US20040108010A1 - Clamp for stopping gas leaks - Google Patents
Clamp for stopping gas leaks Download PDFInfo
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- US20040108010A1 US20040108010A1 US10/726,462 US72646203A US2004108010A1 US 20040108010 A1 US20040108010 A1 US 20040108010A1 US 72646203 A US72646203 A US 72646203A US 2004108010 A1 US2004108010 A1 US 2004108010A1
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- Prior art keywords
- clamp
- pipe
- boom
- booms
- coupled
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L55/00—Devices or appurtenances for use in, or in connection with, pipes or pipe systems
- F16L55/16—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders
- F16L55/168—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders from outside the pipe
- F16L55/17—Devices for covering leaks in pipes or hoses, e.g. hose-menders from outside the pipe by means of rings, bands or sleeves pressed against the outside surface of the pipe or hose
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to the field of pipe repair tools and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to a clamp for stopping and repairing leaks in natural gas pipes.
- Leaks occur in, for example, natural gas transportation and distribution lines for a number of reasons.
- the pipelines may be accidentally ruptured by tooling while laying or repairing adjacent underground works, or corrosion may cause leaks.
- leaks in high pressure gas lines particularly leaks in heavily populated areas, present a significant hazard.
- the gas is shut-off while the pipe is repaired. Often, the technicians must risk repairing the leaks while gas continues to leak from the pipe.
- the present invention provides a clamp that may be attached to a vehicle for remotely stopping a leak in a gas line.
- the clamp includes a first boom having a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end.
- the first boom is provided with a mounting portion adjacent the first end operable to couple the clamp to a mounting structure, such as a vehicle or repair structure, for manipulating the clamp.
- the clamp also includes a second boom having a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end.
- the first and second booms are coupled such that the pipe engaging portions of the first and second booms are positioned to cooperate about a leak portion of a pipe.
- the clamp has an actuator operably coupled to at least one of the first and second booms to selectively engage the first and second pipe engaging portions about the leak portion of the pipe.
- the clamp in another aspect, includes a first boom with a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end. A first coupling portion is provided between the first and second ends of the first boom.
- the clamp further includes a second boom with a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end. The first and second booms are coupled such that the pipe engaging portions of the first and second booms are positioned to cooperate about a leak portion of a pipe.
- the clamp includes a second coupling portion provided between the first and second ends of the second boom, the second coupling portion of the second boom coupled to the first coupling portion of the first boom.
- the clamp includes a means for selectively engaging the first and second pipe engaging portions about the leak portion of the pipe.
- the means is coupled to at least one of the first and second booms between the first ends of the first and second booms and the coupling of the first coupling portion of the first boom to the second coupling portion of the second boom.
- the clamp is provided with a first shoe coupled to the first boom adjacent the second end of the first boom.
- the first shoe provided with a surface configured to receive a first portion of a pipe.
- the clamp also has a second shoe coupled to the second boom adjacent the second end of the second boom.
- the second shoe provided with a surface configured to receive a second portion of a pipe.
- the actuator is operably coupled to selectively engage the first and second booms such that the first and second shoes cooperate to reduce gas leaking from the pipe.
- the present invention provides a method for repairing a leak in a gas line.
- the method includes providing the clamp according to one of the above aspects and remotely positioning the clamp adjacent a leak portion of the pipe.
- the method includes activating the actuator to engage the shoes about the pipe and disconnecting the first and second shoes from the first and second booms, respectively.
- the method provides for coupling the first and second shoes to the pipe.
- the shoes may be sized to extend laterally from the first and second booms to access and weld the first and second shoes to the pipe while the clamp retains the first and second shoes positioned to reduce the leak in the pipe.
- the method further includes activating the actuator to remove the clamp from the pipe such that the first and second shoes remain coupled to the pipe.
- One advantage of the present invention is the ability to remotely stop the leak in the pipe, thus eliminating the necessity for a technician to approach the leaking pipe.
- Another advantage of the present invention is that the first and second shoes are removably coupled to the first and second booms. Once the clamp is in place and reducing the volume of gas leaking from the pipe, the first and second shoes may be uncoupled from the first and second booms. The first and second shoes are further coupleable to the pipe for a longer-term repair solution. The clamp including the first and second booms may then be removed, leaving the first and second shoes positioned about the leak portion of the pipe.
- Another advantage is that the design of the present invention is readily adapted to withstand high pressure leaks and effectively overcome the pressure to clamp such leaks.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a clamp for stopping gas leaks constructed according to one aspect of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a side view of the clamp illustrated in FIG. 1 illustrating the coupling of a shoe to a boom and collet in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 3 illustrates the shoes illustrated in FIG. 1 coupleable adjacent a leak portion of a pipe for repairing the leak once the clamp has been removed according to one aspect of the present invention
- FIG. 4 illustrates smaller shoes sized for repairing pipe having a smaller diameter, according to yet another aspect of the present invention
- FIG. 5 is a view of another aspect of the collets of the present invention shown coupled to the shoes illustrated in FIG. 4;
- FIG. 6 illustrates the collets and smaller shoes, shown in FIG. 5, coupled to the clamp of the present invention
- FIG. 7 illustrates the clamp constructed in accordance with another aspect of the present invention for stopping gas leaks
- FIG. 8 is a side view of the clamp illustrated in FIG. 7 with collars for positioning the shoes for repairing gas leaks;
- FIG. 9 illustrates the clamp constructed in accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention for stopping gas leaks
- FIG. 10 illustrates the clamp constructed according to another aspect of the present invention for stopping gas leaks
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the clamp, according to one aspect, coupled to a vehicle for remotely utilizing the clamp for sealing gas leaks in pipe;
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another aspect of the clamp of the present invention shown positioned about the pipe;
- FIG. 13 is a flow-chart of a method for stopping and repairing gas leaks, according to another aspect of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a clamp 10 constructed in accordance with the present invention for stopping and repairing leaks in pipes carrying natural gas.
