Thermoplastic Pipe Joining Material with Bonding Agent
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piping systems, particularly those made of thermoplastic materials like PVC and CPVC, face challenges in reliable and efficient joining methods that withstand mechanical and hydraulic stresses, making repairs to leaks time-consuming and costly due to the complexity of accessing and rejoining components.
Innovation Solution
A pipe joining material comprising a thermoplastic material, such as PVC or CPVC, combined with a bonding agent like polyamide, which is formulated to be solid at ambient temperatures and fluid at application temperatures, allowing for easy application and forming into a cylindrical shape, and a method involving mixing the thermoplastic with the bonding agent, heating, and shaping to create a pipe joining material that can be used to connect pipes and fittings effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If traditional cement joining methods are used for thermoplastic pipes, then the joining process can be performed at ambient conditions, but the repair time and complexity increase significantly when leaks occur in installed systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by heating the pipe and fitting surfaces to elevated temperatures (typically 100-200°C) before applying the joining material. This temperature parameter change transforms the thermoplastic surfaces into a more receptive state that allows rapid bonding, thereby reducing repair time while maintaining process simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining thermoplastic materials (PVC or CPVC) with bonding agents to create a joining material that integrates both the structural properties of the pipe material and the adhesive properties of the bonding agent. This composite approach enables effective bonding at elevated temperatures while simplifying the repair process
2Reliability
If pipe surfaces are softened and made semi-fluid for joining, then reliable sealing can be achieved, but the joining process requires precise timing and conditions that increase operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter changes by controlling the temperature parameter to transform the physical state of the thermoplastic surfaces. Heating to specific temperature ranges softens the surfaces to a semi-fluid state that ensures reliable sealing, while the standardized temperature protocol simplifies the operational process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes phase transitions by heating the thermoplastic pipe and fitting surfaces through their glass transition or melting ranges, transforming them from a rigid state to a softened semi-fluid state. This phase transition enables reliable material flow and bonding, while the reversible nature of the transition allows for controlled application and rapid setting
3Strength
If sufficient bonding agent is applied to fill gaps between surfaces, then strong connections are achieved, but excess material creates waste and increases material costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the temperature and viscosity parameters of the bonding agent. At elevated temperatures, the bonding agent maintains optimal viscosity that allows it to fill gaps effectively without excessive flow, thereby achieving strong connections while minimizing material waste
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes hydraulic principles by applying the bonding agent in a controlled manner that allows it to flow into and fill the gap between the pipe and fitting surfaces under its own viscosity-driven flow. The thermoplastic material itself acts as a carrier that delivers the bonding agent precisely where needed, eliminating the need for excessive application
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 solution provides a durable and efficient method for connecting pipes and fittings, enhancing the reliability of piping systems by ensuring a strong seal and easy repair, reducing the time and cost associated with maintenance and maintenance access.
Implementation Method 1
heating the mixture to a forming temperature and shaping the mixture at the forming temperature
Implementation Method 2
the joining surfaces should be softened and made semi-fluid
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe joining material for connecting pipes and fittings and a method of making a pipe joining material are provided. The pipe joining material may include a thermoplastic material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and/or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) and a bonding agent for the thermoplastic material.