A cable mount for a fluid conduit

Abstract

A cable insertion tube for a fluid conduit, the cable insertion tube comprising at least one tubular member (26) with a central bore therethrough oversized relative to a cable passing therethrough and at least one opening (30, 31) through a sidewall of the at least one tubular member to communicate with the central bore and an insertion tube mount (1) to mount the at least one tubular member (26) relative to a cable entry / exit fitting of the fluid conduit.

Description

[0001] A CABLE MOUNT FOR A FLUID CONDUIT

[0002] Technical Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates generally to the field of pipe access fittings and more particularly to a cable mount for a fluid conduit allowing cable ingress to / egress from a fluid conduit.

[0004] Background to the Invention

[0005] An elongate cable member may be located within a fluid pipe for many purposes including in-pipe and extra-pipe sensing of events, and transmission of data.

[0006] At certain strategic locations along a deployed run, the elongate member will need to exit and re-enter the fluid pipe for example, to by-pass in-line isolation valves, at pipe elbows or to accommodate a change of pipe within which the elongate member is deployed.

[0007] At each entry and exit point of the member, a fitting is required to provide a secure access to the fluid pipe. The fitting may be deployed via an access port onto a pipe which may take several forms, including without limitation, the form of a saddle or weld-on fitting and may present conventionally as either a threaded port or a flange port, noting that optionally other interface port standards may be used for pipe access.

[0008] A well-known technique is that of, one or several, compressed O-rings to seal around the elongate member. These O-rings provide a compressive force onto the elongate member to seal against fluid escape through the fitting. Whilst being simple and widely used, problems exist with O-rings, including the creation of a seal which does not distort or cause damage to the member and yet provides resistance to pull- in / out forces which may be caused by the fluid flow in the pipe.

[0009] Known cable mounts also do not provide cable support into the pipe, do not guide and support an elongate member to the invert of the pipe, nor do they prevent kinking of the elongate member at the pipe interface. The forces exerted on an elongate member in these situations, can be substantial, particularly as an elongate member extends across the pipe to the invert, thereby traversing across the highest flow velocities to the centre of a pipe. It would therefore be an advance in the art to provide a cable mount which overcomes or ameliorates at least one of the above disadvantages or which allows fixed- format, and locally activated, leak simulation ports for system leak training and event sensing system commissioning and / or includes port(s) for attachment at will, of other services needing direct access to the fluid within the conduit.

[0010] Summarv of the Invention

[0011] According to first aspect of the invention, there is provided a cable mount for a fluid conduit, the cable mount comprising: a. A lower main body with a bore therethrough and a shaped opening formed thereinto; b. An upper body for engagement relative to the main body and comprising a cable bore therethrough and a receiving opening oriented towards the shaped opening in the main body; and c. A collet with a collet bore defined by a segmented body and having at least one tapered radial surface to abut a surface of the receiving opening in the upper body and a shaped lower portion with at least one radial surface corresponding to the shaped opening in the main body to resist rotation of the collet as the upper body is tightened onto the lower body, wherein the collet bore has a predefined dimension when the upper body is fully engaged with the main body.

[0012] Providing a cable mount in which the collet bore has a predefined dimension when the upper body is fully engaged (fully bottomed out) with the main body results in the collet exerting sufficient force on the cable extending through the cable bore, the collet bore and the bore in the main body to resist pull in / out forces whilst not distorting or damaging the cable.

[0013] In the context of the present application, the term ‘fluid’ in relation to a fluid conduit may refer to any material, liquid or gaseous, including and fuels such as oil or gas or associated distillates, additionally in industrial uses which may include mining and similar, the invention may more specifically refer to a primarily water-based fluid, such as potable water, pre-treatment water, wastewater or water-based slurries. Similarly, in the context of the present application, the term ‘pipe’ or ‘conduit’ may refer to any fluid conduit used to convey a fluid (gas, liquid or a mixture including a slurry) between two points, spaced apart at or below local ground level. In particular, the ‘pipe’ or ‘conduit’ may traverse at a relatively regular displacement from local ground level, without requiring the ‘pipe’ or ‘conduit’ to be horizontal.

[0014] Whilst the present discussion is in relation to an elongate ‘cable’, it is to be understood that the present invention can be used in relation to any elongate member, whether a ‘cable’ or not, which is to be located within a fluid pipe, for any purpose.

[0015] The cable mount of the present invention may be used in relation to or in conjunction with an access point provided on a fluid conduit. The access point may be provided as a saddle or weld on fitting, attached about an opening through a side wall of the fluid conduit and to an outer portion of the fluid conduit. An upper portion of the access point may include a thread. The thread may be external but may be provided internally. An upper portion of the access point may alternatively be provided with a radially extending flange. In one form, the radially extending flange may have at least one or more than one opening spaced about the circumference of the flange.

[0016] The lower main body of the cable mount may be provided as a part of the access point or more may engage with the access point. The lower part of the main body may be threaded. The lower part of the main body may be threaded internally or threaded externally to engage with an internally threaded access point. Alternatively, the lower main body may be provided with a radially extending flange. In one form, the radially extending flange may have at least one or more than one opening spaced about the circumference of the flange. In use, one or more openings on the radially extending flange on the lower main body may be aligned with one or more openings on the radially extending flange on the access point and fasteners may then be provided through the aligned openings to connect the radially extending flanges to one another.

[0017] The main body of the cable mount may be provided as a single piece. Alternatively, the main body may be provided as more than one piece.

[0018] The bore in the main body may be provided centrally. The bore may have any cross-sectional shape but may be circular in shape. One or more annular seals may be provided at least partially within the bore in the main body to seal against an outer surface of the cable when the cable is provided through the bore in the main body. The one or more annular seals may be retained in position relative to an upper end of the main body and the shaped opening. This retention may be provided in any way, for example a circlip or land or similar may be used to seat against the lower side of the one or more annular seals. Alternatively, the lower side of one or more annular seals may abut a portion of a component seated below the annular seals within the bore, such as a tubular member or arrangement as described below.

[0019] The shaped opening may be formed into an upper / outer end of the main body. The upper / outer end of the main body may be located furthest from the fluid conduit. In one form, the shaped opening may be provided as a depression. The shaped opening may be provided about the upper / outer end of the bore through the main body. The shaped opening may extend downwardly into the upper / outer end. The provision of the shaped opening in the upper / outer end of the main body may provide a step in the upper / outer end of the main body.

[0020] The shaped opening may be provided with a number of abutment surfaces to resist or prevent rotation of the lower end of the collet when inserted into the shaped opening. The abutment surfaces may be provided circumferentially and / or on a base wall of the shaped opening.

[0021] The base wall may be planar. The shaped opening may include a number of sidewalls separated by comers. The number of sidewalls may be important in preventing or resisting rotation. For example, three sidewalls define a triangular opening, four sidewalls define a rectangular shaped opening, five sidewalls define a pentagonal opening, six sidewalls define a hexagonal opening and so on. If the number of sidewalls is too great, then the resistance to rotation may be lessened, as a many- sided shape tends towards a circular shape with an increasing number of sidewalls. In use, the shaped opening may have at least three sidewalls and up to 6 sidewalls.

