Joint device

Abstract

To provide a joint device for allowing sufficient welding using electromagnetic induction.SOLUTION: A joint device 1 includes a joint member 20 to which an end 10a of a connected pipe 10 is connected, a conductive member 21 which can generate heat with electromagnetic induction, and a holding member 22 laid between the joint member 20 and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10 and weldable with heat generation of the conductive member 21 while holding the conductive member 21. At least one of the joint member 20 and the holding member 22 is constructed so that a gas flow path 250 is formed to pass from between the joint member 20 and the holding member 22, between the holding member 22 and the connected pipe 10, or between the joint member 20 and the connected pipe 10 to the outside when the joint member 20, the holding member 22 and the connected pipe 10 are assembled.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a coupling device. [Background technology]

[0002] Joints used in piping for semiconductor manufacturing equipment, etc., are generally mechanically connected to a pipe using a screw mechanism, etc. For example, with a pipe inserted into the joint, the joint and the pipe are connected to each other by tightening a screw mechanism provided on the outside of the joint and the pipeline (see Patent Document 1).

[0003] However, when connecting a fitting to a pipe using the above-mentioned mechanical method, the thickness of the fitting must be increased to withstand the tightening stress of the threads, which results in a larger connection structure between the fitting and the pipe. In addition, the connection between the fitting and the pipe may become loose due to vibrations or internal pressure during use of the piping, which requires retightening to prevent leakage.

[0004] In view of this, it has been proposed to attach a conductive member to a joint that is to be connected to a pipe, generate heat in the conductive member through electromagnetic induction, and fuse the joint and the pipe together (see Patent Document 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-115154 A [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2020 / 022178 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in the above-mentioned joint device, air remaining between the joint and the pipe may expand during welding, resulting in some portions of the joint being insufficiently welded.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned points, and one of its objects is to provide a joint device that can satisfactorily perform welding using electromagnetic induction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A coupling device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a coupling member to which an end of a connected pipe is connected, a conductive member capable of generating heat by electromagnetic induction, and a holding member interposed between the coupling member and the end of the connected pipe, holding the conductive member and capable of melting by heat generated by the conductive member, wherein at least one of the coupling member or the holding member is configured such that, when the coupling member, holding member and connected pipe are assembled, a gas flow path is formed between the coupling member and the holding member, between the holding member and the connected pipe, or between the coupling member and the connected pipe to the outside.

[0009] According to this aspect, the high-temperature gas expanded between the joint member, the holding member, and the connected pipe is discharged to the outside through the gas flow passage. Also, the high-temperature gas flowing through the gas flow passage promotes welding. As a result, welding using electromagnetic induction can be sufficiently performed.

[0010] In the above aspect, the gas flow path may have a first flow path between the coupling member and the holding member, and the first flow path may be formed so as to communicate with the space inside the connected pipe or the space outside the connected pipe.

[0011] In the above aspect, the first flow passage may include a groove formed in a surface of the retaining member or the joint member.

[0012] In the above aspect, the gas flow path may have a second flow path between the holding member and the connected pipe, and the second flow path may be formed so as to communicate with the space inside the connected pipe or the space outside the connected pipe.

[0013] In the above embodiment, the second flow path may include a groove formed in the surface of the holding member.

[0014] In the above aspect, the gas flow path may have a third flow path between the coupling member and the connected pipe, and the third flow path may be formed so as to communicate with the space inside the connected pipe or the space outside the connected pipe.

[0015] In the above embodiment, the third flow passage may include a groove formed in a surface of the joint member.

[0016] In the above aspect, the holding member may have an accommodating portion that accommodates the conductive member, and the accommodating portion may be configured such that, when the conductive member is accommodated in the accommodating portion, a first space is formed between the inner wall surface of the accommodating portion and the conductive member.

[0017] In the above embodiment, the first space may communicate with the gas flow path.

[0018] In the above aspect, the coupling device may further include a pressing member that presses the end of the connected pipe from the outside.

[0019] In the above embodiment, the gas flow passage may have a fourth flow passage between the pressing member and the joint member.

[0020] In the above aspect, the joint member may have a connection end portion that is disposed inside the end portion of the connected pipe, and the holding member may be configured to be able to be fitted onto the connection end portion.

[0021] A coupling device according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a coupling member to which an end of a connected pipe is connected, and a conductive member interposed between the coupling member and the end of the connected pipe and capable of generating heat by electromagnetic induction, the coupling member being configured such that when the coupling member, the conductive member and the connected pipe are assembled, a gas flow path leading from between the coupling member and the connected pipe to the outside is formed.

[0022] In the above aspect, the joint member may have a housing portion that houses the conductive member.

