Union Connection Collar and Ring Segments for Torque-Free Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing union connections in high-pressure pipeline systems require the use of hammers or torque wrenches for assembly and disassembly, posing safety risks and increasing labor needs, and there is a need for a solution that allows for secure connection and disconnection without these tools.
Innovation Solution
A hammerless and torque-less union connection design featuring a female pipe, male pipe, collar, and shaped ring segments, where the ring segments apply compressive forces to secure the male pipe in place, eliminating the need for hammers or torque wrenches by using a pin to align and secure the components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional union connections are used in high-pressure pipeline systems, then secure connection is achieved, but the use of hammers or torque wrenches is required which poses safety risks and increases labor needs
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into distinct functional components: a female pipe with external threads, a male pipe with internal threads and a groove, and a collar with internal threads. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while eliminating the need for harmful assembly tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar acts as an intermediary component that mediates the connection between the female and male pipes. By threading the collar onto the female pipe, it applies controlled compressive force through the groove to secure the male pipe, replacing the need for direct hammering or torque application to the pipes themselves.
2Reliability
If traditional union connections are tightened by feel or torque wrench, then adequate sealing is achieved, but additional power operated tools and labor are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is designed to self-regulate the tightening process. As the collar is threaded onto the female pipe, it automatically applies the correct compressive force through the groove to secure the male pipe and create a seal, eliminating the need for operators to judge tightness by feel or use torque wrenches.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the mechanical parameter of force application from uncontrolled hammering or torque-wrench-dependent forces to controlled compressive forces applied through the collar's threading mechanism. This ensures consistent sealing quality while simplifying the assembly process.
3Strength
If hammers are used to tighten union connections in high-pressure applications, then secure connection is achieved, but injury to workers and breaking of parts may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the impact-based mechanical system (hammering) with a threaded mechanical system. The collar's external threads engage with the female pipe's internal threads, converting rotational motion into controlled linear compression that secures the connection without impact loads that could cause part failure.
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
Enables secure and leak-proof connections in high-pressure pipelines with minimal tools, reducing the risk of injury and labor costs associated with traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
the ring segments apply compressive forces and not shear forces to retain the male pipe in place against or in close proximity to the female pipe through the collar
Implementation Method 2
In some forms of union connections, a separate elastomeric seal is used to seal the connection between the female pipe and male pipe
Data Source
AI summary
A union connection common in connecting pipelines in various industries comprises a threaded female pipe end, a male pipe end insertable into the female pipe end to form a sealed connection, a plurality of shaped ring segments and a threaded collar in which the shaped ring segments are placed in a shaped groove on the male pipe and positioned in the threaded collar. The threaded female pipe end is then threaded onto the threaded collar, the threads each being clocked so as to press the collar against the male pipe using the ring segments and into a sealed connection with the female pipe. A pin inserted through a pin hole in the collar and into a pin recess in the female pipe end holds the parts in place. The pin hole and pin recess are positioned relative to the clocked threads of the collar and female pipe.