Torsion-resistant joint

Abstract

Providing torsion-resistant joints. [Solution] A joint for joining a first pipe element and a second pipe element includes a first ring and a second ring that are attachable to the pipe element. Each ring defines a groove and a plurality of receiving surfaces adjacent to the groove. The segments are attachable end-to-end so as to surround a central space and a ring. Each segment includes a key projecting toward the central space for engaging with each groove of the ring. Each segment includes at least one working surface that is engageable with the receiving surfaces of the first and second rings. The engagement between the working surface and the receiving surface prevents the first and second pipe elements from rotating relative to each other. A method for assembling the joint is also disclosed.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , ,

[0003]

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 448,363, filed on February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 448,364, filed on February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 448,366, filed on February 27, 2023; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 600,392, filed on November 17, 2023; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 600,400, filed on November 17, 2023, and these applications are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] Field of the Invention The present invention relates to mechanical joints for joining pipe elements and methods for pipeline maintenance management.

Background Art

[0003] Background Large - diameter pipelines are complex, expensive, and dangerous to assemble and deploy on - site. In some industries, particularly the mining industry, the medium (such as slurry) transported through the pipeline can be abrasive and / or corrosive, which may cause accelerated wear of the inner part of the pipe element in contact with the medium. The lowest region inside the pipe element is usually the most worn because abrasive particles become layered in the flow under gravity, and most of the abrasive particles in the fluid contact and erode the lowest region most rapidly.

[0004] The lifespan of such pipelines can be significantly increased by periodically rotating the pipe element to position different, less - erodible parts inside the pipe element so that they become the lowest (bottom) part, while rotating the worn parts to the side or top. Depending on the medium and wear rate, the pipe element can be rotated at 90 - degree intervals, 120 - degree intervals, or 180 - degree intervals (referred to as "clocking"). When the pipe element is clocked a sufficient number of times so that all inner surfaces show approximately equal wear, the pipe element is replaced.

[0005] Rotating pipelines is also a complex, expensive, and dangerous undertaking, and especially for large-diameter pipelines, it often requires the same heavy machinery used to lay the pipeline in the first place. Since rotating each pipe element of a pipeline individually is not practical, it is common to rotate long sections of pipeline that may have pipe elements and several joints (joints remaining in their original state) for several hundred feet (tens to several hundred meters). A common method for rotating pipeline sections is to use a series of specialized tracked vehicles called "side booms," although lifting equipment such as cranes or other machinery known in the art may also be used. Each side boom has a lifting crane boom that extends to the side of the tracked vehicle to lift the pipe elements from the trench or elevated support. If the pipe elements of the pipeline are joined by bolted flanges, the flanges at both ends of the pipeline section to be rotated are unbolted. Specialized slings that allow rotation around the longitudinal axis of the pipe elements are stretched around the pipeline section at intervals along its length. Next, multiple side booms are introduced and connected to slings, which are used to lift the pipe elements. In addition, one or more side booms are introduced and connected to different slings arranged to tighten around the conduit. These slings are positioned eccentrically with respect to the diameter of the pipe elements so that the lifting axis of each sling is pulled tangentially to the pipe element when the sling is lifted. As the side booms lift the pipe elements, each eccentric sling rotates that pipe element, resulting in the entire conduit section rotating. Since only a limited amount of rotation can be produced with each lift of the eccentric sling, the eccentric slings may need to be reset several times during the lift, and the rotation process is repeated while the lifting side booms hold the conduit section in the raised position until the desired amount of rotation is achieved.

[0006] Once the conduit section has been rotated sufficiently, the eccentric sling is disengaged, and the lifting side boom lowers the conduit section back into place to reconnect the end flange of the conduit section to the conduit. When flanged conduit elements are used, the rotation of the conduit section must be carefully controlled to ensure that the bolt holes on the flanges at the ends of the section align perfectly with the fitting flanges of the conduit. Since grooved joints do not depend on the rotational position of the conduit elements being joined, joints between conduit elements formed by mechanical fittings that engage with grooved conduit elements ("grooved joints") may be used instead of flanged conduit elements to eliminate the need for rotational alignment between the conduit section and the conduit. However, grooved joints have lower rotational resistance around the longitudinal axis of the conduit elements than flanged joints. Conduit elements joined by grooved joints may slip, allowing individual conduit elements to rotate relative to each other. Therefore, not all conduit elements within a conduit section may rotate by the same amount as the conduit elements rotated by the eccentric sling. The sliding of pipe elements against fittings reduces the number of joints that can be included in the section of pipeline that rotates together, resulting in shorter pipeline sections being rotated at once. Whether grooved or flanged joints are used, the need to detach pipe elements at the end of each pipeline section may allow for fluid loss from the pipeline. This loss may be economically impractical or, depending on the fluid in the pipeline, environmentally unfriendly.

[0007] Clearly, there is an opportunity to improve the process of lifting and rotating large-diameter pipe joints and large-diameter pipe sections, without suffering the drawbacks of prior art processes. [Overview of the project] [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] overview This disclosure relates to a joint for joining a first pipe element and a second pipe element. In one exemplary embodiment, the joint comprises a first ring attachable to the end of the first pipe element. The first ring defines a first groove extending circumferentially around it and a plurality of receiving surfaces adjacent to the first groove. A second ring attachable to the end of the second pipe element. The second ring defines a second groove extending circumferentially around it and a plurality of receiving surfaces adjacent to the second groove. The first segment and the second segment are attachable end-to-end so as to surround a central space. The first segment comprises a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the first segment and projecting toward the central space. The first key and the second key are spaced apart. At least one working surface is engageable with one of the receiving surfaces of the plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring. At least one working surface is engageable with one of the receiving surfaces of the second ring. The engagement between the working surface and the receiving surface prevents the first and second tubular elements from rotating relative to each other. The second segment includes a first key and a second key that extend longitudinally along the second segment and project toward the central space. The first key and the second key on the second segment are spaced apart. When the first and second rings are positioned within the central space, the first key and the second key on the first and second segments are engageable with the first groove and the second groove, respectively. The first segment includes a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends thereof. The second segment includes a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends thereof. The first mounting member on the first segment is engageable with the first mounting member on the second segment. A second mounting member on the first segment is engageable with a second mounting member on the second segment in order to attach the first segment and the second segment to each other.

[0009] For example, each of the multiple receiving surfaces of the first ring extends along the chord of the first ring, and each of the multiple receiving surfaces of the second ring extends along the chord of the second ring.

[0010] In one exemplary embodiment, the second segment further comprises at least one working surface that can engage with a receiving surface among a plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring, and at least one working surface that can engage with a receiving surface among a plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring. The engagement between the working surface and the receiving surface prevents the first and second tubular elements from rotating relative to each other.

[0011] In one exemplary embodiment, the first ring defines a first notch and a second notch adjacent to the first groove. Each of the first and second notches has a receiving surface among a plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring. The second ring defines a first notch and a second notch adjacent to the second groove. Each of the first and second notches has a receiving surface among a plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring. The first segment has a first projection and a second projection extending transversely to the first key and the second key. Each of the first and second projections has a working surface among at least one working surface of the first segment. The first projection is engageable with the first notch of the first ring, and the second projection is engageable with the first notch of the second ring. The second segment comprises a first projection and a second projection extending transversely to the first key and the second key. Each of the first and second projections has a working surface among at least one working surface of the second segment. The first projection is engageable with a second notch of the first ring, and the second projection is engageable with a second notch of the second ring.

[0012] For example, the first ring defines a second notch adjacent to the first groove. The second notch comprises a receiving surface among a plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring. The second ring defines a second notch adjacent to the second groove. The second notch comprises a receiving surface among a plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring. Further example, the first and second notches of the first and second rings comprise a first and second receiving surface extending inward toward a central space, and a third receiving surface extending transversely between them. For example, the first and second notches of the first ring are on opposite sides of the first ring, and the first and second notches of the second ring are on opposite sides of the second ring.

[0013] For example, the first and second projections of the first and second segments each comprise a first and second working surface extending outward away from the respective first and second keys, and a third working surface extending transversely between them. Further example, the first and second working surfaces are configured to engage with a first and second receiving surface, respectively, and the third working surface is configured to engage with a third receiving surface.

[0014] In one exemplary embodiment, each mounting member has protrusions defining a first hole and a second hole in a spaced-out relationship. Each hole is adapted to receive an adjustable fastener for attaching the first mounting member on the first segment to the first mounting member on the second segment, and for attaching the second mounting member on the first segment to the second mounting member on the second segment.

[0015] In one exemplary embodiment, a first segment defines a first channel positioned between a first key and a second key on the first segment and extending longitudinally along them. A second segment defines a second channel positioned between a first key and a second key on the second segment and extending longitudinally along them. As an example, the fitting further comprises a seal received within the first and second channels. The seal is engageable with the first and second rings to provide a liquid-tight joint.

[0016] In one exemplary embodiment, the first ring defines a third notch and a fourth notch, and the second ring defines a third notch and a fourth notch. For example, the third and fourth notches of the first and second rings comprise a first and second receiving surface extending inward toward the central space, and a third receiving surface extending transversely between them. Further example, the third and fourth notches of the first ring are on opposite sides of the first ring, and the third and fourth notches of the second ring are on opposite sides of the second ring.

[0017] In another exemplary embodiment, the first mounting member on the first segment defines a first working surface of at least one working surface of the first segment, which is engageable with a first receiving surface among a plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring when the first ring and the second ring are in the central space, and a second working surface of at least one working surface of the first segment, which is spaced apart from the first working surface and is engageable with a second receiving surface among a plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring. In one exemplary embodiment, the first mounting member on the second segment comprises a third working surface of at least one working surface of the second segment, which is engageable with a first receiving surface on the first ring, and a fourth working surface of at least one working surface of the second segment, which is spaced apart from the third working surface and is engageable with a second receiving surface on the second ring.

[0018] For example, the joint may further include a third receiving surface extending over a portion of a first ring adjacent to a first groove, and a fourth receiving surface extending over a portion of a second ring adjacent to a second groove. The second mounting member on the first segment includes a fifth working surface engageable with the third receiving surface on the first ring, and a sixth working surface spaced apart from the fifth working surface and engaged with the fourth receiving surface on the second ring. The second mounting member on the second segment includes a seventh working surface engageable with the third receiving surface on the first ring, and an eighth working surface spaced apart from the seventh working surface and engaged with the fourth receiving surface on the second ring. For example, the first, second, third, and fourth receiving surfaces include flat surfaces, each flat surface extending through the chord of the ring. As a further example, the first and third receiving surfaces are located on opposite sides of the first ring, and the second and fourth receiving surfaces are located on opposite sides of the second ring.

[0019] In one exemplary embodiment, the first and second working surfaces each have a flat surface that can engage with the first and second receiving surfaces, respectively. The third and fourth working surfaces each have a flat surface that can engage with the first and second receiving surfaces, respectively. The fifth and sixth working surfaces each have a flat surface that can engage with the third and fourth receiving surfaces, respectively. The seventh and eighth working surfaces each have a flat surface that can engage with the third and fourth receiving surfaces, respectively. As an example, for each working surface, the first portion of the working surface is angled toward the second portion of the working surface. As a further example, each first and second mounting member on each segment is toward each of the angular portions of the segment. The angular portions define forming angles in the range of 15° to 35° when measured from one of the curvature centers of the key on each segment. As a further example, each first and second mounting member on each segment corresponds to one angular portion of the segment, respectively. The angular portion defines a forming angle of 25° when measured from one of the curvature centers of the key on each segment.

[0020] One exemplary embodiment further comprises a fifth receiving surface extending over a portion of the first ring adjacent to the first groove, a sixth receiving surface extending over a portion of the second ring adjacent to the second groove, a seventh receiving surface extending over a portion of the first ring adjacent to the first groove, and an eighth receiving surface extending over a portion of the second ring adjacent to the second groove. For example, the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth receiving surfaces have flat surfaces. Each flat surface extends through the chord of the ring. For example, the fifth and seventh receiving surfaces are on opposite sides of the first ring, and the sixth and eighth receiving surfaces are on opposite sides of the second ring.

