Flexible Tubular Junction Locking Assembly for Leak-Safe Axial Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flexible tubular junctions face challenges with accidental dislocation of spigot ends relative to socket ends under fluid pressure, requiring complex welding solutions or delicate adjustments with locking inserts, which can lead to sealing defects and leaks.
Innovation Solution
A ready-to-assemble locking assembly that includes a cylindrical locking counterflange and a retaining accessory, allowing for easy and robust assembly by axial tightening, which compresses the joint gasket over the entire circumference, avoiding the need for on-site welding and complex adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If locking inserts are integrated into the seal gasket, then axial locking is achieved, but the sealing ring may be overly compressed or misaligned causing sealing defects
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is separated from the sealing function by using independent locking inserts that engage with the spigot end separately from the sealing ring compression mechanism. This segmentation allows the sealing ring to be compressed uniformly without the risk of misalignment caused by integrated locking features.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking inserts act as intermediary elements between the sealing counterflange and the spigot end, providing axial locking through engagement with the spigot end wall while allowing the sealing ring to maintain proper alignment and compression independently.
2Reliability
If welding is performed on site to prevent disengagement, then dislocation risk is reduced, but the process becomes complex requiring special equipment and expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The welding process is replaced with a mechanical locking system consisting of locking inserts and a locking counterflange that provide disengagement prevention through mechanical engagement rather than metallurgical bonding, eliminating the need for welding equipment and expertise.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking inserts automatically engage with the spigot end wall under the action of fluid pressure and sealing counterflange compression, providing self-locking functionality without requiring additional assembly steps or specialized operations.
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 solution provides reliable axial locking, easy assembly, and improved sealing without the risk of dislocation, while maintaining flexibility and allowing for angular deviations, thus enhancing the durability and performance of tubular junctions under fluid pressure.
Implementation Method 1
a joint gasket consisting of a sealing ring, made of elastic material, and in particular of elastomer or rubber
Data Source
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AI summary
The ready-to-mount locking assembly (5) is intended to be fitted onto a sealing mating flange (4) for a flexible tubular junction comprising a spigot end (20), a socket end (10), and at least one seal (3). It comprises: - a cylindrical locking mating flange (50) which is designed to be fitted onto the spigot end (20), - assembly means (52; 53) for assembling the locking mating flange (50) with the sealing mating flange (4) and with the socket end (10), - at least one retaining accessory (54), and - clamping means (55) which make it possible to immobilize the retaining accessory on the spigot end by clamping the retaining accessory (54) on the spigot end (20).