Classifications

• • 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
  • F16L55/172—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 the ring, band or sleeve being tightened by a tangentially arranged threaded pin and a nut

Definitions

• the disclosure relates to enclosing a pipe segment that either leaks or may develop a leak in near future. Specifically, it discloses an enclosure designed for enclosing a pipe segment, a clamp for clamping the enclosure, and a sealing enclosure. Additionally, an enclosure system for enclosing the pipe segment and a method for utilizing this system are also disclosed.
• a “fluid transportation means” may refer to any tubular structure, such as a pipe, tube, valve, or any other means for transporting fluids from one location to another.
• the fluid transportation means is herein referred to as "the pipe.”
• the pipe may be susceptible to various factors that may lead to leaks. These factors include manufacturing errors (such as faulty seals or attachments), unintentional deformations, external wear (such as corrosion), internal wear (corrosion or wear in bent or deformed segments), and aging. Consequently, enclosing pipe segments may become necessary to prevent expected leaks to the surroundings or to address ongoing leakage. Rapid enclosure not only mitigates safety hazards associated with leaks but may also minimize fluid flow disruptions.
• a modular enclosure system offers several advantages. In the event of a leak, it allows for efficient enclosure without extensive engineering efforts. Furthermore, if a leak is contained within a pipe segment, and subsequently the defect causing the leak spreads beyond that pipe segment, a modular system may be extended along the pipe with minimal effort.
• the pipe would be perfectly round, straight, and leak-free.
• pipes may have an oval shape, minor deformations, and tolerances related to an outer diameter. Additionally, varying support along the length of the pipe may cause deviations from perfect straightness. These factors complicate the external enclosure of leak-prone pipe segments.
• Document CN203703498 discloses a pipe body leakage stopping device comprising split chambers that enclose a leaking pipe.
• the split chambers are positioned adjacently along the pipe, allowing a clamping ring to connect them. While the clamping ring features a seal, a portion between the chamber seals and the clamping ring lacks sealing. Consequently, small leaks may occur in the split between the chambers and the clamping ring, preventing the connection of multiple chambers in series without risking leakage.
• the rigid connection between the chambers and the clamping ring due to inwardly extending flanges with perpendicular edges, may result in uneven pressure of the chamber seals if the pipe has minor deformations or is not perfectly straight.
• Sensitivity of the chamber seals to movement between the clamping rings, the chambers and the pipe is a critical consideration. These movements may arise when the internal pressure of the pipe fluctuates, leading to changes in tension within the pipe wall. Maintaining a secure and reliable seal under varying conditions is essential for effective pipe enclosure systems.
• the document US2022099231 discloses a modular leak repair system comprising interconnected chambers linked by couplers.
• an injectable sealant is employed to create a tight seal between the repair system and the pipe, effectively enclosing any leaks along the entire length of the system. While the system exhibits high modularity before the sealant injection, its modularity decreases once the sealant is applied. If a post-inspection reveals the necessity for additional chambers to enclose a longer pipe segment, the process of adding these sections may be labour-intensive.
• the injectable sealant's sensitivity to movement between chambers and couplers presents challenges.
• the couplers are rigidly coupled with the shoulder faces, rendering the system sensitive to minor deformations or deviations from straightness, similar to the approach
• a clamp device is for repairing a damaged part of a pipe section.
• the clamp device has a patch member and a support structure having a clamp body supporting the patch member.
• the clamp device has a first engagement member configured to engage with a first part of the pipe section and a second engagement member configured to engage with a second part of the pipe section.
• the clamping device has a first mechanism configured to engage the first engagement member with the first part and compress the patch member at the damaged part, and a second mechanism configured to engage the second engagement member with the second part and induce a compressive force between the first engagement member and the second engagement member.
• the disclosure has for its object to remedy or to reduce at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art, or at least provide a useful alternative to prior art.
• the object is achieved through features, which are specified in the description below and in the claims that follow.
• the disclosure is defined by the independent patent claims.
• the dependent claims define advantageous embodiments of the disclosure.
• the disclosure relates more particularly to an enclosure for enclosing a pipe segment, the enclosure forms a central axis and comprises at least two enclosure portions, each enclosure portion forms two mating surfaces, the at least two enclosure portions are configured to be arranged around the central axis and have their respective mating surfaces mate in a complimentary fit and form an enclosure wall, a first end section, and a second end section, the enclosure wall is configured to fit around the pipe segment, the first end section forms a first opening adapted to accommodate the pipe in one end, the second end section forms a second opening adapted to accommodate the pipe in an opposite end, wherein:
• P313UPC00 - the first end section and the second end section each comprises a coupling profile
• the mating surfaces each comprises a mating sealing means extending from the coupling profile in the first end section to the coupling profile in the second end section; wherein the at least two enclosure portions each comprise a seal groove in the enclosure wall in the first end section for accommodating a section of a circumferential seal, the seal grooves are positioned to align when the enclosure portions are in said arrangement around the central axis, the circumferential seal is configured to provide a seal between the enclosure wall and the pipe, the seal groove is adjacent or connected to the mating sealing means.
