Pipe clamping device

Abstract

A pipe clamping device for preventing fluid leakage from a pipe is provided. The pipe clamping device includes a first jacket member (12) and a second jacket member (14) connected by a hinge (16). The first jacket member (12) and the second jacket member (14) are adapted to be mounted on a surface of a pipe (24) to define a sealed cavity (40) between the first jacket member (12), the second jacket member (14) and the surface of the pipe when the pipe clamping device is in a fully closed position. A clamping assembly is operable to hold the first jacket member (12) and the second jacket member (14) in sealing engagement with the pipe (24), thereby sealing the sealed cavity (40) and preventing fluid ingress between the jacket members and the pipe. The first and second jacket members (12, 14) each include interengaging sealing surfaces adapted to provide a fluid seal between the first and second jacket members (12, 14), at least one of the interengaging sealing surfaces having a first resilient sealing means (72a) secured thereto, and the first and second jacket members (12, 14) each include a pipe sealing surface (22) adapted to provide a fluid seal between the pipe (24) and the first and second jacket members (12, 14), each cylindrical sealing surface having a second resilient sealing means (72b) secured thereto. Each of the first jacket member (12) and the second jacket member (14) includes a partially cylindrical friction surface (23) that is separated from the pipe sealing surface (22) and adapted to provide friction against axial and / or rotational movement of the pipe clamping device relative to the pipe (24). Each of the partially cylindrical friction surfaces (23) has a resilient friction means (68) secured thereto. A second pipe clamping device is also provided for application to a pipe to isolate the pipe by freezing a fluid carried within the pipe. The second pipe clamping device has a set of parts similar to those of the first pipe clamping device.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the repair and maintenance of pipes for transporting fluids, and in particular to clamping pipes to repair leaks or to isolate specific sections of pipe to perform repair or maintenance work. [Background technology]

[0002] Pipes are common components in many systems that transport fluids from one location to another. Such systems include domestic water supply systems, domestic heating systems, vehicle cooling systems, industrial piping systems, and water distribution and service networks. Leaking or burst pipes can cause damage to the system in which they are used and the surrounding environment. For example, a leaking pipe in a heating system can cause a pressure drop and water leak within the system, potentially damaging the boiler. Furthermore, a leaking pipe can allow water from the heating system to cause significant damage to areas of the building adjacent to the leak.

[0003] In systems under pressure (e.g., heating and water supply systems), it is desirable to make repairs quickly to minimize damage caused by burst pipes or leaks. In certain circumstances, it may be desirable to temporarily contain a leak before making permanent repairs. This can reduce inconvenience, containment, and loss of production. When used in water transportation systems, it can reduce water usage.

[0004] WO 2011 / 045608 A1 describes a pipe clamp for use in temporary repairs to pipes in domestic water supply systems or heating systems. The clamp includes a hinged jacket that is placed on the outer surface of the pipe and forms a cavity between the jacket and the pipe. The jacket includes a clamp and a lever that holds the jacket in a sealed relationship with the pipe to form a sealed joint with the pipe. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved clamp that can be used in both domestic and industrial applications.It is a further object of the present invention to provide a clamp that can be applied to pipes in both domestic and industrial applications to isolate sections of pipe or entire pipe systems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] [Pipe repair implementation example] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pipe clamping device for preventing fluid from leaking from a pipe, the pipe clamping device comprising: a first outer jacket member and a second outer jacket member connected by a hinge and adapted to be mounted on a surface of a pipe to define a sealed cavity between the first outer jacket member and the surface of the pipe when the pipe clamping device is in a fully closed position; a clamping assembly that operates to hold the first and second jacket members in sealing engagement with the pipe to seal the enclosed cavity and prevent fluid ingress between the first and second jacket members and the pipe; Equipped with the first jacket member and the second jacket member each include interengaging sealing surfaces adapted to form a fluid-tight seal between the first jacket member and the second jacket member, at least one of the interengaging sealing surfaces having a first sealing groove; each of the first and second jacket members includes a pipe sealing surface adapted to seal against fluid ingress between a surface of the pipe and the first and second jacket members, each of the pipe sealing surfaces having a second sealing groove; Each of the first jacket member and the second jacket member includes a partially cylindrical friction surface adapted to separate from the pipe sealing surface and to provide friction against axial movement of the pipe clamping device relative to the pipe, each of the partially cylindrical friction surfaces having resilient friction means secured thereto. It is characterized by:

[0007] The pipe clamping device may further include a first elastic sealing means provided in the first sealing groove, and a second elastic sealing means provided in the second sealing groove.

[0008] The resilient friction means may have a greater resilient stiffness than the first resilient sealing means and the second resilient sealing means.

[0009] By holding the jacket member in sealing engagement with the pipe, the clamping assembly compresses the interlocking sealing surfaces of the jacket member and the resilient sealing means therebetween. At the same time, the clamping assembly presses the cylindrical sealing surface against the surface of the pipe, thereby providing a liquid-tight seal between the jacket member and the surface of the pipe. The formation of the seal functions to prevent fluid leakage from the pipe, thereby preventing leakage of fluid, such as gas or liquid, from the cavity formed within the pipe clamping device.

[0010] The use of the first and second jacket members allows the pipe clamping device to be fitted around the entire circumference of a damaged or leaking pipe section, which has the advantage of providing a seal around any ruptures, perforations, or cuts that may have occurred around the circumference of the pipe section, or any complete breaks, holes, or cuts in the pipe.

[0011] The elastic friction means serves to securely fasten the pipe clamping device to the pipe, and the elastic sealing means serves to seal against the ingress of liquids. Because these functions are different, different materials can be used. The properties of the elastic friction means can be optimized to minimize movement of the pipe clamping device along the pipe, even when the pipe is subjected to vibrations or other external forces. The properties of the elastic sealing means can be optimized to minimize leakage, without having to select a material that absorbs and resists vibrations or other forces tending to move the pipe clamping device along the pipe.

[0012] The elastic friction means may comprise a metal or ceramic friction means. The elastic friction means may comprise an arc-shaped strip of elastic material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 150, preferably 70 to 100. The strip may be bonded to the outer jacket. The elastic material may be natural or synthetic rubber, rope, resin, metal coil, or a fire-resistant barrier material. The elastic friction means is circumferentially discontinuous in the closed position of the pipe clamping device, allowing fluid to pass between the pipe and the cylindrical friction surface. It has been determined that such a Shore A hardness provides sufficient resistance to prevent the pipe clamping device from moving along the pipe, even when the pipe is subjected to vibration.

[0013] The first and second resilient sealing means may comprise one or more strips of resilient material having a Shore A hardness ranging from 30 to 90, preferably 40 to 80. The first and second resilient sealing means are configured contiguously to provide a continuous fluid-tight seal between the pipe and the pipe clamping device. Such Shore A hardness has been found to provide a sufficient fluid-tight bond even when the sealing means alone cannot withstand severe vibrational motion. The first and second resilient sealing means may comprise one or more resilient seals comprising a material that can withstand the fluids present in the pipe. The first and second resilient sealing means may comprise natural or synthetic rubber, or a foam material.

[0014] The Shore A hardness of the elastic material of the elastic friction means is preferably higher than the hardness of the elastic material of the first elastic sealing means and the second elastic sealing means, so that the elastic friction means has higher rigidity than the first elastic sealing means and the second elastic sealing means, and prevents excessive shear or deformation of the elastic sealing means, which has lower rigidity, while fixing the pipe clamping device, allowing the elastic sealing means to maintain its ability to prevent fluid intrusion and perform its main sealing function.