[0021] This disclosure further encompasses a method for assembling a joint for joining a first pipe element and a second pipe element. As an example, the joint comprises a first ring attachable to the end of the first pipe element. The first ring defines a first groove extending circumferentially around it and a first notch adjacent to the first groove. As an example, the joint comprises a second ring attachable to the end of the second pipe element. The second ring defines a second groove extending circumferentially around it and a first notch adjacent to the second groove. The first segment and the second segment are attachable end-to-end so as to surround a central space. The first segment comprises a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the first segment and projecting toward the central space. The first key and the second key are spaced apart. The first and second projections extend transversely with respect to the first and second keys. The second segment includes the first and second keys, which extend longitudinally along the second segment and project toward the central space. The first and second keys on the second segment are spaced apart. As an example, the method includes positioning the first ring and the second ring with their ends facing each other. As a further example, the method includes lifting the first and second segments, which are positioned with their ends facing each other, surrounding the central space adjacent to the first mounting member of the first segment and the first mounting member of the second segment. As a further example, the method includes pulling the first and second segments apart from each other. As a further example, the method includes lowering the first and second segments on the first and second rings until the first and second rings are positioned within the central space. As a further example, the method includes attaching the second mounting member of the first segment and the second mounting member of the second segment via a first fastener. As a further example, the method includes attaching the first mounting member of the first segment and the first mounting member of the second segment via a second fastener.As a further example, the method includes rotating the mounted first segment and second segment around the first ring and second ring until the first projection and second projection align with the first notch of the first ring and the first notch of the second ring, respectively. As a further example, the method includes tightening the first fastener and second fastener until the first projection and second projection engage with the first notch of the first ring and the first notch of the second ring, respectively.

[0022] For example, the first ring defines a second notch, and the second ring defines a second notch. Further example, the second segment further comprises a first projection and a second projection extending transversely to the first key and the second key. In one exemplary embodiment, the first segment and the second segment are rotated around the first ring and the second ring until the first projection and the second projection align with the second notch of the first ring and the second notch of the second ring, respectively. When the first and second fasteners are tightened, the first projection and the second projection engage with the second notch of the first ring and the second notch of the second ring, respectively. As an example, the first and second notches of the first and second rings comprise a first and second receiving surface extending inward toward the central space, and a third receiving surface extending transversely between them. Further as an example, the first and second projections of the first and second segments comprise a first and second working surface extending outward toward the respective first and second keys, and a third working surface extending transversely between them. For example, when the first and second projections of the first segment engage with the first notches of the first and second rings, and the first and second projections of the second segment engage with the second notches of the first and second rings, the first and second working surfaces engage with the first and second receiving surfaces, respectively, and the third working surface engages with the third receiving surface. In one exemplary embodiment, the third working surface slides on an outer surface extending between the notches of the first and second rings as the first and second segments are rotated around the first and second rings.

[0023] In one exemplary embodiment, the method further includes arranging the seal around the first and second rings such that the seal covers the seam formed between the first and second rings where their ends face each other. For example, the first segment defines a first channel positioned between a first key and a second key on the first segment and extending longitudinally along them. The second segment defines a second channel positioned between a first key and a second key on the second segment and extending longitudinally along them. As yet another example, as the first and second segments are rotated around the first and second rings, a gap is formed between the seal and the first channel and a gap is formed between the seal and the second channel. As yet another example, when the first and second fasteners are tightened, the first and second channels receive the seal.

[0024] In one exemplary embodiment, the first segment and the second segment are lifted at a point between the first mounting member of the first segment and the first mounting member of the second segment.

[0025] The disclosure also includes a joint for joining a first pipe element and a second pipe element. In one exemplary embodiment, the joint comprises a first ring attachable to the end of the first pipe element. The first ring defines a first groove extending circumferentially around it, and a first and second receiving surface adjacent to the first groove. In one exemplary embodiment, the joint comprises a second ring attachable to the end of the second pipe element. The second ring defines a second groove extending circumferentially around it, and a first and second receiving surface adjacent to the second groove. The first and second segments are attachable end-to-end so as to surround a central space. For example, the first segment comprises a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the first segment and projecting toward the central space. The first and second keys are spaced apart. As a further example, the first a-segment comprises a first working surface and a second working surface. As a further example, the second segment comprises a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the second segment and projecting toward the central space. The first key and the second key on the second segment are spaced apart. As a further example, the second segment comprises a first working surface and a second working surface. The first key and the second key of the first and second segments are engageable with the first groove and the second groove, respectively. When the first ring and the second ring are positioned within the central space, the first working surface and the second working surface of the first segment are engageable with the first receiving surface of the first ring and the second ring, respectively, and the first working surface and the second working surface of the second segment are engageable with the second receiving surface of the first ring and the second ring, respectively. For example, the first segment comprises a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends thereof, and the second segment comprises a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends thereof. The first mounting member on the first segment is engageable with the first mounting member on the second segment.The second attachment member on the first segment is engageable with the second attachment member on the second segment for attaching the first segment and the second segment to each other. The present invention submits, for example, the following. (Item 1) A joint for joining a first pipe element and a second pipe element, the joint comprising: A first ring attachable to an end of the first pipe element, the first ring defining a first groove extending circumferentially around it and a plurality of receiving surfaces adjacent to the first groove; A second ring attachable to an end of the second pipe element, the second ring defining a second groove extending circumferentially around it and a plurality of receiving surfaces adjacent to the second groove; A first segment and a second segment attachable end to end so as to surround a central space; Comprising The first segment has a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the first segment and protruding towards the central space, the first key and the second key being spaced apart, and at least one working surface engageable with a receiving surface among the plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring and at least one working surface engageable with a receiving surface among the plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring, the engagement between the working surface and the receiving surface preventing relative rotation of the first pipe element and the second pipe element; The second segment has a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the second segment and protruding towards the central space, the first key and the second key on the second segment being spaced apart; When the first ring and the second ring are positioned within the central space, the first keys and the second keys of the first segment and the second segment are respectively engageable with the first groove and the second groove; A joint comprising: a first segment comprising a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends thereof; a second segment comprising a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends thereof; the first mounting member on the first segment being engageable with the first mounting member on the second segment; and the second mounting member on the first segment being engageable with the second mounting member on the second segment for mounting the first segment and the second segment to each other. (Item 2) The fitting according to item 1, wherein each of the plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring extends along the chord of the first ring, and each of the plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring extends along the chord of the second ring. (Item 3) The second segment described above is The first ring comprises at least one working surface that can engage with one of the plurality of receiving surfaces, The second ring has at least one working surface that can engage with one of the plurality of receiving surfaces and Furthermore, The fitting according to item 1, wherein the engagement between the working surface and the receiving surface prevents the first pipe element and the second pipe element from rotating relative to each other. (Item 4) The first ring defines a first notch and a second notch adjacent to the first groove, and each of the first and second notches comprises a receiving surface among the plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring. The second ring defines a first notch and a second notch adjacent to the second groove, and each of the first notch and the second notch comprises a receiving surface among the plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring. The first segment comprises a first projection and a second projection extending transversely to the first key and the second key, each of the first and second projections comprising an working surface of the at least one working surface of the first segment, the first projection being engageable with the first notch of the first ring, and the second projection being engageable with the first notch of the second ring. The fitting according to item 3, wherein the second segment comprises a first projection and a second projection extending transversely to the first key and the second key, each of the first projection and the second projection having a working surface of the at least one working surface of the second segment, the first projection being engageable with the second notch of the first ring, and the second projection being engageable with the second notch of the second ring. (Item 5) The first ring defines a second notch adjacent to the first groove, and the second notch comprises one of the plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring. The fitting according to item 4, wherein the second ring defines a second notch adjacent to the second groove, and the second notch comprises a receiving surface among the plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring. (Item 6) The joint according to item 5, wherein the first ring and the first notch and the second notch of the second ring each comprise a first receiving surface and a second receiving surface extending inward toward the central space, and a third receiving surface extending transversely between the first receiving surface and the second receiving surface. (Item 7) The fitting according to item 6, wherein the first notch and the second notch of the first ring are located on the opposing side of the first ring, and the first notch and the second notch of the second ring are located on the opposing side of the second ring. (Item 8) The joint according to item 6, wherein the first projection and the second projection of the first segment and the second segment each have a first working surface and a second working surface extending outward away from the first key and the second key, and a third working surface extending transversely between the first working surface and the second working surface. (Item 9) The fitting according to item 8, wherein the first working surface and the second working surface are configured to engage with the first receiving surface and the second receiving surface, respectively, and the third working surface is configured to engage with the third receiving surface. (Item 10) The fitting according to item 1, wherein each mounting member has protrusions defining a first hole and a second hole in a spaced-out relationship, and each hole is adapted to receive an adjustable fastener for attaching the first mounting member on the first segment to the first mounting member on the second segment, and the second mounting member on the first segment to the second mounting member on the second segment. (Item 11) The first segment defines a first channel positioned between the first key and the second key on the first segment and extending longitudinally along the first segment, The second segment defines a second channel positioned between the first key and the second key on the second segment and extending longitudinally along the second segment. The fitting according to item 1, further comprising a seal received within the first channel and the second channel, wherein the seal is engageable with the first ring and the second ring to provide a liquid-tight joint. (Item 12) The fitting according to item 5, wherein the first ring defines a third notch and a fourth notch, and the second ring defines a third notch and a fourth notch. (Item 13) The joint according to item 12, wherein the third and fourth notches of the first and second rings each comprise a first receiving surface and a second receiving surface extending inward toward the central space, and a third receiving surface extending transversely between the first and second receiving surfaces. (Item 14) The fitting according to item 12, wherein the third and fourth notches of the first ring are on the opposing side of the first ring, and the third and fourth notches of the second ring are on the opposing side of the second ring. (Item 15) The joint according to item 1, wherein the first mounting member on the first segment defines a first working surface of the at least one working surface of the first segment, which is engageable with the first receiving surface of the plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring when the first ring and the second ring are in the central space, and a second working surface of the at least one working surface of the first segment, which is spaced apart from the first working surface and is engageable with the second receiving surface of the plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring. (Item 16) The fitting according to item 15, wherein the first mounting member on the second segment comprises a third working surface of the at least one working surface of the second segment that is engageable with the first receiving surface on the first ring, and a fourth working surface of the at least one working surface of the second segment that is spaced apart from the third working surface and is engageable with the second receiving surface on the second ring. (Item 17) A third receiving surface extending over a portion of the first ring adjacent to the first groove, A fourth receiving surface extending over a portion of the second ring adjacent to the second groove and Furthermore, The second mounting member on the first segment comprises a fifth working surface that is engaged with the third receiving surface on the first ring, and a sixth working surface that is spaced apart from the fifth working surface and is engaged with the fourth receiving surface on the second ring. The joint according to item 16, wherein the second mounting member on the second segment comprises a seventh working surface that is engageable with the third receiving surface on the first ring, and an eighth working surface that is spaced apart from the seventh working surface and is engageable with the fourth receiving surface on the second ring. (Item 18) The joint according to item 17, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth receiving surfaces are provided with flat surfaces, each of which extends through the chord of the ring. (Item 19) The fitting according to item 18, wherein the first and third receiving surfaces are on opposite sides of the first ring, and the second and fourth receiving surfaces are on opposite sides of the second ring. (Item 20) The first working surface and the second working surface each have a flat surface that can engage with the first receiving surface and the second receiving surface, respectively. The third working surface and the fourth working surface each have a flat surface that can engage with the first receiving surface and the second receiving surface, respectively. The fifth working surface and the sixth working surface each have flat surfaces that can engage with the third receiving surface and the fourth receiving surface, respectively. The joint according to item 18, wherein the seventh working surface and the eighth working surface each have flat surfaces that can engage with the third receiving surface and the fourth receiving surface, respectively. (Item 21) The joint according to item 20, wherein, for each of the aforementioned working surfaces, the first portion of the working surface is directed at an angle to the second portion of the working surface. (Item 22) The joint according to item 1, wherein each of the first and second mounting members on each of the segments is, respectively, with respect to one angular portion of the segment, the angular portion defines a forming angle in the range of 15° to 35° when measured from one curvature center of the key on each of the segments. (Item 23) The joint according to item 1, wherein each of the first and second mounting members on each of the segments is such that, with respect to each of the angular portions of the segments, the angular portion defines a forming angle of 25° when measured from one of the curvature centers of the keys on each of the segments. (Item 24) A fifth receiving surface extending over a portion of the first ring adjacent to the first groove, A sixth receiving surface extending over a portion of the second ring adjacent to the second groove, A seventh receiving surface extending over a portion of the first ring adjacent to the first groove, An eighth receiving surface extending over a portion of the second ring adjacent to the second groove and The fitting described in item 17 further includes the following: (Item 25) The joint according to item 24, wherein the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth receiving surfaces are flat surfaces, each of which extends through the chord of the ring. (Item 26) The fitting according to item 24, wherein the fifth and seventh receiving surfaces are on opposite sides of the first ring, and the sixth and eighth receiving surfaces are on opposite sides of the second ring. (Item 27) A method for assembling a joint for joining a first pipe element and a second pipe element, wherein the joint comprises: A first ring attachable to the end of the first tubular element, the first ring defining a first groove extending circumferentially around it and a first notch adjacent to the first groove, A second ring attachable to the end of the second tubular element, the second ring defining a second groove extending circumferentially around it and a first notch adjacent to the second groove, A first segment and a second segment that can be attached end to end so as to surround the central space Equipped with, The first segment comprises a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the first segment and projecting toward the central space, wherein the first key and the second key are spaced apart, and a first projection and a second projection extending transversely to the first key and the second key. Equipped with, The second segment comprises a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the second segment and projecting toward the central space, wherein the first key and the second key on the second segment are spaced apart. The aforementioned method, Positioning the first ring and the second ring with their ends facing each other, Lifting the first segment and the second segment, which are positioned by connecting the ends surrounding the central space adjacent to the first mounting member of the first segment and the first mounting member of the second segment, Separating the first segment and the second segment from each other, The first segment and the second segment are lowered on the first ring and the second ring until the first ring and the second ring are positioned within the central space, Attaching the second mounting member of the first segment and the second mounting member of the second segment via the first fastener, Attaching the first mounting member of the first segment and the first mounting member of the second segment via a second fastener, The mounted first segment and the mounted second segment are rotated around the first ring and the second ring until the first projection and the second projection are aligned with the first notch of the first ring and the first notch of the second ring, respectively. The first fastener and the second fastener are tightened until the first projection and the second projection engage with the first notch of the first ring and the first notch of the second ring, respectively. Methods that include... (Item 28) The method according to item 27, wherein the first ring defines a second notch, and the second ring defines a second notch. (Item 29) The method according to item 28, wherein the second segment further comprises a first projection and a second projection extending transversely with respect to the first key and the second key. (Item 30) The method according to item 29, wherein the first segment and the second segment are rotated around the first ring and the second ring until the first projection and the second projection are aligned with the second notch of the first ring and the second notch of the second ring, respectively, and when the first fastener and the second fastener are tightened, the first projection and the second projection engage with the second notch of the first ring and the second notch of the second ring, respectively. (Item 31) The method according to item 30, wherein the first ring and the second ring's first notch and the second notch each comprise a first receiving surface and a second receiving surface extending inward toward the central space, and a third receiving surface extending transversely between the first receiving surface and the second receiving surface. (Item 32) The first segment and the second segment have a first projection and a second projection, A first working surface and a second working surface extending outward away from the respective first and second keys, A third working surface extending transversely between the first working surface and the second working surface and The method according to item 31, comprising: (Item 33) The method according to item 32, wherein the first projection and the second projection of the first segment engage with the first notch of the first ring and the second ring, and the first projection and the second projection of the second segment engage with the second notch of the first ring and the second ring, the first working surface and the second working surface engage with the first receiving surface and the second receiving surface, respectively, and the third working surface engages with the third receiving surface. (Item 34) The method according to item 32, wherein the third working surface slides on an outer surface extending between the notches of the first ring and the second ring as the first segment and the second segment are rotated around the first ring and the second ring. (Item 35) The method according to item 34, further comprising positioning the seal around the first ring and the second ring such that the seal covers the seam formed between the first ring and the second ring where their ends face each other. (Item 36) The method according to item 35, wherein the first segment defines a first channel positioned between the first key and the second key on the first segment and extending longitudinally along the first segment, and the second segment defines a second channel positioned between the first key and the second key on the second segment and extending longitudinally along the second segment. (Item 37) The method according to item 36, wherein a gap is formed between the seal and the first channel and a gap is formed between the seal and the second channel when the first segment and the second segment are rotated around the first ring and the second ring. (Item 38) The method of item 37, wherein when the first fastener and the second fastener are tightened, the first channel and the second channel receive the seal. (Item 39) The method according to item 37, wherein the first segment and the second segment are lifted at a point between the first mounting member of the first segment and the first mounting member of the second segment. (Item 40) A joint for joining a first pipe element and a second pipe element, wherein the joint is A first ring attachable to the end of the first tubular element, the first ring comprising a first groove extending circumferentially around it, and defining a first receiving surface and a second receiving surface adjacent to the first groove, A second ring attachable to the end of the second tubular element, the second ring comprising a second groove extending circumferentially around it, and defining a first receiving surface and a second receiving surface adjacent to the second groove, A first segment and a second segment that can be attached end to end so as to surround the central space Equipped with, The first segment is, A first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the first segment and projecting toward the central space, wherein the first key and the second key are spaced apart, The first surface of action and the second surface of action Equipped with, The second segment described above is A first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the second segment and projecting toward the central space, wherein the first key and the second key on the second segment are spaced apart, The first surface of action and the second surface of action Equipped with, When the first ring and the second ring are positioned within the central space, the first key and the second key of the first segment and the second segment are engageable with the first groove and the second groove, respectively; the first working surface and the second working surface of the first segment are engageable with the first receiving surface of the first ring and the second ring, respectively; and the first working surface and the second working surface of the second segment are engageable with the second receiving surface of the first ring and the second ring, respectively. A joint comprising: a first segment comprising a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends thereof; a second segment comprising a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends thereof; the first mounting member on the first segment being engageable with the first mounting member on the second segment; and the second mounting member on the first segment being engageable with the second mounting member on the second segment for mounting the first segment and the second segment to each other. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0026] Brief explanation of the drawing [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary joint according to the present invention, showing the joint joined to pipe elements.