• the mating surface may be parallel to the central axis.
• the mating surfaces may include portions that are perpendicular or angled in relation to the central axis.
• the mating surfaces extend from one end to the opposite end of the enclosure, such as from the first end section to the second end section. Consequently, the enclosure may be divided into at the least two connectable enclosure portions, each serving as a separate body that may be connected to create the enclosure.
• the enclosure may comprise two enclosure portions, effectively creating two halves that may be connected to form the enclosure. In another embodiment, the enclosure may comprise between two and five enclosure portions.
• the enclosure comprising the connectable enclosure portions allows the enclosure to be mounted around a pipe segment without requiring any cutting of the pipe. This modular approach facilitates installation and maintenance.
• the pipe may have a diameter between 1/8 inch and 100 inches, or any other standard pipe dimension.
• the pipe may be a metal tubing known per se.
• the mating surfaces may comprise interlocking surfaces such as hinges or arms connectable to handles, for facilitating the assembly process and ensuring an efficient enclosure construction.
• the mating surface may be part of a projection projecting radially outward from the enclosure wall.
• These projections may comprise holes to accommodate bolts, allowing for rigid securement of the enclosure portions.
• the enclosure wall may be an integral part of each enclosure portion, minimizing the number of components and promoting cost-effectiveness. Alternatively, or additionally, the enclosure wall may be a separate part held in position by each enclosure portion. This flexibility enables adaptation of the enclosure to different pipe sizes.
• the coupling profile may enable the enclosure to connect to an adjacent enclosure, a sealing enclosure, or any other nearby body at any time.
• the sealing enclosure will be described in relation to the third aspect of the disclosure.
• Two adjacently positioned enclosures with coupling profiles facing each other may be securely connected using a clamp that grips both coupling profiles.
• the mating sealing means extends from the coupling profile in the first end section to the coupling profile in the section end section.
• the mating sealing means may be exposed in or extend into the coupling profile.
• Adjacent positioned enclosures may be configured such that their respective mating sealing means intersect and create pre-tension upon connection. Thus, the seal may seamlessly extend into the connected enclosure, or any other connected body.
• the mating sealing means may extend into an axial portion of the coupling profile, allowing continuous sealing across a series of connected enclosures.
• the axial portion may face in a direction along the central axis.
• a continuous seal may herein be defined as a seal that extends along another seal or a seal that spans from one seal to an adjacently positioned or intersecting seal.
• a molded seal may be placed in a groove or on a seal surface on one side and then pressed against an opposing seal surface or seal, thus creating a pre-tension in the molded seal. This effectively seals between the opposing mating surfaces.
• the material for the molded seal may vary, including options such as synthetic rubber (like fluoroelastomer) or metal materials (such as aluminium, stainless steel, or alloys), a combination thereof, or any other suitable material(s) known per se.
• the choice of material and seal shape depends on operational parameters such as pressure, temperature, and fluid type.
• the mating sealing means may be determined by a skilled person in the art once the operational parameters are known.
• the mating sealing means may be at least one of a molded seal, a seal groove, and a seal surface.
• two opposing mating surfaces may each comprise one mating sealing means in form of the molded seal. These seals may be positioned to face each other and establish the seal once the enclosure portions are arranged around the central axis.
• one mating surface may comprise the molded seal that is positioned to face the seal surface on an opposing mating surface, when the enclosure portions are arranged around the central axis.
• the mating sealing means may be at least one of an injectable sealant, a groove, and a seal surface.
• the circumferential seal being adjacent or connected to the mating sealing means allows a seal to be established therebetween. Thus, this provides the continuous seal therebetween.
• the mating surface sealing means may establish a dynamic contact with the circumferential seal.
• the dynamic contact may be characterized by the mating surface sealing means extending into the groove in a lesser distance compared to the groove's width.
• the mating surface sealing means may be
• the mating surfaces and their respective mating sealing means may provide the continuous seal across a series of interconnected enclosures.
• a fully sealed enclosure may enclose the pipe segment, effectively containing any leaks.
• the enclosure's first end section and its respective circumferential seal may face away from a center of the interconnected series of enclosures. This configuration ensures that one circumferential seal may always be present where two coupling profiles are connected. Consequently, individual enclosures may be replaced, removed from, or added into the series of connected enclosures without compromising the overall enclosure integrity.
• the at least two enclosure portions may each comprise the sealgroove in the enclosure wall in the second end section for accommodating the section of a circumferential seal, the sealgrooves are positioned to align when the enclosure portions are in said arrangement around the central axis.
• This embodiment allows one enclosure to effectively enclose a specific pipe segment that may leak. However, if a longer pipe segment requires additional enclosures, subsequent enclosures may be connected, with each enclosure equipped with their circumferential seals at both the first end section and the second end section.
