WO2000005558A1 - Ensemble d'essai pour controler l'integrite de l'etancheite aux fluides de raccords de canalisations - Google Patents

Ensemble d'essai pour controler l'integrite de l'etancheite aux fluides de raccords de canalisations

Info

Publication number
WO2000005558A1
WO2000005558A1 PCT/US1999/016537 US9916537W WO0005558A1 WO 2000005558 A1 WO2000005558 A1 WO 2000005558A1 US 9916537 W US9916537 W US 9916537W WO 0005558 A1 WO0005558 A1 WO 0005558A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
baffle
test
removal
carriage
fluid
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1999/016537
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Donald G. Huber
Original Assignee
Huber Donald G
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Huber Donald G filed Critical Huber Donald G
Priority to CA002337934A priority Critical patent/CA2337934A1/fr
Priority to AU51212/99A priority patent/AU5121299A/en
Publication of WO2000005558A1 publication Critical patent/WO2000005558A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G01—MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01M—TESTING STATIC OR DYNAMIC BALANCE OF MACHINES OR STRUCTURES; TESTING OF STRUCTURES OR APPARATUS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G01M3/00—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures
    • G01M3/02—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum
    • G01M3/26—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors
    • G01M3/28—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipes, cables or tubes; for pipe joints or seals; for valves ; for welds
    • G01M3/2853—Investigating fluid-tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipes, cables or tubes; for pipe joints or seals; for valves ; for welds for pipe joints or seals

