Classifications

• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/004—Preventing sticking together, e.g. of some areas of the parts to be joined
  • B29C66/0042—Preventing sticking together, e.g. of some areas of the parts to be joined of the joining tool and the parts to be joined
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
  • B29C65/18—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tools
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C65/02—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure
  • B29C65/18—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tools
  • B29C65/24—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor by heating, with or without pressure using heated tools characterised by the means for heating the tool
  • B29C65/30—Electrical means
  • B29C65/305—Electrical means involving the use of cartridge heaters
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C65/78—Means for handling the parts to be joined, e.g. for making containers or hollow articles, e.g. means for handling sheets, plates, web-like materials, tubular articles, hollow articles or elements to be joined therewith; Means for discharging the joined articles from the joining apparatus
  • B29C65/7802—Positioning the parts to be joined, e.g. aligning, indexing or centring
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C65/00—Joining or sealing of preformed parts, e.g. welding of plastics materials; Apparatus therefor
  • B29C65/78—Means for handling the parts to be joined, e.g. for making containers or hollow articles, e.g. means for handling sheets, plates, web-like materials, tubular articles, hollow articles or elements to be joined therewith; Means for discharging the joined articles from the joining apparatus
  • B29C65/7841—Holding or clamping means for handling purposes
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
  • B29C66/05—Particular design of joint configurations
  • B29C66/10—Particular design of joint configurations particular design of the joint cross-sections
  • B29C66/11—Joint cross-sections comprising a single joint-segment, i.e. one of the parts to be joined comprising a single joint-segment in the joint cross-section
  • B29C66/114—Single butt joints
  • B29C66/1142—Single butt to butt joints
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
  • B29C66/32—Measures for keeping the burr form under control; Avoiding burr formation; Shaping the burr
  • B29C66/324—Avoiding burr formation
  • B29C66/3242—Avoiding burr formation on the inside of a tubular or hollow article
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/01—General aspects dealing with the joint area or with the area to be joined
  • B29C66/348—Avoiding melting or weakening of the zone directly next to the joint area, e.g. by cooling
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/50—General aspects of joining tubular articles; General aspects of joining long products, i.e. bars or profiled elements; General aspects of joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; General aspects of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
  • B29C66/51—Joining tubular articles, profiled elements or bars; Joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; Joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
  • B29C66/52—Joining tubular articles, bars or profiled elements
  • B29C66/522—Joining tubular articles
  • B29C66/5221—Joining tubular articles for forming coaxial connections, i.e. the tubular articles to be joined forming a zero angle relative to each other
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/50—General aspects of joining tubular articles; General aspects of joining long products, i.e. bars or profiled elements; General aspects of joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; General aspects of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
  • B29C66/51—Joining tubular articles, profiled elements or bars; Joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; Joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
  • B29C66/52—Joining tubular articles, bars or profiled elements
  • B29C66/522—Joining tubular articles
  • B29C66/5224—Joining tubular articles for forming fork-shaped connections, e.g. for making Y-shaped pieces
  • B29C66/52241—Joining tubular articles for forming fork-shaped connections, e.g. for making Y-shaped pieces with two right angles, e.g. for making T-shaped pieces
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/50—General aspects of joining tubular articles; General aspects of joining long products, i.e. bars or profiled elements; General aspects of joining single elements to tubular articles, hollow articles or bars; General aspects of joining several hollow-preforms to form hollow or tubular articles
  • B29C66/63—Internally supporting the article during joining
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/70—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material
  • B29C66/73—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset
  • B29C66/739—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset
  • B29C66/7392—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of at least one of the parts being a thermoplastic
  • B29C66/73921—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts characterised by the composition, physical properties or the structure of the material of the parts to be joined; Joining with non-plastics material characterised by the intensive physical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the optical properties of the material of the parts to be joined, by the extensive physical properties of the parts to be joined, by the state of the material of the parts to be joined or by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of the parts to be joined being a thermoplastic or a thermoset characterised by the material of at least one of the parts being a thermoplastic characterised by the materials of both parts being thermoplastics
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
  • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/812—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the composition, by the structure, by the intensive physical properties or by the optical properties of the material constituting the pressing elements, e.g. constituting the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/8126—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the composition, by the structure, by the intensive physical properties or by the optical properties of the material constituting the pressing elements, e.g. constituting the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the intensive physical properties or by the optical properties of the material constituting the pressing elements, e.g. constituting the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/81261—Thermal properties, e.g. thermal conductivity, thermal expansion coefficient
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
  • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/818—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
  • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/818—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps
  • B29C66/8181—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects
  • B29C66/81815—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects of the clamps
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
  • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/818—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps
  • B29C66/8182—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps characterised by the thermal insulating constructional aspects
  • B29C66/81821—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the cooling constructional aspects, or by the thermal or electrical insulating or conducting constructional aspects of the welding jaws or of the clamps ; comprising means for compensating for the thermal expansion of the welding jaws or of the clamps characterised by the thermal insulating constructional aspects of the welding jaws
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
  • B29C66/84—Specific machine types or machines suitable for specific applications
