Plastic-Metal Pipe Seal via Radial Compression
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for connecting tubular ends and fittings face challenges such as the need for additional sealing elements, which can lead to unintended leaks, increased complexity in assembly, and pressure loss due to cross-sectional constrictions, especially when dealing with different mediums like gas and water, requiring different sealing elements and fittings.
Innovation Solution
A system where a tubular fitting body with a plastic outer peripheral surface is used to create a tight contact with a metal inner peripheral surface of the tubular end, eliminating the need for additional sealing elements by using a plastic support portion that is adapted for insertion, allowing for a direct and secure seal through radial compression, and optionally incorporating a metal second fitting body for enhanced stability and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sealing elements such as O-rings are used to seal metal tubular ends, then sealing capability is improved, but assembly complexity and risk of unintended leaks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the sealing element from the connection system. Instead of using separate O-rings or sealing components, the plastic support portion itself forms the sealing interface directly with the metal tubular end through radial compression, removing the need for additional sealing elements and simplifying assembly
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the structural support function and sealing function into a single integrated component. The plastic support portion simultaneously provides mechanical support and creates the sealing interface with the metal tubular end, eliminating the need for separate sealing elements
2Reliability
If sealing elements are used in internal sealing fittings, then sealing is achieved, but cross-sectional constrictions are formed causing pressure loss
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes sealing elements from the internal flow path. The sealing interface is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the support portion and the inner peripheral surface of the tubular end, keeping the internal cross-section open and free of constrictions that would cause pressure loss
3Loss of energy
If externally sealing systems are used, then cross-sectional constrictions are avoided, but the fitting builds up too far outside and medium contact with outer surface increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention inverts the sealing approach by using internal sealing rather than external sealing. The sealing interface is created inside the tubular end where the plastic support portion contacts the metal inner surface, avoiding external buildup while maintaining compact dimensions
4Reliability
If different sealing elements are used for gas and water applications, then medium-specific sealing requirements are met, but device complexity and assembly care increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a universal sealing solution that works for both gas and water applications. The plastic support portion with its specific material properties and radial compression mechanism provides reliable sealing for different mediums without requiring different sealing elements or fitting variants
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 approach provides a compact, easy-to-handle, and reliable sealing system that maintains tightness without additional sealing rings, reduces cross-sectional reductions, and allows for the use of metal pipes, preventing medium penetration between layers in composite pipes, while being suitable for both gas and water applications.
Implementation Method 1
to bring about a radially inward compression of the tubular end (18), wherein the composed of plastic outer peripheral surface (30) of the first support portion (8) and the metal-made inner peripheral surface (18a) of the tubular end (18) are, by this radially inward compression, at least partially in tight contact with each other
Data Source
AI summary
A system for producing a tight connection with a tubular end (18) and with a fitting (2) and a tight connection produced with the system, wherein the fitting (2) has at least a first tubular fitting body (6) with a first support section (8) for insertion into the tubular end (18), wherein the first support section (8) is at least partially made of plastic on its outer circumferential surface (30), wherein the inner circumferential surface (18a) of the tubular end (18) is at least partially made of metal, and wherein the outer circumferential surface (30) of the first support section (8) made of plastic and the inner circumferential surface (18a) of the tubular end (18) made of metal are to be brought into tight contact with each other at least section by section.