NO20170054A1 - Pipe connector - Google Patents

Description

PIPE CONNECTOR

FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to pipeline connectors and, more particularly, to top-side mechanical pipeline connectors.

SUMMARY

[0002] Top-side mechanical pipeline connectors are often used to connect pipelines that transport various fluids (e.g., water, waste, drainage, etc.) or are used for venting purposes. Various small pipeline connectors exist using several methods of pipe gripping, such as swaging, biting, pressing, flaring, machine grooved, and slit type methods. However, these gripping methods may involve deforming or machimng the pipe such that the pipe would be permanently changed in shape.

[0003] In one independent aspect, a pipe connector for connecting pipes in a pipeline is provided. The connector may generally include an outer body defining a cavity; a first gripping ring supported in the cavity, the first gripping ring defining a scarf cut to allow the first gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; a second gripping ring proximate the first gripping ring; and an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the first gripping ring and the second gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the first gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause at least the first gripping ring to engage the one of the pipes.

[0004] ln another independent aspect, a pipe connector may generally include an outer body defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity; a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a scarf cut to allow the gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress the gripping ring; a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, the seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the one of the pipes; and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore, axial inward movement of the end nut causing axial inward movement of the seal ram to compress the seal.

[0005] In yet another independent aspect, a method of assembling a pipe connector to at least one pipe in a pipeline is provided. The connector may include an outer body defining a cavity, a first gripping ring supported in the cavity, the first gripping ring defining a scarf cut, a second gripping ring proximate the first gripping ring, and an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the first gripping ring and the second gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the first gripping ring. The method may generally include inserting a first pipe into the connector; and moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause at least the first gripping ring to engage the first pipe.

[0006] In a further independent aspect, the connector may generally include an outer body including defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity, a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a scarf cut, an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore. The method may generally include inserting a first pipe into the connector; moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the first pipe; and moving the seal ram axially inwardly relative to the outer body by axial inward movement of the end nut to compress the seal between a component of the connector and the first pipe.

[0007] In another independent aspect, the connector may generally include an outer body defining a cavity; a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap to allow the gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; and an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the one of the pipes.

[0008] In yet another independent aspect, a pipe connector may generally include an outer body defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity; a gripping ring

supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap to allow the gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress the gripping ring; a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, the seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the one of the pipes; and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore, axial inward movement of the end nut causing axial inward movement of the seal ram to compress the seal.

[0009] In a further independent aspect, a method of assembling a pipe connector to at least one pipe in a pipeline is provided. The connector may include an outer body defining a cavity, a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap, and an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring. The method may generally include inserting a first pipe into the connector; and moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the first pipe.

[0010] In another independent aspect, the connector may generally include an outer body including defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity, a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap, an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore. The method may generally include inserting a first pipe into the connector; moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the first pipe; and moving the seal ram axially inwardly relative to the outer body by axial inward movement of the end nut to compress the seal between a component of the connector and the first pipe.

[0011] In yet another independent aspect, a pipe connector may generally include an outer body defining a cavity; a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap to allow the gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the one of the pipes; and a pin movably positioned in the gap to limit compression of the gripping ring during movement of the end nut.

[0012] In a further independent aspect, a method of assembling a pipe connector to at least one pipe in a pipeline is provided. The connector may include an outer body defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity, a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap, an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, a pin movably positioned in the gap, a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore. The method may generally include inserting a first pipe into the connector; moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to cause the gripping ring to engage the pin to limit compression of the gripping ring toward the first pipe; and moving the seal ram axially inwardly relative to the outer body by axial inward movement of the end nut to compress the seal between a component of the connector and the first pipe; thereafter, removing the pin from the gap; and thereafter, moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the first pipe.

[0013] Independent features and independent advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the detailed description, drawings and claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a pipe connector in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0015] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the pipe connector of FIG. 1, illustrating components from both sides of the pipe connector.

[0016] FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the pipe connector of FIG. 1, illustrating components from a single side of the pipe connector.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe connector of FIG. 1.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 1, illustrating the gap between an end nut and an outer body at a maximum distance.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 1, illustrating the gap between the end nut and the outer body at a reduced distance.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 1, illustrating the gap between the end nut and the outer body at a further reduced distance corresponding to a desired activation gap size.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 1 installed in a pipeline, illustrating the pressure test port.

[0022] FIG. 9 is multiple perspective views of various components of a hand-held extemal activation system used to activate the pipe connector of FIG. 1.

[0023] FIG. 10 is multiple perspective views of the pipe connector of FIG. 1 in combination with the hand-help external activation system of FIG. 9 at various stages of installation.

[0024] FIG. 11 is multiple perspective views of the pipe connector of FIG. 1 in combination with the hand-help external activation system of FIG. 9 at various stages of installation.

[0025] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 1 installed in a pipeline, illustrating the pressure test port.

[0026] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a pipe connector in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention.

[0027] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe connector of FIG. 13, illustrating the pipe connector in engagement with two connected pipes.

[0028] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 13, illustrating the gap between a gripping sleeve and a seal sleeve at a maximum distance.

[0029] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 13, illustrating the gap between the gripping sleeve and the seal sleeve at a reduced distance.

[0030] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 13, illustrating the gap between the gripping sleeve and the seal sleeve at a further reduced distance corresponding to a desired activation gap size.

[0031] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 13, illustrating the pressure test port.

[0032] F1GS. 19A-19C illustrate various views of a gripping ring.

[0033] FIG. 20 is an exploded view of a pipe connector including the gripping ring shown in FIGS. 19A-19C.

[0034] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe connector of FIG. 20.

[0035] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the pipe connector of FIG. 20.

[0036] FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 20, illustrating the gap between an end nut and an outer body at a maximum distance.

[0037] FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 20, illustrating the gap between the end nut and the outer body at a reduced distance.

[0038] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 20, illustrating the gap between the end nut and the outer body at a further reduced distance corresponding to a desired activation gap size.

[0039] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 20 installed in a pipeline, illustrating the pressure test port.

[0040] FIG. 27 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a pipe connector in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the invention.

[0041] FIGS. 28A-28B are views of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 27 prepared for installation.

[0042] FIGS. 29A-29B are views of the portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 27 after initial turning of the end nut.

[0043] FIG. 30 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 27 after continued turning of the end nut.

[0044] FIG. 31 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 27 with the pin removed.

[0045] FIGS. 32A-32B are views of the portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 27 after further turning of the end nut.

[0046] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a gripping ring of the pipe connector of FIG. 27.

[0047] FIGS. 34A-34E are views of a portion of the pipe connector of FIG. 27.

[0048] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of an alternative construction of an end nut, a gripping ring and dowel pins.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Before any independent embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set fortn in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other independent embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Use of "including" and "comprising" and variations thereof as used herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Use of "consisting of and variations thereof as used herein is meant to encompass only the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof.

