a second flange of a second pipe distant from the first flange, the method comprising the following successive steps: - mounting the measuring tool according to the first aspect on the first flange so that the reference axial stop is in axial abutment against the first flange and the reference radial stop is in radial abutment against the first flange, - slide the first ruler relative to the body and the second ruler relative to the first ruler until the radial measuring stop is in contact with the second flange, then hold the second ruler in position, - mark a measuring point using a measuring marker, the measuring point representing a relative positioning error between the first flange and the second flange, - move the measuring tool angularly around the reference axis X with a predetermined angle, - repeat the previous steps at least twice, preferably at least three times, until the measuring tool has covered an angular range of at least 90°, preferably at least 180°.

[0011] Thus, thanks to such a measuring method, it is simple to measure the relative positioning defects between the first flange and the second flange. The axial spacing defect along the reference axis X, the lateral displacement defect along a Y axis orthogonal to the reference axis X and the parallelism defect can be determined by marking measuring points on the measuring support. A measuring method is therefore provided for measuring the relative positioning defects between a first flange of a first pipe and a second flange of a second pipe distant from the first flange, simply and quickly.

[0012] The invention is advantageously and optionally supplemented by the following characteristics, taken alone or in any of their technical combinations- only possible:

[0013] - The reference axial stop is configured to be in axial abutment against the first flange along the reference axis X.

[0014] - The reference radial stop is configured to be in radial abutment against the first flange along a radial axis Y orthogonal to the reference axis X.

[0015] - The second flange of the second pipe is distant from the first flange in order to connect the first pipe to the second pipe by a compensation sleeve fixed on the first flange and on the second flange.

[0016] - In the absence of a relative positioning defect between the first flange and the second flange, a compensation sleeve may be mounted between the first flange and the second flange and may be fixed to the first flange and to the second flange.

[0017] - The body comprises a first radial guide rail and the first strip comprises a first slider, the first slider being slidably mounted on the first radial guide rail to form the first slide connection. Thus, the first slide connection is produced in a simple and precise manner.

[0018] - The first slider comprises a first axially sliding T-groove on the first radial guide rail. Thus, the first slide connection is made simply and precisely.

[0019] - The first radial guide rail extends longitudinally parallel to an axis radial Y orthogonal to the reference axis X.

[0020] - The first slide carries a guide strip. Thus, the precision of the first slide connection is improved.

[0021] - The first strip comprises a second axial guide rail and the second The slider comprises a second slider, the second slider being slidably mounted on the second axial guide rail to form the second slide connection. Thus, the second slide connection is produced simply and precisely.

[0022] - The second axial guide rail extends longitudinally parallel to the axis of reference X.

[0023] - The second slider comprises a second axially sliding T-groove on the second axial guide rail. This means that the second slide connection is made simply and precisely.

[0024] - The second strip comprises a finger of which a first finger portion extends axially from the second slide and of which a second finger portion extends radially from the end of the first finger portion distant from the second slide, the end of the second finger portion distant from the first finger portion forming the radial measuring stop.

[0025] - The first finger portion carries the targeting element.

[0026] - The measuring tool further comprises a clamping jaw, configured to clamp the body on the first flange together with the reference axial stop. This makes it easier to mount the measuring tool on the first flange.

[0027] - The body comprises a third axial guide rail, the clamping jaw being mounted axially sliding on the third axial guide rail so that a third slide connection configured to be parallel to the reference axis X connects the clamping jaw and the body. Thus, the positioning and mounting of the measuring tool on the first flange is carried out simply and precisely.

[0028] - The clamping jaw comprises a third T-shaped groove sliding axially on the third guide rail. Thus, the third slide connection is made simply and precisely.

[0029] - The clamping jaw is configured to bear axially on the first flange, on the face opposite the face configured to be in contact with the reference axial stop.

[0030] - The clamping jaw is configured to bear on a sleeve flange of a compensation sleeve, the sleeve flange being fixed and resting on the first flange.

[0031] - The measuring tool further comprises an adjustment screw, the adjustment screw being configured to adjust and maintain the axial position of the clamping jaw relative to the body. Thus, the adjustment of the positioning of the measuring tool relative to the first flange is carried out in a simple manner.

[0032] - The adjusting screw passes axially through a hole in the body and is engaged in a hole threaded from the clamping jaw.

