Press fitting

Abstract

Various press fittings are disclosed including a connector body and a press sleeve coupled thereto forming a passageway to receive a conduit. The connector body has an outer surface including a connection segment extending longitudinally from a first end including a plurality of barbs and a retainer ridge spaced axially between two barbs of the plurality of barbs, and a retainer segment extending longitudinally from a second end including first and second circumferential walls and a channel formed therebetween. The press sleeve having a proximal end including a lip. The press sleeve adapted to be received over the connection segment of the connector body such that the lip of the proximal end of the press sleeve is received into the channel of the connector body forming a snap fit connection therewith. The press sleeve is configured to be crimped by a tool to attach the press fitting to the conduit.

Description

PRESS FITTINGPriority Claim

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 622,728, filed January 19, 2024, the disclosure and figures of which are incorporated by reference herein as if set forth in its entirety.Incorporation by Reference

[0002] The disclosure and figures of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 622,728, filed January 19, 2024; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 378,637, filed October 6, 2022; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 519,609, filed August 15, 2023, are incorporated by reference herein as if set forth in their entireties.Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to pipe connections. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to press fittings used to connect sections of pipe.Summary

[0004] The present application relates to press or crimp fittings for joining conduits, such as tubes or pipes for fluids. The press fitting includes a connector body that has a first end, an opposite, second end and a passage or bore that extends through the first and second ends along a longitudinal length thereof, placing the first and second ends in fluid communication. The passage of the connector body includes a tapered lead-in to allow for ease of fluid flow therethrough.

[0005] The connector body may include a single piece or unitary body made of a plastic or other polymeric suitable materials, such as polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), although alternatives are possible. In other examples, the connector body may be made from polysulfone (PSU) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) or other similar polymeric material. In other examples, the connector body may be made of a forged or cast metallic material, such as, brass, stainless steel, bronze, copper alloys, steel alloys, etc., without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0006] The connector body includes a connection segment at a first end of the connector body and a retainer segment at a second end of the connector body. The connection segment may be a cylindrical portion that extends in a generally longitudinal direction. The connection segment is sized and adapted for reception within passages of a conduit (e.g., pipes, tubes) to form an inner diameter ID seal with the conduit.

[0007] The connection segment defines inner surfaces (e.g., interior surfaces) and outer surfaces (e.g., exterior surfaces). The outer surfaces of the connection segment may have surface portions dimensioned to engage inner walls of the conduit to facilitate gripping or other engagement therewith. The surface portions may include barbed portions on the outer surface of the connection segments to assist in coupling the connector body to the conduit. The barbed portions may include a plurality of ribs or barbs. The configuration of the barbed portions may be dictated by ASTM F3347 or F3348 or other suitable codes or standards.

[0008] The connector body may further include a circumferential rib or retainer ridge that extends outwardly from the connector body, spaced axially between two barbs of the plurality of barbs. For example, the plurality of barbs can include first and second sets of barbs positioned on the connection segment. The retainer ridge can be located in a middle or center part of the connector body between the first and second sets of barbs of the connection segment. The retainer ridge is integrally formed as one piece or unitary with the connector body.

[0009] The connector body may also include circumferential walls or portions (e.g., protrusions) that extend outwardly from the outer surface thereof, defining the retainer segment. At least one of the circumferential walls may include an inclined surface. The circumferential walls may be integrally formed as one piece or unitary with the connector body. The circumferential walls include a channel therebetween configured to receive and retain a press sleeve.

[0010] The press fitting further includes one or more press sleeves (i.e., press portions or elements) that are attached to the connector body. A press sleeve is received over the connection segment and received into the channel of the retainer segment. The press sleeve is pre-installed onto the connector body for ease of installation. The press sleeve may be formed from a metallic material, such as, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, or other suitable metallic material. The press sleeve and the connector body together define a passageway for receiving the conduit. For example, an inner surface of the press sleeve and an extent of the outer surfaceof the connector body defines the passageway. The press sleeve is deformable and configured to be engaged deformed by a press or crimp tool to connect conduit to the press fitting.