[0027] [Figure 1A] Figure 1A is a cross-sectional view of the joint shown in Figure 1.

[0028] [Figure 2]Figure 2 is an isometric view of an exemplary joint according to the present invention.

[0029] [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a side view of the joint shown in Figure 2.

[0030] [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a front view of the joint shown in Figure 2.

[0031] [Figure 4A] Figure 4A is a front view of the joint shown in Figure 2.

[0032] [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view along the cutting line 5-5 in Figure 4.

[0033] [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view along the cutting line 6-6 in Figure 4.

[0034] [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an isometric view of the first example ring.

[0035] [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an isometric view of the second example ring.

[0036] [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a side view of the exemplary first ring shown in Figure 7.

[0037] [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a side view of the exemplary second ring shown in Figure 8.

[0038] [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a front view of the first ring, an example shown in Figure 7.

[0039] [Figure 12]Figure 12 is a front view of the second exemplary ring shown in Figure 8.

[0040] [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an isometric view of the first exemplary segment.

[0041] [Figure 14] Figure 14 is an isometric view of the second example segment.

[0042] [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a front view of the exemplary first segment shown in Figure 13.

[0043] [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a front view of the exemplary second segment shown in Figure 14.

[0044] [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a side view of the exemplary first segment shown in Figure 13.

[0045] [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a side view of the exemplary second segment shown in Figure 14.

[0046] [Figure 19] Figures 19 to 24 show an exemplary method for assembling the joint according to the present invention. [Figure 20] Figures 19 to 24 show an exemplary method for assembling the joint according to the present invention. [Figure 21] Figures 19 to 24 show an exemplary method for assembling the joint according to the present invention. [Figure 22] Figures 19 to 24 show an exemplary method for assembling the joint according to the present invention. [Figure 23] Figures 19 to 24 show an exemplary method for assembling the joint according to the present invention. [Figure 24] Figures 19 to 24 show an exemplary method for assembling the joint according to the present invention.

[0047] [Figure 25] Figure 25 is an isometric view of an exemplary joint according to the present invention for joining pipe elements.

[0048] [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a plan view of the joint shown in Figure 25.

[0049] [Figure 26A] Figure 26A is a cross-sectional view of a segment equipped with the joint shown in Figure 26.

[0050] [Figure 26B] Figure 26B is a plan view of the segment with the joint shown in Figure 26.

[0051] [Figure 27] Figure 27 is an exploded isometric view of the segment equipped with the joint shown in Figure 25.

[0052] [Figure 28] Figures 28 and 29 are isometric views of the components of the joint shown in Figure 25. [Figure 29] Figures 28 and 29 are isometric views of the components of the joint shown in Figure 25.

[0053] [Figure 30] Figure 30 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the joint and pipe element shown in Figure 25.

[0054] [Figure 31] Figure 31 is an isometric view of an exemplary joint that allows rotation of a pipe element about its longitudinal axis.

[0055] [Figure 32] Figure 32 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the pipe fitting shown in Figure 31.

[0056] [Figure 33]Figure 33 is an isometric view of an exemplary pipeline comprising pipe elements connected to one another using the fittings shown in Figure 31.

[0057] [Figure 34] Figure 34 is an isometric cross-sectional view of a portion of the joint shown in Figure 31 that is connected to a pipe element.

[0058] [Figure 35] Figure 35 shows an isometric view of an exemplary joint according to the present invention connected to a pipe element.

[0059] [Figure 35A] Figure 35A shows an isometric view of an exemplary joint according to the present invention connected to a pipe element.

[0060] [Figure 36] Figure 36 shows an isometric view of an exemplary first type of non-rotating joint connecting two pipe elements.

[0061] [Figure 36A] Figure 36A shows an isometric view of an exemplary second type of non-rotating joint connecting two pipe elements.

[0062] [Figure 37] Figure 37 is an isometric view of an exemplary joint according to the present invention having a locking mechanism.

[0063] [Figure 38] Figure 38 is an isometric view of an exemplary joint according to the present invention having a locking mechanism.

[0064] [Figure 38A] Figure 38A is an isometric view of an exemplary joint according to the present invention having a locking mechanism.

[0065] [Figure 39] Figure 39 is a schematic plan view of a conduit having a section that is rotated according to an exemplary method of the present invention.

[0066] [Figure 40] Figure 40 is an axial view of a point on the pipeline where the section is supported by a side boom.

[0067] [Figure 41] Figure 41 is an axial view of a point on a pipeline where torque is being applied to a section by a side boom using a sling.

[0068] [Figure 42] Figure 42 is an axial view of a point on a pipeline where torque is being applied to the section by a side boom using a sling connected to a torsion-resistant joint.

[0069] [Figure 42A] Figure 42A is an axial view of a point on the pipeline where torque is being applied to a section by a side boom using a wrench. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0070] Detailed explanation This specification discloses torsion-resistant or anti-rotation joints with reference to Figures 1 to 30. Advantageously, these joints can join pipe elements of various sizes, including large-diameter pipe elements, while preventing rotation of the pipe elements relative to each other along the longitudinal axis that extends the length of the pipe elements. Advantageously, the joints can be designed to reduce rotational slippage at the pipe joint between the pipe elements and the joint.

[0071] Rotary joints are also disclosed with reference to Figures 31 to 38A. Rotary joints can join pipe elements of various sizes, including large diameter pipe elements, while allowing the pipe elements to rotate relative to each other along a longitudinal axis that extends the length of the pipe elements. Rotary joints may include locking mechanisms for selectively preventing pipe elements joined by the rotary joint from rotating relative to each other.

[0072] The torsion-resistant and swivel joints disclosed herein may be used together to join pipelines to form pipeline sections. For example, a pipeline section may include a swivel joint at either end of the section, and the swivel joint may be configured to join the pipeline section to an adjacent pipeline section. The torsion-resistant joint may join pipe elements to each other between the swivel joints. Furthermore, the torsion-resistant joint may join pipe elements within a pipeline section to a swivel joint. A pipeline section joined by torsion-resistant and swivel joints may be rotated relative to an adjacent pipeline section without being separated from the adjacent pipeline section.

[0073] A method for rotating a conduit section is also disclosed herein with reference to Figures 39 to 42A. The conduit section may include pipe elements joined to one another via torsion-resistant joints disclosed herein, and each end of the conduit section is joined to a rotating joint disclosed herein. The method may provide an efficient way to rotate a conduit section without separating or detaching the rotating conduit section from adjacent joined conduit sections, thereby providing an efficient way to extend the life of the conduit section.

[0074] Torsion-resistant joint This specification discloses an exemplary torsion-resistant joint configured to join tubular elements and prevent them from rotating relative to one another. The joint comprises two rings, each attachable to a tubular element to be joined by segments. The segments are attached via adjustable fasteners around the rings and tubular elements. Each segment has a working surface configured to engage with a receiving surface of the ring. The working surface and the receiving surface are designed such that the engagement between the surfaces prevents rotation between the joined rings and tubular elements. If necessary, the receiving surface extends along the chord of each ring.