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the testing of pipes and other fluid transfer lines; more particularly, it relates to method and apparatus for non-destructive pressure testing of installed pipelines.
  • a principal application of the invention is in the testing of drain systems and other building plumbing lines.
  • Sullivan U.S. patent number 4,429,568 discloses a closure plug for pressure testing a liquid drain and vent plumbing type system. Sullivan uses a clean-out Y for access to open the plug plate assembly.
  • Cohen U.S. patent number 1,720,819 discloses a test tee having a tapered gate which closes off a house drain pipe from a drainage system. After the test has been completed, the gate is removed from the test tee and the resulting opening in the tee is closed by a cover plate.
  • Tagliarnio U.S. patent number 4,542,642 discloses a test tee having a plug which is a removable blocking disk.
  • the blocking disk engages a ledge in the test tee and seals the drainage system.
  • the diaphragm is accessible and removable through an access means.
  • Roberson U.S. patent number 4,658,861 discloses a pneumatic plug inserted through a clean-out tee to block off a house service line to the main sewer line.
  • Kennedy U.S. patent number 1,948,220 discloses a test plumbing system using a flap valve which is pivoted at an upper side of the valve seat. The flap valve is held in position by a valve adjusting rod.
  • Barber U.S. patent number 4,602,504 shows apermanently installed test fitting in which a seal diagram has a frangible, removable portion which may be broken away from the diaphragm and removed to permit service use of the system. A portion of the seal diaphragm remains permanently in the conduit with its edge exposed, posing a continuous threat of blockage and obstruction.
  • improvements in the sealing means disclosed in Barber would better suit the test fitting for use as a permanent, fully functional, non-leaking portion of the fluid transfer system in which it is used.
  • Barber discloses no means for removing the sealing means through an extended length of installed fluid line.
  • Barber 4,706,482 adds to this apparatus for monitoring pressure within the test portion of the fluid line.
  • Hasha 4,132,111 discloses a method and apparatus for leak testing.
  • the Hasha apparatus comprises a system of annular longitudinally-spaced sealing members disposed on the exterior of the pipe to test the integrity of joints without attempting to stay fluid flow in the interior of the fluid line.
  • Miller 3,712,115 discloses pipe testing apparatus comprising a pair of upper and lower axially spaced, radially expansible seals secured to each other by an elongate spacer bar to form a pipe testing assembly.
  • Huber have disclosed various apparatus for isolating and testing plumbing installations. It has been noted, however, through usage of the devices disclosed therein, that improvements might be made in the effectiveness of the seal provided in the test section, particularly by the test baffle and around the test device itself, and in means and method for removal of the baffle after the test has been completed. It has also proved possible to improve the flexibility of the baffles disclosed therein, without sacrificing the strength or pressure-resistant capabilities of the baffles, in order to facilitate easier and more efficient removal of the baffles from the fluid line following testing.
  • Inflatable balloons rarely seal the fluid line effectively, especially under moderate or high pressures, such that leakage is a common and continual problem, and testing is rarely fully effective ⁇ and typically messy or hazardous, as leaked fluid must be cleaned up or (in the case of gasses) is irretrievably introduced to the atmosphere. Threaded plugs rarely allow testing of an installed system in the form in which it will be used, thus providing at best incomplete test results; and dual-plate devices, which generally comprise substantially rigid plates having flexible polymeric perimeters, often seat themselves on dirt, rust, and other irregularities or obstructions within the fluid line, resulting again in leakage and incomplete or inaccurate testing as well as clean up or environmental hazards.
  • an object of the invention to provide an improved system for the nondestructive and non permanently-obstructing testing of the fluid tight integrity of an installed fluid transfer line such as a drain pipe or vent and wastewater system of a building. It is a particular object of the invention to provide such system in a simple and economical form which provides an improved, permanent external seal and which makes use of an improved test baffle. It is a further object of the invention to provide such a system which does not require the employment of a T- or Y-fitting for access to or removal of the test baffle, or for separate access covers, and which does nor require the replacement of parts or seals following completion of the test or the use of pneumatic or otherwise inflatable apparatus in performing the test.
  • the invention provides an improved system for the non-destructive testing of the fluid tight integrity of an installed fluid transfer line such as a drain pipe or vent and wastewater system of a building.
  • a removable test baffle is held in place between ends of adjacent sections of an installed fluid transfer line to isolate a portion of the line for testing.
  • the test system comprises a baffle carriage, a removable test baffle, and an optionally separate sleeve adapted to engage the outer surfaces of the adjacent sections of the fluid line to seal the junction and the test installation from leaking, and optionally to provide one or more gaskets between the section ends and the baffle carriage, to prevent galling and leakage.
  • the baffle carriage is an integral part of the sleeve.
  • Preferred baffles for use with the invention are flexible, of larger diameter than the fluid line, and comprise dual-gasket sealing means and means for removal of the baffles from either side of the test seal. Baffles according to the invention may be completely removed from the fluid transfer line after testing, without risk of blocking or obstructing the fluid line or potential fluid flow therethrough.
  • the test baffle preferably comprises a air of gaskets to improve the effectiveness of the baffle in sealing or isolating the line and a domed central web to facilitate testing at increased pressures.
  • the test baffle optionally further includes a lightweight, low cost ribbed construction and a means for removing the baffle from either the convex or concave side of the dome without leaving behind any portion of the baffle to impair fluid flow within the line. On removal, the baffle is flexed into a saddle shape and removed from the line without need for dismantlement of the line.
  • the invention provides a test system for non-destructive testing of the fluid- tight integrity of an installed fluid transfer line.
  • the system comprises a baffle carriage, a generally flexible, removable test baffle, and a sleeve.
  • the baffle carriage according to this aspect of the invention is adapted for disposition between the ends of two or more adjacent sections of a fluid transfer line and for releasably retaining a test baffle in such a disposition.
