Embedded Elastomer Thread Sealing for Plastic Fittings
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for sealing plastic fittings require additional sealing materials post-assembly, which are time-consuming and prone to errors, and may lead to leaks upon disassembly.
Innovation Solution
A two-stage injection molding process is used to embed elastomer sealing material directly on the threads of the fitting during production, combining it with a supportive thread design to ensure optimal sealing without additional application.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sealing material is applied during installation, then sealing function is achieved, but installation time increases and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing material is pre-applied to the threads during the injection molding process before the fitting is installed. This preliminary action eliminates the need for manual sealing material application during installation, reducing installation time while ensuring consistent sealing quality through automated manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing material application process is merged with the injection molding process. Both operations are combined into a single automated manufacturing step, where the sealing material is injected directly onto the threads as part of the fitting production, eliminating separate sealing material application steps during installation.
2Reliability
If sealing material is applied during installation, then sealing is achieved, but sealing quality is prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The injection molding machine performs the sealing material application automatically as part of its own operation. The system uses its existing injection mechanism to deposit the sealing material precisely on the threads without requiring separate manual operations, ensuring consistent quality through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing material is applied in advance during manufacturing with precise control over placement and quantity. This preliminary, controlled application ensures proper sealing material positioning and amount, eliminating the variability and errors associated with manual application during installation.
3Reliability
If sealing material is used, then thread sealing is achieved, but additional materials and steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing material application is merged with the injection molding process. The same injection mechanism that forms the fitting also deposits the sealing material on the threads, combining two operations into one integrated manufacturing process and eliminating the need for separate sealing material application steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The injection molding machine performs multiple functions: it forms the fitting body and simultaneously applies the sealing material to the threads. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated sealing material application equipment or manual operations.
4Adaptability or versatility
If fittings are disassembled, then reuse is possible, but sealing material must be replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing material is pre-applied during manufacturing in a manner that ensures it remains effective after disassembly. The embedded sealing material in the thread structure maintains its sealing capability, allowing fittings to be disassembled and reassembled without requiring replacement of the sealing material.
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 embedded elastomer material ensures consistent sealing without increasing assembly torque, preventing leaks and eliminating the need for reapplication during disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
the Elastomer sealing material is added on the threads and is adhered to the body by the heat of the melted Elastomer sealing material
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention is a method of sealing threaded connections of plastic fittings with other plastic fittings, or with fittings of any other materials, in order to ensure a non-leaking connection without applying any additional sealing means. This is achieved through the incorporation of an elastomer sealing material on the threads of one of the plastic fittings during its production process, using a two stage injection moulding method.