[0075] Figure 1 shows an exemplary joint 10 for joining a first pipe element 12 and a second pipe element 14 while preventing relative rotation of the pipe elements 12 and 14 around a coaxial longitudinal axis 16. As shown in Figure 1, the joint 10 comprises a first ring 18 that can be attached to the end of the first pipe element 12 and a second ring 20 that can be attached to the end of the second pipe element 14. The attachment of the rings 18 and 20 to the respective pipe elements 12 and 14 can be achieved by welding, but other attachment means are also possible. As shown in Figures 1A and 2, the joint 10 surrounds a central space 40. As shown in Figure 1A, the ends of the pipe elements 12 and 14 can come into contact with each other within the central space 40. During rotation of the pipe elements 12 and 14, the contact between the ends of the pipe elements 12 and 14 can provide frictional resistance against torsion. Torsional friction resistance can prevent or limit rotational slippage between the tube elements 12 and 14. Furthermore, end-to-end contact between the tube elements 12 and 14 provides smooth internal transition between them, thereby minimizing turbulence and leading-edge wear.

[0076] As shown in Figures 7 and 9, the first ring 18 defines a first groove 22 extending circumferentially around the ring 18. As shown in Figure 11, the first ring 18 also defines one or more notches adjacent to the first groove 22, four notches 24, 25, 26, and 27 in this example. The notches 24, 25, 26, and 27 may be arranged around the first ring 18 at 90° intervals from each other. Each notch 24, 25, 26, and 27 may comprise a first receiving surface 28 and a second receiving surface 29 extending inward toward the central space 40, and a third receiving surface 37 extending transversely between the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29. If necessary, the third receiving surface 37 may extend perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly (e.g., within 10 degrees from the perpendicular) to the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29. If necessary, the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29 may extend along the respective chords of the first ring 18, the chords extending through the central space 40. If necessary, the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29 may taper inward toward each other as they approach the third receiving surface 37.

[0077] In this exemplary embodiment, the second ring 20 is identical to the first ring 18 and defines a second groove 30 extending circumferentially around the second ring, as shown in Figures 8 and 10. Similar to the first ring 18, the second ring 20 defines one or more notches 32, 33, 34, and 35 adjacent to the second groove 30, which may be arranged 90° apart from each other around the second ring 20 (see Figure 12). The notches 32, 33, 34, and 35 also in this case comprise a first receiving surface 28 and a second receiving surface 29 extending inward toward the central space 40, and a third receiving surface 37 extending transversely between the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29. If necessary, the third receiving surface 37 may extend perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly (e.g., within 10 degrees from the perpendicular) to the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29. If necessary, the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29 may extend along the respective chords of the second ring 20, the chords extending through the central space 40. If necessary, the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29 may taper inward toward each other as they approach the third receiving surface 37. More or fewer notches arranged in pairs at angular intervals around the rings are feasible, so the rings 18 and 20 are not limited to four notches. If necessary, the rings 18, 20 may include flat sections 21 to provide a flat reference for consistent leveling during assembly to the tubular elements 12, 14. In this example, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the flat portion 21 may be positioned directly adjacent to the notches 32, 33, 34, and 35.

[0078] As shown in Figures 1 to 6, the joint 10 also includes a first segment 36 and a second segment 38 that can be fitted end-to-end to surround the central space 40. As shown in Figure 13, the first segment 36 includes, in this example, a first key 42 and a second key 44 that extend longitudinally along the first segment and take the form of arched projections projecting toward the central space 40. The first key 42 and the second key 44 are spaced apart so as to engage with the first groove 22 and the second groove 30 defined in the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 when the ring is positioned within the central space 40, as shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0079] The second segment 38 may be identical to the first segment 36, as in the exemplary joint embodiment 10 shown in Figure 1, and includes a first key 46 and a second key 48 that extend longitudinally along the second segment 38 and project toward the central space 40, as shown in Figures 3 and 6. The first key 46 and the second key 48 on the second segment 38 are spaced apart so as to engage with the first groove 22 and the second groove 30 defined in the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 when the ring is positioned within the central space 40, as shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0080] As shown in Figures 13, 15, and 17, the first segment 36 includes a first projection 60 and a second projection 62 extending transversely to the first key 42 and the second key 44. Optionally, the first projection 60 and the second projection 62 extend perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly (e.g., within 10 degrees from the perpendicular) to the first key 42 and the second key 44. As shown in Figures 2 and 5, the first projection 60 and the second projection 62 are positioned to engage with first notches 24, 32 defined in the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 when the ring is positioned within the central space 40. As shown in Figures 14, 16, and 18, the second segment 38 includes a first projection 64 and a second projection 66 extending transversely to the first key 46 and the second key 48. If necessary, the first projection 64 and the second projection 66 extend perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly (e.g., within 10 degrees from the vertical) to the first key 46 and the second key 48. As shown in Figure 5, the first projection 64 and the second projection 66 of the second segment 38 are positioned to engage with the second notches 25, 33 defined in the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 when the ring is positioned within the central space 40. As shown in Figures 13 to 18, each of the projections 60, 62, 64, and 66 may have a first working surface 72 and a second working surface 74 extending outward away from the respective first keys 42, 46 and the second keys 44, 48, and a third working surface 76 extending transversely between the first working surface 72 and the second working surface 74. If necessary, the third working surface 76 may extend perpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly (e.g., within 10 degrees from the vertical) between the first working surface 72 and the second working surface 74. As shown in Figures 2, 4, and 5, the first working surface 72 and the second working surface 74 may be configured to engage with the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29, respectively. It is advantageous that the first working surface 72 and the second working surface 74 are oriented to coincide with the orientation of the first receiving surface 28 and the second receiving surface 29, respectively, in order to optimize contact and engagement between the working surfaces 72, 74 and the receiving surfaces 28, 29.If necessary, the third working surface 76 may be configured to engage with the third receiving surface 37. The engagements between the first working surfaces 72 and the second working surfaces 74 and the first receiving surfaces 28 and the second receiving surfaces 29 prevent the first pipe element 12 and the second pipe element 14 from rotating relative to each other around the longitudinal axis 16, respectively. The engagements between the first working surfaces 72 and the second working surfaces 74 and the first receiving surfaces 28 and the second receiving surfaces 29 allow torque to be transmitted through the pipe elements 12 and 14 while reducing relative slip.

[0081] Each notch 24, 25, 26, 27 of the first ring 18 may be configured to receive the first projection 60 of the first segment 36 and the first projection 64 of the second segment 38, and each notch 32, 33, 34, 35 of the second ring 20 may be configured to receive the second projection 62 of the first segment 36 and the second projection 66 of the second segment 38. The use of multiple pairs of notches on each ring 18, 20 allows for effective mechanical engagement between the segments 36 and 38 and the rings 18, 20, and also allows the tubular elements 12, 14 to which the rings 18, 20 are attached to rotate or "clock" over angular intervals about the longitudinal axis 16 of the tubular elements relative to the segments 36 and 38, as defined by the number of pairs of notches. In this example, the tubular elements may clock over 90° intervals, which coincide with a 90° angular separation between pairs of notches. The ability to clock the pipe element allows the pipe element to be rotated in a way that more evenly distributes abrasive wear on the inner surface of the pipe element while maintaining the orientation of the fitting segments 36 and 38 (thereby increasing the service life of the pipe element). This may also be advantageous if the fitting 10 is detached at the end of the portion to be clocked, as this allows for convenient access to the fasteners connecting the segments after repeated clocking of the pipe element, which may not be possible if the segments are rotated with the pipe element when clocked.

[0082] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the first segment 36 includes a first mounting member 50 and a second mounting member 52 positioned at both ends thereof. The second segment 38 also includes a first mounting member 54 and a second mounting member 56 positioned at both ends thereof. The first mounting member 50 on the first segment 36 is engageable with the first mounting member 54 on the second segment 38. Similarly, the second mounting member 52 on the first segment 36 is engageable with the second mounting member 56 on the second segment 38. The mounting members attach the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 to each other.

[0083] In this exemplary embodiment, each mounting member 50, 52, 54, 56 is provided with a projection 80 (see Figures 13 and 14) that defines a spaced-apart relationship between the first hole 82 and the second hole 84. Each hole is adapted to receive an adjustable fastener 61 for mounting the first mounting member 50 on the first segment 36 to the first mounting member 54 on the second segment 38, and for mounting the second mounting member 52 on the first segment 36 to the second mounting member 56 on the second segment 38. As shown in Figures 2 and 4, at least one adjustable fastener 61 may extend through the first mounting members 50, 54 on the first segment 36 and the second segment 38, and at least one adjustable fastener 61 may extend through the second mounting members 52, 56 on the first segment 36 and the second segment 38. Tightening the adjustable fastener 61 can pull segments 36, 38 toward each other around the pipe elements 12, 14, as shown in Figures 1 and 1A. As shown in Figure 2, when the adjustable fastener 61 is tightened, a gap may remain between the stop surface 53 of the first segment 36 and the stop surface 53 of the second segment 38. As shown in Figure 1A, tightening the adjustable fastener 61 results in engagement between the first keys 42, 46 of the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 and the first groove 22, as well as engagement between the second keys 44, 48 of the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 and the second groove 30.

[0084] If necessary, in one exemplary embodiment, engagement of first keys 42, 46 with first grooves 22, and engagement of second keys 44, 48 with second grooves may provide a wedge effect to the ends of the pipe elements 12, 14 so as to drive the ends of the pipe elements 12, 14 toward each other. Advantageously, the wedge effect may compressively preload the pipe ends, thereby creating a rigid joint 10 with no gap between the rings 18, 20 and segments 36, 38, and clamping the abutting ends of the pipe elements 12, 14 toward each other. The compressively preloaded pipe-to-pipe interface may remain closed under the influence of axial pressure, i.e., the gap between the pipe elements 12, 14 remains zero. If necessary, the interface may remain closed under axial pressure and / or other loads up to at least 750 psi. The joint 10 according to this disclosure may include structural components that prevent rotation of the pipe elements toward each other, produce a wedge effect to the ends of the pipe elements, or both.

[0085] As shown in Figure 4, the first mounting member 50 and the second mounting member 52 of the first segment 36 may be positioned on the segment 36 at a distance L1 from the vertex of the first segment 36. The first mounting member 54 and the second mounting member 56 of the second segment 38 may be positioned on the segment 38 at a distance L2 from the vertex of the second segment 38. As shown in Figure 4, the holes 82, 84 of the protrusions 80 of the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 are arranged coaxially with each adjustable fastener 61 that extends along the first axis 85. The first axis 85 is positioned at a distance L3 from the first plane 102. The first plane 102 includes the longitudinal axis 16 and extends perpendicularly to the second plane 103 which includes the longitudinal axis and extends perpendicularly to the first axis 85. Distances L1 and L2 can be between 8 and 20 inches, respectively, depending on the diameter of the joint. It is advantageous to minimize L1 and L2 to reduce L3, thereby reducing the bending of the mounting members 50, 52, 54, 56 and the adjustable fasteners 61. If necessary, referring to Figures 4A and 6, in order to reduce the bending of the mounting members 50, 52, 54, 56 and the fasteners 61, at least a portion of each first shaft 85 may be positioned at a distance of less than or equal to the diameter of the fastener 61 from a point on the circumference of circle 110 defined by the centroid 106 of the first segment 36 and the centroid 108 of the second segment 38. As shown in Figure 6, the centroid 106 of the first segment 36 and the centroid 108 of the second segment 38 are the area centroids of the exposed surfaces of segments 36 and 38 resulting from the cross-section line 6-6 shown in Figures 4 and 4A. The cross-section line 6-6 extends through the longitudinal axis 16. The cross-section line 6-6 may extend through the longitudinal axis 16, through the first segment 36 between the first projection 60 and the second projection 62 and the first mounting member 50, and through the second segment 38 between the first projection 64 and the second projection 66 and the second mounting member 56.The cross-section line 6-6 may extend through the longitudinal axis 16, through the first segment 36 between the first mounting member 50 and the second mounting member 52, and through the second segment 38 between the first mounting member 54 and the second mounting member 56, at the location that provides the minimum area of ​​the exposed surface of segments 36, 38. The angle 105 between the first plane 102 and the cross-section line 6-6 may be in the range of 5 to 80 degrees. If necessary, in order to reduce bending of the mounting members 50, 52, 54, 56 and the fasteners 61, at least a portion of each first axis 85 may be positioned less than or equal to the diameter of the respective holes 82, 84 from a point on the circumference of the circle 110 defined by the centroid 106 of the first segment 36 and the centroid 108 of the second segment 38. If necessary, to reduce bending of the mounting members 50, 52, 54, 56 and fasteners 61, the distance between a point on each first axis 85 and the longitudinal axis 16 is less than or equal to the radius plus the diameter of the respective holes 82, 84, and the radius is equal to the radius of the circle 110 defined by the centroid 106 of the first segment 36 and the centroid 108 of the second segment 38. If necessary, to reduce bending of the mounting members 50, 52, 54, 56 and fasteners 61, the distance between a point on each first axis 85 and the longitudinal axis 16 is less than or equal to the radius plus the diameter of the fastener 61, and the radius is equal to the radius of the circle 110 defined by the centroid 106 of the first segment 36 and the centroid 108 of the second segment 38. If necessary, in order to reduce bending of the mounting members 50, 52, 54, 56 and the fasteners 61, each first shaft 85 is located at a first distance from the inner edge of the respective protrusion 80 closest to the central space 40 and at a second distance from the outer edge of the respective protrusion 80 furthest from the central space 40. The ratio of the first distance to the second distance may be 0.333 to 0.5.