  • Most generally the fluid line, the baffle carriage, and all other essential features of the test system are substantially circular, as are most fluid lines such as plumbing lines, pipes, air lines, etc.
  • An interior surface of the baffle carriage comprises a circumferentially disposed recessed seat and a recessed sidewall proximate said seat. The seat and sidewall act together in conjunction with the test baffle to seal the test portion of the fluid line to facilitate testing of the integrity of the fluid line.
  • the carriage also preferably acts to retain the baffle prior to installation, so that the carriage and baffle may be handled as a single unit for packaging, distribution, transportation, and installation.
  • the sidewall of the baffle carriage comprises a frusto-conical annular surface, the surface being adapted for facilitation of the removal of the test baffle after completion of testing.
  • Producing the carriage in multiple pieces can facilitate fabrication of the test system, since re-entrant recesses and other molding and manufacturing difficulties may be reduced or eliminated altogether, and other economies may be realized.
  • the carriage acts as a conduit segment, and generally is left in place to form a permanent part of the fluid line, much as any other pipe or line segment.
  • the test baffle according to this aspect of the invention preferably is flexible, substantially circular, and has a diameter larger than an inner diameter of the ends of said fluid transfer lines.
  • the baffle comprises a first gasket, a perimeter, and a central web.
  • the first gasket is adapted to sealingly engage the seat of the baffle carriage.
  • the perimeter comprises a second gasket adapted to sealingly engage the sidewall of the carriage, and thereby to assist the first gasket in sealing the test section of the fluid line and releasably retaining the baffle in the carriage during storage, transportation, installation, etc.
  • the first and second gaskets cooperate, when the test baffle is placed within the conduit with the first gasket in contact with the seat, so that application of a pressure against said test baffle results in an improved seal between both the second gasket and the seal wall, and between the first gasket and the seat, resulting in an extremely effective and efficient seal for isolation of the fluid line.
  • the central web of the baffle is attached to the gaskets in a fluid tight engagement, so as to effect fluid-tight isolation of that portion of the fluid line to be tested.
  • the baffle has diameters larger than the inner diameter of the fluid line and at least as small as the inside diameter of the sidewall of the carriage, but preferably larger than the outside diameter of the seal seat
  • the baffle is typically composed of a flexible material.
  • the central web of the baffle may be flat but is preferably formed with a convex surface such as a dome, or a conical or partly spherical configuration, the convex surface being adapted to withstand increased pressures and thus preferably being oriented toward the portion of the line to be tested.
  • the web may be formed separately and attached to the gaskets, or may be molded or formed as integral or separable parts with them.
  • Prior art baffles comprise only a single seal, a gasket around the perimeter of the seal to engage the seat in the conduit wall.
  • Preferred baffles according to the invention comprise a second seal, this seal being disposed around the perimeter of the seal in a position to engage the seal wall which constitutes an outer limit to the conduit seal seat, and thus improved fluid-tight integrity in the seal between the test baffle and the conduit.
  • both the first seal and this second gasket seal engage the conduit when the baffle is first installed.
  • both seals are pushed into heavier contact with the baffle carriage: the second seal is pushed into heavier contact with the seal wall as a result of pressure within the conduit pushing the gasket directly into the seal wall, while pressure against the central web causes the baffle to push harder against the conduit seal seat, further improving the seal between the baffle and the conduit.
  • the first and second seals or gaskets work together in improving the overall quality of the baffle as a seal between the pressurized portion of the conduit and the outside of the system.
  • the first gasket is referred to as a high pressure seal and the second gasket as a low pressure seal because of the tendency of the second gasket to deform more substantially under an initial pressure build-up (when presumably pressures are yet relatively low) and the tendency of the first gasket to take an increasing share of the pressure load as pressure continues to increase.
  • a preferred configuration for the central web of the baffle is a pressure resistant dome, generally of spherical or part-spherical shape.
  • either side of the dome optionally comprises a plurality of ribs extending radially from the center of the dome, which generally coincides with the center of the web, to the perimeter of the baffle. These ribs serve to stiffen the dome while allowing less material to be used in fabrication of the web.
  • the perimeter of the baffle and the carriage seat further comprise, between them, a dependent circumferential skirt and a circumferential channel adapted for releasable interengagement of the skirt, whereby the baffle may be releasably attached to the carriage.
  • the channel is provided on the carriage and the skirt on the test baffle, as shown in the Figures, due to economies in the manufacture and convenience in the assembly and use of the test system, and structural advantages in supporting pressures during tests, the skirt and channel may alternatively be located in the reverse sense as well, with only small penalty in economy and convenience.
  • Preferred embodiments of the test baffle optionally comprise a removal lug having a frangible base portion adapted to tear away from the central web of the baffle in order to release a fluid and thereby relieve a fluid pressure contained behind the baffle prior to dislodgment or unseating of the baffle for removal.
  • the base portion is only partially frangible, so that an initial pulling on the removal lug causes a partial breach in the baffle web and bleeding of pressure, while continued pulling on the same removal lug will result in complete removal of the baffle.
  • Frangible base portions may be provided in a number of ways well known in the art, the most economical and therefore among the most preferred methods being to provide a scored line in the web, so that a line of reduced web thickness is created. Pulling of the removal lug in such configurations results in tearing of the web along the score line.
  • the sleeve according to this aspect of the invention is adapted to provide an external seal for the test system, ensuring that joint(s) between the baffle carriage and the fluid line are fluid tight, and optionally to aid in the retention and alignment of the carriage and test baffle.
  • the sleeve generally comprises two ends and a substantially circular inner surface adapted by means of its size and shape to accept within the interior of the sleeve the baffle carriage, and to sealingly engage the outer surface of those sections of fluid transfer line adjacent to the carriage in such a manner as to prevent leakage from the fluid line. In doing so, the sleeve holds the carriage in substantially coaxial relation to the ends of the fluid line.