[0011] These and other features and advantages will be apparent from a reading of the following detailed description and a review of the associated drawings. A variety of additional aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. These aspects can relate to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad concepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a pail of the description, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

[0013] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of an example press fitting including a connector body and a press sleeve in accordance with principles of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. IB illustrates a perspective view of an example press fitting including the connector body and an example press sleeve with a rolled edge in accordance with principles of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of an example press fitting including the connector body and an example press sleeve comprising an intermediate part in accordance with principles of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the connector body of the press fitting of FIG. 1A.

[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates cross-sectional view of the press fitting of FIG. 1A.

[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates a side view of the connector body of the press fitting of FIG. 1A.

[0019] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a connector body, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, which can be used with the press sleeve of the press fitting of FIG. 1 A.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a side view of the connector body of FIG. 5.

[0021] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of another embodiment of a connector body, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, which can be used with the press sleeve of the press fitting of FIG. 1 A.

[0022] FIG. 8 is a side view of the connector body of FIG. 7.Detailed Description

[0023] The present application is directed to press or crimp fittings for joining conduits (e.g., PEX tubings, such as PEX a, PEX b, PEX c, PERT, and the like). These fittings are configured to provide a seal with end portions of conduits to create a substantially watertight connection. These press fittings may be used with fluid conduits of varying diameters, including fluid conduits having a diameter less than 0.25 inches to fluid conduits having a diameter of greater than 2 inches or more. The press fittings are manufactured to ASTM F3347 or F3348 standard.

[0024] An illustrative example press fitting 400 in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, is shown in FIGS. 1A and 2-4. The press fitting 400 includes a connector body 402 and a press sleeve 404. The press fitting 400 may be made in a variety of configurations and sizes that are designed to handle various fluid applications. For example, the press fitting 400 may include a straight-line connector body or coupler, an elbow connector body or coupler, a t-shaped connector body or coupler, a blind-end connector body that blocks flow, a connector body configured to receive different diameter fluid conduits, an angle connector body, a multi-line (or 4-way) connector body, a wye (Y) connector body, a tee- wye connector body, another type of connector body or combinations of connector bodies.

[0025] The connector body 402 of the press fitting 400 includes a single piece / unitary body made of a plastic or other polymeric material suitable for the intended application, such as polyphenylsulfone (PPSU), although alternatives are possible. In other examples, the connector body 402 may be made from polysulfone (PSU) or polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) or other similar polymeric material. In certain examples, the connector body 402 may be made of a forged or cast metallic material, such as, brass, stainless steel, bronze, copper alloys, steel alloys, etc., without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0026] The connector body 402 has a first end 408, an opposite, second end 410 and a passage 412 (c.g., bore) that extends through the first and second ends 408, 410 along a longitudinal axis L thereof, placing the first and second ends 408, 410 in fluid communication.

[0027] The connector body 402 may include a connection segment 414 at the first end 408 of the connector body 402 and a retainer segment 418 at the second end 410 as shown in FIGS. 1A and 2-4. In some embodiments, the connector body 402 can include two or more connection segments. The connection segment 414 may be cylindrical and extend along the longitudinal axis L. The connection segment 414 is sized and configured for reception within a passage of a respective conduit (e.g., pipes, tubes) to form an inner diameter ID seal with the conduit. The press sleeve 404 is configured to be received over the connection segment 414. The sleeve 404 is pre-installed onto the connector body 402 for ease of installation. The press sleeve 404 is deformable and configured to be engaged and thereby deformed by a press or crimp tool to connect conduits to the press fitting 400.

[0028] The connection segment 414 defines inner surfaces (e.g., interior surfaces) 428 and outer surfaces 430 (e.g., exterior surfaces). In certain examples, the inner surfaces 428 of the connection segment 414 of the connector body 402 include a tapered lead-in 432 at the first end 408 of the passage 412 to allow for ease of fluid flow therethrough or in some applications for ease of insertion of a liner (not shown).