- the clamp 10 includes a first boom 12 having a first end 14 and a second end 16 .
- the first end 14 of the first boom 12 may include an arm 18 adapted to mount the clamp 10 to a vehicle (not shown) for remotely employing the clamp 10 .
- the arm 18 may be provided, according to one aspect, with openings 20 to couple the arm 18 to the vehicle, such as in a nut and bolt configuration.
- the clamp 10 may be welded to the vehicle, such as at the arm 18 .
- the clamp 10 further includes a second boom 22 having a first end 24 and a second end 26 .
- a first shoe 28 is provided on the second end 16 of the first boom 12 and a second shoe 30 is provided on the second end 26 of the second boom 22 .
- the first and second shoes 28 and 30 engage the surface of a pipe (not shown) such that the first and second shoes 28 and 30 are positionable about a leak portion of a pipe to reduce the natural gas, or other fluid, leaking from the pipe.
- the first and second shoes 28 and 30 are removably coupled to the first and second booms 12 and 22 , respectively.
- the first boom 12 is provided with a flange 32 defining an opening 34 configured for alignment with a similar opening 34 defined by a flange 36 of a second boom 22 .
- a pin 38 or other coupling may be used for retaining the first boom 12 movably coupled to the second boom 22 .
- the clamp 10 is provided with an actuator 40 , which may be a hydraulic cylinder coupled at a first end 42 to the first boom 12 and at a second end 44 to the second boom 22 .
- an actuator 40 may be a hydraulic cylinder coupled at a first end 42 to the first boom 12 and at a second end 44 to the second boom 22 .
- a 4 inch hydraulic cylinder capable of generating about 25 , 000 pounds of pressure may be utilized in one aspect, in other aspects, cylinders of various sizes and capabilities or pneumatic cylinders or similar device may be utilized for these purposes and are within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
- the actuator 40 may be electronically coupled, via communication lines 46 , to the vehicle for remotely operating the actuator and the clamp 10 for these purposes.
- a portion 50 of the first boom 12 defines an opening for receiving a pin 52 for coupling the first end 42 of the actuator 40 to the first boom 12 .
- a portion 54 of the second boom 22 defines an opening for receiving a pin 56 for coupling the second end 44 of the actuator 40 to the second boom 22 .
- the pins 38 , 52 and 56 illustrate one method of coupling the components of the clamp 10 , in other aspects these components may be welded, bolted, or otherwise coupled to one another and are within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
- the first and second booms 12 and 22 and the first and second shoes 28 and 30 may be constructed of a variety of materials such as iron, steel, aluminum or rigid polymeric materials so long as the material selected are sufficiently rigid and structurally sound to support the first and second shoes 28 and 30 to withstand a considerable amount of gas pressure which may be gas escaping from the pipe.
- the shoes 28 and 30 may be constructed as a thin, somewhat flexible, band to more readily conform to the surface of the pipe.
- the overall configuration of the clamp 10 is designed such that the first and second shoes 28 and 30 may be retained in a position disposed about the leak portion of the pipe engaged in the manner to reduce the gas escaping from the pipe.
- the overall configuration of the clamp 10 provides one advantage in that a significant amount of pressure may be transferred from the actuator 40 to the second ends 14 and 24 of the first and second booms 12 and 22 , respectively, to compress the first and second shoes 28 and 30 sufficient to reduce significant gas which may be leaking from a pipe.
- the clamp 10 may include a first collet 60 coupled adjacent the second end 16 of the first boom 12 .
- the first collet 60 may be permanently coupled, or removably attached with a plurality of couplings 62 , such as a nut and bolt configuration.
- the first shoe 28 is provided with a first flange 64 and a second flange 66 for coupling the first shoe 28 to the first collet 60 , such as with couplings 62 or by other means.
- a second collet 68 is coupled to the second end 26 of the second boom 22 in a removable manner such as with the coupling 62 or may be permanently attached, in other aspects.
- the second shoe 30 is provided with a first flange 70 and a second flange 72 for attaching the second shoe 30 to the second collet 68 such as by utilizing coupling 62 .
- the configuration of the first and second collets 60 and 68 with respect to the disposition of the first and second shoes 28 and 30 provides for air gaps 73 between the first and second collets 60 and 68 and the first and second shoes 28 and 30 .
- the air gaps 73 provide another advantage of the present invention since the flexible first and second shoes 28 and 30 are able to more readily conform to the surface of the pipe to reduce the leak.
- the first and second shoes 28 and 30 are permitted certain expansion and reconfiguration while the clamp 10 is positioned, which could not be accomplished where the first and second shoes 28 and 30 were rigidly positioned in contact with the first and second collets 60 and 68 .
- the second collet 68 may be constructed as a single collar in one aspect, in the present aspect, the second collet 68 may be provided as two substantially identical pieces 68 a and 68 b .
- This view illustrates the connection of the second collets 68 a and 68 b to the second boom 22 utilizing the couplings 62 .
- the second shoe 30 may extend beyond the width of the second collets 68 a and 68 b , as well as the second boom 22 and sized according to the size of the pipe to be repaired or according to the width of the repair desired based on the damage to the pipe or the leak being repaired.
- the second collets 68 a and 68 b are provided with upper flanges 74 a and 74 b and lower flanges 76 a and 76 b for coupling to the second shoe 30 .