[0050] FIGS. 1 -4 illustrate a grip-lock pipeline connector 10 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The illustrated connector 10 is substantially symmetric about a center vertical axis, with respect to FIG. 1, and any feature or element referenced on one side connector 10 equally pertains to the mirrored feature or elements on the other side of the connector 10. As an example, the connector 10 may be for above ground use on pipelines P (FIG. 8) in the range of 1 inch to 4 inches and håving a pressure rating of about class 150 (i.e., 31 bar). In some embodiments, the connector 10 may have a pressure rating of about class 300 (i.e., 78 bar).

[0051] The connector 10 includes an outer body 14 and a pair of end nuts 18 that move axially (i.e., along the longitudinal axis of the connector 10) inwardly and outwardly with respect to the body 14 for compressing various components held within a cavity defined by the connector 10. The connector 10 is configured to grip onto and fluidly connect a first pipe 22 and a second pipe 26 (FIG. 8) of a pipeline P. The end nuts 18 and other various other components of the connector 10 to be described below each define a cylindrical opening or bore 28 for receiving the end portions of the pipes 22,26.

[0052] The body 14 has a center abutment 30 protruding into the cavity near the middle. A seal sleeve or ram 34 is positioned on each side of the abutment 30, and gaps 38 are defined between opposite portions of the abutment 30 and the seal rams 34. The seal rams 34 are movable inwardly with respect to the body 14 (i.e., toward the abutment 30) to reduce the size of the gaps 38. The body 14 defines a plurality of outer body drive holes 40.

[0053] While referred to as a "center abutment", the abutment 30 does not necessarily provide a reaction surface against which one of the pipes 22,26 engages. The center abutment 30 generally guides and centralizes the pipes 22,26 and has a width to accommodate an open tolerance for pipe insertion. For example, FIG. 8 illustrates that the ends of the pipes 22,26 do not need to engage a reaction surface of the abutment 30, or each other, but can be provided in a spaced relationship within a region defined by the center abutment 30.

[0054] The abutment 30 and the seal rams 34 each include an engagement surface 42,46,

respectively, to compress, therebetween a number of seals (e.g., two seals 50) when the seal rams 34 are moved axially inwardly. The multiple seals 50 are axially spaced apart by seal spacers 54 and scarfed, wire-type, anti-extrusion rings 58 (AERs). A void 62 is defined axially between the seals 50 (e.g., in the seal spacer 54) on each side of the abutment 30.

[0055] When the seal rams 34 move axially inwardly (i.e., toward the abutment 30), the material of the seals 50 compresses and is forced radially inwardly to engage the outer surface of the associated pipe 22,26 to form a pressure tight seal. When compressed axially, the seal 50 extrudes radially inwardly and outwardly to provide a seal between the exterior surface of the associated pipe 22,26 and a component of the connector 10 (e.g., the irmer surface of the body 14 in the illustrated construction).

[0056] The illustrated seals 50 are of the type used in the commercially available line of engineered mechanical subsea connectors manufactured by Hydratight Limited. The seal 50 may be, for example, 98% pure exfoliated graphite. The seal 50 may include a laminate graphite sheet and/or be ribbon spun or spiral-wound around a mandrel into a mold that can be subsequently manipulated into a suitable construction (e.g., size, shape, etc.) for the connector 10. In other constructions, the seal 50 may include any of a variety of other seal packing materials.

[0057] In the illustrated construction, the seals 50 are prevented from extruding into gaps between the pipes 22,26 and adjacent components of the connector 10 by the anti-extrusion rings 58, which can close down onto (i.e., move radially inwardly with respect to) the pipes 22, 26. Specifically, components (e.g., the abutment 30, the seal spacers 54, and the seal rams 34) adjacent the rings 58 include slanted engagement surfaces 66, which function as ramps to direct the rings 58 radially inwardly.

[0058] As the seals 50 and, more specifically, the top portion of the seals 50, are compressed, the bottom portions of the seals 50 expand. This forces the rings 58 into further engagement with the slanted surfaces 66, which directs the rings 58 radially inwardly. The rings 58 include a spiral or scarf cut 70 such that they are able to contract (i.e., decrease in diameter) or expand (i.e., increase in diameter) without plastically deforming.

[0059] The illustrated seal rams 34 are at least partially received by an opening defined by the end nuts 18. Gaps 74 are defined between opposite portions of the body 14 and the end nuts 18. The gaps 74 allow the end nuts 18 to move inwardly with respect to body 14 (i.e., toward the seal rams 34 and abutment 30) to reduce the size of the gaps 74. To facilitate this inward movement, the end nuts 18 include a plurality of drive holes 78 and a threaded region engaging a complementary threaded region of the body 14. The illustrated end nuts 18 may be moved axially inwardly by means of turning or rotating the end nuts 18 in a controlled manner.

[0060] The end nuts 18 and the seal rams 34 each include slanted engagement surfaces 82, 86, respectively. When the end nuts 18 are moved axially inwardly, the engagement surfaces 82, 86 compress therebetween a number of gripping rings (e.g., two gripping rings 90 in the illustrated construction), at least some of which are located at least partially within the opening defined by the associated end nut 18. The engagement surfaces 82,86 may be coated with a dry film lubricant to assist in reducing contact friction when in contact with the gripping rings 90.

[0061] Each illustrated gripping ring 90 has a generally triangular cross-section with a radial inner surface 94, a sloped surface 98, and a surface 102 extending transverse to the longitudinal axis facing and engaged by the inner surface 102 of the adjacent gripping ring 90. The radial inner surface 94 of the gripping rings 90 may be profiled (i.e., formed with slits, grooves, bumps, etc.) to effect greater gripping capacity. The gripping rings 90 also include a spiral or scarf cut 106 such that they are able to contract (i.e., reduce in diameter) or expand (i.e., increase in diameter). In some embodiments, the gripping ring 90 may be able to expand and contract without plastically deforming. The inner surface(s) 102 may also be coated with a dry film lubricant to assist in reducing contact friction when the gripping rings 90 contract or expand.

[0062] To direct the gripping rings 90 radially inwardly, the slanted engagement surfaces 82, 86 function as ramps in a similar fashion to the engagement surfaces 66. When the end nuts 18 move axially inwardly (i.e., toward the abutment 30), the engagement surfaces 82,86 engage the sloped surfaces 98 of the gripping rings 90 to compress the rings 90. The rings 90 are forced radially inwardly to engage and conform to the outer surface of the associated pipe 22,26, to hold the connector 10 in engagement with the pipes 22,26.

[0063] With respect to FIG. 8, the connector 10 also includes at least one threaded pressure test port 110. To confirm that the connector 10 has been installed correctly, the void 62 between each seal 50, at each end of the connector 10, can be accessed by the pressure test port 110 and pressurized to a desired hydraulic pressure. The seal spacers 54 may include a hole (see e.g., FIG. 18) to allow the fluid to pass from the void 62 to the volume between the seal spacers 54 and the pipes 22,26 to more completely fill the gaps between the seals 50. This ensures the seals 50 are pressurized where the seals 50 come into contact with the pipe 22,26. The hydraulic pressure is held for an appropriate length of time to confirm the seal integrity and gripping capacity of the connector 10 as a whole.