  • the sleeve further includes, on its inner surface, at least one radially-depending integral gasket adapted for disposition between the carriage and one of the ends of the fluid line, so as to act as a gasket between them.
  • the sleeve comprises two such gaskets, so spaced and shaped as to accommodate the carriage between them and to hold the carriage in place during transportation, installation, and storage.
  • the sleeve is preferably long enough, particularly in those embodiments comprising integral gaskets for engagement or retention of the baffle carriage, that the ends of the sleeve overlap the ends of adjacent sections of the fluid line to ensure that all sealing requirements, including compliance with building codes in embodiments used in plumbing systems, are met.
  • Optional alternatively preferred embodiments of the sleeve further comprise a circumferentially disposed recessed seat and a recessed sidewall proximate the seat, the seat and said sidewall being adapted to releasably engage the test baffle in the manner described above for the sleeve.
  • alternative embodiments of the sleeve may comprise a baffle carrier integrally formed on their inner surface.
  • the functions of the sleeve and of the baffle carrier may be served by a single part.
  • preferred embodiments of such combination parts comprise a frusto-conical annular surface adapted for facilitation of the removal of the test baffle.
  • Preferred embodiments of the invention further comprise means for removing the baffle from the fitting or baffle carriage and the fluid transfer system following testing of the system, without need for dismantling the system.
  • the removal means may comprise a line or cord which is attached to the baffle and operated by pulling to remove the baffle from the conduit.
  • the removal means may extend from the test baffle along the fluid line to an exit, filling, or cleaning port, or to an end of an unfinished segment of the fluid line. Alteratively, a hook or other suitable tool may be used to engage and remove the baffle through an adjacent port.
  • the removal means preferably further comprises one or more lugs integrally formed with or otherwise attached to the baffle, preferably to the central web.
  • Such lugs are disposed on either the convex or the concave sides of dome-shaped webs, and in particularly preferred embodiments of the invention offering maximum flexibility for installation and testing, are located on both sides.
  • the removal means comprises a first removal lug disposed upon a concave side of said dome and/or a second removal lug disposed upon a convex side of said dome.
  • the lugs are adapted to be engaged by a removal tool which comprises, for example, either a string or line or a hook adapted to engage an eye in one or both of the lugs, or a removal line attached to one of the lugs, such a removal line comprising a float adapted to hold an end of said line at a surface of a fluid located inside the system, as for example at a cleaning port in a plumbing drain system. It has been found to be particularly advantageous to position such lugs near the perimeter of the baffle.
  • a lug, and particularly a lug located on the convex side of the dome, near the perimeter of the baffle permits relatively easy breaching of the seal once the test is completed, so that any residual differential pressure may bleed of to the unpressurized side of the seal, thus at least initially equalizing the pressure on both sides of the baffle and facilitating easing removal of the remainder of the baffle from its seat.
  • Eccentric placement of the lug also facilitates bending of the baffle during removal to ease passage of the baffle through any portions of the conduit between the isolation or test site and the system exit, and reduces the possibility and severity of snags which might occur during removal.
  • Lugs disposed on the concave side of the test baffle are most advantageously located at or near the center of the dome, to facilitate collapse and flexing of the dome as it is pulled through the gasket / perimeter portion of the baffle.
  • An optional additional feature of the test system according to the invention is a removable retainer adapted for restraining a removal line attached to a baffle removal lug during installation of the test system.
  • a retainer may be provided as a part of a test baffle assembly, for insertion within the fluid line, or within a carriage according to the invention, prior to testing.
  • the retainer serves to hold the removal line out of the way during handling and installation of the test baffle. When installation of the baffle or of the assembly is complete, the retainer is removed, thus releasing the removal line, which may then be passed through a removal port as described herein.
  • a principal application for the invention will be in drain systems and other building plumbing lines.
  • the invention will frequently compose a permanent fixture in the fluid transfer line.
  • Such embodiments will be fabricated from materials having sufficient strength, durability, and resistance to corcosion, temperature expansion or contraction, and the like, to serve the fluid transfer purpose indefinitely, in the same manner as the remainder of the fluid transfer system.
  • Figure 1 is an exploded schematic view of a preferred embodiment of a test system according to the invention.
  • Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a test system according to the invention.
  • Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of an alternative preferred embodiment of a test system according to the invention.
  • Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c are cross-sectional views of preferred embodiments of test systems according to the invention.
  • Figure 5 is a perspective view of an alternative preferred embodiment of a test system according to the invention.
  • Figure 6 is apartial cross-sectional view of an alternative preferred embodiment of a test system according to the invention.
  • Figure 7 is a partial cross-sectional schematic view of a preferred embodiment of the invention configured for testing of a fluid transfer line.
  • FIG. 8 is a cutaway schematic view of an alternative preferred embodiment of the baffle carriage and test baffle according to the invention.
  • Figure 9 is a schematic view of an alternative preferred embodiment of a test baffle according to the invention, taken as along view 9 - 9 in Figure 8 prior to breaking of the frangible base portion of the removal ear.
  • Figure 10 is a schematic sectional view of a preferred embodiment of a test system according to the invention, comprising a retainer adapted for containing a removal line during installation of the test system.
  • Figure 11 is a schematic perspective view the test system shown in Figure 10.
  • fluid includes any aggregation of matter in which the molecules are able to flow past each other without limit and without the formation of fracture planes, or which is capable of flowing and which changes shape steadily when acted upon by a force tending to change its shape, and includes, without limitation, any liquid or gas.
  • Fluid line means any pipe, tube, conduit, duct, or other fixed vehicle for the transportation or guided transfer of a fluid.
