Welded clamp to repair an active pipe leakage

The welded clamp system addresses the inefficiencies in repairing leaks in steel pipelines by allowing for leak repairs without shutting down the pipeline, achieving quick, cost-effective, and stable sealing.

WO2025037155A1PCT designated stage expired Publication Date: 2025-02-20SHARIFIAN MOHAMMADMAHDI
View PDF 2 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/IB2024/054593
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-08-13
Filing Date
2024-05-11
Publication Date
2025-02-20

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing methods for repairing leaks in steel pipelines, especially near welds and flanges, are inefficient and often require complete shutdown of the pipeline, which is costly and disruptive.

Method used

A welded clamp system that includes a saddle, water outlet part, rubber washer, flange, and external and internal holders, allowing for leak repair without interrupting the water flow by directing the water flow towards a drainage outlet and securing it with washers and caps.

Benefits of technology

Enables quick and cost-effective repair of leaks in steel pipelines without shutting down the pipeline, reducing material costs and minimizing downtime, while ensuring a stable and leak-proof seal.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure IB2024054593_20022025_PF_FP_ABST
    Figure IB2024054593_20022025_PF_FP_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

This invention involves designing and manufacturing a part intended as a seal for steel pipelines without the need for cutting off branches. The components of this part include an active pipe leakage-welding clamp, a saddle, a water outlet part, a rubber washer, a flange, as well as external and internal holders. This part finds utility in pipelines and branches within refineries, power plants, urban water and sewage networks, and gas supply lines, all without interrupting the flow.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Welded clamp to repair an active pipe leakage

[0001] This invention involves designing and manufacturing a part intended as a seal for steel pipelines without the need for cutting off branches. The components of this part include an active pipe leakage-welding clamp, a saddle, a water outlet part, a rubber washer, a flange, as well as external and internal holders. This part finds utility in pipelines and branches within refineries, power plants, urban water and sewage networks, and gas supply lines, all without interrupting the flow.

[0002] B23K 33 / 00 – F16L 13 / 02

[0003] Method for protecting a welded joint between pipes having an interior coating

[0004] WO2015023211A1

[0005] In the proposed method, a protective sleeve is plastically deformed to dimensions enabling the shape of the sleeve to correspond to the shape of the interior surface of the pipes to be joined in the joint region. The deformed sleeve is installed inside the pipes to be joined such that an annular cavity is formed between the sleeve and the region of the welded joint together with the adjacent portions of the pipes protected by a coating. The ends of the pipes are joined by welding and the annular cavity is hermetically sealed at the ends of the sleeve. Once sealed, the cavity is evacuated and, via working apertures in one or both of the pipes to be joined, the annular cavity is filled with a liquid sealing material, which is then polymerized. During installation of the protective sleeve, a steel cushioning ring can additionally be positioned between the sleeve and the welded joint, wherein the outside surface of said cushioning ring contacts with the surface of the welded joint and the inside surface of the cushioning ring is provided with projections, which contact with the outside surface of the sleeve. As the joint is welded, the ends of the pipes are welded to the steel cushioning ring. The technical result is more reliable and durable corrosion protection of a welded pipe joint.

[0006] WELD JOINT

[0007] United States Patent 3709529

[0008] A weld joint for a fuel injection nozzle assembly and the like characterized in that axially interfitting tubular parts define there between an annular groove or gap of which one side has an axial step radially spaced outwardly from the bottom of the groove and radially spaced inwardly from the radially outer edge of the side of the groove. A metallic filler ring axially spans said groove and is coaxially located by said step to radially outwardly space its inside and outside surfaces respectively from the bottom of said groove and from the radially outer edges of the sides of said groove. The outside surface of the filler ring extends radially outward beyond the outer portions of the sides of the groove. The protruding portion of the weld ring permits fusion welding of the parts without addition of weld filler material. After the parts are welded together, the weld ring is integrally bonded to the adjacent portions of the sides of the groove to form a strong leak-proof joint between said nozzle parts. Another characterizing feature of the weld joint herein is that a flow divider valve or the like contained within the nozzle assembly can be repeatedly serviced or replaced by simply cutting through the filler ring with the point or tip of the tool entering the space between the bottom of the groove and the inside surface of the filler ring thus to permit separation of the nozzle parts where they are axially interfitted without burn up of the tip of the tool and to permit subsequent reassembly and welding of said parts with the filler ring being the only new part required.

