System for connecting rigid pipes and for connecting flexible pipes, and fittings for such a system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system for connecting a rigid pipe (4) and for connecting a flexible pipe (6), the pipes (4, 6) having corresponding outer diameters, the system comprising press jaws (10, 110) having a press contour (8, 108), at least one first fitting (20, 120) for press-fitting onto the rigid pipe (4), the at least one first fitting (20, 120) having a first press sleeve (21, 121) with a first outer contour (22, 122), at least one second fitting (40, 140) for press-fitting onto the flexible pipe (6), the at least one second fitting (40, 140) having a second outer contour (22, 122). The present invention relates to a system comprising at least one second fitting (40, 140) having a second press sleeve (41, 141) with a side contour (42, 142), the outer contour (22, 122) of the first press sleeve (21, 121) and the outer contour (42, 142) of the second press sleeve (41, 141), respectively, being at least partially adapted to the press contour (8, 108) of the press jaws (10, 110) and being capable of being pressed by the press jaws (10, 110), the outer contours (22, 122, 42, 142) of the first press sleeve (21, 121) and the second press sleeve (41, 141) at least partially corresponding. This system solves the technical problem of simplifying the on-site labor for installing a piping system. In particular, the problem is to specify a suitable combination of fittings for rigid and flexible pipes.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a system for connecting rigid pipes and for connecting flexible pipes, the pipes having corresponding outer diameters. The present invention also relates to a plurality of fittings suitable for use in such a system, and to a system of fittings.

Background Art

[0002] The technical field related to the present invention is the on-site installation of pipe systems, in which pipe sections and fittings are generally installed to conduct and guide fluids, i.e., liquids or gases. Fittings are generally understood to be connectors for pipelines, and fittings are most commonly used to connect two or more pipe sections. Thus, a fitting preferably has two or more compression sections, for example in the form of a compression sleeve. The most common fittings include straight connections, direction changes in the form of pipe bends, reducers, branches such as T-pieces or crosses. However, a fitting is also understood to be a pipe connection of a fitting or other component. For example, a thermometer or pressure gauge as a fitting has only one connection for a pipe section. Thus, this fitting part of the fitting has only one press section for connecting the pipe section to the fitting.

[0003] For the connection of a pipe section to a fitting and other components, a press connection is used in which the press section of the fitting is formed radially inwards by a press force when the pipe section is inserted, thus creating a permanent and firm, and in some cases even non-removable connection. The fitting can be provided with a sealing agent, such as an O-ring, which ensures the tightness of the connection, or it can also be formed by direct contact between the material of the pipe section and the fitting, for example a metal seal.

[0004] Press techniques for the radial formation of the press section mainly use a radially operating press system and a radial-axial press system in which part of the fitting is displaced axially during the press process to effect radial formation.

[0005] The above piping system is used in particular for transporting drinking water or heating water, gas for operating a heating system or industrial gas. In principle, any fluid medium can be transported in the pipeline.

[0006] In the context of this application, a rigid pipe is understood to be a pipe that is connected to an external sealing fitting. The strength of the pipe material is sufficient such that the forces acting from the outside through the fitting enable a permanent seal, but deform the rigid pipe only slightly or not at all so that the connection remains stable and firm.

[0007] Furthermore, applications with PE pipes or thin-walled copper pipes, etc., are also known where the outside is sealed and an inner support sleeve is further used. This is because the material strength is not completely sufficient for an external seal without the risk of pipe deformation. The inserted support sleeve has only a supporting function and no sealing function. Such pipes can also be connected to an external sealing fitting and are thus understood as rigid pipes in the context of this application.

[0008] In the context of this application, a flexible pipe is understood to be a pipe that is connected to a support inserted into the pipe by an internal sealing fitting. Due to the low strength of the pipe material, it is necessary to enable a permanent seal without being deformed too much by the forces acting from the outside and inside through the fitting. In this case, the flexible pipe receives forces from the inside and outside so that the connection remains stable and firm.

[0009] On the one hand, solid materials, especially metal materials, are used as the material for the rigid pipe. Solid plastics can also be regarded as solid materials. The rigid pipe is preferably used in facilities with larger straight sections along walls or ceilings, or within wall or ceiling structures.

[0010] On the other hand, the flexible pipe is used in facilities consisting of one or more plastic layers and one or more thin metal layers, especially plastic pipes, so-called all-plastic pipes, or pipes made of composite materials, so-called multi-layer composite material pipes. The flexible pipe is particularly used in facilities of front wall technologies such as retrofit sanitary facilities where the flexible pipe is often bent on-site to fit the shape and installed in a curved state in a narrow space.

[0011] Furthermore, both rigid pipes and flexible pipes are available in various outer diameters. For metal pipes, outer diameters in the range of 6 mm to over 108 mm up to a maximum of 6 inches are used. In the case of plastic pipes, the outer diameter is usually in the range of 6 mm to 63 mm, but much larger outer diameters are also used here.

[0012] When laying a piping system using both rigid pipes and flexible pipes, pipe dimensions with matching inner and outer diameters are selected. Since in that case only exact values happen to match in pairs by chance, dimensions with the best possible match are selected. Therefore, usually, for each system or dimension, there are specific fitting shapes and press joint shapes in combination with specific fittings for rigid pipes and flexible pipes.

[0013] Therefore, various press jaws must be prepared at the construction site for various pipelines and fittings. This means that the labor at the construction site becomes particularly large because several press jaws and, in some cases, different press tools must also be stocked. Thereby, the product types and the related production, storage, and logistics become very complicated. For customers, especially craftsmen, such complexity of pipes, fittings, and press jaws is further increased because a large number of systems from various manufacturers are available on the market. The following solutions are known from the prior art. US Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 378530 (A1) describes a fitting for connecting a flexible internal sealing pipe to a support with a sealing function. US Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 024827 (A1) discloses a fitting for connecting a rigid external sealing pipe, comprising a chamber, a sealing element, a clamping element with a protruding end, and a separating element between the sealing element and the clamping element. German Patent No. 10 2015 109 268 (A1) describes a fitting comprising a press sleeve with a chamber open at the distal end in which a sealing element, a cutting element and a retaining element are provided, the retaining element partially protruding axially from the chamber. The cutting element is retained on the annular retaining element by sliding, inserting, clamping or material connecting the cutting element onto the retaining element. British Patent No. 687 497 (A) discloses a fitting for connecting to a flexible pipe in the form of a hose coupling having a substrate including a support connected to a sleeve. A multilayer hose is connected to the fitting, and before the hose is inserted into the fitting, a portion of the outer layer at the end is removed, a ring is placed thereon, and the fabric of the non-removed reinforcing layer is placed around the ring. Thus, before and after pressing the fitting, the material of the reinforcing layer comes to be interposed between the open ends of the pressing sleeve.

[0014] Therefore, the present invention is based on the technical problem of simplifying the on-site labor for installing a piping system. In particular, the technical problem is to specify the appropriate combination of fittings for rigid and flexible pipes, as well as the appropriate press tools. Another technical problem is to specify the fittings for use in the aforementioned system, especially to improve in terms of manufacturing effort.

Summary of the Invention

Means for Solving the Problems

[0015] According to the present invention, the aforementioned technical problem is solved by a system for connecting rigid pipes and for connecting flexible pipes, the pipes having corresponding outer diameters, the system comprising a press jaw having a press profile, at least one first fitting for press-fitting onto a rigid pipe, the at least one first fitting being formed as an external sealing fitting for sealing the rigid pipe to be connected from the outside, the at least one first fitting including a first press sleeve having a first outer profile, at least one second fitting for press-fitting onto a flexible pipe, the at least one second fitting being formed as an internal sealing fitting for sealing the flexible pipe to be connected from the inside, the at least one second fitting including a second press sleeve having a second outer profile, the outer profile of the first press sleeve and the outer profile of the second press sleeve each being at least partially adapted to the press profile of the press jaw and being pressable by the press jaw.

[0016] According to the present invention, it has been recognized that labor at a construction site is reduced if the fittings for rigid pipes and the fittings for flexible pipes have outer profiles that match to the extent that they can be pressed using the same pressing tool and the same press jaw with a corresponding press profile connected thereto, and preferably even have the same press sleeve. Therefore, a pipe system with rigid pipes and a pipe system with flexible pipes can be installed using the same pressing tool and the same press jaw. Accordingly, fewer tools and press jaws have to be prepared on site, and the time required for setting up the tools is shortened. With fewer press jaw exchanges or reduced tool complexity on site, the tools become easier to manage.

[0017] The press jaw is understood to be part of the entire press tool system. In its most common use, the press jaw has two press jaw halves that are attached to the press tool and have an inlet contour operatively connected to a piston, and are rotated from an open position to a closed position by a motor-driven linear piston. This rotational movement causes the pressing of a fitting provided within the press jaw.

[0018] The press jaw can also consist of two press jaw halves that are connected to each other via a joint and have coupling means at the open ends. A joining clamp engages within the two coupling means of the press jaw, and the press jaw is further part of the press tool and operatively connected to the piston via the inlet contour. The linear advancement of the piston of the press tool compresses the joining clamp at the front end, and through the engagement with the coupling means, the press jaw is also compressed. In addition to the two-part press jaw, a multi-part press jaw is also known as a press ring.

[0019] The materials used for rigid pipes are, in particular, metals such as ferritic steel like 1.4521, austenitic steel like 1.4404, duplex steel like 1.4462, gunmetal, SiBr, copper, etc., but also solid plastics such as cross-linked polyethylene (PE-X), high heat-resistant polyethylene (PE-RT), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polypropylene (PP) with corresponding wall thicknesses. Furthermore, multilayer composite material pipes can be designed to be rigid using, for example, a thicker aluminum layer, and fiber-reinforced pipes can also be used. Flexible pipes can be made of the same plastic or a composite of a plastic layer and a metal layer, but with a smaller wall thickness so that flexibility is ensured by the shape design.

[0020] A rigid pipe and a flexible pipe differ in that, regardless of the pipe material and dimensions, the rigid pipe can be connected by an external sealing fitting, while the flexible pipe can only be connected by an internal sealing fitting. Due to the dimensional stability of the rigid pipe, because of its rigidity, it absorbs the forces generated between the radial presses and is large enough to guarantee the sealing and holding function or the fixing function together with the pressed fitting. On the other hand, the flexible pipe is supported from the inside by a support sleeve and is molded onto the support sleeve when the fitting is pressed. Therefore, the fitting for the rigid pipe is an external sealing fitting, and the fitting for the flexible pipe is an internal sealing fitting.

[0021] Since rigid pipes are often made of stronger materials, rigid pipes usually have a thinner wall thickness than flexible pipes, which are made of weaker materials. Therefore, the fittings of the described system are preferably used in pairs of rigid and flexible pipes with the same outer diameter as equal as possible, although the exact outer dimensions may differ from each other. The inner dimensions can differ much more than the outer dimensions. For example, from existing metal and plastic pipe systems, there are rigid pipes with an outer diameter of 16 mm and flexible pipes with an outer diameter of 15 mm.

[0022] This means that the outer diameters of the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe are the same or similar. Therefore, when the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe are installed in a common pipe system, the flow losses due to the internal cross-sections, which also differ only slightly, are only small. Thus, the approach is to always combine pairs of adjacent outer diameters in the system, for example, pairs of pipe outer diameters 16 mm / 15 mm or 54 mm / 50 mm, with a press jaw with a press contour.

[0023] As already explained at the beginning, a fitting is provided on one side of the connector or fitting. Depending on the function of the connector or fitting, there is usually one fitting for the fitting, or a maximum of four fittings for the cross piece.

[0024] The described fittings and their parts are preferably made of metal in order to ensure formability and sufficient hardness and dimensional stability after forming. The possible metals are those already mentioned for the rigid pipes, for example stainless steels such as ferritic steel like 1.4521, austenitic steel like 1.4404, duplex steel like 1.4462, gunmetal, SiBr, copper.

[0025] However, if the non-metallic material enables sufficient properties for the permanent connection to the press and the pipe, the described fittings and their parts can also be made of non-metallic material or plastic. For example, the following materials can be used. Cross-linked polyethylene (PE-X), silane-cross-linked polyethylene (PE-Xb) or physically cross-linked polyethylene (PE-Xc) with corresponding wall thickness, high heat-resistant polyethylene (PE-RT), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), polyetheretherketone (PEEK) or polyaryl ether ketone (PAEK), aliphatic bio-based polyamide (PA410, PA12, PA12-GF30) or polypropylene random copolymer (PP-RCT) with modified crystal structure and improved heat resistance.