  • Test system 100 comprises baffle carriage 110, comprised in the embodiment shown of two portions 111 and 112, removable test baffle 130, and sleeve 150 (shown partially, in section), is adapted to join and temporarily seal fluid line 101.
  • Fluid line 101 comprises end sections 102 and 103.
  • test system 100 comprises clamps or other binding means 108, which serve to hold sleeve 150, and thus carriage 110 and baffle 130, in place; and sheathing 109, which helps hold test system 100 in place and also serves to protect sleeve 150 from galling or other damaging contact by binding means 108.
  • baffle carriage 110 and baffle 130 are disposed co-axially to fluid line 101 along axis 107, and in correct position (in a radial sense) for installation of the test system.
  • Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the test system of Figure 1 in an assembled or installed configuration.
  • Test baffle 130 is in sealing engagement with first portion 111 of baffle carriage 110, with first gasket or high-pressure seal 132 engaging seat 113 of the carriage and second gasket or low pressure seal 135 on perimeter 133 of the baffle engaging sidewall 114 of the carriage. In the embodiment shown, this is accomplished by inserting dependent skirt 141 , which includes first gasket 132 of the baffle, into channel 142, which is disposed on first portion 111 of carriage 110. Second portion 112 of carriage 110 is in place next to and releasably engaged by first portion 111 of the carriage.
  • Second portion 112 aids first portion 111 in retaining baffle 130, so that the entire carriage-baffle assembly may be handled and installed conveniently as a single unit. Because the diameter of second gasket 135 is greater than diameter 131 of the perimeter of the baffle, but between the diameter of sidewall 114 and the diameter of the seal seat, second gasket 135 is deformed to a greater or lesser extent from its nominal shape when the test baffle is in place. The deformation of the second gasket when the baffle is put in place provides an improved, positive seal for completion of testing of the fluid line of which conduit 101 forms a part.
  • carriage 110 and baffle 130 are coaxially aligned with fluid line 101, and are held in place by sleeve 150.
  • First end 154 of sleeve 150 is disposed about and is in sealing engagement with outer surface 105 of end 102 of one section of fluid line 101.
  • second end 155 of sleeve 150 is disposed about and is in sealing engagement with outer surface 106 of end 103 of a second section of fluid line 101.
  • Gaskets 153 which are integrally formed on inner surface 151 ( Figure 1) of sleeve 150, serve to enhance the seal by interposing between ends 102 and 103 of the fluid line and baffle carriage 110.
  • Clamps or binding means 108 are in place about sheathing 109, which is wrapped about the outer surface of sleeve 150. Clamps 108 and sheathing 109 provide additional strength and security to the joint between the carriage and the fluid line, and serve to enhance the seal between of those portions as well.
  • Ends 152 of sleeve 150 are of sufficient length that they overlap the ends of adjacent sections 102 and 103 of fluid line 101 with a length 160 sufficient to ensure that all sealing requirements, including compliance with building codes in embodiments used in plumbing systems, are met.
  • the particular length 160 of ends 152 will vary depending upon the application to which a particular fluid line is to be put, the nature of the testing to be performed, and any applicable code or design requirements. The selection of a suitable length is well within the ability of a designer of ordinary skill in the art, once armed with this disclosure and any applicable requirements.
  • diameter 131 of baffle 130 is larger than diameter 104 of fluid line 101, and at least as large as the inner diameter of sidewall 114 of the baffle carrier.
  • baffle 130 With baffle 130 in place as shown in Figure 2 and retained by carriage 110 and sleeve
  • test system 100 is configured to seal aportion of fluid line 101 extending in either direction from baffle 130.
  • baffle 130 In embodiments of the invention comprising flat baffle webs, it is of little significance which side of the baffle is pressurized.
  • test baffle 130 In embodiments comprising baffles having domed webs, such as that shown in Figure 2, it is prefened that test baffle 130 be oriented such that convex side 136 of web 134 is exposed to the test pressure during testing of the fluid line, so as to realize the structural advantages inherent in such a domed arrangement.
  • system 100 in Figure 2 is oriented in the preferred disposition for testing that portion of fluid line 101 terminating in end 102.
  • the removal system comprises lugs 170 and 171 attached to removal lines 174 and 174'.
  • Removal line 174 is depicted as a string, and removal line 174' as a strap — as for example a nylon or other polymeric strap.
  • Removal lines 174 and 174' are attached to the test baffle by means of eyes 173 in lugs 171 and 172. Line 174 is tied directly to the lug through the eye, while strap 174' is attached by means of connector 176.
  • the removal baffle may be removed by insertion of a hook or other tool through eye 173, whereupon pulling on the hook or tool may result in removal of the baffle.
  • a hook or other tool would engage the removal lug in much the same fashion as that of connector 176.
  • a preferred means for removing baffle 130 from the fluid line once testing has been completed is to pull it through by means of either of lugs 171 or 172 provided on either the pressurized or unpressurized side of the test baffle.
  • lugs 170 and 171 are provided on both the convex and concave sides of dome 134.
  • both lugs are provided with eyes 173 for engagement by a removal means such as a string or other line, as shown in Figure 2, or by a retrieval hook 177 as shown in Figure 4b.
  • Retrieval hook 177 would extend to a clean-out port or other orifice communicating with the exterior of the system, such as an open pipe end.
  • test baffles are further provided with means for retaining a string 174 attached to a removal lug in a desired position, typically near the center of the baffle, so that the string does not become fouled or trapped in an unwanted location during assembly of the fluid line.
  • a preferred retaining means 139 is shown in Figure 5.
  • Retaining means 139 comprises a pair of raised parallel ridges spaced so as to provide an interfering fit and thus a releasable engagement for string 174.
  • a preferred optional addition is a float 178 (Figure 5) attached to the free end of the string and disposed on installation of the baffle within the conduit at a location easily accessible following completion of the test, as for example as shown in my patent no. 4,936,350.
  • a particularly advantageous disposition of removal lugs provided on the convex side of domed test baffle 130 is proximate the perimeter of the baffle, as close to the edge of the baffle as is possible without causing the lug, other portions of the baffle, or the removal means to foul the side of the conduit during installation, testing, or removal.
  • lug 171 in Figures 4a, 4b, and 4c is located proximate perimeter 133 of on the convex side of baffle 130, in a position in which neither the lug nor removal means 174 will foul the inner surface of conduit member 102 when the baffle is removed.