[0086] As shown in Figures 15 and 16, each segment 36, 38 may have a stop face 53 at either end. When the adjustable fastener 61 is tightened, at least a portion of the stop face 53 of the first segment 36 may contact at least a portion of the stop face 53 of the second segment 38. Alternatively, when the adjustable fastener 61 is tightened, a gap may exist between the stop face 53 of the first segment 36 and the stop face 53 of the second segment 38. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, each stop face 53 may have a recess 55. As shown in Figure 4, when the segments 36, 38 are pulled together, the recesses 55 of the stop faces 53 may define slots 57 adapted to receive tools such as pry bars or flange spreaders, which may be used to pry open the joint 10 if necessary. If necessary, tools such as gauges may be used to measure the slots 57 and verify proper fitting.

[0087] As shown in Figures 15 and 16, each segment 36, 38 may have a number of openings 94a–94c that can be used to assemble the fitting 10 as described herein. In this example shown in Figures 15 and 16, the openings 94a–94c may extend through one or more gussets 96 connected to the segments 36, 38. The openings 94a–94c may be located at different positions around the circumference of the segments 36, 38 to provide mounting points for equipment to lift the fitting 10 and rotate the pipeline section. A standard lifting opening 94a may be located in a position advantageous for lifting the segments 36, 38 in an orientation that allows a fastener 61 to be inserted perpendicularly into the holes 82, 84. A rotating opening 94b may be located in a relatively thick section of the segments 36, 38 and may have a larger diameter than the lifting opening 94a so that it can be used to rotate the pipeline segment when the fitting 10 is fully fitted. The clamshell opening 94c may be advantageously positioned between the stop surface 53 and the mounting members 50, 52, 54, 56 to assist in the mounting of the joint 10 using a sling and to allow the fastener 61 to be inserted horizontally into the holes 82, 84. The clamshell opening 94c may be positioned so that the fastener 61 can be easily inserted into the holes 82, 84 while it is attached to the lifting equipment and without interference from the lifting equipment such as a shackle and / or (one or more) slings.

[0088] As shown in Figure 13, the first segment 36 defines a first channel 88 positioned between the first key 42 and the second key 44 on the first segment. The channel 88 extends longitudinally along the first segment 36. As shown in Figure 14, the second segment 38 defines a second channel 90 positioned between the first key 46 and the second key 48 on the second segment 38. The second channel 90 extends longitudinally along the second segment 38. As shown in Figure 6, the seal 92 is received within the first channel 88 and the second channel 90. The seal 92 is engageable with the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 to provide a liquid-tight joint between the pipe element 12 and the pipe element 14.

[0089] Figures 19–24 illustrate an exemplary method for assembling the joint 10 disclosed herein. The method for assembling the joint 10 disclosed herein may also be called the “clamshelling” method. As shown in Figure 19, the method includes positioning the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 (the first ring 18 is shown) end-to-end. The method may further include positioning the seal 92 around the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 such that the seal 92 covers the joint formed between the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 as end-to-end (as shown in Figures 5 and 6). As shown in Figure 19, the method includes lifting the end-to-end positioned first segment 36 and second segment 38 surrounding a central space 40 adjacent to the first mounting member 50 of the first segment 36 and the first mounting member 54 of the second segment 38. If necessary, the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 may be lifted between the first mounting member 50 of the first segment 36 and the stop surface 53 of the first segment 36, and between the first mounting member 54 of the second segment 38 and the stop surface 53 of the second segment 38. The first segment 36 and the second segment 38 may be lifted at the point between the first mounting member 50 of the first segment 36 and the first mounting member 54 of the second segment 38. If necessary, the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 may be lifted via a sling 100 attached to a shackle connected to the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 through a clamshell opening 94c. The sling 100 may be connected to lifting equipment such as a crane. As shown in Figure 19, the location of the clamshell opening 94c is advantageous in that the opposing ends of the first segment 36 and the second segment 38, which are close to the second mounting members 52, 56, can be suspended closer to each other than the ends close to the lifting location. If necessary, as shown in Figure 19, the second mounting member 52, 56The ends of the first segment 36 and the second segment 38, which are in close proximity, may be in contact with each other.

[0090] As shown in Figures 20 and 21, the method includes separating the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 from each other and lowering the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 onto the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 until the first ring 18 and the second ring 20 are positioned within the central space 40. As shown in Figure 21, once the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 have been fully lowered onto the rings 18 and 20 and the rings 18 and 20 are positioned within the central space 40, the opposing ends of the first segment 36 and the second segment 38 that are close to the second mounting members 52 and 56 can return to their close relative positions, or substantially return to their close relative positions, thereby allowing for easy insertion of the fastener 61. Due to the location of the lifting point, more specifically the location of the clamshell opening 94c, the opposing ends can return to a position relatively close to each other without manually pressing segments 36, 38 against each other to insert the fastener 61.

[0091] As shown in Figure 22, the method includes attaching the second mounting member 52 of the first segment 36 and the second mounting member 56 of the second segment 38 via the fastener 61. The method also includes attaching the first mounting member 50 of the first segment 36 and the first mounting member 54 of the second segment 38 via the fastener 61. If necessary, after the second mounting members 52, 56 are attached, the sling 100 may be lifted again to force the ends near the lifting point together, allowing the fastener 61 to be easily attached for attaching the first mounting members 50, 54. After the fastener 61 is attached, the sling 100 can be removed.

[0092] As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the method includes rotating the mounted first segment 36 and second segment 38 around the first ring 18 and second ring 20 until the first projection 60 and second projection 62 of the first segment 36 are aligned with the first notch 24 of the first ring 18 and the first notch 32 of the second ring 20, respectively. The method may also include rotating the mounted first segment 36 and second segment 38 around the first ring 18 and second ring 20 until the first projection 64 and second projection 66 of the second segment 38 are aligned with the second notch 25 of the first ring 18 and the second notch 33 of the second ring 20, respectively. The partially assembled joint 10 may be rotated around the rings 18 and 20 to favorably orient the fastener 61 vertically. In this position, the fastener 61 can be more easily fully tightened. During rotation, the third working surface 76 can slide on the outer surface 19 of the rings 18, 20. The outer surface 19 of the rings 18, 20 extending between the notches provides a guide surface for the third working surface 76 of the projection to rest on, stabilizing and guiding the segments 36, 38 and providing space between the segments and the seal 92 when the segments 36, 38 are rotated relative to the rings 18, 20 and the tubular element. The outer surface 19 has a diameter larger than the outer diameter of the seal 92, thereby creating a gap or space between the channels 88, 90 and the seal 92. The gap or space between the channels 88, 90 and the seal 92 can prevent the rotation of the segments 36, 38 from damaging or displacing the seal 92. Furthermore, the gap or space can reduce friction between the seal 92 and the segments 36, 38, allowing the segments 36, 38 to rotate more easily around the rings 18, 20.

[0093] As shown in Figure 4, after the projections 60, 62, 64, and 66 are positioned in place, the method may include tightening the fastener 61 until the first projection 60 and the second projection 62 of the first segment 36 engage with the first notch 24 of the first ring 18 and the first notch 32 of the second ring 20, respectively. When the fastener 61 is tightened, the first projection 64 and the second projection 66 of the second segment 38 engage with the second notch 25 of the first ring 18 and the second notch 33 of the second ring 20, respectively. Tightening the fastener 61 may also result in the engagement of the keys 42, 44, 46, and 48 of the segments 36 and 38 with the grooves 22 and 30 of the rings 18 and 20. When the fastener 61 is tightened, the first channel 88 and the second channel 90 may receive a seal 92. When the fastener 61 is tightened, the first channel 88 and the second channel 90 are pulled toward the rings 18, 20 and the seal 92 positioned around the rings 18, 20. As the channels 88, 90 are pulled toward the rings 18, 20 and the seal 92, the seal 92 may be placed within the channels 88, 90.

[0094] Figures 25 and 26 show an exemplary joint 210 for joining a first pipe element 212 and a second pipe element 214 while preventing relative rotation of the pipe elements about a coaxial longitudinal axis 216. As shown in Figure 25, the joint 210 comprises a first ring 218 that can be attached to the end of the first pipe element 212 and a second ring 220 that can be attached to the end of the second pipe element 214. The attachment of the rings 218 and 220 to the respective pipe elements 212 and 214 can be achieved by welding, but other attachment means are also possible. As shown in Figures 28 and 30, the first ring 218 defines a first groove 222 that extends circumferentially around the ring. As shown in Figure 28, the first ring 218 also defines one or more receiving surfaces, in this example four receiving surfaces 224, 225, 226 and 227. Each receiving surface 224, 225, 226, and 227 extends across the respective portion of the first ring 218 adjacent to the first groove 222. In this exemplary embodiment, the receiving surfaces 224, 225, 226, and 227 are provided with a flat surface 228, each flat surface extending along the chord of the ring 218. The receiving surfaces are arranged around the first ring 218 at 90° intervals from each other. In this exemplary embodiment, the second ring 220 is identical to the first ring 218 and defines a second groove 230 extending circumferentially around the second ring, as shown in Figures 29 and 30. Similar to ring 218, the four receiving surfaces 232, 233, 234, and 235 extend across each portion of the second ring 220 (see Figure 28), and the receiving surfaces also comprise flat surfaces 228, each of which extends along the chord of ring 220 and is arranged around the second ring 220 at 90° intervals from one another. Since either more or fewer surfaces arranged in pairs at angular intervals around the ring are feasible, rings 218 and 220 are not limited to four receiving surfaces.

[0095] As shown in Figures 25 and 26, the joint 210 also includes a first segment 236 and a second segment 238 that can be fitted end-to-end to surround the central space 240. As shown in Figures 27 and 30, the first segment 236 includes a first key 242 and a second key 244, in this example, which take the form of arched projections that extend longitudinally along the first segment and project toward the central space 240. The first key 242 and the second key 244 are spaced apart so as to engage with the first groove 222 and the second groove 230 defined in the first ring 218 and the second ring 220 when the ring is positioned within the central space 240, as shown in Figure 30.

[0096] The second segment 238 is the first segment, as shown in the exemplary joint embodiment 210 in Figure 25. 236 The first key 246 and the second key 248 may be identical to the first key 248, and as shown in Figures 27 and 30, they extend longitudinally along the second segment 238 and project toward the central space 240. The first key 246 and the second key 248 on the second segment 238 are spaced apart so as to engage with the first groove 222 and the second groove 230 defined in the first ring 218 and the second ring 220 when the ring is positioned within the central space 240, as shown in Figure 30.

[0097] As shown in Figures 25 and 26, the first segment 236 includes a first mounting member 250 and a second mounting member 252 positioned at both ends thereof. The second segment 238 also includes a first mounting member 254 and a second mounting member 256 positioned at both ends thereof. The first mounting member 250 on the first segment 236 is engageable with the first mounting member 254 on the second segment 238. Similarly, the second mounting member 252 on the first segment 236 is engageable with the second mounting member 256 on the second segment 238, and the mounting members attach the first segment 236 and the second segment 238 to each other. As shown in Figures 25 and 27, the first mounting member 250 on the first segment 236 defines a first working surface 258 that can engage with the first receiving surface 224 on the first ring 218 when the first ring 218 and the second ring 220 are within the central space 240, and a second working surface 260 that is spaced apart from the first working surface 258 and can engage with the second receiving surface 232 (invisible) on the second ring 220. The engagement between the working surfaces 258, 260 and the receiving surfaces 224 and 232 prevents the first pipe element 212 and the second pipe element 214 from rotating relative to each other about the longitudinal axis 216.