[0023] In the above aspect, a pressing member for pressing the end of the connected pipe from the outside may be further provided. Effect of the Invention

[0024] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a joint device that can satisfactorily perform welding using electromagnetic induction. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0025] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of each member of a joint device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the configuration when the components of the joint device are assembled. [Diagram 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating other configurations of the holding member. [Figure 8] 13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining the configuration of a joint device when a holding member has a hole. [Figure 9] 6A and 6B are diagrams for explaining holes in a holding member. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an example of each member of a joint device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the configuration when the components of the joint device are assembled. [Figure 12] FIG. [Figure 13] 13A and 13B are diagrams for explaining the configuration of a pressing member that does not have a threaded portion. [Figure 14] 11A and 11B are diagrams for explaining the configuration of a joint member that does not have a threaded portion. [Figure 15] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the configuration when the components of the joint device are assembled. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0026] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The same elements are given the same reference numerals and duplicated explanations will be omitted. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the positional relationships such as up, down, left, right, etc. are based on the positional relationships shown in the drawings.

[0027] (First embodiment) <Configuration of coupling device> Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of each member of a coupling device 1 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 2 is a view for explaining a configuration when each member of the coupling device 1 is assembled. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the coupling device 1 cut along a vertical plane including a central axis C.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, for example, the coupling device 1 includes a coupling member 20 to which the end 10a of the connected pipe 10 is connected, a conductive member 21 capable of generating heat by electromagnetic induction, a holding member 22 interposed between the coupling member 20 and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10, which holds the conductive member 21 and is meltable by the heat generated by the conductive member 21, and a pressing member 23.

[0029] The connected pipe 10 is formed of a material used for piping in semiconductor manufacturing equipment, such as a fluororesin. The material of the connected pipe 10 is not particularly limited, and may be other plastic resins such as PP. The connected pipe 10 may be a circular pipe that is soft and deformable. The connected pipe 10 has an end 10a and a main body 10b. The end 10a has a shape that expands in diameter as it approaches the end. The end 10a may have a curved shape that is convex outward. The main body 10b has the same diameter along the axial direction X. In this specification, the "outside" refers to the outside in the radial direction with respect to the central axis C of the connected pipe 10 or the coupling member 20, and the "inside" refers to the side of the central axis C.

[0030] The joint member 20 has, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape. The joint member 20 is made of a material that melts due to heat generated by the conductive member 21. The joint member 20 is made of, for example, resin.

[0031] For example, the coupling member 20 has a connection end 30 to which the connected pipe 10 is connected, a fixing portion 31 to which the pressing member 23 is fixed, and a base portion 32. The connection end 30 and the fixing portion 31 are disposed at both ends of the base portion 32 in the axial direction X. The connection end 30 is disposed on the front side of the fixing portion 31. In this specification, the connection end 30 side of the coupling member 20 in the axial direction X in FIG. 1 is referred to as the "front", and the opposite base portion 32 side is referred to as the "rear".

[0032] For example, the connection end portion 30 has a first cylindrical portion 40 and a second cylindrical portion 41. The first cylindrical portion 40 is connected to the front side of the second cylindrical portion 41. The second cylindrical portion 41 has a larger outer diameter than the first cylindrical portion 40.

[0033] 2, for example, the first cylindrical portion 40 has a diameter slightly larger than the minimum inner diameter of the end portion 10a of the connected pipe 10 so as to abut against the portion (root portion) of the end portion 10a having the minimum diameter. The first cylindrical portion 40 has a protruding portion 45 that protrudes outward at the front end portion. The protruding portion 45 is formed in an annular shape.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, for example, the first cylindrical portion 40 has a first end face 50, a first outer peripheral surface 51, a second end face 52, and a second outer peripheral surface 53 in this order from front to rear. The first end face 50 constitutes the endmost face of the joint member 20. The first end face 50 is a surface perpendicular to the central axis C and faces forward. The front end of the first outer peripheral surface 51 is connected to the outer end of the first end face 50. The rear end of the first outer peripheral surface 51 is connected to the outer end of the second end face 52. The second end face 52 is a surface perpendicular to the central axis C and faces backward. The first end face 50, the first outer peripheral surface 51, and the second end face 52 form a protruding portion 45. The second outer peripheral surface 53 has a smaller diameter than the first outer peripheral surface 51. The front end of the second outer peripheral surface 53 is connected to the inner end of the second end surface 52 .

[0035] For example, the second cylindrical portion 41 has a third end face 60 and a third outer peripheral surface 61 in this order from front to rear. The third end face 60 is a surface perpendicular to the central axis C and faces forward. The inner end of the third end face 60 is connected to the rear end of the second outer peripheral surface 53. The third outer peripheral surface 61 has a larger diameter than the first outer peripheral surface 51 and the second outer peripheral surface 53. The front end of the third outer peripheral surface 61 is connected to the outer end of the third end face 60. The first cylindrical portion 40 and the second cylindrical portion 41 have an inner peripheral surface 65 having an inner diameter equal to or smaller than the inner diameter of the main body portion 10b of the connected pipe 10.

[0036] For example, the fixing portion 31 has a threaded portion 70 that screws into a threaded portion 170 (to be described later) of the pressing member 23 .

