Pipe assembly insulation and vapor barrier

Abstract

To provide a favorable pipe assembly insulation and vapor barrier.SOLUTION: An insulating cover for assemblies including pipe elements, pipe couplings, elbows, Tees and valves also acts as a vapor barrier. Cover portions are joined along a seam which provides a continuous seal between both the cover portions and the pipe elements, the seal extending through channels defined in the cover. The seam includes a furrow into which a sealant is forced when the cover portions are joined around the assembly. The furrow is defined by an asymmetric tongue and groove joint. Canals in the channels in communication with the grooves also receive the sealant to provide the continuous seal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] (Cross - Reference to Related Applications) This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 811,818, filed on Feb. 28, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0002] (Field of the Invention) The present invention relates to insulation for assemblies of pipe elements.

Background Art

[0003] (Background) Covering a pipe network to help insulate it against heat loss and conserve energy and to provide moisture protection when the pipes carry cold water is advantageous. Moisture protection prevents condensate from forming on cold water pipes and reduces or even prevents corrosion of pipe elements.

[0004] Providing insulation for straight pipe runs is relatively simple (when the pipes are of standard sizes), while creating insulation for complex pipe assemblies such as mechanical couplings, valves, elbow fittings, and T - fittings is a more complex task. Such pipe arrangements tend not to be standardized and can have many different sizes, configurations, and types of assemblies. Inadequate insulation, particularly inadequate moisture protection, in assemblies where pipe elements are joined to each other or to fittings or components is a recognized industrial problem. If moisture protection is compromised at one location, cracks can damage the entire pipe system. There is clearly a need for an improved insulation cover that can provide effective moisture protection in assemblies where pipe elements are joined.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] (Summary) The present invention relates to a cover that can be positioned to surround an assembly that incorporates pipe elements. In one exemplary embodiment, the cover comprises a first cover portion that defines a first recess for receiving the assembly. The first cover portion has a first sidewall that defines a first channel and a second sidewall that defines a second channel. The first channel and the second channel communicate with the first recess. The first channel and the second channel receive pipe elements. A second cover portion defines a second recess for receiving the assembly. The second cover portion has a third sidewall that defines a third channel and a fourth sidewall that defines a fourth channel. The third channel and the fourth channel communicate with the second recess. The third channel and the fourth channel also receive pipe elements. A first interface surface is positioned on the first cover portion. The first interface surface surrounds the first recess and the first and second channels. A second interface surface is positioned on the second cover portion. The second interface surface surrounds the second recess and the third and fourth channels. The second interface surface is engageable with the first interface surface to join the first cover portion and the second cover portion to each other so as to surround the assembly. A first canal is positioned within the first sidewall so as to transverse the first channel. A second canal is positioned within the second sidewall so as to transverse the second channel. A third canal is positioned within the third sidewall so as to transverse the third channel. A fourth canal is positioned within the fourth sidewall so as to transverse the fourth channel.

[0006] As an example, at least a first portion of the first interface surface comprises a groove extending therealong. At least a first portion of the second interface surface comprises a ridge extending therefrom. The ridge of the first portion of the second interface surface is received within the groove of the first portion of the first interface surface when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together. In an example embodiment, the groove of the first portion of the first interface surface is in fluid communication with the first canal and the third canal when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together. As a further example, at least a second portion of the first interface surface comprises a ridge extending therefrom. At least a second portion of the second interface surface comprises a groove extending therealong. The ridge of the second portion of the first interface surface is received within the groove of the second portion of the second interface surface when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together. In an example embodiment, the groove of the second portion of the second interface surface is in fluid communication with the second canal and the fourth canal when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together. As a further example, the groove within the first portion of the first interface surface is in fluid communication with the groove within the second portion of the second interface surface when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together. Additionally as an example, the ridge of the first portion of the first interface surface comprises a surface that is angled and oriented with respect to the second interface surface, thereby defining a recess between the first cover portion and the second cover portion. In an example embodiment, the ridge of the second portion of the second interface surface comprises a surface that is angled and oriented with respect to the first interface surface, thereby defining a recess between the first cover portion and the second cover portion.

[0007] In another exemplary embodiment, the first interface surface comprises a first alignment notch and a second alignment notch. The second interface surface comprises a first alignment block and a second alignment block. The first alignment notch and the second alignment notch have a complementary shape with respect to the first alignment block and the second alignment block such that when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together, the first alignment block and the second alignment block are interlocked with the first alignment notch and the second alignment notch. In a further example, the first interface surface comprises a third alignment block and a fourth alignment block. The second interface surface comprises a third alignment notch and a fourth alignment notch. The third alignment notch and the fourth alignment notch have a complementary shape with respect to the third alignment block and the fourth alignment block such that when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together, the third alignment block and the fourth alignment block are interlocked with the third alignment notch and the fourth alignment notch. In a specific exemplary embodiment, the alignment block and the alignment notch are in a step shape.

[0008] One exemplary embodiment further includes a seal positioned within the canal and within the recess. In this example, the seal completely surrounds the first recess and the second recess. One example may further include an opening within the first cover portion and the second cover portion. The opening is located along the first interface and the second interface. A fifth canal on the first interface extends along the opening, and a sixth canal extends along the second cover portion. The canals are in fluid communication with the recess and receive the seal. In one exemplary embodiment, the seal is selected from the group consisting essentially of a continuous gasket, extruded cork, rope cork, and combinations thereof. As a further example, the first cover portion and the second cover portion include a foam layer. In a specific exemplary embodiment, the foam layer has a thermal resistance of at least R = 5 per inch of thickness. In a further example, the foam layer includes polyisocyanurate. One example of a cover may further include a polyvinylidene chloride coating over the foam layer. As a further example, the cover includes an outer coating surrounding the foam layer. By way of example, the outer coating is selected from the group consisting essentially of polyureas, polyvinyl chlorides, polyvinylidene chlorides, and combinations thereof. In a further example, the foam layer and the outer coating achieve a rating lower than 25 / 50 through the ASTM E84 test standard for flame spread and smoke.

