Cut-in Fitting for Pipe Runs Using Split Flange and Band Clamp
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inserting pipe fittings into existing pipe runs is a time-consuming process due to the need for substantial time to properly attach fittings, which disrupts plant operations and requires long down times.
Innovation Solution
A cut-in fitting kit comprising a flange hub, flange ring, central body, gaskets, split flange hub, split flange ring, and band clamp, allowing for quick attachment and assembly without cutting into the existing pipe, utilizing various materials like metal alloys and thermoplastics, and attachment methods such as welding and solvent welding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional attachment means are used to attach fittings to pipe within the pipe run, then the attachment is secure and reliable, but the operation becomes time-consuming and requires long down times
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is divided into multiple components: a body portion that attaches to the pipe run, and end portions that connect to new pipe sections. This segmentation allows the body to be attached to the existing pipe while the ends remain open for future connections, eliminating the need to wait for complete attachment of all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The body portion of the fitting is attached to the pipe run in advance, before the end portions are connected. This preliminary attachment allows the fitting to be in place and ready for service, while the remaining connections can be made later without affecting the already-installed portion.
2Reliability
If fittings are attached within the pipe run using traditional methods, then the connection is secure, but plant operations are adversely affected due to long down times
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is divided into multiple components: a body portion that attaches to the pipe run, and end portions that connect to new pipe sections. This segmentation allows the body to be attached to the existing pipe while the ends remain open for future connections, eliminating the need to wait for complete attachment of all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The body portion of the fitting is attached to the pipe run in advance, before the end portions are connected. This preliminary attachment allows the fitting to be in place and ready for service, while the remaining connections can be made later without affecting the already-installed portion.
3Device complexity
If a single-piece fitting design is used, then the structure is simple, but the installation requires cutting into the existing pipe and causes long downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The fitting is divided into multiple components: a body portion that attaches to the pipe run, and end portions that connect to new pipe sections. This segmentation allows the body to be attached to the existing pipe while the ends remain open for future connections, eliminating the need to wait for complete attachment of all components.
Solution Approach 2:
The body portion of the fitting is attached to the pipe run in advance, before the end portions are connected. This preliminary attachment allows the fitting to be in place and ready for service, while the remaining connections can be made later without affecting the already-installed portion.
Data Source
AI summary
A cut-in fitting has a flange hub, a flange ring, a central body, a first gasket, a second gasket, a split flange hub, a split flange ring and a band clamp.