Resilient Pipe Clamp Structure for Insulation Moisture Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Insulated pipes are prone to corrosion and deterioration due to moisture accumulation from condensation, which is hidden by the outer insulation casing, leading to unnoticed damage and potential failure.
Innovation Solution
A pipe clamp with a continuously extending, circularly shaped resilient strip featuring outwardly extending nub members and intervening pipe gripping sections, which creates a vapor barrier between the insulation and the pipe surface, preventing moisture absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If insulation is placed directly on the pipe surface, then insulation effectiveness is improved, but moisture absorption and pipe deterioration occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary vapor barrier layer between the pipe surface and the insulation material. This vapor barrier prevents moisture from the pipe surface from being absorbed by the insulation, while still allowing the insulation to perform its thermal function. The vapor barrier acts as a mediator that blocks the harmful moisture transfer path without compromising insulation effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a thin film vapor barrier that conforms to the pipe surface and insulation shape. This flexible thin film effectively blocks moisture migration while maintaining the structural integrity and thermal performance of the insulation system. The thin film nature allows it to be easily installed and adapted to various pipe configurations.
2Strength
If metal covering is used on insulation, then insulation strength is improved, but underlying pipe deterioration becomes hidden
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a visual indication mechanism that changes color or provides visual feedback when moisture is detected between the insulation and pipe surface. This allows the outer metal covering to maintain its protective and structural functions while the visual indicator system enables early detection of moisture-related issues before they cause significant damage.
3Ease of manufacture
If insulation is allowed to contact pipe surface, then installation simplicity is improved, but condensation absorption and rotting occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the vapor barrier to the pipe surface before installing the insulation material. This preliminary action prevents moisture from reaching the insulation during subsequent operation, eliminating the need for complex moisture management systems while maintaining installation simplicity. The vapor barrier is installed once during the initial insulation installation process.
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
Prevents moisture buildup and subsequent corrosion or rotting of the pipe by maintaining an air gap between the insulation and the pipe surface, thereby extending the lifespan of insulated pipes.
Implementation Method 1
a continuously extending, circularly shaped resilient strip... by means of the spring like nature of the strip
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe clamp has a continuously extending, circularly shaped resilient strip comprising a plurality of outwardly extending nub members. Each of the nub members is separated from each adjacent nub member by intervening pipe gripping sections. The clamp is configured to circumscribe and be compelled against the surface of the pipe by means of the spring like nature of the strip and attached to the pipe by end clips. When pipe insulation encircles the pipe and is positioned on the nub members, the pipe insulation is in spaced relation to the pipe surface and a vapor barrier is formed between the insulation and pipe surface. As insulation is never in contact with the surfaces of the pipe, any “pipe sweat” will not be absorbed by the insulation.