- the second shoe 30 may be provided with two upper first flanges 70 a and 70 b and two lower second flanges 72 a and 72 b .
- the first flanges 70 a and the second flange 72 a of the shoe 30 are coupled, using couplings 62 , to the upper flange 74 a and lower flange 76 a of the second collets 68 a , respectively.
- first flange 70 b and second flange 72 b of the shoe 30 are coupleable, using couplings 62 , to the upper flange 74 b and lower flange 76 b of the second collet 68 b.
- the configuration of the second boom 22 allows access to the connection of the second collet 68 a and 68 b to the shoe 30 .
- This configuration allows the second shoe 30 to be connected to the second collet 68 during placement about the leak portion of the pipe, and subsequently disconnected once the second shoe 30 is positioned about the pipe for repairing the leak.
- the first and second shoes 28 and 30 may then be welded about the pipe.
- first and second shoes 28 and 30 may accomplish a sufficient connection of the first and second shoes 28 and 30 to the pipe
- one or more band clamps may be utilized for fixing the first and second shoes 28 and 30 in position, or band clamps may be utilized to supplement the welded connection.
- band clamps are effective, any number of devices and methods may be utilized for these purposes and are within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
- the first and second shoes 30 may then be uncoupled from the first and second collets 60 and 68 so that the clamp 10 may be removed.
- FIG. 3 illustrates the first and second shoes 28 and 30 uncoupled from the first and second collets 60 and 68 .
- the configuration of the clamp 10 allows for the first and second booms 12 and 22 and the first and second collets 60 and 68 to be removed leaving the first and second shoes 28 and 30 in place about the leak portion of the pipe for permanent or temporary repair of the pipe.
- first and second shoes 28 and 30 may be provided with sealing members 80 and 82 , respectively, provided on an inner surface of the first and second shoes 28 and 30 .
- the sealing members 80 and 82 may be a gaskets or other sealing devices, while in other aspects the sealing members 80 and 82 may be a rubber layer or coating applied to the first and second shoes 28 and 30 .
- the sealing members 80 and 82 may be any material provided to promote conforming of the first and second shoes 28 and 30 and the sealing member 80 and 82 to the surface of the pipe for reducing the gas or other fluid leaking from the pipe.
- first and second shoes 28 and 30 are shown as two members, in other aspects the first and second shoes may be constructed as three, four or more separate members for these purposes and are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Also, the first and second shoes 28 and 30 are shown as substantially arcuate in shape. However, the first and second shoes 28 and 30 may be of any configuration such that the sealing members 80 and 82 are provided to conform to the surface of the pipe. Also while the first and second shoes 28 and 30 are shown connected with the coupling 62 , a number of such connecting devices may be selected for connecting the first and second shoes 28 and 30 and are within the spirit and scope of the present invention as disclosed and described herein.
- FIG. 4 illustrates another aspect of the first and second shoes 28 and 30 sized for a smaller diameter of pipe.
- the clamp 10 is configured to receive a plurality of shoe 28 and 30 of various sizes.
- the first and second shoes 28 and 30 may be coupled to one another to secure the first and second shoes 28 and 30 about the leak portion of the pipe.
- the first and second collets 60 and 68 may be provided in various sizes such that the first and second collets 60 and 68 are received by the first and second ends 14 and 26 of the first and second booms 12 and 22 .
- the first and second collets 60 and 68 are sized to receive the first and second shoe 28 and 30 sized to repair pipe having a smaller diameter, such as that illustrated in FIG. 4.
- the first and second shoes 28 and 30 are received at medial portions 90 of the first and second collets 60 and 68 .
- the coupling 62 such as a nut and bolt configuration, may be utilized for the connection of the first and second shoes 28 and 30 to the first and second collets 60 and 68 in this aspect.
- the medial portions 90 of the first and second collets 60 and 68 may be threaded openings provided in the first and second collets 60 and 68 or other couplings suitable for these purposes.
- FIG. 6 illustrates another aspect of the present invention of the clamp 10 provided with the modified first and second collets 60 and 68 , shown in FIG. 5, for receiving the smaller first and second shoes 28 and 30 , shown in FIG. 4, sized for repairing a smaller diameter pipe.
- the clamp 10 of the present invention is provided with a plurality of collets 60 and 68 of various sizes to receive various sizes of shoes 28 and 30 , according to the diameter of the pipe to be repaired.
- the clamp 10 of the present aspect is advantageously provided such that technicians may arrive at the scene of a leaking pipe and, upon determining the size of the pipe to be repaired, may quickly retrieve the appropriate size collets 60 and 68 and shoes 28 and 30 to adapt the clamp 10 of the present invention for such repair without the need for a multiple clamps 10 each sized for a different diameter pipe.
- the clamp 10 may be utilized such that multiple clamps 10 each adapted for a different diameter pipe may also be utilized equally well.
- FIG. 7 illustrates another aspect of the present invention of the clamp 10 for repairing leaks in gas pipelines.
- the first and second booms 12 and 22 are provided with extension members 100 and 102 , respectively.
- the extension members 100 and 102 are coupled to first and second collars 104 and 106 , respectively.
- the first and second collars 104 and 106 are adapted to be positioned about the leak portion of pipe for stopping and repairing the leak.
- the first and second collars 104 and 106 may be provided with flanges 108 and 110 defining openings alignable for receiving a pin for hingingly connecting the first and second collars 104 and 106 to one another.
- One advantage of the present aspect of the clamp 10 is that the extension members 100 and 102 provide for optimizing the opening of the first and second collars 104 and 106 when the first ends 14 and 24 of the first and second booms are brought together by the actuator 40 for positioning the clamp 10 about the leak portion of the pipe.
- FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of the clamp 10 illustrated in FIG. 7.
- the second shoe 30 is similarly positionable by the second boom 22 adjacent the leak portion of the pipe.
- the first and second shoes 28 and 30 may be welded our otherwise coupled to the pipe while the first and second booms 12 and 22 retain the first and second shoes 28 and 30 in place about the leak portion of the pipe.
- the first and second shoes 28 and 30 , or the entire clamp 10 may be provided only as a temporary repair retained in place until a convenient time to shut-off the gas in the pipeline or until a bypass or other more permanent repair to the pipeline can be accomplished.
- FIG. 9 illustrates another aspect of the clamp 10 of the present invention shown with a member 120 adapted to hingingly receive the first and second booms 12 and 22 .
- the clamp 10 may be provided with multiple actuators 40 for operating the clamp 10 .
- the second boom 22 may be rigidly fixed to the member 120 and only a single actuator 40 coupled to the first boom 12 may be employed.
- the member 120 is adapted to be received by a mechanical arm or other structure for manipulating the clamp 10 for positioning about the leak portion of the pipe.
- FIG. 10 illustrates another aspect of the clamp 10 for stopping or reducing gas leaking from a pipe.
- the first and second booms 12 and 22 are provided in a wrench configuration to promote the clamping of the first and second shoes 28 and 30 about the leak portion of the pipe.
- FIG. 11 illustrates the clamp 10 coupled to a mechanical arm 130 of a vehicle 132 such as a backhoe.
- a vehicle 132 such as a backhoe.
- an operator may remotely operate the clamp 10 from the vehicle 132 and position the clamp 10 about the leak portion 134 of a pipe 136 .
- This provides another advantage of the present invention since ordinarily a repair technician places must be in a close proximity to the pipe 136 to repair the pipe 136 .
- the clamp 10 of the present invention coupled to the vehicle 132 allows the user of the present invention to remotely place the clamp 10 about the leak portion 134 of the pipe 136 from a safe distance.
- the technicians may then weld or otherwise couple the first and second shoes 28 and 30 to the pipe and make any permanent or temporary repairs, such as welding the first and second shoes 28 and 30 to the pipe 136 .
- the present invention may be configured for pipe 136 of any size, the present invention is well suited for pipe ranging in size from 2-36 inches in diameter. Also, the present invention is well suited for stopping and repairing leaks in pipe carrying fluid or gas under up to 800 pounds of pressure.
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the clamp 10 , according to one aspect, coupled about the pipe 136 for stopping or reducing fluids or gas from leaking from the pipe 136 .
- the clamp 10 is shown removed from the vehicle 132 with the actuator 40 activated to engage the first and second booms 12 and 22 and the first and second shoes 28 and 30 about a surface 137 of the pipe 136 .
- the first and second booms 12 and 22 are illustrated such that the first boom 12 includes a first portion 160 coupled to a second portion 162 and such that the second boom 22 includes a first portion 164 and a second portion 166 .
- FIG. 13 illustrates a method 200 according to one aspect of the present invention for repairing the leak 134 portion of the pipe 136 .
- the method includes providing the clamp 10 as described and disclosed above.
- the method includes positioning the clamp 10 adjacent the leak portion 134 of the pipe 136 .
- one advantage of the present invention is the ability to remotely replace and manipulate the clamp 10 remotely by coupling the clamp 10 to the vehicle 132 or other fixed structure or equipment utilized for these purposes.
- the method provides for activating the actuator to engage the clamp 10 about the leak portion 134 of the pipe 136 .
- the user of the present invention may actuate the actuator 40 remotely where the communication lines 46 are coupled to the actuator 40 and extend to, for example, the vehicle 132 .
- the method includes coupling the first and second shoes 28 and 30 to the pipe, such as by welding.
- the method includes disconnecting the shoes 28 and 30 , such as the first and second shoes 28 and 30 , from the first and second booms 12 and 22 , respectively.
- the method provides, at a block 212 , for activating the actuator to remove the clamp 10 from the pipe 136 .
- the repair technicians may weld or otherwise make a permanent repair to the pipe 136 , or in some aspects, may maintain the clamp 10 engaged about the leak portion 134 of the pipe 136 until such time as a permanent repair, such as a bypass, can be made.
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Abstract
Description
- Pursuant to 35 U.S.C. § 120, this continuation application claims priority from, and hereby incorporates by reference for all purposes, copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/255,357, entitled Clamp for Stopping Gas Leaks, naming Michael W. Gaston and Lance R. Andrews as inventors, filed Sep. 26, 2002.
- This invention relates generally to the field of pipe repair tools and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to a clamp for stopping and repairing leaks in natural gas pipes.
- Leaks occur in, for example, natural gas transportation and distribution lines for a number of reasons. The pipelines may be accidentally ruptured by tooling while laying or repairing adjacent underground works, or corrosion may cause leaks. In any event, leaks in high pressure gas lines, particularly leaks in heavily populated areas, present a significant hazard. In some instances, the gas is shut-off while the pipe is repaired. Often, the technicians must risk repairing the leaks while gas continues to leak from the pipe.
- When the leaking lines are underground, technicians must excavate ground to access the leaking area of the pipe. Large excavations may be necessary where the leak is large, located on the underneath or side of the pipe, or where the repair equipment to be employed requires considerable maneuvering room. Also, many techniques employed to repair the leak require that technicians physically descend into the excavations and manually make the pipe repairs. When large volumes of gas are leaking from the pipe, accomplishing such repairs may be difficult and hazardous.
- To this end, a need exists for a device to more quickly and safely stop and repair pipelines leaking gas, for example.
