GB2620592A

GB2620592A - Pipe assembly

Info

Publication number: GB2620592A
Application number: GB2210229.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Evans Roger
Original assignee: Navigator MSL Ltd
Current assignee: Navigator MSL Ltd
Priority date: 2022-07-12
Filing date: 2022-07-12
Publication date: 2024-01-17
Also published as: GB202210229D0

Abstract

A pipe assembly 1 conveys water from a mains water pipe to a tap, the pipe assembly comprises a flexible corrugated pipe 3 with first and second ends. The pipe is formed from stainless-steel. The assembly further comprises a first connector 5 attached to the first end of the corrugated pipe, which connects the corrugated pipe to the mains water pipe, and a second connector 7 attached to the second end of the corrugated pipe, which connects the corrugated pipe to the tap. The pipe can be manually deformable to change from a first shape to a second shape and the pipe self-maintains the first and second shapes. The pipe can include a plurality of evenly distributed, annular ribs which are transverse to a central longitudinal axis of the pipe, distributed along at least part of the length of the pipe. The pipe can comprise an outer sleeve overlying at least part of the length of the pipe, this sleeve optionally being made of plastic, for instance a thermoplastic such as polyvinylchloride (PVC).

Description

PIPE ASSEMBLY

The invention relates to a pipe assembly, in particular a pipe assembly that is arranged to convey water from a mains water pipe to a tap.

Connecting a tap to a mains water pipe can be a difficult job. This is because access to the tap and the mains water pipe is often limited for example by kitchen cupboards or bathroom furniture. In a typical fitted kitchen, a mains water pipe runs along a wall and a spur of the water pipe protrudes into the rear of a cupboard, which supports the sink and adjacent taps. Within that cupboard, there are drainpipes which are connected to the sink, and there may be further drainpipes that are connected to a washing machine, tumble dryer and dishwasher. Furthermore, access to the underside of the taps, i.e. the part of the taps that is connected to the mains water supply pipe, is often partially blocked by the sink, the drains, any other pipework that is present, and further installations such as a water filtration system. Accordingly, making a watertight connection between the mains water pipe and the tap can be challenging, particularly where traditional copper piping is used, since the pathway between the mains water pipe spur within the cupboard and the tap can be tortuous, when having to avoid the drainpipes and sink.

It is known to provide a connector on the mains water pipe spur, and run a flexible hose from the connector to the tap. However, a significant problem with hoses is that when they are bent into shape when bending around drainpipes, etc, is that the transverse cross-section of the hose can collapse, which can reduce the flow of water to the tap. This is very unsatisfactory since it reduces the rate at which water flows out of the tap. Also, over time, hoses are prone to damage and can split leading to significant water leaks. This can occur, at least in part, because some hoses have certain amount of resiliency, which can stress the hose structure the connectors and mains water pipe spur.

It is also known to use hoses with push fit connectors which push directly onto the mains water pipe spur.

Where the hose has a metallic outer structure, it is known to provide the hose with a plastics liner to prevent corrosion occurring. However, the structure of the hose is more complex to manufacture and assemble. Also, since it is the inner diameter of the plastics liner which defines the cross-sectional area of the hose, the size of the outer metallic structure has to be slightly larger to accommodate the inner liner, which means more material overall is required to produce the hose. Since those hoses are manufactured in very large quantities, even a modest material saving per unit can be significant for large scale manufacture.

Accordingly, the invention seeks to provide a piping assembly that addresses at least one of the above-mentioned problems, or at least provides an alternative arrangement to known piping assemblies.

According to one aspect, there is provided a pipe assembly according to claim 1. The invention provides a pipe assembly that is manually deformable to change the shape of the flexible corrugated pipe from a first shape to a second shape without collapsing the transverse cross-section of the flexible corrugated pipe. This ensures that water will always be able to flow through the flexible corrugated pipe at an acceptable flow rate despite the flexible corrugated pipe having been deformed into a tortuous shape in order to connect the pipe assembly to the mains water pipe and the tap. Since the flexible corrugated pipe is made from stainless steel, it does not rust in the presence of water, and does not require an internal coating to prevent oxidation of the flexible corrugated pipe. Accordingly, the pipe assembly is relatively easy to manufacture and assemble. Also, the pipe assembly can be connected to the mains water pipe and tap in an enclosed space without requiring any specialist tooling.

According to another aspect, there is provided a pipe assembly. The pipe assembly can be arranged for conveying water from a mains water pipe to a tap.

The pipe assembly can include a flexible corrugated pipe. The flexible corrugated pipe can have first and second ends.