[0009] Expansion joint device

[0010] United States Patent 6631928

[0011] Both ends of a bellows-type outer cylinder

[0031] capable of axial expansion and contraction are connected in a leak-proof manner to a pair of connection passage ends

[0020] , thereby constituting an expansion passage

[0030] . A cylindrical resin film

[0033] having no permeability to fluid is arranged in an interior of the bellows-type outer cylinder

[0031] , and the axial ends thereof are connected in a leak-proof manner to said connecting passage end regions. The cylindrical region

[0034] positioned in the intermediate region of the cylindrical resin film

[0033] covers the inner surface of said bellows-type outer cylinder

[0031] in a leak-proof manner. According to such structure, the fluid traveling through said bellows-type outer cylinder

[0031] and the impurities contained in the fluid are prevented from residing in the grooves formed to the inner circumferential surface of the bellows-type outer cylinder

[0031] , and the cleanness and quality maintaining property of the expansion joint device is secured. In another example, further added to or instead of said bellows-type outer cylinder

[0031] , an inner sleeve and an outer sleeve may be slidably superposed to form an expansion outer cylinder.

[0012] Device for providing leak-proof protection to a splice in a high voltage cable

[0013] United States Patent 6172304

[0014] The invention relates to a leak-proof protection device for a high voltage cable splice. The device comprises two elements that are prefabricated in a factory. The element comprises a copper tube in the form of a first cylindrical segment, which matches the diameter of a cable that is to be spliced, a second cylindrical segment of a diameter that matches a splice body, and an interconnecting conical segment. A preformed insulating covering covers the metal tube in part and is secured thereto. The second element also has a copper tube and a preformed insulating element of synthetic material. The two elements are assembled together in leak-proof by welding together the ends of the two tubes and by coupling their coverings.

[0015] The implementation of the leak-resistant piece for welded joints effectively resolves the limitations and issues associated with water leakage. The installation process involves first selecting the appropriate part matching the pipe diameter. Subsequently, the upper and lower parts of the holder are fixed around the pipe and the leaky section using welding. Next, we weld the selected part onto the designated sections to ensure that water flow is directed solely towards the drainage outlet. Following this, we securely fasten the washer and cap onto the washout using bolts and nuts to achieve complete sealing. Additionally, we weld the external retaining parts to restrain the part and to prevent pressure on the part.

[0016] The facilities industry stands as a cornerstone of advanced sectors, where the introduction of novel methods and technologies holds immense potential in revolutionizing maintenance and repair operations within these facilities.

[0017] Industries primarily reliant on pipelines for fluid transportation predominantly opt for steel pipes. This preference is primarily attributed to the cost-effectiveness of steel pipes and the simplicity of welding and connecting steel pipe components. However, steel pipes are more susceptible to corrosion compared to other pipes. These pipelines are typically sealed using clamps. Each component of the clamp envelops half of the pipe wall and is secured in place using bolts and nuts. Prior to fastening the two halves of the seal together, rubber and metal seals are inserted between the seal clamp and the pipe to ensure precise sealing.

[0018] Clamps are crafted from materials resistant to rapid corrosion. To extend their lifespan, waxes and paints are applied to their surface, preventing easy penetration of oxygen and moisture into the structure of the seal. In this scenario, the leak on the pipeline can be effectively sealed by securing the seal clamp around the affected area.

[0019] Pipeline seal clamps find application in repairing various types of pipelines, whether on the ground or even underwater. Essentially, it acts as a mechanical connection that is installed onto the pipeline. Pipelines across diverse sectors such as refineries, power plants, municipal water and sewage networks, gas distribution lines, and more, often encounter damage ranging from minor to severe. Among these damages, local cracking and piercing of the pipes are common occurrences.