[0009] The present invention further includes a cover that can be positioned to surround an assembly that joins a first pipe element and a second pipe element together. By way of example, the cover includes a first cover portion that defines a first recess for receiving the assembly. The first cover portion defines a first channel and a second channel for receiving the first pipe element. The first channel and the second channel communicate with the first recess. The second cover portion defines a second recess for receiving the assembly. The second cover portion defines a third channel and a fourth channel for receiving the second pipe element. The third channel and the fourth channel communicate with the second recess. The first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together at a seam to surround the assembly and the pipe elements. The seam includes a depression that faces outwardly away from the first recess and the second recess.

[0010] In one example embodiment, the depression has an asymmetric cross-sectional shape. As a further example, a seal is positioned within the depression. One example embodiment further includes a first canal positioned within the first channel and in fluid communication with the depression. A second canal is positioned within the second channel and in fluid communication with the depression. A third canal is positioned within the third channel and in fluid communication with the depression. A fourth canal is positioned within the fourth channel and in fluid communication with the depression. In one specific example embodiment, each of the canals has an asymmetric cross-sectional shape. As a further example, each of the canals faces outwardly away from the first recess and the second recess.

[0011] One exemplary embodiment further includes a seal positioned within the canal and within the recess. In this example, the seal completely surrounds the first recess and the second recess. As a further example, the seal is selected from the group consisting essentially of a continuous gasket, extruded cork, rope cork, and combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, the first cover portion and the second cover portion include a foam layer. As a further example, the foam layer has a thermal resistance of at least R = 5 per inch of thickness. In one exemplary embodiment, the foam layer includes polyisocyanurate. In one exemplary embodiment, a polyvinylidene chloride coating is on the foam layer. One exemplary cover embodiment may further include an outer coating surrounding the foam layer. As an example, the outer coating is selected from the group consisting essentially of polyureas, polyvinyl chlorides, polyvinylidene chlorides, and combinations thereof. As a further example, the foam layer and the outer coating achieve a rating lower than 25 / 50 through the ASTM E84 test standard for flame spread and smoke.

[0012] One exemplary cover embodiment further includes an opening within at least one of the cover portions. The opening is located along the seam and interrupts the recess. The canal extends along the opening. The canal is in fluid communication with the recess and receives the seal.

[0013] In one example embodiment, the first cover portion defines a first opening portion located along the seam. The second cover portion defines a second opening portion located along the seam. The first opening portion and the second opening portion are aligned to form an opening within the cover. The first canal surrounds the first opening portion and is in fluid communication with the recess. The second canal surrounds the second opening portion and is in fluid communication with the recess. In this example, the seal is received within the first canal and the second canal. As a further example, at least a portion of the seam is defined by a ridge extending from the first cover portion. The ridge is received within a groove positioned within the second cover portion. In one example embodiment, the recess is defined by a first surface over at least one of the first cover portion and the second cover portion, and the first surface is angled and oriented with respect to a second surface over the other of the first cover portion and the second cover portion. The first surface and the second surface are in a facing relationship. In one example embodiment, the first surface is positioned over the first cover portion adjacent to the ridge. As a further example, the first channel and the third channel surround the first bore. The second channel and the fourth channel surround the second bore. In this example, the first bore and the second bore are aligned with each other.

[0014] The present invention also encompasses a cover in combination with an assembly including a first pipe element and a second pipe element. In one example embodiment, the assembly comprises a coupling that joins the pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship. In one example embodiment of the assembly and in combination with the first pipe element and the second pipe element, the assembly comprises a valve. The first pipe coupling attaches the first pipe element to the valve. The second pipe coupling attaches the second pipe element to the valve.

[0015] In another exemplary embodiment, the first channel and the third channel surround the first bore. The second channel and the fourth channel surround the second bore. In this example, the first bore and the second bore are not aligned with each other.

[0016] In an example assembly and cover combination including a first pipe element and a second pipe element, the assembly comprises an elbow fitting. A first coupling joins the first pipe element to the elbow fitting. A second coupling joins the second pipe element to the elbow fitting.

[0017] An exemplary cover according to the present invention is used to further join a first pipe element and a second pipe element to a third pipe element. In an exemplary embodiment, a first cover portion defines a fifth channel for receiving the third pipe element. The fifth channel communicates with a first recess. A second cover portion defines a sixth channel for receiving the third pipe element. The sixth channel communicates with a second recess. In this example, the fifth channel and the sixth channel surround a third bore. The third bore is not aligned with the first bore and the second bore.

[0018] Another exemplary combination comprises a T-fitting. A first coupling joins the first pipe element to the T-fitting. A second coupling joins the second pipe element to the T-fitting. In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a third coupling joins a third pipe element to the T-fitting.