  • B29C66/841—Machines or tools adaptable for making articles of different dimensions or shapes or for making joints of different dimensions
  • B29C66/8414—Machines or tools adaptable for making articles of different dimensions or shapes or for making joints of different dimensions of different diameter
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
  • B29C66/84—Specific machine types or machines suitable for specific applications
  • B29C66/861—Hand-held tools
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/9141—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature
  • B29C66/91421—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature of the joining tools
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/9141—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature
  • B29C66/91441—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature the temperature being non-constant over time
  • B29C66/91443—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature the temperature being non-constant over time following a temperature-time profile
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/9141—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature
  • B29C66/91441—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature the temperature being non-constant over time
  • B29C66/91443—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature the temperature being non-constant over time following a temperature-time profile
  • B29C66/91445—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature the temperature being non-constant over time following a temperature-time profile by steps
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/9161—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the heat or the thermal flux, i.e. the heat flux
  • B29C66/91641—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the heat or the thermal flux, i.e. the heat flux the heat or the thermal flux being non-constant over time
  • B29C66/91643—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the heat or the thermal flux, i.e. the heat flux the heat or the thermal flux being non-constant over time following a heat-time profile
  • B29C66/91645—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the heat or the thermal flux, i.e. the heat flux the heat or the thermal flux being non-constant over time following a heat-time profile by steps
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/919—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux characterised by specific temperature, heat or thermal flux values or ranges
  • B29C66/9192—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux characterised by specific temperature, heat or thermal flux values or ranges in explicit relation to another variable, e.g. temperature diagrams
  • B29C66/91951—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux characterised by specific temperature, heat or thermal flux values or ranges in explicit relation to another variable, e.g. temperature diagrams in explicit relation to time, e.g. temperature-time diagrams
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
  • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/812—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the composition, by the structure, by the intensive physical properties or by the optical properties of the material constituting the pressing elements, e.g. constituting the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/8122—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the composition, by the structure, by the intensive physical properties or by the optical properties of the material constituting the pressing elements, e.g. constituting the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the composition of the material constituting the pressing elements, e.g. constituting the welding jaws or clamps
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/80—General aspects of machine operations or constructions and parts thereof
  • B29C66/81—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/816—General aspects of the pressing elements, i.e. the elements applying pressure on the parts to be joined in the area to be joined, e.g. the welding jaws or clamps characterised by the mounting of the pressing elements, e.g. of the welding jaws or clamps
  • B29C66/8167—Quick change joining tools or surfaces
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/914—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/9161—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the heat or the thermal flux, i.e. the heat flux
  • B29C66/91651—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the heat or the thermal flux, i.e. the heat flux by controlling or regulating the heat generated by Joule heating or induction heating
  • B29C66/91655—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux by controlling or regulating the heat or the thermal flux, i.e. the heat flux by controlling or regulating the heat generated by Joule heating or induction heating by controlling or regulating the current intensity
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/91—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux
  • B29C66/919—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the temperature, the heat or the thermal flux characterised by specific temperature, heat or thermal flux values or ranges
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/92—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the pressure, the force, the mechanical power or the displacement of the joining tools
  • B29C66/929—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the pressure, the force, the mechanical power or the displacement of the joining tools characterized by specific pressure, force, mechanical power or displacement values or ranges
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/94—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the time
  • B29C66/949—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling the time characterised by specific time values or ranges
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/95—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling specific variables not covered by groups B29C66/91 - B29C66/94
  • B29C66/959—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling specific variables not covered by groups B29C66/91 - B29C66/94 characterised by specific values or ranges of said specific variables
  • B29C66/9592—Measuring or controlling the joining process by measuring or controlling specific variables not covered by groups B29C66/91 - B29C66/94 characterised by specific values or ranges of said specific variables in explicit relation to another variable, e.g. X-Y diagrams
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
  • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
  • B29C66/00—General aspects of processes or apparatus for joining preformed parts
  • B29C66/90—Measuring or controlling the joining process
  • B29C66/96—Measuring or controlling the joining process characterised by the method for implementing the controlling of the joining process
  • B29C66/964—Measuring or controlling the joining process characterised by the method for implementing the controlling of the joining process involving trial and error

Definitions

• This invention relates to plastic tubing, and in particular an apparatus and method for joining ends of melt processable plastic tubing together to form a beadless weldment .
• Plastic tubing assembly is generally achieved by the use of fittings and fixtures. This is acceptable for many applications, however, there are drawbacks to this form of assembly.
• fittings are used to join two tubes together, for example, the interior surface of the assembled tubing is often left with spaces or gaps between the ends of the tubes and the fittings or the ends of the tubes opposing each other.
• the interior surface is not smooth.
• particulates may accumulate or accrete in the gaps or spaces and serve as a source of chemical contamination for fluids passing thereby. The accumulated or accreted particulates may also break away from the gap to create a source of physical or mechanical contamination.