[0064] In FIG. 1, the connector 10 is illustrated in a condition for assembly with the pipeline P. To assemble, the ends of the pipes 22,26 are slid into the bore 28 of the connector 10 (FIG. 10). When the pipes 22,26 are inserted into the bore 28, the gaps 38,74 are at their maximum separation distance (FIG. 5) with none of the components of the connector 10 (e.g., gripping rings 90, anti-extrusion rings 58, etc.) directed radially inwardly (i.e., into the bore 28) and the bore 28 fully opened to receive the pipes 22,26 without causing damage to either the pipes 22, 26 or the connector 10. The connector 10 is then activated by a hand-held external activation system to grip onto the pipe by the internal gripping rings 90.

[0065] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary external system 126 used to activate the connector 10. The external activation system 126 includes a torque wrench 130, a reaction sleeve 134, and a split driving insert 138. The torque wrench 130 has an attachment surface 142 for coupling to a flange 146 of the reaction sleeve 134. The split driving insert 138 includes a plurality of protruding pins 150 for engaging the drive holes 78 of each end nut 18.

[0066] FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate an alternative construction of a gripping ring 190. The gripping ring 190 is similar to the gripping ring(s) 90 shown in FIGS. 1-8. Common components have the same reference number used with respect the gripping rings 90 plus 100. Description of the components above generally applies to the gripping ring 190, except for differences are described below.

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 19A-19C, each gripping ring 190 is generally one-piece and has a generally triangular cross-section defined by a radial inner surface 194 and a pair of sloped surfaces 198. The cross-section of the gripping ring 190 is similar to the combined cross-section of two abutting gripping rings 90, as shown in FIGS. 1-8. In the illustrated construction, the sloped surfaces 198 are approximately equal length. The radial inner surface 194 of the gripping ring 190 may be profiled (i.e., formed with slits, grooves, bumps, etc.) to effect greater gripping capacity. Because the gripping ring 190 of FIGS. 19A-26 is essentially an integral single piece construction of the gripping rings 90 of FIGS. 1-8, the gripping ring 190 does not include the inner surface 102 of the gripping ring 90 of FIGS. 1-8.

[0068] The gripping ring 190 also has a pair of spaced apart ends 208 that define an angled cut gap 206 such that the gripping ring 190 has a generally "C" shape as shown in FIGS. 19A-19B, allowing the gripping ring 190 to contract (i.e., reduce in diameter) or expand (i.e., increase in diameter). In some embodiments, the gripping ring 190 may be able to expand and contract without plastically deforming. As shown in FIG. 19B, the illustrated ends 208 are flat surfaces between an inner radius and an outer radius, defining a pair of planes A that intersect along an intersect axis B that runs parallel to a central axis C of the gripping rings 190.

[0069] ln the illustrated construction, the surfaces of the ends 208 and the planes A are oriented at the same angle relative to a radial plane intersecting each end 208. In other constructions (not shown), the surfaces of the ends 208 and the planes A may be oriented at different angles relative to the radial plane.

[0070] ln the illustrated construction, the intersect axis B is radially offset from the central axis C by approximately half the outer radius of the gripping ring 190 and is generally opposite the gap 206. However, in other embodiments (not shown), the intersect axis B may be coaxial with the central axis C, or the intersect axis may be generally on the side of the central axis C closest to the gap 206. The intersect axis B may be located generally at any radial distance from the central axis C, either inside the gripping ring 190 or outside the gripping ring 190.

[0071] The planes A are spaced apart by an angle 6 to define the gap 206. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle 0 is between about 25 to about 35 degrees (e.g., approximately 30 degrees) for gripping rings of various diameters (e.g., a diameter of 4 inches). However, in other constructions (not shown), the angle 8 may be approximately between about 25 to about 60 degrees for gripping rings of various diameters. For example, in some constructions, the angle 0 is between about 27 to about 38 degrees (e.g., approximately 33 degrees) for gripping rings håving a diameter of about 2 inches. In some other constructions, the angle 0 is between about 50 to about 60 degrees (e.g., approximately 55 degrees) for gripping rings håving a diameter of about approximately 1 inch.

[0072] As the gripping ring 190 is compressed during operation, the gripping ring 190 reduces in diameter to engage the pipe 22,26. In the illustrated embodiment, when the gripping ring 190 is fully activated, the gripping ring 190 reduces in diameter such that the gap 206 has narrowed (e.g., to a width of 2 mm). In the illustrated embodiment, if the gripping ring 190 is fully compressed, the ends 208 of the gripping ring 190 contact one another preventing further reduction in diameter, thus preventing unintentional deformation to the pipe 22,26. The gripping ring 190 may be constructed and/or the ends 208 may be angled such that the ends 208 meet together flush when the gripping ring 190 is fully compressed. Alternatively, the gripping ring 190 may be constructed and/or the ends 208 may be angled such that the ends 208 come into contact proximate the inner radius or the outer radius when the gripping ring 190 is fully compressed.

[0073] In other embodiments (not shown), the intersect axis B and, therefore, the planes A, may be angled relative to the central axis C resulting in a gap 206 similar to the scarf cut gap 106 of the gripping ring 90 shown in FIGS. 1-8. In yet further embodiments, the planes A may be parallel to each other.

[0074] FIGS. 20-26 illustrate the connector 10 with the gripping ring 190 shown in FIGS. 19A-19C replacing the gripping rings 90 shown in FIGS. 1-8. Other than the gripping ring 190, other components of the connector 10 shown in FIGS. 20-26 are identical to those shown in FIGS. 1-12 and, accordingly, the description of like-numbered parts is the same as described above.

[0075] To direct the gripping ring 190 radially inwardly, the slanted engagement surfaces 82, 86 function as ramps in a similar fashion to the engagement surfaces 66. When each end nut 18 moves axially inwardly (i.e., toward the abutment 30), the engagement surfaces 82,86 engage the sloped surfaces 198 of the gripping ring 190 to compress the ring 190. The ring 190 is forced radially inwardly to engage and conform to the outer surface of the associated pipe 22,26, to hold the connector 10 in engagement with the pipes 22,26, as discussed above.

[0076] The installation process will be described with respect to one end of the connector 10 (i.e., the end for pipe 22) for the construction with the grip rings 90 shown in FIGS. 1-8 and for the construction with the grip rings 190 shown in FIGS. 19-26. It should be understood that the illustrated installation process occurs in substantially the same manner for both ends of the connector 10. Further, some embodiments may include a center abutment that is slidable within the cavity defined by connector 10 and both ends of the connector 10 may be simultaneously activated to balance out movement of the center abutment and the graphite seals.

