Split V-Shaped Clamp Ring for Pipe Joint Axial Restraint
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe joint assemblies face challenges in maintaining axial restraint and seal integrity, especially under pressurization conditions, and often require factory-applied weld beads, which are difficult to implement in site conditions due to equipment and expertise requirements.
Innovation Solution
A clamp ring assembly designed in two halves with 'V' shaped recesses and lever arms, utilizing pins for alignment and clamping bolts for axial restraint, allowing for flexible misalignment accommodation and reliable connection without weld beads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a split ring with ring adjustment mechanism is used to prevent axial movement, then axial restraint is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components (transverse pieces, lugs, threaded studs)
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp ring is divided into two separate clamp ring halves that can be assembled around the pipe joint, allowing for easier installation and adjustment while maintaining axial restraint functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces lever arms extending axially from the clamp ring halves, transforming the radial adjustment mechanism into a combination of radial clamping and axial positioning, thereby simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliability
2Reliability
If factory-applied weld beads are used to restrain pipes, then axial restraint is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates due to equipment and expertise requirements at site
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the welding process (thermal/mechanical joining) with a mechanical clamping system using clamp ring halves and bolts, eliminating the need for specialized welding equipment and expertise at the installation site while maintaining effective axial restraint
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp ring assembly is designed to be self-contained with all necessary components (clamp ring halves, bolts, lever arms) integrated into a single assembly that can be installed and adjusted by standard personnel without requiring external welding services
3Adaptability or versatility
If clamp ring halves with lever arms are used, then flexibility in accommodating misalignment is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional alignment components
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp ring halves are designed with asymmetric features including offset hole positions and specific lever arm configurations that naturally accommodate misalignment between pipes while maintaining clamping effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The lever arms are designed to rotate about pins, providing dynamic adjustment capability that allows the clamp ring to adapt to misaligned pipe positions during installation and operation
4Manufacturing precision
If pins are added for alignment of clamp ring halves, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment function of the pins is merged with the existing clamping structure, where the pins serve dual purposes: aligning the clamp ring halves during assembly and acting as rotation axes for the lever arms, thereby adding alignment capability without significantly increasing overall device complexity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention relates to a pipe joint assembly adapted for use in high pressure pipe fittings comprising of a socket end (7) of one pipe which has a taper end (8) of another pipe is inserted, wherein the socket has a cavity (7A) with at least two openings (7B); and a restraining clamp ring (1) for holding the taper (8) end inside the socket by a "V" shaped recess (2A) having two ring type clamping halves (1A), each having two lever arms (1C) extending along the length of the pipe.