[0022] The provision of the shaped opening into the upper / outer end of the main body may define an annular upper / outer end face of the main body, radially outside the shaped opening. In one form, the upper / outer end face of the main body will be planar. In one form, the plane of the upper / outer end face of the main body is transverse or perpendicular to the main axis of the bore.

[0023] The upper body may have any shape. The cable bore provided through the upper body may have any shape. The cable bore may be provided centrally. The cable bore in the upper body may align with the bore in the lower main body when engaged therewith, and with the collet bore when assembled.

[0024] The upper body may include a lower surface or portion to abut the upper / outer end of the main body when the upper body is fully engaged with the main body, and fully bottomed out. In use, this abutment may prevent over tightening of the upper body relative to the main body. The lower surface or portion may be annular, about the receiving opening.

[0025] The receiving opening in the upper body may aligned with the shaped opening in the main body to define a collet-receiving opening into which the collet is received. An upper part of the collet-receiving opening may be provided in the upper body of the cable mount, and a lower part of the collet-receiving opening may be defined by the shaped opening in the upper end of the main body.

[0026] The receiving opening in the upper body may comprise at least one tapered radial surface facing inwardly towards the cable bore. The at least one tapered radial surface may correspond to the shape and dimension of the at least one tapered radial surface of the collet, to compress the segmented body of the collet to clamp the cable passing through the collet bore, relative thereto. In a preferred form, the receiving opening in the upper body may be frustoconical in shape with a substantially planar top wall and an open bottom.

[0027] The surface of the receiving opening may be smooth. The surface of the receiving opening may be low friction to minimise any rotation force on the collet when the upper body is engaged with the main body and tightened.

[0028] In use, when the upper body is engaged with the main body with the collet in place within the receiving opening, the receiving opening surface may compress the segmented body of the collet in at least the at least one tapered radial surface, to clamp the cable in the collet bore when the upper body is fully engaged with the main body. The receiving opening may be dimensioned to define a collet bore within the collet of a predetermined outer diameter when the upper body is fully engaged with the main body. In one form, the predetermined outer diameter of the collet bore is slightly smaller than the outer dimension of the cable in order to clamp the cable within the collet bore, to resist pull in / pull out forces which may be exerted on the cable, but without damaging the outer portion of the cable.

[0029] The dimension of the receiving opening tapered side wall and / or height of the receiving opening may be dimensioned to compress the collet. In one form, the compressive force is radially inwardly applied force.

[0030] The upper body may engage with the main body in any way for example through a clamping attachment, using one or more clips to hole the upper body to the main body longitudinally, but a threaded engagement may be provided.

[0031] The collet bore in the collet may be provided centrally through the collet. The collet bore may align with the cable bore in the upper body and the bore in the main body when the main body, collet, and upper body are assembled.

[0032] The collet may be provided as a segmented body with the collet bore defined through the segmented body. The portions of the segmented body may be divided by incisions or slot openings. A lower portion of the collet, for example, the shaped lower portion, may be at least partially undivided.

[0033] The material used to form the collet may have a degree of deformity, even if the collet is formed from a material such as metal for example, such that when the upper body is engaged with the main body, the surfaces of the receiving opening may compress the segments of the segmented body to partially close the incisions or slot openings between the segments in the segmented body to partially close the collet bore.

[0034] In use, this compression may form a radial clamp against a cable extending through the collet bore.

[0035] The collet may have at least one tapered radial surface to abut an inner surface of the receiving opening in the upper body to compress the segmented body of the collet. In a preferred form, the upper body may only compress the segmented body of the collet to define the collet bore of a specific outer diameter, determined according to the outer diameter of the cable provided through the collet bore to clamp against the cable to resist pull in pull out forces but not too otherwise damage or weaken the cable. The tapering radial surface may convert longitudinal movement of the upper body against the collet into radial movement or compression of the segmented body of the collet.

[0036] In a preferred form, the collet is provided with at least one tapered radial surface, and a shaped lower portion with at least one radial surface to correspond to the internal shape of the shaped opening provided in the main body. In one form, the shaped lower portion is smaller than the lower surface of the at least one tapered radial surface of the collet, with a transverse land provided between.

[0037] The at least one tapered radial surface of the collet may correspond to the at least one tapered radial surface of the receiving opening in the upper body, or not.

[0038] The shaped lower portion of the collet may correspond in shape to the internal shape of the shaped opening provided in the main body. The shaped lower portion may be provided in a male configuration with at least one or a number of sidewalls. The number of sidewalls may be important in preventing or resisting rotation. For example, three sidewalls provide a triangular shape, four sidewalls provide a rectangular shape, five sidewalls provide a pentagonal shape, six sidewalls provide a hexagonal shape and so on. In use, the shaped opening may have at least three sidewalls and up to 6 sidewalls and the shaped lower portion will correspond to the shape of the shaped opening. The shaped lower portion may be closely received in the shaped opening to substantially prevent rotation or movement when inserted.

[0039] A lower plug portion may be provided depending from a lower end of the lower surface of the shaped lower portion of the collet. In use, the lower plug portion may be at least partially received in the bore in the main body. The plug portion may apply pressure onto any seals or O-rings provided within the bore in the main body to deform the seals or O-rings to seal against a cable extending therethrough.

[0040] The collet may therefore have a frustoconical upper portion to abut the internal surface of the shaped opening in the upper body, a shaped lower portion to be received within the shaped opening in the main body and a lower plug portion to be at least partially received in the bore in the main body. The frustoconical upper portion may be larger than the shaped lower portion which in turn may be larger than the lower plug portion. A transverse land or step may be provided between the respective portions. The respective portions may be provided concentrically. The frustoconical upper portion, the shaped lower portion and the lower plug portion may be provided coaxially.

[0041] According to a second aspect, there is provided a cable orientation guide comprising at least one, at least semi-rigid tubular arrangement to receive a cable therethrough and a mounting assembly to mount the at least one tubular arrangement relative to a conduit entry / exit fitting.

[0042] Provision of a cable orientation guide may guide the cable and hold the cable within a fluid conduit against fluid forces, particularly to guide the cable from the entry / exit location to the pipe invert.

[0043] The cable orientation guide may be positioned within a fluid conduit. The guide may be oriented substantially transversely to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid conduit.

[0044] The mounting assembly may be provided to mount the at least one tubular arrangement relative to a conduit wall. In one form, the mounting assembly is provided to mount the at least one tubular arrangement relative to an entry / exit fitting for a cable. The cable may then extend through the entry / exit fitting and through the at least one tubular arrangement of the cable orientation guide.

[0045] The mounting assembly may be of any type. For example, a clamping assembly may be used for security of connection of the at least one tubular arrangement but also to allow releasable mounting. A threaded mount could be used.

