Pipe Manipulation Apparatus for Plastic-Lined Metal Pipe Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thin-walled metal pipes are difficult to connect reliably and efficiently due to internal corrosion and abrasion issues, which can shorten their lifespan, and existing methods for repairing or constructing pipeline systems are complex and costly.
Innovation Solution
A pipe manipulation apparatus with a base frame and sliding end, equipped with pipe supports and press clamps, allows for the secure connection and formation of pipe ends through a method involving the use of electrofusion assemblies and swages, enabling the connection of plastic-lined metal pipes with mechanical engagement and electrofusion processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If thin-walled metal pipes are used, then material costs are reduced and handling is facilitated, but connection reliability deteriorates due to internal corrosion and abrasion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining metal pipe structure with plastic lining material. The plastic liner provides corrosion and abrasion resistance while the metal structure provides mechanical strength. This composite construction resolves the contradiction by protecting the thin-walled metal pipe from internal corrosion and abrasion, thereby maintaining connection reliability while preserving the cost and handling advantages of thin-walled construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The plastic liner acts as an intermediary layer between the corrosive/abradive fluid and the metal pipe wall. This intermediate protective layer prevents direct contact between harmful substances and the metal, solving the corrosion and abrasion problems while allowing the thin-walled metal structure to maintain its reliability for connections.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional pipeline repair methods are used, then corroded or abraded pipelines can be repaired, but construction complexity and cost increase due to multiple separate construction processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple construction processes into a single integrated system. The apparatus combines pipe support, alignment, connection, and electrofusion operations into one unified device. This allows pipeline construction or repair to be completed in a single process rather than requiring separate steps for metal pipeline construction, plastic pipeline construction, and insertion, thereby simplifying construction while maintaining ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe manipulation apparatus is designed with multi-functionality, serving as both a support structure and a connection device. The same apparatus that positions and supports the pipes also provides the electrofusion assembly for making connections. This universal design reduces construction complexity by eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices for different construction stages.
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 apparatus facilitates reliable and efficient connection of pipes, reducing material costs and extending the lifespan of pipeline systems by providing a robust and corrosion-resistant solution for forming pipe ends and connections.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus can be used for preparing a pipe for subsequent connection and for connecting pipes
Implementation Method 2
a press clamp coupled to each of the at least one pipe support, the press clamp having a first side, a second side, and a clamp section
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe manipulation apparatus having a base frame and a sliding end slidable towards and away from the base frame, each of the base frame and sliding end having at least one pipe support coupled with a press clamp pivotable between an open position and a closed position, wherein in the open position, a pipe is placeable on to the at least one pipe support and, in the closed position, the inner surfaces of the press clamp and the pipe support define a bore in which a lengthwise portion of the pipe is receivable. The pipe manipulation apparatus may be portable, tiltable, and/or rotatable to accommodate pipes of various locations and angles.