[0033] - The reference radial stop comprises two plane surfaces inclined one by relative to each other to form an inverted V, the two flat surfaces extending along two axially intersecting planes, preferably along an axis configured to be parallel to the reference axis X. Thus, the reference radial stop is produced simply while being adapted to first flanges of different diameters.

[0034] - The measuring support is formed by a plate carrying a measuring sheet. Thus, the measuring support is made in a simple way.

[0035] - The plate extends parallel to the first sliding connection and to the second slide connection.

[0036] - The plate extends axially parallel to the reference axis X and radially orthogonally to the reference axis X.

[0037] - The plate has two axial edges each delimiting an axial slot of maintaining the measuring sheet. Thus, maintaining the measuring sheet is carried out in a simple and precise manner.

[0038] - Each axial flange is orthogonal to the first radial guide rail.

[0039] - The targeting element comprises a tangential targeting hole opening onto the measuring stand, which is configured to allow a user to mark a measurement point on the measurement sheet using a measurement marker. Thus, marking measurement points is simple and accurate.

[0040] - The measuring tool comprises a first position-holding element configured to hold the first ruler in position on the body. This makes measuring using the measuring tool easier because the first ruler is held in position on the body.

[0041] - The first position holding element is a screw axially engaged in a tapped hole of the first strip and configured to rest on the guide bar. Thus, the first position holding element is particularly easy to handle.

[0042] - The measuring tool comprises a second position-holding element configured to hold the second ruler in position on the first ruler. Thus, the measurement using the measuring tool is easier to perform because the second ruler is held in position on the first ruler.

[0043] - The second position holding element is a tangentially engaged screw in a tapped hole in the second strip and configured to rest on the second axial guide rail, via a second guide strip. Thus, the second position-holding element is particularly easy to handle.

[0044] - The predetermined angle is between 30° and 60°, preferably is equal to 30°, 45° or 60°.

[0045] - The angular range is equal to 90° or 180°.

[0046] - The measuring method is such that it further comprises the successive steps following, carried out previously and only once: - mark an X' axis on the measuring support, preferably on the measuring sheet, at the distance corresponding to the radial distance between the first flange in contact with the reference radial stop and the center of the targeting element, - measure an axial spacing Dmes along the reference axis X between the first flange and the second flange at an angular position around the X axis, - determine an axial offset Da such that Da = Dref - Dmes, Dref being a predetermined reference distance, and Dmes being the axial spacing, - mount the measuring tool on the first flange so that the reference axial stop is in axial abutment against the first flange and the reference radial stop is in radial abutment against the first flange, - slide the first ruler relative to the body and the second ruler relative to the first ruler until the radial measuring stop is in contact with the second flange, then hold the second ruler in position, - mark a preliminary measurement point using a measurement marker, the point of preliminary measurement representing a relative positioning defect between the first flange and the second flange, - disassemble the measuring tool from the first flange, and preferably remove the measuring sheet from the measuring tool, - mark a Y' axis on the measuring sheet, the Y' axis being orthogonal to the X' axis and passing at a minimum distance from the prior measuring point equal to the value of the axial offset Da, and preferably replace the measuring sheet in the measuring tool. Thus, the measuring points are visually identified relative to the X' axis representing the axial spacing, the Y' axis representing the lateral displacement, the origin resulting from the intersection of the X' axis and the Y' axis and representing an absence of relative positioning defect between the first flange and the second flange.

[0047] - The measuring method is such that it further comprises the following steps: - mark two axial spacing tolerance limit points on the X' axis, from values ​​from a tolerance table of a compensation sleeve configured to be mounted between the first flange and the second flange in the absence of relative positioning error between the first flange and the second flange, - mark two lateral displacement tolerance limit points on the Y' axis, from values ​​from a tolerance table of a compensation sleeve configured to be mounted between the first flange and the second flange in the absence of relative positioning error between the first flange and the second flange, - draw an uncrossed quadrilateral whose vertices are the two axial separation tolerance limit points and the two lateral displacement tolerance limit points, the uncrossed quadrilateral internally delimiting a tolerance area. This allows a visual and direct determination of whether the measuring points are located within the tolerance area or outside the tolerance area. If at least one measuring point is located outside the tolerance area, the relative positioning errors between the first flange and the second flange are such that a compensation sleeve cannot be fitted without suffering damage.Therefore, it is necessary to correct the relative positioning of the first flange and the second flange, for example by lengthening or shortening the first pipe and / or the second pipe to correct an axial spacing defect, and / or by realigning the first flange and the second flange to correct a lateral displacement defect, and / or by cutting a portion of the first pipe and / or the second pipe at an angle to correct a parallelism defect. In this regard, it is particularly simple to measure a parallelism defect a between the first flange and the second flange. For example, it is possible to make two measurement points at opposite angular positions of the measuring tool around the reference axis X, in other words at 180° from each other, then apply the formula: . a = sin '(d / Dext), where a is the misalignment, d is the maximum distance along the X' axis between two measurement points, and Dext is the outside diameter of the second flange. Thus, the measurement of the misalignment is read on the measurement sheet: simply measure the distance between the rightmost point of the measurement (maximum extension) and the leftmost point of the measurement (maximum compression). This distance represents the angular misalignment in millimeters. DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0048] Other characteristics, aims and advantages of the invention will emerge from the detailed description below, which is purely illustrative and non-limiting, and which must be read in conjunction with the appended drawings, given as non-limiting examples and in which:

[0049] [Fig. 1] represents a perspective view of a measuring tool according to one embodiment, mounted on a first flange of a first pipe and in radial abutment against a second flange of a second pipe distant from the first flange, a compensation sleeve being mounted between the first flange and the second flange;

[0050] [Fig.2] represents a perspective view of a body of the measuring tool shown in [Fig.l];

[0051] [Fig.3] represents a perspective view (Fig. 3a) as well as a top view (Fig. 3b) of a first ruler of the measuring tool represented in [Fig.l];

[0052] [Fig.4] represents a front view of a second ruler of the measuring tool shown in [Fig.l];

[0053] [Fig.5] represents a perspective view (Fig. 5a) as well as a bottom view (Fig. 5b) of the second ruler of the measuring tool shown in [Fig.l];

[0054] [Fig.6] represents a perspective view of a clamping jaw of the measuring tool shown in [Fig.l];

[0055] [Fig.7] represents a perspective view of a variant of the clamping jaw of the measuring tool;

[0056] [Fig.8] is a diagram of a measuring method according to one embodiment;

[0057] [Fig.9] represents a measuring sheet of the measuring tool shown in [Fig.l].

[0058] Throughout the figures, similar elements bear identical references. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] [Fig.l] represents a measuring tool 1 according to one embodiment, arranged between a first pipe 3 and a second pipe 5. More precisely, the measuring tool 1 is arranged between a first flange 7 of the first pipe 3 and a second flange 9 of the second pipe 5 distant from the first flange 7. The first flange 7 extends radially around a reference axis X. The second flange 9 is distant from the first flange 7 in order to connect the first pipe 3 to the second pipe 5 by a compensation sleeve 11 fixed on the first flange 7 and on the second flange 9. In this example, the diameter of the first flange 7 is equal to the diameter of the second flange 9. The measuring tool 1 is configured to measure relative positioning errors between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9. In the absence of relative positioning errors between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9, the compensation sleeve 11 can be mounted between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9 and can be fixed on the first flange 7 and on the second flange 9, without suffering any degradation.

[0060] Advantageously, the nominal diameter DN of the first pipe and the second pipe is standardized, and the diameter Dext of the first flange 7 and the second flange 9 is also standardized and is thus fixed as a function of the nominal diameter DN. For example, when DN = 100 mm, then Dext = 220 mm. The table below shows an example of tolerances admissible by the compensation sleeve 11, as a function of the nominal diameter DN and a nominal axial spacing value between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9.

[0061] [Tables 1] Dimensional characteristics Maximum permissible displacement Nominal diameter (DN) in mm Nominal length (LN) in mm axial in compression (LN-LC) in mm axial in extension (LE - LN) in mm lateral (R) in mm angular (a) in degrees 32 130 25 10 15 20 40 130 25 10 15 20 50 130 25 10 15 20 65 130 25 10 15 20 80 130 25 10 15 17 100 130 25 10 15 14 125 130 25 15 15 14 150 130 20 15 15 10 200 130 20 20 15 10 250 130 15 25 15 8 300 130 15 30 15 7

[0062] Thus, for example, when DN = 100 mm, the nominal axial spacing (LN) between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9 is equal to 130 mm, the maximum permissible axial compression is equal to 25 mm, the maximum permissible axial extension is equal to 10 mm, the maximum permissible lateral displacement defect (noted R in table 1) is equal to 15 mm, and the maximum permissible parallelism defect a is equal to 14°.