[0077] With reference to FIG. 10, after the ends of the pipes 22,26 are slid into the connector 10, the split driving insert 138 is placed onto the outer diameter of the pipe 22 adjacent the end nut 18. The pins 150 of the split driving insert 138 are aligned with and inserted into the drive holes 78 of the end nut 18. Plastic transport dowels 140, provided in an assembled connector 10 to limit or prevent movement of internal components prior to installation, are removed from the outer body drive holes 40.

[0078] The torque wrench 130 and assembled pre-attached reaction sleeve 134 are placed over the pipe 22 and slid over the split driving insert 138. Slots 154 formed in the reaction sleeve 134 align with the outer body drive holes 40. With reference to FIG. 11, a pair of metal (e.g., steel) drive dowels 144 are inserted through the "side" slots 154 and holes 40, leaving the "top" and "bottom" slots 154 and drive holes 40 free for viewing.

[0079] After calculating the movement of the seal ram 34 desired or required to achieve the minimum seal stress needed for a desired application, the user operates the torque wrench 130 to rotate the end nuts 18 inwardly with respect to the body 14. The user views the "top" or "bottom" slot 154 and drive holes 40 to gauge the movement of the seal ram 34, as it reduces the gap 74 (FIG. 11). When the gap 74 is the desired size, the gripping rings 90,190 grip the pipe 22, and the seals 50 form a seal between the pipe 22 and the components of the connector 10.

[0080] At this point, operation of the torque wrench 130 is halted, and the remaining installation equipment is removed (i.e., reaction sleeve 134, split driving insert 138, etc). Protective covers (not shown) are inserted into the outer body drive holes 40 to prevent ingress of unwanted materials, contaminants, etc. To confirm that the connector 10 has been installed correctly, the pressure test port 110 is accessed to permit external pressure testing for seal verification prior to placing the pipeline P into service.

[0081] During the installation process, the gripping rings 90,190 are first activated (i.e., directed radially inwardly to engage the outside surface of the associated pipe 22,26) by each end nut 18 meeting the associated seal ram 34 with opposition. By moving the end nut 18 axially inwardly, the seal ram 34 is, in turn, also moved axially inwardly (i.e., toward the abutment 30), compressing the seal(s) 50 radially onto the pipe surface. In meeting this resistance, the gripping rings 90,190 engage the slanted surfaces 82, 86 (FIG. 5) and are forced radially inwardly into contact with the associated pipe 22,26 (FIGS. 7- 8, and 25-26).

[0082] Inward movement of the each end nut 18 continues, overcoming the opposition of the seal ram 34. The seal ram 34, in turn, also continues to move inwardly, continuing to compress the seal(s) 50 forming an ever more densely packed volume to affect the pressure tight seal. Further axial movement (e.g., by turning of the torque wrench 130) causes the anti-extrusion ring(s) 58 to close down onto the outer surface of the associated pipe 22,26, in a manner similar to the gripping rings 90, 190 by action of the flowing nature of the seals 50 while being compressed. Continued axially inward movement of the end nut 18 increases the radial contact load of the gripping rings 90,190 onto the outer surfaces of the associated pipe 22,26.

[0083] In some embodiments, the connector 10 may be removable from one application (e.g., a first pipeline P) and re-installed or installed onto another application (e.g., another pipeline (not shown)) by simply replacing the seals 50 and re-using the gripping rings 90, 190. To remove the connector 10, the installation process is generally reversed.

[0084] The manner of operation of the construction of the connector 10 shown in FIGS. 20-26 with the gripping rings 190 of FIGS. 19A-19C is essentially the same as that described above in connection with the connector 10 configured with the gripping rings 90 shown in FIGS. 1-8.

[0085] FIGS. 13-18 illustrate a grip-lock pipeline connector 210 in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the invention. The connector 210 is similar to the connector 10 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-12. The illustrated connector 210 is substantially symmetric about a center vertical axis, with respect to FIG. 13, and any feature or element referenced on one side of the connector 210 equally pertains to the mirrored feature or elements on the other side of the connector 210. As an example, the connector 210 may be for above ground use on pipelines P in the range of 1 inch to 4 inches and håving a pressure rating of about class 150 (i.e., 31 bar).

[0086] The connector 210 includes an outer body 214 and a pair of gripping sleeves 218 that move axially (i.e., along the longitudinal axis of the connector 210) inwardly and outwardly with respect to the body 214 for compressing various components held within a cavity defined by the body 214. The connector 210 is configured to grip onto and fluidly connect a first pipe 222 and a second pipe 226 (FIG. 14) of a pipeline P. Each of the gripping sleeves 218 and other components of the connector 210 define a cylindrical opening or bore 228 for receiving the end portions of the pipes 222,226.

[0087] The connector 210 includes a center abutment 230 received within the cavity of body 214 and formed as a separate piece therefrom. The abutment 230 is located near the middle of the cavity with a seal sleeve 234 on each side. The abutment 230 has a rib 238 extending radially outward from the body of the abutment 230 with a width less than the width of the body of the abutment 230. Gaps 242 are defined between opposite portions of the abutment 230 and the seal sleeves 234. The seal sleeves 234 are movable inwardly with respect to the body 214 (i.e., toward the abutment 230) to reduce the size of the gaps 242.

[0088] While referred to as a "center abutment", the abutment 230 does not necessarily provide a reaction surface against which one of the pipes 222,226 engages. The center abutment 230 generally guides and centralizes the pipes 222,226 and has a width to accommodate an open tolerance for pipe insertion. For example, FIG. 14 illustrates that the ends of the pipes 222,226 do not need to engage a reaction surface of the abutment 230, or each other, but can be provided in a spaced relationship within a region defined by the center abutment 230.

[0089] The abutment 230 and the seal sleeves 234 each include an engagement surface 246, 250, respectively, to compress, therebetween a number of seals (e.g., two seals 254) when the sleeves 234 are moved axially inwardly. The seals 254 are axially spaced apart by seal spacers 258 and scarfed, wire-type, anti-extrusion rings 262 (AERs). A void 260 is defined axially between the seals 254 (e.g., in the seal spacer 258) on each side of the abutment 230.

[0090] When the sleeves 234 move axially inwardly (i.e., toward the abutment 230), the material of the seals 254 compresses and is forced radially inwardly to engage the outer surface of the associated pipe 222,226, to form a pressure tight seal. When compressed axially, the seal 254 extrudes radially inwardly and outwardly to provide a seal between the exterior surface of the associated pipe 222,226 and a component of the connector 210 (e.g., the inner surface of the seal sleeve 234 in the illustrated construction).

[0091] The illustrated seals 254 are of the type used in the commercially available line of engineered mechanical subsea connectors manufactured by Hydratight Limited, as described above. The seal 254 may be graphite seals formed of, for example, 98% pure exfoliated graphite. The seal 254 may include a laminate graphite sheet and/or be ribbon spun or spiral-wound around a mandrel into a mold that can be subsequently manipulated into a suitable construction (e.g., size, shape, etc.) for the connector 210. In other constructions, the seal 254 may include any of a variety of other seal packing materials.