- The present invention provides a clamp that may be attached to a vehicle for remotely stopping a leak in a gas line. The clamp includes a first boom having a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end. The first boom is provided with a mounting portion adjacent the first end operable to couple the clamp to a mounting structure, such as a vehicle or repair structure, for manipulating the clamp.
- The clamp also includes a second boom having a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end. The first and second booms are coupled such that the pipe engaging portions of the first and second booms are positioned to cooperate about a leak portion of a pipe. The clamp has an actuator operably coupled to at least one of the first and second booms to selectively engage the first and second pipe engaging portions about the leak portion of the pipe.
- In another aspect, the clamp includes a first boom with a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end. A first coupling portion is provided between the first and second ends of the first boom. The clamp further includes a second boom with a first end, a second end and a pipe engaging portion adjacent the second end. The first and second booms are coupled such that the pipe engaging portions of the first and second booms are positioned to cooperate about a leak portion of a pipe.
- The clamp includes a second coupling portion provided between the first and second ends of the second boom, the second coupling portion of the second boom coupled to the first coupling portion of the first boom. The clamp includes a means for selectively engaging the first and second pipe engaging portions about the leak portion of the pipe. The means is coupled to at least one of the first and second booms between the first ends of the first and second booms and the coupling of the first coupling portion of the first boom to the second coupling portion of the second boom.
- In yet another aspect, the clamp is provided with a first shoe coupled to the first boom adjacent the second end of the first boom. The first shoe provided with a surface configured to receive a first portion of a pipe. The clamp also has a second shoe coupled to the second boom adjacent the second end of the second boom. The second shoe provided with a surface configured to receive a second portion of a pipe. In this aspect, the actuator is operably coupled to selectively engage the first and second booms such that the first and second shoes cooperate to reduce gas leaking from the pipe.
- In one aspect, the present invention provides a method for repairing a leak in a gas line. The method includes providing the clamp according to one of the above aspects and remotely positioning the clamp adjacent a leak portion of the pipe. The method includes activating the actuator to engage the shoes about the pipe and disconnecting the first and second shoes from the first and second booms, respectively.
- The method provides for coupling the first and second shoes to the pipe. In one aspect, the shoes may be sized to extend laterally from the first and second booms to access and weld the first and second shoes to the pipe while the clamp retains the first and second shoes positioned to reduce the leak in the pipe. The method further includes activating the actuator to remove the clamp from the pipe such that the first and second shoes remain coupled to the pipe.
- One advantage of the present invention is the ability to remotely stop the leak in the pipe, thus eliminating the necessity for a technician to approach the leaking pipe. Another advantage of the present invention is that the first and second shoes are removably coupled to the first and second booms. Once the clamp is in place and reducing the volume of gas leaking from the pipe, the first and second shoes may be uncoupled from the first and second booms. The first and second shoes are further coupleable to the pipe for a longer-term repair solution. The clamp including the first and second booms may then be removed, leaving the first and second shoes positioned about the leak portion of the pipe.
- Another advantage is that the design of the present invention is readily adapted to withstand high pressure leaks and effectively overcome the pressure to clamp such leaks.
- Other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and appended claims.
- For a more complete understanding of the present invention and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following brief description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and detailed description, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts, in which:
- FIG. 1 illustrates a clamp for stopping gas leaks constructed according to one aspect of the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a side view of the clamp illustrated in FIG. 1 illustrating the coupling of a shoe to a boom and collet in accordance with the present invention;
- FIG. 3 illustrates the shoes illustrated in FIG. 1 coupleable adjacent a leak portion of a pipe for repairing the leak once the clamp has been removed according to one aspect of the present invention;
- FIG. 4 illustrates smaller shoes sized for repairing pipe having a smaller diameter, according to yet another aspect of the present invention;
- FIG. 5 is a view of another aspect of the collets of the present invention shown coupled to the shoes illustrated in FIG. 4;
- FIG. 6 illustrates the collets and smaller shoes, shown in FIG. 5, coupled to the clamp of the present invention;
- FIG. 7 illustrates the clamp constructed in accordance with another aspect of the present invention for stopping gas leaks;
- FIG. 8 is a side view of the clamp illustrated in FIG. 7 with collars for positioning the shoes for repairing gas leaks;
- FIG. 9 illustrates the clamp constructed in accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention for stopping gas leaks;
- FIG. 10 illustrates the clamp constructed according to another aspect of the present invention for stopping gas leaks;
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the clamp, according to one aspect, coupled to a vehicle for remotely utilizing the clamp for sealing gas leaks in pipe;
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another aspect of the clamp of the present invention shown positioned about the pipe;
- FIG. 13 is a flow-chart of a method for stopping and repairing gas leaks, according to another aspect of the present invention.
