Pipe Joint Gland Assembly With Self-Adjusting Restraint
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Mechanical joint pipe connections lack a positive retention mechanism, leading to potential seal compromise and pipe deformation or cracking under high tension forces, such as water hammer, resulting in leaks or environmental contamination.
Innovation Solution
A gland assembly with a joint restraint assembly that includes a restraint base, a cover with a bolt stop portion, and a deactivation mechanism to prevent gripper engagement, allowing for secure pipe connection without exerting high stresses on the pipe end, enabling self-adjustment to variations in pipe diameter and angular deflection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a joint restraint mechanism is incorporated to provide positive retention, then the connection reliability is improved, but high stresses are exerted on the pipe end leading to deformation and cracking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a joint restraint mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the gland and the pipe end. This mechanism includes a restraint body with engagement features that interface with the pipe end, and a actuator that applies retention force. The intermediary structure distributes the retention force through multiple engagement points (such as teeth or lugs) rather than concentrating stress at a single point, thereby providing positive retention while minimizing deformation and cracking of the pipe end.
2Strength
If a positive retention mechanism is added to prevent pipe pullout, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the joint restraint mechanism with the existing gland assembly. The restraint body is integrated into the gland structure, sharing common components such as the bolt circle and mounting features. This integration allows the restraint function to be added without proportionally increasing overall device complexity, as the restraint mechanism utilizes the same fastening and mounting infrastructure already present in the mechanical joint connection.
3Reliability
If existing joint restraint mechanisms are used to mechanically engage the pipe end, then positive retention is achieved, but installation and operation become more difficult due to high stresses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic joint restraint mechanism where the actuator can transition between engaged and disengaged states. During installation, the actuator is in a disengaged or partially engaged state, allowing the pipe end to be inserted freely into the gland without resistance. After installation, the actuator is activated to provide the necessary retention force. This dynamic operation eliminates installation difficulties while maintaining positive retention during service.
Data Source
AI summary
A gland assembly includes a gland including an annular ring defining a fastener hole; and a joint restraint assembly comprising a restraint base, the restraint base attached to the annular ring; and a cover including a cover portion removably attached to the restraint base; and a bolt stop portion covering the fastener hole, the bolt stop portion extending laterally outward from the cover portion.