[0026] In the system according to the present invention, the outer contours of the first press sleeve and the second press sleeve are preferably at least partially adapted to the press contour of the press jaw. In this case, the property of being "adapted" means that the outer contour of each press sleeve preferably at least partially touches the press contour on its surface. The press force, which is preferably directed radially inward, is transmitted to the press sleeve at the portion of the contact surface during the press by the press jaw. As a result, the press sleeve is shaped so that a holding effect and a sealing effect on the connected pipe are permanently established.

[0027] The press sleeve can basically have different shapes as long as it has a portion of the outer contour that is effective when the fitting is pressed with the press jaw. In a preferred manner, the press sleeve forms a chamber directed inwardly towards the pipe to be received, and at least one clamping element, sealing element and / or force transmission element is received in the chamber. By forming the chamber, the aforementioned elements can be pre-installed to create a tight connection that prevents pulling out between the rigid or flexible pipe and the fitting. The chamber can be surrounded on three sides by the press sleeve, but can also be at least partially open towards the distal end of the press sleeve.

[0028] The chambers of the first press sleeve and the chambers of the second press sleeve advantageously accommodate different clamping elements, sealing elements and / or force transmission elements. Thus, with the same press shape of the press jaws as well as of the first and second press sleeves, differently adapted elements to be pressed can be used for the sealing as well as the holding and fixing of rigid or flexible pipes within the first and second fittings. Due to the flexibility of the design of the fittings and the elements comprised therein, the same press contour can be applied while the fittings can be equally well adapted to both rigid and flexible pipes. Thus, within the described system, an optimal connection technique is achieved for both rigid and flexible pipes alike.

[0029] As described, when the outer contour of the first press sleeve and the outer contour of the second press sleeve at least partially coincide, the same part of the press sleeve is equally pressed with both types of pipes. Thus, the parts that coincide are shaped in the same way when the press jaws are closed. In a further preferred manner, the press sleeve for the rigid pipe and the press sleeve for the flexible pipe have a coinciding outer contour and are thus shaped by the same press jaws, possibly with different pressing forces.

[0030] Furthermore, it can be provided that the first press sleeve has a first additional press section, the second press sleeve has a second additional press section, the first additional press section and the second additional press section have different outer contours and can each be partially shaped by the press jaws. Thus, different functionalities can be molded for the fitting for the rigid pipe and the fitting for the flexible pipe. Nevertheless, both fittings are pressed with the same press jaws having the same press contour.

[0031] The basic structure of the fitting is that a base body is provided and a press sleeve is integrally formed with the base body or connected to the base body by material fitting or force fitting. In the case of a fitting for a flexible pipe, a support sleeve is also provided for supporting and sealing the inserted pipe from the inside and absorbing the pressing force.

[0032] Hereinafter, embodiments of fittings for rigid pipes and fittings for flexible pipes will be described. On the one hand, these embodiments correspond to preferred embodiments of the described system. On the other hand, these embodiments also correspond to independent solutions to the above-described technical problems, either individually or in combination.

[0033] Hereinafter, the dimensions and dimensional ratios of the fittings are calculated and compared. The calculations characterize the fittings of the described system in a preferred manner.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment of the system, the ratio of the volume V(starr) of the chamber of the press sleeve of the first fitting to the volume V(flex) of the chamber of the press sleeve of the second fitting is

[0035]

Number

[0036] obtained by, where the volume V(starr) is

[0037]

Number

[0038] obtained by LK(starr) is the length of the chamber, DK(starr) is the inner diameter of the chamber, DR(starr) is the outer diameter of the rigid pipe to be accommodated, where the volume V(flex) is

[0039]

Number

[0040] obtained by LK(flex) is the length of the chamber, DK(flex) is the inner diameter of the chamber, DR(flex) is the outer diameter of the flexible pipe to be accommodated, The ratio thereunder is

[0041]

Number

[0042] obtained by, where δ takes a value from the range [0.50; 3.00], preferably [0.50; 1.50], particularly preferably [0.75; 1.25].

[0043] The length of the chamber, also called the chamber length, is preferably determined by the length of the section forming the chamber of the same diameter, i.e., by the length of the cylindrical section forming the chamber. The rounded areas on one or both sides of the cylindrical section are not considered when determining the chamber length.

[0044] Therefore, the ratio δ of the described embodiment indicates the ratio of the volume of the chamber of the press sleeve of the fitting for pressing the rigid pipe around the inserted pipe to the volume of the chamber of the press sleeve of the fitting for pressing the flexible pipe around the inserted pipe. A similar chamber volume, and thus a ratio δ as close as possible to the value of 1, facilitates the pressing of the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe with the same press profile.

[0045] On the other hand, when the chamber volumes are significantly different, the pressing of the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe with one press profile cannot be fully guaranteed.

[0046] For example, when the ratio δ of the chamber volume of the press sleeve of the fitting for the flexible pipe is at least twice as large as the chamber volume of the press sleeve of the fitting for the rigid pipe, i.e., δ < 0.5, on the one hand, the chamber length of the press sleeve of the fitting for the rigid pipe can be selected to be too short to accommodate the elements provided in the chamber. On the other hand, at such a ratio, the height of the chamber of the press sleeve of the fitting for the rigid pipe is too low, so the degree of compression can be too low. At a ratio δ < 0.5, the chamber of the press sleeve of the fitting for the flexible pipe requires an excessively large height, so the degree of compression may be too high.

[0047] On the other hand, when the ratio δ of the chamber volume of the press sleeve of the fitting for the rigid pipe is at least 1.5 times, especially at least 3.0 times larger than the chamber volume of the press sleeve of the fitting for the flexible pipe, i.e., δ > 1.5, especially δ > 3.0, on the one hand, the chamber length of the press sleeve of the fitting for the flexible pipe can be selected to be too short to accommodate the elements provided in the chamber, such as the force transmission ring. On the other hand, at such a ratio, the height of the chamber of the press sleeve of the fitting for the flexible pipe is too low, so the degree of compression can be too low. At a ratio δ > 1.5, especially δ > 3.0, the height of the chamber of the press sleeve of the fitting for the rigid pipe becomes excessively high, so the degree of compression may also be too high.

[0048] On the other hand, as shown in the preferred embodiment of the system, when chamber volumes that are as similar as possible are selected, the ratio is δ = 1. Thus, both the chamber height and the chamber length of the press sleeves of the fittings for the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe can be selected so that an equal pressing degree is achieved with one pressing profile for pressing the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe. In this way, sealing pressing of the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe with one pressing profile can be ensured.

[0049] Alternatively, a system with intentionally different chamber volumes can also be selected, in which case the ratio of the chamber volumes within the limits described is not equal to 1, i.e., δ ≠ 1. Thus, both the chamber height and the chamber length of the press sleeves of the fittings for the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe can be selected so that an optimal arrangement of the various functional elements within the chamber of the first fitting for the rigid pipe and the second fitting for the flexible pipe can be achieved with different chamber volumes. In this way, while optimally adapting the functional elements simultaneously, the sealing press for the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe can be ensured by the press profile.

[0050] In another preferred embodiment of the system, the ratio of the difference between the inner diameter DK(starr) of the chamber of the press sleeve of the first fitting and the outer diameter DR(starr) of the rigid pipe to be accommodated, to twice the length LK(starr) of the chamber, is

[0051]

Number

[0052] obtained by, where ε(starr) takes a value from the range [0.10; 0.50], preferably [0.2; 0.4], particularly preferably [0.25; 0.35].

[0053] Thus, the parameter ε(starr) of the described embodiment indicates the ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length of the press sleeve of the fitting for pressing the rigid pipe. A ratio where the value ε(starr) is as close as possible to 0.3 or deviates from this value as little as possible, i.e., a ratio where the chamber height corresponds to approximately one-third of the chamber length, has been shown to achieve a sufficient degree of compression for the safe compression of the rigid pipe by the press sleeve of the fitting for compressing the rigid pipe.

[0054] Values of ε(starr) that deviate significantly from the target value ε(starr) = 0.3 have been shown to result in various disadvantages from a selected chamber length that is significantly shorter or significantly longer compared to the chamber height.

[0055] For example, a value of ε(starr) < 0.1 where the chamber length exceeds 10 times the chamber height can, on the one hand, mean that the chamber length is too long for the installation space to be achieved. On the other hand, for such an ε(starr) with a sensibly selected chamber length, the chamber height may be too small to provide sufficient space for elements to be accommodated within the chamber. At ε(starr) < 0.1, there is also a possibility of achieving too high a degree of compression.

[0056] For example, at a value of ε(starr) > 0.5 where the chamber length is less than 2 times the chamber height, if the chamber height is sensibly selected, the chamber length may be too short to provide sufficient space for elements to be accommodated within the chamber. At ε(starr) > 0.5, there is also a possibility of achieving too high a degree of compression.

[0057] On the other hand, as shown in a preferred embodiment of the system, if ε(starr) is selected to be as close as possible to the target value ε(starr) = 0.3, such a selected ratio of chamber length to chamber height can ensure both sufficient space to accommodate elements within the chamber and an optimally selected degree of compression for the safe compression of the rigid pipe.

[0058] In a further preferred embodiment of the system, the ratio of the difference between the inner diameter DK(flex) of the chamber of the press sleeve of the second fitting and the outer diameter DR(flex) of the flexible pipe to be accommodated, to twice the length LK(flex) of the chamber is

[0059]

Number

[0060] obtained thereby, where ε(flex) takes values from the range [0.10; 0.70], particularly [0.10; 0.50], preferably [0.20; 0.60], particularly [0.2; 0.4], more preferably [0.25; 0.50], particularly [0.25; 0.35].

[0061] Therefore, the parameter ε(flex) of the described embodiments represents the ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length of the press sleeve of the fitting for pressing the flexible pipe. The advantages and disadvantages resulting from the selection of the value of the parameter ε(flex) correspond to the aforementioned advantages and disadvantages of the parameter ε(starr). Thus, also for the chamber shape of the press sleeve of the fitting for pressing the flexible pipe with sufficient compressibility and sufficient space to accommodate the elements in the chamber, the target value ε(flex) = 0.3 is aimed for.

[0062] In another preferred embodiment of the system, ε(starr) is

[0063]

Number

[0064] obtained thereby, DK(starr) is the inner diameter of the chamber of the press sleeve of the first fitting, DR(starr) is the outer diameter of the rigid pipe to be accommodated, LK(starr) is the length of the chamber, ε(flex) is

[0065]

Number

[0066] obtained thereby, DK(flex) is the inner diameter of the chamber of the press sleeve of the second fitting, DR(flex) is the outer diameter of the flexible pipe to be accommodated, When LK(flex) is the length of the chamber, the ratio α is

[0067] [Number]

[0068] obtained by, and α takes a value from the range of values [0.50; 3.00], preferably [0.50; 1.50], particularly preferably [0.75; 1.25].

[0069] Thus, the ratio α of the described embodiments represents the ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length of the press sleeve of the fitting for pressing the rigid pipe, and the ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length of the press sleeve of the fitting for pressing the flexible pipe. A similar ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length of the press sleeve, and thus a ratio δ as close as possible to the value of 1, improves the pressing of the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe with the same pressing profile.

[0070] Ratio

[0071] [Number]

[0072] The result of the selection of the value of corresponds to the above-mentioned advantages and disadvantages regarding the value of the ratio δ of the volume of the chamber of the press sleeve of the fitting for pressing the rigid pipe to the volume of the chamber of the press sleeve of the fitting for pressing the flexible pipe. A value of α < 0.5 corresponds to the ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length of the press sleeve of the fitting for connecting the flexible pipe being at least twice as large as the corresponding ratio of the fitting for connecting the rigid pipe. A value of α > 1.5 corresponds to the ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length of the press sleeve of the fitting for connecting the rigid pipe being at least 1.5 times as large as the corresponding ratio of the fitting for connecting the flexible pipe.