[0037] For example, the fixing portion 31 has a fourth end face 80, a fourth outer peripheral surface 81, and a fifth end face 82, in this order from front to rear. The fourth end face 80 is a surface perpendicular to the central axis C and faces forward. The inner end of the fourth end face 80 is connected to the rear end of the third end face 60. The fourth outer peripheral surface 81 has a larger diameter than the third outer peripheral surface 61. The front end of the fourth outer peripheral surface 81 is connected to the outer end of the fourth end face 80. A threaded portion 70 is formed on the fourth outer peripheral surface 81.

[0038] The fifth end face 82 is a face perpendicular to the central axis C and faces forward. An inner end of the fifth end face 82 is connected to a rear end of the fourth outer peripheral face 81. The fixing portion 31 has an inner peripheral surface 85 having the same inner diameter as the connecting end 30 and the fixing portion 31.

[0039] For example, the base portion 32 has a fifth outer peripheral surface 90. The fifth outer peripheral surface 90 has a larger diameter than the fourth outer peripheral surface 81. A front end of the fifth outer peripheral surface 90 is connected to an outer end of the fifth end surface 82. The base portion 32 has an inner peripheral surface 95 having the same inner diameter as the connecting end portion 30 and the fixing portion 31.

[0040] The conductive member 21 is formed of, for example, carbon or metal silicon. Note that the material of the conductive member 21 is not limited to this, and may be metal such as stainless steel material (SUS430), steel material (SS400), pre-hardened steel (NAK55), spring material (SUS304WPB, SUS316WPA), etc.

[0041] 1 and 2, the conductive member 21 has an annular shape. The conductive member 21 has a front end surface 100, a rear end surface 101, an outer circumferential surface 102, and an inner circumferential surface 103. The conductive member 21 has a substantially rectangular cross section when cut along a vertical plane including the central axis C.

[0042] The holding member 22 is made of a material that melts due to heat generated by the conductive member 21. The holding member 22 is made of, for example, a resin. The holding member 22 is made of a resin having a melting point similar to that of the joint member 20, such as PFA.

[0043] 1, 2, and 4, the holding member 22 has a generally cylindrical shape. The holding member 22 has an inner circumferential surface 110, an outer circumferential surface 111, and a rear end surface 112.

[0044] The inner circumferential surface 110 has a recess 120 that is recessed outward at the end on the front side. The recess 120 is formed in an annular shape. The inner circumferential surface 110 has a first inner circumferential surface 130, a first end surface 131, and a second inner circumferential surface 132, in this order from front to rear. The first inner circumferential surface 130 has a diameter substantially the same as that of the first outer circumferential surface 51 of the coupling member 20. The first end surface 131 is a surface perpendicular to the central axis C and faces forward. The outer end of the first end surface 131 is connected to the rear end of the first inner circumferential surface 130. The first inner circumferential surface 130 and the first end surface 131 form the recess 120. The second inner circumferential surface 132 has a diameter substantially the same as that of the second outer circumferential surface 53 of the coupling member 20. The second inner circumferential surface 132 has a diameter smaller than that of the first inner circumferential surface 130. The front end of the second inner circumferential surface 132 is connected to the inner end of the first end surface 131 .

[0045] The outer peripheral surface 111 has a shape that gradually expands in diameter from the front to the rear. The outer peripheral surface 111 has a shape that corresponds to the expanding inner surface of the end 10a of the connected pipe 10. The outer peripheral surface 111 has a shape that curves outwardly convexly from the outer end of the first end face 50 to the outer end of the third end face 60 of the coupling member 20.

[0046] The rear end surface 112 is a surface perpendicular to the central axis C and faces rearward. An inner end of the rear end surface 112 is connected to a rear end of the inner circumferential surface 110, and an outer end of the rear end surface 112 is connected to a rear end of the outer circumferential surface 111. The rear end surface 112 has a shape corresponding to the third end surface 60 of the coupling part 20.

[0047] The rear end surface 112 has a housing portion 150 that houses the conductive member 21. The housing portion 150 has a recessed shape that is recessed forward. As shown in FIG. 5, the housing portion 150 is formed in an annular shape. As shown in FIG. 2, the housing portion 150 has a shape that allows the conductive member 21 to be fitted therein. The housing portion 150 has a shape larger than the conductive member 21. The housing portion 150 has an inner wall surface 150a such that a first space 160 is formed between the conductive member 21 and the housing portion 150 when the conductive member 21 is housed therein. The first space 160 may be formed in a recessed shape on the bottom of the front side of the housing portion 150, for example. The housing portion 150 may have a first recess into which the conductive member 21 is fitted and a second recess that forms the first space 160.

[0048] The pressing member 23 is made of a material such as PTFE having a higher melting point than the joint member 20 and the holding member 22, or PFA having the same melting point as the joint member 20 and the holding member 22. The pressing member 23 has a substantially cylindrical shape. As shown in Figures 1, 2 and 6, the pressing member 23 has a threaded portion 170 that screws into the threaded portion 70 of the joint member 20.

