Segmented Grip Ring for Pipe Fitting Locking Reliability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grip rings for mechanical pipe fitting devices often loosen over time, failing to maintain a secure lock on pipes under high temperatures and pressures, particularly in applications with liquids and volatile chemicals.
Innovation Solution
A grip ring design featuring a conical external surface and segmented gripping teeth with alternating uniform and segmented gripping teeth, which compresses inwardly to enhance the grip on pipes, utilizing materials harder than the pipes themselves, ensuring a secure lock even under pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional grip ring with annular saw teeth is used, then the pipe can be locked in position, but the grip ring may loosen up during the lifespan of the fitting device
Solution Approach 1:
The grip ring is divided into multiple segmented gripping teeth instead of a continuous annular structure. Each segment can independently compress and conform to the pipe surface, distributing the locking force more evenly and preventing the grip ring from loosening over time. The segments are connected by material that allows controlled deformation while maintaining grip force.
Solution Approach 2:
The grip ring transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one where the segmented teeth can compress inwardly in response to axial loads. This dynamic compression mechanism allows the grip ring to adapt to pipe surface variations and maintain consistent gripping force throughout the service life, preventing loosening under thermal and pressure cycling.
2Force
If the grip ring uses a conventional saw teeth mechanism, then the pipe can be locked, but the locking force decreases when the pipe attempts to move outward
Solution Approach 1:
The grip ring combines hard gripping tooth surfaces for penetration and locking with a softer, more compliant body material that allows compression. This composite structure enables the teeth to embed into the pipe surface under outward force attempts, increasing friction and mechanical interlocking, while the softer body accommodates the deformation needed for effective compression.
3Force
If the grip ring compresses inwardly to enhance grip, then the locking force increases, but the structural integrity of the grip ring may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the grip ring into segments allows each section to compress independently without creating excessive stress concentrations that would compromise overall structural integrity. The segmented design distributes mechanical stresses more evenly throughout the structure during compression, preventing failure while maintaining enhanced gripping force.
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 grip ring effectively locks pipes in position by compressing the segmented teeth inwardly, embedding them into the pipe surface, providing a strong and durable seal that resists outward forces, ensuring no leaks over extended periods.
Implementation Method 1
The grip ring effectively locks pipes in position by compressing the segmented teeth inwardly, embedding them into the pipe surface, providing a strong and durable seal that resists outward forces
Data Source
AI summary
Grip rings for pipe push-fit fitting devices, having an annular structure with an external surface which has a conical and curved like structure. On the inner surface of the grip ring two types of annular gripping teeth are placed. The annular grip ring is radially deformable and is a split type.