[0073] In another preferred embodiment of the system, the degree of compression β(starr) when press-fitting the first fitting onto the rigid pipe is

[0074]

Equation

[0075] obtained by where DK(starr) is the inner diameter of the chamber of the press sleeve of the first fitting before pressing, s(starr) is the wall thickness of the press sleeve in the region of the first fitting to be pressed before pressing, DR(starr) is the outer diameter of the rigid pipe to be received before pressing, DPK(starr) is the inner diameter of the press contour of the press jaw in the region of the first fitting DR(starr) to be pressed, β(starr) takes a value of β(starr) < 0.15, preferably β(starr) < 0.12, particularly preferably β(starr) < 0.10.

[0076] In this way, a tight connection with high pull-out strength during pressing can be achieved, and wrinkles in the pipes and fittings to be connected can be minimized. The degree of pressing indicates the change in the chamber diameter of the press sleeve during pressing taking into account the wall thickness of the press sleeve, and this change is related to the diameter of the pipe to be pressed. This change is achieved by compressing the press jaw during pressing, and the inner diameter of the press jaw after pressing is decisive for the diameter of the chamber of the press sleeve in the pressed state.

[0077] A compression degree of approximately 0 corresponding to a compression degree of approximately 0% means that the chamber is not pressed and thus has not undergone any change in diameter. However, for large pipe diameters, even when the press seals well, the compression degree indicated by β(starr) can easily take on values in the low percentage range, approximately 1% corresponding to β(starr) = 0.01. On the other hand, if a compression degree of 0.15 or more corresponding to a compression degree that is too high, for example, greater than 15%, is selected, as a result, excessive shaping and ultimately deformation of the fitting and / or pipe being pressed can occur.

[0078] In another preferred embodiment of the system, the compression degree β(flex) when pressing the second fitting onto the flexible pipe is

[0079]

Number

[0080] obtained by DK(flex) is the inner diameter of the chamber of the press sleeve of the second fitting before pressing, s(flex) is the wall thickness of the press sleeve in the region of the second fitting to be pressed before pressing, DR(flex) is the outer diameter of the flexible pipe to be received before pressing, DPK(flex) is the inner diameter of the press profile of the press jaw in the region of the second fitting to be pressed after pressing, β(flex) takes on a value of β(flex) < 0.15, preferably β(flex) < 0.12, and particularly preferably β(flex) < 0.10.

[0081] In this way, a tight connection with high pull-out strength can be achieved, and wrinkles between the pressings of the pipes and fittings to be connected can be minimized.

[0082] On the other hand, a compression degree β(flex) of about 0 corresponding to a compression degree of about 0% means that no sealing compression occurs between the fitting and the pipe to which it is connected, and the chamber diameter of the compression sleeve does not undergo any change. However, for large pipe diameters, even with good sealing compression, the compression degree indicated by β(flex) can easily reach values in the low percentage range, about 1% corresponding to β(flex) = 0.01. When the compression degree β(flex) takes a value that is too high, such as a compression degree of 0.15 or more corresponding to a compression degree of 15% or more, the fitting or pipe being pressed may be deformed too much, resulting in wrinkles and deformation of the fitting and / or pipe being pressed by excessive pressing force.

[0083] In a further preferred embodiment of the system, the compression degree β(starr) when press-fitting the first fitting onto the rigid pipe is

[0084]

Number

[0085] obtained by DK(starr) is the inner diameter of the chamber of the press sleeve of the first fitting before pressing, s(starr) is the wall thickness of the press sleeve of the area of the first fitting to be pressed before pressing, DR(starr) is the outer diameter of the rigid pipe to be received before pressing, DPK(starr) is the inner diameter of the press profile of the press joint of the area of the first fitting to be pressed after pressing, The compression degree β(flex) when the second fitting is press-fitted onto the flexible pipe is

[0086]

Number

[0087] obtained by DK(flex) is the inner diameter of the chamber of the press sleeve of the second fitting before pressing, s(flex) is the wall thickness of the press sleeve of the area of the second fitting to be pressed before pressing, DR(flex) is the outer diameter of the flexible pipe to be accommodated before pressing, DPK(flex) is the inner diameter of the press contour of the press jaw of the area of the second fitting to be pressed after pressing, Therefore, the ratio τ is,

[0088]

Number

[0089] obtained by, and τ takes values from the range [0.50; 1.50], preferably [0.75; 1.5], particularly preferably [0.80; 1.20].

[0090] Therefore, the ratio τ indicates the ratio of the degree of compression of the press connection of the fitting for a rigid pipe to the degree of compression of the press connection of the fitting for a flexible pipe, using the same press tool, i.e., the same press jaw, and provides information on whether the press connections are compressed to approximately the same extent.

[0091] Therefore, by an appropriate selection of the ratio τ, an optimal degree of pressing can be achieved both when pressing the fitting together with a rigid pipe and when pressing the fitting together with a flexible pipe, using the same press tool. For example, an optimal press of the fitting with a rigid pipe can enable an optimal press of the fitting with a flexible pipe using the same press tool, so that crushing or insufficient pressing of the fitting and the flexible pipe can be prevented during pressing using the same press tool without the need to change the press tool for the pressing process. At the same time, an optimal press of the fitting with a flexible pipe can prevent crushing or insufficient pressing of the fitting and the rigid pipe when pressing using the same press tool.

[0092] On the other hand, if a ratio τ that is too low or too high is selected, for example τ < 0.5 or τ > 1.5, the fitting for connection to the rigid pipe may be overpressed and crushed when pressed using the same pressing tool, or the pressing may be too small to prevent a firm connection from being made.

[0093] On the other hand, in the case of optimal compression of the fitting for connection to the flexible pipe, if the selected ratio τ is too low or too high, for example τ < 0.5 or τ > 1.5, the fitting for connection to the rigid pipe may have too little compression, causing leakage at the connection and too low withdrawal strength, or may be overcompressed, causing damage to elements within the chamber of the rigid pipe and / or the compression sleeve, such as sealing elements.

[0094] Alternatively, a system with intentionally different degrees of compression can be selected, in which case the ratio of the degrees of compression within the described limits is not equal to 1, i.e., τ <> 1. Thus, the degree of compression of the press sleeves of the fittings for the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe can be selected such that an optimal arrangement of the various functional elements within the chambers of the first fitting for the rigid pipe and the second fitting for the flexible pipe can be achieved by different fitting designs. In this way, while optimally adapting the functional elements simultaneously, a sealing press for the rigid pipe and the flexible pipe can be ensured by the press profile.

[0095] An embodiment of a fitting for connection to a rigid pipe for the aforementioned system for solving the above technical problem comprises a base body, a stop element formed circumferentially on the base body and protruding inward, a press sleeve connected to the base body and forming an outer contour, the press sleeve having a chamber directed inwardly towards the pipe to be received, and a clamping ring provided within the chamber, the clamping ring being made of a plastic material and having a plurality of clamping elements aligned against the withdrawal direction of the inserted pipe. The clamping element is provided opposite the stop element in the distal area of the chamber and abuts against the wall at the distal outer corner area of the press sleeve. It is provided with a clamping ring and a sealing element provided in the chamber adjacent to the stop element, and the press sleeve has a structure that seals the rigid pipe to be connected from the outside together with the clamping ring, the clamping element and the sealing element.

[0096] The press sleeve is preferably formed integrally as a one-piece with the base body. In the pressed state, the sealing element is provided in the area of the stop element, that is, the location where the inserted pipe stops and terminates, and is placed without a gap against the press sleeve and the inserted pipe. The absence of a gap avoids dead spaces and stagnant areas, thus improving the hygiene condition.

[0097] The pipe is fixed by a clamping ring that holds the clamping element against extraction and / or against excessive internal pressure. The clamping element absorbs the pulling force by deforming the pipe at a certain point and supporting the wall of the press sleeve. Thereby, a direct force flow from the pipe through the press sleeve to the fitting is ensured. After pressing, the clamping ring itself only has a supporting function and contributes little or not at all to the fixation against extraction.

[0098] The clamping ring of the fitting described here is designed as a plastic clamping ring with a metal cutting blade mounted as a clamping element. The plastic ring also has axially oriented slots that make the clamping ring flexible and thus facilitate the assembly of the fitting into the press sleeve.

[0099] The clamping element or the cutting blade can be designed as a wire element provided in a recess provided for this purpose. An alternative embodiment of the clamping ring is a two-piece clamping ring in which the cutting blade is placed in an injection mold and then overmolded.

[0100] The clamping element can be fixed in the plastic of the clamping ring by force fit, form fit or material fit, for example using an adhesion promoter. The clamping element can be manufactured in various ways, for example as a casting or a stamping part. The number of clamping elements can be determined according to requirements or dimensions, and it is preferably provided with at least three clamping elements. The same clamping element can also be used for fittings for various pipe diameters.

[0101] Furthermore, the clamping element integrated into the clamping ring is preferably provided opposite the stop element in the distal area of the chamber. When the press sleeve is pressed, the clamping element is clamped at an angle against the extraction direction of the pipe between the deformed press sleeve and the pipe wall, generating a reaction force against the extraction direction. This arrangement enables effective fixing of the pipe within the pressed fitting.

[0102] Furthermore, the clamping ring can have an inwardly directed web spaced apart from the clamping element, and the web defines an internal cross-section equal to or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the pipe. The clamping ring performs a pipe holding function through the web. The web holds the inserted pipe so that the pipe cannot slip out of the fitting without using great tension in the non-pressed state of the fitting. In addition, the web forms a guide for the pipe when the pipe is pushed into the fitting. If the inner cross-section is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the pipe, a slight resistance is also provided when the pipe is pushed in. Thus, when the user inserts the pipe, they receive a tactile feedback that the pipe is inserted deep enough into the fitting.

[0103] In principle, the clamping ring can also be designed as a classical metal cutting ring or a circumferential wiring, as known from the prior art.

[0104] The described embodiments enable the rigid pipe to be inserted up to a stop element in order to inform the user that the pipe to be connected is inserted sufficiently deep into the fitting. In a preferred mode, the stop element consists of at least two inwardly directed recesses, such as punch marks, preferably three punch marks. In contrast to circumferential recesses, a single recess also creates less dead space and thus a more hygienic condition.

[0105] Furthermore, the seal is designed at least partially as a lip seal and, after pressing, preferably seals the gap between the pipe and the press sleeve up to the end of the inserted pipe. This ensures a high level of hygiene and prevents crevice corrosion. By being shaped at least partially as a lip seal, after pressing the fitting, the sealing element completely closes the gap between the pipe and the fitting up to the end of the pipe. Thus, in particular in relation to the perforated pipe stop described above, dead space in which the medium can accumulate is avoided. Thus, the lip seal ensures the required system stiffness. Alternatively, the sealing element can be designed as a classical O-ring.

[0106] Another advantage is that the pipe is guided and held flat by a force transmission ring. As a result, there is less pulling on the pipe when the fitting is pressed.

[0107] An embodiment of a fitting for connecting to a flexible pipe for the aforementioned system for solving the above technical problem comprises a base body, a press sleeve connected to the base body and forming an outer contour, the press sleeve having a chamber directed inwardly towards the pipe to be received, a force transmission ring provided in the chamber, and a support body connected to the base body and provided with a sealing contour directed outwardly towards the inserted pipe. The force transmission ring is incorporated into the press sleeve, and the press sleeve including the force transmission ring and the support are provided at a distance from each other, defining an annular space for inserting and receiving a flexible pipe. A portion of the force transmission ring projects axially from the press sleeve and forms a part of the outer contour to be pressed. The press sleeve, together with the force transmission ring and the support, has a structure that seals the flexible pipe to be connected from the inside.

[0108] The press sleeve including the force transmission ring and the support are provided at a distance from each other and define an annular space for inserting and receiving the flexible pipe. During pressing, the force transmission ring provided in the chamber transmits the pressing force generated by the press jaw to the flexible pipe via the press sleeve, pressing the pipe radially inward against the support. The sealing contour provided on the outside of the support is pressed into the material of the flexible pipe, creating fixation and sealing of the flexible pipe to the fitting. The seal of the fitting to the pipe is preferably ensured without using an additional soft seal via the sealing contour and the force transmission by the force transmission ring which can be designed as a plastic ring.

[0109] In addition or alternatively, an additional soft seal, for example an O-ring or a flat seal made of ethylene propylene diene (monomer) rubber (EPDM), fluorocarbon rubber (FKM) or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) can be provided. In any case, the seal is preferably made at the outer end of the support facing the pipe, so that little or no dead space is created here.