[0019] This specification also provides, for example, the following items. (Item 1) A cover positionable to surround an assembly joining pipe elements, the cover comprising A first cover portion that defines a first recess for receiving the assembly, the first cover portion having a first sidewall that defines a first channel and a second sidewall that defines a second channel, the first channel and the second channel communicating with the first recess, the first channel and the second channel being for receiving the pipe element, the first cover portion, A second cover portion that defines a second recess for receiving the assembly, the second cover portion having a third sidewall that defines a third channel and a fourth sidewall that defines a fourth channel, the third channel and the fourth channel communicating with the second recess, the third channel and the fourth channel being for receiving the pipe element, the second cover portion, A first interface surface positioned on the first cover portion, the first interface surface surrounding the first recess and the first channel and the second channel, the first interface surface, A second interface surface positioned on the second cover portion, the second interface surface surrounding the second recess and the third channel and the fourth channel, the second interface surface being engageable with the first interface surface for joining the first cover portion and the second cover portion to each other so as to surround the assembly, the second interface surface, A first canal positioned within the first sidewall so as to transverse the first channel, A second canal positioned within the second sidewall so as to transverse the second channel, A third canal positioned within the third sidewall so as to transverse the third channel, A fourth canal positioned within the fourth sidewall so as to transverse the fourth channel Comprising a cover. (Item 2) At least a first portion of the first interface surface comprises a groove extending along it, At least a first portion of the second interface surface comprises a ridge extending therefrom, and the ridge of the first portion of the second interface surface is received within the groove of the first portion of the first interface surface when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined to each other. The cover according to item 1. (Item 3) The groove of the first portion of the first interface surface is in fluid communication with the first canal and the third canal when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined to each other. The cover according to item 2. (Item 4) At least a second portion of the first interface surface comprises a ridge extending therefrom. At least a second portion of the second interface surface comprises a groove extending therealong, and the ridge of the second portion of the first interface surface is received within the groove of the second portion of the second interface surface when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined to each other. The cover according to item 2. (Item 5) The groove of the second portion of the second interface surface is in fluid communication with the second canal and the fourth canal when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined to each other. The cover according to item 4. (Item 6) The groove within the first portion of the first interface surface is in fluid communication with the groove within the second portion of the second interface surface when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are engaged with each other. The cover according to item 4. (Item 7) The ridge of the first portion of the first interface surface comprises a surface, and the surface is angled and oriented with respect to the second interface surface, thereby defining a recess between the first cover portion and the second cover portion. The cover according to item 2. (Item 8) The protrusion of the second portion of the second boundary surface has a surface, and the surface is oriented at an angle with respect to the first boundary surface, thereby defining a recess between the first cover portion and the second cover portion. The cover according to item 3. (Item 9) The first boundary surface includes a first alignment notch and a second alignment notch. The second boundary surface includes a first alignment block and a second alignment block. The first alignment notch and the second alignment notch have a complementary shape with respect to the first alignment block and the second alignment block such that when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together, the first alignment block and the second alignment block interlock with the first alignment notch and the second alignment notch. The cover according to item 1. (Item 10) The first boundary surface includes a third alignment block and a fourth alignment block. The second boundary surface includes a third alignment notch and a fourth alignment notch. The third alignment notch and the fourth alignment notch have a complementary shape with respect to the third alignment block and the fourth alignment block such that when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together, the third alignment block and the fourth alignment block interlock with the third alignment notch and the fourth alignment notch. The cover according to item 9. (Item 11) The alignment block and the alignment notch of the cover according to item 10 are in a stepped shape. (Item 12) The cover according to item 7 further includes a seal positioned within the canal and within the recess, and the seal completely surrounds the first recess and the second recess. (Item 13) The cover according to item 12, further comprising openings within the first cover portion and the second cover portion, the openings being located along the first interface and the second interface, a fifth canal on the first cover portion extending along the openings, a sixth canal extending along the second cover portion, the canals being in fluid communication with the recess and receiving the seal. (Item 14) The cover according to item 12, wherein the seal is selected from the group consisting essentially of a continuous gasket, extruded cork, rope cork, and combinations thereof. (Item 15) The cover according to item 1, wherein the first cover portion and the second cover portion comprise a foam layer. (Item 16) The cover according to item 15, wherein the foam layer has a thermal resistance of at least R = 5 per inch of thickness. (Item 17) The cover according to item 15, wherein the foam layer contains polyisocyanurate. (Item 18) The cover according to item 15, further comprising a coating of polyvinylidene chloride on the foam layer. (Item 19) The cover according to item 15, further comprising an outer coating surrounding the foam layer. (Item 20) The cover according to item 19, wherein the outer coating is selected from the group consisting essentially of polyureas, polyvinyl chlorides, polyvinylidene chlorides, and combinations thereof. (Item 21) The cover according to item 19, wherein the foam layer and the outer coating achieve a rating lower than 25 / 50 through the ASTM E84 test standard for flame spread and smoke. (Item 22) A cover positionable to surround an assembly joining a first pipe element and a second pipe element to each other, the cover comprising A first cover portion defining a first recess for receiving the assembly, the first cover portion defining a first channel and a second channel for receiving the first pipe element, the first channel and the second channel being in communication with the first recess, the first cover portion and A second cover portion defining a second recess for receiving the assembly, the second cover portion defining a third channel and a fourth channel for receiving the second pipe element, the third channel and the fourth channel being in communication with the second recess, the second cover portion and comprising The first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined to each other so as to surround the assembly and the pipe element at the joint, the joint having a recess facing outwardly away from the first recess and the second recess. Cover. (Item 23) The cover according to item 22, wherein the recess has an asymmetric cross-sectional shape. (Item 24) The cover according to item 22, further comprising a seal positioned within the recess. (Item 25) A first canal positioned within the first channel and in fluid communication with the recess, and A second canal positioned within the second channel and in fluid communication with the recess, and A third canal positioned within the third channel and in fluid communication with the recess, and A fourth canal positioned within the fourth channel and in fluid communication with the recess The cover according to item 22, further comprising. (Item 26) The cover according to item 25, wherein each of the canals has an asymmetric cross-section. (Item 27) The cover according to item 25, wherein each of the canals faces outwardly away from the first recess and the second recess. (Item 28) The cover according to item 25, further comprising a seal positioned within the canal and within the recess, the seal completely surrounding the first recess and the second recess. (Item 29) The cover according to item 28, wherein the seal is selected from the group consisting essentially of a continuous gasket, extruded cork, rope cork, and combinations thereof. (Item 30) The cover according to item 22, wherein the first cover portion and the second cover portion comprise a foam layer. (Item 31) The cover according to item 30, wherein the foam layer has a thermal resistance of at least R = 5 per inch of thickness. (Item 32) The cover according to item 30, wherein the foam layer contains polyisocyanurate. (Item 33) The cover according to item 30, further comprising a coating of polyvinylidene chloride on the foam layer. (Item 34) The cover according to item 30, further comprising an outer coating surrounding the foam layer. (Item 35) The cover according to item 34, wherein the outer coating is selected from the group consisting essentially of polyureas, polyvinyl chlorides, polyvinylidene chlorides, and combinations thereof. (Item 36) The cover according to item 34, wherein the foam layer and the outer coating achieve a rating lower than 25 / 50 through the ASTM E84 test standard for flame spread and smoke. (Item 37) The cover according to item 24, further comprising an opening within at least one of the cover portions, the opening being located along the seam, interrupting the recess, the canal extending along the opening, the canal being in fluid communication with the recess and receiving the seal. (Item 38) The first cover portion defines a first opening portion located along the seam. The second cover portion defines a second opening portion located along the seam, and the first opening portion and the second opening portion are aligned to form an opening within the cover. The first canal surrounds the first opening portion and is in fluid communication with the recess. The second canal surrounds the second opening portion and is in fluid communication with the recess. The seal is received within the first canal and the second canal. The cover according to item 24. (Item 39) The cover according to item 22, wherein at least a portion of the seam is defined by a ridge extending from the first cover portion, and the ridge is received within a groove positioned within the second cover portion. (Item 40) The cover according to item 39, wherein the recess is defined by a first surface on one of the first cover portion and the second cover portion, the first surface is angled and directed with respect to a second surface on the other of the first cover portion and the second cover portion, and the first surface and the second surface are in a facing relationship. (Item 41) The cover according to item 40, wherein the first surface is positioned on the first cover portion in proximity to the ridge. (Item 42) The cover according to item 22, wherein the first channel and the third channel surround a first bore, the second channel and the fourth channel surround a second bore, and the first bore and the second bore are aligned with each other. (Item 43) In the combination of the assembly and the first pipe element and the second pipe element, the assembly comprises a coupling that joins the pipe elements in an end-to-end relationship, according to item 42. (Item 44) In the combination of the assembly and the first pipe element and the second pipe element, the assembly is a valve, a first pipe coupling for attaching the first pipe element to the valve, a second pipe coupling for attaching the second pipe element to the valve and the cover according to item 42. (Item 45) In the cover according to item 22, the first channel and the third channel surround a first bore, the second channel and the fourth channel surround a second bore, and the first bore and the second bore are not aligned with each other. (Item 46) In the combination of the cover according to item 45 and the assembly and the first pipe element and the second pipe element, the assembly comprises an elbow fitting, a first coupling for joining the first pipe element to the elbow fitting, a second coupling for joining the second pipe element to the elbow fitting and the combination. (Item 47) The cover according to item 42 for further joining the first pipe element and the second pipe element to a third pipe element, wherein the first cover portion defines a fifth channel for receiving the third pipe element, the fifth channel communicating with the first recess, the second cover portion defines a sixth channel for receiving the third pipe element, the sixth channel communicating with the second recess, the fifth channel and the sixth channel surround a third bore, and the third bore is not aligned with the first bore and the second bore, a cover. (Item 48) In the combination of the cover according to item 47 and the assembly and the first pipe element, the second pipe element and the third pipe element, the assembly comprises A T-shaped fitting, and a first coupling for joining the first pipe element to the T-shaped fitting, a second coupling for joining the second pipe element to the T-shaped fitting, and a third coupling for joining the third pipe element to the T-shaped fitting comprising a combination.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0020] (Brief Description of the Drawings)