  • Placing the lug eccentrically is especially advantageous in that it has the effect, when the lug is pulled by a removal means, of concentrating the force applied to the baffle by the removal means to a relatively small section of the baffle, and to the seal provided to the conduit by the baffle, thus easing the breaking of the seal and the release of any residual pressure inside the tested fluid line through a localized breach.
  • eccentric placement of the lug helps ensure that the baffle will be pulled back and flexed into a saddle shape inside the conduit suitable for easy removal of the baffle, without requiring undue force to pull the baffle through the conduit and with minimal danger of snagging pipe joints, etc.
  • Lugs on the concave side of a baffle dome are preferably placed at or near the center of the dome, in order to best use the flexibility of the dome to collapse the dome and allow it to be pulled from the carriage, as shown in Figure 4c.
  • baffle on which to attach a removal means is a simple matter dependent upon the nature of the fluid line to be tested and the conditions of the proposed test, and is well within the ability of those of ordinary skill in the art.
  • the removable test baffle is of an outside diameter greater than the inside diameter of the pipeline in which it is installed, it is important that the baffle be flexible. Flexibility of the baffle facilitates its deformation so as to fit through the fluid transfer line once testing is complete. At the same time, however, it is advantageous that the baffle web be strong, so as to resist as much pressure within the fluid line during testing as possible.
  • baffles according to the invention with a plurality of ribs extending radially from a center of said web to said perimeter.
  • Such ribs are shown in Figure 5.
  • Ribs 138 radiate from the center of dome 134, which lies at or about the center of retaining means 139. Ribs 138 serve to strengthen dome 134 and increase its ability to withstand pressures within the fluid line, especially pressures applied to convex side 136. Ribs 138 are preferably molded, formed, or machined integral extensions of web 134.
  • central webs 134 of the baffle according to the invention may advantageously be provided in either flat or domed configurations.
  • FIGS. 5 and 6 show alternative combined embodiments of the sleeve and baffle carrier of the invention.
  • Sleeve 150' serves the functions of both baffle carrier and sleeve.
  • High pressure seal 132 of baffle 130 is adapted for engagement of seat 113 while second gasket or low pressure seal 135 engages sidewall 158, which comprises frusto-conical annular surface 115.
  • Gasket 153 is disposed, following assembly of the apparatus, between end 102 of fluid line 101 and baffle 130, while surface 159 acts as a gasket and additional seal, in fashion similar to that of gasket 153, for end 103 of the fluid transfer line.
  • surface 159 acts as a gasket and additional seal, in fashion similar to that of gasket 153, for end 103 of the fluid transfer line.
  • FIG. 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of another alternative preferred embodiment of a test system according to the invention.
  • Baffle carriage 110 comprises seat 113 (which includes channel 142) and sidewall 114, while sleeve 150" comprises frusto-conical surface 115 as an integral part of gasket 153".
  • Sleeve 150" further comprises gaskets 157, which enhance the seal provided by sleeve 150" on tube ends 102 and 103 of the fluid line.
  • Fluid test system 100 is in place at and between sections 102 and 103 of fluid transfer line 101.
  • Sleeve 150 holds carriage 110 and thereby baffle 130 in substantially co-axial alignment with the fluid line.
  • the components of test system 100 provide a fluid-tight seal of the fluid line at the joint between sections 102 and 103 of the fluid line.
  • test baffle may be removed via access or cleaning port 161, or by pulling the baffle out the other end of the fluid line by means of removal lug 172.
  • a test baffle having a removal lug comprising a frangible base portion is shown in Figures 8 and 9.
  • Baffle 130 comprises removal lug 172, which in turn comprises a frangible base portion defined by score line 179.
  • An initial pulling on removal lug 172 results in tearing along score line 179, so that surfaces 180 are exposed and a test pressure retained on the convex side of the baffle is allowed to drain or bleed off through the resultant breach, in a direction generally indicated by arrow 181.
  • Continued tension on line 174 results in collapse of dome 134 as shown in Figure 4c so that the baffle may be removed.
  • FIGS 10 and 11 show an optional embodiment of the invention comprising a removable retainer for restraining a removal line attached to a lug on the baffle during installation of the test system.
  • baffle 130 and retainer 161 are in place within seat or channel 113 in fluid line section 105, effectively sandwiched between the ends of fluid line sections 105 and 106, and preferably adhered or attached to the rim or circumference of the test baffle to facilitate storage, handling, and installation of the test baffle and the removal means.
  • Lug 172 optionally protrudes through a central portion of web 162 of the retainer.
  • Web 162 is optionally frangibly attached to rim 163 of retainer 161 and is easily removable by means of tearing the retainer out along circumferential score line 179.
  • retainer 161 effectively contains removal line 174, so that the line is not fouled during installation, and does not interfere with the installation process.
  • retainer 161 has been provided with tear out hole 164.
  • a finger or other tool To remove the retainer, the user inserts a finger or other tool through a hole provided for that purpose, or punctures web 161 and pulls web 162 away from the remainder of the retainer. If a rim 163 has been provided, it may be removed at the same time, or along with test baffle 130, or may be left in place indefinitely. Removal is optionally further facilitated by providing a membrane, in embodiments which use membranes, with a score line or other means for making the membrane frangible proximate inner circumference 312 of the baffle. In embodiments in which a membrane is used, the membrane may be solid (as shown) or perforated, or in any other suitable configuration.
  • the various components of the invention may be made from any material having qualities suitable for meeting the purposes suggested herein. It has been found particularly both economically and functionally advantageous, however, in building plumbing lines intended for draining wastewater, to fabricate conduit sections and baffle carriages from injection molded styrene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and other common building plumbing materials.
  • Test baffles and sleeves including sleeves adapted to perform the function of the baffle carriage, are advantageously constructed of suitably strong but flexible materials such as natural or synthetic rubber or other suitable polymer. Where present, optional removal means retainers and storage membranes are made of materials similar to those used for the test baffle, or from cardboard, styrofoam, or any other suitable material.
  • the invention finds applicability in the isolation and interconnection of fluid transfer lines such as vent and wastewater systems where pressure testing of portions of the fluid line is required or useful.