[0049] The pressing member 23 has a first portion 190 capable of covering the end portion 10a of the connected pipe 10, and a second portion 191 capable of covering the fixing portion 31 of the coupling member 20. The first portion 190 has an inner circumferential surface 200 that expands in diameter to correspond to the shape of the end portion 10a of the connected pipe 10. The second portion 191 has an inner circumferential surface 201 that corresponds to the shape of the fixing portion 31 of the coupling member 20. The inner circumferential surface 201 has a thread portion 170 formed thereon.

[0050] 2, the joint member 20 and the holding member 22 are configured so that, when assembled (before welding), a gas flow path 250 is formed that leads from the portion to be welded to the outside. The portion to be welded is a portion to be welded by the heat of the conductive member 21. The gas flow path 250 may be formed in the portion to be welded between the joint member 20 and the holding member 22, between the holding member 22 and the connected pipe 10, and between the joint member 20 and the connected pipe 10. The gas flow path 250 may be formed in one or both of the joint member 20 and the holding member 22.

[0051] The gas flow path 250 has a first flow path 260 formed between the coupling member 20 and the holding member 22, a second flow path 261 formed between the holding member 22 and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10, and a third flow path 262 formed between the coupling member 20 and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10.

[0052] 2 and 3, for example, the first flow passage 260 has first grooves 300 continuously formed along the axial direction X and radial direction R on the first outer peripheral surface 51, the second end face 52, and the second outer peripheral surface 53 of the coupling member 20. The first grooves 300 may have a depth of, for example, 0.1 mm or more. The first grooves 300 are formed at a plurality of locations in the circumferential direction of the coupling member 20. The first grooves 300 may be arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction or at different intervals.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 5, for example, the first flow passage 260 has a second groove 310 formed in the rear end surface 112 of the holding member 22 along the radial direction R. The second groove 310 may have a depth of, for example, 0.1 mm or more. The second groove 310 is formed from the accommodation portion 150 formed in the rear end surface 112 to the outer end of the rear end surface 112. That is, the second groove 310 communicates with the accommodation portion 150. The second groove 310 is formed at a plurality of locations in the circumferential direction of the rear end surface 112. The second grooves 310 may be arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction or at different intervals.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 4, for example, the second flow passage 261 has a third groove 320 formed in the outer peripheral surface 111 of the holding member 22. The third groove 320 has a first portion 320a formed along the axial direction X of the outer peripheral surface 111 and a second portion 320b formed in an annular shape along the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface 111. The first portion 320a is formed from the front end to the rear end of the outer peripheral surface 111. The first portion 320a is formed at a plurality of positions in the circumferential direction of the outer peripheral surface 111. The first portions 320a may be arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction or may be arranged at different intervals. The first portion 320a is connected to the second groove 310. The second portion 320b is connected to the first portion 320a. The second portion 320b is formed near the center of the outer peripheral surface 111 in the axial direction X. One or more second portions 320b are formed. The first portion 320a and the second portion 320b of the third groove 320 may have a depth of, for example, 0.1 mm or more.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, for example, the third flow passage 262 has a fourth groove 330 formed in the first end face 50 of the coupling member 20 along the radial direction R. The fourth groove 330 may have a depth of, for example, 0·1 mm or more. The fourth groove 330 is formed at a plurality of locations in the circumferential direction of the first end face 50. The fourth grooves 330 may be arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction or may be arranged at different intervals. The fourth groove 330 is connected to the first groove 300. As shown in FIG. 2, the fourth groove 330 is connected to the third groove 320 when the holding member 22 is attached to the coupling member 20. The fourth groove 330 communicates with the inner space (outside) of the connected pipe 10 when the connected pipe 10 is attached to the coupling member 20.

[0056] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the third flow passage 262 has a fifth groove 340 continuously formed in the axial direction X and radial direction R on the third outer circumferential surface 61 and the fourth end surface 80 of the coupling member 20. The fifth groove 340 may have a depth of, for example, 0.1 mm or more. The fifth groove 340 may be formed at a plurality of locations in the circumferential direction of the coupling member 20. The fifth grooves 340 may be arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction or at different intervals. As shown in Figure 2, the fifth groove 340 is connected to the second groove 310 and the third groove 320 when the holding member 22 is attached to the coupling member 20.

[0057] Furthermore, the gas flow passage 250 has a fourth flow passage 400 formed between the joint member 20 and the pressing member 23. The fourth flow passage 400 may be formed in at least one of the joint member 20 or the pressing member 23.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, the fourth flow passage 400 has a sixth groove 410 formed in the fifth end face 82 of the joint member 20 along the radial direction R. The sixth groove 410 may have a depth of, for example, 0.1 mm or more. The sixth groove 410 is formed at a plurality of locations in the circumferential direction of the fifth end face 82. The sixth grooves 410 may be disposed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction or may be disposed at different intervals. As shown in FIG. 2, the sixth groove 410 communicates with the fifth groove 340 via the threaded portion 70 when the pressing member 23 is attached to the joint member 20. The sixth groove 410 communicates with the space outside the connected pipe 10 (outside).