[0110] The press sleeve or the support is formed in one piece with the base body. However, they can also be connected to the base body, for example, by material bonding such as welding or adhesion, or by force bonding such as crimping or shrink fitting.

[0111] The support is necessary for sealing a flexible pipe, particularly a multi-layer composite material pipe, against a fitting. The support is preferably made of metal, enabling significantly improved chemical resistance and robustness compared to supports made of solid plastics such as polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU).

[0112] A section of the force transmission ring protruding axially from the press sleeve forms part of the outer contour to be pressed. In this case, the chamber formed by the press sleeve is open in the axial lateral direction and is closed laterally by the force transmission ring. The protruding section of the force transmission ring not only serves to improve the force transmission to the flexible pipe but also serves to visually distinguish this fitting for the rigid pipe of the same outer contour of the above-described system from it. This is because the fitting for the rigid pipe has a press sleeve made entirely of metal. In addition, the force transmission ring of this design is easier to assemble onto the press sleeve.

[0113] Furthermore, the sleeve section and / or the force transmission ring may have cams protruding inward to guide and hold the pipe. Thereby, pipe retention, tactile feedback when overcoming the cams during pipe insertion, and guiding of the pipe during insertion are also achieved.

[0114] Furthermore, the press sleeve can have inwardly directed recesses formed, for example, as punch marks or undercuts in the wall for internal latching of the force transmission ring with the press sleeve.

[0115] Furthermore, the force transmission ring can have a cylindrical section and / or a tooth section for abutting against the inserted pipe to create fixation.

[0116] Fixation against pipe extraction is effected, for example, via corresponding retention ribs on the sealing contour of the support.

[0117] The force transmission ring may also have webs projecting inwardly that define an inner cross-section equal to or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the pipe. Thus, the webs distributed circumferentially form a guide and support for the pipe.

[0118] A further embodiment of a fitting for connecting to a rigid pipe for the aforementioned system that solves the technical problems identified above comprises a base body, a press sleeve connected to the base body and forming an outer contour, the press sleeve having a chamber directed inwardly towards the pipe to be received, a sleeve section formed at the distal end of the press sleeve and extending beyond the chamber, the sleeve section forming a part of the outer contour to be formed, a sealing element provided in the chamber, an inner part of the base body extending radially inwardly of the chamber in the direction of the pipe to be inserted, a part of the sealing element being disposed between the press sleeve and the inner part of the base body, a part of the sealing element being provided between the press sleeve and the pipe to be inserted, and the press sleeve, together with the sealing element, including a structure that seals the connected rigid pipe from the outside.

[0119] Thus, it is preferred that the sealing element fills a substantial part of the chamber or completely fills the chamber. The sealing element seals both the side of the base body and the side of the rigid pipe inserted from the front to the base body. Also, the axially extending sealing element allows for a high tolerance in the correct insertion depth of the pipe and ensures a connection with substantially no gap.

[0120] This ensures a reliable seal and a separation between the inner section of the base body and the area in contact with the medium at the end of the inserted pipe and the area of the press sleeve not in contact with the medium. In addition, the inner section of the base body and the end of the inserted pipe can also be in contact with each other at the front side. This creates a particularly good connection without restricting the open cross-section within the pipe and within the fitting body.

[0121] Also in this embodiment, the fixing function and the sealing function are realized by two separate elements. The press sleeve is preferably molded onto the base by fitting or connected to the base by material bonding.

[0122] In a preferred embodiment, the sleeve section and / or the sealing element has a cam protruding inwardly to guide and hold the pipe. This achieves pipe retention, tactile feedback when overcoming the cam during pipe insertion, and guiding of the pipe during insertion.

[0123] Furthermore, the front distal section of the press sleeve may have factory-stamped cams that serve to locally deform the rigid pipe during pressing. Thus, in this design, a clamping ring with a holding function is not necessary. In addition, torsional strength is ensured after pressing using the cams. The cams also serve to guide and hold the pipe.

[0124] Alternatively, a described fitting design with a cutting ring inserted into the chamber is also possible. In this case, the sealing element may be shorter axially than in the previously described design examples.

[0125] An embodiment of a fitting for connecting to a flexible pipe for the aforementioned system for solving the above technical problems comprises a base, a press sleeve connected to the base and forming an outer contour, the press sleeve having a chamber directed inwardly towards the pipe to be received, a force transmission ring provided in the chamber, a support provided with a sealing contour directed outwardly towards the inserted pipe and connected to the base, the press sleeve and the support being connected to the base as separate elements, the press sleeve and the force transmission ring having corresponding observation windows, and the press sleeve having a structure that seals the connected flexible pipe from the inside together with the force transmission ring and the support.

[0126] The observation window serves as a visual insertion check to ensure that the connected pipe is inserted deep enough into the fitting.

[0127] Thereby, the press sleeve including the force transmission ring and the support are provided at a distance from each other, defining a space for inserting and receiving the flexible pipe. During pressing, the force transmission ring provided in the chamber transmits the pressing force generated by the press jaw to the flexible pipe, pressing the pipe radially inwards against the support. The sealing contour provided on the outside of the support is pressed into the material of the flexible pipe, creating fixation and sealing of the flexible pipe to the fitting.

[0128] In a preferred embodiment, the press sleeve and the support are designed as separate elements and connected to the base body. Alternatively, the press sleeve or the support can be formed in one piece with the base body. In this case, they can be connected to the base body, for example, by material bonding such as welding or adhesion, or by force bonding such as crimping or shrink fitting.

[0129] The support is necessary to seal the flexible pipe, in particular a multi-layer composite pipe, against the fitting. The support is preferably made of metal, enabling significantly improved chemical resistance and robustness compared to supports made of solid plastics such as polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU).

[0130] Furthermore, the sleeve section and / or the force transmission ring can have cams protruding inwards for guiding and holding the pipe. This achieves pipe retention, tactile feedback when overcoming the cams during pipe insertion, and guiding of the pipe during insertion.

[0131] Furthermore, the force transmission ring can have a cylindrical section and / or a toothed section for contact with the inserted pipe to create fixation. By adjusting the wall thickness, the shape difference between the outer diameters of the flexible pipes can be compensated.

[0132] The seal of the fitting to the pipe is preferably ensured without using an additional soft seal via a sealing profile and force transmission by a force transmission ring that can be designed as a plastic ring. By deforming the press sleeve during pressing, the flexible pipe is pressed against the sealing profile and a sealing effect is achieved.

[0133] In addition or alternatively, an additional soft seal, for example an O-ring or a flat seal made of ethylene propylene diene (monomer) rubber (EPDM), fluorocarbon rubber (FKM) or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) can be provided. In any case, the seal is made at the outer end of the support facing the pipe, so that preferably no or almost no dead space is created here.

[0134] Fixing against the withdrawal of the pipe is effected, for example, via corresponding retaining ribs of the sealing profile of the support.

[0135] In a preferred embodiment, the press sleeve has a sleeve section extending beyond the chamber, and the sleeve section forms part of the outer contour shaped by the press jaws. The sleeve section acts to deform in the direction of the pipe in order to achieve axial fixation and, if necessary, prevention of rotation of the pipe relative to the fitting. Thus, the force transmission ring can also indirectly assume the sealing function, and the described sleeve section acts to fix it.

[0136] The force transmission ring can also have inwardly projecting webs defining an inner cross-section equal to or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the pipe. Thus, the webs distributed in the circumferential direction form a guide and support for the pipe.

[0137] The above technical problem is solved by a system for connecting rigid pipes and for connecting flexible pipes, the system including a plurality of first fittings for connection to a rigid pipe, the first fittings being formed as external sealing fittings for sealing the rigid pipe to be connected from the outside, and a plurality of second fittings for connection to a flexible pipe, the second fittings being formed as internal sealing fittings for sealing the flexible pipe to be connected from the inside, the first fittings for connection to a rigid pipe including a base body and a press sleeve connected to the base body, the second fittings for connection to a flexible pipe including a base body, a press sleeve connected to the base body, and a support connected to the base body, the base body of the first fittings for connection to a rigid pipe and the base body of the second fittings for connection to a flexible pipe having the same structure.

[0138] If the base bodies have the same dimensions and the same shape but different scales of manufacturing tolerances, they are considered to have the same structure. The goal is to mass-produce base bodies that can be used later for fittings for rigid pipes as well as for fittings for flexible pipes.

[0139] The fittings preferably correspond to the aforementioned fittings for connection to a rigid pipe and the aforementioned fittings for connection to a flexible pipe.

[0140] Therefore, the above-described fittings for a system for connecting rigid pipes and for connecting flexible pipes have, in both cases, the same base body and a matching press sleeve connected thereto. In the case of a flexible pipe, a support is added. Therefore, the base body can have only small forming distortions and can thus be made of materials that are difficult to form, such as ferritic steel like 1.4521 or duplex steel like 1.4462. Therefore, the same base body can be used for fittings for rigid pipes as well as for fittings for flexible pipes, thus enabling a modular design of the fittings of the described system. This design has production-related advantages because the same parts are used as the basis for all fittings of the system.

[0141] However, the press sleeve has different attachments for rigid pipes and flexible pipes, for example, being force-fitted to the base body by pressing in the factory. One advantage of the two-part configuration of the base body and the press sleeve is that the fitting is divided into a base body that contacts the medium and a press sleeve that does not contact the medium. This enables, for example, the use of a low-cost material for the sleeve while manufacturing the base body from a very high-quality corrosion-resistant material. In principle, the materials can be selected especially considering the respective requirements, i.e., the medium conveyed by the rigid pipe and / or the flexible pipe.

[0142] All of the above-described fittings must also be shaped with a flat chamber and a transition as soft as possible so as to facilitate subsequent insulation. This is because the flat chamber and the soft transition make it easier to push the heat-insulating pipe onto the pipe and the fitting without being caught by the protrusion or blade. It is preferably selected such that the ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length is small, a large radius is used, no beads or sharp blades are formed, and / or the transition between different stages is preferably formed as an inclined portion with a small angle.

[0143] The aforementioned fitting also has the advantage of being of a robust construction compared to plastic fittings. For example, a number of robust metal parts are integrated into the fitting so that there is little or no damage to the support when the pipe is bent. The use of a cutting element in the fitting for rigid pipes also achieves an improvement in robustness because the connection providing fixation is a fitting connection rather than a friction connection.

[0144] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described by way of exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0145]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 1C

Figure 1D

Figure 1E

Figure 1F

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Figure 2C

Figure 2D

Figure 2E

Figure 2F

Figure 3A

Figure 3B

Figure 3C

Figure 3D

Figure 3E

Figure 3F

Figure 3G

Figure 3H

Figure 3I

Figure 3J

Figure 3K

Figure 3L

Figure 3M

Figure 3N

Figure 3O

Figure 3P

Figure 3Q

Figure 3R

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

Figure 4C

Figure 4D

Figure 4E

Figure 5A

Figure 5B

Figure 5C

Figure 5D

Figure 5E

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 6C

Figure 7A

Figure 7B

Figure 7C

Figure 7D

Figure 7E

Figure 7F

Figure 7G

Figure 8A

Figure 8B

Figure 8C

Figure 8D

Figure 8E

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0146] In the following description of various embodiments of the present invention, components and elements having the same function and the same operation mode are given the same reference numerals, even if their dimensions or shapes in various embodiments are different.

[0147] First, an example of an embodiment of the system according to the present invention for connecting a rigid pipe and for connecting a flexible pipe will be described below. Then, the details of the individual fittings according to the present invention will be discussed.

[0148] Figures 1A and 1B show a first system 2 according to the present invention for connecting a rigid pipe 4 and for connecting a flexible pipe 6, wherein the pipes 4 and 6 have corresponding outer diameters. The system 2 includes a press jaw 10 having a press contour 8, which is suitable for pressing different fittings 20, 40 as will be described below, and includes an upper press jaw half 10a and a lower press jaw half 10b.

[0149] Referring to Figure 1A, the system 2 further includes at least one first fitting 20 for press-fitting onto the rigid pipe 4, and the at least one first fitting 20 includes a first press sleeve 21 provided with a first outer contour 22.

[0150] Referring further to Figure 1B, the system 2 includes at least one second fitting 40 for press-fitting onto the flexible pipe 6, and the at least one second fitting 40 includes a second press sleeve 41 having a second outer contour 42.

