Conductive Pipe Holding Flange with Flexible Pads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for holding electrically conductive pipes on conductive structures face issues such as additional installation steps for electrical connections, corrosion due to galvanic couples, and reduced conductivity from particle accumulation, especially in corrosive and humid environments.
Innovation Solution
A holding device with a flange configuration that integrates flexible electrically conductive pads and movable pushers for simultaneous pipe fixation and electrical connection, using compressible materials like silicone for pads and rigid materials like aluminum or titanium for pushers, which allows for movement and prevents damage, while maintaining reliable electrical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate electrical connection means (collars and metal braids) are used to connect pipes to structures, then electrical conductivity is achieved, but installation complexity increases and installation time is extended
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the holding function and electrical connection function into a single integrated flange assembly. The fixing half-flange and retaining half-flange together form both the mechanical holding structure and the electrical connection path, eliminating the need for separate collars and metal braids. This merging reduces installation steps while maintaining reliable electrical conductivity between the pipe and structure.
2Reliability
If rigid cradles made of aluminum are used for electrical connection, then electrical conductivity is achieved, but galvanic corrosion occurs when contacting steel or titanium pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter of the electrical connection elements from aluminum (which causes galvanic corrosion) to copper or copper alloy (which has better galvanic compatibility with steel and titanium pipes). This material substitution maintains electrical conductivity while preventing galvanic corrosion in the pipe-flange connection interface.
3Reliability
If protective anti-corrosion paint is removed from pipes for electrical contact, then electrical conductivity is achieved, but corrosion resistance is reduced in corrosive environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a copper or copper alloy cradle as an intermediary element between the pipe and the aluminum fixing half-flange. This intermediary provides the necessary electrical conductivity while the copper material offers better galvanic compatibility with the pipe material, eliminating the need to remove protective paint and preventing direct galvanic coupling that would cause corrosion.
4Reliability
If fixed electrical connection means are used, then electrical connection is established, but pipe movement causes damage to the pipe and holding device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring element in the electrical connection means that provides elastic compliance. The spring allows the electrical connection to dynamically adjust to pipe movements while maintaining continuous electrical contact. This dynamic characteristic enables the system to accommodate thermal expansion, contraction, and other movements without damaging the pipe or holding device, while ensuring reliable electrical conductivity throughout operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables a single-step installation of both fixation and electrical connection, prevents corrosion, and maintains effective electrical conductivity even in challenging environments by using flexible pads and movable pushers, ensuring reliable and long-lasting contact.
Implementation Method 1
at least one pad (7), each made of a flexible electrically conductive material, each filling the hollow (32) or one of the hollows (32) of the fixing half-flange (3), and each configured to cooperate electrically with the pipe or with one of the pipes
Implementation Method 2
The pads (7) are made of a compressible material and/or of silicone
Implementation Method 3
at least one pusher (8), each made of an electrically conductive material, each configured to cooperate electrically with the structure (S) as well as with the pad (7) or one of the pads (7) of the fixing half-flange (3)
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (1) for holding at least one electrically conductive pipe on an electrically conductive structure (S) with an electrical connection between such structure (S) and at least one such pipe. This holding device (1) comprises a retaining half-flange (4) and a fixing half-flange (3), to be fixed to the structure (S), to be assembled with the retaining half-flange (4), and comprising electrical connection means (6) for electrically linking the structure (S) and the pipe(s).This retaining device is characterized in that the electrical connection means (6) comprise, on the one hand, at least one pad (7), made of a flexible electrically conductive material, lining the fixing half-flange (3), and configured to cooperate electrically with the pipe or with one of the pipes and, on the other hand, at least one pusher (8), made of an electrically conductive material, configured to cooperate electrically with the structure (S) as well as with the pad (7) or one of the pads (7) of the fixing half-flange (3), movable in movement between a deployed position outside the fixing half-flange (3) and a retracted position inside this fixing half-flange (3).