Device for locking a double-threaded nipple, system and corresponding equipment.

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a locking device for a double-threaded nipple (A0), the nipple comprising: a first male threaded rod (A0-1) for insertion into an orifice; a second male threaded rod (A0-2) for securing to a bell nut (C0); and a nut (A0-3) forming the central body of the nipple (A0); the locking device comprising: at least one cylindrical locking bar (S1-2) extending from the nut (A0-3), parallel to the central body, in the direction of the second male threaded rod (A0-2); a multi-position nut (S2) shaped to fit around the bell nut (C0), the multi-position nut (S2) comprising at least one housing for receiving the cylindrical locking bar (S1-2); and means for locking the multi-position nut (S2) against vertical translation. Fig. 5

Description

Title of the invention: Device for locking a double-threaded nipple, system and corresponding equipment.

[0001] Domain

[0002] The disclosure relates to the field of operational safety of devices subjected to vibrational and time-varying temperature stresses. More specifically, the disclosure relates to the retention, within a dedicated opening of a device subjected to such stresses, of a probe or any other module. Previous art

[0003] Power generation facilities, as well as industrial installations, such as large industrial sites, include backup systems to maintain various pieces of equipment necessary for the safe operation of the facilities. This includes the role of generator sets or diesel engines, which can supply electricity in the event of a total loss of power from the public grid, for example. WARTSILA™ UD45™ diesel engines are examples of such engines used in large power installations; these engines consist of approximately 20 cylinders and two turbochargers.

[0004] Unlike the optimal operation of diesel engines (such as propulsion engines for boats, among others), which experience low thermal and vibrational stresses over long periods of continuous operation, the diesel engines in these installations are started several times a year for very short periods (a few hours at most) to validate their operating criteria, for example, according to precise specifications describing the frequency of preventive tests. Among these criteria for proper diesel engine operation are the alternator output voltage, rotational speed, water circuit temperature, etc. One such criterion is, for example, the homogeneity of temperatures recorded by the cylinder and turbo temperature sensors.

[0005] Thus, for example, a temperature probe is described in relation to [Fig. 1]. An example of a double-threaded stem nipple A0 consists of two threaded stems A0-1, AO-2, for example, of different diameters, one being larger than the other, and a central body A0-3 that connects them. The nipple body A0-3 is generally cylindrical or slightly conical, with threaded ends to allow connection with other components. It is made from various materials, such as brass, stainless steel, or copper, depending on the application and corrosion resistance requirements.

[0006] The larger threaded stem AO-2, generally referred to as the "male," is used to connect to a component having a matching internal thread, such as a nut or fitting. The smaller threaded stem A0-1, referred to as the "female," is used to connect to a component having a matching external thread, such as a pipe or other nipple, or an orifice, as in the present case. The sizes of double-threaded nipples vary depending on the standards and measurement systems used. For example, according to the American standard NPT ("National Pipe Thread"), the nominal diameters of male threaded stems range from 1 / 16 to 4 inches, while the nominal diameters of female threaded stems range from 1 / 16 to 2 inches.According to the European ISO standard (“International Organization for Standardization”), the nominal diameters of male threaded rods range from M6 to M100, while the nominal diameters of female threaded rods range from M6 to M64.

[0007] In the example shown, a probe B0 (more generally a module) is inserted into the nipple. In the example shown, the first end of the probe B0-1 is intended to be inserted into a hole provided for this purpose (for example, in the engine) and it protrudes from the threaded rod A0-1. The second end of the probe BO-2, on the other hand, protrudes from the threaded rod AO-2 and, in this example, passes through a bell nut C0, the thread of which matches that of the threaded rod AO-2.

[0008] A C0 bell nut is a type of nut used to connect to a threaded rod, particularly when the threaded rod has a large diameter and a large contact area is required. It is called a "bell" nut because of its bell or dome shape.

[0009] The bell nut C0, for example, consists of a central bell-shaped body, a threaded portion inside the body, and a clamping ring outside the body. The central body has a large, flat, and smooth contact surface, which allows for even pressure distribution and prevents leaks.