The flexible corrugated pipe can be made from water resistant material. The flexible corrugated pipe can comprise a malleable material. The flexible corrugated pipe can comprise metal. The flexible corrugated pipe can comprise steel. The flexible corrugated pipe can comprise stainless steel. For embodiments wherein the flexible corrugated pipe is made from stainless steel, the pipe does not rust in the presence of water, and does not require any internal coating to prevent oxidation of the flexible corrugated pipe.

The pipe assembly can include a first connector. The first connector can be arranged to connect the flexible corrugated pipe to the mains water pipe. The first connector can connect with the mains water pipe directly or indirectly. An indirect connection can be via a connector which is attached to the mains water pipe. The first connector can be attached to the first end of the corrugated pipe. The first connector can be sealably attached to the first end of the flexible corrugated pipe.

The pipe assembly can include a second connector. The second connector can be arranged to connect the flexible corrugated pipe to the tap. The second connector can connect with the tap directly or indirectly. An indirect connection can be via a connector which is attached to the tap. The second connector can be attached to the second end of the corrugated pipe. The second connector can be sealably attached to the second end of the corrugated pipe.

The flexible corrugated pipe can be manually deformable, for example to change the shape of the flexible corrugated pipe from a first shape to a second shape, without collapsing the transverse cross-section of the flexible corrugated pipe. This ensures that water is always able to flow through the flexible corrugated pipe at an acceptable flow rate despite the flexible corrugated pipe having been deformed, for example into a tortuous shape in order to connect the pipe assembly to the mains water pipe and the tap.

The flexible corrugated pipe can be arranged to self-maintain the first shape. The flexible corrugated pipe can self-maintain the first shape without applying any load to the flexible corrugated pipe. That is, the flexible corrugated pipe can self-maintain the first shape without continuing to apply the manual load that was used to deform the flexible corrugated pipe into the first shape, or a further load after the first shape was achieved. The first shape can be a shape in which the pipe assembly is sold, for example one of a rectilinear shape and a coiled shape.

The flexible corrugated pipe can be arranged to self-maintain the second shape.

That is, the flexible corrugated pipe can self-maintain the second shape without continuing to apply the manual load that was used to deform the flexible corrugated pipe into the second shape, or a further load after the second shape was achieved. This helps to ensure that the pipe assembly remains in the place and the orientation in which it is installed. The second shape is typically a shape that is required to connect the mains water pipe to the tap. This can be a convoluted or tortuous shape, for example to fit within a cupboard space while avoiding other pipework, equipment and/or drains.

The second shape can include at least one bend, and typically includes a plurality of bends distributed along the length of the flexible corrugated pipe. The second shape can include any practicable number of bends distributed along the length of the flexible corrugated pipe. The flexible corrugated pipe can be bent in any direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the flexible corrugated pipe, at each bend. The second shape can include a first bend located in a first portion of the flexible corrugated pipe. The second shape can include a second bend located in a second portion of the flexible corrugated pipe. The second shape can include a third bend located in a third portion of the flexible corrugated pipe. The second shape can include a fourth bend located in a fourth portion of the flexible corrugated pipe. The second shape can include a fifth bend located in a fifth portion of the flexible corrugated pipe. The second shape can include a sixth bend located in a sixth portion of the flexible corrugated pipe. The second shape can include at least one further bend located at a further portion of the flexible corrugated member. The flexible corrugated pipe can be manually deformable into at least one further shape. The flexible corrugated pipe can be arranged to self-maintain the at least one further shape. This enables the pipe assembly to be reshaped, for example to avoid new objects in the vicinity of the pipe assembly, and/or to be reused for another tap In some embodiments, the flexible corrugated pipe is manually deformable multiple times, each time into a new self-maintaining shape.

The flexible corrugated pipe includes a plurality of corrugations. The corrugations can be in the form of annular ribs and troughs distributed along at least part of the length of the corrugated pipe. The annular ribs and troughs enable the flexible corrugated pipe to be deformed without collapsing the internal transverse cross-section of the pipe, and help to maintain the shape of the pipe when manually deformed. Each annular rib can be arranged transversely to the central longitudinal axis of the flexible corrugated pipe. The plurality of annular ribs can be distributed along the full length of the corrugated pipe. The plurality of annular ribs can be distributed evenly along the length of the corrugated pipe. Each annular rib can be arranged coaxially with a central longitudinal axis of the flexible corrugated pipe.