[0029] In certain examples, the connection segment 414 can include nipple portions (not shown) configured to be received within the respective conduit. The outer surfaces 430 of the connection segment 414 may have one or more surface portions 434 dimensioned to engage inner walls of the conduit to facilitate gripping or other engagement therewith. The surface portions 434 may include barbed portions. In certain examples, the barbed portions have a plurality of ribs or barbs 438 on the outer surface 430 of the connector body 402 to assist in coupling the connector body 402 to the respective conduit. The press sleeve 404 is configured to deform upon pressing or crimping to engage an outer surface of a conduit. Upon crimping, the plurality of ribs 438 of the respective connector body 402 may dig into or otherwise engage an inner surface of the conduit to form an inner diameter (ID) seal with the conduit. The configuration of the barbed portions may be dictated by ASTM F3347 or F3348 or other suitable codes or standards. In the illustrative embodiment, the connection segment 414 includes two surface portions 434 on the outer surfaces 430 that respectively define an annular recessed region440 therebetween. As shown, the two surface portions 434 can include two sets 436a, 436b of barbs 438, respectively.

[0030] The connector body 402 may also include circumferential walls or portions 452, 453 (e.g., protrusions, flanges) radially projecting from the outer surface 430 thereof, defining the retainer segment 418. One of the circumferential walls 452 (e.g., first circumferential wall) forms an inclined surface 454 (e.g., sloped surface). The circumferential wall 452 also includes an engagement surface 456 opposite the inclined surface 454. The inclined surface 454 of the circumferential wall 452 inclines in a direction from the engagement surface 456. The other of the circumferential wall 453 (e.g., second circumferential wall) is spaced axially apart from circumferential wall 452 to define a channel 460 axially therebetween. In the illustrative embodiment, the second circumferential wall 453 is positioned at the second end 410 of the connector body 402 and the first circumferential wall 452 is spaced axially from the second circumferential wall 453 to form the channel 460 therebetween. The first circumferential wall 452 of the retainer segment 418 is adjacent to the connection segment 414, with the inclined surface 454 of the first circumferential wall 452 facing in a direction of the connection segment 414. The circumferential walls 452, 453 may be integrally formed as one piece or unitary with the connector body 402.

[0031] Shown in FIG. 1A is a non-limiting example of a press sleeve 404 coupled to the connector body 402. The press sleeve 404 may be formed from a metallic material, such as, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, or other suitable metallic material. The press sleeve 404 includes a distal end 462 and an opposite proximal end 464. The distal end 462 of the press sleeve 404 includes a flange 466 and the proximal end 464 of the press sleeve 404 includes a lip 468. The flange 466 at the distal end 462 of the press sleeve 404 includes a chamfered edge 470 (e.g., a tapered lead-in). The lip 468 at the proximal end 464 of the press sleeve 404 includes a curved edge 472. When the press sleeve 404 is coupled together with the connector body, the lip 468 of the press sleeve 404 extends into the channel 460 between the circumferential walls 452, 453 to block separation of the connector body 402 and the press sleeve 404. The first press sleeve 404 also defines holes 474 for viewing therethrough.

[0032] For example, the press sleeve 404 is shown connected to the connector body 402 in FIGS. 1A and 3. The press sleeve 404 and the connector body 402 together define a passageway 476 for receiving the conduit. When the conduits are fully inserted into thepassageway 476, an end face of the conduit may abut the circumferential wall 452. The holes 474 of the press sleeve 404 allow an installer to visually sec where the conduit is positioned during insertion, namely, whether the conduit has been inserted into the passageway 476 a sufficient amount.

[0033] The press sleeve 404 may further include an indicator rib 498 or portions to help facilitate location of a pressing tool used to press or crimp pressing sleeves. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, a crimp tool having two axially spaced clamp jaws 401, 403 may be placed around the press sleeve 404. The indicator rib 498 may be integrally formed with a body of the press sleeve 404. The indicator rib 498 and the flange 466 provide a crimp region 444 therebetween which is configured to receive a crimp tool. Reference is hereby made to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 378,637, filed on October 6, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 519,609, filed August 15, 2023, each of which is hereby incorporated herein in their entireties for the purpose of describing various press fittings which include features that can be used to locate a press tool.