• Another problem with the use of fittings and fixtures is that volatile components of the bonding materials used in assembly may leach out and become a source of contamination. Additionally, the bond itself may adversely react with fluids transported in the tubes and/or may become unduly embrittled or weakened. Another problem that arises is that the uneven interior surface may become a source of unwanted turbulence and flow resistance for fluid passing thereby.
• Such fittings are, of course, subject to leakage.
• thermoplastic pipes see for example U.S. Patent No. 4,929,293 to Oscar, which utilizes the placement of an infrared heating platen in between and confronting the tubular end pieces to be joined. The infrared heating plate is removed and the tube joints are then engaged together to create the weld.
• Various devices have been developed to reduce or eliminate the radially inwardly protruding seam or junction. These devices involve placing a temporary form or insert, generally termed ?mandrels? in the interior of tube ends to be joined, joining the tube ends, typically in a contact/conduction weld head, and then removing the temporary insert or form.
• the temporary inserts or forms are usually positioned coincident with the interior surfaces and ends of the tubes to be conjoined so that any gaps therebetween are spanned by the insert.
• the inserts or forms are of sufficient strength to resist compressive forces incurred during the conjoining process.
• Some of the devices which have been developed include inflatable bladders, elastically deformable expanding plugs, soluble plugs, frangible plugs, and mechanically adjustable mandrels (see, for example U.S. Patent No. 5,484,506 to DuPont et al . and U.S. Patent No. 5,037,500 to Hilpert both of which disclose the use of radially expandable internal mandrels to allow engagement of the interior surface of the tubular end portions to be joined and then allow the mandrel to be radially retracted and removed from the tubing) .
• the inflatable bladder insert for example, is usually longitudinally shaped and is designed to exert a radially extending outward force as it is pressurized.
• the bladder is not functional as an insert per-se and requires a source of working fluid, a delivery system, and a control system to enable the bladder to be filled and emptied to predetermined pressures. The requirement of such systems not only increases the complexity of the device, it necessarily restricts the number of locations where the device may be operated. Moreover, the bladder may be accidently punctured and lose its ability to be pressurized.
• the elastically deformable expanding plugs do not suffer from the infirmities of the bladder, however, they do require specialized tools and fixtures to compress and elastically and radially deform a plug (or plugs) to an operable, supportive position within the tube ends. If the fixture breaks, or the interface between the specialized tools and the fixture becomes damaged, the plug will be inoperable.
• Soluble and frangible plugs are designed to be used once and must be destroyed in order to be removed. That is, removal is accomplished by absorption and/or erosion by a suitable fluid medium or by fracturing, respectively. While these types of plugs are simple to use and do not require specialized tools or fixtures, they have their drawbacks in that they are relatively brittle and may break due to mishandling or accident prior to use. And, they may become sources of contamination due to incomplete and/or ineffective removal after use and it can be time consuming to remove such plugs .
• Mechanically adjustable mandrels are relatively complicated to fabricate and assemble. They usually comprise a plurality of radially movable parts which are interconnected to each other by spring or similar retaining elements. Their construction permits variety of different tube sizes to be conjoined. Thus, one adjustable mandrel can replace a set of non-adjustable mandrels. This advantage is also a disadvantage in that the adjustable mandrel can come out of adjustment, or the radial parts may become misaligned or lost. Moreover, because they must be adjusted each time they are used on different sized tubes, they create significant down time . To the extent the above devices are commercially utilized, they generally are used with non-fluoropolymer plastics.
• thermoplastic tubular end portions such as by providing heat sink arrangements and forced cooling.
• the high thermal conductivity of metals and particularly stainless steel minimizes the eff ctiveness of such measures and ancillary cooling equipment adds cost, complexity, and maintenance problems.
• a welding apparatus, system, and methodology are needed for creating beadless welds in plastic tubular end portions, particularly PFA, by conduction heating. Moreover, there is a need for reducing cycle time in welding thermoplastics.
• tubular end portions of PFA When tubular end portions of PFA are heated to beyond their melt point a minimal, although significant, amount of expansion of the molten PFA material occurs. When the tubular end portions being welded are tightly constrained this expansion causes the molten PFA to leach into any crevices or imperfections in the weld head and/or mandrel. Moreover, if the tubular end portions are secured in place after the weld is cooled there will typically be a narrowing of the material at the weld site. This can cause an hourglass shape and/or a reduced wall thickness at the juncture. Where the PFA has leached into minute crevices or imperfections, flashing may exist on the exterior or interior surfaces of the tube when the weld has cooled and is removed from the weld head.
• a conduction welding apparatus and method for bonding abutted thermal plastic tubular end portions is particularly suitable for welding PFA.
• a folding weld head embraces the abutted the tubular end portions to be welded, each tubular end portion including a flange spaced from the surfaces to be joined.
• the weld head includes means for securing the flanges within the weld head and further include bias means.
• the bias means provide an inward axial bias on the adjoined tubular end portions when the tubular end portions are displaced axially outward from the weld head due to the expansion of the plastic during the weld process .