Each annular rib can be arranged coaxially with a central longitudinal axis of the flexible corrugated pipe, when the flexible corrugated pipe has the first shape. Each annular rib can be arranged coaxially with a central longitudinal axis of the flexible corrugated pipe, when the flexible corrugated pipe has the second shape.

The width of each rib is typically in the range 0.5mm to 2mm, and is preferably around lmm. The width is measured in the longitudinal direction of the flexible corrugated pipe.

Each pair of adjacent annular ribs can be separated by one of the troughs. The width of each trough is typically in the range 0.5mm to 2mm, and is preferably around lmm. The width is measured in the longitudinal direction of the flexible corrugated pipe.

The flexible corrugated pipe is typically made from sheet material, which is rolled to form a tube, and is subsequently welded to fix the tubular shape. A crimping machine can be used to form the ribs in the tube to produce the flexible corrugated pipe.

The corrugated pipe can include n annular ribs per centimetre of length of the flexible corrugated pipe. n can be greater than or equal to 2, and preferably is greater than or equal to 3. n can be less than or equal to 6, and preferably is less than or equal to 5. In some embodiments, n can be around 4 ribs per centimetre.

The maximum outside diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe can be greater than or equal to 6mm, preferably is greater than or equal to 8mm, and more preferably is greater than or equal to lOmm. The maximum outside diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe can be less than or equal to 20mm, preferably is less than or equal to 18mm, more preferably is less than or equal to 16mm, and more preferably still is less than or equal to 14mm. In some embodiments, the maximum outside diameter of the corrugated tube can be approximately lOmm. In some embodiments, the maximum outside diameter of the corrugated tube can be approximately 12mm. The maximum outside diameter of the corrugated tube is measured diametrically across an annular rib.

The minimum internal diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe can be greater than or equal to 4mm, preferably is greater than or equal to 6mm, and more preferably is greater than or equal to 8mm. The minimum internal diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe can be less than or equal to 18 millimetres, preferably is less than or equal to 16mm, more preferably is less than or equal to 14mm, and more preferably still is less than or equal to 12mm. In some embodiments, the minimum internal diameter is approximately 8mm. In some embodiments, the minimum internal diameter can be approximately lOmm. The minimum internal diameter of the corrugated pipe is measured diametrically across an annular trough.

The flexible corrugated pipe can include an outer sleeve that overlies at least part of the length of the corrugated pipe. Preferably, the outer sleeve overlies the full length of the corrugated pipe.

The outer sleeve can comprise a plastics sleeve The plastic sleeve can comprise a thermoplastic, such as polyvinylchloride (PVC).

The first connector can be connected to the mains water pipe directly or indirectly without the need for specialist tooling. The first connector can include a screw thread. The screw thread can be an internal screw thread. The screw thread can be arranged to engage with a complementary screw thread, which is part of the mains water pipe, or which is part of a connector attached to the mains water pipe.

Preferably the screw thread can comprise a 1/2 inch BSP to EN Standard screw thread. The internal screw thread of the first connector can engage with an external screw thread on mains water pipe, or on a connector attached to the mains water Pipe.

The first connector can comprise a swivel nut assembly. The swivel nut assembly can include an end piece, which is connected to the first end of the flexible corrugated pipe. The end piece can include a tubular body. The end piece can include a flange, which protrudes outwards from the tubular body. The flange can be arranged generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the flexible corrugated pipe. The first end of the flexible corrugated pipe can be fitted into the tubular body. The tubular body can be sized and shaped for an interference fit with fist end of the flexible corrugated pipe. The tubular body can be welded to the first end of the flexible corrugated pipe. The tubular body can be connected to the flexible corrugated pipe in a manner such that, in use, water flows through the tubular body. The swivel nut assembly can include a nut. The nut can be arranged to rotate freely about the circumference of the flexible corrugated pipe. The nut can be arranged to move translationally along the flexible corrugated pipe. The nut can have the internal screw thread. The nut can include an internal shoulder. The internal shoulder can be arranged to engage the flange as the nut is screwed onto a water mains pipe. The flange can have a larger outer diameter than an internal diameter of the shoulder. Thus the flange prevents the nut from falling off the flexible corrugated pipe, and the nut holds the first end of the flexible corrugated pipe in engagement with the mains water pipe.

The first connector can include a seal, and preferably an annular seal. The annular seal can comprise a gasket. The gasket can be located within the swivel nut. The gasket is compressed by the nut when attached to the mains water pipe.

The second connector can be connected to the tap directly or indirectly without the need for specialist tooling. The second connector can include a screw thread.