[0046] The mounting assembly may mount the at least one tubular arrangement within a bore of an entry / exit fitting. An upper end of the at least one tubular arrangement may be provided within the bore to provide a seat against which a lower O-ring or seal may abut to fix the position of the lower O-ring or seal.

[0047] The cable orientation guide may comprise at least one, at least semirigid tubular arrangement to receive a cable therethrough. The at least one tubular arrangement may therefore have a bore extending therethrough. The bore may have an internal surface. The internal surface(s) of the bore may abut an outside surface of a cable. The internal surface(s) may be spaced from an external surface of the cable to allow the cable some movement within the bore, but be constrained within the bore.

[0048] The at least one tubular arrangement may be provided in a length suitable to extend to adjacent to an opposite side of the fluid conduit from the entry location. The opposite side of the fluid conduit from the entry location may be referred to as the "pipe invert".

[0049] The at least one tubular arrangement may include a substantially straight section. The straight section of the at least one tubular arrangement may be provided in any form. For example, the straight section may be provided in a single length or as more than one length segment which are connectable longitudinally to each other to form the tubular arrangement. The tubular arrangement may be formed from a spiralwound member. The tubular arrangement may be formed from a number of segments which are articulated relative to one another. The tubular arrangement may be formed from a single length into which a number of slot openings are formed (by incisions or machining for example) in a side wall to allow the single length to flex in one or more directions upon the application of force, such as may be applied by fluid flow within the fluid conduit.

[0050] The at least one tubular arrangement may be at least semirigid. The straight section of the at least one tubular arrangement in particular may be sufficiently rigid to resist the force of the fluid flow within the fluid conduit.

[0051] An arcuate transition section may be provided at a lower end of a substantially straight section. An arcuate transition section may be provided to guide the cable from an orientation which is substantially transverse to the fluid flow direction in the fluid conduit, to an orientation where the cable extends substantially parallel to and / or abutting the pipe invert. Once in this location, the cable may be held there by the barrier layer of the fluid flow. A portion of the arcuate transition section may be oriented substantially transversely to the fluid flow direction in the fluid conduit and a portion of the arcuate transition section may be provided substantially parallel to a side wall of the fluid conduit. As mentioned above, the arcuate transition section and / or the substantially straight section may be provided to bend or flex in a single direction only, that is, into an orientation which is substantially parallel to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid conduit.

[0052] As mentioned above, more than one straight section may be provided. More than one arcuate section may be provided. The provision of a multiple section tubular arrangement may allow the length of the tubular arrangement to be adapted for use in different conduit dimensions.

[0053] Alternatively, the at least one tubular arrangement (or the straight section and / or the arcuate transition section) may be provided in a unitary or single piece configuration. For example, a spiral-wound member may be provided with the form of a substantially straight section and an arcuate transition section.

[0054] The configuration of the at least one tubular arrangement may be adjusted to provide suitable bend characteristics for different parts of the cable orientation guide.

[0055] The at least one tubular arrangement may be provided of any material. Where provided as a spiral wound member, the member may be substantially circular in cross sectional shape or may be rectangular in cross sectional shape. The cross-sectional shape may be chosen to provide suitable bend characteristics or resistance to bending as required.

[0056] The cable orientation guide may be provided to give external support and guidance to a cable extending therethrough.

[0057] According to a third aspect, there is provided a cable insertion tube for a fluid conduit, the cable insertion tube comprising: a. at least one tubular member with i. a central bore therethrough oversized relative to a cable passing therethrough and ii. at least one opening through a sidewall of the at least one tubular member to communicate with the central bore; and b. an insertion tube mount to mount the at least one tubular member relative to a cable entry / exit fitting of the fluid conduit.

[0058] The provision of a tubular member through which a cable passes and with at least one opening through a side wall of the at least one tubular member may allow the use of fluid flow within the fluid conduit to flush or otherwise clean the cable to mitigate standing water and any microbial growth for example.

[0059] The mounting assembly may be provided to mount the at least one tubular member relative to a conduit wall. In one form, the mounting assembly is provided to mount the at least one tubular member relative to an entry / exit fitting for a cable. The cable may then extend through the entry / exit fitting and through the at least one tubular arrangement of the cable insertion tube.

[0060] The mounting assembly may be of any type. For example, a clamping assembly may be preferred for security of connection of the at least one tubular member but also to allow releasable mounting. A threaded mounting assembly could be used.

[0061] The mounting assembly may mount the at least one tubular member within a bore of an entry / exit fitting. An upper end of the at least one tubular member may be provided within the bore to provide a seat against which a lower O-ring or seal may abut to fix the position of the lower O-ring or seal.

[0062] The at least one tubular member may be formed from more than one portion releasably attachable together to form the tubular member. Alternatively, a single elongate tubular member may be provided.

[0063] The central bore of the at least one tubular member may be oversized relative to a cable passing therethrough. The central bore may therefore be dimensioned to be larger than the outer diameter of the cable which may define an annular space between the inside surface of the tubular member and an outside surface of the cable.

[0064] The central bore of the cable insertion tube may have any shape. A circular cross-sectional shape is preferred, but any other shape may be used to create a desired flow pattern within the preferred annular space between the outer surface of the cable and the inner surface of the tubular member. A lower end of the tubular member may be left open. A lower end of the tubular member may be spaced from the pipe invert. An open lower end of the tubular member may have an arcuate transition portion provided relative thereto for example, a spiralwound arcuate transition portion may be provided relative to the open lower end of the tubular member to guide the cable to lie against the pipe invert but will still allow fluid exit from the tubular member.

[0065] The at least one tubular member will include at least one opening through a side wall to communicate with the central bore, and / or with the annular space between the outer surface of cable and the inner surface of the tubular member. Any number of openings may be provided. The number of openings provided may be dependent upon the length of the at least one tubular member.

[0066] The openings may be provided in any shape. One or more openings may be provided in any position on the tubular member. For example, a number of openings may be provided on an upstream side of the at least one tubular member for entry of fluid under prevailing fluid flow in the conduit with the fluid circulating within the preferred annular space and then exiting through the open lower end of the at least one tubular member. In another form, a single upper opening may be provided on an upstream side of the tubular member for entry of the fluid under prevailing fluid flow and the fluid may then circulate through the preferred annular space before exiting through the open lower end of the tubular member.

[0067] In still another form, one or more slot openings extending longitudinal over the length of the tubular member may be provided.

[0068] At least one opening may be angled relative to the prevailing fluid flow to create a desired fluid flow pattern within the preferred annular space of the cable insertion tube. For example, one or more openings may be radially offset relative to the flow direction to promote circular or rotational flow within the preferred annular space. One or more openings may be angled toward or away from the lower end of the at least one tubular member to promote fluid flow toward or away from the lower end of the at least one tubular member. If angled, the angle of the openings may depend upon the location of the opening on the at least one tubular member. For example, an upper opening, closer to the insertion tube mount, may be angled toward the insertion tube mount, and / or a lower opening, further from the insertion tube mount may be angled away from the insertion tube mount, and toward the lower end of the at least one tubular member.