[0015] At least one of the first and second jacket members can include an exhaust valve that allows fluid to escape from the enclosed cavity. The exhaust valve referred to herein includes any valve used for pressure relief. For example, the pipe clamping device can be used to repair a leak in a pressurized pipe. After the pipe clamping device is installed to seal the enclosed cavity and prevent fluid from entering between the jacket member and the pipe, the exhaust valve can be opened to release pressure in the pipe, check the internal pressure, check or test the contents of the pipe, or safely open and remove the pipe clamping device from the pipe.

[0016] The inner surfaces of the first and second jacket members, which form the outer walls of a cavity, are substantially semi-cylindrical. The diameter of the cylindrical sealing surface is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the pipe. The diameter of the semi-cylindrical inner surface is greater than the outer diameter of the pipe, being at least 1.5 times the diameter of the pipe, or in one embodiment at least 1.8 times the diameter of the pipe.

[0017] The cavity formed between the jacket and the surface of the pipe allows the jacket to be fitted over a leaking or ruptured section of the pipe (such as an external connection, e.g., a connection collar, a joint, a protruding section of the outer wall, an increase in the diameter of the pipe due to expansion or bulging, a corroded section on the outside of the pipe, or a broken welded joint on the pipe). This enclosed cavity thus encapsulates the connection or the protruding or bulging section of the outer wall, giving the pipe clamping device the ability to form a seal to prevent fluid ingress and enhancing its ability to contain leaks.

[0018] [Pipe freezing implementation] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a pipe clamping device for use with a pipe to isolate the pipe by freezing a fluid carried within the pipe, the pipe clamping device comprising: a first outer jacket member and a second outer jacket member connected by a hinge and adapted to be mounted on a surface of a pipe to define a sealed cavity between the first outer jacket member and the surface of the pipe when the pipe clamping device is in a fully closed position; a clamping assembly that operates to hold the first and second jacket members in sealing engagement with the pipe to seal the enclosed cavity and prevent fluid ingress between the first and second jacket members and the pipe; Equipped with one of the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member has an inlet attached to a liquid refrigerant source, the inlet communicating with the sealed cavity; one of the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member has an outlet for removing evaporated liquid refrigerant, the outlet communicating with the sealed cavity; the cavity comprises a heat reflective material and an absorbent material adapted to contain and at least retain liquid refrigerant introduced through the inlet, the absorbent material being located, in use, between the heat reflective material and the pipe; It is characterized by:

[0019] The heat reflective material may be selected from the group consisting of foils and surface coatings.

[0020] The absorbent material allows for the retardation of release and evaporation of liquid refrigerant introduced into the cavity, and is preferably positioned in contact with and / or in intimate engagement with the walls of the pipe, thereby allowing the evaporating liquid refrigerant to more effectively freeze the pipe and its contents.

[0021] The first and second outer jacket members may each have interengaging sealing surfaces that provide a fluid-tight seal between the first and second outer jacket members, and at least one of the interengaging sealing surfaces has the first resilient sealing means secured thereto.

[0022] The first outer sheath member and the second outer sheath member each have a cylindrical sealing surface that forms a seal between the surface of the pipe and the outer sheath member to prevent fluid ingress, and the second elastic sealing means is fixed to each cylindrical sealing surface.

[0023] By holding the jacket member in sealing engagement with the pipe, the clamping assembly compresses the interlocking sealing surfaces of the jacket member and the resilient sealing means therebetween, simultaneously forcing the cylindrical sealing surface against the surface of the pipe to form a fluid-tight seal between the jacket and the surface of the pipe, which serves to contain liquid refrigerant introduced into a cavity formed within the pipe clamping device.

[0024] By using the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member, the pipe clamping device can be completely attached to the entire circumference of the pipe section, even if there are localized protrusions on the outer surface of the pipe.

[0025] The absorbent material may be foam, a sponge-like material, rock wool, or glass wool. The absorbent material may be aluminum foil-backed mineral wool, such as Rockwool®. If the absorbent material is aluminum foil-backed, the aluminum foil is preferably positioned adjacent to the jacket member, so that the absorbent material is adjacent to and in close engagement with the pipe during use. This allows for the liquid refrigerant to be held next to the pipe and slowly released, cooling the pipe as quickly as possible and maintaining the lowest possible temperature, while also allowing for efficient use of the liquid refrigerant and reducing waste.

[0026] The heat reflective material may be a high thermal performance reflective film, low temperature foil, low temperature paper, low temperature foil / paper composite, aluminum foil, or similar material. Suitable heat reflective foils include Reflectashield® manufactured by Proctor Group. An alternative heat reflective material that can be used is ArmaGel® DT, an aerogel insulation product manufactured by Armacell. In use, the heat reflective material may be disposed on the interior wall of the outer jacket member.

[0027] The first and second jacket members each have an inlet for connection to a source of liquid refrigerant, each inlet communicating with the enclosed cavity, and each inlet is provided with an inlet closure device that can be selectively opened, thereby allowing an operator to select which inlet to connect to the source of liquid refrigerant if one of the inlets is difficult to access during use.

[0028] The first and second jacket members each include an outlet for discharge of liquid refrigerant, the outlets communicating with the enclosed cavity, and each outlet is provided with an outlet closing device that can be selectively opened, thereby allowing an operator to select one of the outlets for connection to an outlet pipe if either outlet is difficult to access during use.

[0029] The heat-reflecting foil is fixed to the inner surfaces of the first and second outer jacket members, and has openings corresponding to one or more intake ports and one or more exhaust ports.

[0030] The absorbent material is fixed to the inner surface of the heat reflecting foil, has openings corresponding to one or more intake ports, and extends across and at least partially covers one or more exhaust ports.

[0031] The inner surfaces of the first and second jacket members may be provided with localized protrusions (such as pins or dowels) that at least partially surround each outlet. The purpose of these protrusions is to provide clearance between the absorbent material and the outlets, preventing the absorbent material from blocking the outlets. This is particularly necessary when the absorbent material is a foil-backed mineral wool, as the foil backing may otherwise block the outlets. Alternatively, ribbed or textured foils may be used that provide clearance for gas or fluid evacuation.

[0032] Preferably, the liquid refrigerant is a liquid gas with a boiling point temperature below -70° C., preferably below -150° C. A suitable liquid refrigerant is liquid nitrogen. Liquid carbon dioxide may also be used.

[0033] The first and second resilient sealing means comprise a cellular foam material such as nitrile rubber. A suitable material is Armaflex® insulation tape. The first resilient sealing means may be disposed on either or both of the interengaging sealing surfaces.

[0034] The pipe clamping device may further include a thermal insulating covering substantially surrounding the first and second jacket members.

[0035] The pipe clamping device may further include an insulated supply pipe connected to a source of liquid refrigerant and connected to the supply inlet for transporting the liquid refrigerant to the supply inlet.

[0036] The pipe clamping device may further include an insulated discharge pipe having a first end connected to the supply port and a second end communicating with the insulating covering and the cavity between the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member.

[0037] [Both embodiments] According to the first and second aspects of the present invention, the pipe clamping device comprises: a connecting member pivotally connected to the first jacket member at a first pivot axis; a clasp arm pivotally connected to the connecting member at a second pivot axis parallel to and spaced from the first pivot axis; a detent portion provided on the second jacket member It can be equipped with: The pipe clamping device is characterized in that the clasp arm has a lever portion and a latch portion, the lever portion being operable to engage the latch portion with the detent portion and retain the first and second jacket members in the fully closed position of the pipe clamping device.

[0038] The clamping assembly may include a plurality of parallel connecting members, preferably two connecting members, rotatably connected to the first jacket member at the first axis of rotation.