[0034] During assembly of the press fitting 400, the press sleeve 404 is moved along the longitudinal axis L relative to the connector body 402. The curved edge 472 of the lip 468 of the press sleeve 404 is configured to engage the inclined surface 454 of the circumferential wall 452. The inclined surface 454 of the circumferential wall 452 assists in guiding the press sleeve 404 over the circumferential wall 452 during assembly. The lip 468 of the press sleeve 404 may be guided over the inclined surface 454 of the circumferential wall 452 into the channel 460 of the connector body 402 to form a snap fit connection with the connector body 402. The curved edge 472 of the lip 468 helps to block the press sleeve 404 from being backed out or removed from the channel 460. Although the press fitting 400 is described herein with the example press sleeve 404 coupled to the connector body 402, other combinations of configurations for a press sleeve 404 (i.e., press sleeve 1404, 2404) can be relied on to couple with the connector body 402 or variations thereof (i.e., connector body 502, 602) to form various press fittings according to this disclosure.

[0035] Another embodiment of a press sleeve 1404 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. IB as press fitting 1400. The press sleeve 1404 is substantially similar to press sleeve 404. Accordingly, the disclosure related to press sleeve 404 is hereby incorporated herein for press sleeve 1404. The connector body 1402 is substantiallysimilar to connector body 402. Similar reference numbers in the 1400 series are used in FIG. IB to reference similar features between press sleeve 404 and press sleeve 1404, and connector body 402 and connector body 1402.

[0036] The press sleeve 1404 is substantially similar to press sleeve 404 except that press sleeve 1404 is deformed at the proximal end 1464 to such that the rolled edge or lip 1468 is located between the opposing circumferential walls or flanges 1452, 1453 of the connector body 1402, such that a crimp tool is not needed to secure the press sleeve 1404. As such, press sleeve 1404 does not include the crimp tool indicator rib 498 and the flange 466 of press sleeve 404.

[0037] In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. IB, an example press fitting 1400 includes press sleeve 1404 is shown a rolled edge or lip 1468 at the proximal end 1464 coupled with the connector body 1402. The lip 1468 of the press sleeve 1404 extends into the channel 1460 between the circumferential walls 1452, 1453 to block separation of the connector body 1402 and the press sleeve 1404. In this example, the press sleeve 1404 can be made of copper or other suitable material.

[0038] The press sleeve 1404 can include a first segment 1490 that extends from the proximal end 1464 at an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis L and a second segment 1492 that extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis L. The outer diameter of the second segment 1492 being substantially the same along the entire segment to the distal end 1462. The outer diameter of the press sleeve 1404 decreasing from the second segment 1492 to the proximal end 1464. When the press sleeve 1404 is coupled together with the connector body, the proximal end 1464 of the press sleeve 1404 is rolled or deformed such that a lip 1468 extends into the channel 1460 between the circumferential walls 1452, 1453 to block separation of the connector body 1402 and the press sleeve 1404. The press sleeve 1404 and the connector body 402 together define a passageway 1476 for receiving the conduit. When the conduits are fully inserted into the passageway 1476, an end face of the conduit may abut the circumferential wall 1452 of the connector body 1402. The holes 1474 of the press sleeve 1404 allow an installer to visually see where the conduit is positioned during insertion, namely, whether the conduit has been inserted into the passageway 1476 a sufficient amount.

[0039] The first segment 1490 extends, in an angled direction, from one side of the circumferential wall 1453 to another side of the circumferential wall 1452. In this regard, at least part of the first segment 1490 is located below an upper edge of the circumferential wall 1452and adjacent to the circumferential wall 1453. This restrains the first segment 1490 between at least one face of the circumferential wall 1452 and the circumferential wall 1453. In other words, movement of the press sleeve 1404 is restrained between the circumferential walls 1452, 1453 by being configured to engage therewith. With this in mind, the press sleeve 1404 is also configured to rotate or spin about the connector body 1402 whilst it is retained between the circumferential walls 1452, 1453. The second segment 1492 extends to a distal end 1462 to be substantially flush or even with the first end 1408 of the connector body 1402.