• the bias means in a preferred embodiment is substantially inoperative prior to the weld and provides bias, or a substantial increase in bias, when the flanges are displaced due to the expansion of the molten PFA during the weld process.
• the securing means comprises a pair of clamps which each attach to and encompass the respective tubular end portions at the end portion flanges. The tubing clamps fit into recesses in the weld head.
• the bias means is provided by a spring loaded plate which is deflectable in an axial direction outward from the weld head.
• the insert or mandrel of the present invention comprises at least two portions which are operatively connected to, and longitudinally movable with respect to each other between two different configurations.
• the insert In the first configuration, the insert is in supporting contact with the interior surfaces of tubing end portions as they are being conjoined, thus facilitating the formation of a beadless weldment.
• the insert In the second configuration, the insert is manipulated out of supporting contact with the interior surfaces of tubing end portions to be conjoined, thus facilitating removal of the insert from the tubes.
• the insert comprises a first portion or component and a second portion or component.
• the first or core portion is generally cylindrical in shape and includes a nose, a tail, and a first circumferential support surface.
• the nose and the tail of the first core portion are streamlined to facilitate manipulation through non-linear sections of tubing.
• the preferred material of the first core portion is polyetheretherketone (PEEK) although other similar material may be used.
• the second or tubing contact portion is also generally cylindrical in shape and includes a skirt and an end wall which are arranged in a generally cup-shaped form.
• the material selected for use in at least the skirt of the second tubing contact portion becomes important.
• the preferred material of the second tubing contact portion is a high temperature silicon No. 010-611 available from Robinson Rubber Mfg., New Hope, MN.
• the insert is designed so that in the first conjoining configuration, the first core portion is substantially received within and supportingly contacts the skirt of the second tubing contact portion. When the insert is in the second removal configuration, the first core portion is out of supporting contact with the skirt of the second tubing contact portion.
• first portion or component and the second portion or component of the insert may be selectively assembled into a support structure to provide support for the tube end portions to be joined or disassembled into a non-support structure to facilitate removal of the insert from the tubing.
• Portions of the first core portion and/or the second tubing contact portion of the insert may be provided with friction reducing material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene, to facilitate movement between the first and second configurations and subsequent removal of the insert from the tubing.
• friction reducing material may be integral with the insert portions, or take the form of an additional layer of material, or be applied to predetermined surfaces in predetermined quantities.
• the second tubing contact portion may be used as a stand alone inser . It is envisioned that the application for this embodiment would be useful in situations where tubing is of thin wall construction, and/or is relatively small in diameter.
• the first core portion may be manipulated between a relatively compact form and a relatively expanded form. As the insert is moved from the first conjoining configuration to the second removal configuration, the first core portion and the second tubing contact portion move longitudinally with respect to each other as in the preferred embodiment.
• the second tubing contact portion includes an additional coaxial segment which is configured to receive the first core portion as the insert moves from the first conjoining configuration to the second removal configuration.
• the second tubing contact portion may alternatively be formed as a strip of heat-resistant material operatively connected to the first portion and which has been wound about the support surface of the first portion to a suitable thickness . As the first portion is withdrawn, the end of the second portion starts to unwind, thus facilitating removal of the form. It is also envisioned that such a strip may be used over the second tubing contact portion of the preferred embodiment as an insulator, thus extending the working temperature range of the insert .
• An object of the preferred embodiment of the invention is to simplify construction of an insert for use in conjoining plastic tubular end portions to form a beadless weldment.
• An advantage of the preferred embodiment is that the insert is easy to use.
• a feature of the preferred embodiment of the invention is that the first core portion and the second tubing contact portion of the insert are slidingly movable with respect to each other in a longitudinal direction.
• first core portion and the second tubing contact portion are movable between a first conjoining configuration where the first core portion is in supporting contact with the second tubing contact portion, and a second removal configuration where the first core portion is not in supporting contact with the second tubing contact portion.
• Yet another feature of the preferred embodiment of the invention is that one of the portions of the insert is everted when the insert is moved from the first conjoining configuration to the second removal configuration.
• a further significant feature of a preferred embodiment of the invention is that the insert can be manipulated through corners such as elbows and "T's.”
• an object and feature of the system is to provide a readily adaptable portable or bench top conduction welding apparatus for various sizes of tubing which requires no adjustable of or mechanical manipulation of the tubing supports when different sizes of tubing are welded.
• Another object and advantage of particular embodiments of the invention is that metal to tubing contact is absolutely minimized or eliminated. This facilitates the use of less power per weld, minimizes cycle time, accelerates heating and cooling of the tubular end portions, keeps the exterior of the tubular end portions in better condition, and provides an environment very conductive to welding PFA.
• a principal object and advantage of particular embodiments of the invention is that the weld zone is minimized resulting in quicker cycle times.
• a feature and advantage of the invention is that the spring-loaded bias is provided only when the tubular end portions expand axially outward.