[0039] The clamping assembly can include a plurality of detents, preferably two, on the second jacket member. The clamping arm includes a plurality of latches, and the lever is operable to engage each latch with a corresponding detent. By including a plurality of connecting members and detents, the clamping effect of the clamping assembly is uniformly applied along the entire length of the pipe clamping device.

[0040] Preferably, the lever portions of the clamping arms are operable in an over-center locking action to hold the first and second jacket members in the fully closed position of the pipe clamping device.

[0041] The lever portion of the clamping arm can further be unlocked to engage the latch portion with the detent portion to hold the first and second jacket members of the pipe clamping device in a partially closed position, thereby allowing the pipe clamping device to be moved along the pipe. In the partially closed position, the pipe clamping device is secured to the pipe and will not come off the pipe, making installation of the pipe clamping device easier and safer.

[0042] The pipe clamping device may further include a locking mechanism that prevents movement of the clamping assembly when the pipe clamping device is in the fully closed position. The locking mechanism may include a threaded member configured to mate with a first threaded hole provided in the clamping arm and a second threaded hole provided in the first outer sheath member. The second threaded hole may be provided in a connecting member rotatably connected to a lug provided in the first outer sheath member by a first pivot shaft. The threaded member may be a Greeve screw. When the clamping device is operated to hold the first outer sheath member and the second outer sheath member in the fully closed position of the pipe clamping device, the first threaded hole and the second threaded hole align, and a threaded fastener can be threaded from the first threaded hole into the second threaded hole, preventing accidental unlocking of the pipe clamping device.

[0043] The lever portion may include a handle. The handle is manually operable to effect the closing of the pipe clamping device. The lever portion may include a tool opening (e.g., a slot) suitable for insertion of a lever tool, thereby enabling operation of the clamping assembly with the lever tool. The lever portion may include a tool receiving flange at the end furthest from the second pivot axis. The tool receiving portion has planar upper and lower surfaces and a constant thickness for engaging the jaws of a spanner, wrench, adjustable spanner, or other suitable tool. This allows the clamping device to be operated using a spanner, wrench, or tool. The tool opening and / or tool receiving portion allow an operator to apply a large lever force to open or close the clamping device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0044] The present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings briefly described below, which are provided for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting the invention. [Figure 1] 1a, 1b and 1c are schematic side views showing an unsecured state, a partially secured state and a fully closed state of a pipe clamping device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a pipe clamping device according to a second embodiment of the present invention in a fully closed state used for pipe repair. [Figure 3] 3 is yet another perspective view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. 2 in a fully closed state. [Figure 4] 3 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. 2 in a completely closed state. [Figure 5] 3 is a front view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. 2 in a completely closed state. [Figure 6] 3 is a bottom view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. 2 in a completely closed state. FIG. [Figure 7] 3 is a perspective view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. 2 in an open or unlocked state. FIG. [Figure 8] 3 is a perspective view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. 2 in a partially fixed state. FIG. [Figure 9] 10 is a perspective view of a pipe clamping device in a fully closed state according to a third embodiment of the present invention, which is used to freeze a pipe and the fluid therein. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 is a further perspective view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. 9 in an open state. FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. 9 in a fully closed state. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. [Figure 13] 3 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe clamping device of FIG. 2 in a fully closed position, including an enlarged view of the longitudinal interlocking sealing surfaces. [Figure 14]10 is a perspective view of a first outer cover member that can be used in the pipe clamping device of FIG. 9. FIG. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the jacket member of FIG.

[0045] The present invention includes a pipe clamping device 10, 110, 210 that can be attached to a pipe 24 and used to repair or isolate the pipe. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0046] [Operation of clamping device] 1a-1c。 By way of example, one method of operating a pipe clamping device is shown diagrammatically in Figures 1a-1c. Pipe clamping device 10 includes first and second jacket members 12, 14 connected by hinge 16, and clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 that sealingly hold first and second jacket members 12, 14 to a pipe 24, sealing the enclosed cavity and providing a fluid seal between jacket members 12, 14 and the pipe. First jacket member 12 and second jacket member 14 each include planar, mating sealing surfaces 20 adapted to form a fluid-tight seal between first jacket member 12 and second jacket member 14, and further include cylindrical sealing surfaces 22 adapted to form a fluid-tight seal between the surface of pipe 24 and jacket members 12, 14.

[0047] In Figure 1a, the pipe clamping device 10 is in a fully open position adjacent to a ruptured or needing to be isolated pipe 24. The pipe clamping device 10 is positioned so that the cylindrical pipe sealing surfaces 22 on each end of the closure device are located on either side of the section of pipe that is ruptured or needs to be isolated.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 1a, the pipe clamping device 10 closes around a pipe 24 by the relative rotation of the first outer cover member 12 and the second outer cover member 14 about a hinge 16. A pin 18 connects the first outer cover member 12 and the second outer cover member 14 to form the hinge 16. A connecting member 26 has a first end connected to a clamping arm holding rig 27 of the first outer cover member 12, which is disposed on a first pivot axis, via a first pivot 28. A clamping arm 30 is disposed on a second pivot axis (parallel to the first pivot axis) via a second pivot 32 and is connected to a second end of the connecting member 26. A user closes the clamping arm 30 using a handle 35 provided on a lever portion 34 of the clamping arm 30, thereby moving the clamping arm 30 and the connecting member 26 to the position shown in FIG. 1b.

[0049] In FIG. 1b, the clamping arm 30 has been moved toward the second jacket member 14 and contacted a clamping arm detent 36 located on a detent lug 37 on the body of the second jacket member 14. The latch 38 of the clamping arm 30 engages the clamping arm detent 36. In this partially locked configuration, or initial closed position, the pipe clamping device 10 is prevented from opening by the engagement of the latch 38 and the detent 36, but the clamping assembly, including the connecting member 26, the clamping arm 30, and the detent 36, is not in a fully closed position. Thus, the pipe clamping device 10 can be securely attached to the pipe 24 in the initial closed position while simultaneously being movable along the length of the pipe 24. This is advantageous in the event of a high-pressure leak. Under such conditions, it can be difficult to close the pipe clamping device 10 around the leaking section of the pipe because the high-pressure leak applies a force that keeps the pipe clamping device 10 open. Advantageously, the pipe clamping device 10 can be placed in an initial closed position at a location on the pipe 24 away from the leak to ensure that the device 10 is securely fastened to the pipe 24 and there is no risk of the device 10 falling off the pipe 24. The pipe clamping device 10 is then slid along the pipe 24 until the hole or rupture is located between the ends of the pipe clamping device 10. A high-pressure leak cannot open the pipe clamping device 10 because the latch 38 is engaged with the detent 36. Additionally, fluid flow from the leak cleans the seal of the pipe clamping device, improving the strength of the seal joint after the pipe clamping device 10 is fully closed.

[0050] The lever 34 is operated in the direction of arrow A shown in FIG. 1b to fully close the clamping assembly and pipe clamping device 10. The fully closed state is shown in FIG. 1c. The lever 34 is operated in an over-center locking motion to hold the first and second jacket members 12, 14 in the fully closed state of the pipe clamping device 10. The interlocking sealing surfaces 20 of the first and second jacket members 12, 14 are now sealed to each other, and the cylindrical pipe sealing surfaces 22 on both ends of the pipe clamping device 10 are now sealed to the pipe 24. A closed cavity 40 is formed between the jackets 12, 14 and the surface of the pipe 24. The cavity 40 is formed by two internal cavities defined by the first and second jacket members 12, 14. Thus, the cavity 40 forms an annular space around the pipe 24. By defining cavity 40 around pipe 24, pipe clamping device 10 can be used on leaky pipes where the leak causes the pipe walls to protrude outward or the pipe diameter to expand without compromising the integrity of the seal. Furthermore, the pipe wall protrusions do not come into contact with, and therefore do not damage, pipe clamping device 10 or sealing surfaces 20, 22. Cavity 40 can also be filled with a refrigerant that freezes any liquid within the pipe to isolate pipe 24, as described below.