[0151] According to the present invention, the outer contour 22 of the first press sleeve 21 and the outer contour 42 of the second press sleeve 41 are each at least partially adapted to the press contour 8 of the press jaw 10 and can be pressed by the press jaw 10.

[0152] In Figures 1A and 1B, the above-described components are shown in cross-section, and the upper press jaw half 10a and the lower press jaw half 10b are in contact with the fittings 20, 40 before pressing. Further details of the press jaw 10 and the two fittings 20, 40 will be described in connection with other figures.

[0153] Thus, according to the present invention, using the same press jaw 10 with the same press profile 8, both the first fitting 20 for connecting to the rigid pipe 4 and the second fitting 40 for connecting to the flexible pipe 6 can be pressed and permanently sealed. This feature particularly applies to rigid pipes 4 and flexible pipes 6 having the same outer diameter or at least matching outer diameters.

[0154] Thereby, for joining rigid pipes 4 and flexible pipes 6 of the same dimensions, the same press jaw 10 with the same press profile 8 and using the same press tool (not shown) is used to generate the required pressing force, thus reducing the labor at the construction site. While the press tool preferably generates a linear movement of the plunger or piston, the two press jaws 10 are moved towards each other to the closed position by the run-in profile, so that the press sleeve 21 or the press sleeve 41 is deformed radially inwards.

[0155] In addition, the press jaw can also be designed as part of a press loop whose protruding ends are pressed together by a press device to cause a deformation acting radially inwards as a result.

[0156] As detailed in the introduction, the fitting 20 or the fitting 40 is understood to particularly mean a straight connection. Direction changes in the form of pipe bends, reducers, branches such as Ts or crosses with two or more press sections are also possible. Furthermore, the fitting of the armature or the pipe connection can comprise only one press section.

[0157] As a result of the outer contour 22 of the first press sleeve 21 and the outer contour 42 of the second press sleeve 41 each being at least partially adapted to the press contour 8 of the press jaw 10, when the press jaws 10 are moved together, on the one hand, at least a part of the press contour 8 and, on the other hand, at least a part of the outer contour 22 of the first press sleeve 21 or the outer contour 42 of the second press sleeve 41 come into contact with each other at least partially and gradually. By moving the press jaws 10 together to a predetermined end position, the press sleeves 21, 41 are completely pressed and deformed. In this process, the press sleeves 21, 41 are deformed in the same way by the press jaws 10 in geometrically corresponding sections. In this way, the effect according to the invention that one press jaw 10 is suitable for two different press sleeves 21, 41 of two fittings 20, 40 is achieved. In particular, the press sleeves 21, 41 can mainly have the same design.

[0158] Furthermore, various size dimensions are shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B to characterize the shapes of the fittings 20, 40 for the rigid pipe 4 and the flexible pipe 6 in relation to the shape of the press jaw 10 before pressing.

[0159] FIGS. 1C and 1D show the system 2 for connecting the rigid pipe 4 and the flexible pipe 6 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B in a pressed state. Various size dimensions are shown to characterize the shapes of the fittings 20, 40 for the rigid pipe 4 and the flexible pipe 6 in combination with the shape of the press jaw 10 after pressing.

[0160] FIG. 1A shows, in the state before pressing respectively, the inner diameter DK(starr) of the chamber 23 of the press sleeve 21, the wall thickness s(starr) of the press sleeve 21 in the area of the fitting 20 to be pressed, and the outer diameter DR(starr) of the rigid pipe 4 to be received.

[0161] In FIG. 1C, the inner diameter DPK(starr) after pressing of the press contour 8 of the press jaw 10 in the area of the first fitting 20 to be pressed is depicted.

[0162] From the dimensions shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C,

[0163]

Number

[0164] the degree of compression β(starr) obtained thereby is obtained.

[0165] The degree of compression β(starr) preferably takes a value of β(starr) < 1.5. With such a degree of compression, it is guaranteed that a firm connection with high pull-out strength is achieved, and wrinkles during the compression of the connected pipe and fitting are minimized. For a firm connection with high pull-out strength, preferably, the degree of compression β(starr) takes a value of β(starr) < 0.12, and particularly preferably β(starr) < 0.10.

[0166] At a degree of compression β(starr) of 0 corresponding to 0% degree of compression, no sealing compression occurs between the fitting and the connected pipe. At a degree of compression of 0.15 or more corresponding to a degree of compression of 15% or more, the fitting or pipe to be pressed is deformed too much, so that wrinkles in the material to be pressed occur, and deformation of the fitting and pipe pressed by excessive pressing force is caused.

[0167] FIG. 1B shows, in the state before pressing respectively, the inner diameter DK(flex) of the chamber 43 of the press sleeve 41, the wall thickness s(flex) of the press sleeve 41 in the area of the fitting 40 to be pressed, and the outer diameter DR(flex) of the flexible pipe 6 to be accommodated.

[0168] In FIG. 1D, the inner diameter DPK(flex) after pressing of the press contour 8 of the press jaw 10 in the area of the second fitting 40 to be pressed is shown.

[0169] From the dimensions shown in FIGS. 1B and 1D,

[0170]

Number

[0171] the degree of compression β(flex) obtained thereby is obtained.

[0172] The degree of compression β(flex) preferably takes a value of β(flex) < 0.15. With such a degree of compression, it is guaranteed that a firm connection with high pull-out strength is achieved, and wrinkles during the compression of the pipes and fittings to be connected are minimized. Preferred for a firm connection with high pull-out strength is a degree of compression β(flex) that takes a value of β(flex) < 0.12, particularly preferably β(flex) < 0.10.

[0173] At a degree of compression β(flex) of 0 corresponding to 0% degree of compression, no sealing compression occurs between the pipe to which the fitting is connected. Furthermore, at a degree of compression of 0.15 or more corresponding to a degree of compression of 15% or more, the fitting to be pressed or the pipe to be pressed is deformed too much, so that wrinkles occur in the material to be pressed, and it has been shown that deformation of the fitting and pipe pressed by excessive pressing force is caused.

[0174] When FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C and 1D are viewed together, the ratio τ of the degree of compression β(starr) to the degree of compression β(flex) is obtained from the dimensions, and τ is

[0175]

Number

[0176] obtained thereby.

[0177] The ratio τ preferably takes a value from the range [0.50; 1.50]. With such a ratio τ, an equal degree of compression as much as possible can be ensured between the press of the fitting for connecting the rigid pipe 4 and the press of the fitting for connecting the flexible pipe 6. Therefore, a firm connection between the fitting and the pipe connected using the same pressing tool in both pressing processes can be achieved.

[0178] In this way, when optimally pressing the fitting together with the rigid pipe 4, crushing or insufficient pressing of the fitting and the flexible pipe 6 can be prevented when pressing using the same pressing tool, the press jaw 10. At the same time, with an optimal press of the fitting and the flexible pipe 6, crushing or insufficient pressing of the fitting and the rigid pipe 4 can be prevented when pressing using the same pressing tool. Preferred for the optimal press for the connection of the rigid pipe as well as the flexible pipe is a ratio τ that takes a value from the range [0.75; 1.25], particularly preferably [0.80; 1.20].

[0179] For a ratio τ < 0.5 for the optimal compression of the fitting and the rigid pipe 4, it has been shown that the fitting for connection with the flexible pipe 6 is overcompressed when compressed with the same compression tool, resulting in wrinkles and crushing of the flexible pipe 6. On the other hand, for a ratio τ > 1.5, due to the optimal compression of the fitting and the rigid pipe 4, the compression of the fitting and the flexible pipe 6 becomes too small when compressed with the same compression tool. Such insufficient compression usually leads to leakage at the connection between the fitting and the flexible pipe 6 and insufficient pull-out strength.

[0180] Furthermore, when the ratio τ when optimally pressing the fitting together with the flexible pipe 6 is τ > 1.5, the fitting for connection to the rigid pipe 4 is over-pressed when pressed using the same pressing tool, causing wrinkles and crushing of the rigid pipe 4. Furthermore, excessive compression of the fitting for connection to the rigid pipe 4 can cause damage to the sealing element and / or other elements within the chamber 23 of the compression sleeve 21. On the other hand, a ratio τ < 0.5 when optimally pressing the fitting together with the flexible pipe 6 results in under-pressing of the fitting with respect to the rigid pipe 4 when pressed using the same pressing tool. Such under-compression typically results in leakage at the connection between the fitting and the rigid pipe 4, and insufficient pull-out strength.

[0181] Figures 2A and 2B show a second system 102 according to the invention for connecting a rigid pipe 4 and for connecting a flexible pipe 6, wherein the pipes 4 and 6 have corresponding outer diameters. The system 102 includes a press jaw half 110a of a press jaw 110 having a press contour 108 suitable for pressing different fittings 120, 140, as will be described below.

[0182] The system 102 includes at least one first fitting 120 for press-fitting onto the rigid pipe 4, the at least one first fitting 120 including a first press sleeve 121 provided with a first outer contour 122.

[0183] The system 102 further includes at least one second fitting 140 for press-fitting onto the flexible pipe 6, the at least one second fitting 140 including a second press sleeve 141 having a second outer contour 142.

[0184] According to the present invention, the outer contour 122 of the first press sleeve 121 and the outer contour 142 of the second press sleeve 141 are each at least partially adapted to the press contour 108 of the press jaw 110 and can be pressed by the press jaw 110.

[0185] In contrast to the first system 2, in the system 102, the first press sleeve 121 has a first additional press section 121a and the second press sleeve 141 has a second additional press section 141b. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the first additional press section 121a and the second additional press section 141b have outer contours that are different from each other and can each be shaped using the corresponding sections 108a, 108b of the press jaw 110 and its press contour 108. Thus, it is possible to mold different functionalities into the press sleeves 121, 141 for the rigid pipe 4 and the flexible pipe 6 using the same press jaw 110. Furthermore, since the press sleeves 121, 141 have matching press sections 121c, 141c, they are deformed in the same way by the same section 108c of the press contour 108 of the press jaw 110 during the press.

[0186] FIGS. 1E and 1F show both fittings 20, 40 in side view. The outer contours 22, 42 of the two press sleeves 21, 41 match, so that the same press jaw 10 can be used to press the press sleeves 21, 41. The same correspondence of the press sleeves 121, 141 is shown in the corresponding FIGS. 2E and 2F of the fittings 120, 140.

[0187] As shown in FIGS. 1A to 2F, the press sleeves 22, 122 and the press sleeves 42, 142 each have chambers 23, 123 and chambers 43, 143 that face inwardly toward the pipe 4 or the pipe 6 to be received, for accommodating further functional elements necessary for pressing and sealing the connection portions, the various shapes and functions of which are described in connection with other figures. Accordingly, the same or similar chambers 23, 123 and chambers 42, 142 accommodate different functional elements respectively.

[0188] Similar to FIGS. 1A and 1B, FIGS. 2A and 2B show the dimensions of various sizes used to characterize the shapes of the fittings 120, 140 for the rigid pipe 4 and the flexible pipe 6 in relation to the shape of the press jaw 10 before pressing.

[0189] Furthermore, similar to FIGS. 1C and 1D, FIGS. 2C and 2D show the system 102 for connecting the rigid pipe 4 and for connecting the flexible pipe 6 in a pressed state. The dimensions of various sizes for characterizing the shapes of the fittings 120, 140 for the rigid pipe 4 and the flexible pipe 6 in combination with the shape of the press jaw 110 after pressing are shown.

[0190] FIG. 2A shows, in the state before pressing respectively, the inner diameter DK(starr) of the chamber 123 of the press sleeve 121, the wall thickness s(starr) of the press sleeve 121 of the area of the fitting 120 to be pressed, and the diameter DR(starr) of the rigid pipe 4 to be received.

[0191] FIG. 2C shows the inner diameter DPK(starr) after pressing of the press contour 108 of the press jaw 110 of the area of the first fitting 120 to be pressed.

[0192] From the dimensions given in FIGS. 2A and 2C, the degree of compression β(starr) already described in connection with FIG. 1 is

[0193]

Number

[0194] is obtained by

[0195] FIG. 2B shows, in the state before pressing, the inner diameter DK(flex) of the chamber 143 of the press sleeve 141, the wall thickness s(flex) of the press sleeve 141 in the area of the fitting 140 to be pressed, and the diameter DR(flex) of the flexible pipe 6 to be received.