• a further advantage and feature of the invention is that structural anomalies at the weld site such as narrowed wall thickness, flashing, hourglass shape can be minimized or eliminated by the invention.
• FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a weld head in accordance with the invention.
• FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a weld head on a bench fixture .
• FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a tube clamp in initial engagement with the cylindrical exterior surface of a tubular end portion.
• FIG. 3a is an elevational view of a tube clamp.
• FIG. 3b is a cross-sectional view taken at line 3b-3b of FIG. 3a illustrating a recess for a flange in the clamp.
• FIG. 3c is a cross-sectional view taken at line 3b-3b of FIG. 3a illustrating serrations in the clamp.
• FIG. 4 is a tube clamp shown in initial engagement with a flanged tubular end portion of a T-fitting.
• FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the tubular end portions and clamps of FIGS. 3 and 4 abutted and with a film wrapped on the juncture. The assembly is ready for insertion into a weld head.
• FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a weld head with abutted tubular portions, clamps, and an insert therein .
• FIG. 7 is a detailed cross-sectional view showing the interface between the heating portion and the abutted tubular end portions and the juncture.
• FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a heater portion half section.
• FIG. 8a is a perspective view of a heater portion half section of FIG. 8 assembled.
• FIG. 9 is cross-sectional view through the heater portion assembled taken at 9-9 of FIG. 8a.
• FIG. 10 is an exploded view of an alternate embodiment of a heater portion half section.
• FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the heater portion half section of FIG. 10 assembled.
• FIG. 12 is cross-sectional view through the heater portion assembled taken at line 12-12 of FIG. 11.
• FIG. 13 is an elevational view of a universal tubing support .
• FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a welding apparatus.
• FIG. 15 is another cross-sectional view of a welding apparatus .
• FIG. 16 is an elevational view of a tubing support and cross sectional view of weld heads showing the adaptive datum level concept .
• FIG. 17 is a chart showing the relative power levels corresponding to steady state temperatures plotted against time illustrating a weld cycle.
• FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of a further embodiment of a weld head in accordance with the invention.
• FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 18.
• FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view the apparatus of FIG. 18 taken at line 20-20.
• FIG. 21 is a detailed figure of a bias means of the embodiments of FIGS. 18-20.
• FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the insert of the present invention with the first core portion and second tubing contact portions in a nesting relation, the perspective taken from the exposed end of the first core portion;
• FIG. 23 is an exploded, sectional view of the insert showing the first, second and third portions
• FIG. 24 is an exploded, perspective view of the insert, the perspective taken from the exposed end wall of the second tubing contact portion;
• FIG. 25 is a sectional view of the insert as it is positioned adjacent the gap defined by unattached tube ends prior to joining, and where the skirt of second tubing contact portion is supported by the first core portion;
• FIG. 26 is a sectional view of the insert as it is being withdrawn from the now joined tubes of FIG. 4A, and where the first core portion is in partially supporting contact with the skirt of the second tubing contact portion;
• FIG. 27 is a sectional view of the insert in the stage of withdrawal where the first core portion has been brought out of contacting support with the skirt of the second tubing contact portion;
• FIG. 28 is a sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the insert, the embodiment comprising the second tubing contact portion only;
• FIG. 29 is a sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the insert wherein the first core portion may be manipulated during removal of the insert;
• FIG. 30 is a sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the insert wherein the first core portion is slidingly movable between two segments of the second tubing contact portion.
• the weld head 22 is comprised principally of a weld head body 24 with two half body sections 26, 28, a heater portion 32 comprised of two heater portion half sections 36, 38, a hinge 40, a toggle latch 42, and a handle 44.
• FIGS. 3 and 4 a pair of tubular end portions are shown partially engaged by tubing clamps 50, 52.
• FIGS. 3a, 3b and 3c show further details of the clamps.
• the tubular end portion 55 of FIG. 3 reflects the end of conventional tubing and the tubing clamp 50 utilizes a plurality of circular serrations 58 for gripping the exterior surface 62 of the tubing 64.
• the clamp has a hinge 65 and a pair of toggle latches 66 for securing the clamp on the tubular end portion.
• the clamps as shown may suitably be manufactured from polyetheretherketone (PEEK) .
• PEEK polyetheretherketone
• FIGS. 4 and 3b a tubing clamp is shown which has a recess 70 sized to engage a flange 74 which is integral with the tubular end portions 76 of certain fittings such as the T-fitting 80 as shown in FIG. 4.
• FIG. 5 shows the tubular end portions of FIGS. 3 and 4 abutted together with an insert, not visible in this view, placed at the juncture 80 of the abutted end portions.
• the juncture is covered with a piece of flexible impervious sheet material 84.
• Said sheet material may be formed in a elongate strip and secured on the tubular end portions by an adhesive such as cyan acrylic adhesive.
• the strips of flexible impervious sheet material 84 are in one preferred embodiment comprised of Kapton film type HN with a thickness of .002 inches to .005 inches.
• Kapton is a registered trademark of DuPont Electronics and is a polyamide film.