[0098] It is considered advantageous for multiple working surfaces to engage with their respective receiving surfaces. Therefore, in this exemplary embodiment, as shown in Figures 25, 26, and 27, the first mounting member 254 on the second segment 238 includes a third working surface 262 that can engage with the first receiving surface 224 on the first ring 218, and a fourth working surface 264 that is spaced apart from the third working surface 262 and can engage with the second receiving surface 232 (invisible) on the second ring 220. It is also advantageous for the working surfaces to engage with the receiving surfaces on opposing sides of the rings 218 and 220. Therefore, as shown in Figures 28 and 29, the third receiving surface 226 extends over a portion of the first ring 218 adjacent to the first groove 222, and the fourth receiving surface 234 extends over a portion of the second ring 220 adjacent to the second groove 230. As shown in Figures 26 and 27, the second mounting member 252 on the first segment 236 has a fifth working surface 266 that can engage with the third receiving surface 226 on the first ring 218, as shown in Figures 26 and 28. As shown in Figure 27, the sixth working surface 268 is spaced apart from the fifth working surface 266 and can engage with the fourth receiving surface 234 of the receiving surfaces on the second ring 220, as shown in Figure 29. As shown in Figures 26 and 27, the second mounting member 256 on the second segment 238 has a seventh working surface 270 that can engage with the third receiving surface 226 on the first ring 218, and an eighth working surface 272 that is spaced apart from the seventh working surface 270 and can engage with the fourth receiving surface 234 on the second ring 220 (see Figure 29).

[0099] For the fit and effective engagement between the working surface and the receiving surface, as described above, the receiving surface 2 24, 225, 226, and 227, as well as,It is advantageous that 232, 233, 234, and 235 have a flat surface 228, each flat surface extending along the chords of rings 218 and 220. For advantageous mating engagement to prevent relative rotation between tube elements 212 and 214 about the longitudinal axis 216, in this exemplary embodiment, the first to eighth working surfaces 258, 260, 262, 264, 266, 268, 270, and 272 also have a flat surface 274 that can mating engage with their respective receiving surfaces.

[0100] As shown in Figures 26 and 27, in this exemplary embodiment, for each working surface, the first portion 276 of the working surface is oriented at an angle to the second portion 278 of the working surface. The angular orientation of the first portion 276 serves as an introduction that guides the rings 218 and 220 into segments 236 and 238 when the joint 210 is assembled.

[0101] The receiving surfaces on each ring 218, 220 function as opposing pairs to engage with the eight working surfaces of segments 236 and 238. It is advantageous to include multiple pairs of receiving surfaces on each ring 218, ring 220. In this example, ring 218 has two sets of pairs of receiving surfaces, namely, a pair of receiving surfaces 224 and 226, and a pair of receiving surfaces 225 and 227. Similarly, ring 220 has a pair of receiving surfaces 232 and 234, and a pair of receiving surfaces 233 and 235. Using multiple pairs of receiving surfaces on each ring 218, 220 allows for effective mechanical engagement between segments 236 and 238 and the rings, and also allows the tubular element to which the rings are attached to rotate or "clock" over angular intervals about the longitudinal axis of the tubular element relative to segments 236 and 238, as defined by the number of pairs of receiving surfaces. In this example, the pipe element can be clocked over a 90° interval, corresponding to a 90° angular separation between the pair of receiving faces. The ability to clock the pipe element allows it to be rotated to more evenly distribute abrasive wear on the inner surface of the pipe element while maintaining the orientation of fitting segments 236 and 238 (thereby increasing the service life of the pipe element). This is advantageous because it allows for convenient access to the fasteners connecting the segments after repeated clocking of the pipe element, which may not be possible if the segments are rotated with the pipe element when the segments are clocked.

[0102] In this exemplary embodiment, each mounting member 250, 252, 254, and 256 includes a projection 280 (see Figures 25 and 26) that defines the first hole 282 and the second hole 284 in a spaced-out relationship. Each hole is adapted to receive an adjustable fastener 286 for attaching the first mounting member 250 on the first segment 236 to the first mounting member 254 on the second segment 238, and for attaching the second mounting member 252 on the first segment 236 to the second mounting member 256 on the second segment 238.

[0103] It is considered advantageous to minimize the distance between the neutral axis of the segment's cross-section and a point such as the centerline on the cross-section of the fastener that connects the segments. Minimizing this distance reduces the bending moment applied to the fastener due to the internal pressure within the ring that attempts to separate the segments forming the pipe joint. A smaller bending moment allows for various design trade-offs, such as smaller diameter fasteners, less expensive fasteners made of lower-strength materials, or increased pressure load performance for a given fastener-fitting combination. Prior art fittings are limited in their ability to position the fastener centerline near the neutral axis of the fitting segments due to the size of the fastener and its head (such as bolt heads and nuts), as well as the need to provide clearance for access to the fastener and for the tools used to install the fastener.

[0104] Figure 26A also illustrates another method for specifying a favorable mounting configuration. In this example, the relationship between the radius of a favorable point on the key, measured along one diameter of the ring (18, 20), and the distance from that point on the key to a favorable point on the fastener is used as an alternative to minimizing the distance between the neutral axis of the segment and the fastener, which is independent of the specific cross-section of the joint. The diameter line of ring 218 is shown as an example in Figure 26A. to The distance K measured along the axis between a point 289 midway between the root 291 of the key 246 and the free end 293 of the key 246 and a point 295 on the centerline 297 of the fastener 286 can be compared to the distance R between point 289 and the center of curvature of the key 246 at axis 239 by dividing distance K by distance R. This ratio represents the relative proximity of the bolt to the key with respect to the radius of the key, and therefore generally the radius of the tube to be joined. This is expected to provide advantages when the R / K ratio is greater than 23, and even greater when the ratio is greater than 5, for example, between 5 and 6.

[0105] Another example defining a favorable configuration for pipe joint segments is shown in Figure 26B. In this example, mounting members on segments 236 and 238 (mounting members 256 and 258 on segment 238 are shown) are keys 242, 244 (segment 236), and key 246 and 248 (Segment 238) but The axis that is the center of curvature (as shown in the diagram) 239 When measured from the relatively large angular portion of each segment, the forming angles 241 of the mounting members 250, 252, 254, and 256 (254 and 256 are shown) range from 15° to about 35°, with a forming angle of 25° being considered favorable. In this example, the relatively large angles formed by mounting members 256 and 258 allow the centerline 283 of the fastener 286 to be positioned relatively close to the key 246, in which case the support surfaces 257 on mounting members 256 and 258 are positioned favorably away from the mating plane 245. This positioning is favorable because as the support surfaces 257 are further away from the plane 245, the clearance between the outer surface of segment 238 and the nut 247 of the fastener 286 increases.

[0106] As shown in Figures 27 and 30, the first segment 236 defines a first channel 288 positioned between the first key 242 and the second key 244 on the first segment. The channel 288 extends longitudinally along the first segment 236. The second segment 238 defines a second channel 290 positioned between the first key 246 and the second key 248 on the second segment 238. The second channel 290 extends longitudinally along the second segment 238. As shown in Figure 30, the seal 292 is received within the first channel 288 and the second channel 290. The seal 292 is engageable with the first ring 218 and the second ring 220 to provide a liquid-tight joint between the pipe element 212 and the pipe element 214.

[0107] The pipe joint according to the present invention is expected to eliminate various drawbacks associated with rotating pipeline sections, thereby improving the efficiency and safety of such operations.

[0108] Rotary joint This specification also discloses exemplary rotary joints configured to join pipe elements together and to allow rotation of the pipe elements relative to each other.

[0109] Figures 31 to 33 show exemplary embodiments of a joint 310 that allows rotation of pipe elements 312 and 314 about a longitudinal axis 316 according to the present invention. As shown in detail in Figure 32, the exemplary joint 310 comprises a first ring 318 that can be attached to a first of the pipe elements, the first ring 318 comprising a first collar 320 that extends circumferentially around the first ring and projects outward therefrom. The first collar 320 defines support surfaces 322 and retaining surfaces 324 that are positioned opposite each other. Surfaces 322 and 324 are oriented transversely with respect to a first ring axis 326 that is coaxial with the first ring 318. If necessary, surfaces 322 and 324 are oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular (e.g., within 10 degrees from the perpendicular) with respect to the first ring axis 326. The first ring 318 may also include a lining 319 that serves as a sacrificial wear surface to protect the first ring from abrasion. The lining 319 may be formed from or include a wear-resistant material such as steel, chromium carbide, and urethane, to name a few, and the lining may be replaceable to allow the ring to be reused.

[0110] The housing 328 defines a through bore 330 surrounding a longitudinal axis 332 arranged coaxially with the bore. The housing 328 has a first end 334 and a second end 336 positioned opposite each other. The housing 328 has a length extending between the first end 334 and the second end 336 along the longitudinal axis 332. The first end 334 of the housing 328 is adapted to coaxially receive the first ring 318 into the housing bore 330. In this exemplary embodiment, the housing includes a first shoulder 338 positioned distal to the first end 334 of the housing (for example, spaced apart from the first end 334 in the direction toward the second end 336 of the housing 328). The first shoulder 338 may be positioned between the first end 334 and the midpoint of the housing 328 between the first end 334 and the second end 336. The first shoulder portion 338 protrudes toward the longitudinal axis 332 and is oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis. If necessary, the first shoulder portion 338 is oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 332 (e.g., within 10 degrees from the perpendicular). The first channel 340 extends circumferentially around the housing 328 and faces the longitudinal axis 332. The first channel 340 is positioned in close proximity to the first end portion 334 of the housing 328, spaced apart from the first shoulder portion 338 (for example, the first channel 340 may be positioned within 10-15% of the length of the housing from the first end portion 334). If necessary, the first channel 340 may be positioned between the first shoulder portion 338 and the first end portion 334. The first retaining ring 342 is positionable within the first channel 340. An exemplary retaining ring 342 suitable for use in the present invention is commercially available from Smalley USA, located in Lake Zurich, Illinois. The retaining ring 342 operates similarly to a snap ring to fit into the bore 330 and then expands radially outward to engage with the channel 340. The first retaining ring 342 protrudes into the bore 330 toward the longitudinal axis 332 of the housing.

[0111] As shown in Figure 32, once the first ring 318 is received into the bore 330 of the housing 328 at its first end 334, the first collar 320 of the first ring 318 is positionable between the first shoulder 338 and the first channel 340 of the housing 328. The first retaining ring 342 is then positionable within the first channel 340. The support surface 322 of the collar 320 is engageable with the first shoulder 338, and the retaining surface 324 of the first collar is engageable with the first retaining ring 342. Thus, the first ring 318 is held axially within the housing 328, but the only resistance to relative rotation between the first ring 318 and the housing 328 about the longitudinal axis 332 of the housing is friction between the housing 328 and the first ring 318.

[0112] Since the joint 310 according to the present invention is intended to allow relative rotation between the first ring 318 and the housing 328 (with any tubular elements attached to the first ring, see Figure 33), it is advantageous to position the first bearing 344 between the housing 328 and the first ring 318. In this example, the first bearing 344 is positioned distal to the first end 334 of the housing 328 (for example, spaced away from the first end 334 in the direction toward the second end 336 of the housing 328). The first bearing 344 may be positioned between the first shoulder 338 and the midpoint of the housing 328 between the first end 334 and the second end 336. To provide the ring 318 with two-point support for smooth rotation, it is advantageous to position the second bearing 346 between the housing 328 and the first ring 318. In this example, the second bearing 346 is positioned between the first collar 320 and the housing. As an example, both the first bearing 344 and the second bearing 346 comprise a first bearing ring 348 and a second bearing ring 350, each of which extends circumferentially around the bore 330. Both the first bearing ring 348 and the second bearing ring 350 are formed of a material having a lower coefficient of friction than either the first ring 318 or the housing 328. In a practical design, the bearing rings 348 and 350 are formed from or contain polytetrafluoroethylene for a low-friction interface between the housing 328 and the first ring 318.

[0113] First ring 318 and housing 328 To provide a liquid-tight seal between the housing 318It is even more advantageous to provide one or more seals 352 between the first ring 328 and the first ring 328. In the exemplary joint embodiment 310 shown in Figure 32, multiple seals are used and positioned distal to the first end 334 of the housing 328 and between the housing and the first collar 320 (for example, spaced apart from the first end 334 in the direction toward the second end 336 of the housing 328). If necessary, the multiple seals may be positioned between the first shoulder 338 and the midpoint of the housing 328 between the first end 334 and the second end 336. In a practical design, the seals 352 may comprise O-rings or similar specially designed seals 354 received in respective circumferential grooves 356 positioned in either the first ring 318 (including the first collar 320) or the housing 328 (illustrated). O-rings or similar specially designed seals may be considered advantageous because they allow relative rotation between the housing and the ring.

[0114] As shown in Figures 31 and 32, the first ring 318 is provided with a first outer groove 358 extending circumferentially around it, in order to allow the first ring 318 to be conveniently coupled to the pipe element. The outer groove 358 is positioned outside the bore 330 of the housing 328 to receive a mating key from the mechanical joint 360, as shown in Figure 34, and to bond the first ring 318, and thus the joint 310, to the first pipe element 312. Alternatively, the first ring 318 may include a flange for coupling to a flanged pipe element, or may be bonded to the first pipe element 312 by other means known in the art.

