Adjustable Pipe-End Clamping for Large Welded Pipe Transport
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for producing large-diameter longitudinally welded pipe sections are inefficient due to the time-consuming process of attaching and removing auxiliary connectors, which are necessary for safe transport and can cause structural changes in the pipe material, leading to reduced productivity and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A clamping device with adjustable clamping jaws and a connecting rod, featuring a structured surface for secure grip and adjustable inclination, allows for temporary connection of pipe ends without welding, enabling safe handling and reducing the need for auxiliary connectors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If auxiliary connectors are welded to pipe sections for safe transport, then transport safety is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to time-consuming attachment and removal processes
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the connection function from permanent welded auxiliary connectors and implements it through a removable clamping device. The clamping device can be quickly attached and detached without welding, eliminating the time-consuming processes while maintaining transport safety through reliable clamping action.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the connection method from permanent (welded) to temporary (clamped), and from complex (auxiliary connectors requiring welding) to simple (direct clamping). This parameter change in the connection approach enables rapid deployment and removal, significantly improving productivity while ensuring transport safety.
2Reliability
If auxiliary connectors are welded to pipe sections, then structural safety is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases due to additional welding operations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the welding-based mechanical connection system with a clamping-based mechanical system. Instead of welding auxiliary connectors to the pipe, the clamping device directly grips the pipe section through adjustable clamping jaws, eliminating all welding operations and associated complexity while maintaining structural safety during transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the connection function from the welded auxiliary connector system and implements it through a standalone clamping device that requires no welding. This separation of the connection function from the welding process eliminates manufacturing complexity while preserving structural safety.
3Reliability
If auxiliary connectors are welded to pipe sections, then transport safety is improved, but production costs increase due to reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the production parameter from welded connections to clamped connections, which can be rapidly attached and removed without specialized welding equipment or processes. This parameter change reduces production time and costs while maintaining transport safety through the reliable clamping mechanism with distributed contact surfaces.
4Reliability
If clamping force is increased to secure pipe sections, then connection reliability is improved, but risk of damaging pipe material increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality by distributing the clamping force across multiple clamping jaws with structured contact surfaces that grip specific local areas of the pipe section. This localized distribution of clamping force secures the connection reliably while preventing concentration of stress that could damage the pipe material.
Solution Approach 2:
The structured contact surfaces on the clamping jaws provide a flexible gripping interface that adapts to the pipe surface while distributing clamping force. This flexible contact approach ensures reliable connection through increased friction and distributed pressure, preventing material damage.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a clamping device for the temporary connection of two ends of a large-diameter pipe section with at least two connecting devices and a rigid connecting rod, wherein the connecting devices are arranged at the ends of the connecting rod. The clamping device according to the invention is used for connecting and securing the plate ends of large-diameter pipes and large-diameter pipe sections with a pipe diameter of 4.5 m to 10 m, preferably 6 m to 10 m. Unlike known tack welds or auxiliary connectors (clamps), the clamping device according to the invention is mobile, reusable, and variably applicable. It can be quickly and securely mounted on pipe sections of various diameters to relieve stress on the tack weld and, in the event of tack weld failure, to replace it.