[0196] FIG. 2D shows the inner diameter DPK(flex) after pressing of the press profile 108 of the press jaw 110 in the area of the second fitting 140 to be pressed.

[0197] From the dimensions shown in FIGS. 2B and 2D, the degree of compression β(flex) already described in connection with FIG. 1 is

[0198]

Number

[0199] is obtained by

[0200] FIGS. 3A - 3I show examples of embodiments of the first system 2 according to the present invention shown in FIG. 1 for determining various sizes for characterizing the shapes of fittings for rigid pipes and flexible pipes. In this case, only the press sleeve 21 or press sleeve 41 and the inserted pipe 4 or pipe 6 are shown without the elements inside the fitting required for pressing. In the following, the sizes are determined based on dimensions such as the height, length, and volume of the chamber 23 or chamber 43.

[0201] Figure 3A first shows a first fitting 20 for pressing a rigid pipe 4, which comprises a press sleeve 21 having an inwardly directed chamber 23. As can be seen in Figure 3A, the chamber length LK(starr) is defined as the length of the section of the chamber 23 whose outer contour 22 is substantially plane-parallel to the outer shell of the rigid pipe 4 surrounded by the fitting 20. Thus, LK(starr) is defined as the length of the section between the sections of the outer contour 22 of the chamber 23 curved towards the pipe 4.

[0202] It is further evident that the inner diameter DK(starr) of the chamber 23 is defined without adding the wall thickness of the chamber 23, whereas the outer diameter DR(starr) of the rigid pipe 4 to be accommodated is defined by adding the wall thickness of the pipe 4. Thus, the height of the chamber 23 is obtained by the difference of DK(starr) - DR(starr). As a result, the chamber volume

[0203]

Number

[0204] is obtained.

[0205] Figure 3B shows a second fitting 40 for pressing a flexible pipe 6, which comprises a press sleeve 41 having an inwardly directed chamber 43. Similar to Figure 3A, in Figure 3B it can be seen that the chamber length LK(flex) is defined as the length of the section of the chamber 43 whose outer contour 42 is substantially plane-parallel to the outer shell of the flexible pipe 6 surrounded by the fitting 40. Thus, LK(flex) is defined as the length of the section between the sections of the outer contour 42 of the chamber 43 curved towards the pipe 6.

[0206] Furthermore, it can be seen that the inner diameter DK(flex) of the chamber 43 is defined without adding the wall thickness of the chamber 43, while the outer diameter DR(flex) of the flexible pipe 6 to be accommodated is defined by adding the wall thickness s(flex) of the pipe 6. Therefore, the height of the chamber 43 is obtained by the difference between DK(flex) and DR(flex). As a result, the chamber volume

[0207]

Number

[0208] is obtained.

[0209] From these chamber volumes, a ratio

[0210]

Number

[0211] occurs.

[0212] From the aforementioned dimensions according to FIGS. 3A and 3B, a ratio ε(starr) and ε(flex) of the chamber height to the chamber length can also occur.

[0213] Accordingly, ε(starr) is

[0214]

Number

[0215] defined by.

[0216] ε(flex) is

[0217]

Number

[0218] defined by.

[0219] Furthermore, the ratio α can also be

[0220] [Number]

[0221] calculated by. In the formula, α takes a value from the range of values [0.50; 3.00], preferably [0.50; 1.50], particularly preferably [0.75; 1.25].

[0222] Therefore, α represents the ratio of the chamber height ((DK(starr) - DR(flex) / 2) and the chamber length DK(starr) of the press sleeve 21 of the fitting 20 for pressing the rigid pipe 4, and the chamber height (DK(starr) - DR(flex) / 2) and the length DK(starr) of the press sleeve 41 of the fitting 40 for pressing the flexible pipe 6.

[0223] Here, FIGS. 3C to 3I each show a pair formed from the first fitting 20 shown in FIG. 3A and the second fitting 40 shown in FIG. 3B. As a result of the variation in the dimensions of the fittings 20, 40, the value of the ratio of the chamber volumes or the value of the ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length of the chambers 23, 43 is different, and both ratios are given by δ.

[0224] In the ratio of δ = 1 or α = 1 according to FIG. 3C, the inner space of the chambers 23, 43 provides sufficient space for elements, such as O-rings or crawlers, to be received by the chambers 23, 43. In addition, an optimal degree of compression can be guaranteed for both the first fitting 20 and the second fitting 40.

[0225] Figures 3D to 3F show examples of dimensions that result in a ratio of δ < 0.5 or α < 0.5. The dimensions selected in this way are such that, as shown in Figure 3D, the chamber length of the chamber 23 of the first fitting 20 is too short, or as shown in Figure 3F, the chamber height of the chamber 23 is too low, resulting in no space for elements to be received in the chamber 23, or as shown in Figure 3E, the chamber height of the chamber 43 of the second fitting 40 is too high, resulting in too high a degree of compression.

[0226] Figures 3G to 3I show examples of dimensions that result in a ratio of δ > 1.5 or α > 1.5. The dimensions selected in this way are such that, as shown in Figure 3G, the chamber length of the chamber 43 of the second fitting 40 is too short, or as shown in Figure 3H, the chamber height of the chamber 43 of the second fitting 40 is too low, resulting in no space for elements to be received in the chamber 43, or as shown in Figure 3I, the chamber height of the chamber 23 of the first fitting 20 is too high, resulting in too high a degree of compression.

[0227] In other embodiments of the fitting, the limit values 0.5 ≦ δ ≦ 3.00 or 0.5 ≦ α ≦ 3.00 may also apply.

[0228] Figures 3J and 3K show an embodiment of a second system 102 according to the present invention comprising fittings 120, 140.

[0229] Figure 3J first shows a first fitting 120 for pressing a rigid pipe 4, which comprises a press sleeve 121 having a chamber 123 directed inward. As can be seen in Figure 3J, the chamber length LK(starr) is defined as the length of the portion of the chamber 123 where the outer contour 122 of the chamber 123 is substantially parallel to the outer shell of the rigid pipe 4 surrounded by the fitting 120. Thus, LK(starr) is defined as the length of the portion between the portions of the outer contour 122 of the chamber 123 that are curved towards the pipe 4. The chamber diameter DK(starr) is defined without adding the wall thickness of the chamber 123, while it is further clear that the diameter DR(starr) of the rigid pipe 4 to be accommodated is defined by adding the wall thickness of the pipe 4. Thus, the height of the chamber 123 is obtained by the difference between DK(starr) and DR(starr).

[0230] Figure 3K shows a second fitting 140 for pressing a flexible pipe 6, which comprises a press sleeve 141 having a chamber 143 directed inward. Similar to Figure 3J, in Figure 3K, it can be seen that the chamber length LK(flex) is defined as the length of the portion of the chamber 143 where the outer contour 142 of the chamber 143 is substantially parallel to the outer shell of the flexible pipe 6 surrounded by the fitting 140. Thus, LK(flex) is defined as the length of the portion between the portions of the outer contour 142 of the chamber 143 that are curved towards the pipe 6. The chamber diameter DK(flex) is defined without adding the wall thickness of the chamber 143, while it is further clear that the diameter DR(flex) of the flexible pipe 6 to be accommodated is defined by adding the wall thickness s(flex) of the pipe 6. Thus, the height of the chamber 143 is obtained by the difference between DK(flex) and DK(flex).

[0231] In fittings 120 and 140, as a result of these definitions, the chamber volume

[0232]

Number

[0233] and

[0234] [Number]

[0235] and their relationships

[0236] [Number]

[0237] are brought about.

[0238] Similarly, when α is

[0239] [Number]

[0240] obtained by, for the press sleeve 121 of the fitting 120 for pressing the rigid pipe 4, the ratio of the chamber height (DK(starr) - DR(flex) / 2) to the chamber length DK(starr), and, for the press sleeve 141 of the fitting 140 for pressing the flexible pipe 6, the ratio of the chamber height (DK(starr) - DR(flex) / 2) to the length DK(starr), gives the ratio of the ratios.

[0241] Here, FIGS. 3L to 3R each show a pair formed by the first fitting 120 shown in FIG. 3J and the second fitting 140 shown in FIG. 3K. As a result of dimensional variations, the values of the ratio of the chamber volumes and the values of the ratio of the chamber height to the chamber length are different, and both ratios are indicated by δ and α, respectively.

[0242] For a ratio of δ = 1 or α = 1 as shown in FIG. 3L, the inner spaces of the chambers 123, 143 provide sufficient space for elements, such as sealing elements, to be received by the chambers 123, 143. In addition, an optimal degree of compression can be ensured as a result in both the first fitting 120 and the second fitting 140.

[0243] FIGS. 3M to 3O show examples of dimensions that result in a ratio of δ < 0.5 or α < 0.5. The dimensions thus selected are such that, as shown in FIG. 3M, the chamber length of the chamber 123 of the first fitting 120 is too short, or as shown in FIG. 3O, the chamber height of the chamber 123 is too low, resulting in no space for elements to be received in the chamber 123, or as shown in FIG. 3N, the chamber height of the chamber 143 of the second fitting 140 is too high, resulting in too high a degree of compression.

[0244] FIGS. 3P to 3R show examples of dimensions that result in a ratio of δ > 1.5 or α > 1.5. The dimensions thus selected are such that, as shown in FIG. 3P, the chamber length of the chamber 143 of the second fitting 140 is too short, or as shown in FIG. 3Q, the chamber height of the chamber 143 of the second fitting 140 is too low, resulting in no space for elements to be received in the chamber 143, or as shown in FIG. 3R, the chamber height of the chamber 123 of the first fitting 120 is too high, resulting in too high a degree of compression.

[0245] In other embodiments of the fitting, the limit values 0.5 ≦ δ ≦ 3.00 or 0.5 ≦ α ≦ 3.00 may also apply.

[0246] Hereinafter, the individual embodiments of the fittings 20, 120 and the fittings 40, 140 will be described in detail with the aid of further figures.

[0247] Figs. 4A - 4E show a first embodiment of a fitting 20 for connecting to the rigid pipe 4 of the system 2 described above with reference to Figs. 1A - 1F. This fitting has a base body 24 and an inwardly projecting stop element 25 formed circumferentially on the base body 24. Further, a press sleeve 21 connected to the base body 24 to form an outer contour 22 is provided, and this press sleeve 21 has a chamber 23 directed inwardly towards the pipe 4 to be received. A clamp ring 26 made of a plastic material with a plurality of clamp elements 27 aligned against the withdrawal direction of the inserted pipe 4 is provided in the chamber 23. In addition, a sealing element 28 with a round section 28a and a flat section 28b forming a lip seal is provided in the chamber 23 adjacent to the stop element 25.

[0248] The press sleeve 21 is integrally connected to the base body 24, so that a press section in the form of the press sleeve 21 and the base body 24 can be manufactured in one piece in an advantageous manner.

[0249] The stop element 25 consists of two inwardly directed radially opposed recesses 25a, designed, for example, as punch marks. Thus, the pipe stop is perforated and not circumferential, and dead space is avoided even when the pipe 4 is inserted and the seal 28 seals the area of the stop element 25. In Fig. 4B, a pair of radially opposed punch marks is shown on each side of the fitting 20, one pair on each side of the respective fitting.

[0250] The pipe 4 is designed as a plastic clamping ring and is fixed by a clamping ring 26 provided with a metal cutting blade as a clamping element 27 against pulling out and / or against excessive internal pressure. The plastic clamping ring 26 also has circumferential slots 26a, 26b that make the clamping ring 26 as a whole flexible and thus facilitate its assembly into the press sleeve 21 of the fitting 20. In addition, this enables the clamping ring 26 to be formed as a circumferentially closed ring and to more easily reduce the radius during pressing.

[0251] The clamping element 27 is designed as a cutting blade in the form of a wire element that is inserted into a recess provided for this purpose. Thus, the clamping element 27 is fitted and fixed within the plastic of the clamping ring 26. The clamping element 27 can be manufactured in various ways, for example as a casting or a stamping. The number of clamping elements 27 is six, but can be determined according to the requirements or dimensions of the clamping ring 26.