The screw thread can be an external screw thread. The screw thread can be arranged to engage with a complementary screw thread which can be part of the tap or a connector attached to the tap.

The external screw thread of the second connector can engage with an internal screw thread on the tap, or on the connector attached to the tap.

The second connector can comprise an M12 or an M10 male tap connector.

The second connector can include a seal. The seal can be an annular seal. The seal can comprise an 0-ring.

The second connector can include a second seal. The second seal can be an annular seal. The second seal can comprise an 0-ring.

The second connector can comprise a tubular body. The tubular body can have a first end. The tubular body can have a second end. The tubular body is preferably cylindrical. The first end of the tubular body is connected to a second end of the flexible corrugated pipe. The tubular body can be connected to the flexible corrugated pipe in a manner such that, in use, water flows through the tubular body.

A first circumferential groove can be formed in an outer surface of the tubular body. The 0-ring can be seated in the circumferential groove. A second circumferential groove can be formed in an outer surface the tubular body. The second 0-ring can be seated in the second circumferential groove. The second circumferential groove can be spaced apart from the circumferential groove in the longitudinal direction of the elongate body.

The external screw thread can be located towards the second end of the tubular body. The tubular body can include a hexagonal formation. The hexagonal formation is arranged to be engaged by a tool, such as a spanner. The hexagonal formation can be located adjacent the first end of the tubular body. At least one of the circumferential groove and the second circumferential groove can be located between the hexagonal formation and the external screw thread.

The length of the pipe assembly is typically greater than or equal to 20cm, and preferably greater than or equal to 30cm, and more preferably greater than or equal to 40cm. The length of the pipe assembly is typically less than or equal to 100cm, and preferably less than or equal to 90cm, more preferably less than or equal to 80cm, and more preferably still less than or equal to 70cm.

According to another aspect there is provided a mains water system. The mains water system can include: a mains water pipe; a tap; and a pipe assembly according to any configuration herein connecting the mains water pipe to the tap.

The mains water system can include a connector attached to the mains water pipe, which is arranged to connect with the first connector. The mains water system can include a connector attached to the tap that is arranged to connect with the second connector, The mains water pipe can include a valve that enables the tap to be isolated from the mains water supply. Preferably the mains water pipe connector includes the valve.

The mains water system can be for a building such as a domestic residence or an office.

According to another aspect there is provided a pipe assembly arranged for conveying fluids. The pipe assembly can include: a flexible corrugated pipe haying first and second ends, wherein the flexible corrugated pipe is made from a material that does not corrode in the presence of water; a first connector attached to the first end of the corrugated pipe; and a second connector attached to the second end of the corrugated pipe. The pipe assembly can be arranged according to any configuration described herein The various aspects of the present invention can be practiced alone or in combination with one or more of the other aspects, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant arts. The various aspects of the invention can optionally be provided in combination with one or more of the optional features of the other aspects of the invention. Also, optional features described in relation to one aspect can typically be combined alone or together with other features in different aspects of the invention. Any subject matter described in this specification can be combined with any other subject matter in the specification to form a novel combination.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the drawings, wherein: Figure 1 is a partial side view and a partial cross-sectional view of a pipe assembly according to a first embodiment of the invention, having a first shape; Figure 2 is an isometric view of the pipe assembly of Figure 2 bent into a second shape; Figure 3 is an isometric view of the pipe assembly of Figure 2 bent into a third shape; and Figure 4 is an isometric view of the pipe assembly of Figure 2 bent into a fourth shape, and Figure 5 is a partial side view and a partial cross-sectional view of a pipe assembly according to a second embodiment of the invention.

Figures 1 to 4 show a pipe assembly 1 in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention. The pipe assembly I includes a flexible corrugated pipe 3, a first connector 5, and a second connector 7.

A "corrugated pipe-is sometimes referred to as a "convoluted pipe". Accordingly, for the purposes of this description, the terms "corrugated pipe" and "convoluted pipe" are considered interchangeable.

The flexible corrugated pipe 3 is made from a corrosion resistant material, and preferably a corrosion resistant metal. In some embodiments, the flexible corrugated pipe 3 is made from a corrosion resistant steel, such as stainless steel. In some embodiments AISI 316L stainless steel is used. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant in the presence of water and therefore will not rust when functioning as a water pipe. Since stainless steel does not rust, there is no need to include a plastics liner between the stainless steel and the water.