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système amélioré d'essai non destructif permettant de contrôler l'intégrité de l'étanchéité aux fluides dans une conduite de transfert de fluide installée, telle qu'une canalisation d'évacuation, un système de ventilation et d'évacuation des eaux usées d'un immeuble. Une chicane d'essai amovible est positionnée entre les extrémités (102, 103) de sections adjacentes d'une conduite (101) de transfert de fluide installée afin d'isoler une partie de la conduite et de permettre de procéder à des contrôles d'intégrité de l'étanchéité. Le système d'essai comprend un chariot (110) à chicanes, une chicane (130) d'essai amovible et une gaine (150) adaptée pour venir au contact des surfaces extérieures des sections adjacentes afin d'empêcher les fuites au niveau de la jonction et de l'installation d'essai par l'aménagement d'un ou de plusieurs joints d'étanchéité (153) entre les extrémités (102, 103) des sections et le chariot (110) à chicanes, le chariot à chicanes pouvant être une partie solidaire de la gaine. Les chicanes préférées de cette invention sont des dômes flexibles (130) et elles comprennent des moyens d'étanchéité à double joint, ces chicanes étant complètement amovibles de la conduite de transfert de fluide de chaque côté du joint d'essai après les essais, sans risque de blocage ou d'obstruction de la conduite de fluide, ce qui permet de procéder à un type non destructeur de contrôle d'intégrité de l'étanchéité aux fluides.
PCT/US1999/016537 1998-07-22 1999-07-21 Ensemble d'essai pour controler l'integrite de l'etancheite aux fluides de raccords de canalisations WO2000005558A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CA002337934A CA2337934A1 (fr) 1998-07-22 1999-07-21 Ensemble d'essai pour controler l'integrite de l'etancheite aux fluides de raccords de canalisations
AU51212/99A AU5121299A (en) 1998-07-22 1999-07-21 Test assembly for fluid tight integrity of pipeline joint