[0252] Furthermore, the clamping element 27 is provided opposite the stop element 25 in the distal area of the chamber 23, and the clamping element 27 deforms the pipe 4 in a perforated manner, thereby absorbing the pulling force by hitting the wall at the distal outer corner area 21a of the press sleeve 21 (see Figure 4E). This ensures a direct force flow from the pipe 4 through the press sleeve 21 to the fitting 4. After pressing, the clamping ring 26 only has a supporting function and contributes little or not at all to pull-out protection.

[0253] Furthermore, the clamping ring 26 has a web 26c that is directed inwardly spaced from the clamping element 27, and the web 26c defines an inner cross-section that is equal to or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the pipe 4. The web 26c holds the pipe 4 so that the pipe 4 cannot slip out of the fitting 20 in the non-pressed state of the fitting 20 according to FIG. 4D. In addition, an inwardly directed web 26d is also formed to guide the inserted pipe 4 during insertion.

[0254] In addition, the web 26c forms a guide portion for the pipe 4 when the pipe 4 is pushed into the fitting 20. When the inner cross-section of the inner surface of the web 26c is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the pipe 4, the pipe 4 is given low resistance when pushed in. Thus, when the pipe 4 is pushed in, the user receives a tactile feedback that the pipe 4 is inserted into the fitting.

[0255] The seal 28 is designed as a lip seal with sections 28a, 28b and seals the gap 29 between the pipe 4 and the press sleeve 21 up to the end 4a of the inserted pipe 4 after pressing. For this purpose, the seal 28 is arranged such that, on the one hand, the round section 28a in the chamber 23 is in contact with the inclined section. The flat section 28b is arranged between the press sleeve 21 and the inserted pipe 4, which is particularly evident in the pressed state of FIG. 4E. After pressing, the gap 29 is thus filled.

[0256] The pressing process becomes apparent by comparing FIGS. 4D and 4E. The two press jaw halves 10a, 10b are moved radially inwards, and the press sleeve 21 is deformed radially inwards by the contact of the press contours 8 of the two press jaw halves 10a, 10b. On the one hand, this causes the clamping ring 26 to deform so that the clamping element 27 is pushed inwards into the material of the pipe 4, thereby achieving fixation with the fitting 20 of the pipe 4. On the other hand, due to the deformation of the press sleeve 21, the seal 28, and in particular section 28b also deforms radially inwards as a lip seal, and the seal 28 seals the gap 29.

[0257] In this way, a high level of hygiene is ensured by the sealing element 28 and crevice corrosion is prevented. Thus, together with the perforated pipe stop 25, dead spaces where the medium could accumulate are avoided. The lip seal also ensures the rigidity of the system.

[0258] FIGS. 5A - 5E show a fitting 40 for connecting the flexible pipe 6 of the system 2 according to FIGS. 1A - 1F. The fitting 40 has a base body 44 and a press sleeve 41 connected thereto which forms an outer contour 42. The press sleeve 41 forms a chamber 43 directed inwards towards the pipe 6 to be received, in which a force transmission ring 46 is provided. Furthermore, a support 50 is provided which is connected to the base body 44 and has a sealing contour 48 directed outwards towards the pipe 6 to be inserted.

[0259] The press sleeve 41 and the support 50 are provided at a distance from each other and delimit a space for inserting and receiving the pipe 6, as can be seen particularly in FIG. 5D.

[0260] The press sleeve 41 and the support 50 are joined to the base body 44 by welding. The support 50 is necessary to seal the flexible pipe 6, in particular a multi-layer composite pipe, against the fitting 40. The support 50 is preferably made of metal, enabling significantly improved chemical resistance and robustness compared to supports made of solid plastic.

[0261] Furthermore, the press sleeve 41 has wall depressions 41a in the form of punch marks for the internal locking of the force transmission ring 46 and the press sleeve 41. Thereby, the force transmission ring 46 is arranged and fixed within the press sleeve 41.

[0262] The force transmission ring 46 has cylindrical sections 46a, 46b and inwardly projecting ribs 46c for the engagement with the inserted pipe 6.

[0263] The seal of the fitting 40 against the pipe 6 is preferably ensured via the sealing contour 48 of the support 50 and the force transmission by the force transmission ring 46 without using an additional soft seal.

[0264] The pressing of the fitting 40 becomes apparent by comparing FIGS. 5D and 5E. The two press jaw halves 10a, 10b are moved radially inward, and the press sleeve 41 is deformed radially inward by the contact of the press contours 8 of the two press jaw halves 10a, 10b. On the one hand, this deforms the force transmission ring 46, so that a force is transmitted to the material of the pipe 6. Thus, the pipe 6 is deformed radially inward and thereby pressed in a sealing manner against the sealing contour 48 of the support 50. Sealing occurs at the outer end 50a of the support 50 facing the pipe 6, so that no dead space is created in this area.

[0265] The fixation against the removal of the pipe 6 is effected, for example, via the retaining ribs 48a of the sealing contour 48.

[0266] Furthermore, FIGS. 5A-5E show that the section 46d of the force transmission ring 46 axially projects from the press sleeve 41 and forms part of the outer contour 42 to be pressed. This design achieves an appearance different from that of the fitting 20 and facilitates the distinction between the fitting 20 and the fitting 40 of the system.

[0267] The press sleeve 41 also has an observation window 51 so that the insertion of the pipe 6 can be checked. If the pipe 6 has a special color, this can be clearly seen as a signal color through the observation window 51 of the press sleeve 41.

[0268] FIG. 6A shows a first alternative embodiment of the fitting 40 in which the press sleeve 41 is a split part and is joined to the base body 44 by a weld 44a, while the support 50 is integrally formed with the base body 44.

[0269] From the description of the fittings 20, 40, the outer contours 22, 42 of the press sleeves 21, 41 are substantially the same, and the fittings 20, 40 are suitable for the system as shown in FIGS. 1A-1F. When the user switches between the press fitting 20 and the press fitting 40, the fittings 20, 40 can be pressed by the same press joist 10 without the need to replace the press tool.

[0270] FIG. 6B shows another alternative embodiment of the non-pressed fitting 40, where the same reference numerals indicate the same or similar elements, each having the same function.

[0271] In the embodiment according to FIG. 6B, an axial extension 46e of the section 46d of the force transmission ring 46 is provided, which facilitates and thus improves the application of the press tool. Furthermore, the rib 46c is designed to be offset axially inwards, so that when the pipe is inserted, the friction to be overcome and the associated tactile signal during connection occur at an axial position closer to the maximum insertion depth.

[0272] Furthermore, the fitting 40 according to FIG. 6B has a support 50, and on its outer side, a circumferential radially inwardly extending depression in the form of a bead 50b is formed. A seal in the form of an O-ring 53 is provided within the bead 50b, which contacts the inside of the pipe when the pipe is pushed forward and creates an additional sealing effect during compression. This design is more favorable for flow than a continuous small inner diameter.

[0273] A further modification of the fitting 40 compared to the design according to FIG. 6A is that the observation window 51 is provided axially offset in the direction of the base 44 and is not provided in the area of the press contour 8. The advantage of this design is that the observation window can also be seen during the pressing process and is not covered by the press profile.

[0274] FIG. 6C shows a further embodiment that is basically similar to the embodiment of FIG. 6B, with other dimensions selected.

[0275] In contrast to FIGS. 6A and 6C, in FIGS. 6A and 6C the base 46 is designed as a molded part, while in FIG. 6B the base 44 is designed as a solid turned part.

[0276] FIGS. 7A - 7D show a fitting 120 for connecting to the rigid pipe 4 for the system according to FIGS. 2A - 2F. The fitting 120 has a base 124 and a press sleeve 121 connected thereto that forms an outer contour 122. The press sleeve 121 has a chamber 123 directed inwardly towards the pipe 4 to be received. At the distal end of the press sleeve 121, a sleeve section 121a extending beyond the chamber 123 is formed. The sleeve section 121a forms part of the outer contour 122 to be molded. Further, a sealing element 128 is provided within the chamber 123.

[0277] The press sleeve 121 is fitted and molded onto the base body 124 with a section 121b, as a result of which a tapering of the diameter of the base body 124 occurs at section 124a. Thus, the press sleeve 121 is firmly connected to the base body 124.

[0278] Furthermore, the inner section 124b of the base body 124 extends radially inwards of the chamber 123 in the direction of the inserted pipe 4. Thereby, as can be seen in particular from FIGS. 7C and 7D, a section 128a of the sealing element 128 is provided between the press sleeve 121 and the inner section 124b of the base body 124, and a further section 128b of the sealing element 128 is provided between the press sleeve 121 and the inserted pipe 4.

[0279] The sealing element 128 fills a substantial part of the chamber 123 and thus seals both the side of the base body 124 and the side of the rigid pipe 4 that is pushed in from the end to the base 4. This enables separation between the area of the base body 124 in contact with the medium and the area of the press sleeve 121 not in contact with the medium. Also, the long sealing element 128 allows for a high tolerance of the correct insertion depth of the pipe 4 and ensures an almost gapless connection between the fitting 102 and the pipe 4.

[0280] Furthermore, the sleeve section 121a and the sealing element 128 have inwardly projecting cams 121c and cams 128c that are circumferentially distributed to guide and hold the pipe 4. Thereby, the retention of the pipe 4, the tactile feedback when overcoming the cams 121c and cams 128c during insertion of the pipe to check the insertion depth, and the guiding of the pipe during insertion are also achieved. In contrast, the cams 128d of the sealing element 128, also provided circumferentially, are already in contact with the outside of the inner section 124b in the non-pressed state.

[0281] The cam 121c stamped at the factory in the front section of the press sleeve 121 also helps with the local deformation of the rigid pipe 4 between the presses. Therefore, in this design, a clamping ring with a holding function is not necessary. In addition, after the press using the cam 121c, the torsional strength is guaranteed.

[0282] The pressing process is illustrated by the comparison between FIGS. 7C and 7D. Two press jaw halves 110a, 110b are moved radially inward, and the press sleeve 121 is deformed radially inward by the contact of the press contours 108 of the two press jaw halves 110a, 110b. Sections 108a, 108c of the press contour 108 are placed in contact with sections 121a, 121c of the press sleeve 121 and deform the press sleeve 121 radially inward at these two sections. On the one hand, this causes section 121a to be deformed onto the pipe 4, and section 121a can be formed completely or only partially circumferentially. On the other hand, the deformation of section 121c results in the deformation of the sealing element 128, so that the pipe 4 is sealed against the press sleeve 121. In this process, sections 128a of the sealing element 128 and the cam 128d are pressed against the outside of the inner section 124a of the base body 124. Similarly, sections 128b and the ring 128c are pressed against the outside of the pipe 4. In this way, both the base body 124 of the fitting 120 and the pipe 4 are sealed against the outer press sleeve 121.

[0283] As can be further seen from FIGS. 7C and 7D, the inserted pipe 4 abuts against the end face of the section 124b of the base body 124. This prevents a change in cross-section at the transition between the pipe 4 and the fitting 120.

[0284] FIG. 7E shows the annular sealing element in a perspective view, and FIGS. 7F and 7G show two views of the annular sealing element 128 cut at different azimuth angles. The bead-like sections 128a, 128b directed inward in the circumferential direction further have inwardly directed cams 128c, 128d having the functions described above.

[0285] Figures 8A - 8D show a fitting 140 for connecting to the flexible pipe 6 of the system 102 according to Figures 2A - 2F. The fitting 140 has a base body 144 to which a press sleeve 141 forming an outer contour 142 is connected by material bonding. The press sleeve 141 further includes a chamber 143 directed inwardly towards the pipe 6 to be received, in which a force - transmission ring 146 is provided. A support 150 is also materially connected to the base body 144 and has a sealing contour 148 directed outwardly towards the inserted pipe 6. Alternatively, the support 150 can also be integrally formed with the base body 144. Thus, the fitting 140 has a three - part structure consisting of the base body 144 and the press sleeve 141 and the support 150 connected thereto on each of the sides to be pressed.

[0286] The press sleeve 141 and the support 150 are spaced apart and define an annular space for inserting and receiving the pipe 6.

[0287] The support 150 is necessary to seal the flexible pipe 6, particularly a multi - layer composite pipe, against the fitting 140. The support 150 is preferably made of metal, enabling significantly improved chemical resistance and robustness compared to supports made of solid plastics such as polyphenylene sulfone (PPSU).