[0115] As shown in Figure 32, the exemplary joint 310 may further comprise a second ring 362 that can be attached to a second of the pipe elements. The second end 336 of the housing 328 is configured to coaxially receive the second ring 362 into its bore 330 and is a mirror image of the first ring 318. The second ring 362 comprises the same elements as the first ring 318, namely a second ring axis 364 arranged coaxially with the second ring 362, and a second collar 366 extending circumferentially around the second ring and projecting outward therefrom, the second collar 366 defining a support surface 368 and a retaining surface 370 positioned opposite each other, and surfaces 368 and 370 are the second ring 362 The second ring 362 is oriented transversely to a second ring axis 364, which is arranged coaxially with the first ring axis 364. If necessary, surfaces 368 and 370 are oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular (e.g., within 10 degrees from the vertical) to the second ring axis 364. The second ring 362 may also have sacrificial wear surfaces, such as the lining 319 described above. Similarly, the housing 328 further comprises a second shoulder 372 positioned distal to the second end 336 of the housing, the second shoulder projecting toward the longitudinal axis 332 of the housing and oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis (e.g., spaced apart from the second end 336 toward the first end 334 of the housing 328). If necessary, the second shoulder 372 is oriented perpendicular or substantially perpendicular (e.g., within 10 degrees from the vertical) to the longitudinal axis 332 of the housing. The second shoulder 372 may be positioned between the second end 336 and the midpoint of the housing 328 between the first end 334 and the second end 336. The second channel 374 extends circumferentially around the housing 328, faces the longitudinal axis 332, and is positioned close to the second end 336 of the housing 328, spaced apart from the second shoulder 372 (for example, the second channel 374 may be positioned within 10-15% of the length of the housing from the second end 336). If necessary, the second channel 374 may be positioned between the second shoulder 372 and the second end 336. The second retaining ring 376 is the second channel 374The second retaining ring is positionable internally and protrudes into the bore 330 toward the longitudinal axis 332. With respect to the first ring 318, once the second ring 362 is received into the bore 330 at the second end 336 of the housing 328, the second collar 366 is positionable between the second shoulder 372 and the second channel 374, the second retaining ring 376 is then positionable within the second channel 374, the support surface 368 of the second collar 366 is engageable with the second shoulder 372, and the retaining surface 370 of the second collar 366 is engageable with the second retaining ring 376, thereby retaining the second ring 362 within the housing 328.

[0116] An exemplary joint 310 according to the present invention may also include one or more additional seals 378 positioned between the housing 328 and the second ring 362. As shown in Figure 32, the seals 378 are positioned distal to the second end 336 of the housing 328 and between the housing and the second collar 366 (for example, spaced apart from the second end 336 in the direction toward the first end 334 of the housing 328). If necessary, the seals 378 may be positioned between the second shoulder 372 and the midpoint of the housing 328 between the first end 334 and the second end 336. The seals 378 may also include an O-ring 380 received in a circumferential groove 382 positioned in either the second ring 362 (including the second collar 366) or the housing 328 (illustrated).

[0117] To provide support and minimize friction between the second ring 362 and the housing 328, the first and second bearings are positioned between the housing and the second ring. In this example, the first bearing 384 is positioned distal to the second end 336 of the housing 328, and the second bearing 386 is positioned between the second collar 366 and the housing 328 (for example, spaced apart from the second end 336 in the direction toward the first end 334 of the housing 328). The first bearing 384 may be positioned between the second shoulder 372 and the midpoint of the housing 328 between the first end 334 and the second end 336. The bearings 384 and 386 may each comprise a first bearing ring 388 and a second bearing ring 390, respectively, which extend circumferentially around the bore 330. The bearing rings 388 and 390 are advantageously formed from a material having a lower coefficient of friction than either the second ring 362 or the housing 328. In practical designs, the bearing rings 388 and 390 may be formed from or contain polytetrafluoroethylene.

[0118] Similar to the first ring 318, the second ring 362 is provided with an outer groove 392 extending circumferentially around it. The outer groove 392 of the second ring 362 is positioned outside the bore 330 of the housing 328 to receive a mating key from a mechanical joint similar to 360, and the second ring 362, and thus the joint 310, is joined to the second pipe element 314, similar to the joint shown in Figure 34 (see Figure 33). Alternatively, the second ring 362 may include a flange for joining to a flanged pipe element, or may be joined to the second pipe element 314 by other means known in the art.

[0119] Figure 33 shows two exemplary sections 396 and 398 of conduit 400. Sections 396 and 398 comprise pipe elements 312, 402, 404, 406, and 408, and pipe elements 314, 410, 412, 414, and 416, respectively. Each pipe element may be about 50 feet long and is known as a “double random” length pipe. The joint 310 allows sections 396 and 398 to rotate about the longitudinal axis 316 of the pipe elements without separating sections 396 and 398 from conduit 400 or from each other. The joint 310, which allows rotation about the axis 316, is positioned at both ends of each section 396 and 398, and the rotational joint using the joint 310 is shown in Figures 35 and 35A. Pipe elements 312 and 314 are joined to the first ring 318 and the second ring 362, respectively, with a mechanical joint 360, which prevents relative rotation between pipe element 312 and the first ring 318, and between pipe element 314 and the second ring 362. The connection between pipe elements 312, 314 and rings 318, 362 is achieved as shown in Figure 34 when a key 420 of the joint 360 engages with the outer grooves 358 (illustrated) and 392 of ring 318 (illustrated) and ring 362 (see also Figure 31), as well as similar grooves 422 of pipe elements 312 (illustrated) and 314. The non-rotating joint 360 is also used to connect pipe elements of sections 396 and 398 to each other between the joint 310, as shown in Figures 33 and 36 for pipe elements 312 and 402. An exemplary first type of non-rotating joint 361 is shown in Figures 35 and 36. An exemplary second type of non-rotating joint 363 is shown in Figures 35A and 36A. If necessary, the non-rotating joint 361 may be the joint 10 or joint 210 shown in Figures 1 to 30. Note that the pipe elements 312 and 314 cannot rotate relative to the first ring 318 and the second ring 362, but the rings can rotate relative to the housing 328. Thus, all five pipe elements, each comprising sections 396, 398, are fixed when rotating relative to each other, but each section 396, 398 can rotate as a single pipe between the joints 310.Therefore, the joint 310 allows the entire section of the pipeline, which comprises multiple pipe elements, to rotate or "clock" as a single unit in order to ensure uniform wear on the inner surfaces of the pipe elements when the abrasive medium is being transported.

[0120] Figure 37 shows another joint embodiment 424 according to the present invention. Joint 424 differs from joint 310 in that the first ring 318 is spaced apart from the retaining surface 324 (see Figure 32), and also includes a locking surface 426 positioned on the outside of the bore 330 of the housing 328. The locking surface 426 faces away from the bore axis 332. In a further difference, the housing 328 includes a locking tab 428 protruding from the first end 334 of the housing. The locking tab 428 is spaced apart from the locking surface 426 and defines a jamming surface 430 facing the locking surface. The locking body 432 is insertable between the locking surface 426 and the jamming surface 430 so as to engage with both the locking surface 426 and the jamming surface 430 when the locking body 432 is positioned between them, thereby preventing relative rotation between the first ring 318 and the housing 328.

[0121] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the locking surface 426 has a flat surface extending through the chord of the first ring 318, and the jamming surface 430 also has a flat surface on the locking tab 428. In one practical exemplary embodiment, the locking body may include a bar having a flat surface that engages with the flat surfaces of the jamming surface 430 and the locking surface 426.

[0122] Figure 38 shows another joint embodiment 434, in which the first ring 318 has a first locking surface 436 positioned spaced apart from the retaining surface 324 (see Figure 32) on the outside of the bore 330. The first locking surface 436 faces away from the bore axis 332. The second locking surface 438 is positioned spaced apart from the retaining surface 324 on the outside of the bore 330, and the second locking surface also faces away from the bore axis 332. Similarly, the housing 328 has a first locking tab 440 protruding from its first end 334. The first locking tab 440 is spaced apart from the first locking surface 436 and defines a first jamming surface 442 facing the first locking surface. The second locking tab 444 protrudes from the first end 334 of the housing 328 and is spaced apart from the second locking surface 438, defining a second jamming surface 446 facing the second locking surface. The locking body 448 is insertable between the first locking surface 436 and the first jamming surface 442 and between the second locking surface 438 and the second jamming surface 446, so that when the locking body 448 is positioned between them, the locking body 448 engages with the first locking surface 436 and the second locking surface 438 and the first jamming surface 442 and the second jamming surface 446, thereby preventing relative rotation between the first ring 318 and the housing 328.

[0123] In an exemplary joint embodiment 434, the locking surfaces 436, 438 each have a flat surface extending through the respective chords of the first ring 318, and the jamming surfaces 442, 446 each have a flat surface on the first locking tab 440 and the second locking tab 444. In this example, the locking tabs 440 and 444 are positioned opposite each other on the housing 328. This configuration allows the locking body 448 to include a fork 450 having a first claw 452 positionable between the first locking surface 436 and the first jamming surface 442, and a second claw 454 positionable between the second locking surface 438 and the second jamming surface 446.

[0124] Figure 38A shows another joint embodiment 464 according to the present invention. Joint 464 differs from joint 310 in that it also includes at least one notch 466 positioned outside the bore 330 of the housing 328, with the first ring 318 spaced apart from the retaining surface 324 (see Figure 32). The notch 466 faces away from the bore axis 332. The locking body 468 is insertable into a slot 470 of the housing 328 and engages with the notch 466, so that the locking body 468 engages with both the housing 328 and the notch 466 to prevent relative rotation between the first ring 318 and the housing 328.

[0125] For all joint embodiments 424, 434, and 464, the housing and ring are substantially similar to those of embodiment 310, with the exceptions described above. Although the description is drawn with respect to the first end of the housing of exemplary embodiments 424, 434, and 464, it will be understood that the opposite end of the housing may also have the locking mechanism described herein (shown in Figures 37, 38, and 38A). Furthermore, joint embodiments 424, 434, and 464 may have multiple locking surfaces to allow the ring 318 to be repeatedly clocked around the axis 332 to more evenly distribute wear on the inner surface of the ring and around the tubular element connected to the ring.

[0126] Method for rotating a pipeline section This specification further discloses a method for rotating sections of a conduit. Figure 39 shows a portion of an exemplary conduit 510 comprising several sections, with an exemplary section 512 shown in detail. The method disclosed herein allows rotation of each section, for example, section 512, without the ends of each section being separated from adjacent sections. Section 512 has a longitudinal axis 514 arranged coaxially with the bore of the section. Each section 512 comprises several pipe elements, in this example three pipe elements 516, 518, and 520, joined end to end to one another. The three elements constituting section 512 are shown only as an example, as there may be more or fewer pipe elements constituting a section. In practical examples, each pipe element may be as long as 50 feet, and such elements are known as “double random” length pipes.

[0127] Section 512 has a first end 522 connected to conduit 510 by a first joint 524. The first joint 524 allows rotation of section 512 about a longitudinal axis 514 relative to conduit 510. Section 512 has a second end 526 connected to conduit 510 by a second joint 528, which also allows rotation of section 512 about a longitudinal axis 514 relative to conduit 510. In this exemplary embodiment, the first and second joints are known as “rotatable joints” (hereinafter, “rotatable joints”). Rotatable joints 524 and 528 are identical to each other in this example and define the extent of section 512. Rotatable joints 524 and 528 are as needed. 528 These may be joints 310, 424, 434, or 464 disclosed herein and enabling rotation as shown in Figures 31 to 38A.

[0128] In the exemplary section 512, pipe elements 516, 518, and 520 are connected to each other using “torsion-resistant joints,” two of which are shown in Figure 39 and numbered 530 and 532. If necessary, torsion-resistant joints 530 and 532 may be torsion-resistant joints 10 or 210, as disclosed herein and shown in Figures 1 to 30. 530 and torsion-resistant joints 532 (Further described herein) prevents relative rotation between the pipe elements they connect about the longitudinal axis 514. In this example, relative rotation between pipe elements 516, 518, and 520 about axis 514 is prevented. When a mechanical joint with a key is used to connect pipe elements having circumferential grooves that engage with the key, it is considered advantageous to prevent relative rotation between the pipe elements constituting the section. Grooved pipe elements connected by a mechanical joint rely heavily on friction between the joint and the pipe elements to prevent relative rotation, and such mechanical joints may not, in all circumstances, generate enough friction to prevent relative rotation of one pipe element relative to another. Thus, when torque is applied to one pipe element to rotate section 512, it is impossible to guarantee that all pipe elements will rotate, or rotate by the same amount as the pipe element to which torque is applied, unless a torsion-resistant joint is used to connect all pipe elements 516, 518, and 520 constituting section 512.