Applications Claiming Priority (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US9368298P 1998-07-22 1998-07-22
US60/093,682 1998-07-22
US10237298P 1998-09-29 1998-09-29
US60/102,372 1998-09-29
US12052399P 1999-02-17 1999-02-17
US60/120,523 1999-02-17

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2000005558A1 true WO2000005558A1 (fr) 2000-02-03

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US1999/016537 WO2000005558A1 (fr) 1998-07-22 1999-07-21 Ensemble d'essai pour controler l'integrite de l'etancheite aux fluides de raccords de canalisations

Country Status (3)

Country Link
AU (1) AU5121299A (fr)
CA (1) CA2337934A1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2000005558A1 (fr)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN103954412A (zh) * 2014-05-16 2014-07-30 大连理工大学 海洋柔性立管接头密封系统性能测试装置
CN111486295A (zh) * 2020-03-09 2020-08-04 无锡市政设计研究院有限公司 一种消火栓止水器

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US3919880A (en) * 1971-06-09 1975-11-18 Siemens Ag Method and apparatus for testing closed-end tubes in heat exchangers of nuclear reactors and the like
US4203473A (en) * 1976-11-12 1980-05-20 Roberson Walter H Closure plug assembly
US4407171A (en) * 1981-07-10 1983-10-04 Hasha Malvern M Apparatus and method for hydrostatically testing sealing face surfaces of tubular joints
US4429568A (en) * 1982-04-30 1984-02-07 Sullivan Richard N Closure plug assembly for pressure testing liquid drain and vent plumbing pipe systems
US4706482A (en) * 1985-02-27 1987-11-17 Barber John C Permanently-installed test fitting
US4890483A (en) * 1986-12-19 1990-01-02 Manfred Vetter Apparatus for testing the watertight capacity of pipes
US5163480A (en) * 1988-10-03 1992-11-17 Huber Donald G Conduit isolation diaphragm assembly
US5507501A (en) * 1994-08-30 1996-04-16 Palmer; Dennis D. Sealing disc used in hydraulic testing of plumbing system
US5740830A (en) * 1996-12-30 1998-04-21 Mankins John M Testing of plumbing installations
US5844127A (en) * 1995-01-23 1998-12-01 Berube; Guy Apparatus for isolating or testing a pipe segment

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3919880A (en) * 1971-06-09 1975-11-18 Siemens Ag Method and apparatus for testing closed-end tubes in heat exchangers of nuclear reactors and the like
US4203473A (en) * 1976-11-12 1980-05-20 Roberson Walter H Closure plug assembly
US4407171A (en) * 1981-07-10 1983-10-04 Hasha Malvern M Apparatus and method for hydrostatically testing sealing face surfaces of tubular joints
US4429568A (en) * 1982-04-30 1984-02-07 Sullivan Richard N Closure plug assembly for pressure testing liquid drain and vent plumbing pipe systems
US4706482A (en) * 1985-02-27 1987-11-17 Barber John C Permanently-installed test fitting
US4890483A (en) * 1986-12-19 1990-01-02 Manfred Vetter Apparatus for testing the watertight capacity of pipes
US5163480A (en) * 1988-10-03 1992-11-17 Huber Donald G Conduit isolation diaphragm assembly
US5507501A (en) * 1994-08-30 1996-04-16 Palmer; Dennis D. Sealing disc used in hydraulic testing of plumbing system
US5844127A (en) * 1995-01-23 1998-12-01 Berube; Guy Apparatus for isolating or testing a pipe segment
US5740830A (en) * 1996-12-30 1998-04-21 Mankins John M Testing of plumbing installations

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN103954412A (zh) * 2014-05-16 2014-07-30 大连理工大学 海洋柔性立管接头密封系统性能测试装置
CN111486295A (zh) * 2020-03-09 2020-08-04 无锡市政设计研究院有限公司 一种消火栓止水器

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AU5121299A (en) 2000-02-14

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