[0063] The measuring tool 1 comprises a body 13, also shown in [Fig.2], a first ruler 15, also shown in [Fig.3] (figures 3a and 3b), and a second ruler 17, also shown in [Fig.4] and in [Fig.5] (figures 5a and 5b).

[0064] As shown in [Fig.l], the first strip 15 is mounted to slide radially on the body 13. Thus, a first sliding connection connects the body 13 and the first strip 15. Advantageously, the first sliding connection is orthogonal to the reference axis X.

[0065] The second strip 17 is mounted axially sliding on the first strip 15. Thus, a second sliding connection connects the first strip 15 and the second strip 17. Advantageously, the second strip is parallel to the reference axis X.

[0066] The body 13 comprises a measuring support 19, an axial reference stop 21 and a radial reference stop 23.

[0067] Preferably, the measuring support 19 is formed by a plate 25 carrying a measuring sheet 27, the latter also being called a survey sheet. Advantageously, the plate 25 extends axially parallel to the reference axis X and radially orthogonally to the reference axis X. In other words, the plate 25 extends parallel to the first sliding connection and to the second sliding connection. Preferably, the plate 25 comprises two axial edges 29, 31 each delimiting an axial slot 33, 35 for holding the measuring sheet 27.

[0068] Advantageously, the reference axial stop 21 is in axial abutment against the first flange 7 along the reference axis X, and the reference radial stop 23 is in radial abutment against the first flange 7 along a radial axis Y orthogonal to the reference axis X.

[0069] Advantageously, the reference radial stop 23 comprises two flat surfaces SI, S2 inclined relative to each other to form an inverted V. Thus, the two flat surfaces SI, S2 extend along two axially intersecting planes, preferably along an axis parallel to the reference axis X.

[0070] Advantageously, the body 13 also comprises a first radial guide rail 37. The first radial guide rail 37 extends longitudinally parallel to the radial axis Y. Preferably, each axial rim 29, 31 is orthogonal to the first radial guide rail 37.

[0071] Advantageously, the first strip 15 comprises a first slider 39 and a second axial guide rail 41. The first slider 39 is slidably mounted on the first radial guide rail 37 to form the first sliding connection. Preferably, the first slider 39 comprises a first T-shaped groove 43, notably visible in [Fig. 3] (Fig. 3b), sliding axially on the first radial guide rail 37. Advantageously, the first slider 39 carries a guide strip 45, which is preferably housed in a lateral portion 46 of the first groove 43. The second axial guide rail 41 extends longitudinally parallel to the reference axis X.

[0072] Advantageously, the second ruler 17 comprises a targeting element 47 and a radial measurement stop 48 configured to be in radial abutment against the second flange 9. The targeting element 47 allows a user to mark a measurement point on the measurement support 19. Preferably, the radial measurement stop 48 has an axial thickness equal to that of the second flange 9. Advantageously, the radial measurement stop 48 is aligned with the second flange 9 when the radial measurement stop 48 is in radial abutment against the second flange 9.

[0073] Advantageously, the second strip 17 comprises a second slider 49 and a finger 51. The second slider 49 is slidably mounted on the second axial guide rail 41 to form the second sliding connection. Preferably, the second slider 49 comprises a T-shaped guide hole 53 configured to slide axially on the second axial guide rail 41 of the first strip 15. The finger 51 is such that a first finger portion 55 extends axially from the second slider 49 and a second finger portion 57 extends radially from the end of the first finger portion 55 remote from the second slider 49, preferably parallel to the Y axis and in the direction of the reference axis X. Preferably, the first finger portion 55 carries the targeting element 47. Advantageously, the end of the second finger portion 57 remote from the first finger portion forms the radial measurement stop 48.

[0074] Preferably, the targeting element 47 extends from the first finger portion 55 towards the measuring support 19. Advantageously, the targeting element 47 is located in a protrusion projecting from the first finger portion 55. Preferably, the targeting element 47 is in contact with the measuring sheet 27. Advantageously, the targeting element 47 comprises a tangential targeting hole 59 opening onto the measuring support 19. The tangential targeting hole 59 allows a user to mark a measurement point on the measuring sheet 27 by means of a measurement marker, such as a pencil or a pen. Preferably, the tangential targeting hole 59 is orthogonal to the reference axis X and to the radial axis Y.

[0075] Preferably, the measuring tool 1 comprises a first holding element in position 61 configured to hold the first strip 15 in position on the body 13. Advantageously, the first position holding element 61 is a screw axially engaged in a tapped hole in the first strip 15 and configured to rest on the guide strip 45.