- It should be understood at the outset that although an exemplary implementation of the present invention is illustrated below, the present invention may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or in existence. The present invention should in no way be limited to the exemplary implementations, drawings, and techniques illustrated below, including the exemplary design and implementation illustrated and described herein.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a
clamp 10 constructed in accordance with the present invention for stopping and repairing leaks in pipes carrying natural gas. Theclamp 10 includes afirst boom 12 having afirst end 14 and asecond end 16. Thefirst end 14 of thefirst boom 12 may include anarm 18 adapted to mount theclamp 10 to a vehicle (not shown) for remotely employing theclamp 10. Thearm 18 may be provided, according to one aspect, withopenings 20 to couple thearm 18 to the vehicle, such as in a nut and bolt configuration. However, in other aspects, theclamp 10 may be welded to the vehicle, such as at thearm 18. - The
clamp 10 further includes asecond boom 22 having afirst end 24 and asecond end 26. Afirst shoe 28 is provided on thesecond end 16 of thefirst boom 12 and asecond shoe 30 is provided on thesecond end 26 of thesecond boom 22. The first andsecond shoes second shoes second shoes second booms - The
first boom 12 is provided with aflange 32 defining anopening 34 configured for alignment with asimilar opening 34 defined by aflange 36 of asecond boom 22. Apin 38 or other coupling may be used for retaining thefirst boom 12 movably coupled to thesecond boom 22. - The
clamp 10 is provided with anactuator 40, which may be a hydraulic cylinder coupled at afirst end 42 to thefirst boom 12 and at asecond end 44 to thesecond boom 22. Although a 4 inch hydraulic cylinder capable of generating about 25,000 pounds of pressure may be utilized in one aspect, in other aspects, cylinders of various sizes and capabilities or pneumatic cylinders or similar device may be utilized for these purposes and are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In any event, theactuator 40 may be electronically coupled, viacommunication lines 46, to the vehicle for remotely operating the actuator and theclamp 10 for these purposes. - A
portion 50 of thefirst boom 12 defines an opening for receiving apin 52 for coupling thefirst end 42 of theactuator 40 to thefirst boom 12. Aportion 54 of thesecond boom 22 defines an opening for receiving apin 56 for coupling thesecond end 44 of theactuator 40 to thesecond boom 22. It will be appreciated that while thepins clamp 10, in other aspects these components may be welded, bolted, or otherwise coupled to one another and are within the spirit and scope of the present invention. - The first and
second booms second shoes second shoes shoes - The overall configuration of the
clamp 10 is designed such that the first andsecond shoes clamp 10 provides one advantage in that a significant amount of pressure may be transferred from theactuator 40 to the second ends 14 and 24 of the first andsecond booms second shoes - In one aspect, the
clamp 10 may include afirst collet 60 coupled adjacent thesecond end 16 of thefirst boom 12. Thefirst collet 60 may be permanently coupled, or removably attached with a plurality ofcouplings 62, such as a nut and bolt configuration. In this aspect, thefirst shoe 28 is provided with afirst flange 64 and asecond flange 66 for coupling thefirst shoe 28 to thefirst collet 60, such as withcouplings 62 or by other means. Similarly, asecond collet 68 is coupled to thesecond end 26 of thesecond boom 22 in a removable manner such as with thecoupling 62 or may be permanently attached, in other aspects. Thesecond shoe 30 is provided with afirst flange 70 and asecond flange 72 for attaching thesecond shoe 30 to thesecond collet 68 such as by utilizingcoupling 62. - The configuration of the first and
second collets second shoes air gaps 73 between the first andsecond collets second shoes air gaps 73 provide another advantage of the present invention since the flexible first andsecond shoes second shoes clamp 10 is positioned, which could not be accomplished where the first andsecond shoes second collets - Referring also to FIG. 2, a side view of the
clamp 10 is shown. Although thesecond collet 68 may be constructed as a single collar in one aspect, in the present aspect, thesecond collet 68 may be provided as two substantiallyidentical pieces second collets second boom 22 utilizing thecouplings 62. Thesecond shoe 30 may extend beyond the width of thesecond collets second boom 22 and sized according to the size of the pipe to be repaired or according to the width of the repair desired based on the damage to the pipe or the leak being repaired. - The
second collets upper flanges lower flanges second shoe 30. In this manner, thesecond shoe 30 may be provided with two upperfirst flanges 70 a and 70 b and two lowersecond flanges second flange 72 a of theshoe 30 are coupled, usingcouplings 62, to theupper flange 74 a andlower flange 76 a of thesecond collets 68 a, respectively. Similarly, thefirst flange 70 b andsecond flange 72 b of theshoe 30 are coupleable, usingcouplings 62, to theupper flange 74 b andlower flange 76 b of thesecond collet 68 b. - It can be seen from the present side view that the configuration of the
second boom 22 allows access to the connection of thesecond collet shoe 30. This configuration allows thesecond shoe 30 to be connected to thesecond collet 68 during placement about the leak portion of the pipe, and subsequently disconnected once thesecond shoe 30 is positioned about the pipe for repairing the leak. The first andsecond shoes second shoes second shoes second shoes second collets - Although welding may accomplish a sufficient connection of the first and
second shoes second shoes second shoes 30 may then be uncoupled from the first andsecond collets clamp 10 may be removed. - FIG. 3 illustrates the first and
second shoes second collets clamp 10 allows for the first andsecond booms second collets second shoes - In one aspect the first and
second shoes members second shoes members members second shoes members second shoes member - It should be appreciated that while the first and
second shoes second shoes second shoes members second shoes coupling 62, a number of such connecting devices may be selected for connecting the first andsecond shoes - FIG. 4 illustrates another aspect of the first and