[0069] The particular combination of number of openings, orientation of openings, and position of openings may be optimised to provide the required or desired fluid flow pattern within the preferred annular space.

[0070] The at least one tubular extension portion may extend at least partially into a fitting assembly used as a part of a cable mount, outside the external diameter of the fluid conduit. Instead of the extension of the at least one tubular member, one or more separate tubular members could be provided alternatively. One or more openings may be provided in the extension portion outside the external diameter of the fluid conduit to flush or otherwise clean the cable up to a preferred seal provided about the cable, within the fitting assembly.

[0071] If the tubular member extends into the fitting assembly, an annular space may be provided between an outer side of the tubular member and the inner side of the fitting assembly.

[0072] At least one opening provided in the extension portion of the tubular member in this location may be angled relative to the prevailing fluid flow to create a desired fluid flow pattern within the preferred annular space. For example, one or more openings may be radially offset relative to the flow direction to promote circular or rotational flow within the preferred annular space. One or more openings may be angled toward or away from the lower end of the at least one tubular member to promote fluid flow toward or away from the lower end of the at least one tubular member. If angled, the angle of the openings may depend upon the location of the opening on the at least one tubular member. For example, an upper opening, closer to the insertion tube mount, may be angled toward the insertion tube mount, and / or a lower opening, further from the insertion tube mount may be angled away from the insertion tube mount, and toward the lower end of the at least one tubular member. At least one opening may be provided on an upstream side of the extension portion and / or, at least one opening may be provided on a downstream side of the extension portion. The combination of number of openings, orientation of openings, and position of openings may be optimised to provide the required or desired fluid flow pattern within the preferred annular space.

[0073] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a cable mount with one or more ports, the cable mount comprising a body with a longitudinal bore therethrough through which a cable extends into a fluid conduit, at least one port, and at least one radial valve in communication with the longitudinal bore and the at least one port to fluidly connect the longitudinal bore and the at least one port when at least partially open and to fluidly block the longitudinal bore and the at least one port when closed to prevent fluid flow.

[0074] Provision of a cable mount as described may allow selective access to the fluid within the fluid conduit for a wide variety of purposes.

[0075] In use, the cable mount may be associated with an entry / exit fitting on a fluid conduit, for a cable.

[0076] The cable mount may be provided on an outer side of the fluid conduit. Cable mount may be provided adjacent to the conduit wall. The cable mount may be provided as a part of an entry / exit fitting on the fluid conduit. In one form, the cable mount may be provided at least partially within a saddle or weld on fitting used to allow entry / exit for a cable.

[0077] The body may be provided in any shape. The body may be provided in any size.

[0078] The longitudinal bore may extend substantially transversely to the direction of fluid flow within the fluid conduit relative which the cable mount is provided. One or more seals or O-rings may be provided at an upper end of the longitudinal bore, at least partially within the longitudinal bore to seal against the cable provided through the cable mount. The one or more seals or O-rings may also act to seal an upper end of the longitudinal bore such that any fluid flow is forced against the at least one radial valve.

[0079] The longitudinal bore may extend to or be in fluid communication with the fluid flow within the fluid conduit.

[0080] The at least one radial valve may be provided in communication with the longitudinal bore and the at least one port to fluidly connect the longitudinal bore and the at least one port when at least partially open. A channel may be provided, extending radially from the longitudinal bore to an outside of the body of the cable mount. A valve member may be seated within the channel and movable between the at least partially open position and the closed position. In one form, the valve member may be screw actuated to provide infinite adjustment. In another form, the valve member may be manually controlled. The valve member may be powered or mechanically actuated, for example by a control system.

[0081] A seal, optionally a gasket seal may be provided on an inner end of the channel against which the valve member seals in the closed position.

[0082] One or more ports may extend from the channel to an outside of the body. In one form, the one or more ports may extend substantially perpendicularly to the channel. The one or more ports may extend on one side of the channel only. In use, the channel may connect the longitudinal bore with the one or more ports, with the valve member controlling flow from the longitudinal bore and out of one or more ports.

[0083] The number of ports may match the number of channels in one-to-one conformity. For example, if two channels are provided extending radially from the longitudinal bore, on opposite radial sides of the longitudinal bore, each may be associated with a port, with a valve controlling fluid flow between the longitudinal bore and each port.

[0084] Where multiple ports are provided, the ports may be configured differently. For example, more than one port may be provided in different diameters. Where different diameter ports may be provided, these can be used for any purpose, for example, different diameter ports may be used to simulate different leak situations, to obtain fluid from the fluid conduit and / or to attach test probes for example.

[0085] One or more additional radial port may be provided communicating with the longitudinal bore.

[0086] An adapter or fitting with a valve to prevent flow may be provided relative to the one or more additional radial ports.

[0087] The valve may comprise a depressible valve member which is held closed by fluid pressure from the fluid conduit until the valve member is depressed into an open condition, for example by connection of an external apparatus. The external apparatus which may include inter alia pressure transducers, remotely activated leak simulations, fluid quality sensing apparatus, sample test points and fluid pressure based venting micro-power harvesting

[0088] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided, an anti-tamper / tamper evidence arrangement for a conduit entry / exit fitting, the arrangement comprising: a. a lower main body mounted to a fluid conduit and having a bore therethrough and a radially extending flange with at least one opening therethrough; b. a top ring with a bore therethrough and a radial tab with at least one opening; c. an elongate member; and d. a lock plug connected to the elongate member once the elongate member is threaded through the at least one opening in the main body and the at least one opening the radial tab of the top ring and adapted to rupture the lock plug and / or the elongate member if the top ring is moved relative to the main body after connection.

[0089] Provision of anti-tamper / temper evidence arrangement may minimise or prevent tampering and / or, if tampering has occurred, provide an apparatus to show evidence of tampering.

[0090] The main body of the anti-tamper / temper evidence arrangement may be the main body of the cable mount as described above.

[0091] The radially extending flange may be integrally formed with the main body. The main body may be provided separately or integrally with the entry / exit fitting.

[0092] Although the radially extending flange may extend in any orientation from the main body, optionally radially extending flange extends perpendicularly from the longitudinal axis of the main body.

[0093] The radially extending flange may be annular.

[0094] More than one opening may be provided in the radially extending flange. Any number of openings may be provided in the radially extending flange. The opening(s) in the radially extending flange may have any shape. In one form, a number of openings will be provided, spaced about the radially extending flange.

[0095] The top ring may be annular. The top ring may substantially correspond, at least in outer diameter to the dimension of the radially extending flange to position the at least one opening in the radial tab of the top ring in alignment with the at least one opening in the radially extending flange.

[0096] The top ring may be positioned between the upper body and the main body. The top ring may be sandwiched between the upper body and the main body. The top ring may be provided as a part of or attachable to the upper body.