• Other types of pervious sheet material that are tolerant to the weld temperatures may also be quite suitable, for example, stainless steel, aluminum, or nickel foils all appear to be suitable for covering the weld juncture if desired.
• the abutted tubular end portion assembly 99 is inserted in the semi-cylindrical cavity 90 and simultaneously the tubing clamps are received in the slots 94.
• the upper half body section 26 is closed and clamps down upon the abutted end portions. See FIG. 2.
• the heater head has a power cord 100 with a connector 102 which connects to a control unit 106 which suitably may control the welding process.
• the tubular end portion 55 is part of a tubing section 110 which is to be welded to the "T" fitting 80.
• An adjustable universal tubing support 112 holds the tubing section.
• the weld head of FIG. 2 is shown hinged away from the handle 49 compared to the alternate configuration of the hinge adjacent the handle in FIG. 1.
• FIG. 6 a cross-sectional view of the weld head and tubular end portions assembly is illustrated along with an insert to prevent the creation of an inner bead. Also illustrated is the placement and relationships of the tubing clamps 50, 52 to the weld head as well as the relationship of the heating portion 32 including the central heated section to the tubular end portions and specifically to the juncture 80.
• the two heater portions half sections 36, 38 are shown in detailed in FIG. 7 through 9 and comprise central heated section 120 and a pair of secondary isolation sections 124, 126.
• the heater portion 32 has a cylindrical bore 127 and two axial sides 128, 129.
• a conventional heater cartridge 130 fits within the recess 132 in the widened portion 134 of each the central heated section. As is evident from FIG.
• the isolation secondary sections sandwiched are preferably chosen of a material which is of a lower thermal conductivity than the central heated section. This then provides for resistance in the equalization of the temperature of the secondary sections to the central section and thereby creates a sharp temperature gradient and limits the size of the melt zone.
• the clamps 50, 52 are illustrated as reflecting inward by way of compressive force in the tubular end portions on each side of the insert 136. This facilitates the proper centering of the insert in the tubular end portion assembly. Moreover, it functions to securely hold the assembly in place.
• FIG. 8, 8a, and 9 illustrate a suitable configuration for a heater portion as also illustrated in FIG. 6.
• the central heated section 120 is comprised of machined cooper and may have a plating 142 of monel or similar material. Cooper has been found to adhere somewhat to the melted PFA and a stainless steel coating or monel is to minimize such adhesion.
• the isolating secondary sections may be formed such as by machining of high temperature polymers such polyamide. Vespel brand of polyamide available from and manufactured by Boedeker Plastics, Inc. out of Shiner, Texas, is suitable for the secondary sections. Vespel has a thermal conductivity rating of 8.3 BTU-in/ft 2 -hr-EF.
• the melt zone may vary in size although it has been found that for 1 inch PFA tubing a melt zone of 1/4 inch is suitable.
• the thickness of the heated section at the bore 127 has been found to suitably be .015 inches thick measure in the axial direction.
• the melt zone will extend out to the region adjacent the secondary sections.
• Conventional conduction heating equipment cannot provide isolation of the heat provided to the juncture and control and limit the melt zone to the degree that is possible utilizing a layered heater portion with optimal selection of materials with the highly differentiated thermal conductivities.
• a heater element could be a stainless steel or other metallic wire 162 which is mechanically or otherwise engaged with the central heated section 166 which has the T-shaped cross-section.
• This heated section 166 is sandwiched intermediate the secondary sections 170, 172.
• the ceramic sections can be suitably bounded together to form the single unit as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12.
• Other materials are usable and which would have the similar advantages as discussed above .
• FIGS. 2, 13, 14, 15, and 16 the aspect of the invention relating to the universal tubing supports and weld heads with tubing datum level adaptation are illustrated.
• the tubing datum level 182 for differing tubing sizes is either fixed for the tubing support 186 with the U-shaped tubing support surface 188 as illustrated in FIG. 13 or can vary when a tubing support 190 with a V-shaped tubing support surface 192 as illustrated in FIG. 16 is utilized.
• the tubing of the first size, the smaller diameter tubing 194 nests farther down in the ?V? with a first datum level 195.
• the tubing of the second size, the larger diameter tubing 196 is higher and defines a second datum level 197.
• the U-shaped surface the smaller diameter tubing 194 and the larger diameter tubing 196 will have the same datum level 182. Both the U-shaped and V-shaped surfaces have downwardly converging side surfaces 198.
• first and second weld heads 199, 200 are shown which are adapted for the first and second tubing sizes respectively and the U-shaped universal tubing support 186.
• first and second weld head upper portions 201, 201 are each adapted, for the first and second tubing sizes respectively and the V-shaped universal tubing support 190.
• the first weld head 199 or the first weld head upper portion 201, for the first tubing size is adapted to the first datum level, that is, the datum level of the smaller tuber such as by having a shorter base 202 than for the larger tubing size.
• the second weld head 200 and second weld head upper portion 203 are adapted to the second datum level.