[0010] In this case, the bell nut C0 is drilled in its upper part to allow the passage of the probe B0. This makes it possible to measure or monitor parameters such as temperature, pressure, or flow rate inside the system, for example. The hole in the bell nut C0 is adapted to allow the installation of a seal, for example, a hermetic seal. Furthermore, in the illustrated example, internal copper washers D0-1 and D0-2 are positioned to ensure the connection is watertight.

[0011] In this example, the smaller diameter threaded rod A0-1 is screwed into a (also threaded) hole provided for this purpose in a predetermined location on the motor. The bell nut C0 is used to properly hold and position the probe in the measuring position. Such an arrangement, described in relation to [Fig. 1], can also be found in other motor configurations, for other manufacturers or for functions other than temperature measurement. The problem with this arrangement is that it does not provide sufficient guarantees of secure attachment to keep the probe in its designated opening (for example, on the engine). In particular, cases of probe ejection are regularly reported. A probe can normally only be ejected if the mechanical stress is released at the probe's bell nut. This release of mechanical stress is caused by the loss of tightening torque due to thermal and vibrational stresses associated with the short-term operation of diesel engines.Indeed, since these engines are only started for short periods (less than a few hours) a few times a year, the expansion and contraction of the internal copper seals in the sensors gradually eliminates the tightening torque of the bell nut. Once loosened, the nut unscrews due to the vibrations of the diesel engine. Once the bell nut is completely free, the pressure generated at the cylinder outlets during startup is sufficient to eject the measuring sensor. Such ejections lead to significant financial consequences, particularly in terms of maintenance and downtime for the affected engines, as well as safety issues (exhaust gas ejection from the ports exposed by the sensors, fire hazards, etc.).

[0012] To remedy this problem, six-finned retaining washers E0, as illustrated in Figure 2, have been proposed. This washer is placed on the threaded rod AO-2 of the nipple and butts against the nipple nut A0-3. Once the assembly of the bell nut CO, nipple AO, and probe B0 is mounted (the threaded rod A0-1 is screwed into the hole provided for this purpose), half of the fins must be folded down onto the nipple nut A0-3, and the other half onto the bell nut CO. This assembly appears suitable for the normal (nominal) operation of these motors (continuous operation with low thermal and vibration variability), but in the context of intermittent use of these motors, the repetition of thermal and vibrational stresses has shown that this washer E0 is not sufficient to guarantee the retention of the probe; the fins of the retaining washer eventually spread apart and no longer perform their retaining function.

[0013] Another solution was to apply a high-temperature threadlocker to the threads of the two threaded rods of the nipple nut and to the bell nut during assembly. However, this solution did not prove effective under the operating conditions described above.

[0014] Disclosure improves the situation.

[0015] Summary

[0016] The invention relates to a locking device for a double-threaded nipple, the nipple comprising: a first male threaded rod, intended to be inserted into an orifice; a second male threaded rod intended to be secured with a nut bell; and a nut forming the central body of the nipple. According to the invention, the locking device comprises: - at least one cylindrical locking bar extending from the nut, parallel to the central body of the nipple, in the direction of the second male threaded rod; - a multi-position nut shaped to fit around the bell nut, the multi-position nut comprising at least one housing for receiving the cylindrical locking bar; - means for locking the multi-position nut against vertical translation.

[0017] Thus, even in the event of strong vibration, the two nuts remain interlocked.

[0018] According to a particular feature, the cylindrical locking bar extends vertically from a shaped base to form a vise on at least three sides of the nut.

[0019] Thus, an additional device can be used to secure an existing nipple nut.

[0020] According to a particular feature, the nipple is shaped to receive a module which extends at least between the first threaded rod and the second threaded rod.

[0021] Thus, the nipple can be used for example to secure a module in a dedicated orifice.

[0022] According to a particular feature, the multi-position nut is in the form of a cylindrical part, the body of which takes the form of a gear whose teeth are adapted to receive said at least one locking bar.