[0040] Another embodiment of a press sleeve 2404 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 1C as press fitting 2400. The press sleeve 2404 is substantially similar to press sleeve 2404. Accordingly, the disclosure related to press sleeve 404 is hereby incorporated herein for press sleeve 2404. The connector body 2402 is substantially similar to connector body 402. Similar reference numbers in the 2400 series are used in FIG. 1C to reference similar features between press sleeve 404 and press sleeve 2404, and connector body 402 and connector body 2402.

[0041] The press sleeve 2404 is substantially similar to press sleeve 404 except that press sleeve 2404 formed in two parts including a main sleeve 2704 and a connecting portion 2706. The main sleeve 2704 of press sleeve 2404 has a substantially uniform diameter and wall thickness from a distal end 2462 to an opposite proximal end 2464. The connecting portion 2704 includes a distal end 2762 having a recess 2708 defined therein to secure the main sleeve 2704 to the connecting portion 2704. For example, the recess 2708 can be an annular groove or seat configured to receive the main sleeve 2704. The main sleeve 2704 can be snap or press or otherwise friction fitted to the connecting portion 2706 via the recess 2708. The main sleeve 2704 and a connecting portion 2706 of press sleeve 2404 can be formed of the same or different materials. For example, the main sleeve 2704 can be a metallic material, such as stainless steel, and the connecting portion 2706 can be a plastic or polymeric material.

[0042] Similar to press sleeve 404, the connecting portion 2706 of the press sleeve 2404 has a proximal end 2764 configured to be received into the channel 2460 of the connector body 2402 between the circumferential walls 2452, 2453. For example, the connecting portion 2706 can be snap fit to the connector body 2402 (e.g., one or more flanges, projections on the connecting portion can be received and secured between the opposing recesses). The press sleeve 2404 configured to be spaced from the connector body 2402 to define a passageway 2476for receiving the conduit. The connecting portion 2706 further can include recesses or holes 2474 therethrough for viewing an inserted pipe. Similar to press sleeve 404, the connecting portion 2706 in this embodiment also includes an indicator rib 2498 at a distal end 2762 designed as a location feature for a crimp tool.

[0043] As shown in FIGS. 2-4, the connector body 402 includes two sets 436a, 436b of ribs or barbs 438 and further includes one or more retainer ridge(s) 480, 481 arranged circumferentially between the two sets of ribs 438. The retainer ridge(s) 480, 481 is configured to bear against inner surfaces of a conduit received in the passageway 476 between the press sleeve 404 and the connector body 402 to frictionally hold the conduit in place temporarily until the press sleeve 404 is crimped to form a permanent coupling with a conduit. Each set of ribs 438 illustratively includes three ribs 438, however, one, two, or more than three ribs may be included in each set in other embodiments. The retainer ridge(s) 480, 481 is spaced equally between each set of retainer ribs 438 within a recessed region 440 of the connector body 402 such that the retainer ridge(s) 480, 481 is the only protrusion(s) extending away from the longitudinal axis L between the two sets of ribs 438.

[0044] The retainer ridge(s) 480, 481 has an outermost radius (rr) 482 from the longitudinal axis L that is slightly greater than an outermost radius (n,) 484 of each of the ribs 438 to engage a conduit while at least some of the ribs 438 remain spaced apart from the conduit until the press sleeve 404 is crimped to form a permanent coupling. For example, the effective outermost diameter (Dr) of the retainer ridge(s) 480, 481 can be sized to be received within a specified conduit, where Drof the retainer ridge(s) 480, 481 is substantially similar to the ID of the conduit and greater than the effective outermost diameter (Db) of the ribs 438. In other words, an outermost circumference of the retainer ridge 480 extends beyond the outermost circumference of the plurality of barbs or ribs 438 of the connector body 402. The retainer ridge(s) 480, 481 also have an axial width (wr) 488 that is about equal to an axial width (wb) 489 of each of the ribs 438. These dimensions may allow the press fitting 400 to move slightly relative to the conduit prior to the press sleeve 404 being crimped. As such, a user can determine whether the press sleeve 404 still needs to be crimped.