[0059] <Welding method using a joint device> Next, a welding method (a manufacturing method of a joint structure) using the joint device 1 configured as above will be described.

[0060] First, as shown in FIG. 1, the connected pipe 10, the coupling member 20, the conductive member 21, the holding member 22, and the pressing member 23 of the coupling device 1 are prepared. The end 10a of the connected pipe 10 is processed and expanded in diameter by a dedicated jig. The conductive member 21 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 150 of the holding member 22. As shown in FIG. 2, the holding member 22 is fitted into the connection end 30 of the coupling member 20 while holding the conductive member 21. At this time, the protrusion 45 of the connection end 30 and the recess 120 of the holding member 22 are fitted together, and the holding member 22 is fixed to the coupling member 20. Next, the end 10a of the connected pipe 10 is fitted into the connection end 30 so as to cover the outer periphery of the holding member 22 and the connection end 30 of the coupling member 20. Next, the pressing member 23 is fitted into the fixing portion 31 so as to cover the outer periphery of the end 10a of the connected pipe 10 and the fixing portion 31 of the coupling member 20. The threaded portion 170 of the pressing member 23 and the threaded portion 70 of the joint member 20 are screwed together, and the pressing member 23 is fixed to the joint member 20 while pressing the end portion 10a of the connected pipe 10 from the outside. In this manner, the connected pipe 10, the joint member 20, the conductive member 21, the holding member 22 and the pressing member 23 are assembled before welding.

[0061] The above assembly forms a gas flow path 250 that leads from the portion to be welded to the outside. A first flow path 260 is formed between the joint member 20 and the holding member 22, a second flow path 261 is formed between the holding member 22 and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10, and a third flow path 262 is formed between the joint member 20 and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10. A part or all of the first flow path 260, the second flow path 261, and the third flow path 262 communicate with a first space 160 formed in the accommodating portion 150 of the holding member 22. A part or all of the first flow path 260, the second flow path 261, and the third flow path 262 communicate with a space outside the connected pipe 10 (outside) via a fourth flow path 400 formed between the joint member 20 and the pressing member 23. A part or the whole of first flow passage 260, second flow passage 261 and third flow passage 262 communicates with the inner space (outside) of connected pipe 10 via fourth groove 330 of third flow passage 262.

[0062] Next, the electromagnetic induction type welding machine is operated to electromagnetically induce the conductive member 21 of the coupling device 1, causing the conductive member 21 to heat up. The heat of the conductive member 21 is transferred to the surrounding coupling member 20, the holding member 22, and the connected pipe 10, and the coupling member 20 and the holding member 22, the holding member 22 and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10, and the coupling member 20 and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10 are welded to each other. At this time, the gas remaining or generated in the portion to be welded becomes hot due to the heat of the conductive member 21. When the portion to be welded is being welded, the high-temperature gas flows to the outside through the gas flow path 250. For example, the high-temperature gas in the first space 160 of the holding member 22 flows from the fourth groove 330 through the first flow path 260, the second flow path 261, and the third flow path 262 to the space inside the connected pipe 10. The high-temperature gas flows from the fourth flow path 400 through the first flow path 260, the second flow path 261, and the third flow path 262 into the space outside the connected pipe 10. The high-temperature gas flows while promoting welding of the parts to be welded. In this way, the parts to be welded are welded, and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10 is connected to the coupling member 20. Thereafter, the welding machine is stopped, and the operation of connecting the coupling member 20 and the connected pipe 10 is completed.

[0063] According to this embodiment, when the coupling member 20, the holding member 22, and the connected pipe 10 are assembled, a gas flow path 250 is formed between the coupling member 20 and the holding member 22, between the holding member 22 and the connected pipe 10, or between the coupling member 20 and the connected pipe 10, leading to the outside, so that high-temperature gas expanded between the coupling member 20, the holding member 22, and the connected pipe 10 is discharged to the outside through the gas flow path 250. In addition, welding is promoted by the high-temperature gas flowing through the gas flow path 250. As a result, welding using electromagnetic induction can be performed satisfactorily.

[0064] The gas flow passage 250 has a first flow passage 260 between the joint member 20 and the holding member 22, and the first flow passage 260 is formed to communicate with the space inside the connected pipe 10 or the space outside the connected pipe 10. This allows the high-temperature gas expanded between the joint member 20 and the holding member 22 to be properly discharged. In addition, the high-temperature gas properly welds the joint member 20 and the holding member 22 together.

[0065] The first flow passage 260 includes a first groove 300 and a second groove 310 formed on the surface of the retaining member 22 or the joint member 20. In this way, the first flow passage 260 is properly formed.