The corrugated pipe 3 is formed by rolling a sheet of stainless steel into a tube, welding the edges to fix the shape of the tube, and then crimping the tube to form multiple corrugations in the tube. Each corrugation comprises an annular rib 8. Each annual rib 8 is formed co-axially with a central longitudinal axis Z-Z of the tube, and thus the annular rib 8 extends around the circumference of the tube and is arranged transversely to the central longitudinal axis ZZ. The annular ribs 8 are evenly spaced along the length off the tube. Each adjacent pair of annular ribs 8 is separated by an annular trough 9. The width RW of an annular rib 8 is typically in the range 0.5mm to 2mm, and is preferably around lmm. The width RW of an annular rib 8 is measured in the longitudinal direction of the tube. The width TW of an annular trough 9 is typically in the range 0.5mm to 2mm, and is preferably around lmm. The width TW of an annular trough 9 is measured in the longitudinal direction of the tube. There are n ribs per centimetre of length of tube. Typically, n is in the range 2 to 6, and preferably 3 to 5. In some embodiments, there are around 4 ribs per centimetre of length of tube.

The minimum internal diameter of the corrugated pipe 3 ID for the N112 arrangement shown in Figure 1, is preferably lOmm The minimum internal diameter of the corrugated pipe is measured diametrically across an annular trough.

The maximum outside diameter of the corrugated pipe 3 OD for the M12 arrangement shown in Figure 1, is preferably 13mm The maximum outside diameter of the corrugated tube is measured diametrically across an annular rib.

The flexible corrugated pipe 3 is manually deformable to change the shape of the flexible corrugated pipe 3 from a first shape to a second shape without collapsing the transverse cross-section of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. This ensures that water is always able to flow through the flexible corrugated pipe 3 at an acceptable flow rate despite the flexible corrugated pipe 3 having been deformed into a tortuous shape in order to connect the pipe assembly 1 to the mains water pipe and the tap. It is the corrugated arrangement of the flexible corrugated pipe 3 that prevents the pipe 3 from collapsing when bent. Furthermore, the structure of the flexible corrugated pipe 3 is such that the pipe 3 self-maintains its shape when deformed into a new shape. For example, the flexible corrugated pipe 3 is manually deformable to change from a first shape to a second shape. The first shape is typically a shape in which the pipe assembly 1 is sold, for example the first shape can be a rectilinear shape (see Figure 1) or a coiled shape. The second shape can be any shape required to connect the mains water pipe to the tap, considering the context in which the pipe assembly 1 is installed, for example to bend around drainpipes, sinks, other piping and/or equipment installed adjacent the tap. The second shape can be a convoluted and/or tortuous shape. An example of a second shape is shown in Figure 2.

The corrugated pipe 1 is arranged to self-maintain the first shape. The flexible corrugated pipe 3 is able to self-maintain the first shape without applying any load to the flexible corrugated pipe 3. That is, the flexible corrugated pipe 3 is able to self-maintain the first shape without continuing to apply the manual load that was used to deform the flexible corrugated pipe into the first shape, or a further load after the first shape was achieved. The flexible corrugated pipe 3 is able to self-maintain the second shape. The flexible corrugated pipe 3 is able to self-maintain the second shape without applying any load to the flexible corrugated pipe 3. That is, the flexible corrugated pipe 3 is able to self-maintain the second shape without continuing to apply the manual load that was used to deform the flexible corrugated pipe 3 into the second shape, or a further load after the second shape was achieved. This helps to ensure that the pipe assembly 1 remains in the place and the orientation in which it is installed. It is thought that the malleable nature of the flexible corrugated pipe 3, and its corrugated structure, enables the pipe 3 to self-maintain its shape.

The second shape can include at least one bend, and typically includes a plurality of bends 1 la-f distributed along the length of the flexible corrugated pipe 3, without the transvers cross-sectional area of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. Figure 2 shows 6 bends for illustration purposes. Each bend 11 a-f can have different radius of curvature, although it will be appreciated that it is possible for at least two bends lla-f to have the same radius of curvature. The flexible corrugated pipe 3 can be bent in any direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. The second shape can include a first bend 11 a located in a first portion of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. The second shape can include a second bend I lb located in a second portion of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. The second shape can include a third bend 11 c located in a third portion of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. The second shape can include a fourth bend I Id located in a fourth portion of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. The second shape can include a fifth bend I le located in a fifth portion of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. The second shape can include at least one further bend 11 f located at a further portion of the flexible corrugated member 3.

The extent to which the flexible corrugated pipe 3 can bend is largely dependent on the axial distance between the rib 8 peaks and the depth of the corrugation. For example, in the N412 arrangement shown in Figure the distance between two rib 8 peaks is approximately 3mm and the depth of the corrugation is approximately 1.5mm. Of course, these dimensions can be adjusted to any practicable size to suit the application.