[0129] Figures 39 to 42A show an exemplary method for rotating section 512 of pipeline 510, and the exemplary method is Section 512 is supported by multiple points 534, 536, and 538 (Figures 39 and 40). A first torque is applied to section 512 about at least one point 540 longitudinal axis 514 (Figures 39 and 41) between the first end 522 and the second end 526 of section 512, thereby rotating section 512 over a first angular displacement 542 about the longitudinal axis 514 which is coaxial with the bore 544 of section 512. Includes.

[0130] In practice, the method can be carried out while the first end 522 and / or second end 526 of section 512 are connected to the adjacent conduit 510 via a rotary joint.

[0131] In reality, the number and location of support points in section 512 will naturally depend on the length of the section, along with other factors such as the pipe diameter and topography, and may require more than those shown in the figure. Nevertheless, support points may be located between end 522 and end 526 (e.g., point 536), close to the first and second ends of the section (point 534 and 538 ), may be located either between end 522 and end 526, or outside the end of the conduit 510 itself, as shown in Figure 39. If necessary, support points close to the first and second ends of the section may be located between the ends on the conduit 510, within 30 feet of the ends on the conduit 510.

[0132] As shown in Figure 40, the supporting step may include, for example, lifting the section 512 from a plurality of support bases 546. Lifting is an optional operation in the supporting step and may or may not be necessary depending on the size of the pipe elements constituting the section, the terrain on which the section is placed, and how the section is supported in site. A dedicated tracked vehicle known as a “side boom” 548 is commonly used to support, (if necessary) lift, and torque the section 512, but it is feasible to use a crane or other lifting device known in the art. As shown in Figures 39 and 40, lifting and supporting the section 512 includes using a plurality of side booms 548 to pull a plurality of lifting slings 550. Each lifting sling 550 is positioned at each of the plurality of lifting / support points 534, 536, 538. To lift and support the section 512, each lifting sling 550 has a line of action 552 (see Figure 40) that is aligned with or substantially aligned (e.g., aligned within 10 degrees) with the longitudinal axis 514. To minimize friction between the section 512 and the lifting sling 550, the lifting sling may have rollers 554 aligned to support the section 512 while allowing rotation about the longitudinal axis 514.

[0133] As shown in Figures 39 and 41, torque is applied to section 512 at point 540 using a side boom 548 that pulls a clamping sling 556 surrounding section 512. The clamping sling 556 is designed to contract around a pipe element (in this example, pipe element 518) to grip it. The clamping sling 556 also has a line of action 558 that is offset from the longitudinal axis 514 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. Thus, when tension is applied to the clamping sling 556, the clamping sling grips the pipe element 518 and, by the offset line of action 558, applies torque about the longitudinal axis 514, causing the pipe element 518 and those attached to it (pipe elements 516 and 520) to rotate over an angular displacement 542. Rotation of section 512 relative to conduit 510 is made possible by using swivel joints 524 and 528 at both ends of the section, and rotation of all pipe elements constituting section 512 is ensured by using torsion-resistant joints 530 and 532 connecting pipe element 518 to pipe elements 516 and 520. Rollers 554 on the support sling 550 (see Figure 40) allow section 512 to rotate with minimal friction while supported by the side boom 548 at support points 534, 536, and 538 (see Figure 39).

[0134] One purpose of rotating section 512 is to extend the service life of the section by ensuring that all inner surfaces of the pipe elements constituting the section undergo roughly the same degree of wear. For example, pipe elements carrying abrasive slurry wear unevenly, with the majority of the wear occurring across the bottom sector of the inner surface where the abrasive particles of the slurry concentrate and come into contact with the inner surface of the pipe element, causing the greatest wear across the bottom sector. Rotating (or "clocking") the section moves a new, unworn sector inside the pipe element to the bottom position where it will undergo wear and abrasion. Various factors, such as the properties of the slurry and the pipe diameter, determine the degree of angular displacement required to move the worn sector from the bottom position and replace it with an unworn sector. However, it may not be possible for the clamping sling 556 to rotate section 512 over the entire required angular displacement in a single pull. Therefore, an exemplary method according to the present invention provides applying a second torque at at least one point 540 between the first end 522 and the second end 526 of section 512, thereby rotating the section over a second angular displacement 560 about the longitudinal axis 514. This step may be repeated until the desired angular displacement is achieved. The first angular displacement, the second angular displacement, and subsequent angular displacements may be equal to or different from each other as necessary to achieve the desired displacement.

[0135] As shown in Figure 39, in long and heavy sections 512, it may be necessary to use multiple side booms 548 that apply torque at multiple points (540, 562) between the first and second ends of the section 512 to bring about rotation of the section over various angular displacements 542, 560 about the longitudinal axis 514. Multiple applications of torque may be required to achieve the desired angular displacement, and therefore this step may be repeated in the method.

[0136] As shown in Figure 42, the method according to the present invention also intends to connect a sling 557 to section 512 at at least one point 540 instead of the offset clamping sling 556. Alternatively, section 512 may be connected to sling 557 at at least one point 540, and the offset clamping sling 556 may be connected to section 512 at other points. As shown in Figure 42, sling 557 may be connected to torsion joints 530, 532 (torsion joint 530 is illustrated). Sling 557 may be connected to torsion joint 530 via a shackle 559 connected to the rotating opening 594b of torsion joint 530, and torsion joint 530 may comprise the components and embodiments described herein for joint 10. Sling 557 connected to the rotating opening 594b has a line of action 561 offset from the longitudinal axis 514 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis. When tension is applied to the sling 557, the offset line of action 561 causes the sling 557 to move along its longitudinal axis. 514 A torque is applied around the center, causing the torsion joint 530, and thus the connected pipe elements 516, 518, and 520, to rotate.

[0137] As shown in Figure 42A, the method according to the present invention intends to fit a wrench 564 into section 512 at at least one point 540 instead of an offset tightening sling. The wrench 564 has a jaw 566 that receives section 512 and an arm 568 that extends from the jaw 566 in a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis 514 of section 512. Thus, applying force to the arm 568 at a distal point in section 512 applies torque to the section around the axis 514 (for example, spaced outward from the outer circumference of the conduit of section 512). If necessary, the force may be applied to the arm 568 at a position spaced outward from the outer circumference of the conduit. To ensure a secure mechanical engagement between the jaws 566 of the wrench 564 and the section 512, and to ensure rotation of the section when force is applied to the arm 568 by the side boom 548, it may be advantageous to provide a flat surface 569 in the section 512, for example, a flat surface that can be associated with torsion joints 530, 532. Alternatively, a notch may be provided in the section 512, for example, a notch associated with torsion joints 530, 532, and a pin may be provided in the jaws 566 of the wrench 564 extending parallel to the axis 514, so that the wrench 564 It may be advantageous to ensure rotation of the section when force is applied to the arm 568 by the side boom 548 by enabling a secure mechanical engagement between the jaw 566 of the wrench 564 and the section 512 through the engagement between the pin and the notch on the section 512.

[0138] Rotating a section of pipeline using an exemplary method according to the present invention is expected to provide an efficient and safe method for extending the life of the pipeline, without requiring the pipeline to be stopped and the section to be disconnected in order to bring about the rotation.

[0139] All embodiments of the claimed inventions described herein are expressly provided merely as examples. Countless variations and modifications can be made to the exemplary embodiments described herein without departing from the concepts of this disclosure. Furthermore, the scope of this disclosure is intended to encompass all possible modifications and combinations of all elements, mechanisms, and aspects described herein and in the claims and shown in the drawings. All such modifications and combinations are intended to fall within the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A joint for joining a first pipe element and a second pipe element at their ends, wherein the joint comprises: A first segment comprising a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends of the first segment, A second segment comprising a first mounting member and a second mounting member positioned at both ends of the second segment, wherein the first segment and the second segment are end-to-end mountable so as to surround a central space and a longitudinal axis, A plurality of adjustable fasteners, each of the plurality of adjustable fasteners having a diameter and extending along a first axis, each adjustable fastener being able to tighten the first segment and the second segment toward each other to a fully fitted configuration joining the first tube element and the second tube element, and for attaching the first segment and the second segment toward each other, at least one of the plurality of adjustable fasteners being able to extend through separate first mounting members of the first segment and the second segment, and at least one of the plurality of adjustable fasteners being able to extend through separate second mounting members of the first segment and the second segment, and Equipped with, In the fully mounted configuration, The circumference of the circle is defined by the centroid of the first segment and the centroid of the second segment, the centroids of the first and second segments being the area centroids of the cross-sectional areas of the individual segments taken along the cutting plane, the cutting plane extending along the longitudinal axis, through the longitudinal axis, through the first segment between the first and second mounting members of the first segment, and through the second segment between the first and second mounting members of the second segment, at a location that provides the minimum area of ​​the cross-sectional areas of the first and second segments. A joint in which at least a portion of each first shaft is spaced apart from a point on the circumference of the circle by a distance that is less than or equal to the diameter of each of the plurality of adjustable fasteners.

2. The joint according to claim 1, wherein in the fully mounted configuration, the first mounting member on the first segment engages with the first mounting member on the second segment, and the second mounting member on the first segment engages with the second mounting member on the second segment.

3. The joint according to claim 1, wherein each first shaft has a portion that is spaced from the longitudinal shaft by a distance less than or equal to the sum of the radius of the circle and the diameter of each of the plurality of adjustable fasteners.

4. The joint according to claim 1, wherein each individual mounting member of the first segment and the second segment and the second mounting member of the first segment and the second segment are provided with at least one protrusion.

5. The joint according to claim 4, wherein each of the at least one projections of the individual first mounting member is provided with a hole configured to receive at least one adjustable fastener from the plurality of adjustable fasteners, which is extendable through the individual first mounting member, and each of the at least one projections of the individual second mounting member is provided with a hole configured to receive at least one adjustable fastener from the plurality of adjustable fasteners, which is extendable through the individual second mounting member.

6. The coupling according to claim 5, wherein in the fully mounted configuration, a portion of each first shaft is spaced from the circumference of the circle by a distance less than or equal to the diameter of the individual hole.

7. The coupling according to claim 5, wherein in the fully mounted configuration, each first shaft is spaced from the longitudinal shaft by a distance less than or equal to the sum of the radius of the circle and the diameter of the individual hole.

8. The joint according to claim 4, wherein each of the at least one protrusions comprises an inner edge and an outer edge installed opposite to it, the distance between the inner edge and the central space is less than the distance between the outer edge and the central space, and in the fully fitted configuration, each first axis is a first distance from the inner edge of the individual protrusion and a second distance from the outer edge of the individual protrusion, the ratio of the first distance to the second distance is 0.333 to 0.

5.

9. The joint according to claim 1, wherein in the fully mounted configuration, the cut surface is at an angle of 5 to 80 degrees from the first plane, and the first plane extends through the longitudinal axis, includes the longitudinal axis, and is parallel to each of the first axes.

10. A first ring attachable to the end of the first pipe element, the first ring comprising a first groove extending circumferentially around it and defining a plurality of receiving surfaces adjacent to the first groove, A second ring attachable to the end of the second tubular element, wherein the second ring defines a second groove extending circumferentially around it and a plurality of receiving surfaces adjacent to the second groove. Furthermore, The first segment comprises a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the first segment and projecting toward the central space, wherein the first key and the second key are spaced apart, and further comprises at least one working surface engaged with a receiving surface among the plurality of receiving surfaces of the first ring and at least one working surface engaged with a receiving surface among the plurality of receiving surfaces of the second ring, the engagement between the working surface and the receiving surface prevents the first and second tubular elements from rotating relative to each other about the longitudinal axis. The second segment further comprises a first key and a second key extending longitudinally along the second segment and projecting toward the central space, wherein the first key and the second key on the second segment are spaced apart. The fitting according to claim 1, wherein in the fully fitted configuration, the first ring and the second ring are positioned within the central space, and the first key and the second key of the first segment and the second segment are engageable with the first groove and the second groove, respectively.

11. The cut surface is Between the first mounting member of the first segment and the at least one working surface of the first ring that can engage with the receiving surface among the plurality of receiving surfaces, Between the second mounting member of the first segment and the at least one working surface of the first ring that can engage with the receiving surface among the plurality of receiving surfaces The joint according to claim 10, which extends through the first segment in any of the following ways.

Images