Pipe Fitting Sealing Member Decoupled from Pressure Forces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe fittings face challenges in maintaining a long-term seal and withstanding axial forces for at least 50 years, especially when the pipe diameter exceeds 300 mm, as the sealing member is overstressed due to high pressure, leading to potential failure in maintaining its physical properties.
Innovation Solution
The sealing member is connected directly to the sleeve without being positioned between the pressure member and the sleeve, ensuring a closed seal independent of pressure member pressure, with opposite extremities attached to the pressure member and sleeve, and a clip for easy mounting and dismounting, reducing stress on the sealing member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the sealing member is positioned between the pressure member and the sleeve to provide seal, then the sealing function is achieved, but the sealing member is overstressed when pipe diameter exceeds 300 mm, leading to potential failure in maintaining physical properties over 50 years
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is divided into two independent sealing members: a first sealing member between the pressure member and pipe, and a second sealing member between the sleeve and pipe. This segmentation allows each sealing member to be optimized for its specific location and stress conditions, preventing overload on any single sealing element.
Solution Approach 2:
The second sealing member acts as an intermediary element between the sleeve and pipe, providing a dedicated sealing interface that is not directly subjected to the high pressures applied by the pressure member. This intermediary sealing arrangement protects the sealing function from the full stress of the pressure application mechanism.
2Force
If high pressure is applied to the sealing member between pressure member and sleeve to withstand axial forces, then the fitting can resist axial loads, but the sealing member is overstressed and cannot survive long-term
Solution Approach 1:
The force transmission and sealing functions are segmented into separate components. The pressure member and its gripper teeth handle the axial force transmission to the pipe, while the second sealing member provides sealing without being directly in the force transmission path. This segmentation allows high axial forces to be withstood without overstressing the sealing members.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing function is extracted from the pressure application mechanism. The second sealing member provides sealing between the sleeve and pipe independently of the pressure member's force application, separating the sealing function from the high-stress force transmission path and enabling long-term durability.
3Reliability
If the sealing member is positioned between pressure member and sleeve, then seal is provided, but the sealing property becomes linked to pressure member pressure, affecting long-term reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing system is segmented into two independent sealing members with different functions. The first sealing member handles sealing at the pressure member interface, while the second sealing member handles sealing at the sleeve interface. This segmentation decouples the sealing function from the pressure member's pressure application, allowing the second sealing member to maintain sealing properties independently of pressure fluctuations over time.
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
This configuration ensures a long-lasting seal and longevity of the fitting by decoupling the sealing member's lifespan from pressure member pressure, maintaining sealing integrity even with larger diameters and simplifying installation and removal processes.
Implementation Method 1
at least one sealing member to provide a seal between the sleeve and the pipe
Implementation Method 2
a pressure member for applying a pressure to the sleeve and to the pipe
Implementation Method 3
gripper teeth provided on the pressure member and arranged to act on the pipe
Implementation Method 4
actuation means for exerting a pressure to the pressure member comprising a pressure ring acting on the pressure member through adjoining slanting contacting surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A fitting for coupling to a pipe includes a sleeve for receiving the pipe and a sealing member to provide a seal between the sleeve and the pipe. A pressure ring acts on a pressure member through adjoining slanting contacting surfaces of the pressure ring and pressure member, respectively. The sealing member is configured to be displaced from the slanting contact surfaces to preserve the life of the seal.