[0051] 1a-1c illustrate exemplary clamping assemblies 26, 30, and 36, but the present invention is not limited to these clamping assemblies. Any suitable method for clamping and securing the first and second jacket members may be used. However, the illustrated clamping device has been found to provide a quick and effective method for securing the first and second jacket members 12, 14 in a liquid-tight manner around a pipe. The over-center locking action of the lever member 34 holds the first and second jacket members 12, 14 in a fully closed position, and a positive force must be applied to the lever member to open the pipe clamping device from the fully closed position. Therefore, the fully closed position is a stable position.

[0052] The clamping devices 26, 30, 36 are shown diagrammatically in Figures 1a to 1c. In practice, a single connecting member 26 or two or more connecting members 26 arranged parallel to one another and a single clamping arm 30 or two or more clamping arms 30 arranged parallel to one another may be used. In a preferred embodiment, there are three clamping arms 30 rotatably connected to two connecting members 26. Two latch portions 38 extend laterally between the clamping arms 30 and engage two detents 36 on the second jacket member 14. This is shown in the embodiment shown in Figures 2 to 8.

[0053] [Use of pipe clamping devices to prevent liquid leakage from pipes] Referring to Figures 2 through 8 and 13, a pipe clamping device 110 according to the present invention is shown, which can be used to prevent liquid from leaking from a pipe leak location 90 (referred to as an example of a pipe repair). An example leak location is shown in Figure 4. However, in practice, a leak may occur anywhere on the pipe, such as at a joint or connection, or at a location other than the illustrated location 90. The first and second jacket members 12 and 14 are hingedly connected. Figures 2 through 6 show the pipe clamping device 110 in a fully closed position, with the first and second jacket members 12 and 14 positioned on the surface of the pipe 24, forming a sealed cavity between the first and second jacket members 12 and 14 and the surface of the pipe 24. The first and second jacket members 12 and 14 each have a planar, mating sealing surface 20, which can be best seen in the open position of Figures 7 and 8. The sealing surfaces 20 form a seal between the first and second jacket members 12, 14 to prevent fluid ingress. A first resilient sealing means 72a is fixed to at least one of the mating sealing surfaces 20. In this example, the first resilient sealing means 72a is a sealing means including a strip of resilient material having a Shore A hardness ranging from 30 to 90, preferably 40 to 80. The strip is housed in a first groove 70a extending along the sealing surface. The first resilient sealing means 72a is provided on the sealing surface 20 of at least one of the jacket members 12, 14, while the sealing surface 20 of the other jacket member is a flat surface suitable for mating with the first resilient sealing means 72a. Alternatively, the first groove 70a and first resilient sealing means 72a can be provided on the sealing surfaces 20 of both jacket members 12, 14, as shown in the example of FIG. 13. These are arranged to seal against each other or against the planar portion of the opposing sealing surface 20 .

[0054] In the example shown in FIG. 13, the upper groove 70a of the second jacket member 14 has a C-shaped seal formed therein, with the first resilient sealing means 72a secured therein, while the lower groove 70a of the first jacket member 12 has a flat seal formed therein, with the first resilient sealing means 72a secured therein. Any suitable seal shape can be used for the first resilient sealing means 72a. As can be seen in FIG. 13, the walls of the upper and lower grooves 70a are inclined inward, with the base of the groove being wider than the portion that contacts the corresponding sealing surface 20. This tapered shape, combined with the seal shape, is beneficial for retaining the seal within the groove without adhesive or fastening and preventing the seal from popping out of the groove when the clamp is closed at high temperature and pressure. While retaining the seal, the tapered groove allows the seal to move freely, an advantage over adhesive seals, because it allows some portions of the seal to expand more than others when sealing over uneven surfaces.

[0055] The first and second jacket members 12, 14 each have a pipe sealing surface 22 at each end and are generally semi-cylindrical in shape. Each pipe sealing surface 22 has a second resilient sealing means 72b secured thereto. In this example, the second resilient sealing means 72b is a seal comprising a strip of resilient material having a hardness in the range of 30 to 90 Shore A, preferably 40 to 80 Shore A. This is received in a second groove 70b extending along the sealing surface 22 and provides a fluid-tight seal between the outer surface of the pipe 24 and the jacket members 12, 14, as shown most clearly in Figures 4, 7, and 8.

[0056] Each of the first and second jacket members 12, 14 includes a cylindrical friction surface 23 that provides frictional resistance to axial and / or rotational movement of the pipe clamping device 110 relative to the pipe 24. A resilient friction means 68 is secured to each cylindrical friction surface 23. In this example, the resilient friction means 68 is a strip of resilient material having a Shore A hardness ranging from 50 to 150, selected to be greater than the Shore A hardness of the first and second resilient sealing means 72a, 72b. The resilient friction means 68 are retained in friction grooves 66 formed in the friction surfaces 23. The cylindrical pipe sealing surface 22 and the cylindrical friction surface 23 are axially spaced from one another and are housed in semi-cylindrical collar segments 64 extending from opposite ends of the jacket members 12, 14. These segments form a collar that surrounds the pipe 24 in the fully closed position.

[0057] Preferably, the cylindrical pipe sealing surface 22 is positioned inside and parallel to the cylindrical friction surface 23. In this way, the pipe sealing surface 22 protects the friction surface 23 from any friction.

[0058] The elastic friction means 68 is configured to be discontinuous in the circumferential direction when the pipe clamping device 110 is in the closed position, allowing fluid leaking between the pipe 24 and the cylindrical friction surface 23 to pass through.

[0059] The elastic friction means 68 functions to hold the pipe clamping device 110 on the pipe 24, while the elastic sealing means 72a, 72b function to seal against fluid intrusion. Because these functions are different, different materials can be used. The properties of the elastic friction means 68 can be optimized to minimize movement of the pipe clamping device along the pipe, even when the pipe is subjected to vibration or other external forces. The elastic friction means 68 can be made of natural or synthetic rubber, rope, resin, metal coil, chain, or a fire-resistant barrier material. The elastic friction means 68 can be a porous but rigid material that forms a high-pressure leak-safe pressure relief shutoff seal. The properties of the elastic sealing means 72a, 72b can be optimized to minimize leakage without having to select a material that absorbs and resists vibration and other forces that would otherwise encourage movement of the pipe clamping device 110 along the pipe 24. The elastic sealing means 72a, 72b can be made of natural or synthetic rubber containing an elastomer with a Shore A hardness of 50 to 80. The resilient sealing means 72a, 72b are formed from a hardened material that is disposed in grooves 70a, 70b formed in the sealing surfaces 20, 22 of the jacket members 12, 14.

[0060] One of the jacket members (in this example, first jacket member 12) is provided with an exhaust valve 62 to allow fluid to escape from the enclosed cavity. The exhaust valve 62 is closed when repairs are being made to the pipe, but can then be opened to relieve pressure within the pipe.