• Other means of adapting a weld head for a specific tubing size to the appropriate datum level for that tubing size will be apparent to those knowledgeable in the art.
• FIG. 16 illustrates the weld head lower portion 210 which receives the weld head upper portions 201, 203 at location 212.
• Such tubing supports 186, 194 and weld head components may suitably formed of aluminum or other materials.
• the weld cycle of the weld system is preferably controlled by conventional automated controller means.
• controllers are well known in the art.
• the heater element may be a conventional heater cartridge. Particularly for welding PFA, in order to minimize environmental effects such as the ambient temperature, the heater element and heated section is initially powered up with sufficient current to approach a first temperature that is substantially below the weld temperature, for example approximately 350 EF.
• FIG. 17 illustrates a temperature curve corresponding to the power being provided to the heater cartridge. The actual temperature of the heated section will lag behind to reflect the curve of dashed lines. Moreover, the temperature of the heater head body will lag substantially further behind and would due to heat loss would likely never reach the temperature corresponding to a particular power level. Said sufficient power is sustained for a warm up period of approximately two minutes .
• the temperature is then ramped down to approximately 210 EF for several minutes and then is rapidly ramped up to the weld temperature of approximately 750 EF and is held there for sufficient time to accomplish the weld, perhaps eleven minutes.
• the temperature is then ramped down to ambient and the joint and weld head are allowed to cool, for perhaps 8 to 10 minutes, before removal of the welded component.
• the weld head 224 has a weld head body 225, a pair of weld head portions configured as weld head halves 228, 230, a pivotal latch 236, a threaded handle 238 which cooperates with a pivotal pin 240 to accomplish the latching and clamping of the two halves of the weld head.
• the weld head has recesses 250, 252 for receiving the tubing clamp portions, such as discrete removable clamps as shown in the previous FIGS. 1, 3, and 6.
• the clamp portions may be generally nonremovable clamp portions affixed to the balance of the weld head.
• the recesses, the structure defining the recesses, and tubing clamps comprise securing means for gripping the tubular end portions.
• the structure defining the recess includes outer deflectable plates 260, 262, 264, 266. These deflectable plates are secured in place by a plurality of bolts 266 which are threadably attached to the four plates.
• the bolts extend through holes 272 in the respective body portions and coiled springs 277 operate to hold the deflectable plates 260 in the initial position shown in FIG. 20.
• said deflectable plates may deflect to the position indicated by the dotted lines labeled with the numeral 280.
• the springs are providing no bias to the abutted tubular end portions.
• the bias means provided by the springs present a distinct component of bias that takes effect substantially on displacement or deflection of the plates as they extend to the position 280.
• the coiled springs are fully compressed and the axial pressure provided on the tubular end portions could be suitably 100 pounds for a 1 inch PFA tubing weld.
• Such retention provides a high quality weld where the deficiencies of narrowed wall thickness, hour glass shape, and flashing are reduced or eliminated.
• the insert 310 is shown is generally identified with the numeral 310.
• the insert 310 includes a first core portion or component 320 and a second tubing contact portion or component 320.
• the core portion 320 and the tubing contact portion 322 are in a first conjoining or assembled configuration where the core portion or component 320 is in supporting contact with the tubing contact portion or component 322 and the tubing contact portion or component 322 is in supporting contact with plastic tubular end portions (not shown) .
• the insert 310 is connected or otherwise linked to an actuation element "E" which is used to remove the insert 310 from a weldment location.
• the actuation element “E” may be a string, cable, bowden cable, ribbon, wire, rod, or other device capable of exerting sufficient force to move the first portion or component 320 relative to the second portion or component 322 from the assembled or conjoining configuration as depicted to a disassembled or removal configuration (see FIG. 27) and to then extract the insert from the tubing.
• the first core portion 320 comprises a generally cylindrically shaped body 330 having a nose 332 and a tail 334.
• the body is provided with an axial through hole having a first aperture 336 having a first diameter and a second aperture 338 having a second diameter, with the first aperture 336 located at the nose end 332 of the body 330 and the second aperture 338 located at the tail end 334 of the body 330.
• the through hole is configured to engage a third attachment portion 326 which operatively connects the first core portion 320 to the second tubing contact portion 322.
• the tail end 334 includes a recess 340 which is sized to receive a bead or flange of the second tubing contact portion.
• the recess defines a shoulder 342 and a boss 344.
• the body also includes a first circumferential surface 346 which may be moved into and out of supporting contact with the second tubing contact portion.
• the length of the core portion or component 320 is relatively short to enable it to be manipulated through non-linear sections of tubing.
• the nose end 332 and the outermost periphery of the boss 344 are tapered and rounded, respectively. This is done to facilitate movement of the core portion or component 320 as it is manipulated through connection sites such as "T" s and "Y"s or through sharp bends such as elbows.
• the first circumferential surface 346 may be provided with a layer of friction reducing material 348 (shown in dashed lines) if desired.