second shoes clamp 10 is configured to receive a plurality ofshoe second shoes second shoes - Referring also to FIG. 5, the first and
second collets second collets second booms second collets second shoe second shoes medial portions 90 of the first andsecond collets coupling 62, such as a nut and bolt configuration, may be utilized for the connection of the first andsecond shoes second collets medial portions 90 of the first andsecond collets second collets - FIG. 6 illustrates another aspect of the present invention of the
clamp 10 provided with the modified first andsecond collets second shoes clamp 10 of the present invention is provided with a plurality ofcollets shoes - In this manner, the
clamp 10 of the present aspect is advantageously provided such that technicians may arrive at the scene of a leaking pipe and, upon determining the size of the pipe to be repaired, may quickly retrieve theappropriate size collets shoes clamp 10 of the present invention for such repair without the need for amultiple clamps 10 each sized for a different diameter pipe. In other aspects, however, theclamp 10 may be utilized such thatmultiple clamps 10 each adapted for a different diameter pipe may also be utilized equally well. - FIG. 7 illustrates another aspect of the present invention of the
clamp 10 for repairing leaks in gas pipelines. In this aspect, the first andsecond booms extension members extension members second collars second collars second collars flanges second collars - One advantage of the present aspect of the
clamp 10 is that theextension members second collars actuator 40 for positioning theclamp 10 about the leak portion of the pipe. - FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of the
clamp 10 illustrated in FIG. 7. In this aspect, thesecond shoe 30 is similarly positionable by thesecond boom 22 adjacent the leak portion of the pipe. Once in position, the first andsecond shoes second booms second shoes second shoes entire clamp 10, may be provided only as a temporary repair retained in place until a convenient time to shut-off the gas in the pipeline or until a bypass or other more permanent repair to the pipeline can be accomplished. - FIG. 9 illustrates another aspect of the
clamp 10 of the present invention shown with amember 120 adapted to hingingly receive the first andsecond booms clamp 10 may be provided withmultiple actuators 40 for operating theclamp 10. In one aspect (not shown), thesecond boom 22 may be rigidly fixed to themember 120 and only asingle actuator 40 coupled to thefirst boom 12 may be employed. Themember 120 is adapted to be received by a mechanical arm or other structure for manipulating theclamp 10 for positioning about the leak portion of the pipe. - FIG. 10 illustrates another aspect of the
clamp 10 for stopping or reducing gas leaking from a pipe. In this aspect the first andsecond booms second shoes - FIG. 11 illustrates the
clamp 10 coupled to amechanical arm 130 of avehicle 132 such as a backhoe. In this manner, an operator may remotely operate theclamp 10 from thevehicle 132 and position theclamp 10 about theleak portion 134 of apipe 136. This provides another advantage of the present invention since ordinarily a repair technician places must be in a close proximity to thepipe 136 to repair thepipe 136. Theclamp 10 of the present invention coupled to thevehicle 132 allows the user of the present invention to remotely place theclamp 10 about theleak portion 134 of thepipe 136 from a safe distance. Once theclamp 10 is in position about theleak portion 134 and reducing the gas leaking from thepipe 136, the technicians may then weld or otherwise couple the first andsecond shoes second shoes pipe 136. - Although the present invention may be configured for
pipe 136 of any size, the present invention is well suited for pipe ranging in size from 2-36 inches in diameter. Also, the present invention is well suited for stopping and repairing leaks in pipe carrying fluid or gas under up to 800 pounds of pressure. - FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the
clamp 10, according to one aspect, coupled about thepipe 136 for stopping or reducing fluids or gas from leaking from thepipe 136. Theclamp 10 is shown removed from thevehicle 132 with theactuator 40 activated to engage the first andsecond booms second shoes surface 137 of thepipe 136. In this aspect, the first andsecond booms first boom 12 includes afirst portion 160 coupled to asecond portion 162 and such that thesecond boom 22 includes afirst portion 164 and asecond portion 166. - FIG. 13 illustrates a
method 200 according to one aspect of the present invention for repairing theleak 134 portion of thepipe 136. At ablock 202, the method includes providing theclamp 10 as described and disclosed above. At ablock 204, the method includes positioning theclamp 10 adjacent theleak portion 134 of thepipe 136. As previously discussed, one advantage of the present invention is the ability to remotely replace and manipulate theclamp 10 remotely by coupling theclamp 10 to thevehicle 132 or other fixed structure or equipment utilized for these purposes. - At a
block 206, the method provides for activating the actuator to engage theclamp 10 about theleak portion 134 of thepipe 136. At theblock 206, the user of the present invention may actuate theactuator 40 remotely where thecommunication lines 46 are coupled to theactuator 40 and extend to, for example, thevehicle 132. At ablock 208, the method includes coupling the first andsecond shoes - At a
block 210, the method includes disconnecting theshoes second shoes second booms block 212, for activating the actuator to remove theclamp 10 from thepipe 136. Thereafter, the repair technicians may weld or otherwise make a permanent repair to thepipe 136, or in some aspects, may maintain theclamp 10 engaged about theleak portion 134 of thepipe 136 until such time as a permanent repair, such as a bypass, can be made. - Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided, in accordance with the present invention, a clamp for stopping and repairing gas leaks that satisfies one or more of the advantages set forth above. Although the preferred embodiment has been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made herein without departing from the scope of the present invention, even if all of the advantages identified above are not present. For example, the various elements or components may be combined or integrated in another system or certain features may not be implemented.