The flexible corrugated pipe 3 can be manually deformable into at least one further shape, wherein the flexible corrugated pipe 3 is arranged to self-maintain the at least one further shape. This enables the pipe assembly 1 to be reshaped, for example to avoid new objects in the vicinity of the pipe assembly, and/or to be reused for another tap. Examples of further shapes are shown in Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 shows 5 bends 11a-e and Figure 4 shows 3 bends I la-c for illustration purposes. Typically, the flexible corrugated pipe 3 is manually deformable multiple times into new self-maintaining shapes.

Optionally, the outer surface of the corrugated pipe 3 can be covered with a plastics cover 13. The plastics cover 13 can be made from a thermoplastic such as polyvinylchloride (PVC). The plastics cover 13 can be coloured blue, for example to indicate that the water pipe is a cold water pipe. The plastics cover 13 can be coloured red, for example to indicate that the water pipe is a hot water pipe.

The first connector 5 is arranged to connect the pipe assembly 1 to a mains water pipe (not shown), either directly or indirectly, for example via a connector that is attached to the mains water pipe.

The first connector 5 preferably comprises a swivel nut assembly. The swivel nut assembly includes an end piece 15, which is fixed to a first end 17 of the flexible corrugated pipe 3, and a nut 19. The end piece 15 comprises: a tubular body 21; and a flange 23. The end piece 15 is preferably made from stainless steel. The tubular body 21 has a central passageway 21a. The tubular body 21 has a first end and a second end. The first end of the tubular body 21 is mounted onto the first end 17 of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. The tubular body 21 can be fixed to the first end 17 of the flexible corrugated pipe 3 by any suitable means that provides a sealed arrangement, such that water does not leak from the joint, for example by using at least one of an interference fit and welding. The tubular body 21 is fixed to the first end 17 of the flexible corrugated pipe 3 in a manner that enables water flowing through the flexible corrugated pipe 3 to flow through the passageway 21a.

The flange 23 protrudes perpendicularly outwards from the second end of the tubular body 21 The nut 19 is free to move relative to the end piece 15. The nut 19 can move both rotationally and translationally relative to the end piece 15. The nut 19 includes an internal shoulder 19a towards one end. The flange 23 and the internal shoulder 19a are sized and shaped to engage with one another, thereby maintaining the nut 19 on the flexible corrugated pipe 3. The nut 19 is preferably made from stainless steel.

The nut 19 has an internal screw thread 25, which is arranged to engage an external screw thread on the mains water pipe or a connector mounted on the mains water pipe. The internal screw thread 25 is preferably 1/2" British Standard Pipe (BSP) to EN Standard screw thread.

The swivel nut assembly includes a seal 27, preferably in the form of a gasket. The gasket sits within the nut 19, and is seated on the flange 23 The seal 27 can be made from rubber or a synthetic rubber such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EDP1\1) When the nut 19 is mated with the external screw thread on the mains water pipe or a connector mounted on the mains water pipe, a sealed connection is made between the mains water pipe and the pipe assembly 1. The shoulder 19a of the nut engages with the flange 23, thereby compressing the gasket 21 against the mains water pipe / a connector mounted on the mains water pipe.

The second connector 7 is arranged to connect the pipe assembly 1 to a tap for dispensing water. The tap can be used in any suitable context for example in a residence or office, such as a kitchen tap, bathroom tap, utility room tap, etc. The second connector 7 can be arranged to engage the tap directly or indirectly, for example via a connector attached to the tap. Preferably the second connector 7 is a male tap connector, for example an M12 male tap connector.

The second connector 12 includes a tubular body 29. The tubular body 29 is preferably made from stainless steel. The tubular body 29 has a central through passageway 3 L The tubular body 29 has a first end and a second end. The first end of the tubular body 29 is mounted onto a second end 33 of the flexible corrugated pipe 3. The tubular body 29 can be fixed to the second end 33 of the flexible corrugated pipe 3 by any suitable means that provides a sealed arrangement, such that water does not leak from the joint, for example by using at least one of an interference fit and welding. The tubular body 29 is fixed to the second end 33 of the flexible corrugated pipe 3 in a manner that enables water flowing through the flexible corrugated pipe 3 to flow through the passageway 33.

The tubular body 29 has an external screw thread 35. The external screw thread 35 is located towards the second end of the tubular body. A 12mm diameter screw thread is shown in Figure 1.