[0023] According to a particular feature, the means for locking the multi-position nut in vertical translation comprise at least one hook whose eye is adapted to take place on the upper portion of said at least one locking bar.

[0024] Thus, an overlock is implemented, making it possible to prevent the multi-position nut from being ejected from its housing by vibration, for example vibration of a petrol or diesel engine.

[0025] According to a particular feature, the means for locking the multi-position nut in vertical translation comprise at least one pin adapted to take place within a horizontal orifice made within the upper portion of said at least one locking bar.

[0026] According to another aspect, the invention also relates to a system comprising: - a double-threaded nipple, the nipple comprising: a first male threaded rod, intended to be inserted into an orifice; a second male threaded rod intended to be secured with a bell nut; and a nut forming the central body of the nipple; - a module of generally cylindrical shape, the module taking place within the nipple and comprising a first end intended to take place within the orifice; and a second end passing through the bell nut in its upper part; - a blocking device as described above.

[0027] According to a particular feature, the module is a temperature measuring probe.

[0028] According to another aspect, the invention also relates to equipment comprising at least one system as previously described and at least one threaded hole into which the first male threaded rod is screwed.

[0029] According to a particular characteristic, the equipment is an electric current generator. Brief description of the figures

[0030] Other features and advantages of the disclosure will become clearer upon reading the following description of a particular embodiment, given by way of simple illustrative and non-limiting example, and the accompanying drawings, among which: - [Fig-1] already presented, illustrates a temperature probe mounting assembly; - figure 2 already presented, illustrates a six-finned washer; - [Fig.3] illustrates the different components of the locking device in an implementation; - [Fig.4] illustrates a first phase of positioning the blocking device in a realization; - [Fig.5] illustrates the locking device positioned in an implementation; - [Fig.6] illustrates a second realization of the blocking device.

[0031] Description of an embodiment.

[0032] As previously stated, the disclosure aims to secure, within a threaded opening, a module comprising, for example, a probe, such as a temperature probe. The module (for example, the probe) is longitudinal in shape, with one end of the module intended to be inserted into the opening and the other end of the module intended to protrude from the opening.

[0033] The disclosure-blocking system prevents the bell nut from disengaging. As previously explained, such disengagement can lead to leaks, material damage, and disruptions in the system's operation.

[0034] The disclosure-blocking system works by ensuring an interlock between the nipple nut and the bell nut. This means that the two nuts are mechanically linked so that the bell nut cannot disengage from the threaded rod (without the nipple nut also moving).

[0035] To achieve this interlocking, a transfer mechanism is attached to the nipple nut. This transfer mechanism can take various forms, such as a rod, a lever, or a ring, depending on the type of nipple and the application. One embodiment is described below.

[0036] The transfer mechanism is designed to apply a force to the bell nut, which is directly related to the (fixed) position of the nipple nut. This means that when the nipple nut is tightened (the first threaded rod is tightened within the corresponding orifice), the force exerted by the transfer mechanism on the bell nut is sufficient to hold the bell nut in place and prevent it from disengaging. Thus, the leak-prevention system is an additional safety mechanism that reduces the risk of leaks and material damage in the event of accidental loosening or excessive vibration in the system.

[0037] In other words, the disclosure blocking system prevents the disengagement of the bell nut by ensuring an interlock between the nipple nut and the bell nut, using a transfer mechanism grafted onto the nipple nut.

[0038] Depending on the embodiment, the threaded rods of the nipple and the bell nut are screwed in opposite directions. This means that the first threaded rod of the nipple is, for example, screwed clockwise, while the threaded rod of the bell nut is screwed counterclockwise.