[0020] Pipelines serve critical roles across various sectors including refinery industries, power plants, particularly combined cycle power plants, petrochemical units and industries, and urban infrastructure networks such as water and gas distribution systems. These pipelines are utilized for the conveyance of both gaseous and liquid fluids. When pipeline damage is minor and leakage is not extensive, leak-resistance joints are employed to seal the leaks effectively. If the leakage is not widespread, it may not be economically justified to locally replace the pipe. In such cases, it is more prudent to repair the pipeline using the most cost-effective method available. In such scenarios, leak-resistance joints are utilized for repairing the pipeline. One of these connections is known as the split sleeve. Fiberglass coating combined with epoxy resin is a prevalent technology utilized for repairing water pipe leaks.

[0021] Nevertheless, this technology suffers from poor adhesion and typically serves as a temporary repair solution, offering a useful lifespan of less than six months. Moreover, when employing pipe-sealing tape, it becomes notably challenging to effectively seal leaks in sections of the pipe that are irregular or not perfectly straight. Addressing leaks near welds and flanges using this technology can prove exceedingly difficult, and in some cases, impracticable. A clamp bracket is indeed categorized as a type of clip and is widely regarded as an excellent choice for repairing leaks in sewage and water pipes. Certainly, this type of clip is specifically designed for use on the outer surface of small diameter pipes.

[0022] Typically, pipelines operate under high pressure and are occasionally subjected to elevated temperatures. Over time, the pipe wall undergoes changes due to interactions with the fluid being transported and the surrounding environment. The corrosive external environment and the high velocity of fluids within the pipe contribute to erosion and corrosion of steel pipes. In refineries, the majority of fluids flowing within the pipes, often at high temperatures, contribute to internal corrosion.

[0023] Metal water pipes are also vulnerable to developing punctures and experiencing leaks. Metal pipes can also suffer from issues such as corrosion, rusting, and the development of holes or cracks over time. This product facilitates the repair of non-flammable fluid transmission lines, such as water or sewage systems operated by steel pipes. Additionally, recognizing the significance of uninterrupted service, this product enables leak repairs through welding without the need for a complete deactivate or drainage of the pipeline.

[0024] In the realm of utilizing steel pipelines for transporting water, sewage, or any non-flammable fluid, regardless of size, thickness, or welding operation, repairing steel pipelines or tanks containing non-flammable fluids typically necessitates complete evacuation and cessation of operations. However, employing this product alleviates such constraints, thereby mitigating the risk of leakage.Solution of problem

[0025] Water leakage presents a significant challenge, even for the most resilient tanks, as they are susceptible to damage over time. Such leakage may occur due to breakage or faults in the coupling connecting two steel pipes. Today, prioritizing quality while managing costs stands as a pivotal factor for success, with global trends over recent decades elevating quality to a necessity. In today's fiercely competitive environment, industrial management is primarily focused on minimizing the actual cost of components. Implementing waste reduction measures and producing raw materials within the industrial unit are effective solutions for reducing raw material costs.

[0026] Steel pipes are elongated hollow structures with a circular cross-section, commonly utilized in construction applications. The presence of diverse methods for producing steel pipes has led to a variety of sections, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, tailored to specific application ranges. Steel pipes, also referred to as steel tubes, offer enhanced strength to foundations and are extensively employed in construction endeavors. Steel products can be recycled repeatedly without any loss in quality.

[0027] A pipe clamp, commonly referred to as a holder clip, is a tool designed to securely hold pipes in position, enabling them to be aligned for welding and subsequently joined together. In the proposed plan, water leakage can be repaired without the need for water interruption. This is crucial as water interruption can lead to numerous problems, some of which may be irreparable.

[0028] The installation process is as follows: Firstly, the appropriate part is selected based on the diameter of the steel pipe, the extent of the damage, or the size of the coupling to be repaired. Next, after selecting the part of the water-filled pipe and inspecting the area surrounding the installation site, and if excavation is necessary, the site is prepared for repair. In addition, according to the position of the pipe and the condition of the soil, saddles are installed if needed to perform the operation. (Following physical measurements of the leak location and calculation of dimensions, the selected part is installed at the designated location.)