[0061] The inner surfaces 12a, 14a of the first and second jacket members 12, 14 form the outer walls of the enclosed cavity 40 and are substantially semi-cylindrical. The diameter Dc of the cylindrical pipe sealing surface 22 is approximately equal to the pipe's outer diameter Dp. The diameter Di of the semi-cylindrical inner surfaces 12a, 14a is larger than the pipe's outer diameter Dp, typically 1.2 or 1.5 times or more the diameter Dp. For example, a pipe clamping device 110 for a pipe with an outer diameter Dp of 50 mm has an inner diameter Di of 100 mm. The resulting cavity 40 formed between the jacket members 12, 14 and the surface of the pipe 24 allows the jacket member to be attached to a section of pipe having a leaking or ruptured external pipe connection (e.g., a bolted or welded connection, or a joint collar 74 as shown in FIG. 4). Or if the outer wall protrudes, the pipe diameter increases due to expansion or bulging, the outside of the pipe corrodes, or a welded joint breaks.

[0062] While the over-center locking action of the lever 34 serves to hold the pipe clamping device 110 stable in the fully closed position, additional measures are useful to prevent accidental unlocking of the pipe clamping device due to incorrect operation of the lever 34. These can be achieved by a locking mechanism 60 that prevents movement of the clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 when the pipe clamping device 110 is in the fully closed position. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a greave screw 60 located in the first threaded hole 61a of the clamping arm 30. In the fully closed position, the first threaded hole 61a faces the second threaded hole 61b located in the clamping arm retaining rib 27 of the first jacket member 12. The locking mechanism 60 can be located on both ends of the pipe clamping device 110, allowing the device 110 to be locked from the most convenient end. A suitable threaded fastener 60 can be used in place of the greave screw. Alternatively, the locking screws may be replaced by locking pins, such as dowels or spring-loaded locking pins, in which case openings 61a, 61b would be unthreaded.

[0063] The lever portion 34 of the clamping arm 30 includes a handle 35 that allows the lever portion to be manually manipulated to operate the closure of the pipe clamping device 110. However, in industrial applications, or when the device 110 is used to seal large pipes 24, the force required may exceed the range that can be achieved by manually manipulating the handle 35. Therefore, the lever portion 34 may include a tool insertion opening 76, such as a slot, to allow insertion of a lever tool, such as a crank bar or the tip of a screwdriver, to operate the clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 with the lever tool. The lever portion 34 may also include a tool receptacle 78 at the end furthest from the second axis of rotation 32. In this example, the tool receptacle flange 78 has planar upper and lower surfaces and a constant thickness and is designed to be gripped by the jaws of a spanner, wrench, adjustable spanner, or other suitable tool, allowing the clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 to be operated using the spanner, wrench, or tool. The tool opening 76 and / or tool receiving flange 78 allow an operator to apply a greater lever force to close or open the clamping devices 26, 30, 36.

[0064] [Using pipe clamping devices to freeze and isolate pipes] 9-12, a pipe clamping device 210 according to the present invention is shown, which is a so-called pipe freezing embodiment, for isolating a pipe 24 at a freezing location 92 by freezing fluid flowing within the pipe.

[0065] Pipe clamping device 210 opens and closes in a manner similar to pipe clamping device 110 shown and described in Figures 2 to 8. The clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 are the same and will not be described further. Like parts are given the same reference numbers.

[0066] The pipe clamping device 210 includes a first jacket member 12 and a second jacket member 14 connected by a hinge 16 and is adapted to be positioned on the surface of a pipe 24 to define a sealed cavity between the first jacket member 12, the second jacket member 14, and the surface of the pipe 24. The clamping devices 26, 30, and 36 hold the first and second jacket members in sealing relation to the pipe, sealing the enclosed cavity 40 and providing a fluid-tight seal between the jacket members 12, 14 and the pipe 24, as described above with reference to Figures 1 through 8. However, because the cavity 40 is not subject to high internal pressure in this embodiment, the requirements for the mating first and second resilient sealing means 72a, 72b of the sealing surface 20 and the pipe sealing surface 22 are different. They need to be able to withstand low temperatures, but not high pressure differentials across the seal. A typical material for the first and second resilient sealing means 72a, 72b is a cellular foam material such as nitrile rubber. The first and second resilient sealing means 72a, 72b may be Armaflex® tape or sheet applied to one or both of the mating sealing surfaces 20 and to the semi-cylindrical pipe sealing surface 22. Alternatively, the first and second resilient sealing means 72a, 72b may be provided as described above with reference to the pipe repair embodiment.

[0067] Depending on the environment in which the pipe clamping device 210 is used to freeze fluid in a pipe, friction surfaces 23 may not be required on either end of the device 210. In this case, the friction grooves 66 and elastic friction means 68 are omitted. The outer sleeve portions 64 that house the friction surfaces 23 on either end of the device 210 are also omitted. However, if the freezing device 210 is subjected to large forces such as vibration, the friction surfaces 23 and the elastic friction means 68 provided thereon are maintained.

[0068] The first and second jacket members 12, 14 are provided with inlets 220 for connection to a source of liquid refrigerant, which inlets 220 communicate with the enclosed cavity 40. The inlet 220 provided on each jacket member 12, 14 allows an operator to select the location of the connection to the liquid refrigerant source. Unused inlets 220 can be closed with a removable cap (not shown). However, in some embodiments, it may be sufficient to provide an inlet 220 on only one of the jacket members 12, 14.

[0069] Similarly, each of the first jacket member 12 and the second jacket member 14 is provided with an outlet 222 for the discharge of liquid refrigerant, and the outlet 222 communicates with the enclosed cavity 40, allowing an operator to select a location for discharging the liquid refrigerant from the cavity 40. Unused outlets 222 can be closed with removable caps 223. However, in some embodiments, it may be sufficient to provide an outlet 222 in only one of the jacket members 12, 14.

[0070] The cavity 40 contains a heat-reflecting foil 224 and an absorbent material 226 adapted to retain, and at least partially retain, liquid refrigerant introduced into the cavity 40 through the inlet 220. The heat-reflecting foil 224 is disposed so as to span the entire interior of the cavity 40, i.e., the semi-cylindrical walls and end walls of the outer jacket members 12, 14. Because the heat-reflecting foil 224 is secured to the interior of each outer jacket member 12, 14 and the absorbent material 226 is secured to the heat-reflecting foil 224, the absorbent material 226 fills the cavity 40 between the heat-reflecting foil 224 and the pipe 24 when the device 210 is in use in a fully closed state.

[0071] By sealingly holding the jacket members 12, 14 against the pipe 24, the clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 compress the contacting sealing surfaces 20 of the jacket members 12, 14 together with the resilient sealing means 72a therebetween. At the same time, the clamping assemblies 26, 30, 36 press the cylindrical pipe sealing surfaces 22 against the surface of the pipe, forming a fluid-tight seal via the resilient sealing means 72b between the jacket members 12, 14 and the surface of the pipe 24. This seal serves to contain the liquid refrigerant 94 introduced into the cavity 40 formed within the pipe clamping device 210.

[0072] The absorbent material 226 can be foam, a sponge-like material, mineral wool, or glass wool. The absorbent material 226 may be an aluminum foil-backed mineral wool 228, such as Rockwool®. When the absorbent material is an aluminum foil-backed material 228, an aluminum foil backing layer 230 is desirably positioned adjacent to the heat-reflecting aluminum foil 224 so that, in use, the mineral wool of the aluminum foil-backed material 228 is adjacent to and in intimate contact with the pipe 24. This keeps the liquid refrigerant 94 close to the pipe 24, slowing the release of boiling gases and keeping the pipe as cool as possible.

[0073] The heat reflective foil 224 may be a high thermal performance reflective film, cryogenic foil, cryogenic paper, a cryogenic foil / paper composite, aluminum foil, or similar material. A suitable heat reflective foil 224 is Reflectashield® manufactured by Proctor Group.