[0039] Screwing the threaded rods in opposite directions prevents the bell nut from loosening when the nipple is subjected to mechanical stress or vibration. Indeed, when the nipple is subjected to a tensile or compressive force, it could tend to move slightly along the axis of the threaded rod, given the reduction in tightening torque described above. By ensuring, in a particular embodiment, that the threaded rods are screwed in opposite directions, the movement of the nipple along the axis of the threaded rod cannot cause the bell nut to loosen. On the contrary, the transfer mechanism attached to the nipple nut exerts a force on the bell nut that is directly related to the fixed position of the nipple nut, and vice versa.This force helps to keep the bell nut in place and prevent any loosening, even in the event of significant mechanical stress or vibration, but also to keep the nipple nut in place.

[0040] With reference to Figures 3 to 5, an example of an embodiment of a locking system for a module housed in a nipple as described previously with reference to [Fig. 1] is presented. In this embodiment of Figures 3 to 5, a locking device for a double-threaded nipple A0 is illustrated, the nipple comprising: a first a male threaded rod AO-1, ​​intended to be inserted into an orifice; a second male threaded rod AO-2 intended to be secured with a bell nut CO; and a nut AO-3 forming the central body of the nipple AO; the locking device comprising: - at least one cylindrical locking bar S1-2 extending from the nut AO-3, parallel to the central body of the nipple AO, in the direction of the second male threaded rod AO-2; - a multi-position nut S2 shaped to fit around the bell nut CO, the multi-position nut S2 comprising, at least one housing for receiving the cylindrical locking bar S1-2; - means for locking the multi-position nut S2 in vertical translation.

[0041] In the illustrated embodiment, the cylindrical locking bar S1-2 extends vertically from a base S1 shaped to form a vise on at least three sides of the nut AO-3. It could, however, be directly integrated into the nipple body, in a situation where a nipple is directly manufactured by integrating this locking bar as well as the means necessary for its offset from the nipple body.

[0042] Thus, the blocking device comprises, in this embodiment: - a base SI which is mounted on the nipple nut and which traps it by being held by a profile S1-1 which fits between the two nuts (within a groove Rx, as illustrated in [Fig.4] and [Fig.5]); this base SI also includes, in this embodiment, a locking bar S1-2 for a multi-position nut S2. - a multi-position nut S2 allows the bell nut of the probe to be locked in place; the positioning of the bell nut relative to the nipple nut depends on the tightening torque and the compression of the internal copper seal of the probe; the multi-position nut S2 is designed to have a plurality of possible positionings by a multiplication of internal flats and several positioning possibilities on the locking bar; thus the positioning of the multi-position nut S2 relative to the base SI is therefore possible regardless of the positioning of the bell nut relative to the nipple nut; - a locking lock S3 for vertical translation of the multi-position nut S2 and the base SI, this lock S3 being positioned in the upper part Sl-3 on the locking bar of the base SI by surrounding the probe head; - a pin S4 which is positioned within an orifice S1-4 in the upper part of the locking bar S1-2 of the base SI, this pin S4 ensuring a locking function in vertical translation of the assembly.

[0043] More specifically, the base SI is generally in the form of a plate with a predetermined thickness (for example, approximately half the height of the nipple nut). The (external) shape, width, and length of this plate are adapted to the requirements, and in particular to the location where the system is to be installed, especially in terms of the available space for the locking system. In the example shown in Figures 3 to 5, the plate is generally shaped like the head of a wrench. More specifically, this wrench-shaped base SI is shaped so that its jaw fits the shape and size of the nipple nut onto which the base is to be attached, so that at least three or four sides (depending on the number of sides of the nut) of the nipple nut are locked within the head of the base.As explained previously, this head is fitted with an S1-1 profile that extends inwards towards the jaw of the head. This S1-1 profile extends so as to fit between the nipple nut and the bell nut during the assembly of the locking system. In the figures, the internal shape of the profile is identical to that of the jaw of the base head, but this internal shape could just as easily be circular, for example, with a diameter equal to the external diameter of the larger diameter threaded rod. Depending on the application, the profile may be in the form of a thinner plate welded to the plate forming the open-end wrench head. In other configurations, particularly when machining a steel part for the production of the base, the profile may be machined directly into the steel part.Furthermore, the base also includes the locking bar S1-2, which in this embodiment is cylindrical and whose height is shaped to fit the multi-position nut S2. The diameter of the cylinder is matched to the complementary diameter of the external teeth of the multi-position nut S2. The locking bar S1-2 is positioned perpendicular to the plane of the base head (and the profile) on the outside of the head and facing the jaw. At the top of the locking bar S1-2, there is a stud S1-4 (whose diameter is smaller than the diameter of the cylinder). This stud is horizontally drilled (drill axis parallel to the plane of the base head), through and through, to allow the insertion of the retaining pin.

