Sealed Transverse Locking Pipe Joint to Reduce HVAC Air Leakage
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Solution Overview
Problem
HVAC systems face inefficiencies due to air leakage through steel-to-steel joints in ductwork and pipe connections, with existing solutions like tapes, mastics, and butyl gaskets being labor-intensive, time-consuming, or prone to degradation.
Innovation Solution
A pipe and fitting coupling system featuring a shaped sheet metal receiving end with axial flanges and a groove, where a sealant is placed in the groove to create a substantially airtight seal, allowing for easy alignment and secure connection of pipes without the need for duct tape or mastic, using a snap or button lock for additional security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If tapes or mastics are applied over seams to reduce air loss, then air leakage is reduced, but labor intensity and cure time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sealant is pre-applied to the receiving end groove during manufacturing, so that when pipes are joined, the sealing action occurs immediately without requiring separate application steps or cure time. The receiving end is pre-formed with the groove structure, and the sealant is already in position to seal the joint as soon as the plain end is inserted.
2Loss of energy
If butyl gasket is injected or pressed into seam to reduce air loss, then air leakage is reduced, but curing time increases and reliability decreases due to breakdown over time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the material parameters by using a foam sealant that expands upon contact with moisture or air, creating a durable, flexible seal that accommodates thermal expansion and contraction. The foam structure provides long-term reliability by maintaining sealing pressure without breaking down, unlike butyl gaskets that degrade over time.
3Ease of manufacture
If steel-to-steel joints are used in ductwork, then manufacturing is simple, but air leakage occurs through seams
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a foam sealant as an intermediary material between the two steel pipe ends. The sealant is applied in the groove of the receiving end, and when the plain end is inserted, the foam expands to fill any gaps and create an airtight seal, mediating between the rigid steel components to prevent air leakage while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
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 significantly reduces air leakage, speeds up HVAC system installation, and lowers costs by eliminating the need for duct tape and mastic, while providing a durable and efficient sealing mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
The sealant is disposed in the axial groove to seal the plain end in the receiving end
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe and fitting coupling system includes a first pipe, a second pipe, and a joint. A receiving end of the second pipe includes a first flange, a second flange, a groove, and a sealant. The second flange extends further than the first flange. The groove is disposed at the pipe diameter and between the first flange and the second flange. The first flange has an inwardly angled face to meet the groove and the second flange has an outwardly angled face to meet the groove. The sealant is disposed in the groove to seal the plain end of the first pipe in the receiving end. The joint is formed by the cooperative alignment of the plain end being inserted into the receiving end and being sealed by the sealant.