Figure 1

[0021]

Figure 2

[0022]

Figure 3

Figure 4

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Figure 5

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Figure 6

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Figure 7

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Figure 8

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Figure 9

[0028]

Figure 10

[0029]

Figure 11

[0030]

Figure 12

[0031]

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Figure 14

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Figure 15

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Figure 16

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Figure 17

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Figure 18

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] (Detailed Description) FIGS. 1 and 2 show an exemplary cover 10 for insulating an assembly 12 that joins pipe elements 14. By way of example, assembly 12 includes a grooved elbow fitting 16 and two mechanical couplings 18. The cover may also be employed to insulate other types of assemblies including straight connectors, T-fittings and valves, and single mechanical couplings for flanges, threaded or welded fittings and the like. In the exemplary embodiment, cover 10 includes a foam layer 20 made of a material such as polyisocyanurate having a high insulation (“R”) value of R = 5 or greater per inch of thickness. Foam layer 20 may have an outer coating 22 that provides low permeability moisture resistance, mechanical durability and weather resistance. Outer coating 22 is preferably polyurethane, and it is desirable that foam layer 20 and coating 22 achieve a rating lower than 25 / 50 through the ASTM E84 test standards for flame spread and developed smoke, respectively. Outer coating 22 may also be provided by a shell of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). To provide further resistance to permeability, an auxiliary coating of polyvinylidene chloride may also be applied either to outer coating 22 or to foam layer 20 prior to the application of outer coating 22. In addition to insulating assembly 12 and pipe element 14 to prevent energy loss, cover 10 is also expected to provide moisture resistance, for example, to prevent condensate from forming when the pipe element carries cold water in a wet environment.