• the second tubing contact portion 324 comprises a generally cylindrically shaped skirt 350 with an end wall 352, with the skirt 350 and end wall 352 in the shape of a cup.
• the end wall 352 includes an aperture 354 and an axially extending bead or flange 356 which is received within the recess 340 of the first core portion 320.
• the skirt 350 includes a second inwardly facing surface 358 and a third circumferential surface 360, with the second and third surfaces 356, 358 in concentric relation to each other.
• the second inwardly facing surface 358 and the third circumferential surface 360 may be provided with a layer of friction reducing material (shown in dashed lines as 362 and 364, respectively) if desired.
• the third attachment portion 326 comprises a generally cylindrically shaped body having a shank 370 and a head 372.
• the third attachment portion 326 also includes a slot 374 which extends along the longitudinal axis thereof .
• the shank 370 of the third attachment portion 326 is configured to slidingly pass through the aperture 354 in the end wall 352 of the second tubing contact portion 322 and into the second aperture 338 of the through hole where it is operatively engaged.
• the head 372 engages the end wall 352 of the second tubing contact portion 322 and urges the bead 356 into contact with the shoulder 342 of the recess 340 of the first core portion 320.
• the actuation element “E” includes a thinned segment which is provided with a thicker segment or anchor.
• the actuation element “E” may be attached to the insert by feeding it through the nose end 332 of the first core portion and positioning the thinned segment within the slot 374 so that the anchor is adjacent the head 372.
• FIGS. 25, 26, and 27 the operation of the insert is depicted.
• the insert is positioned in a first conjoining configuration.
• the first core portion 320 and the second tubing contact portion 322 are oriented so that the first circumferential surface of the first core portion 322 is in supporting contact with the second inwardly facing surface of the second tubing contact portion, and the third circumferential surface of the second tubing contact portion is in supporting contact with the interior surface of the tubing ends "A" and "B" to be conjoined.
• the tubing end portions are conjoined using an appropriate tube end conjoining apparatus "J" and allowed to cool. As depicted in succeeding FIGS.
• the insert is in transition between the first conjoining configuration and a second removal configuration.
• the first circumferential surface of the first core portion 320 has been partially moved out of supporting contact with the second inwardly facing surface of the second tubing contact portion.
• the second tubing contact portion 322 which is relatively flexible, starts to fold upon itself. This folding is facilitated when the friction between the third circumferential surface and the interior surface of the conjoined tube is greater than the friction between the second inwardly facing surface and the first circumferential surface.
• the insert is in the second removal configuration and has been moved relative to the weldment (referenced by the tube end conjoining apparatus "J") .
• the second removal configuration orients the first core portion so that the first circumferential surface 46 is not in supporting contact with the second inwardly facing surface of the second tubing contact portion 322.
• the second tubing contact portion 322 has continued to fold upon itself so that, in the second removal configuration, it is everted. In this configuration, the positions of the second inwardly facing surface and the third circumferential surface are reversed with the second surface now facing outwardly and the third surface 360 facing inwardly.
• the insert of the alternative embodiment comprises the tubing contact portion as described in FIGS. 23 and 24 Operation of the tubing contact portion is similar to the operation of the insert as described in FIGS. 25, 26, and 27.
• the insert of the alternative embodiment comprises a first core portion 320 and a second tubing contact portion 322.
• This embodiment differs from the preferred embodiment in that the first core portion 320 may be reconfigured as it is being moved from the first conjoining configuration to the second removal configuration.
• the core is depicted as being a helix which operates thusly.
• the first core portion is in a compacted form.
• the first core portion is reconfigured or manipulated into an expanded form.
• the first circumferential surface is brought out of supporting contact with the inwardly facing surface of the second tubing contact surface.
• the insert of the alternative embodiment comprises a first core portion and a second tubing contact portion.
• This embodiment differs from the preferred embodiment in that the second tubing contact portion does not fold upon itself into an everted state. Rather, the second tubing contact portion includes an additional coaxial segment which has an fourth inwardly facing surface and a fifth circumferential surface.
• the fourth and fifth surfaces are larger than and smaller than the first circumferential surface and the interior surfaces of the tubing to be joined, respectively.
• FIGS. 28, 29, and 30 it is understood that such embodiment may include layers of friction reducing material as depicted in FIG. 23.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
• Thermal Sciences (AREA)
• Lining Or Joining Of Plastics Or The Like (AREA)
• Branch Pipes, Bends, And The Like (AREA)

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• 2000
  • 2000-04-18 WO PCT/US2000/010246 patent/WO2000063003A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
  • 2000-04-18 EP EP00923412A patent/EP1173320A4/de not_active Withdrawn
  • 2000-04-18 JP JP2000612119A patent/JP2002542072A/ja active Pending
  • 2000-04-18 AU AU43539/00A patent/AU4353900A/en not_active Abandoned
  • 2000-04-18 GB GB0127533A patent/GB2367785B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
• 2002
  • 2002-09-02 HK HK02106467.9A patent/HK1044741B/zh not_active IP Right Cessation

Non-Patent Citations (2)

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