[0092] In the illustrated construction, the seals 254 are prevented from extruding into gaps between the pipes 222,226 and adjacent components of the connector 210 by the anti-extrusion rings 262, which can close down onto (i.e., move radially inwardly with respect to) the pipes 222,226. Specifically, components (e.g., the abutment 230, the seal spacers 258, and the seal sleeves 234) adjacent the rings 262 include slanted engagement surfaces 266, which function as ramps to direct the rings 262 radially inwardly.

[0093] As the seals 254 and, more specifically, the top portion of the seals 254, are compressed, the bottom portions of the seals 254 expand. This forces the rings 262 into further engagement with the slanted surfaces 266, which directs the rings 262 radially inwardly. The rings 262 include a spiral or scarf cut 270 such that they are able to contract (i.e., decrease in diameter) or expand (i.e., increase in diameter) without plastically deforming.

[0094] The seal sleeves 234 are at least partially received by an opening defined by gripping sleeves 218. The seal sleeves 234 also include an outer portion 274 extending radially outwardly from the body of the seal sleeves 234. Gaps 278 are defined between portions of the gripping sleeves 218 and the seal sleeves 234. The gaps 278 allow the gripping sleeves 218 to move inwardly with respect to body 214 (i.e., toward the seal sleeves 234 and the abutment 230) to reduce the size of the gaps 278. To facilitate this inward movement, the gripping sleeves 218 may include a threaded region engaging a complementary threaded region of the body 214. The illustrated gripping sleeves 218 may be moved axially inwardly by means of turning or rotating the gripping sleeves 218 in a controlled manner.

[0095] The gripping sleeves 218 and the seal sleeves 234 include slanted engagement surfaces 282,286, respectively. When the gripping sleeves 218 are moved axially inwardly, the engagement surfaces 282,286 compress therebetween a number of gripping rings (e.g., four gripping rings 290 in th e illustrated construction), at least some of which are located at least partially within the opening defined by the associated gripping sleeve 218.

[0096] In the illustrated construction, the gripping rings 290 are axially spaced apart by friction reducing washers or discs 294 and gripping ring spacers 298 to prevent adverse interaction when in contact with the pipes 222,226. The discs 294 reduce contact friction of the gripping rings 290 when the gripping rings 290 contract or expand. The discs 294 may be coated with a dry film lubricant to assist in further reducing contact friction. In addition to the slanted engagement surfaces 282,286, the gripping ring spacers 298 also include slanted surfaces 302, which function as ramps to direct the gripping rings 290 radially inwardly.

[0097] It should be understood that, in an alternate construction of the grip-lock pipeline connector 210 shown in FIGS. 13-18, the gripping rings 290 and the corresponding friction reducing dise 294 positioned between the gripping rings 290 may be replaced with the gripping ring 190 shown in FIGS. 19A-19C. Description of the operation of the grip-lock pipeline connector 210 with respect to FIGS. 13-18 should be understood to be essentially equivalent when the gripping ring 190 is used instead of the gripping rings 290 and friction dise 294.

[0098] Each illustrated gripping ring 290 has a generally triangular cross-section with a sloped surface 306 engaged by the slanted surfaces 282,286,302 to direct the gripping rings 290 radially inwardly and a surface 308 extending transverse to the longitudinal axis and engaged by one of the friction reducing discs 294. The gripping rings 290 include a spiral or scarf cut 310 such that they are able to contract (i.e., reduce in diameter) or expand (i.e., increase in diameter) without plastically deforming as they are directed radially inwardly or outwardly, respectively.

[0099] When the sleeves 218 move axially inwardly (i.e., toward the abutment 230), the rings 290 compress and are forced radially inwardly to engage and conform to the outer surface of the pipes 222,226, to hold the connector 210 in engagement with the pipes 222,226. The radial inner surface of the gripping rings 290 may be profiled (i.e., formed with slits, grooves, bumps, etc.) to effect greater gripping capacity.

[00100] To direct the gripping rings 290 radially inwardly, the slanted engagement surfaces 282,286,302 function as ramps. When the gripping sleeves 218 move axially inwardly (i.e., toward the abutment 230), the engagement surfaces 282,286,302 engage the sloped surfaces 306 of the gripping rings 290 to compress the rings 290. The rings 290 are forced radially inwardly to engage and conform to the outer surface of the associated pipe 222,226, to hold the connector 210 in engagement with the pipes 222,226.

[00101] With respect to FIGS. 13 and 18, the connector 210 also includes at least one threaded pressure test port 314. To confirm that the connector 210 has been installed correctly, the void 260 between each seal 254, at each end of the connector 210, can be accessed by the pressure test port 314 and pressurized to a desired hydraulic pressure. The hydraulic pressure is held for an appropriate length of time to confirm the seal integrity and gripping capacity of the connector 210 as a whole.

[00102] In FIG. 13, the connector 210 is illustrated in a condition for assembly with a pipeline P. To assemble, the ends of the pipes 222,226 are slid into the bore 228 of the connector 210 (FIG. 14). When the pipes 222,226 are inserted into the bore 228, the gaps 242,278 are at their maximum separation distance (FIG. 15) with of the components of the connector 210 (e.g., gripping rings 290, anti-extrusion rings 262, etc.) directed radially inwardly (i.e., into the bore 228) and the bore 228 fully opened to receive the pipes 222,226 without causing damage to either the pipes 222,226 or the connector 210.

[00103] The connector 210 is then activated by a hand-held external activation system to grip onto the pipe by the internal gripping rings 290. The hand-held external activation system used to activated the connector 210 may be similar to the activation system 126 described above. With the separate center abutment 230, each end of the connector 210 is activated simultaneously to balance relative movement of the components of the opposite ends.

[00104] During the installation process, the gripping rings 290 are first activated (i.e., directed radially inwardly to engage the outside surface of the associated pipe 222,226) by moving the gripping sleeves 218 axially inwardly toward the abutment 230 by means of pushing or turning by threaded contact such that the gripping sleeves 218 are met with opposition from the seal sleeves 234. By moving the gripping sleeves 218 axially inwardly, the seal sleeves 234 are, in turn, also moved axially inwardly (i.e., toward the abutment 230), compressing the seals 254 radially onto the pipe surface. In meeting this resistance, the gripping rings 290 engage the slanted surfaces 282,286,302 and are forced radially inwardly into contact with the associated pipe 222,226 (FIG. 16).