[0045] In the illustrative embodiment, the pair of retainer ridges 480, 481, as shown in FIGS. 2-4, have substantially the same arc length and are positioned on opposing sides of the connector body 402 and mirror each other. Each of the retainer ridges 480, 481 extends onlypartway around the longitudinal axis L, forming gaps 486 therebetween. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2-4, retainer ridge 480 and retainer ridge 481 are spaced circumferentially apart, where the leading edge of one retainer ridge is separated from the trailing edge of the other retainer ridge by the gaps 486. The gaps 486 are of equal arc distance formed circumferentially between the retainer ridges 480, 481. Although two retainer ridges 480, 481 are illustrated in FIGS. 2-4, it should be appreciated that in some embodiments only one retainer ridge may be included in the connector body 402 and may extend annularly or only partway around the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, more than two retainer ridges 480 may be included on the connector body 402.

[0046] Each of the retainer ridges 480, 481 is spaced circumferentially apart from one another to provide gaps 486 therebetween. The gaps 486 provide spacing for fluid to flow over the plurality of ribs 438, through the gaps 486, and out of the passageway 476 (i.e., though holes 474) to indicate to a user that the press sleeve 404 has not been crimped during a pressure test, for example. In certain examples, only a single gap 486 may be formed into the connector body 402. In other examples, any number of gaps 486 may be formed into the connector body 402.

[0047] Each of the retainer ridges 480, 481 extends less than 50% about the longitudinal axis L to provide the gaps 486. Illustratively, each of the retainer ridges 480, 481 has an arc length that is sufficiently large enough to provide adequate surface area engagement with a conduit received in the passageway 476 to form a friction fit therewith.

[0048] In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 160 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 158 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 156 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 154 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 152 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 150 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 148 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 146 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 144 degreesabout the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is within a range of about 140 degrees to about 142 degrees about the longitudinal axis L.

[0049] In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 140 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 135 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 130 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 130 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 125 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 120 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 115 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 110 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 105 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 100 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 95 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the arc length is at least 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis L.

[0050] Another embodiment of a connector body 502 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. The connector body 502 is substantially similar to connector body 402. Accordingly, the disclosure related to connector body 402 is hereby incorporated herein for connector body 502. Similar reference numbers in the 500 series are used in FIGS. 5 and 6 to reference similar features between connector body 402 and connector body 502.

[0051] The connector body 502 is identical to connector body 402 except that connector body 502 includes a plurality of retainer ridges 580. In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, there are twelve retainer ridges 580 arranged circumferentially. Each of the retainer ridges 580 protrudes from the body and has an arc length that extends circumferentially only partway around the longitudinal axis L. Although twelve retainer ridges 580 are illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6, it should be appreciated that more or less than twelve retainer ridges 580 may be included on the connector body 502.

[0052] Each of the retainer ridges 580 is spaced circumferentially apart from one another to provide gaps 586 therebetween. Thus, the number of gaps 586 provided on the connector body 502 is defined by the number of retainer ridges 580 provided on the connectorbody 502. The gaps 586 provide spacing for fluid to flow over the plurality of ribs or barbs 538, through the gaps 586 to indicate to a user that a press sleeve used with the connector body 502 has not been crimped during a pressure test, for example. Similar to connector body 402, the retainer ridges 580 have an outermost radius (rr) 582 from the longitudinal axis L that is slightly greater than an outermost radius (n,) 584 of each of the ribs 538 to engage a conduit while at least some of the ribs 538 remain spaced apart from the conduit until the press sleeve 504 is crimped to form a permanent coupling.

[0053] Each of the retainer ridges 580 has an arc length 589 that less than 50% about the longitudinal axis L to provide the gaps 586 circumferentially therebetween. Although the length 589 of the retainer ridges 580 may be smaller than each of the retainer ridges 480, 481 described above, the quantity of retainer ridges 580 included in the connector body 502 allows for adequate surface area engagement with a conduit to form a friction fit therewith.

[0054] In some embodiments, the retainer ridges 580 may cumulatively provide a total contact surface area with a conduit that is within a range of about 100 degrees to about 180 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be within a range of about 100 degrees to about 170 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be within a range of about 100 degrees to about 160 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be within a range of about 100 degrees to about 150 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be within a range of about 100 degrees to about 140 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be within a range of about 100 degrees to about 130 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be within a range of about 100 degrees to about 120 degrees about the longitudinal axis L.