[0097] The top ring may be rigid or resilient to have a sealing function. The bore of the top ring may be sufficiently large to receive the collet as described above without obstructing compression of the segmented body of the collet.

[0098] The radial tab may be provided as a single tab only. The radial tab may have any size and any shape. The opening in the radial tab may be positioned to align with an opening in the radially extending flange on the main body when the upper body is fully engaged and bottomed out on the main body.

[0099] Any type of elongate member may be provided. The elongate member may be fully flexible or the elongate member may be deformable but semi-rigid. A thin metal such as wire or similar could be used to allow the elongate member to be deformed but still provide a substantial degree of strength against accidental damage.

[0100] The lock plug may be connected or connectable to the elongate member. The lock plug may be formed of any material. A malleable material may be preferred. This may allow one or more portions of the elongate member to be at least partially embedded in the lock plug.

[0101] The lock plug may have any shape.

[0102] In use, the elongate member may be passed through the aligned openings in the radially extending flange of the main body and the radial tab of the top ring once the upper body is fully engaged and bottomed out on the main body and then wound onto / into the lock plug such that any tampering with the conduit entry / exit fitting will force rupture or at least dislocation of the elongate member and / or lock plug. In one form, the elongate member will be tightly connected through the aligned openings when the upper body is fully engaged and bottomed out on the main body.

[0103] The aspects of the invention may be combined. For example, the cable mount for a fluid conduit of the first aspect may be combined with the anti-tamper / temper evidence arrangement for the fifth aspect. The cable orientation guide of the second aspect may be combined with the cable insertion tube of the third aspect and / or the ported cable mount of the fourth aspect. The ported cable mount of the fourth aspect may be combined with any of the other aspects.

[0104] Aspect 1 may be combined with any one or more of the remaining aspects.

[0105] Aspect 2 may be combined with any one or more of the remaining aspects.

[0106] Aspect 3 may be combined with any one or more of the remaining aspects.

[0107] Aspect 4 may be combined with any one or more of the remaining aspects.

[0108] Aspect 5 may be combined with any one or more of the remaining aspects.

[0109] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0110] In order that the invention may be more clearly understood one or more embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

[0111] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a fluid conduit with an entry / exit fitting comprising a cable mount according to an embodiment.

[0112] Figure 2 is a sectional side elevation view of a cable mount according to an embodiment.

[0113] Figure 3 is a top view of a collet as illustrated in Figure 2.

[0114] Figure 4 is a side elevation view of the collet illustrated in Figure 3.

[0115] Figure 5 is a view from below of the collet illustrated in Figure 3.

[0116] Figure 6 is a sectional side elevation view of a cable mount as illustrated in Figure

[0117] 2 with a first fitting assembly for attachment to a pipe. Figure 7 is a sectional side elevation view of a cable mount as illustrated in Figure 2 with a second fitting assembly for attachment to a pipe.

[0118] Figure 8 is a sectional side elevation view of conduit showing two possible cable stiffening arrangements.

[0119] Figure 9 is a top view of a ported collar according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0120] Figure 10 is a side elevation view of the ported collar illustrated in Figure 9.

[0121] Figure 11 is a click- fit adaptor for use with the ported collar illustrated in Figure

[0122] 9.

[0123] Figure 12 is a side elevation view of a support tube to derive a flushing flow of fluid from the fluid conduit according to an aspect.

[0124] Figure 13 is a front view of a possible opening configuration in the support tube illustrated in Figure 12.

[0125] Figure 14 is a front view of a second possible opening configuration in the support tube illustrated in Figure 12.

[0126] Figure 15 is a side elevation view of a support tube as illustrated in Figure 12 with a flushing arrangement at an upper captured end of the support tube.

[0127] Figure 16 is a side elevation view of a support tube as illustrated in Figure 12 with a second flushing arrangement at an upper captured end of the support tube.

[0128] Figure 17 is a sectional side view of an entry / exit fitting according to an embodiment with an anti-tamper / tamper evidence arrangement.

[0129] Figure 18 is a top view of an anti-tamper / tamper evidence top ring from the arrangement shown in Figure 17.

[0130] Figure 19 is a top view of an anti-tamper / tamper evidence bottom flange from the arrangement shown in Figure 17. Figure 1, marked as ‘prior art’, shows a conventional arrangement for a pressure proofed entry / exit fitting. An elongate fluid conduit 60 with fluid flow in the direction of arrow 28 is provided with an entry / exit fitting 1 which has a bore through which cable 2 extends. A compressed O ring seal assembly 3 is provided within the bore of the entry / exit fitting 1 to both seal about the cable and to resist pull-in / out force on the cable which will be exerted by the fluid flow 28. A clear kinking point 61 is seen for the cable under the force of the fluid flow 28. The cable 2, can undergo excessive motion initially under the force of the fluid flow and can be carried into a prone position closer to the central, higher flow velocities. Abrasive particles (if present in the fluid flow) will tend to be carried closer to the central, higher flow velocities as well which can adversely affect the integrity of the cable. Moreover, in order for the compressed O ring seal assembly 3 to resist pull-in / out force on the cable, the O ring seal assembly 3 will be required to apply excessive compression force to the cable, which may damage or at least adversely affect the integrity of the cable.

[0131] Figures 2 to 5 show a cable mount for a fluid conduit to seal and resist pull- in / out force on the cable 2. As illustrated, the cable mount comprises a lower main body 7 with a bore 40 therethrough and a shaped opening 41 formed thereinto. An upper body 6 is provided for engagement relative to the main body 7 and having a cable bore 42 therethrough. The upper body 6 also has a receiving opening 43 oriented towards the shaped opening 41 in the main body 7. A collet 8 (also illustrated in Figures 3 to 5) is provided between the upper body 6 and lower body 7. The collet 8 has a collet bore 44 defined by a segmented body, as shown in Figure 3. The collet 8 has an upper tapered radial surface 46 to abut a surface of the receiving opening 43 in the upper body 6 and a shaped lower portion 45 with at least one radial surface (hexagonally shaped in Figure 5) corresponding to the shaped opening 41 in the main body 7 to resist rotation of the collet 8 as the upper body 6 is tightened onto the lower body 7. The collet bore 44 has a predefined dimension when the upper body 6 is fully engaged with the main body 7 which grips the cable 2 to resist pull in / pull out forces, but to minimise or prevent damage to the cable 2. As illustrated in Figure 2, a pair of annular seals 9 are provided within the bore 40 in the main body 7 to seal against an outer surface of the cable 2 when the cable 2 is provided through the bore 40 in the main body 7.