The tubular body 29 includes a hexagonal formation 37, which is located towards 10 the first end of the tubular body 29. The hexagonal formation can be engaged by a tool, such as a spanner, to tighten the connector to the tap.

The second connector 7 includes at least one seal. The second connector can include a first seal 39. The first seal 39 is preferably an annular seal. For example, the first seal 39 can comprise an 0-ring. The first seal 39 can be made from rubber, or a synthetic rubber such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (17,131)N4). A first circumferential groove 41 can be formed an outer surface of the tubular body 29. The first circumferential groove 41 is arranged cc.)-a.xi ally with the central longitudinal axis Z-Z. The first seal 39 is seated in first circumferential groove 41, and therefore the first seal 39 is arranged co-axially with the central longitudinal axis Z-Z. The first seal 39 is positioned along the tubular body such that it is located between the hexagonal formation 37 and the external screw thread 35.

Optionally, the second connector 7 can include a second seal 43 (see Figure 2). The second seal 43 is preferably an annular seal. For example, the second seal 43 can comprise an 0-ring. The second seal 43 can be made from rubber, or a synthetic rubber such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EDPM.). A second circumferential groove 45 can be formed an outer surface of the tubular body 29. The second circumferential groove 45 is arranged co-axially with the central longitudinal axis Z-Z. The second seal 43 is seated in second circumferential groove 45, and therefore the second seal 43 is arranged co-axially with the central longitudinal axis Z-2: The second seal 43 is positioned along the tubular body such that it is located between the hexagonal formation 37 and the external screw thread 35, but is spaced apart from the first annular seal 39 in the longitudinal direct of the tubular body 29.

The length L of pipe assembly 1 can be any practicable length. Typically, the length L of the pipe assembly 1 is in the range 100cm to 20cm. For example, the approximate length L of the pipe assembly 1 can be 20cm, 30cm, 40cm, 50cm, 60cm, 70cm, 80cm, 90cm, 100cm.

Figure 5 shows a second embodiment of the invention. The second embodiment is similar to the first embodiment, except that the second connector 7 has a different shape from the first embodiment. The second connector 7 has a longer length, which is better suited to some applications.

It will be appreciated by the skilled person that modifications can be made to the above embodiments that fall within the scope of the invention, for example the dimensions provided for the above embodiments relate to an MI2 version, that is, the external thread on the male tap connector 7 has an outside diameter of 12mm. It is envisioned that the invention can be made with other sized connectors, with the other dimensions being adjusted according. For example, the invention can be produced in an MI0 version. In the M 10 version, the minimum internal diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe 3 is 8mm, the maximum outside diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe 3 is 1 lmm, the external screw thread for the second connector is lOmm diameter thread, and the nut 19 has a 1/2" BSP to EN Standard thread.

Of course, any practicable sizes for each of the relevant dimensions can apply. For example, the minimum internal diameter of the corrugated pipe 3 ID is typically in the range 6mm to 14mm, and is preferably in the range 8 to lOmm. The minimum internal diameter of the corrugated pipe is measured diametrically across an annular trough. The maximum outside diameter of the corrugated pipe 3 OD is typically in the range 8mm to 16mm, and is preferably in the range 10 to 14mm. The maximum outside diameter of the corrugated tube is measured diametrically across an annular rib It will be appreciated that a different first connector can be fixed to the flexible corrugated pipe 3 in order to mate with a different connector / connecting formation on the mains water pipe.

It will be appreciated that a different second connector can be fixed to the flexible corrugated pipe 3 in order to mate with a different connector / connecting formation on the mains water pipe.

The mains water pipe can include a valve that enables the tap to be isolated from 10 the mains water supply. Preferably the mains water pipe connector includes the valve.

The description presents exemplary embodiments and, together with the drawings, serves to explain principles of the invention. However, the scope of the invention is not intended to be limited to the precise details of the embodiments or exact adherence with all method installation steps, since variations will be apparent to a skilled person and are deemed also to be covered by the claims. Terms for components used herein should be given a broad interpretation that also encompasses equivalent functions and features. In some cases, several alternative terms (synonyms) for structural features have been provided but such terms are not intended to be exhaustive.

Descriptive terms should also be given the broadest possible interpretation; e.g. the term "comprising" as used in this specification means "including" such that interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner. Directional terms such as "vertical", "horizontal-, "up", "down", "upper" and "lower" may be used for convenience of explanation usually with reference to the iflustrations and are not intended to be ultimately limiting if an equivalent function can be achieved with an alternative dimension and/or direction.