[0038] An exemplary cover 10 in accordance with the present invention includes a first cover portion 24 and a second cover portion 26. As shown in FIG. 3, the first cover portion 24 defines a first recess 28 for receiving the assembly 12. The first recess 28 is advantageously designed to have a sufficient volume so as to accommodate known variations of the assembly, such as rotation of the coupling 18 about the axis of the pipe (FIG. 2) to which the coupling 18 is connected, in this example. The first cover portion 24 also has a first side wall 30 that defines a first channel 32 and a second side wall 34 that defines a second channel 36. Both the first channel 32 and the second channel 36 communicate with the first recess 28 and receive the pipe element 14. As shown in FIG. 4, the second cover portion 26 defines a second recess 38 for receiving the assembly 12, as well as a third side wall 40 that defines a third channel 42 and a fourth side wall 44 that defines a fourth channel 46 for receiving the pipe element 14. The third channel 42 and the fourth channel 46 communicate with the second recess 38, and the second recess, as well as the third and fourth channels, are mirror images of the first recess and the first and second channels, respectively, allowing the first cover portion 24 and the second cover portion 26 to cooperate to surround and insulate the assembly 12 and the portion of the pipe element 14 included in the assembly, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0039] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first interface surface 48 is positioned on the first cover portion 24. The first interface surface 48 surrounds the first recess 38 as well as the first channel 32 and the second channel 36. As shown in FIG. 4, the second cover portion 26 has a second interface surface 50 that is a mirror image of the first interface surface 48. The second interface surface 50 surrounds the second recess 38 as well as the third channel 42 and the fourth channel 46. The first interface surface 48 and the second interface surface 50 are contact surfaces at which the first cover portion 24 and the second cover portion 26 are joined to surround the assembly 12. As shown in FIG. 3, the first canal 52 is positioned within the first side wall 30 and is oriented to traverse the first channel 32. The second canal 54 is positioned within the second side wall 34 and is oriented to traverse the second channel 36. As shown in FIG. 4, the third canal 56 is positioned within the third side wall 40 of the second cover portion 26, and the fourth canal 58 is positioned within the fourth side wall 44 of the second cover portion 26. Similar to the first canal 52 and the second canal 54, the third canal 56 and the fourth canal 58 are oriented to traverse the third channel and the fourth channel (42 and 46, respectively) of the second cover portion 26.

[0040] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of the cover 10 taken in a direction perpendicular to the first interface 48 and the second interface 50 along line 5-5 of FIG. 1, thereby showing a first canal 52 in a first channel 32 of the first cover portion 24 and a third canal 56 in a third channel 42 of the second cover portion 26. The first canal 52 and the third canal 56 circumferentially surround the pipe element 14 and provide a region for a seal to reside and completely seal the contact between the first channel 32 and the third channel 42 and the pipe element 14. The configuration of the second canal 54 and the fourth canal 58 is similar for sealing the contact between the pipe element 14 and the second channel 36 of the first cover portion and the fourth channel 46 of the second cover portion (not shown). Since moisture ingress often occurs at the contact between the insulation layer and the pipe element, using canals to seal the pipe element 14 is expected to provide a significant advantage over prior art insulation systems.

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, it is advantageous to use an array of ridges and grooves to join the first cover portion 24 and the second cover portion 26. In the exemplary embodiment, the cover portions are advantageously designed to eliminate the need for distinct “male” and “female” counterparts. The first interface surface 48 of the cover portion 24 and the second interface surface 50 of the cover portion 26 are inverted mirror images of each other. For this purpose, at least a first portion 60 of the first interface surface 48 of the first cover portion 24 comprises a groove 62 extending along it. This groove 62 receives a ridge 64 extending along a first portion 66 of the second interface surface 50 of the second cover portion 26. Further, the groove 62 in the first portion 60 of the first interface surface 48 of the first cover portion 24 is in fluid communication with the first canal 52 of the first channel 32 and the third canal 56 of the third channel 42 of the second cover portion 26, thereby providing a region continuous with the groove 62 where a seal can reside to seal between the pipe element 14 and the channels 32 and 42. Consistent with the genderless design of the cover 10, at least a second portion 68 of the first interface surface 48 of the first cover portion 24 comprises a ridge 70 extending therefrom. The ridge 70 is received within a mating groove 72 within a second portion 74 of the second interface surface 50 of the second cover portion 26. Further, the groove 72 is in fluid communication with the second canal 54 of the second channel 36 and the fourth canal 58 of the fourth channel 46, thus providing a region continuous with the groove 72 where a seal can reside to seal between the pipe element 14 and the second channel 36 and the fourth channel 46. When the cover portion 24 and the cover portion 26 are assembled, the groove 62 in the first portion 60 of the first interface surface 48 of the first cover portion 24 is in fluid communication with the groove 72 in the second portion 74 of the second interface surface 50 of the second cover portion 26. The grooves 62 and 72 in the various portions of the first and second cover portions combine to form a continuous three-dimensional boundary 76 in fluid communication, which is outlined in dashed lines in FIG. 6 and appears to continuously cross the contact portions of the ridges and grooves between the first cover portion 24 and the second cover portion 26, as well as the canals 52, 54, 56, and 58 (canals 52 and 56 are visible) surrounding the pipe element.Accordingly, the combination of grooves and canals allows the entire cover 10 to be completely sealed by a seal, which is preferably seamless and extends between the cover portion 24 and the cover portion 26 and between the cover portion and the pipe element 14, isolating the recesses 28 and 30 and the assembly 12 therein from the environment outside the heat insulating cover.