[00105] Inward movement of the gripping sleeves 218 continues, overcoming the opposition of the seal sleeves 234. The seal sleeves 234, in turn, also continue to move inwardly, continuing to compress the seals 254 forming an ever more densely packed volume to affect the pressure right seal. Further axial movement (e.g., by turning) causes the anti-extrusion rings 262 to close down onto the outer surface of the pipes 222,226, in a manner similar to the gripping rings 290, by action of the flowing nature of the seals 254 while being compressed (FIG. 17). Continued axially inward movement of the gripping sleeves 218 increases the radial contact load of the gripping rings 290 onto the outer surfaces of the associated pipe 222,226.

[00106] The axial inward movement of the gripping sleeves 218 is stopped once the gripping sleeves 218 have moved inwardly by a pre-determined distance (FIG. 17), or when the gripping sleeves 218 have been tightened to reach a pre-determined level of torque (i.e., if moved inward by threaded contact with the body 214). To confirm that the connector 210 has been installed correctly, the pressure test port 314 is accessed to permit external pressure testing for seal verification prior to placing the pipeline into service.

[00107] The connector 210 is removable from one application (e.g., a first pipeline P) and re-installed or installed onto another application (e.g., another pipeline (not shown)) by simply replacing the seals 254 and re-using the gripping rings 290. To remove the connector 210, the installation process is generally reversed.

[00108] FIGS. 27-32B illustrate a grip-lock pipeline connector 410 in accordance with another alternative embodiment of the invention. The connector 410 is similar to the connector 10 and 210 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-26. The illustrated connector 410 is substantially symmetric about a center vertical axis, with respect to FIG. 27, and any feature or element referenced on one side of the connector 410 equally pertains to the mirrored feature or elements on the other side of the connector 410. Common components of the connector 410 have the same reference number as the connector 10 plus "400".

[00109] In some installation operations, when the first end is activated by turning the first end nut to simultaneously activate the first seal(s) and the first gripping ring(s), the first gripping ring closes down onto the associated first pipe and pulls the pipe along until the seal has compressed at a predetermined distance or torque. When the second pipe is abutted with the first, when the second end is activated in the same manner by turning the second end nut to simultaneously activate the second seal(s) and the second gripping ring(s), the second gripping ring closes down onto and tries to pull the second pipe but cannot due to the abutment with the first pipe and the opposing resistance.

[00110] The torque to overcome the friction between the second gripping ring and the second pipe to move to compress the second seal(s) is excessive and greatly exceeds the torque required on the first end. A pipe connector generally cannot be operated with different torque values on the opposite ends. This situation may be alleviated by not abutting the pipes before activation of the second end, but this relative positioning of the pipes cannot be guaranteed.

[00111 ] The connector 410 generally includes an arrangement to separate or decouple activation of the seal(s) 450 from activation of the gripping ring(s) 590. In the illustrated construction, the arrangement includes one or more dowel pins 700 engageable in the gap 606 of the gripping ring 590 to limit radial compression of the gripping ring 590 and engagement with the pipe (not shown). In this construction, the seal(s) 450 are activated, and movement of the

pin(s) 500 out of the gap 606 allows for final activation of the gripping ring(s) 590 to engage and grip the pipe. The arrangement keeps the gripping ring 590 clear of the pipe until seal activation to prevent the pipe from being dragged along for the operation. Such an arrangement may not be necessary when there is no gripping feature in the pipe connector.

[00112] The end nut 418 defines an opening 704 to receive each pin 700 (one in the illustrated construction). In other constructions (not shown), the end nut 418 may define a number of openings 704 to allow the pin 700 to be supported in a number of different circumferential positions on the end nut 418 to be received into the gap 606.

[00113] The pin 700 and the opening 704 include cooperating structure (e.g., threads) to adjustably position the pin 700 on the end nut 418. The pin 700 is arranged to selectively extend into the gap 606 in the gripping ring 590 and to be moved out of the gap 606. In the illustrated construction, the pin 700 is removed from the end nut 418 when it is not needed in the gap 606.

[00114] The pin 700 has (see FIG. 31) a head 708 engageable by a tool (not shown; e.g., a screwdriver) to be adjusted relative to the end nut 418. A shoulder 712 on the pin 700 limits axial inward movement of the pin 700 on the end nut 418. The pin 700 has an engagement surface 716 for engagement with the gripping ring 590. In the illustrated construction, only a portion of the pin 700 (e.g., between the shoulder 712 and the head 708) is threaded, and the engagement surface 716 is relatively smooth. In the illustrated construction (see also FIG. 19), the ends 608 of the gripping ring 590 are generally flat and engage the engagement surface 716. The flat conflguration of the ends 608 may reduce the cost of manufacture of the gripping ring 590.

[00115] In another construction (see FIG. 33), each end 608 of the gripping ring 590 includes a profiled (e.g., curved) portion 720 to engage the engagement surface 716 of the pin 700 before the gripping ring 590 is activated and grips the pipe. Each end 608 also includes a contact portion 724 engageable when the pin 700 is removed to limit further reduction in diameter/radial compression of the gripping ring 590, thus preventing unintentional deformation to the pipe. The contact portion 724 has a length less than the radius of the pin 700 to ensure that the profiled portions 720 engage the pin 700 with the contact portions 724 being maintained out of engagement.

[00116] FIG. 35 ilhistrates an alternative construction of the dowel pin arrangement. In this construction, two pins 700 (and at least two corresponding openings 704 in the end nut 418) are provided. Each pin 700 is engageable with one end 608 of the gripping ring 590 to restrict activation of the gripping ring 590. In the illustrated construction, each end 608 has a profiled portion 720 to engage the engagement surface 716 of the associated pin 700, and each profiled portion 720 extends around a portion of the circumference of the pin 700 on opposite sides of the pin axis. The illustrated multi-pin arrangement may be provided for a relatively large gripping ring gap 606 to prevent closure of gripping ring 590 onto the pipe.

[00117] The pin arrangement may be applied to a scarf-cut gripping ring (such as the gripping ring 90, described above). In such constructions (not shown), a pin (such as the pin 700) is positioned to limit radial movement of the scarf-cut gripping ring to grip the pipe P. The scarf cut of the gripping ring is in a different plane to the pin 700 described above. In one example, if the end nut is constructed (e.g., made longer) so that the gripping ring is outside of and does not enter the outer body (while being adjacent the activation face of the end nut), the pin can be radially inserted and removed, applying a similar arrangement to the C-shape gripping ring 590.

[00118] FIGS. 28 A-32B illustrate installation of the pipe connector 410. As shown in FIGS. 28A-28B (and in FIGS. 34A-34E), the pipe connector 410 is assembled and ready for installation. As shown in FIGS. 29A-29B, the end nut 418 is initially turned or torqued. The end nut 418 rotates and advances, and the seal(s) 450 compress slightly (e.g., to about 1 tonne-force). During this period, the gripping ring 590 closes down onto the pin 700 and cannot radially compress any further to engage and grip the pipe. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 30, the end nut 418 continues to rotate and advance, and the seal(s) 450 continue to compress.