[0066] The gas flow path 250 has a second flow path 261 between the holding member 22 and the connected pipe 10, and the second flow path 261 is formed to communicate with the space inside the connected pipe 10 or the space outside the connected pipe 10. This allows the high-temperature gas expanded between the holding member 22 and the connected pipe 10 to be properly discharged. In addition, the high-temperature gas properly welds the holding member 22 and the connected pipe 10 together.

[0067] The second flow path 261 includes a third groove 320 formed in the surface of the holding member 22. In this way, the second flow path 261 is properly formed.

[0068] The gas flow path 250 has a third flow path 262 between the coupling member 20 and the connected pipe 10, and the third flow path 262 is formed to communicate with the space inside the connected pipe 10 or the space outside the connected pipe 10. This allows the high-temperature gas expanded between the coupling member 20 and the connected pipe 10 to be properly discharged. In addition, the high-temperature gas properly welds the coupling member 20 and the connected pipe 10 together.

[0069] The third flow passage 262 includes a fourth groove 330 and a fifth groove 340 formed in the surface of the joint member 20. In this way, the third flow passage 262 is properly formed.

[0070] The holding member 22 has an accommodating portion 150 that accommodates the conductive member 21, and the accommodating portion 150 is configured such that, when the conductive member 21 is accommodated in the accommodating portion 150, a first space 160 is formed between an inner wall surface 150a of the accommodating portion 150 and the conductive member 21. This allows high-temperature gas expanded in the first space 160 to flow through the gas flow path 250. As a result, a larger amount of high-temperature gas flows into the gas flow path 250, further promoting welding.

[0071] Since the first space 160 communicates with the gas flow passage 250, the high-temperature gas in the first space 160 flows into the gas flow passage 250 more reliably.

[0072] The coupling device 1 includes a pressing member 23 that presses the end 10a of the connected pipe 10 from the outside. This prevents high-temperature gas from remaining inside the end 10a of the connected pipe 10.

[0073] The gas flow passage 250 has a fourth flow passage 400 between the pressing member 23 and the joint member 20. This allows high-temperature gas expanded between the joint member 20, the holding member 22, and the connected pipe 10 to be properly discharged.

[0074] The joint member 20 has a connection end portion 30 that is disposed inside the end portion 10a of the connected pipe 10, and the holding member 22 is configured to be able to be fitted into the connection end portion 30. This allows the gas flow passage 250 to be appropriately formed.

[0075] In the present embodiment, the first portion 320a of the third groove 320 formed in the outer peripheral surface 111 of the holding member 22 is formed from the front end to the rear end of the outer peripheral surface 111, but may be formed from near the center in the axial direction X of the outer peripheral surface 111 to the front end as shown in Fig. 7. Also, the first portion 320a of the third groove 320 may be formed from near the center in the axial direction X of the outer peripheral surface 111 to the rear end.

[0076] In the present embodiment, the gas flow path 250 is formed between the coupling member 20 and the holding member 22, between the holding member 22 and the connected pipe 10, and between the coupling member 20 and the connected pipe 10, but may be formed at least one of between the coupling member 20 and the holding member 22, between the holding member 22 and the connected pipe 10, and between the coupling member 20 and the connected pipe 10. That is, the gas flow path 250 may have at least one of a first flow path 260, a second flow path 261, and a third flow path 262.

[0077] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the holding member 22 may have at least one hole 450 leading from the first space 160 to the third groove 320 on the surface of the holding member 22. The hole 450 may extend in the axial direction X from the first space 160 toward the third groove 320. As shown in FIG. 9, a plurality of holes 450 may be arranged along the circumferential direction of the holding member 22. The plurality of holes 450 may be arranged at equal intervals along the circumferential direction of the holding member 22. The plurality of holes 450 may also be arranged such that the intervals between adjacent holes 450 are different. In this case, a portion of the high-temperature gas flows out from the first space 160 through the hole 450 to the third groove 320, which further promotes welding between the joint member 20 and the holding member 22 and welding between the connected pipe 10 and the holding member 22.

[0078] (Second embodiment) Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing an example of each member of the coupling device 1 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 11 is a view for explaining the configuration when each member of the coupling device 1 is assembled. Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the coupling device 1 cut along a vertical plane including the central axis C.

[0079] 10 and 11, the coupling device 1 does not need to include a retaining member 22. That is, the coupling device 1 includes a coupling member 20 to which the end 10a of the connectable pipe 10 is connected, a conductive member 21 that is interposed between the coupling member 20 and the end 10a of the connectable pipe 10 and is capable of generating heat by electromagnetic induction, and a pressing member 23.

[0080] The connection end 30 of the joint member 20 has, in this order from the front to the rear, a first end face 500, a first outer circumferential surface 501, a second end face 502, and a second outer circumferential surface 503.