[0042] Figure 7 shows an example of a seal 78 received within grooves and canals that form a three-dimensional boundary 76. The seal 78 can include an extruded sealant such as cork, which is applied directly to the grooves and canals prior to assembling the cover portions 24 and 26 together for the assembly 12. In another embodiment, the seal 78 can be formed from a rope cork laid within the grooves and canals of the cover portions. In a further embodiment, the seal 78 can be a continuous or partially continuous gasket applied to the grooves and canals of one or the other cover portion or both cover portions in whole or in part prior to assembly. Throughout the assembly of the various embodiments of the seal with the cover portions, the joint of the ridges and grooves between the cover portions is designed to force the seal onto the outer surface of the cover 10 as described below.

[0043] Figures 8 and 8A show in detail the cross-sections of exemplary ridges 64 and grooves 62 (ridges 70 and grooves 72 may be similar). In this example, ridge 64 is asymmetric and has a undulating surface 80 that is angled and oriented with respect to the second interface surface 50 of the second cover portion 26. Ridge 64 further has a working surface 82 that is similarly angled and oriented with respect to the second interface surface 50 of the second cover portion 26. Ridge 64 engages with groove 62 at the first portion 60 of the first interface surface 48 of the first cover portion 24 (see FIG. 3). In this example, groove 62 is also asymmetric and has a rear wall 84 configured to join with the working surface 82 of ridge 64. Groove 62 further has a trough 86 that extends to the first interface surface 48 and is positioned adjacent to the rear wall 84. The engagement between groove 62 and ridge 64 is at a seam 88 that has a recess 90 between the first cover portion 24 and the second cover portion 26. Due to the asymmetry of groove 62 and ridge 64, recess 90 has an asymmetric cross-sectional shape and faces outwardly away from channels 32, 36, 42 and 46 (32 and 42 are shown) as well as recesses 28 and 30. By opening outwardly, recess 90 provides a visual cue to the user suggesting that it is intended to receive a seal. As shown in FIG. 9, recess 90 is present where the ridge and groove meet and, when groove 62 is engaged by ridge 64, recess 90 appears within the recess 90 when seal 78 (see FIG. 7) is forced outside of groove 62. Thus, recess 90 can be used after assembly to provide a visual confirmation that the seam 88 between the cover portions is properly sealed. Through the geometric arrangement of the asymmetric ridges 64 and grooves 62 as shown in FIG. 8, particularly the engagement of the working surface 82 with the rear wall 84 in the presence of the adjacent trough 86 and undulating surface 80, the seal is preferentially forced outwardly into recess 90 rather than inwardly between the interface surfaces 48 and 50 of cover portions 22 and 24. This geometric arrangement is created by ensuring that, during assembly, when ridge 64 is engaged with groove 62, recess 90 represents the "path of least resistance" for the flow of the seal.In this embodiment, the seal disposed within the groove 62 faces a resistance to flow outwardly into the recess 90 that is less than the resistance to flow inwardly between the interface surfaces 48 and 50 beyond the rear wall 84. Since the curing of commonly available sealing materials requires exposure to atmospheric moisture or oxygen, this preferential outward flow of the seal 78 promotes more rapid and complete curing by preferentially moving the material outwardly into the recess 90. The volume defined by the recess 90 is also advantageously sized to accommodate a bead of a conventional size of sealant (a bead 1 / 8” to about 3 / 8” in diameter is conventional) while limiting the likelihood (considered undesirable) that the seal 78 extends beyond the volume defined by the recess 90 while still providing a visual confirmation of a proper seal between the cover portion 24 and the cover portion 26. The flow of the seal 78 can be the same as that described above with respect to its engagement with the groove 72 of the ridge 70, and the fact that the grooves 62 and 72 are in fluid communication provides a visible and continuous seal within a continuous recess 90 extending between the cover portion 24 and the cover portion 26 along the entire seam 88.

[0044] In addition to the ridges and grooves, the rabbet joint may also be used between the first cover portion 22 and the second cover portion 24 at the seam 88. As shown in FIG. 3, an alignment block 92 is positioned adjacent the second channel 36 and a notch 94 is positioned adjacent the first channel 32 within the first cover portion 24 to ensure proper alignment of the cover portions 24 and 26 when joined. Consistent with the seamless nature of the cover, as shown in FIG. 4, the alignment block 92 is also positioned adjacent the third channel 42 and the notch 94 is positioned adjacent the fourth channel 46 of the second cover portion 26. When the cover portions are joined, the alignment block 92 engages the notch 94 in each cover portion to ensure proper fit. The use of the rabbet joint allows for an interference fit that provides mechanical interlocking of the cover portions when performing an initial assembly with stepped alignment blocks and notches as shown, thereby minimizing the need for additional machining hold during final assembly.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 5, the canals 52, 54, 56 and 58 (52 and 56 are shown) may also be advantageously designed to allow the seal 78 to be forced outwardly towards the surfaces of the cover portions 24 and 26, thereby providing a visible proof of a complete seal of the cover 10 around the assembly 12. The first canal 52 and the third canal 56 are shown as an example having an asymmetric cross-sectional shape and being oriented to face outwardly away from the recesses 28 and 38. This arrangement forces the seal 78 to move outwardly towards the outer surface of the cover when the cover portions 24 and 26 are assembled for the assembly 12. The second canal 54 and the fourth canal 58, although not shown, may be similarly shaped and arranged.