[0076] Advantageously, the measuring tool 1 comprises a second position-holding element 61' configured to hold the second strip 15 in position on the first strip 17. Advantageously, the second position-holding element 61' is identical to the first position-holding element 61. Preferably, the second position-holding element 61' is a screw engaged tangentially in a tapped hole 63 of the second strip 35 and configured to bear on the second axial guide rail 41, via a second guide gib. This second guide strip is held by the screw engaged tangentially in the tapped hole 63. Advantageously, the second guide strip is housed in a lateral part 64 of the T-shaped guide hole 53. Preferably, the second guide strip is introduced on the side of the targeting element 47. Advantageously, the second guide strip is identical to the guide strip 45.

[0077] Advantageously, the measuring tool 1 further comprises a clamping jaw 67, which is also shown in [Fig. 6]. The clamping jaw 67 clamps the body 13 on the first flange 7 together with the reference axial stop 21. As shown in [Fig. 1], the clamping jaw 67 bears on a sleeve flange 71 of the compensation sleeve 11. The sleeve flange 71 is fixed and bears on the first flange 7. Preferably, the body 13 comprises a third axial guide rail 69, the clamping jaw 67 being mounted to slide axially on the third axial guide rail 69 so that a third sliding connection parallel to the reference axis X connects the clamping jaw 67 and the body 13.

[0078] Advantageously, the clamping jaw 67 comprises a third T-shaped groove 73 sliding axially on the third guide rail 69.

[0079] Preferably, the measuring tool 1 further comprises an adjustment screw 75. The adjustment screw 75 is configured to adjust and maintain the axial position of the clamping jaw 67 relative to the body 13. Advantageously, the adjustment screw 75 axially passes through a hole 76 of the body 13 and is engaged in a tapped hole 77 of the clamping jaw 67.

[0080] According to a variant of the clamping jaw 67 shown in [Fig. 7], the clamping jaw 67 is dimensioned such that the axial dimension of the clamping jaw 67 is shorter according to this variant. Advantageously according to this variant, the clamping jaw 67 is configured to bear axially on the first flange 7, on the face opposite the face configured to be in contact with the reference axial stop 21.

[0081] [Fig.8] represents the main steps of a method for measuring relative positioning defects between a first flange 7 of a first pipe 3 and a second flange 9 of a second pipe 5 distant from the first flange 7. Thus, the measuring tool 1 previously described is configured to implement the measuring method described below.

[0082] Such a measuring method comprises the following successive steps: - P100 mount the measuring tool 1 previously described on the first flange 7 so that the reference axial stop 21 is in axial abutment against the first flange 7 and the reference radial stop 23 is in radial abutment against the first flange 7, preferably adjust the clamping jaw 67 using the adjusting screw 75 to clamp the body 13 on the first flange 7 together with the reference axial stop 21, - PI 10 slide the first strip 15 relative to the body 13 and the second strip 17 relative to the first strip 15 until the radial measuring stop 48 is in contact with the second flange 9, then hold the second strip 17 in position, - P120 mark a measuring point by means of a measuring marker, the measuring point representing a relative positioning defect between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9, - P130 move the measuring tool 1 angularly around the reference axis X with a predetermined angle, - P140 repeat the previous steps at least twice, preferably at least three times, until the measuring tool 1 has covered an angular range of at least 90°, preferably at least 180°.

[0083] Advantageously, the predetermined angle is between 30° and 60°. Preferably, the predetermined angle is equal to 30°, 45° or 60°.

[0084] Advantageously, the angular range is equal to 90° or 180°.