[0288] The force - transmission ring 146 has a toothed portion 146a for engagement with the inserted pipe 6. Thereby, guiding and retention of the pipe 6 are provided, enabling a fixed position of the pipe 4 relative to the fitting 140 before pressing. In the circumferential direction between the toothed portions 146a, recesses 146c are provided for improving the flexibility of the force - transmission ring 146. In addition, the force - transmission ring 146 is formed as a C - ring to facilitate insertion into the press sleeve 141.

[0289] The seal for the pipe 6 of the fitting 140 is ensured without using an additional soft seal via the force transmission by the sealing contour 148 and the force transmission ring 146. Due to the deformation of the press sleeve 141 during pressing, the flexible pipe 6 is pressed against the sealing contour 148, and a sealing effect is achieved.

[0290] In the example of the illustrated embodiment, sealing occurs at the outer end 150a of the support 150 facing the pipe 6, so that no dead space is created here after pressing.

[0291] The pipe 6 is also fixed against extraction by the retaining ribs 148a of the sealing contour 148.

[0292] Furthermore, the press sleeve 141 has a sleeve section 141b extending beyond the chamber 143, which forms part of the outer contour 142 of the press sleeve 141 formed by the press jaw 110. For this purpose, the press jaw 110 has a corresponding section 108b of the press contour 108.

[0293] A pressing process results from the comparison of FIGS. 8D and 8E. The two press jaw halves 110a, 110b are moved radially inward, and the press sleeve 121 is deformed radially inward by the contact of the press contours 108 of the two press jaw halves 110a, 110b. The sections 108b, 108c of the press contour 108 contact the sections 141b, 141c of the press sleeve 141 and deform the press sleeve 141 radially inward in these two sections. On the one hand, thereby the section 141b is formed onto the pipe 4, and the section 141b can be formed completely or only partially circumferentially. On the other hand, due to the deformation of the section 141c, the pipe 6 is formed onto the sealing contour 148 of the support 150.

[0294] The force transmission ring 146 also has an inwardly projecting web 146b that defines an inner cross-section equal to or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the pipe 6. Thus, the circumferentially distributed webs 146b form a guide and support for the pipe 6.

[0295] Furthermore, the press sleeve 141 and the force transmission ring 146 have corresponding observation windows 151, 152. Thus, when the pipe 6 is installed in the fitting 140, the insertion depth of the pipe 6 can be checked when the sealing of the pipe 6 occurs inside via the support 150.

[0296] In FIGS. 8D and 8E, different cross-sections of the fitting are selected to show the inwardly projecting web 146b, so the observation windows 151, 152 shown in FIG. 8B are not visible.

[0297] FIGS. 7A - 7D and FIGS. 8A - 8D also show a system for connecting the rigid pipe 4 and for connecting the flexible pipe 6. On the one hand, the system has a plurality of fittings 120 for connecting to the rigid pipe 4 according to FIGS. 7A - 7D, and on the other hand, a plurality of fittings 140 for connecting to the flexible pipe 6 according to FIGS. 8A - 8D. The base 124 of the fitting 120 and the base 144 of the fitting 140 for connecting to the rigid pipe 6 have the same design.

[0298] The press sleeve 121 or the press sleeve 141 is connected to each of the bases 124 or 144 respectively. In the case of the flexible pipe 6, the support 150 is also used. The base 124 or the base 144 also has only a small formed straight part and can thus be made of a material that is difficult to form, such as duplex steel or one of the ferritic steels described above. The same base 124 or base 144 can be used for both the fitting 120 for the rigid pipe 4 and the fitting 140 for the flexible pipe 6, thus enabling a modular design of the fittings of the described system.

[0299] The system for joining the rigid pipe 4 and for joining the flexible pipe 6 according to FIGS. 7A to 7D and FIGS. 8A to 8D is also suitable for the system 102 according to the present invention according to FIGS. 2A to 2F.

[0300] However, the press sleeve 121 or the press sleeve 141 has different attachments to the rigid pipe 4 and the flexible pipe 6, and is, for example, force-fitted into the base 124 or the base 144 by pressing in a factory. A further advantage of the two-part configuration consisting of the base 124 or the base 144 and the press sleeve 121 or the press sleeve 141 is that the fitting 120 or the fitting 140 is divided into the base 124 or the base 144 that contacts the medium and the press sleeve 121 or the press sleeve 141 that does not contact the medium. Thereby, for example, while using a low-cost material for the press sleeve 121 or the press sleeve 141, it becomes possible to manufacture the base 124 or the base 144, and, if necessary, the support 150 from a very high-quality corrosion-resistant material. In principle, the materials can be selected especially in consideration of the respective requirements, that is, the medium conveyed by the rigid pipe 4 and / or the flexible pipe 6.

[0301] From the description of the fittings 120, 140, the outer contours 122, 142 of the press sleeves 121, 141 are substantially the same, and the fittings 120, 140 can be swaged by the same swaging die 110 without requiring replacement of the swaging tool when the user switches between the swaging fitting 120 and the swaging fitting 140.

Claims

1. A system (2, 102) for connecting a rigid pipe (4) and for connecting a flexible pipe (6), said pipes (4, 6) having corresponding outer diameters, the system (2, 102) comprising: - a press jaw (10, 110) having a press contour (8, 108); - at least one first fitting (20, 120) for press-fitting onto the rigid pipe (4); - said at least one first fitting (20, 120) being formed as an external sealing fitting for externally sealing the rigid pipe (4) to be connected; - said at least one first fitting (20, 120) including a first press sleeve (21, 121) having a first outer contour (22, 122); - at least one second fitting (40, 140) for press-fitting onto the flexible pipe (6); - said at least one second fitting (40, 140) being formed as an internal sealing fitting for internally sealing the flexible pipe (6) to be connected; - said at least one second fitting (40, 140) including a second press sleeve (41, 141) having a second outer contour (42, 142); - the outer contour (22, 122) of said first press sleeve (21, 121) and the outer contour (42, 142) of said second press sleeve (41, 141) each being at least partially adapted to the press contour (8, 108) of the press jaw (10, 110) and being pressable by the press jaw (10, 110); A system (2, 102).

2. The system (2, 102) according to claim 1, characterized in that the outer contours (22, 122, 42, 142) of the first press sleeve (21, 121) and the second press sleeve (41, 141) at least partially coincide.

3. - the press sleeves (21, 121, 41, 141) forming a chamber (23, 123, 43, 143) directed inwards towards the pipe (4, 6) to be received, and - at least one clamping element, sealing element and / or force transmission element being received in the chamber (23, 123, 43, 143). The system (2, 102) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that...

4. The chambers (23, 123) of the first press sleeve (21, 121) and the chambers (43, 143) of the second press sleeve (41, 141) of the system (2, 102) according to claim 3 are characterized by accommodating different clamping elements, sealing elements and / or force transmission elements.

5. - The first press sleeve (121) has a first additional press section (121a), - The second press sleeve (141) has a second additional press section (141b) characterized in that - The first additional press section (121a) and the second additional press section (141b) have different outer contours (108a, 108b) and can each be partially shaped by the press jaw (110). The system (2, 102) according to claim 1.

6. - The ratio of the volume V(star) of the chamber (23, 123) of the press sleeve (21, 121) of the first fitting (20, 120) to the volume V(flex) of the chamber (43, 143) of the press sleeve (41, 141) of the second fitting (40, 143) is 【Number 1】 obtained by - The volume V(star) is 【Number 2】 obtained by where LK(star) is the length of the chamber (23, 123), DK(star) is the inner diameter of the chamber (23, 123), DR(star) is the outer diameter of the rigid pipe (4) to be accommodated, - The volume V(flex) is 【Number 3】 obtained by where LK(flex) is the length of the chamber (43, 143), DK(flex) is the inner diameter of the chamber (43, 143), DR(flex) is the diameter of the flexible pipe (6) to be accommodated, - The ratio is 【Number 4】 obtained by and - wherein δ takes a value from the range [0.50; 3.00] The system (2, 102) according to claim 3, characterized in that...

7. - The ratio of the difference between the inner diameter DK (star) of the chamber (23, 123) of the press sleeve (21, 121) of the first fitting (20, 120) and the outer diameter DR (star) of the rigid pipe (4) to be received, to twice the length LK (star) of the chamber (23, 123) is 【Number 5】 obtained by - ε (star) takes a value from the range of values [0.10; 0.50] The system (2, 102) according to claim 3, characterized in that.

8. - The ratio of the difference between the inner diameter DK (flex) of the chamber (43, 143) of the press sleeve (41, 141) of the second fitting (40, 140) and the outer diameter DR (flex) of the flexible pipe (6) to be received, to twice the length LK (flex) of the chamber (43, 143) is 【Number 6】 obtained by - ε (flex) takes a value from the range of values [0.10; 0.70] The system (2, 102) according to claim 3, characterized in that.

9. - ε (star) is 【Number 7】 obtained by DK (star) is the inner diameter of the chamber (23, 123) of the press sleeve (21, 121) of the first fitting (20, 120), DR (star) is the outer diameter of the rigid pipe (4) to be received, LK (star) is the length of the chamber (23, 123), - ε (flex) is 【Number 8】 obtained by DK (flex) is the inner diameter of the chamber (43, 143) of the press sleeve (41, 141) of the second fitting (40, 140), DR (flex) is the outer diameter of the flexible pipe (6) to be received, LK (flex) is the length of the chamber (23, 123), - The ratio α is 【Number 9】 obtained by - α takes a value from the range of values [0.50; 3.00] The system (2, 102) according to claim 3, characterized in that.

10. - The degree of compression β (star) when the first fitting (20, 120) is press-fitted into the rigid pipe (4) is 【Number 10】 obtained by DK (star) is the inner diameter of the chamber (23, 123) of the press sleeve (21, 121) of the first fitting (20, 120) before pressing, s(star) is the wall thickness of the press sleeve (21, 121) in the area of the first fitting (20, 120) to be pressed before pressing, DR(star) is the outer diameter of the rigid pipe (4) to be received before pressing, DKP(star) is the inner diameter of the press contour (8, 108) of the press jaw (10, 110) in the area of the first fitting (20, 120) to be pressed after pressing, and - β(star) takes a value of β(star) < 0.15 The system (2, 102) according to claim 3, characterized in that.

11. - The degree of compression β(flex) when the second fitting (40, 140) is press-fitted into the flexible pipe (6) is 【Number 11】 obtained by DK(flex) is the inner diameter of the chamber (43, 143) of the press sleeve (41, 141) of the second fitting (40, 140) before pressing, s(flex) is the wall thickness of the press sleeve (41, 141) in the area of the second fitting (40, 140) to be pressed before pressing, DR(flex) is the outer diameter of the flexible pipe (6) to be received before pressing, DKP(flex) is the inner diameter of the press contour (8, 108) of the press jaw (10, 110) in the area of the second fitting (40, 140) to be pressed after pressing, and - β(flex) takes a value of β(flex) < 0.15 The system (2, 102) according to claim 3, characterized in that.

12. - The degree of compression β(star) when the first fitting (20, 120) is press-fitted into the rigid pipe (4) is 【Number 12】 obtained by DK(star) is the inner diameter of the chamber (23) of the press sleeve (21, 121) of the first fitting (20, 120) before pressing, s(star) is the wall thickness of the press sleeve (21, 121) in the area of the first fitting (20, 120) to be pressed before pressing, DR(star) is the outer diameter of the rigid pipe (4) to be received before pressing, DKP(star) is the inner diameter of the press jaw (10, 110) in the area of the first fitting (20, 120) to be pressed after pressing, - The degree of compression β (flex) when the second fitting (40, 140) is press-fitted into the flexible pipe (6) is obtained by 【Number 13】 where DK (flex) is the inner diameter of the chamber (43, 143) of the press sleeve (41, 141) of the second fitting (40, 140) before pressing, s (flex) is the wall thickness of the press sleeve (41, 141) of the area of the second fitting (40, 140) to be pressed before pressing, DR (flex) is the outer diameter of the flexible pipe (6) to be received before pressing, DPK (flex) is the inner diameter of the press contour (8, 108) of the press jaw (10, 110) of the area of the second fitting (40, 140) to be pressed after pressing, - The ratio τ is obtained by 【Number 14】 where - τ takes a value from the range of values [0.50; 1.50] A system (2, 102) according to claim 3, characterized in that.

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