[0132] The collet 4 is provided with a stepped shoulder 8 which acts with a defined downwards pressure onto the O ring assembly 9 when the shoulder 8 is fully pressed to the corresponding shoulder in the main body 7. The top nut 6 and main body assembly 7 are facilitated to provide an optimum grip from the collet 5 and force on the O ring assembly 9 when the top nut 6 is fully bottomed out, ensuring the use of the fitting is consistent and operator error proofed. An anti-tamper wire locating ring 36 fits between the top nut 6 and main body 7, allowing a wire and lead seal to be deployed post installation, such as to make any retrospective tampering with the fitting to be evident, the main body may be presented with multiple holes to the rim to provide for optimum location of the anti-tamper wire insertion.

[0133] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the cable mount maybe used in relation to or in conjunction with an entry / exit fitting 1 provided on a fluid conduit 60. The entry / exit fitting 1 may be provided as a saddle or weld on fitting, attached about an opening through a side wall of the fluid conduit 60 and to an outer portion of the fluid conduit 60. An upper portion of the entry / exit fitting 1 may include an internally threaded collar portion 11 as shown in Figure 6.

[0134] An upper portion of the entry / exit fitting 1 may alternatively be provided with a radially extending flange 12 as shown in Figure 7 having at least one or more than one opening spaced about the circumference of the flange 12.

[0135] The lower main body 7 may engage with the access point. The lower part of the main body 7 illustrated in Figure 6 is externally threaded to engage with the internally threaded upper portion of the entry / exit fitting 1.

[0136] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 7, the lower main body 7 may be provided with a radially extending flange 12’ with at least one or more than one opening spaced about the circumference of the flange 12’. In use, one or more openings on the radially extending flange 12’ on the lower main body 7 may be aligned with one or more openings on the radially extending flange 12 on the entry / exit fitting 1 and fasteners (not shown) may then be provided through the aligned openings to connect the radially extending flanges to one another and the main body 7 to the entry / exit fitting 1.

[0137] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the assembly may have an upper support member or spring 13 to provide anti -kinking of the cable at the entry to the upper body 6 and to provide mitigation for rodent damage to the cable for example. In this embodiment, the spring 13 is of suitable dimensions, wire diameter and spring tension determined by the construction of the cable 2. Such spring 13 may be of circular profile wire, or in other embodiments may be of square or oblong section.

[0138] The upper body 7 includes an outer lower surface or portion to abut the upper / outer end of the main body 7 when the upper body 6 is fully engaged with the main body 7, and fully bottomed out. This abutment may prevent over tightening of the upper body 6 relative to the main body 7. The lower surface or portion shown is annular, about the receiving opening 43.

[0139] As shown in Figure 2 in particular, the receiving opening 43 in the upper body 6 is aligned with the shaped opening 41 in the main body 7 to define a collet-receiving opening into which the collet 8 is received. In this form, an upper part of the colletreceiving opening is the receiving opening 43 in the upper body 6, and a lower part of the collet-receiving opening is defined by the shaped opening 41 in the upper end of the main body 7.

[0140] The receiving opening 43 in the upper body 6 comprises a tapered radial surface facing inwardly towards the cable bore 40. The tapered radial surface corresponds to the shape and dimension of the tapered radial surface of the collet 8, to compress the segmented body of the collet 8 to clamp the cable 2 passing through the collet bore 44, relative thereto. In the illustrated form, the receiving opening 43 in the upper body 6 is frustoconical in shape with a substantially planar top wall and an open bottom.

[0141] In use, when the upper body 6 is engaged with the main body 7 with the collet 8 in place within the receiving opening 43, the receiving opening surface compresses the segmented body of the collet 8 to clamp the cable 2 in the collet bore 44 when the upper body 6 is fully engaged with the main body 7. The receiving opening 43 is dimensioned to define a collet bore 44 within the collet 8 of a predetermined outer diameter when the upper body 7 is fully engaged with the main body 6. In one form, the predetermined outer diameter of the collet bore 44 is slightly smaller than the outer dimension of the cable 2 in order to clamp the cable 2 within the collet bore 44, to resist pull in / pull out forces which may be exerted on the cable 2, but without damaging the cable 2.

[0142] The upper body 6 may engage with the main body 7 in any way for example through a clamping attachment, using one or more clips to hole the upper body to the main body longitudinally, but a threaded engagement may be preferred.

[0143] As shown in Figure 3, the collet 8 is provided as a segmented upper body with the collet bore 44 defined through the segmented body. The portions of the segmented body may be divided by incisions or slot openings. A lower portion of the collet 8, for example, the shaped lower portion, may be at least partially undivided.

[0144] The material used to form the collet 8 may have a degree of deformity, even if the collet 8 is formed from a material such as metal for example, such that when the upper body 6 is engaged with the main body 7, the surfaces of the receiving opening 43 may compress the segments of the segmented body to partially close the incisions or slot openings between the segments in the segmented body to partially close the collet bore 44.

[0145] In use, this compression may form a radial clamp against a cable 2 extending through the collet bore 44.

[0146] In a preferred form illustrated in Figures 2 to 5, the collet 8 is provided with an upper tapered radial surface 46, and a shaped lower portion 45 with sidewalls to correspond to the internal shape of the shaped opening 41 provided in the main body 7. In one form, the shaped lower portion 45 is smaller than the lower surface of the tapered radial surface 46 of the collet 8, with a transverse land 47 provided between.

[0147] The shaped lower portion 45 of the collet 8 corresponds in shape to the internal shape of the shaped opening 41 provided in the main body 7. The shaped lower portion 45 is provided in a male configuration with a number of sidewalls. In use, the shaped opening 41 will have at least three sidewalls, up to 6 sidewalls and the shaped lower portion 45 will correspond to the shape of the shaped opening 41. The shaped lower portion 45 may be closely received in the shaped opening 41 to substantially prevent rotation or movement when inserted.

[0148] As shown in Figures 2, 5 and 6, a lower plug portion 48 may be provided depending from a lower end of the lower surface of the shaped lower portion 45 of the collet 8. In use, the lower plug portion 48 may be at least partially received in the bore 40 in the main body 7. The plug portion 48 may apply pressure onto the O-rings 9 provided within the bore 40 in the main body 7 to deform the O-rings 9 to seal against a cable 2 extending therethrough.

[0149] A transverse land or step may be provided between the respective portions. The respective portions are provided concentrically and coaxially.

[0150] Figure 8 shows a fitting assembly whereby two methods of cable support, guiding and protection are provided for the cable when entering the fluid conduit 60.

[0151] Both illustrated methods include at least one, at least semi-rigid tubular arrangement to receive a cable 2 therethrough and a mounting assembly to mount the tubular arrangement relative to a conduit entry / exit fitting 1.

[0152] As shown, the cable orientation guide may be positioned within a fluid conduit 60 and oriented substantially transversely to the direction of fluid flow through the fluid conduit 60.

[0153] The mounting assembly is provided to mount the tubular arrangement relative to a conduit wall, relative to an entry / exit fitting 1 for a cable 2. The cable 2 then extends through the entry / exit fitting 1 and through the tubular arrangement of the cable orientation guide.