[0074] The heat-reflecting foil 224 has openings 232 corresponding to the one or more inlets 220 and the one or more outlets 222, as best seen in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 12 . The absorber 226 has openings 234 corresponding to the one or more inlets 220, but no openings at the outlets. Instead, the absorber 226 extends across and at least partially covers the one or more outlets. This arrangement allows the liquid refrigerant to easily pass through the heat-reflecting foil 224 at the inlet, through the openings 234 in the absorber 226, and reach the entire depth of the absorber 226. The absorber 226 therefore retains the evaporating liquid and forces it against the pipe walls, causing it to freeze quickly. From there, the liquid flows along the entire length of the absorber 226 and the annulus of the interior cavity 40, vaporizing and circling the absorber 226 to the outlet 222.

[0075] The inner surfaces of the first and second jacket members 12, 14 may be provided with localized protrusions 236 (such as pins or dowels) that at least partially surround each outlet 222. The protrusions 236 are shown in Figure 12. The purpose of the protrusions 236 is to provide clearance between the absorbent material 226 and the outlets 222 to prevent the absorbent material 226 from blocking the outlets. This is particularly necessary when the absorbent material 226 is aluminum foil-backed mineral wool 228, as the aluminum foil backing 230 could block the outlets 222 without the protrusions.

[0076] The liquid refrigerant 94 is a liquid gas with a boiling point temperature below −70° C., preferably below −150° C. Suitable liquid refrigerants include liquid nitrogen. Liquid carbon dioxide may also be used.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 11 , the pipe clamping device 210 can include an insulating jacket or jacket 240 that substantially surrounds the first jacket member 12 and the second jacket member 14, thereby further improving the thermal insulation of the pipe clamping device 210 and the freezing effect on the pipe 24. An insulated suction pipe 238 is used to transport liquid refrigerant 94 from a source, such as a pressurized tank or bottle of liquid refrigerant, to the suction port 220 and through the suction port to the cavity 40, as indicated by arrow 96. An insulated outlet pipe 242 has a first end connected to the outlet port 222 and a second end communicating with the insulating jacket 240 and the cavity 244 between the first and second jacket members 12, 14. This maximizes the refrigeration properties of the liquid refrigerant to cool the pipe clamping device 210 and the pipe 24.

[0078] Alternatively, the insulating jacket 240 may be configured to surround an outlet 222 through which the evaporated liquid refrigerant 94 exits the cavity 40. In this case, a cover member (not shown) is positioned to partially cover the outlet 222, directing the evaporated liquid refrigerant 94 laterally within the cavity 244 between the insulating jacket 240 and the first and second jacket members 12, 14. A secondary exhaust port (not shown) is provided to vent the refrigerant nitrogen or other gas to an external exhaust port, preventing gas buildup within the enclosed room or space. The insulating jacket or jacket 240 may comprise a suitable insulating material, such as expanded polystyrene, expanded foam, cellular plastic or card material, glass wool, or insulating fiber. The locations of the inlet 220 and outlet 222 may be varied. For example, the locations of the inlet 220 and outlet 222 shown in the first jacket member 12 of FIG. 11 may be reversed.

[0079] Alternatively, or in addition to an outer jacket, the jacket members 12, 14 can be formed with a rigid or semi-rigid cellular structure, or can have a hollow structure with one or more openings to the lumen 40. Hollow jacket members 12, 14 can be manufactured by 3D printing or traditional casting and CNC machining. The jacket members 12, 14 can include sections, channels, cellular, or honeycomb structures within the jacket walls, allowing gas to circulate within the sandwiched walls before being discharged. This improves heat transfer efficiency and allows more cold gas to be utilized before being discharged from the device 210. An example of a hollow jacket member 12 is shown in Figures 14 and 15. A plurality of longitudinal passages 250 extend within the body of the jacket 12. These passages are connected by transverse passages (not shown), forming a network of cavities within the body of the jacket 12. The network inlet 252 provides a communication path between the enclosure cavity 40 and the passages 250, and the network outlet 254 provides a communication path between the passages 250 and the outlet 222. The liquid refrigerant, now in a gaseous phase, passes behind the absorbent material 226 and / or heat-reflective foil 224, enters the network passages 250 via the network inlet 252, and finally exits through the network outlet 254 and the enclosure outlet 222. This process cools the enclosure, thereby obtaining maximum cooling from the liquid refrigerant.

[0080] The following options apply to both pipe clamping systems for containing leaks from pipes and for freezing and isolating pipes.

[0081] The jacket components 12, 14 may be fabricated from, for example, R530H, a 30% glass-reinforced nylon (polyamide); Zytel (RTM), a 35% glass-reinforced nylon (polyamide); or acetal (POM) copolymers (e.g., Hostaform (RTM) C9021 or Hostaform (RTM) C2521) or other suitable plastic materials. The jacket components 12, 14 may also be fabricated from metals such as steel, cast iron, stainless steel, or metal alloys. Thermocolor change materials, composite materials, and conventional and advanced materials used in additive manufacturing 3D printing may also be used.

[0082] Although the pipe repair and pipe freezing configurations of the pipe clamping device 10, 110, 210 are described separately, it is contemplated that a single pipe clamping device 10, 110, 210 may be used for both pipe repair and pipe freezing applications by combining the attributes of both configurations. Thus, the sealing surfaces 20, 22 and friction surface 23 of the pipe repair embodiment described with reference to Figures 2-8 and 13 may be incorporated into the pipe freezing embodiment described with reference to Figures 9-12 and 14-15. The heat reflective foil 224 and absorbent material 226 described in the pipe freezing embodiment are separately provided and attached to the pipe clamping device 10, 110, 210 when used in a pipe freezing application.

[0083] In other embodiments, the clamping assembly can include other securing means. For example, the securing means can be a ratchet and paddle system or similar structure. The ratchet can be a linear ratchet connected to either the first jacket member 12 or the second jacket member 14. The paddle can be connected to the other of the first jacket member 12 or the second jacket member 14. The ratchet and paddle are manually operated by threading the linear ratchet through the paddle. Pressure to close the pipe clamping device causes an element of the linear ratchet to engage the pawl, holding the pipe clamping device closed and preventing it from loosening. This operation is similar to the operation of handcuffs or a zip tie.

[0084] In some embodiments, the ratchet and pawl are manually operated, with or without a lever, i.e., the ratchet and pawl function to close the pipe clamping device by manually bringing the first and second jacket members together, and are designed to be operable by a user of the pipe clamping device with one hand, i.e., by bringing the first and second jacket members together with one hand to engage the ratchet and pawl.

[0085] In other embodiments, the ratchet and pawl system may be tool-operated. For example, a ratchet handle may be attached to a ratchet and paddle mechanism located on the housing of the pipe clamping device, and manipulation of the handle may tighten the closure of the device. In such embodiments, the securing means may include a release mechanism. The release mechanism may be, for example, a push-button release mechanism that quickly releases the securing means and allows for quick removal of the pipe clamping device.

[0086] In another embodiment, the securing means 20 is a jubilee clip type attachment or similar structure that includes a strip wrapped around the entire jacket and tightens to hold the pipe clamp in a sealed relationship with the pipe.

[0087] It will be appreciated that other types of fastening means may also be used.

[0088] The first and second resilient sealing means 72a, 72b can include seals made of a variety of materials. For example, the seals may be made using materials such as Arnitel (RTM), a polyetherester elastomer (TPE-E); or Santopene (RTM), a thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV). Other possible materials include HNBR, FKM (Viton®), EPDM, PTFE, neoprene, resin, fiber resin, injectable resin, and water or liquid expanding materials.

