Segmented Flange Gasket Sealing Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The production and assembly of large flat gaskets for flange connections in container and pipeline construction are complex and expensive due to the need for large machinery and complex transport, especially for dimensions like 3 m or 4 m, and existing solutions do not offer a cost-effective or efficient method for assembling these gaskets from individual parts.
Innovation Solution
A segmented support ring flat gasket design where segments are connected via form-fitting and adhesive connections, allowing for easy assembly and secure holding forces, simplifying production and shipping, and enabling manufacturing in various dimensions and materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If large flat gaskets are produced as single-piece components, then sealing performance is ensured, but production complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The support ring is divided into multiple segments that can be produced separately and then assembled together. Each segment can be manufactured using standard machining equipment, avoiding the need for large lathes. The segments are connected through form-fitting connections with adhesive bonding, creating a complete circular support ring that maintains sealing performance while reducing production complexity and cost.
2Strength
If large flat gaskets are produced as single-piece components, then structural integrity is maintained, but transport difficulty and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the support ring into smaller components, the flat gasket can be transported in a disassembled state, significantly reducing transport difficulty and cost. The segments are designed with form-fitting connections and adhesive bonding features that ensure proper reassembly and maintain structural integrity during installation.
3Ease of manufacture
If support ring segments are connected only by form-fitting connections, then assembly is simplified, but risk of detachment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system combines two bonding mechanisms: form-fitting mechanical connections and adhesive bonding. The form-fitting connections provide easy assembly and alignment, while the adhesive bonding (applied to the border/skirt) prevents detachment under load. This combination maintains assembly simplicity while significantly improving connection reliability.
4Device complexity
If segmented support ring design is used, then production cost and complexity are reduced, but assembly reliability must be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
The support ring is segmented to reduce production complexity and cost, allowing manufacturing with standard equipment and easier transport. The segmentation is designed with form-fitting connections and adhesive bonding features that ensure reliable assembly and maintain the structural integrity needed for sealing applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection system merges form-fitting mechanical connections with adhesive bonding to ensure assembly reliability. The form-fitting connections provide precise alignment and easy assembly, while the adhesive bonding prevents detachment under operational loads, ensuring the segmented design maintains the required sealing performance.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is a flat sealing for a flange connection for container and pipeline construction, comprising a support ring, which is provided for absorbing flange forces and which has an inner and/or outer border (2) made of an elastic substance as a sealing element for a force shunt in the flange connection, wherein the support ring (1) is closed in segments by contact-side force-form-fitting connections (3), and the circular arc surfaces (5) of the support ring segments (4) that face the border (2) bear radially projecting nubs (6) for adhesively attaching the border (2) which has corresponding cut-outs (7).