[0046] Figures 1, 3, and 4 illustrate an exemplary cover embodiment 10, where the first channel 32 and the third channel 42 surround the first bore 96, and the second channel 36 and the fourth channel 46 surround the second bore 98. The bores 96 and 98 are not axially aligned with each other, which allows the cover 10 to cover an assembly 12 that includes an elbow fitting 16, a mechanical coupling 18, and a pipe element 14.

[0047] Figures 10 - 12 illustrate another exemplary cover embodiment 100 that includes a first cover portion 102 and a second cover portion 104. The cover portions 102 and 104 have many of the same features as described above for cover portions 24 and 26, and like reference numerals are used to identify like elements. The first bore 96 and the second bore 98 of the cover 100 are axially aligned, which allows the cover 100 to be used with an assembly 106 that includes a mechanical coupling 18 that joins pipe elements 14 in an end - to - end relationship.

[0048] Figures 13 - 15 show another exemplary cover embodiment 108 that is used to cover an assembly that joins a third pipe element 112 to a first pipe element 114 and a second pipe element 116. The first cover portion 118 defines a fifth channel 120 that is in fluid communication with the first recess 28, and the second cover portion 122 defines a sixth channel 124 that is in fluid communication with the second recess 38. When the cover portions 118 and 122 are assembled (Figure 13), they define a third bore 126 that is not aligned with the first bore 96 and the second bore 98. The cover 108 can be used with an assembly 128 (Figure 14) that includes a T - fitting 130 that joins the first pipe element 114, the second pipe element 116, and the third pipe element 112, as well as a first coupling 132, a second coupling 134, and a third coupling 136.

[0049] Figures 16 - 18 show an exemplary cover embodiment 144 for covering an assembly 146 (FIG. 17) comprising a valve 148 coupled to a first pipe element 150 and a second pipe element 152 using mechanical couplings 154 and 156. The cover 144 has an opening 158 in a first cover portion 160 and a second cover portion 162 to accommodate a valve stem 164. As shown in FIG. 18 with respect to the cover portion 160, the opening 158 is located between the cover portions along a seam 88 and interrupts a recess 90 (see also FIG. 16). First and second canals 166 extend along each cover portion and surround the opening 158 in each cover portion (the cover portion 160 is shown). The canals 166 are in fluid communication with the recess 90 and each receives a portion of a continuous seal (see FIG. 7) that provides a seal between the cover portions 160 and 162 and the valve stem 164. Thus, the continuous seal is maintained to isolate the assembly from the surroundings even when the cover according to the invention is pierced by the opening.

[0050] Exemplary cover embodiments disclosed herein are substantially integral when the cover portions are joined, but other embodiments are possible where the cover comprises separate parts that are assembled from the parts and sealed to each other throughout the assembly.

Claims

**Claim 1**: A cover, wherein the cover is a first cover portion defining a first recess, the first cover portion having a first sidewall defining a first channel and a second sidewall defining a second channel, the first channel and the second channel communicating with the first recess, the first channel being for receiving a first pipe element, the second channel being for receiving a second pipe element, the first pipe element surrounding a first central axis, and a first cover portion is a second cover portion defining a second recess, the second cover portion having a third sidewall defining a third channel and a fourth sidewall defining a fourth channel, the third channel and the fourth channel communicating with the second recess, the third channel being for receiving the first pipe element, the fourth channel being for receiving the second pipe element, and a second cover portion is a first interface surface positioned on the first cover portion, the first interface surface extending outwardly from the first recess and the first channel and the second channel, and a first interface surface is a second interface surface positioned on the second cover portion, the second interface surface extending outwardly from the second recess and the third channel and the fourth channel, the second interface surface being engageable with the first interface surface at a joint extending along the boundary of the first interface surface and the second interface surface for joining the first cover portion and the second cover portion to each other, and a second interface surface comprising When the first interface surface and the second interface surface engage, the first recess and the second recess cooperate to define a receiving space configured to receive an assembly for joining the first pipe element and the second pipe element, the assembly comprising a first component, the first component surrounding the first central axis and being rotationally asymmetric about the first central axis, the receiving space comprising a first portion shaped to accommodate the first component independently of the rotational direction of the first component about the first central axis. Cover.

2. The cover according to claim 1, wherein the first component is a first pipe coupling.

3. The first interface surface comprises a first alignment notch and a second alignment notch, the second interface surface comprises a first alignment block and a second alignment block, and the first alignment notch and the second alignment notch have a complementary shape with respect to the first alignment block and the second alignment block such that when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined to each other, the first alignment block and the second alignment block are interlocked with the first alignment notch and the second alignment notch. The cover according to claim 2.

4. The first interface surface comprises a third alignment block and a fourth alignment block, the second interface surface comprises a third alignment notch and a fourth alignment notch, and the third alignment notch and the fourth alignment notch have a complementary shape with respect to the third alignment block and the fourth alignment block such that when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined to each other, the third alignment block and the fourth alignment block are interlocked with the third alignment notch and the fourth alignment notch. The cover according to claim 3.