[0154] The mounting assembly may be of any type. For example, a clamping assembly may be preferred for security of connection of the at least one tubular arrangement but also to allow releasable mounting. A threaded mount could be used.

[0155] The mounting assembly mounts the at least one tubular arrangement within a bore of an entry / exit fitting. An upper end of the tubular arrangement shown in Figure 8 may be provided within the bore 40 shown in Figure 2, 5 or 6 to provide a seat against which a lower O-ring 9 may abut to fix the position of the lower O-ring 9. Regardless of the configuration, the tubular arrangement has a bore extending therethrough. As shown in Figure 8, the tubular arrangement is provided in a length suitable to extend to adjacent to an opposite side of the fluid conduit 60 from the entry location, which is referred to as the "pipe invert" 15 as shown in Figure 8.

[0156] The tubular arrangements illustrated in Figure 8 both include a substantially straight section. The straight section of the tubular arrangement in particular may be sufficiently rigid to resist the force of the fluid flow within the fluid conduit 60.

[0157] The straight section may be provided in a single length as shown in the lefthand arrangement of Figure 8, or as multiple segments, 16, 19 which are connectable longitudinally to each other by connectors 16a, to form the tubular arrangement as shown in the right-hand arrangement of Figure 8.

[0158] The tubular arrangement as shown in the left-hand arrangement of Figure 8 is formed from a spiral- wound member or spring 14. Where provided as a spiral wound member, the member may be substantially circular in cross sectional shape or may be rectangular in cross sectional shape. The cross-sectional shape may be chosen to provide suitable bend characteristics or resistance to bending as required.

[0159] A spring, or other embodiment, may preferentially create a defined limited flexing according to the allowable bending radius of the cable 2.

[0160] An arcuate transition section 18 may be provided at a lower end of a substantially straight section to guide the cable 2 from an orientation which is substantially transverse to the fluid flow direction in the fluid conduit 60, to an orientation where the cable 2 extends substantially parallel to, and abuts the pipe invert 15. The arcuate transition section 18 may be provided integrally with the straight section as shown in the left-hand arrangement of Figure 8 or is connected to the lower end of the straight section at 17, as shown in the right-hand arrangement of Figure 8.

[0161] As mentioned above, more than one straight section as shown on the right-hand side of Figure 8 may be provided. The provision of a multiple- section tubular arrangement may allow the length of the tubular arrangement to be adapted for use in different conduit 60 dimensions. Alternatively, the at least one tubular arrangement (or the straight section and / or the arcuate transition section) may be provided in a unitary or single piece configuration. For example, a spiral-wound member may be provided with the form of a substantially straight section and an arcuate transition section.

[0162] Figures 9 to 11 shows a cable mount with one or more ports. The illustrated cable mount comprises a cylindrical body 49 with a longitudinal bore 21 therethrough through which a cable (not shown) extends into a fluid conduit. The body has a pair of ports 20, and a radial valve in communication with the longitudinal bore 21 and each port 20 to fluidly connect the longitudinal bore 21 and each port 20 when at least partially open and to fluidly block the longitudinal bore 21 and each port 20 when closed to prevent fluid flow.

[0163] The longitudinal bore 21 extends substantially transversely to the direction of fluid flow within the fluid conduit relative which the cable mount is provided. The bore 21 is larger than the cable 2 which allows fluid to pass upwardly into the cable mount to the valves. One or more seals or O-rings 9 are provided at an upper end of the longitudinal bore, at least partially within the longitudinal bore 21 to seal against the cable provided through the cable mount. The one or more seals or O-rings also act to seal an upper end of the longitudinal bore 21 such that any fluid flow is forced against the at least one radial valve. A lower end of the longitudinal bore 21 is in fluid communication with the fluid flow within the fluid conduit.

[0164] The radial valves are provided in communication with the longitudinal bore 21 and each port 20 to fluidly connect the longitudinal bore 21 and each port 20 when at least partially open. In the illustrated embodiment, a channel 50 is provided, extending radially from the longitudinal bore 21 to an outside of the body 49 of the cable mount. A valve member 22 is seated within the channel 50 and movable between the at least partially open position and the closed position. In one form, the valve member 22 may be screw actuated to provide infinite adjustment. The valve member 22 may be manually controlled and / or the valve member 22 may be powered or mechanically actuated, for example by a control system.

[0165] As shown, a gasket seal 23 is provided on an inner end of the channel 50 against which the valve member 22 seals in the closed position to prevent fluid flow. The ports 20 extend from the channel 50 to an outside of the body 49. As shown in Figure 9, the ports may extend substantially perpendicularly to the channel 21. In use, a channel 50 connects the longitudinal bore 21 with each port 20, with the valve member 22 controlling flow from the longitudinal bore 21 and out of each port 20.

[0166] The number of ports 20 may match the number of channels 50 in one-to-one conformity. As shown, two channels 50 are provided extending radially from the longitudinal bore 21, on opposite radial sides of the longitudinal bore 21, each may be associated with a port 20, with a valve 22 controlling fluid flow between the longitudinal bore 21 and each port 20.

[0167] Where multiple ports 20 are provided as shown, the ports 20 may be provided in different diameters. Where different diameter ports may be provided, these can be used for any purpose, for example, different diameter ports may be used to simulate different leak situations, to obtain fluid from the fluid conduit and / or to attach test probes.

[0168] In the embodiment shown in Figures 9 to 11, an additional radial port 24 is provided communicating with the longitudinal bore 21. A click-fit adapter or fitting 25 as shown in Figure 11 with an integral valve to prevent flow may be provided relative to the additional radial port 21 for at-will, live connection of external apparatus. The integral valve may comprise a depressible valve member which is held closed by fluid pressure from the fluid conduit until the valve member is depressed into an open condition, for example by connection of an external apparatus. The external apparatus which may include inter alia pressure transducers, remotely activated leak simulations, fluid quality sensing apparatus, sample test points and fluid pressure based venting micro-power harvesting.

[0169] Figures 12 to 16 show embodiments of a cable insertion tube for a fluid conduit, to allow the use of fluid flow 28 within the fluid conduit to flush or otherwise clean the cable to mitigate standing water and any microbial growth for example.

[0170] The cable insertion tube comprises a tubular member 26 with a central bore therethrough, oversized relative to a cable 2 passing therethrough and at least one opening 30, 31 through a sidewall of the tubular member 26 to communicate with the central bore. The tubular member is mounted within the fluid conduit 60 via an insertion tube mount to mount the tubular member 26 relative to a cable entry / exit fitting 1 of the fluid conduit. The insertion tube mount may be as described above.

[0171] The tubular member 26 may be formed from more than one portion releasably attachable together to form the tubular member 26. Alternatively, a single elongate tubular member may be provided as shown in Figures 12 to 16.

[0172] The central bore of the tubular member is oversized relative to a cable 2 passing therethrough to define an annular space between the inside surface of the tubular member 26 and the outside surface of the cable 2.