- Also, the techniques, systems, sub-systems, and methods described and illustrated in the preferred embodiment as discrete or separate may be combined or integrated with other systems, modules, techniques, or methods without departing from the scope of the present invention. Other items shown as directly coupled to each other may be coupled through some other interface or device, such that the items may no longer be considered directly coupled to each other but may still be in communication with one another. Other examples of changes, substitutions, and alterations are readily ascertainable by one skilled in the art and could be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/726,462 US20040108010A1 (en) | 2002-09-26 | 2003-12-03 | Clamp for stopping gas leaks |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/255,357 US6675836B1 (en) | 2002-09-26 | 2002-09-26 | Clamp for stopping gas leaks |
US10/726,462 US20040108010A1 (en) | 2002-09-26 | 2003-12-03 | Clamp for stopping gas leaks |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/255,357 Continuation US6675836B1 (en) | 2002-09-26 | 2002-09-26 | Clamp for stopping gas leaks |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20040108010A1 true US20040108010A1 (en) | 2004-06-10 |
Family
ID=29780350
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/255,357 Expired - Fee Related US6675836B1 (en) | 2002-09-26 | 2002-09-26 | Clamp for stopping gas leaks |
US10/726,462 Abandoned US20040108010A1 (en) | 2002-09-26 | 2003-12-03 | Clamp for stopping gas leaks |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/255,357 Expired - Fee Related US6675836B1 (en) | 2002-09-26 | 2002-09-26 | Clamp for stopping gas leaks |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (2) | US6675836B1 (en) |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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US20030141716A1 (en) * | 2002-01-15 | 2003-07-31 | Azar Samuel K. | Method and apparatus for repairing a water main break |
US20070045003A1 (en) * | 2005-08-29 | 2007-03-01 | Ocean Design, Inc. | Cable seal assembly and method |
US20070044858A1 (en) * | 2005-08-29 | 2007-03-01 | Cairns James L | Pipe seal assembly and method |
US20070273151A1 (en) * | 2006-05-28 | 2007-11-29 | Eliezer Krausz | Cast flange for pipe couplings |
US20100129221A1 (en) * | 2007-04-24 | 2010-05-27 | Tidal Generation Limited | Underwater structures |
US20120090719A1 (en) * | 2010-10-18 | 2012-04-19 | Jinrong Wang | System and Method of Sealing Process Leaks |
WO2017136513A1 (en) * | 2016-02-04 | 2017-08-10 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Apparatus and method to contain flange, pipe and valve leaks |
US9869149B2 (en) | 2014-09-29 | 2018-01-16 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Scissor-mechanism closing rams of blow out preventors |
RU184039U1 (en) * | 2017-08-17 | 2018-10-12 | Федеральное государственное образовательное учреждение высшего образования "Сибирский государственный автомобильно-дорожный университет (СибАДИ)" | Device for sealing a damaged section of a trunk pipeline by flattening and blocking a pipe cross section |
US10370926B2 (en) | 2014-09-29 | 2019-08-06 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Apparatus and method to contain flange, pipe and valve leaks |
US10655419B2 (en) | 2014-09-29 | 2020-05-19 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Vehicle mounted blowout preventor equipment |
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US20020144575A1 (en) * | 1999-09-17 | 2002-10-10 | David Niven | Gripping or clamping mechanisms |
GB2393229B (en) * | 2002-09-17 | 2004-11-24 | Petronas Res & Scient Services | Method and means of repairing a pipe |
US6675836B1 (en) * | 2002-09-26 | 2004-01-13 | Basic Resources, Inc. | Clamp for stopping gas leaks |
CN101701657B (en) * | 2009-09-21 | 2012-07-18 | 芜湖新兴铸管有限责任公司 | Device and method for repairing expansion joint of gas pipeline |
US20110277297A1 (en) * | 2009-11-16 | 2011-11-17 | Kleiman Rich | Method and Tool for Installing and Removing Tracks on Vehicles |
NL2005542C2 (en) * | 2010-10-18 | 2012-04-19 | Ihc Handling Systems Vof | Clamping device. |
GB201102784D0 (en) * | 2011-02-17 | 2011-03-30 | Stats Uk Ltd | Pipe sealing |
US9273814B1 (en) * | 2013-11-11 | 2016-03-01 | Innovative Maintenance Products, LLC | Apparatus for patching non-linear pipe sections and method of utilizing the same |
US9759366B2 (en) * | 2014-08-13 | 2017-09-12 | John N. Long | Water main break repair tool |
US10119646B1 (en) | 2015-06-18 | 2018-11-06 | Mathey Investments, Inc. | Hydraulic chain clamp apparatus for pipe repair sleeves |
GB2540963A (en) * | 2015-07-31 | 2017-02-08 | Stats (Uk) Ltd | Pipe sealing apparatus & method |
CN117307870B (en) * | 2023-11-10 | 2024-06-18 | 北京燃气昌平有限公司 | Quick shutoff system of medium-low pressure gas pipeline leakage |
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US20120090719A1 (en) * | 2010-10-18 | 2012-04-19 | Jinrong Wang | System and Method of Sealing Process Leaks |
US9869149B2 (en) | 2014-09-29 | 2018-01-16 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Scissor-mechanism closing rams of blow out preventors |
US10370926B2 (en) | 2014-09-29 | 2019-08-06 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Apparatus and method to contain flange, pipe and valve leaks |
US10655419B2 (en) | 2014-09-29 | 2020-05-19 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Vehicle mounted blowout preventor equipment |
WO2017136513A1 (en) * | 2016-02-04 | 2017-08-10 | Saudi Arabian Oil Company | Apparatus and method to contain flange, pipe and valve leaks |
RU184039U1 (en) * | 2017-08-17 | 2018-10-12 | Федеральное государственное образовательное учреждение высшего образования "Сибирский государственный автомобильно-дорожный университет (СибАДИ)" | Device for sealing a damaged section of a trunk pipeline by flattening and blocking a pipe cross section |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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AS | Assignment |
Owner name: BASIC RESOURCES, INC., TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:GASTON, MICHAEL WADE;ANDREWS, LANCE RICHARD;REEL/FRAME:014767/0276 Effective date: 20020926 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ATMOS ENERGY CORPORATION, TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:BASIC RESOURCES, INC.;LSGT GAS COMPANY LLC;REEL/FRAME:021387/0429 Effective date: 20080204 Owner name: ATMOS ENERGY CORPORATION,TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:BASIC RESOURCES, INC.;LSGT GAS COMPANY LLC;REEL/FRAME:021387/0429 Effective date: 20080204 |