[0085] Advantageously, the measuring method further comprises the following successive steps, carried out prior to the steps described above and only once: - P10 mark an axis X' on the measuring support 19, preferably on the measuring sheet 27 as shown in [Fig.9], at the distance corresponding to the radial distance between the first flange 7 in contact with the reference radial stop 23 and the center of the targeting element 47, - P20 measure an axial spacing Dmes along the reference axis X between the first flange and the second flange at an angular position around the X axis, - P30 determine an axial offset Da such that Da = Dref - Dmes, Dref being a predetermined reference distance, and Dmes being the axial spacing, - P40 mount the measuring tool 1 on the first flange 7 so that the axial stop of reference 21 is in axial abutment against the first flange 7 and that the radial stop of reference 23 is in radial abutment against the first flange 7, preferably adjust the clamping jaw 67 using the adjusting screw 75 to clamp the body 13 on the first flange 7 together with the axial stop of reference 21, - P50 slide the first strip 15 relative to the body 13 and the second strip 17 relative to the first strip 15 until the radial measuring stop 48 is in contact with the second flange 9, then hold the second strip 17 in position, preferably hold the first strip 15 in position by the first position-holding element 61, - P60 mark a preliminary measurement point by means of a measurement marker, the preliminary measurement point representing a relative positioning defect between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9, - P70 disassemble the measuring tool 1 from the first flange 7, and preferably remove the measuring sheet 27 from the measuring tool 1, - P80 mark a Y' axis on the measuring sheet 27, the Y' axis being orthogonal to the X' axis and passing at a minimum distance from the previous measuring point equal to the value of the axial offset Da, and preferably replace the measuring sheet 27 in the measuring tool 1.

[0086] Advantageously, the radial distance is measured along the radial axis Y.

[0087] Optionally, step P50 is such that the radial measuring stop 48 is aligned with the second flange 9, preferably that a lateral edge of the radial measuring stop 48 is aligned with the face of the second flange 9 facing the compensation sleeve 11, so that the lateral edge of the radial measuring stop 48 and the face of the second flange 9 are at the same axial position along the reference axis X.

[0088] Advantageously, the measuring method is such that it further comprises the following steps: - P85 mark two axial spacing tolerance limit points E, F on the X' axis, from values ​​from a tolerance table of the compensation sleeve 11 configured to be mounted between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9 in the absence of relative positioning defect between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9, - P90 mark two lateral displacement tolerance limit points G, G' on the Y' axis, from values ​​from a tolerance table of the compensation sleeve 11 configured to be mounted between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9 in the absence of relative positioning defect between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9, - P95 draw an uncrossed quadrilateral Ll, L2, L3, L4 whose vertices are the two axial spacing tolerance limit points E, F and the two limit points of lateral displacement tolerance G, G', the non-crossing quadrilateral L1, L2, L3, L4 internally delimiting a tolerance area. Thus, it is visually and directly determined whether the measuring points are located within the tolerance area or outside the tolerance area. If at least one measuring point is located outside the tolerance area, the relative positioning defects between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9 are such that a compensation sleeve 11 cannot be mounted without suffering damage.Therefore, it is necessary to correct the relative positioning of the first flange 7 and the second flange 9, for example by lengthening or shortening the first pipe 3 and / or the second pipe 5 to correct an axial spacing defect, and / or by realigning the first flange 7 and the second flange 9 to correct a lateral displacement defect, and / or by cutting a portion of the first pipe 3 and / or the second pipe 5 at an angle to correct a parallelism defect. In this regard, it is particularly simple to measure a parallelism defect a between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9.For example, it is possible to make two measuring points at opposite angular positions of the measuring tool 1 around the reference axis X, in other words at 180° from each other, and then to carry out a step of calculating the parallelism defect a by applying the formula: ames = sin '(d / Dext), where ames is the parallelism defect, d is the maximum distance along the X' axis between two measuring points, and Dext is the outside diameter of the second flange 9. Alternatively, the value of d is compared to a value dmax, with dmax = Dext. sin a, where dmax is the maximum permissible distance along the X' axis between two measuring points, a is the maximum permissible parallelism defect, and Dext is the outside diameter of the second flange 9. Thus, this makes it possible to measure the defect directly on the measuring sheet 27 by simply measuring the distance d between the rightmost point and the leftmost point and comparing it to this value dmax.Therefore, the three defects appear on measurement sheet 27. .

[0089] Thus, for example, when DN = 100 mm, the nominal axial distance between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9 is equal to 130 mm, the maximum permissible axial compression is equal to 25 mm, the maximum permissible axial extension is equal to 10 mm, the maximum permissible lateral displacement (noted R in Table 1) is equal to 15 mm, and the maximum permissible parallelism defect a is equal to 14°. Point E is then placed at -25 mm on the X' axis, point F is placed at +10 mm on the X' axis, and points G and G' are placed at 15 mm on the Y' axis, on either side of the X' axis. The empty measuring sheet 27 can be used for all the compensating sleeves of this manufacturer, of this type, of this reference and of this size. It will not need to be redone during a future inspection. This measurement sheet is valid if the MCE is in place (operational control).Otherwise (checking the position of the flanges, with the MCE dismantled during maintenance), we use . the tool with the second shorter jaw. In other words, in this case the variant of the clamping jaw 67 shown in [Fig.7] is used.