[00119] Due to Graphite-to-steel friction being lower than steel-to-steel friction, the ram 434 rotates, ensuring that the pin 700 is not used as a drive pin. The pin 700 is only under compression, as are the ends 608 of the gripping ring 590. Because the pin 700 is not subjected to torque, the end nut 418 is less likely to be damaged and can remain as a slender design.

[00120] With the seal(s) 450 at the correct compression (see FIG. 31), the pin 700 is removed. As shown in FIGS. 32A-32B, the end nut 418 is continued to be turned to previously-described torque level (e.g., once the end nut 418 has moved inwardly by a pre-determined distance or have been tightened to reach a pre-determined level of torque) to activate the gripping ring(s) 590 to engage and grip the pipe while maintaining compression of the seai(s) 450. The operation then ends.

[00121] As described above, the connector 410 is removable from one application (e.g., a first pipeline P) and re-installed or installed onto another application (e.g., another pipeline (not shown)) by simply replacing the seals 450 and re-using the gripping rings 490. To remove the connector 410, the installation process is generally reversed.

[00122] The components of the connector 10,210,410 are compatible with the material of the pipeline P and with the media carried by the pipeline P. In some constructions, the structural components may be formed of suitable materials, such as, for example, steel, stainless steel, carbon steel, etc.

[00123] Although the invention has be described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention as described above.

[00124] One or more independent features and independent advantages of the invention may be set forth in the claims.

Claims (63)

1. A pipe connector for connecting pipes in a pipeline, the connector comprising: an outer body defining a cavity; a first gripping ring supported in the cavity, the first gripping ring defining a scarf cut to allow the first gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; a second gripping ring proximate the first gripping ring; and an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the first gripping ring and the second gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the first gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause at least the first gripping ring to engage the one of the pipes.

2. The connector of claim 1, wherein the first gripping ring has a triangular cross-section.

3. The connector of claim 2, wherein the outer body defines an axis, and wherein the first gripping ring has a ring engagement surface extending at an angle relative to the axis and engageable with the nut engagement surface, the first gripping ring håving an axial inner surface extending transverse to the axis, the inner surface facing the second gripping ring.

4. The connector of claim 1, wherein the outer body provides a radial surface extending into the cavity, and wherein the connector further comprises a seal supported in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, the seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the one of the pipes.

5. The connector of claim 4, wherein the seal is engageable between the outer body and the one of the pipes.

6. The connector of claim 4, further comprising an anti-extrusion ring positioned adjacent the seal.

7. The connector of claim 6, wherein the anti-extrusion ring defines a scarf cut to allow the anti-extrusion ring to decrease in diameter to engage the one of the pipes.

8. The connector of claim 4, wherein the seal includes graphite.

9. The connector of claim 4, further comprising a seal ram supported in the cavity, axial inward movement of the end nut causing axial inward movement of the seal ram to compress the seal.

10. The connector of claim 9, wherein the second gripping ring has a ring engagement surface, and wherein the seal ram has a ram engagement surface engageable with the ring engagement surface of the second gripping ring.

11. The connector of claim 9, wherein the seal ram defines a ram bore, the seal being received in the ram bore.

12. The connector of claim 4, wherein the seal is a first seal, and wherein the connector further comprises a second seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut and spaced from the first seal, the second seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the one of the pipes.

13. The connector of claim 12, further comprising a port in fluid communication with a void between the first seal and the second seal, the void being pressurized through the port.

14. The connector of claim 1, wherein the end nut threadedly engages the outer body, rotation of the end nut causing axial inward movement of the end nut.

15. The connector of claim 1, further comprising a dise between the first gripping ring and the second gripping ring, the dise being configured to reduce friction between the first gripping ring and the second gripping ring.

16. A pipe connector for connecting pipes in a pipeline, the connector comprising: an outer body defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity; a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a scarf cut to allow the gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress the gripping ring; a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, the seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the one of the pipes; and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore, axial inward movement of the end nut causing axial inward movement of the seal ram to compress the seal.

17. The pipe connector of claim 16, wherein the outer body provides a second radial surface extending into the cavity, and wherein the pipe connector further comprises: a second gripping ring supported in the cavity, the second gripping ring defining a scarf cut to allow the second gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage the other of the pipes; a second end nut defining a second nut bore receiving the second gripping ring, a second nut engagement surface extending into the second nut bore and being engageable with the second gripping ring, the second nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress the second gripping ring; a second seal in the cavity between the second radial surface and the second end nut, the second seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the other of the pipes; and a second seal ram supported in the cavity, the second seal ram extending at least partially into the second nut bore, axial inward movement of the second end nut causing axial inward movement of the second seal ram to compress the second seal.

18. The connector of claim 17, further comprising: a third gripping ring proximate the flrst-mentioned gripping ring and received in the first-mentioned nut bore; and a fourth gripping ring proximate the second gripping ring and received in the second nut bore.

19. The connector of claim 16, wherein the gripping ring has a triangular cross-section.

20. The connector of claim 19, wherein the outer body defines an axis, and wherein the gripping ring has a ring engagement surface extending at an angle relative to the axis and engageable with the nut engagement surface, the gripping ring håving an axial inner surface extending transverse to the axis.

21. The connector of claim 20, further comprising a second gripping ring proximate the first-mentioned gripping ring and received in the first-mentioned nut bore, the inner surface facing the second gripping ring.

22. The connector of claim 21, further comprising a dise between the first gripping ring and the second gripping ring, the dise being configured to reduce friction between the first gripping ring and the second gripping ring.

23. The connector of claim 16, further comprising an anti-extrusion ring in the cavity and positioned adjacent the first seal, the anti-extrusion ring defining a scarf cut to allow the anti-extrusion ring to decrease in diameter to engage the one of the pipes.

24. The connector of claim 16, wherein the first seal includes graphite.

25. The connector of claim 16, further comprising a second seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut and spaced from the first-mentioned seal, the second seal being engageable between a component of the pipe connector and the one of the pipes, the seal ram being moved axially inwardly by the end nut to compress the second seal between the seal ram and the radial surface.

26. The connector of claim 25, further comprising a port in fluid communication with a void between the first-mentioned seal and the second seal, the void being pressurized through the port.

27. The connector of claim 16, wherein the end nut is threadedly engaged with the outer body, rotation of the end nut causing the gripping ring to decrease in diameter.

28. A method of assembling a pipe connector to at least one pipe in a pipeline, the connector including an outer body defining a cavity, a first gripping ring supported in the cavity, the first gripping ring defining a scarf cut, a second gripping ring proximate the first gripping ring, and an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the first gripping ring and the second gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the first gripping ring, the method comprising: inserting a first pipe into the connector; and moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause at least the first gripping ring to engage the first pipe.

29. A method of assembling a pipe connector to at least one pipe in a pipeline, the connector including an outer body defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity, a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a scarf cut, an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore, the method comprising: inserting a first pipe into the connector; moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the first pipe; and moving the seal ram axially inwardly relative to the outer body by axial inward movement of the end nut to compress the seal between a component of the connector and the first pipe.