[0081] The first end face 500 constitutes the endmost face of the coupling member 20. The first end face 500 is a face perpendicular to the central axis C and faces forward. The front end of the first outer peripheral surface 501 is connected to the outer end of the first end face 500. The second end face 502 is a face perpendicular to the central axis C and faces forward. The front end of the second outer peripheral surface 503 is connected to the outer end of the second end face 502. The second outer peripheral surface 503 has a larger diameter than the first outer peripheral surface 501. The second outer peripheral surface 503 has an inclined surface 505 whose diameter gradually increases as it approaches the rear. The inclined surface 505 has a shape corresponding to the inner peripheral surface of the end 10a of the connected pipe 10. The front end of the inclined surface 505 is connected to the outer end of the second end face 502. The rear end of the second outer circumferential surface 503 is connected to the inner end of the fourth end surface 80 of the fixing portion 31 .

[0082] The second end surface 502 has an accommodating portion 550 that accommodates the conductive member 21. The accommodating portion 550 has a concave shape that is concave toward the rear. The accommodating portion 550 is formed in an annular shape. The accommodating portion 550 has a shape that allows the conductive member 21 to be fitted therein. The accommodating portion 550 has the same shape as the conductive member 21. The accommodating portion 550 may have a shape larger than the conductive member 21.

[0083] The joint member 20 is configured so that a gas flow path 600 is formed from the portion to be welded to the outside when assembled. The gas flow path 600 is formed in the portion to be welded that is to be welded by the heat of the conductive member 21. The gas flow path 600 is formed between the joint member 20 and the connected pipe 10.

[0084] As shown in FIG. 12, the gas flow passage 600 has a first groove 650 formed in the first end face 500 of the joint member 20 along the radial direction R, and a second groove 660 formed in the second outer peripheral surface 503 and the fourth end face 80 along the axial direction X. The first groove 650 is formed at a plurality of positions in the circumferential direction of the first end face 500 at equal intervals. The second groove 660 is formed at a plurality of positions in the circumferential direction of the second outer peripheral surface 503 and the fourth end face 80. The second grooves 660 may be arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction or at different intervals. The first groove 650 and the second groove 660 may have a depth of, for example, 0.1 mm or more. Grooves may also be formed in the first outer peripheral surface 501 and the second end face 502.

[0085] 11 and 12, the first groove 650 communicates with the inner space (outside) of the connectable pipe 10 when the connectable pipe 10 is attached to the coupling member 20. The second groove 660 communicates with the first groove 650 when the connectable pipe 10 is attached to the coupling member 20. The second groove 660 communicates with the first groove 650 when the connectable pipe 10 is attached to the coupling member 20. The second groove 660 communicates with the sixth groove 410 via the threaded portion 70 when the pressing member 23 is attached to the coupling member 20.

[0086] Other configurations of the joint device 1 may be similar to those of the first embodiment.

[0087] 11, when welding is performed using the coupling device 1, the conductive member 21 is accommodated in the accommodation portion 550 of the coupling member 20, and the end portion 10a of the connectable pipe 10 is fitted into the connection end portion 30 of the coupling member 20 so as to cover the outer periphery of the connection end portion 30. Then, the pressing member 23 is fitted into the fixing portion 31 of the coupling member 20 so as to cover the end portion 10a of the connectable pipe 10 and the outer periphery of the fixing portion 31, and the pressing member 23 is fixed to the coupling member 20. In this way, the connectable pipe 10, the coupling member 20, the conductive member 21 and the pressing member 23 are assembled before welding.

[0088] The above assembly forms a gas flow path 600 that communicates from the portion to be welded to the outside. The gas flow path 600 is formed between the coupling member 20 and the connected pipe 10. A part or all of the first groove 650 and the second groove 660 communicate with the space outside the connected pipe 10 (the outside) via a fourth flow path 400 formed between the coupling member 20 and the pressing member 23. A part or all of the first groove 650 and the second groove 660 communicate with the space inside the connected pipe 10 (the outside) via the first groove 650.

[0089] Next, the electromagnetic induction type welding machine is operated to electromagnetically induce the conductive member 21 of the coupling device 1, causing the conductive member 21 to heat up. The heat of the conductive member 21 is transferred to the surrounding coupling member 20 and the connected pipe 10, and the coupling member 20 and the end 10a of the connected pipe 10 are welded to each other. At this time, the gas remaining or generated in the portion to be welded becomes hot due to the heat of the conductive member 21. When the portion to be welded is being welded, the high-temperature gas flows to the outside through the gas flow path 600. The high-temperature gas flows from the first groove 650 through the second groove 660 to the space inside the connected pipe 10. The high-temperature gas flows from the fourth flow path 400 through the second groove 660 to the space outside the connected pipe 10. The high-temperature gas flows while promoting the welding of the portion to be welded. In this manner, the portions to be welded are welded, and the end portion 10a of the connected pipe 10 is connected to the joint member 20.

[0090] According to this embodiment, when the joint member 20, the conductive member 21, and the connected pipe 10 are assembled, a gas flow path 600 is formed between the joint member 20 and the connected pipe 10, leading to the outside, so that high-temperature gas expanded between the joint member 20 and the connected pipe 10 is discharged to the outside through the gas flow path 600. In addition, welding is promoted by the high-temperature gas flowing through the gas flow path 600. As a result, welding using electromagnetic induction can be performed satisfactorily.