[0090] If all the measuring points are within the tolerance range, or even on the lines L1, L2, L3 or L4, the compensation sleeve 11 is not deformed beyond the permissible tolerances and the mounting of the compensation sleeve 11 between the first flange 7 and the second flange 9 is then determined to be acceptable. If only one measuring point is outside the tolerance range, it is necessary to correct the relative positioning of the first flange 7 and the second flange 9, as described above, in order to allow the mounting of a compensation sleeve 11 without it being degraded. If a compensation sleeve 11 is already mounted, the compensation sleeve 11 undergoes deformation outside the tolerances and it must be sent for scrap and replaced.

Claims

Claims

1. Measuring tool (1) configured to measure relative positioning defects between a first flange (7) of a first pipe (3) and a second flange (9) of a second pipe (5) distant from the first flange (7), the first flange (7) extending radially around a reference axis X, the measuring tool (1) being characterized in that it comprises: - a body (13) comprising a measuring support (19), an axial reference stop (21), configured to be in axial abutment against the first flange (7), and a radial reference stop (23), configured to be in radial abutment against the first flange (7), - a first strip (15) mounted radially sliding on the body (13) so that a first sliding connection configured to be orthogonal to the reference axis X connects the body (13) and the first strip (15),- a second strip (17) mounted axially sliding on the first strip (15) so that a second sliding connection configured to be parallel to the reference axis X connects the first strip (15) and the second strip (17), the second strip (17) comprising a targeting element (47) and a radial measuring stop (48) configured to be in radial abutment against the second flange (9), the targeting element (47) being configured to allow a user to mark a measuring point on the measuring support (19).,

2. Measuring tool (1) according to claim 1, wherein the body (13) comprises a first radial guide rail (37) and wherein the first ruler (15) comprises a first slider (39), the first slider (39) being slidably mounted on the first radial guide rail (37) to form the first sliding connection.

3. Measuring tool (1) according to claim 2, wherein the first slider (39) carries a guide bar (45).

4. Measuring tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first strip (15) comprises a second axial guide rail (41) and wherein the second strip (17) comprises a second slider (49), the second slider (49) being slidably mounted on the second axial guide rail (41) to form the second slide connection.

5. Measuring tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which further comprises a clamping jaw (67), configured to clamp the body (13) on the first flange (7) together with the reference axial stop (21).

6. Measuring tool (1) according to claim 5, wherein the body (13) comprises a third axial guide rail (69), the clamping jaw (67) being mounted to slide axially on the third axial guide rail (69) so that a third sliding connection configured to be parallel to the reference axis X connects the clamping jaw (67) and the body (13).

7. The measuring tool (1) of claim 6, which further comprises an adjustment screw (75), the adjustment screw (75) being configured to adjust and maintain the axial position of the clamping jaw (67) relative to the body (13).

8. Measuring tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, which comprises a first position-holding element (61) configured to hold the first strip (15) in position on the body (13), and a second position-holding element configured to hold the second strip (17) in position on the first strip (15).

9. Measuring tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the measuring support (19) is formed by a plate (25) carrying a measuring sheet (27).

10. A measuring tool (1) according to claim 9, wherein the targeting element (47) comprises a tangential targeting hole (59) opening onto the measuring support (19), the tangential targeting hole (59) being configured to allow a user to mark a measurement point on the measuring sheet (27) by means of a measurement marker.

11. Method for measuring relative positioning defects between a first flange (7) of a first pipe (3) and a second flange (9) of a second pipe (5) distant from the first flange (7), the method comprising the following successive steps: - mounting the measuring tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 on the first flange (7) so that the axial reference stop (21) is in axial abutment against the first flange (7) and the radial reference stop (23) is in radial abutment against the first flange (7), - sliding the first strip (15) relative to the body (13) and the second strip (17) relative to the first strip (15) until that the radial measuring stop (48) is in contact with the second flange (9), then hold the second ruler (17) in position, - mark a measuring point using a measuring marker, the measuring point representing a relative positioning defect between the first flange (7) and the second flange (9), - move the measuring tool (1) angularly around the reference axis X with a predetermined angle, - repeat the previous steps at least twice, preferably at least three times, until the measuring tool (1) has covered an angular range of at least 90°, preferably at least 180°.

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