30. A pipe connector for connecting pipes in a pipeline, the connector comprising: an outer body defining a cavity; a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap to allow the gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; and an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the one of the pipes.

31. The connector of claim 30, wherein the gripping ring has a triangular cross-section.

32. The connector of claim 31, wherein the outer body defines an axis, and wherein the gripping ring has a first ring engagement surface extending at an angle relative to the axis and engageable with the nut engagement surface.

33. The connector of claim 30, wherein the outer body provides a radial surface extending into the cavity, and wherein the connector further comprises a seal supported in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, the seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the one of the pipes.

34. The connector of claim 33, wherein the seal is engageable between the outer body and the one of the pipes.

35. The connector of claim 33, further comprising an anti-extrusion ring positioned adjacent the seal.

36. The connector of claim 35, wherein the anti-extrusion ring defines a scarf cut to allow the anti-extrusion ring to decrease in diameter to engage the one of the pipes.

37. The connector of claim 33, wherein the seal includes graphite.

38. The connector of claim 33, further comprising a seal ram supported in the cavity, axial inward movement of the end nut causing axial inward movement of the seal ram to compress the seal.

39. The connector of claim 38, wherein the gripping ring has a second ring engagement surface extending at an angle relative to the axis, and wherein the seal ram has a ram engagement surface engageable with the second ring engagement surface.

40. The connector of claim 38, wherein the seal ram defines a ram bore, the seal being received in the ram bore.

41. The connector of claim 33, wherein the seal is a first seal, and wherein the connector further comprises a second seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut and spaced from the first seal, the second seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the one of the pipes.

42. The connector of claim 41, further comprising a port in fluid communication with a void between the first seal and the second seal, the void being pressurized through the port.

43. The connector of claim 30, wherein the end nut threadedly engages the outer body, rotation of the end nut causing axial inward movement of the end nut.

44. The connector of claim 30, further comprising a pin movably positioned in the gap.

45. The connector of claim 44, wherein the gripping ring has a gap surface at least partially defining the gap, and wherein the gap surface is engageable with the pin to limit compression of the gripping ring during movement of the end nut.

46. The connector of claim 44, wherein the pin is adjustably supported by the end nut.

47. The connector of claim 46, wherein the pin threadedly engages the end nut.

48. The connector of claim 44, further comprising a seal supported in the cavity, the seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the one of the pipes, axial inward movement of the end nut causing compression of the seal, wherein the pin is supported for movement out of the gap after compression of the seal, and wherein the end nut and the gripping ring are thereafter configured such that further axial inward movement of the end nut relative to the outer body compresses and causes the gripping ring to engage the one of the pipes.

49. A pipe connector for connecting pipes in a pipeline, the connector comprising: an outer body defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity; a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap to allow the gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress the gripping ring; a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, the seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the one of the pipes; and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore, axial inward movement of the end nut causing axial inward movement of the seal ram to compress the seal.

50. The connector of claim 49, wherein the outer body provides a second radial surface extending into the cavity, and wherein the pipe connector further comprises: a second gripping ring supported in the cavity, the second gripping ring defining a gap to allow the second gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage the other of the pipes; a second end nut defining a second nut bore recei ving the second gripping ring, a second nut engagement surface extending into the second nut bore and being engageable with the second gripping ring, the second nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress the second gripping ring; a second seal in the cavity between the second radial surface and the second end nut, the second seal being engageable between a component of the connector and the other of the pipes; and a second seal ram supported in the cavity, the second seal ram extending at least partially into the second nut bore, axial inward movement of the second end nut causing axial inward movement of the second seal ram to compress the second seal.

51. The connector of claim 49, wherein the gripping ring has a triangular cross-section.

52. The connector of claim 51, wherein the outer body defines an axis, and wherein the gripping ring has a ring engagement surface extending at an angle relative to the axis and engageable with the nut engagement surface.

53. The connector of claim 49, further comprising an anti-extrusion ring in the cavity and positioned adjacent the first seal, the anti-extrusion ring defining a scarf cut to allow the anti-extrusion ring to decrease in diameter to engage the one of the pipes.

54. The connector of claim 49, wherein the first seal includes graphite.

55. The connector of claim 49, further comprising a second seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut and spaced from the first-mentioned seal, the second seal being engageable between a component of the pipe connector and the one of the pipes, the seal ram being moved axially inwardly by the end nut to compress the second seal between the seal ram and the radial surface.

56. The connector of claim 55, further comprising a port in fluid communication with a void between the first-mentioned seal and the second seal, the void being pressurized through the port.

57. The connector of claim 49, wherein the end nut is threadedly engaged with the outer body, rotation of the end nut causing the gripping ring to decrease in diameter.

58. The connector of claim 49, further comprising a pin movably positioned in the gap to limit compression of the gripping ring during movement of the end nut.

59. The connector of claim 58, wherein the pin is supported for movement out of the gap after compression of the seal, and wherein the end nut and the gripping ring are thereafter configured such that further axial inward movement of the end nut relative to the outer body compresses and causes the gripping ring to engage the one of the pipes.

60. A pipe connector for connecting pipes in a pipeline, the connector comprising: an outer body defining a cavity; a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap to allow the gripping ring to decrease in diameter to engage one of the pipes; an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, the end nut being configured to move axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the one of the pipes; and a pin movably positioned in the gap to limit compression of the gripping ring during movement of the end nut.

61. A method of assembling a pipe connector to at least one pipe in a pipeline, the connector including an outer body defining a cavity, a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap, and an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, the method comprising: inserting a first pipe into the connector; and moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the first pipe.

62. A method of assembling a pipe connector to at least one pipe in a pipeline, the connector including an outer body defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity, a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap, an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore, the method comprising: inserting a first pipe into the connector; moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the first pipe; and moving the seal ram axially inwardly relative to the outer body by axial inward movement of the end nut to compress the seal between a component of the connector and the first pipe.

63. A method of assembling a pipe connector to at least one pipe in a pipeline, the connector including an outer body defining a cavity and providing a radial surface extending into the cavity, a gripping ring supported in the cavity, the gripping ring defining a gap, an end nut defining a nut bore receiving the gripping ring, a nut engagement surface extending into the nut bore and being engageable with the gripping ring, a pin movably positioned in the gap, a seal in the cavity between the radial surface and the end nut, and a seal ram supported in the cavity, the seal ram extending at least partially into the nut bore, the method comprising: inserting a first pipe into the connector; moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to cause the gripping ring to engage the pin to limit compression of the gripping ring toward the first pipe; and moving the seal ram axially inwardly relative to the outer body by axial inward movement of the end nut to compress the seal between a component of the connector and the first pipe; thereafter, removing the pin from the gap; and thereafter, moving the end nut axially inwardly relative to the outer body to compress and cause the gripping ring to engage the first pipe.