[0173] A lower end of the tubular member 26 may be left open as that may allow fluid which has entered the annular space through the openings 30, 31 to escape the tubular member 26 as shown at 29. In one form, the fluid entering will move downwardly 27 before exiting. The lower end of the tubular member may be spaced from the pipe invert 15 as shown in Figures 12, 15 and 16. An open lower end of the tubular member may have an arcuate transition portion provided relative thereto for example, an arcuate transition portion 18 as explained above may be provided relative to the open lower end of the tubular member 26 to guide the cable 2 to lie against the pipe invert 15 but will still allow fluid exit from the tubular member 26.

[0174] Any number of openings through the side wall may be provided. The openings may be provided in any shape. One or more openings may be provided in any position on the tubular member. For example, as shown in Fire 13, a number of openings 30 may be provided on an upstream side of the tubular member 26 for entry of fluid under prevailing fluid flow 28 in the conduit, with the fluid circulating within the annular space outside the cable 2, and then exiting through the open lower end of the tubular member 26. In another form shown in Figure 14, a single slot opening 31 may be provided on an upstream side of the tubular member 26 for entry of the fluid under prevailing fluid flow 26.

[0175] The particular combination of number of openings, orientation of openings, and position of openings may be optimised to provide the required or desired fluid flow pattern within the preferred annular space. As shown in Figures 15 and 16, the tubular member may extend at least partially into a fitting assembly 1 used as a part of a cable mount, outside the external diameter of the fluid conduit 60. One or more openings may be provided in the extension portion outside the external diameter of the fluid conduit 60 to flush or otherwise clean the cable 2 up to a preferred seal provided about the cable 2, within the fitting assembly 1.

[0176] An annular space may be provided between an outer side of the tubular member 26 and the inner side of the fitting assembly wall 34.

[0177] The combination of number of openings, orientation of openings, and position of openings may be optimised to provide the required or desired fluid flow pattern within the preferred annular space. In Figure 15, the openings 32 are provided in an upstream side of the extension tube. In Figure 16, the openings 33 are provided in a downstream side of the extension tube.

[0178] Figures 17 to 19 shows an anti-tamper / tamper evidence arrangement for a conduit entry / exit fitting used in combination with the cable mount shown in Figure 6. The anti-tamper / tamper evidence arrangement comprises lower main body mounted to a fluid conduit and having a bore therethrough and a radially extending flange 37 with a number of openings 52 therethrough, a top ring 36 with a bore therethrough and a radial tab 51 with an opening, an elongate member 38 and lock plug 53 connected to the elongate member 38 once the elongate member 38 is threaded through an opening 52 in the flange 37 and the opening the radial tab 51 of the top ring 36 and adapted to rupture the lock plug 53 and / or the elongate member 38 if the top ring 36 is moved relative to the main body 7 after connection.

[0179] The main body of the anti-tamper / temper evidence arrangement may be the main body 7 of the cable mount as described above.

[0180] The radially extending flange may be integrally formed with the main body 7. The main body may be provided separately or integrally with the entry / exit fitting.

[0181] As shown, the top ring 36 is annular. The top ring 36 may substantially correspond, at least in outer diameter to the dimension of the radially extending flange 37, to position the opening in the radial tab 51 of the top ring 36 in alignment with at least one opening 52 in the radially extending flange 37.

[0182] As shown, the top ring is positioned between the upper body 6 and the main body 7.

[0183] The bore of the top ring 36 is sufficiently large to receive the collet 8 as described above without obstructing compression of the segmented body of the collet 8 as shown in Figure 17.

[0184] The opening in the radial tab 51 is positioned to align with an opening 52 in the radially extending flange 37 on the main body 7 when the upper body 6 is fully engaged and bottomed out on the main body 7.

[0185] In the illustrated embodiment, a thin metal wire is used for the elongate member 38 to allow the elongate member 38 to be deformed but still provide a substantial degree of strength against accidental damage.

[0186] The lock plug 53 is connected or connectable to the elongate member 38. The lock plug 53 may be formed of any material. A malleable material such as lead may be preferred. This may allow one or more portions of the elongate member to be at least partially embedded in the lock plug.

[0187] In use, the elongate member 38 is passed through the aligned openings in the radially extending flange 37 of the main body 7 and the radial tab 51 of the top ring 38 once the upper body 6 is fully engaged and bottomed out on the main body 7 and then wound onto / into the lock plug 53 such that any tampering with the conduit entry / exit fitting 1 will force rupture or at least dislocation of the elongate member 38 and / or lock plug 53. In one form, the elongate member 38 will be tightly connected through the aligned openings when the upper body 6 is fully engaged and bottomed out on the main body 7.

[0188] The one or more embodiments are described above by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of protection afforded by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A cable insertion tube for a fluid conduit, the cable insertion tube comprising a. at least one tubular member with i. a central bore therethrough oversized relative to a cable passing therethrough and ii. at least one opening through a sidewall of the at least one tubular member to communicate with the central bore; and b. an insertion tube mount to mount the at least one tubular member relative to a cable entry / exit fitting of the fluid conduit.

2. A cable insertion tube as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one tubular member is formed from more than one portion releasably attachable together to form the tubular member.

3. A cable insertion tube as claimed in claim 1 wherein a single elongate tubular member is provided.

4. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a lower end of the tubular member is left open.

5. A cable insertion tube as claimed in claim 4 wherein the open lower end of the tubular member has an arcuate transition portion provided relative thereto.

6. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the central bore is oversized relative to the cable passing therethrough to define an annular space between an inside surface of the tubular member and an outside surface of the cable.

7. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a number of openings are provided in the at least one tubular member for entry of fluid under prevailing fluid flow in the conduit.

8. A cable insertion tube as claimed in claim 7 wherein the number of openings are provided on an upstream side of at least one tubular member.

9. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein a single upper opening is provided on an upstream side of the tubular member for entry of the fluid under prevailing fluid flow.

10. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein one or more slot openings are provided extending longitudinally over a portion of the tubular member.

11. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of the preceding claims at least one opening in the sidewall is angled relative to the prevailing fluid flow.

12. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of the preceding claims at least one opening in the sidewall is radially offset relative to the prevailing fluid flow.

13. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein at least one opening in the sidewall is angled toward or away from the lower end of the at least one tubular member.

14. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of the preceding claims further comprising at least one tubular extension portion extending at least partially into a fitting assembly used as a part of a cable mount, outside the external diameter of the fluid conduit with one or more openings are provided in the extension portion outside the external diameter of the fluid conduit.

15. A cable insertion tube as claimed in claim 14 wherein an annular space is provided between an outer side of the tubular member and the inner side of the fitting assembly.

16. A cable insertion tube as claimed in claim 14 or claim 15 wherein the at least one opening provided in the extension portion is angled relative to the prevailing fluid flow.

17. A cable insertion tube as claimed in any one of claims 14 to 16 wherein the at least one opening provided in the extension portion is radially offset relative to the flow direction.

Images