[0044] More specifically, the multi-position nut S2 is generally in the form of a cylindrical part of a predetermined height (approximately half the height of the bell nut in the embodiment shown). The body (external part) of the multi-position nut S2 is in the form of a gear whose teeth (straight) are adapted to receive the locking bar Sl-2. The profile of one tooth of the gear is shaped so that the flank (internal part of the tooth), which is semi-cylindrical in shape, matches the shape and diameter of the locking bar Sl-2. Depending on the embodiment, particularly the size of the multi-position nut For S2, the number of teeth is adjusted. In the example shown in Figures 3 to 5, seven semi-cylindrical flanges are machined. Depending on the specific embodiment, the multi-position nut S2 is not necessarily closed (as shown in [Fig. 3]). A vertical recess S2-V is machined, allowing for some adaptability of the multi-position nut S2. Furthermore, the internal part of the multi-position nut S2 also takes the form of a gear S2-x with spur teeth shaped to adapt to multiple (pre-determined) positions of the bell nut. To achieve this, the internal diameter of the multi-position nut S2 is generally identical to the external diameter of the bell nut, and multiple teeth S2-y are formed within the gear S2-x. The teeth S2-y are, for example, triangular in shape and allow them to adapt to the external body of the bell nut to lock it in place.The number of teeth S2-y is therefore much greater than the number of external teeth of the multi-position nut S2. Thus, regardless of the position of the bell nut, it is possible to position the multi-position nut S2 so that one of its hemispherical flanks is occupied by the locking bar S1-2 and the bell nut is locked by the teeth of the inner part of the multi-position nut S2, as illustrated, for example, in [Fig. 5].

[0045] More specifically, the vertical translation locking latch S3 is specifically adapted to the embodiment presented in relation to Figures 3 to 5. Depending on the module to be protected (here, a cylindrical probe passing through the bell nut), the locking latch can take other configurations, or even be absent from the system in certain cases.In this case, the locking bolt S3 is a flat hook with a cylindrical eye S3-1. The internal diameter of this cylinder is equal to the external diameter of the locking bar S1-2. The height of this cylinder is designed so that its base, when in position, rests on the upper part of the multi-position nut S2, preventing any vertical translational movement. Furthermore, the diameter and shape of the hook are adapted to fit around the module being protected. These parameters are therefore essentially dependent on the specific circumstances of the application.

[0046] In an alternative embodiment, shown in [Fig. 6], the base SI comprises two locking bars for the multi-position nut S2. In this configuration, the multi-position nut S2 is not modified. However, two vertical translation locking latches S3 are positioned above each of the two locking bars. It should be noted that it is entirely possible to have a single vertical translation locking latch S3, which would include three openings: one opening for each locking bar and one opening (optionally) for the module to be protected (if this module protrudes from the bell nut as in the illustrations).

[0047] The materials used to manufacture these components of the disclosure-blocking system are adapted to the requirements. In the specific case presented in relation to the prior art, given the constraints, the preferred material is steel. More particularly, the thickness and size of the components are shaped to prevent their deformation under the thermal and vibrational stresses described above. For applications other than that presented in relation to the prior art, other materials and thicknesses are of course possible.