[0089] In other embodiments, the seals are formed on the sealing surfaces 20, 22. In other embodiments, the seals are integrally formed as part of the sealing surfaces 20, 22. In yet other embodiments, the seals form a "tongue and groove" arrangement, where one male portion of the seal (the tongue) is formed on one of the first or second jacket members 12, 14 and interacts with a female portion of the seal (the groove) formed on the other jacket member 12, 14.

[0090] In some embodiments, the seals of the first and second resilient sealing means 72a, 72b are removable. Removable seals allow the seals to be interchangeable for different applications of the pipe clamping device 10, 110, 210. For example, if the system contains steam or high-temperature fluids, a seal with high heat resistance is installed. In systems containing chemical fluids, a seal with appropriate resistance to the specific fluid is used. Also, in high-pressure systems, a more rigid seal is used.

[0091] In some embodiments, the first and second resilient sealing means 72a, 72b may comprise two or more separate seals arranged side by side, each of which may comprise the same or different materials. Additionally, the first and second resilient sealing means may include breaker or pressure relief safety seals arranged outside the first and second resilient sealing means to restrict fluid flow in the event of a failure of the seals.

[0092] In some embodiments, the encapsulant is formed from a water-swellable polymer, such as a urethane polymer, which, when water contacts the surface of the polymer, causes water molecules to predictably arrange themselves around the polymer molecules until the polymer becomes "water-filled." Such materials are sold, for example, by Industrial Polymers Incorporated.

[0093] In one embodiment, the clamping device is supplied without the first and second resilient sealing means housed within the first and second sealing grooves. Instead, the first and second seals are formed from a curable material, such as a silicone-based sealant or resin, that is applied to the grooves immediately prior to attaching the clamping device to the pipe. One or both jacket members may be adapted to have one or more sealant channels in fluid communication with the grooves. This allows the sealant or resin to be pumped through the channels into the grooves after the device is closed to the pipe and then cured or solidified to form the required seal. Alternatively, the sealant or resin can be pumped into the exposed grooves before the device is closed to the pipe. This allows for a more permanent repair to contain fluid leaking from a ruptured pipe. Placing additional grooves outside the first and second grooves allows the resilient sealant to be placed in one groove and the sealant or resin to be pumped into the other groove. This allows the more permanent seal or resin seal to contain the leaking fluid even if the elastomeric seal deteriorates over time.

[0094] In yet another embodiment, the seal is formed as an electric weld joint, using an electrical current to weld the seal to the surface of the pipe.

[0095] Other embodiments and applications of the pipe clamping device are envisioned.

[0096] For example, the pipe clamping device 10, 110 can provide a permanent joint between two pipe sections or act as a pipe fixing bracket.

[0097] Alternatively, the pipe clamping device 10, 110 may be used in conjunction with an electrical cable. The pipe clamping device 10, 110 may be placed around a damaged electrical cable to provide electrical insulation for protection and / or safety, thereby preventing injury to anyone who may come into contact with the exposed wiring and further damage to the cable. The hollow interior of the pipe clamping device has the advantage of not forcibly compressing the exposed wiring.

[0098] Alternatively, the pipe clamping device 10, 110 may be used in conjunction with an undamaged but sound pipe to help protect the pipe and prevent it from breaking or bursting. Alternatively, the pipe clamping device may be placed around a broken or damaged pole as temporary reinforcement. Alternatively, the pipe clamping device may be used in thermosetting or electric welding applications.

[0099] The pipe clamping device 10, 110 can be used on pipes that may be leaking (e.g., pipes identified as having localized wall thinning due to corrosion or wear) to contain the leaking fluid in the event of a leak. In a related embodiment, the device can be adapted to inject nitrogen into the cavity of the pipe to inhibit or slow oxidation of the pipe.

[0100] Additionally, the pipe clamping devices 10, 110 can be fitted around garden hoses, hydraulic pipes such as those used on tractors and excavators, gasoline pump hoses, and / or automobile radiator and / or brake pipes to contain leaks, thereby allowing temporary repairs to vehicles in remote locations.

[0101] Alternatively, the pipe clamping device 110 can be used as a putty applicator. In this case, the cavity is filled with a hardening putty and the putty is applied around the ruptured pipe section. The putty can then be allowed to harden before the pipe clamping device is released, leaving the putty in place to seal off any leaking fluid. Resin, cement, etc. can also be injected / pumped into the cavity of the pipe clamping devices described herein and allowed to harden within the cavity 40.

[0102] In another application, the sealed cavity can be used for water treatment using a filter. For example, if the present invention is used to join two open-ended pipes, a filter can be placed within the cavity to capture particulates in the fluid supply. In some embodiments, the filter can be a magnetic filter that can attract and retain magnetic metals. The pipe clamping device can be used in drinking water systems.

[0103] When the pipe clamping device 110, 210 is used as part of a permanent or semi-permanent repair, portions of the clamping device can be installed and then removed, reducing the weight of the pipe and eliminating the need for pipe supports. This is particularly advantageous for larger clamping devices, but it can also be useful for temporary repairs because of its lighter weight, smaller size, and location flexibility.

[0104] In certain embodiments, it is envisioned that the pipe clamping device will be portable between piping used in hydrocarbon, chemical, domestic heating, water, and gas systems.

[0105] The devices disclosed herein are contemplated for use or application in the following areas: - Domestic water / gas systems - Commercial Water / Gas Systems and Utilities - Waste and sewage systems - Maintenance of machinery and equipment in factories - Cars, trucks and other vehicles - Developing countries or other areas where there may be a shortage of plumbers - Oil rigs, refineries, petrochemical plants - ocean floor - Spacecraft and other aerospace applications - Aviation pipeline - Hydraulic hoses - Chemical plants - Ships, submarines and other marine machinery - Steel pipes and threaded pipes that are difficult to repair or replace fittings - Fire hoses and garden hoses - Maintenance of hospital heating systems and repair of accidental punctures and leaks in pipes connected to patients. - Repair of a perforated pipe in a ventilation system in a pub - For use in distillery piping

[0106] The clamping mechanism is used as an anchor or fixture for the pipeline.

[0107] This specific description is intended to illustrate an embodiment of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention, as those skilled in the art will be able to devise other embodiments of the invention without departing from the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A pipe clamping device for preventing fluid from leaking from a pipe, comprising: a first outer jacket member and a second outer jacket member connected by a hinge and adapted to be mounted on a surface of a pipe to define a sealed cavity between the first outer jacket member and the surface of the pipe when the pipe clamping device is in a fully closed position; a clamping assembly that operates to hold the first and second jacket members in sealing engagement with the pipe to seal the enclosed cavity and prevent fluid ingress between the first and second jacket members and the pipe; Equipped with the first jacket member and the second jacket member each include interengaging sealing surfaces adapted to form a fluid-tight seal between the first jacket member and the second jacket member, at least one of the interengaging sealing surfaces having a first sealing groove; each of the first and second jacket members includes a pipe sealing surface adapted to seal against fluid ingress between a surface of the pipe and the first and second jacket members, each of the pipe sealing surfaces having a second sealing groove; each of the first jacket member and the second jacket member comprises a part-cylindrical friction surface adapted to separate from the pipe sealing surface and to provide friction against axial and / or rotational movement of the pipe clamping device relative to the pipe, each of the part-cylindrical friction surfaces having resilient friction means secured thereto; Pipe clamping device.

2. 2. The pipe clamping device according to claim 1, further comprising a first elastic sealing means provided in said first sealing groove and a second elastic sealing means provided in said second sealing groove.

