Pipe Clamp Assembly With Projections for Seismic Grip Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pipe clamps used in piping systems, such as fire sprinkler and HVAC systems, face issues with loosening due to dynamic loads and movement, leading to a loss of grip between the pipe and the clamp, especially during seismic events or structural settling.
Innovation Solution
A pipe clamp design featuring a pair of semi-cylindrical clamp segments with monolithic projections and a fastener system that securely engages the pipe, providing a circumferential row of projections to enhance grip and prevent longitudinal movement, coupled with a seismic brace assembly for structural support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional pipe clamp is used to engage the pipe, then the pipe can be initially supported, but the grip loosens over time due to movement and vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp segments are designed to be deformable, allowing them to dynamically adapt to pipe movement and vibration while maintaining engagement. The deformation capability enables the clamp to accommodate dynamic loads without loosening, resolving the contradiction between initial support and long-term grip stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp segments change their physical state from rigid to deformable under load, allowing them to conform to the pipe surface and maintain frictional engagement. This parameter change enables the clamp to sustain reliable grip over extended periods despite movement and vibration.
2Reliability
If friction riser clamps are used to support vertical piping, then the pipe can be supported, but performance varies due to manufacturing tolerances and pipe finishes
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp segments are designed to deform and conform to the actual pipe surface geometry, compensating for manufacturing tolerances and surface finish variations. This deformation capability allows consistent engagement performance across pipes with varying dimensional precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp segments develop localized contact points and deformation patterns that adapt to the specific pipe surface characteristics at the engagement location. This local adaptation ensures reliable support performance regardless of overall pipe manufacturing variations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a pipe clamp allows movement during seismic events, then the piping system can accommodate structural movement, but the grip between clamp and pipe loosens
Solution Approach 1:
The deformable clamp segments dynamically respond to seismic movements by deforming and re-engaging with the pipe, maintaining connection reliability while accommodating structural movement. The dynamic deformation allows the clamp to follow pipe displacement without losing grip.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp segments are pre-designed with deformation capacity to cushion and absorb the effects of seismic movements before they can cause grip loosening. This prior cushioning capability protects the clamp-to-pipe connection during dynamic events.
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 enhanced grip and secure attachment of the pipe clamp to the pipe improve stability and prevent loosening during dynamic events, ensuring the piping system's integrity and safety by maintaining a consistent connection between the pipe and the clamp.
Implementation Method 1
a fastener coupling the first clamp segment to the second clamp segment
Implementation Method 2
the plurality of projections configured to engage the pipe extending through the void
Data Source
AI summary
Example aspects of a pipe clamp assembly can comprise a pipe clamp comprising a first clamp segment and a second clamp segment, the first clamp segment defining an inner surface, a first end, and a second end, the second clamp segment defining an inner surface, a first end, and a second end; a projection extending from the inner surface of the first clamp segment, the projection defining a linear top edge configured to engage a pipe, the linear top edge oriented distal to the inner surface of the first clamp segment; and a support flange coupled to the pipe clamp proximate to the first end of the first clamp segment and the first end of the second clamp segment, the support flange configured to support the pipe clamp assembly on a support surface.