[0048] It should also be noted that the embodiment presented is adapted to the implementation of an additional locking device, which is added to the assembly illustrated in relation to the prior art to lock the module in the threaded hole provided for this purpose. However, this embodiment is by no means limiting. Indeed, one contribution of the disclosure lies in the interlocking of the nipple nut and the bell nut. Another embodiment of the disclosure device could consist of manufacturing a nipple that directly incorporates the locking bar(s). In other words, in an alternative embodiment, which would be intended not for maintenance but directly for manufacturing, the nipple is modified to integrate all or part of the elements of the base as presented above, and in particular one or more locking bars.In such a situation, the external shape of the modified nipple is adapted to receive clamping means whose size is increased compared to the initially intended size.

[0049] The assembly procedure is as follows. After inserting the module into the nipple, as before, and screwing the nipple into the designated hole (optionally using threadlocker for this initial tightening operation), the base is positioned on the nipple nut: the jaw of the base is fitted, like the head of a wrench, onto the body of the nipple nut so that the profile is positioned on top of the nipple nut. The bell nut is then screwed onto the second threaded rod of the nipple (i.e., the one that was not inserted into the dedicated hole) until it presses against the profile of the base. In the next step, the multi-position nut is inserted over the bell nut in a position that allows the locking bar to engage with one of its external hemispherical teeth. The multi-position nut is then locked in place.The vertical translation locking bolt is then inserted so that its cylindrical eye is positioned over the multi-position nut, and the pin is then inserted into the free opening in the locking bar's nipple. As mentioned previously, depending on the design, the nipple can be selected so that the tightening directions of the two threaded rods are reversed: one of the two threaded rods is tightened clockwise and the other counterclockwise.

Claims

Demands

1. A locking device for a double-threaded nipple (AO), the nipple comprising: a first male threaded rod (AO-1), intended to be inserted into an orifice; a second male threaded rod (AO-2) intended to be secured with a bell nut (CO); and a nut (AO-3) forming the central body of the nipple (AO); the locking device comprising: - at least one cylindrical locking bar (S 1-2) extending from the nut (AO-3), parallel to the central body of the nipple (AO), in the direction of the second male threaded rod (AO-2); - a multi-position nut (S2) shaped to fit around the bell nut (CO), the multi-position nut (S2) comprising, at least, one housing for receiving the cylindrical locking bar (S 1-2); - means of locking in vertical translation of the multi-position nut (S2).

2. Locking device according to claim 1 characterized in that the cylindrical locking bar (S 1-2) extends vertically from a base (SI) shaped to form a vise on at least three sides of the nut (AO-3).

3. Locking device according to claim 1, characterized in that the nipple (AO) is shaped to receive a module (BO) which extends at least between the first threaded rod (AO-1) and the second threaded rod (AO-2).

4. Locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 characterized in that the multi-position nut (S2) is in the form of a cylindrical part, the body of which takes the form of a gear whose teeth are adapted to receive said at least one locking bar (S 1-2).

5. Locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 characterized in that the means for locking the multi-position nut (S2) in vertical translation comprise at least one hook (S3) whose eye (S3-1) is adapted to take place on the upper portion (Sl-3) of said at least one locking bar (Sl-2).

6. A locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the means for locking the nut in vertical translation multi-position (S2) include at least one pin (S4) adapted to take place within a horizontal orifice (S 1-4) made within the upper portion (S 1-3) of said at least one locking bar (S 1-2).

7. System comprising: - a double-threaded nipple (AO), the nipple comprising: a first male threaded rod (AO-1), intended to be inserted into an orifice; a second male threaded rod (AO-2) intended to be secured with a bell nut (CO); and a nut (A0-3) forming the central body of the nipple (AO); - a module (B0) of generally cylindrical shape, the module taking place within the nipple and comprising a first end (B0-1) intended to take place within the orifice; and a second end (BO-2) passing through the bell nut (CO) at its upper part; - a locking device according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. System according to claim 7, characterized in that the module (B0) is a temperature measuring probe.

9. Equipment comprising at least one system according to claim 7 and at least one threaded hole into which the first male threaded rod (A0-1) is screwed.

10. Equipment according to claim 9 characterized in that it is an electric current generator.

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