Segmented Pipe Clamp Assembly for Seismic Grip Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pipe clamps used in piping systems, such as fire sprinkler and HVAC systems, face issues with loosening due to dynamic loads and vibrations, leading to a loss of grip between the clamp and the pipe, especially during seismic events or structural movements.
Innovation Solution
A pipe clamp design featuring a pair of semi-cylindrical clamp segments with monolithically formed projections and a fastener assembly that securely engages the pipe, providing a cylindrical void for the pipe to pass through and enhancing grip through circumferentially arranged projections, along with a seismic brace assembly for structural support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional pipe clamp is used to engage the pipe, then the pipe can be initially supported, but the grip between the pipe clamp and the pipe loosens over time due to movement and vibration
Solution Approach 1:
The pipe clamp is divided into two separate clamp segments that can independently engage the pipe. Each segment has its own projection that contacts the pipe surface, allowing distributed engagement that reduces loosening from vibration and movement while maintaining consistent grip over time
Solution Approach 2:
The projections on the clamp segments are designed to initially engage the pipe surface at multiple points before full tightening occurs. This preliminary engagement prevents initial slippage and ensures proper positioning, which maintains grip consistency throughout the service life of the connection
2Adaptability or versatility
If the pipe moves relative to the pipe clamp during seismic events, then the pipe clamp can accommodate structural movement, but the grip between the pipe clamp and the pipe loosens
Solution Approach 1:
The two-clamp-segment design allows each segment to independently accommodate movement while maintaining engagement. The segments can flex and adjust separately during seismic events, distributing the movement stress and preventing grip loosening that would occur in a rigid single-piece clamp
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp segments are designed with dynamic engagement characteristics where the projections can maintain contact with the pipe during relative movement. This dynamic design allows the clamp to adapt to seismic displacement while preserving grip consistency through the distributed projection contact points
3Ease of operation
If friction riser clamps are used to support vertical piping, then the pipe can be supported, but performance varies due to pipe manufacturing tolerances, finishes, and bolt torque variations
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented clamp design with multiple projections distributes the gripping force across several contact points on the pipe surface. This distribution compensates for variations in pipe manufacturing tolerances and surface finishes, ensuring consistent support performance across different installation scenarios without requiring precise torque control
Solution Approach 2:
The projections are strategically positioned to engage specific local regions on the pipe surface that are less affected by manufacturing variations and coating inconsistencies. This localized engagement strategy ensures reliable support performance regardless of overall pipe quality variations
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe clamp assembly includes a pipe clamp comprising a first clamp segment and a second clamp segment, the first clamp segment defining an inner surface, a first end, and a second end, the second clamp segment defining an inner surface, a first end, and a second end, the inner surfaces of the first and second clamp segments defining a void extending through the pipe clamp; and a support flange coupled to the pipe clamp between the first end of the first clamp segment and the first end of the second clamp segment, the support flange substantially perpendicular to the void and configured to support the pipe clamp assembly on a support surface; wherein the void is configured to align with a pipe opening formed in the support surface.