5. The cover according to claim 4, wherein the alignment block and the alignment notch are in a stepped shape.

6. The cover according to claim 3, further comprising a seal that can be positioned within the joint.

7. The cover according to claim 6, wherein the seal extends continuously between the first cover portion and the second cover portion and between the first cover portion and the second cover portion and the first pipe element and the second pipe element.

8. The cover according to claim 6, wherein the joint comprises a seam with a recess facing outwardly away from the first recess and the second recess.

9. The cover according to claim 8, wherein the seal can be positioned within the recess.

10. The cover according to claim 1, further comprising a seal that can be positioned within the joint. **Claim 11**: The seal according to claim 10, extending seamlessly between the first cover portion and the second cover portion and between the first cover portion and the second cover portion and the first pipe element and the second pipe element. **Claim 12** A first canal positioned within the first sidewall so as to transverse the first channel; A second canal positioned within the second sidewall so as to transverse the second channel; A third canal positioned within the third sidewall so as to transverse the third channel; A fourth canal positioned within the fourth sidewall so as to transverse the fourth channel The cover according to claim 10, further comprising. **Claim 13** At least a first portion of the first interface surface comprises a groove extending therealong; At least a first portion of the second interface surface comprises a ridge extending therefrom, the ridge of the first portion of the second interface surface being received within the groove of the first portion of the first interface surface when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together; The cover according to claim 12. **Claim 14** The groove of the first portion of the first interface surface communicates with the first canal and the third canal when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together, the cover according to claim 13. **Claim 15** At least a second portion of the first interface surface comprises a ridge extending therefrom; At least a second portion of the second interface surface comprises a groove extending therealong, the ridge of the second portion of the first interface surface being received within the groove of the second portion of the second interface surface when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together; The cover according to claim 13. **Claim 16** The groove of the second portion of the second interface surface communicates with the second canal and the fourth canal when the first cover portion and the second cover portion are joined together, the cover according to claim 15. **Claim 17**: The joint of the cover according to claim 10 comprises a seam with a recess facing outwardly away from the first recess and the second recess. **Claim 18**: The seal according to claim 17 is positionable within the recess.

19. a first canal positioned within the first channel and communicating with the recess; a second canal positioned within the second channel and communicating with the recess; a third canal positioned within the third channel and communicating with the recess; a fourth canal positioned within the fourth channel and communicating with the recess The cover according to claim 17, further comprising.

20. The cover according to claim 19, wherein each of the canals faces outwardly away from the first recess and the second recess.

21. The seal is positionable within the canals and within the recess, and the seal extends continuously between the first cover portion and the second cover portion and between the first cover portion and the second cover portion and the first pipe element and the second pipe element. The cover according to claim 19.

22. The first channel and the third channel form a first bore for receiving the first pipe element, the second channel and the fourth channel form a second bore for receiving the second pipe element, and the first bore and the second bore are aligned with each other. The cover according to claim 1.

23. In the combination of the cover according to claim 22, the assembly, and the first pipe element and the second pipe element, the second pipe element surrounds a second central axis, the assembly further comprises a valve and a second component, the second component surrounds the second central axis and is rotationally asymmetric about the second central axis, the receiving space further comprises a second portion shaped to accommodate the second component independently of the rotational direction of the second component about the second central axis, the first component of the assembly is a first pipe coupling that attaches the first pipe element to the valve, the second component of the assembly is a second pipe coupling that attaches the second pipe element to the valve, combination.

24. The cover according to claim 22 for further joining the first pipe element and the second pipe element to a third pipe element, The first cover portion defines a fifth channel for receiving the third pipe element, and the fifth channel communicates with the first recess. The second cover portion defines a sixth channel for receiving the third pipe element, and the sixth channel communicates with the second recess. The fifth channel and the sixth channel form a third bore for receiving the third pipe element, and the third bore is not aligned with the first bore and the second bore. Cover.

25. In the combination of the cover according to claim 24, the assembly, and the first pipe element, the second pipe element, and the third pipe element, The second pipe element surrounds a second central axis. The third pipe element surrounds a third central axis. The assembly further comprises a T-shaped fitting, a second component, and a third component. The second component surrounds the second central axis and is rotationally asymmetric about the second central axis. The third component surrounds the third central axis and is rotationally asymmetric about the third central axis. The receiving space further comprises a second portion shaped to adapt to the second component independently of the rotational direction of the second component about the second central axis, and a third portion shaped to adapt to the third component independently of the rotational direction of the third component about the third central axis. The first component of the assembly is a first pipe coupling that attaches the first pipe element to the T-shaped fitting. The second component of the assembly is a second pipe coupling that attaches the second pipe element to the T-shaped fitting. The third component of the assembly is a third pipe coupling that attaches the third pipe element to the T-shaped fitting. Combination.

26. The first channel and the third channel form a first bore for receiving the first pipe element, the second channel and the fourth channel form a second bore for receiving the second pipe element, and the first bore and the second bore are not aligned with each other. The cover according to claim 1.

27. In the combination of the cover according to claim 26, the assembly, and the first and second pipe elements, the second pipe element surrounds a second central axis, the assembly further comprises an elbow fitting and a second component, the second component surrounds the second central axis and is rotationally asymmetric about the second central axis, the receiving space further comprises a second portion shaped to adapt to the second component independently of the rotational direction of the second component about the second central axis, the first component of the assembly is a first pipe coupling that attaches the first pipe element to the elbow fitting, the second component of the assembly is a second pipe coupling that attaches the second pipe element to the elbow fitting, combination.

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