[0055] In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be at least 100 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be at least 110 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be at least 120 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be at least 130 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surfacearea with a conduit may be at least 140 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be at least 150 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be at least 160 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be at least 170 degrees about the longitudinal axis L. In some embodiments, the total contact surface area with a conduit may be at least 180 degrees about the longitudinal axis L.

[0056] In the illustrative embodiment, each of the retainer ridges 580 has a width (wr)588 and a length (lr) 589 (i.e. , an arc length) as shown in FIG. 6. The width 588 and the length589 are about equal to one another such that each of the retainer ridges 580 has a generally square cross section in the radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis L, although alternatives are possible. It should be appreciated that the curvature of the retainer ridges 580 about the longitudinal axis L may make the length 589 slightly larger than the width 588 at least in some areas. Each of the retainer ridges 580 is spaced circumferentially from one another by an arc distance (lg) 587 (i.e., gap 586) that is about twice the length 589 of each retainer ridge 580. However, it should be appreciated that this distance can be increased or decreased depending on the number of retainer ridges 580, the length of each retainer ridge 580, etc.

[0057] Another embodiment of a connector body 602 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure is shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. The connector body 602 is substantially similar to connector body 402. Accordingly, the disclosure related to connector body 402 is hereby incorporated herein for connector body 602. Similar reference numbers in the 600 series are used in FIGS. 7 and 8 to reference similar features between connector body 402 and connector body 602.

[0058] The connector body 602 is identical to connector body 402 except that connector body 602 includes a single retainer ridge 680 that extends annularly and entirely around a longitudinal axis L of the connector body 602. The retainer ridge 680 is positioned between two sets of ribs or barbs 638 and has a similar radius and axial length compared to the retainer ridge 480 of connector body 402. For example, the retainer ridge (rr) 680 has an outermost radius 682 from the longitudinal axis L that is slightly greater than an outermost radius (fb) 684 of each of the ribs 638 to engage a conduit while at least some of the ribs 638 remain spaced apart from the conduit until the press sleeve 604 is crimped to form a permanentcoupling. In certain examples, the retainer ridge 680 may extend only partway around the longitudinal axis L forming a single gap 686 on the connector body 602, where the gap 686 is configured to provide spacing for fluid to flow as an indication that the press sleeve has not been crimped during a pressure test.

[0059] To crimp the press sleeve 404, a crimp tool having two axially spaced clamp jaws 401, 403 may be placed around the press sleeve 404 as suggested in FIG. 3. The clamp jaws 401, 403 may have a predetermined spacing which matches spacing between the indicator ribs 498 and the flange 466. The predetermined spacing of the clamp jaws 401, 403 also matches spacing between the two surface portions 434, 534, 634 or sets of barbs 438, 538, 638 formed on the connector bodies 402, 502, 602. The crimp tool can then be squeezed by a user to deform the press sleeve 404 radially inwardly toward the longitudinal axis L while the clamp jaws 401, 402 apply a majority of forces directly radially outward from the plurality of barbs 438, 538, 638. In this way, the indicator rib 498 and the flange 466 guide the crimp tool into position relative to the plurality of barbs 438, 538, 638 to facilitate formation of a seal between the conduit and the plurality of barbs 438, 538, 638. The retainer ridge(s) 480, 481, 580, 680 is positioned axially between the sets of barbs 438, 538, 638 and between the clamp jaws 401, 403 to avoid a majority of the forces from the clamp tool during the crimping action. The clamp jaws 401, 403 are configured to not engage the barbs 438, 538, 638 during this process.

[0060] From the forgoing detailed description, it will be evident that modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A press fitting, comprising: a connector body having a first end, an opposite second end, and a bore that extends through the first and second ends along a longitudinal length thereof, placing the first and second ends in fluid communication, the connector body having an outer surface including: a connection segment extending longitudinally from the first end including a plurality of barbs and a retainer ridge spaced axially between two barbs of the plurality of barbs, and a retainer segment extending longitudinally from the second end and includes a first circumferential wall, a second circumferential wall, and a channel formed therebetween; and a press sleeve having a proximal end including a lip, the press sleeve adapted to be received over the connection segment of the connector body such that the lip of the proximal end of the press sleeve is received into the channel of the connector body forming a snap fit connection therewith, wherein a passageway for receiving a conduit is formed between the press sleeve and the connector body.

2. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein an inner surface of the press sleeve and the outer surface of the connector body defines the passageway.

3. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the plurality of barbs of the connector body extend along the circumferential direction.

4. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the retainer ridge of the connector body extends along the circumferential direction.

5. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein an outermost circumference of the retainer ridge extends beyond the outermost circumference of the plurality of barbs of the connector body.

6. The press fitting of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of barbs includes two sets of barbs, the retainer ridge formed axially between the two sets of barbs.

7. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the retainer ridge comprises a plurality of retainer ridges spaced circumferentially apart from one another to provide gaps therebetween.

8. The press fitting of claim 7, wherein the gaps are configured to provide spacing for fluid to flow as an indication that the press sleeve has not been crimped during a pressure test.

9. The press fitting of claim 7, wherein individual ones of the plurality of retainer ridges are spaced evenly about the circumference of the connector body.

10. The press fitting of claim 7, wherein an arc length of each retainer ridge is greater than an arc length of each gap therebetween.

11. The press fitting of claim 7, wherein an arc length of each retainer ridge is less than an arc length of each gap therebetween.

12. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the press sleeve includes an indicator rib extending circumferentially adapted to facilitate location of a pressing tool used to press or crimp the pressing sleeve.

13. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the first circumferential wall of the retainer segment is adjacent to the connection segment and the second circumferential wall is positioned at the second end of the connector body.

14. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein when the conduit is fully inserted into the passageway, an end face of the conduit abuts the first circumferential wall.

15. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the first circumferential wall includes an inclined surface facing the connection segment and an engagement surface within the channel that isopposite the inclined surface, the inclined surface configured to guide the lip of the press sleeve over the first circumferential wall into the channel of the connector body to form the snap fit connection with the connector body.

16. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the lip at the proximal end of the press sleeve includes a curved edge, the curved edge configured to block the press sleeve from being removed from the channel.

17. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the retainer ridge of the connector body is configured to frictionally engage and temporarily retain the conduit positioned in the passageway.

18. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the retainer ridge is spaced equally between each set of barbs within a recessed region of the connector body such that the retainer ridge is the only protrusion extending away from the longitudinal axis between the two sets of barbs.

19. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein the retainer ridge has an outermost diameter that is substantially similar to the inner diameter of the conduit to be coupled to the press fitting.

20. The press fitting of claim 1, wherein an outermost diameter of the retainer ridge is greater than an outermost diameter the barbs of the plurality of barbs.

21. A connector body for a press fitting, comprising: a first end, an opposite second end, and a bore that extends through the first and second ends along a longitudinal length thereof, placing the first and second ends in fluid communication, the connector body having an outer surface including: a connection segment extending longitudinally from the first end and includes a first set of barbs, a second set of barbs, and a retainer ridge spaced axially between the first and second sets of barbs, and a retainer segment extending longitudinally from the second end and includes a first circumferential wall, a second circumferential wall, and a channel formedtherebetween, the retainer segment configured to receive a lip of a press sleeve configured to extend longitudinally over the connection segment toward the first end forming a passageway for receiving a conduit between the press sleeve and connection body.

22. A press sleeve for a press fitting, comprising: a proximal end including a lip configured to be received over a connection segment of a connector body such that the lip is received into a channel of the connector body forming a snap fit connection therewith, wherein a passageway for receiving a conduit is formed between the press sleeve and connection body, wherein the press sleeve is deformable and configured to be engaged and thereby deformed by a press or crimp tool to connect the conduit to the press fitting.

23. The press sleeve of claim 21, further comprising a flange at a distal end, an indicator rib positioned between the proximal and distal ends and axially apart from the flange defining a crimp region therebetween, and a hole formed in the crimp region of the press sleeve configured for viewing therethrough to view the position of the conduit during insertion.

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