Segmented Pipe Repair Kit Radial Clamping Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pipe repair kits fail to provide effective sealing and long-lasting repairs at welded flanged joints due to uneven clamping pressure, leading to compromised sealing and potential further damage from localized stresses.
Innovation Solution
A segmented housing with flexible coupling elements and tensioning means that applies 360-degree clamping pressure, using multiple segments to distribute force evenly and reduce frictional abrasion, combined with sealing elements like O-rings for enhanced sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If two half-shells are clamped together using bolts, then the pipe joint is enclosed in a box-like container, but the clamping pressure is uneven with maximum pressure at 90 degrees to the fixing point and minimal pressure at the bolt locations
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into multiple segments (typically three or more) that can be independently positioned around the pipe joint. Each segment applies clamping force at multiple points, creating a more uniform pressure distribution around the circumference compared to traditional two-half-shell designs. This segmentation allows the sealing surface to receive consistent clamping pressure throughout the entire circumference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements different clamping mechanisms at different locations around the pipe joint. By positioning segments and bolts strategically, the design ensures that areas requiring higher sealing pressure (such as near the pipe surface) receive adequate force, while maintaining overall pressure balance. The local clamping pressure can be optimized for specific critical sealing zones.
2Force
If high clamping pressure is applied through bolts, then the seal point at 90 degrees to the fixing point is maximized, but substantial differences in clamping pressure occur at circumferential intervals causing compromised sealing
Solution Approach 1:
Dividing the housing into multiple segments distributed around the pipe joint allows clamping force to be applied at multiple locations simultaneously. This creates a more uniform pressure distribution pattern, preventing the extreme pressure variations that occur with traditional two-half-shell designs where pressure peaks at 90 degrees from bolt locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple clamping points and segments into a unified sealing system. By integrating several segments that each contribute to the overall clamping, the system achieves both high localized pressure where needed and uniform pressure distribution across the entire sealing surface, merging the benefits of focused and distributed force application.
3Loss of time
If conventional repair kits are used, then quick patch repair is achieved, but the repair has limited life and efficacy
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented housing design is pre-configured to provide optimal clamping pressure distribution from the outset, rather than relying on post-installation adjustments. The segments and bolt positions are designed in advance to ensure uniform pressure application, creating a repair that is both quick to install and durable in the long term.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent moves away from disposable quick-fix solutions by creating a reusable, durable segmented housing system. The design incorporates robust segments and sealing elements that can withstand repeated use and maintain their sealing effectiveness over extended periods, transforming the repair from a temporary patch to a long-lasting solution.
Data Source
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AI summary
A pipe repair kit (10), eg. for repairing leaks in fuel oil pipelines, especially welded flange joints (4) therein, comprises: a segmented housing (12) for receiving the pipe or pipe joint (4) to be repaired, the housing (12) comprising a plurality of, especially three, articulated segments (12a, 12b, 12c) for placement around the pipe or pipe joint (4); securement means (40, 42, 44), eg. in the form of a flexible coupling such as a linking plate (40), for flexibly securing the articulated segments (12a, 12b, 12c) of the housing (12) together around the pipe or pipe joint (4) once they have been draped or placed therearound; and tensioning means (30) for surrounding the secured segmented housing (12) and clamping the segments (12a, 12b, 12c) thereof into clamping and sealing relationship with the pipe or pipe joint (4). The tensioning means preferably comprise one or more tensioning elements (30), eg. single- or multi-strand metal wires, each of which is shortenable in situ and thus tightenable around the housing segments (12a, 12b, 12c), by means of a respective turn buckle (60, 62, 64) or similar-acting tightening device. Thus, as the segmented housing (12) is clamped into place around the pipe or pipe joint (4) by the tensioning (by operation of the turn buckles (60)) of the tensioning wires (30), each of the segments (12a, 12b, 12c) exerts its clamping force principally, or predominantly, generally substantially radially inwardly of the pipe or pipe joint (4), in the manner of a wedge.