3. The pipe clamping device according to claim 2, the elastic friction means has greater elastic stiffness than the first elastic sealing means and the second elastic sealing means; Optionally, the resilient friction means comprises arcuate strips of resilient material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 50 to 150, preferably 70 to 100; Pipe clamping device.

4. 4. A pipe clamping device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the first elastic sealing means and the second elastic sealing means each comprise a strip of elastic material having a Shore A hardness in the range of 30 to 90, preferably 40 to 80.

5. The pipe clamping device according to claim 2, said resilient friction means comprising arcuate strips of resilient material; each of the first resilient sealing means and the second resilient sealing means comprises a strip of resilient material; the elastic material of the elastic friction means has a Shore A hardness greater than the elastic materials of the first elastic sealing means and the second elastic sealing means; Pipe clamping device.

6. A pipe clamping device as described in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein one of the first outer sheath member and the second outer sheath member is provided with a vent valve that allows fluid from the sealed cavity to be released to the atmosphere.

7. A pipe clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The inner surfaces of the first and second outer jacket members that form the outer walls of the cavity have a substantially semi-cylindrical shape, the pipe sealing surface has a substantially semi-cylindrical shape and a diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the pipe; the inner surface of the semi-cylindrical shape is larger than the outer diameter of the pipe, preferably at least 1.5 times the diameter of the pipe; Pipe clamping device.

8. 1. A pipe clamping device for use with a pipe to isolate the pipe by freezing a fluid carried within the pipe, comprising: a first outer jacket member and a second outer jacket member connected by a hinge and adapted to be mounted on a surface of a pipe to define a sealed cavity between the first outer jacket member and the surface of the pipe when the pipe clamping device is in a fully closed position; a clamping assembly that operates to hold the first and second jacket members in sealing engagement with the pipe to seal the enclosed cavity and prevent fluid ingress between the first and second jacket members and the pipe; Equipped with one of the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member has an inlet attached to a liquid refrigerant source, the inlet communicating with the sealed cavity; one of the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member has an outlet for removing evaporated liquid refrigerant, the outlet communicating with the sealed cavity; the cavity comprises a heat reflective material and an absorbent material adapted to contain and at least retain liquid refrigerant introduced through the inlet, the absorbent material being located, in use, between the heat reflective material and the pipe; Pipe clamping device.

9. 9. The pipe clamping device according to claim 8, each of the first and second jacket members having interengaging sealing surfaces adapted to form a fluid-tight seal between the first and second jacket members, at least one of the interengaging sealing surfaces having a first resilient sealing means secured thereto; each of the first and second jacket members having a pipe sealing surface adapted to seal against fluid ingress between a surface of the pipe and the first and second jacket members, each of the pipe sealing surfaces having second resilient sealing means secured thereto; Pipe clamping device.

10. 10. A pipe clamping device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the absorbent material is a foam, a sponge-like material, rock wool, or glass wool.

11. 11. A pipe clamping device as claimed in any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein the absorbent material is rock wool backed with foil, the foil being arranged adjacent to the outer jacket member so that in use the absorbent material is adjacent to the pipe.

12. A pipe clamping device according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the heat reflective material is a reflective membrane with high thermal performance, such as low temperature foil, low temperature paper, low temperature foil / paper composite, aluminum foil, etc.

13. 13. A pipe clamping device according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein each of the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member has an inlet attached to a liquid refrigerant source, and each of the inlets communicates with the sealed cavity.

14. 14. A pipe clamping device according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein each of the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member has an outlet for removing liquid refrigerant, and each of the outlets is in communication with the sealed cavity.

15. 15. A pipe clamping device according to claim 8, wherein the heat reflective material is attached to the inner surface of each of the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member.

16. 16. A pipe clamping device according to claim 15, wherein the heat reflective material has openings corresponding to the one or more inlet ports and one or more outlet ports.

17. 17. A pipe clamping device according to claim 15 or 16, wherein the absorbent material is attached to an inner surface of the heat reflective material.

18. 18. A pipe clamping device according to claim 17, wherein the absorbent material has openings corresponding to the one or more inlets and extends across or covers at least a portion of the one or more outlets.

19. 20. A pipe clamping device as claimed in claim 18, wherein the inner surfaces of the first and second jacket members are provided with localised protrusions, e.g. pins, at least partially surrounding each of the outlets and providing clearance between the absorbent material and the outlet so that the absorbent material does not block the outlet.

20. 20. A pipe clamping device according to any one of claims 8 to 19, wherein the first resilient sealing means and the second resilient sealing means comprise a porous foam material such as nitrile rubber.

21. 21. A pipe clamping apparatus according to any one of claims 8 to 20, further comprising an insulated inlet pipe adapted to be connected to a source of liquid refrigerant and to one of the inlets for conveying liquid refrigerant to the inlet.

22. 22. The pipe clamping device according to claim 8, further comprising a heat insulating covering that substantially surrounds the first outer jacket member and the second outer jacket member.

23. 23. The pipe clamping device of claim 22, further comprising an output pipe; the output pipe is connected to one of the outlets at a first end thereof and communicates with a cavity between the thermal insulating covering and the first and second outer jacket members at a second end thereof; Pipe clamping device.

24. A pipe clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 23, a connecting member pivotally connected to the first jacket member at a first pivot axis; a clasp arm pivotally connected to the connecting member at a second pivot axis parallel to and spaced from the first pivot axis; a detent portion provided on the second jacket member Equipped with the clasp arm having a lever portion and a latch portion, the lever portion operable to engage the latch portion with the detent portion and retain the first and second jacket members in the fully closed position of the pipe clamping device. Pipe clamping device.

25. 25. A pipe clamping device according to claim 24, further comprising a locking mechanism operable to prevent movement of the clamp assembly when in the fully closed position.

26. 26. The pipe clamping device of claim 25, wherein the locking mechanism includes a threaded member disposed within a first threaded opening on the clasp arm that is engageable with a second threaded opening on the first jacket member.

27. A pipe clamping device as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein the lever portion has a tool opening, such as a slot, suitable for insertion of a lever tool to enable operation of the clamping assembly by the lever tool.

28. 28. A pipe clamping device as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the lever portion has a tool receiving flange at its edge furthest from the second pivot axis, the tool receiving flange being suitable for engagement by the jaws of an adjustable wrench to enable movement of the clamping assembly by the wrench.

29. A method for preventing fluid leakage from a location in a pipe using a pipe clamping device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 and 24 to 28, comprising the steps of: providing the first jacket member and the second jacket member around the location such that the first jacket member and the second jacket member at least partially surround the pipe at the location; manipulating the clamping assembly to close the first and second jacket members around the pipe to define a sealed cavity between the first and second jacket members and the surface of the pipe in a fully closed position; operating the clamping assembly to hold the first and second jacket members in sealing engagement with the pipe to seal the enclosed cavity and prevent fluid ingress between the first and second jacket members and the pipe. and the interengaging sealing surfaces provide a fluid seal between the first and second jacket members, the pipe sealing surfaces provide a fluid seal between the surface of the pipe and each of the first and second jacket members, and the friction surfaces provide frictional resistance against axial movement of the pipe clamping device relative to the pipe. method.

30. A method of isolating a pipe at a location within the pipe by freezing a fluid carried at said location using a pipe clamping device according to any one of claims 8 to 28, comprising the steps of:

31. 31. The method according to claim 30, wherein the liquid refrigerant is a liquid gas having a boiling point below -70°C, preferably below -150°C.

32. 32. The method of claim 31 , wherein the liquid refrigerant is liquid nitrogen.

Images