The description herein refers to embodiments with particular combinations of configuration steps or features, however, it is envisaged that further combinations and cross-combinations of compatible steps or features between embodiments will be possible. Indeed, isolated features may function independently as an invention from other features and not necessarily require implementation as a complete combination. Any feature from an embodiment can be isolated from that embodiment and included in any other embodiment.

Claims

CLAIMS1 A pipe assembly arranged for conveying water from a mains water pipe to a tap, the pipe assembly including: a flexible corrugated pipe having first and second ends, wherein the flexible corrugated pipe comprises stainless steel; a first connector sealably attached to the first end of the corrugated pipe, the first connector being arranged to connect the flexible corrugated pipe to the mains water pipe; and a second connector sealably attached to the second end of the corrugated pipe, the second connector being arranged to connect the flexible corrugated pipe to the tap.
2 The pipe assembly of claim 1, wherein the flexible corrugated pipe is manually deformable to change from a first shape to a second shape, wherein the flexible corrugated pipe is arranged to self-maintain the first and second shapes
3 The pipe assembly of claim 1 or 2, wherein the flexible corrugated pipe includes a plurality of annular ribs distributed along at least part of the length of the corrugated pipe.
4. The pipe assembly of claim 3, wherein the ribs are arranged transversely to a central longitudinal axis of the flexible corrugated pipe.
The pipe assembly of claim 3 or 4, wherein the annular ribs are evenly distributed along at least part of the length of the flexible corrugated pipe
6. The pipe assembly of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the corrugated pipe includes n annular ribs per centimetre of length of the flexible corrugated pipe.
7. The pipe of claim 6, wherein n is greater than or equal to 2, and preferably greater than or equal to 3.
8. The pipe assembly claim 6 or 7, wherein n is less than or equal to 6, and preferably less than or equal to 5.
9 The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the maximum outside diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe is greater than or equal to 6mm, preferably greater than or equal to 8mm, and more preferably greater than or equal to lOmm.
10. The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the maximum outside diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe is less than or equal to 20mm, preferably less than or equal to 18mm, more preferably greater than or equal to 16mm, and more preferably still greater than or equal to 14mm.
11. The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the minimum internal diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe is greater than or equal to 4mm, preferably greater than or equal to 6mm, and more preferably is greater than or equal to 8mm.
12 The pipe assembly of anyone of the preceding claims, wherein the minimum internal diameter of the flexible corrugated pipe is less than or equal to 18 mm, preferably is less than or equal to 16mm, more preferably is less than or equal to 14mm, and more preferably still is less than or equal to 12mm.
13. The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible corrugated pipe includes an outer sleeve that overlies at least part of the length of the corrugated pipe.
14. The pipe assembly of claim 13, wherein the outer sleeve comprises a plastics sleeve.
15. The pipe assembly of claim 14, wherein the plastic sleeve comprises a thermoplastic, such as polyvinylchloride (PVC).
16. The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector includes a tubular body, wherein the tubular body is connected to the flexible corrugated pipe in a manner such that, in use, water flows through the tubular body.
17. The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector includes a screw thread
18. The pipe assembly of claim 17, wherein the screw thread includes an internal screw thread.
19. The pipe assembly of claim 17 or 18, wherein the first connector comprises a swivel nut assembly.
20. The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connector includes a seal, and preferably an annular seal.
21 The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second connector includes a tubular body, wherein the tubular body is connected to the flexible corrugated pipe in a manner such that, in use, water flows through the tubular body.
22. The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second connector includes a screw thread
23. The pipe assembly of claim 22, wherein the screw thread includes an external screw thread.
24. The pipe assembly of claim 22 or 23, wherein the second connector comprises an M12 or M10 male tap connector.
25. The pipe assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second connector includes a seal, and preferably an annular seal.
26. The pipe assembly of claim 25, wherein the second connector includes a second seal.
27.A pipe assembly arranged for conveying fluids, the pipe assembly including: a flexible corrugated pipe having first and second ends, wherein the flexible corrugated pipe is made from a material that does not corrode in the presence of water; a first connector attached to the first end of the corrugated pipe, the nfl first connector being arranged to connect directly or indirectly with a fluid supply pipe; and a second connector attached to the second end of the corrugated pipe, the second connector being arranged to connect directly or indirectly with a tap.
28.A mains water system for a building, including: a mains water pipe; a tap; and a pipe assembly according to any one of the preceding claims connecting the mains water pipe to the tap.
29. The mains system of claim 28, including a connector attached to the mains water pipe that is arranged to connect with the first connector; and/or a connector attached to the tap that is arranged to connect with the second connector.