[0029] Once the appropriate piece with the matching diameter of the pipe is selected, the installation process begins by securing the upper part of the holder (Map No. 11-Figure No. 10-3) and the lower part of the holder (Map No. 11-Figure No. 11-3) around the pipe and the leaking section using welding techniques. Next, we proceed to weld the parts (Map No. 9), (No. 1-3), and (2-3) onto the parts (No. 3-10) and (No. 3-11) in a manner that ensures water flow is directed solely towards the drainage outlet. Subsequently, we secure the washer (No. 3-4) and the cap (No. 3-3) onto the washout using screws and nuts to achieve complete sealing. Additionally, in order to restrain the part and prevent pressure on the part, external retaining parts (No. 3-9) are welded. In addition to the aforementioned procedures, replacing the coupling is not a straightforward task, and employing the coupling mode regularly is necessary to prevent leakage in other modes. Finally, after ensuring complete welding and sealing, external sheaths are utilized to enhance structural integrity.

[0030] The distinguishing feature of the connecting part used compared to parts available in the market is its mechanical design, which incorporates washers between these parts. Over time, these washers deteriorate, leading to leaks and breakages. In contrast, the part designed by me boasts high resistance, once installed; it integrates into the pipe without necessitating any water interruption.Advantage effects of invention

[0031] Speed of execution

[0032] Repair without the need to cut off the water flow and complete repair

[0033] Converting the connecting part of the leak to a part of the existing circuit

[0034] Cost reduction by preventing the use of additional materials for renovation

[0035] Easy malleability

[0036] Stability and no deformation

[0037] The cost-effectiveness of the piece in terms of economy

[0038] Ratability of the designed piece

[0039] : An overview of the part

[0040] : An overview of the saddle part

[0041] : A components of active pipe leakage-welding clamp

[0042] : A components of active pipe leakage-welding clamp

[0043] : A components of active pipe leakage-welding clamp

[0044] : 1. An active pipe 2. Base t 3. An active pipe leakage-welding clamp

[0045] : 4. Saddle part

[0046] : 1. upper body part of the active pipe leakage welding clamp 2. Lower body part of the active pipe leakage-welding clamp 3. The water outlet part of the active pipe leakage-welding clamp

[0047] : 2. an active pipe leakage-welding clamp 3. End of head cover 4. Rubber linings 5. A flange 6. The outer part 7. Screw 8. Pipe connection

[0048] : 9. External holder 10. Coverage 11. Internal holderExamples

[0049] Once the suitable part matching the pipe diameter at the leak site is chosen, we begin by welding the upper and lower sections, comprising both internal and external retaining parts, around the pipe and the leaking area. Subsequently, we align the desired part onto the installed parts entirely and finalize the welding to ensure water flow is directed solely towards the drainage outlet. Following this, we securely fasten the washer and cap onto the washout using bolts and nuts to attain complete sealing, and weld the pieces to restrain the part and to prevent pressure on the part.

[0050] The proposed plan is applicable across various industrial sectors, including refineries, power plants, municipal water and sewage networks, gas distribution lines, etc., especially when encountering damage ranging from minor to severe.

Claims

A patent involves designing and manufacturing a part intended as a seal for steel pipelines without the need for cutting off branches. This part is installed and secured through welding, with its dimensions tailored based on the diameter of the steel pipe and the extent of breakage or the size of the desired coupling. The components of this part include an active pipe leakage-welding clamp, a saddle, a water outlet part, a rubber washer, a flange, as well as external and internal holders.Building upon claim number 1, this part finds utility in pipelines and branches within refineries, power plants, urban water and sewage networks, and gas supply lines, all without interrupting the flow. In addition, in the active state, the fluid must be non-flammable. If the fluid is non-flammable, this part can be used in the active state of the pipe, but if it is flammable, the pipe must be deactivated.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • A pipe leak area repair tool and method

    KR101192096B1

  • Leakage preventing device for repair work on water supply pipe without suspension of water supply

    KR200491291Y1