[0091] In the above first and second embodiments, the pressing member 23 is fixed to the joint component 20 by the threaded portion 170, but it may be fixed to the joint component 20 by an engaging portion. In this case, as shown in Fig. 13, the pressing member 23 has an engaging portion 700 that protrudes inward at the rear end of the inner circumferential surface 201. As shown in Figs. 14 and 15, the fixing portion 31 of the joint component 20 has a recess 710 into which the engaging portion 700 fits. The recess 710 is disposed rearward of the fourth outer circumferential surface 81.

[0092] The fourth outer peripheral surface 81 may not have a threaded portion. The fourth flow passage 400 has a seventh groove 720 formed on the fourth outer peripheral surface 81 along the axial direction X. The seventh groove 720 may have a depth of, for example, 0.1 mm or more. The seventh groove 720 is formed at a plurality of locations in the circumferential direction of the fourth outer peripheral surface 81. The seventh grooves 720 may be arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction, or may be arranged at different intervals. As shown in FIG. 15, the seventh groove 720 communicates with the sixth groove 410 via the recess 710 when the pressing member 23 is attached to the coupling member 20. The seventh groove 720 is connected to the fifth groove 340 of the fourth end face 80.

[0093] In the above embodiment, the shapes of the joint member 20, conductive member 21, holding member 22, pressing member 23, and gas flow passage 250 of the joint device 1 are not limited to those in the above embodiment. The joint member 20 may have a known shape such as an I-shape, an L-shape, or a T-shape. The joint device 1 does not need to include the pressing member 23. The shape of the connected pipe 10 is also not limited to that in the above embodiment.

[0094] The above embodiments are described for the purpose of explanation and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. Various modifications can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, some components in one embodiment can be added to other embodiments. Also, some components in one embodiment can be replaced with corresponding components in other embodiments. [Industrial Applicability]

[0095] The present invention is useful in providing a joint device that is capable of satisfactorily performing welding using electromagnetic induction. [Explanation of symbols]

[0096] 1 Coupling device 10 Connected pipe 10a end 20 Joint members 21 Conductive materials 22 Retaining member 23 Holding member 250 Gas flow path C center axis X-axis direction R Radial direction

Claims

1. a joint member to which an end of the connected pipe is connected; A conductive member capable of generating heat by electromagnetic induction; a holding member that is interposed between the joint member and the end of the connected pipe, holds the conductive member, and is meltable by heat generated by the conductive member; At least one of the joint member or the retaining member is A coupling device configured so that, when the coupling member, the holding member and the connected pipe are assembled, a gas flow path leading to the outside is formed between the coupling member and the holding member, between the holding member and the connected pipe, or between the coupling member and the connected pipe.

2. the gas flow passage has a first flow passage between the joint member and the holding member, The first flow path is formed to communicate with a space inside the connected pipe or a space outside the connected pipe.

2. The coupling device of claim 1.

3. The first flow path includes a groove formed on a surface of the retaining member or the joint member.

3. The coupling device of claim 2.

4. the gas flow path has a second flow path between the holding member and the connected pipe, The second flow path is formed to communicate with a space inside the connected pipe or a space outside the connected pipe.

2. The coupling device of claim 1.

5. The second flow path includes a groove formed on a surface of the holding member.

5. A coupling device according to claim 4.

6. the gas flow passage has a third flow passage between the joint member and the connected pipe, The third flow path is formed so as to communicate with a space inside the connected pipe or a space outside the connected pipe.

2. The coupling device of claim 1.

7. The third flow path includes a groove formed in a surface of the coupling member.

7. A coupling device according to claim 6.

8. the holding member has a housing portion that houses the conductive member, The housing portion is configured such that, when the conductive member is housed in the housing portion, a first space is formed between an inner wall surface of the housing portion and the conductive member.

2. The coupling device of claim 1.

9. The first space is in communication with the gas flow path.

9. A coupling device according to claim 8.

10. The connecting pipe further includes a pressing member for pressing the end of the connecting pipe from the outside.

2. The coupling device of claim 1.

11. The gas flow passage has a fourth flow passage between the pressing member and the joint member.

11. A coupling device according to claim 10.

12. the coupling member has a connection end portion disposed inside the end portion of the connected pipe, The holding member is configured to be able to be fitted onto the connection end portion.

2. The coupling device of claim 1.

13. a joint member to which an end of the connected pipe is connected; a conductive member interposed between the joint member and the end of the connected pipe and capable of generating heat by electromagnetic induction; A coupling device, wherein the coupling member is configured so that, when the coupling member, the conductive member and the connected pipe are assembled, a gas flow path leading from the coupling member and the connected pipe to the outside is formed.

14. The joint member has an accommodating portion that accommodates the conductive member.

14. A coupling device according to claim 13.

15. The connecting pipe further includes a pressing member for pressing the end of the connecting pipe from the outside.

14. A coupling device according to claim 13.

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