Pipe Clamp Assembly With Split Seal for Axial Grip Across Diameters
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe couplings struggle to provide sufficient axial gripping force when coupling pipes of different diameters, especially under axial hydraulic forces, and existing solutions fail to accommodate such variations effectively.
Innovation Solution
A pipe coupling design featuring an annular seal, deformable members with grip elements, and a central band member that allows for axial deformation and enhanced gripping force, along with a split ring seal for accommodating different diameters without requiring pipe removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If nested layers of seals are used to accommodate different diameter pipes, then adaptability to different pipe diameters is improved, but axial gripping force is insufficient under hydraulic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The seal assembly is divided into multiple nested seal layers that can be independently selected and removed based on pipe diameter requirements. Each seal layer is a separate component that can be configured to match specific pipe sizes, providing adaptability while maintaining structural integrity for axial force resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assembly incorporates deformable members that can dynamically adjust their configuration based on the pipe diameter and applied hydraulic forces. The deformable elements flex and reshape under load to maintain optimal gripping force across varying pipe sizes and pressure conditions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If special couplings with nested seal layers are used for different diameter pipes, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly is designed as a universal coupling that can accommodate multiple pipe diameters through a standardized interface system. The deformable members and nested seal layers work together in a unified structure that provides multi-functionality without requiring multiple specialized couplings for different pipe sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple seal layers are nested within each other in a compact configuration, allowing smaller seals to be contained within larger ones. This nesting arrangement enables a single coupling assembly to handle various pipe diameters by selecting appropriate inner seal layers, reducing the need for multiple separate coupling devices.
3Reliability
If radial sealing forces are increased to prevent leakage, then sealing performance is improved, but axial gripping force remains insufficient under hydraulic forces
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp assembly merges radial sealing functions and axial gripping functions into a single integrated structure. The deformable members simultaneously provide radial compression for sealing and axial resistance for gripping, while the nested seal layers contribute to both radial sealing and axial force distribution, achieving both functions without separate mechanisms.
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 design provides increased axial gripping force and effective sealing for pipes of varying diameters, ensuring a secure connection even under hydraulic stress, and can be used for encapsulation pipe repairs without cutting or removing pipes.
Implementation Method 1
deformable members extending axially from a central band member... the deformable members form a split cylindrically shaped assembly... each of the distal ends is formed with a mounting provision for mounting thereon each of the grip elements
Implementation Method 2
The annular ring is placed around the outer circumference of each pipe and sealed so as to apply radially-inward forces on the outside of the pipe. These radially-inward forces work against hydraulic forces which are directed radially outwards against the annular ring. The radially-inward forces thus prevent liquid leaking past the seal.
Implementation Method 3
there are two clamp members and tightening elements configured to fasten and tighten the clamp members towards each other in a direction transverse to an axial length of the annular clamp housing so as to apply a radially-inward clamping force on pipes held at each end of the pipe coupling
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe coupling includes an annular seal disposed in an annular clamp housing that has two openings at opposite ends thereof with clamp members and tightening elements configured to apply a radially-inward clamping force on pipes held at each end of the pipe coupling. Deformable members are located radially inwards of the annular clamp housing, and extend axially from a central band member along the axial length of the annular clamp housing towards distal ends near or at each of the openings. Grip elements are located at the distal ends about an inner perimeter of each of the openings, and are configured to provide axial gripping forces on the pipes held at each end of the pipe coupling.