• the mating surface sealing means may be actively pre-tensioned, especially if the enclosure portions and the mating surface sealing means comprise precisely machined parts with strict tolerances.
• the circumferential seal may handle an x bar pressure while the mating surface means may handle an x+y bar pressure.
• the pipe may have the x+y bar internal pressure and may leak from a leaking pipe segment contained within a center enclosure and its enclosed chamber.
• the enclosed chamber may be created by the enclosure wall, the circumferential seals, and the mating sealing means.
• a leak from each circumferential seal may occur due to the y bar pressure exceeding the x bar pressure rating of the circumferential seal.
• One or more enclosures may be connected on each side of the center enclosure forming a series of connected enclosures. By connecting a first adjacent enclosure on each side of the center enclosure creates one first adjacent enclosed chamber on each side of the center enclosure.
• the y bar pressure is lower than the x bar pressure, only one adjacent enclosure on each side of the center enclosure may be required.
• the y bar pressure is higher than the x bar pressure, more than one adjacent enclosure may be required on each side of the center enclosure. For instance, consider a scenario where the y bar pressure equals to 1.5 times the x bar pressure, which makes the pipe pressure 2.5 times the x bar pressure. A leak will occur past each circumferential seal that have a differential pressure above one times the x pressure.
• Each first adjacent enclosure may be connected to a second adjacent enclosure. A leak from the center enclosure to the first adjacent enclosures and the second adjacent enclosures are expected to occur. Once stabilized, the center enclosure may have 2.5 times the x bar pressure.
• Each connected first adjacent enclosure may have 1.5 times the x bar pressure.
• Each second adjacent enclosures may have 0.5 times the x bar pressure.
• P313UPC00 between the center enclosure and the two first enclosures are the x bar pressure and therefore no leaks between them.
• the differential pressure between the first adjacent enclosures and the second adjacent enclosures is 0.5 times the x bar pressure and therefore no leak between them.
• the circumferential seal in each end of the series of connected enclosures have a differential pressure of 0.5 times the x bar relative to the surrounding environment, which is within their rating.
• more than one enclosure may be connected to form the enclosed chamber that enclose the leaking pipe segment.
• These connected enclosures may be defined as the center enclosure, as the leak travels within these enclosures due to a leak path from the pipe.
• each added enclosure forms one enclosing chamber. Consequently, adding one enclosure, which comprises one circumferential seal, on each side of the central enclosure increases the enclosable pressure by a factor equivalent to the x bar pressure.
• each added enclosure creates two enclosing chambers. Specifically, one enclosing chamber is formed between the two circumferential seals, and another enclosing chamber is formed between the two circumferential seals positioned closest to the connected coupling profiles in the connected enclosures. Therefore, by adding one enclosure, which comprises two circumferential seals, on each side of the central enclosure, the enclosable pressure increases by two times the x bar pressure. This approach of adding additional enclosures to increase the pressure rating of the series of connected enclosures proves beneficial if a pipe pressure increase is necessary after enclosing a leak. This is relevant in relation to a fourth and a fifth aspect of the disclosure.
• the circumferential seal may be an injectable sealant.
• the injectable seal may be injected into the sealgroove via the mating sealing means.
• the circumferential seal may comprise a molded seal.
• the benefits of the molded seal have already been described and will not be reiterated.
• An appropriate seal embodiment for the circumferential seal is well-known in the field and requires no further elaboration.
• the coupling profile may be adapted to have a complimentary fit with a clamping profile, the clamping profile may be part of a clamp adapted to connect to the enclosure in the first end section and/or the second end section.
• the coupling profile may comprise a base extending along the central axis and an inclined shoulder extending from the base.
• the inclined shoulder may form an angle in a direction along and in relation to the central axis.
• the clamping profile may comprise a complementary shoulder that corresponds to the shoulder in the coupling profile. This arrangement may create a wedge effect and provides a mechanical advantage between the coupling profile and the clamping profile. Consequently, when two adjacent coupling profiles face each other, the clamping profile may force the coupling profiles together.
• the wedge effect along with its mechanical advantage, is a well-known concept in the field and requires no further elaboration.
• the shoulder and the complementary shoulder may have a gap or a clearance therebetween. This may allow for some movement between the coupling profile and the connected clamping profile. Unlike perpendicular edges, the shoulders facilitate movement with reduced stress concentrations. This movement may ensure that the circumferential seal may be positioned more appropriately, resulting in a more even pretension between the circumferential seal and the pipe along the circumference of the Pipe.
• the coupling profile in the first end section and the second end section may each extend around the first opening and the second opening, respectively, when the enclosure portions are in said arrangement around the central axis. This configuration provides a large
• P313UPC00 coupling area contrasting with designs that utilize discrete connection points.
• the stress on the coupling may be reduced, thereby allowing for the use of more economically viable materials in the enclosure.
• this design allows the coupling profile to create an area that may be used to form a seal that may be used to provide the continuous seal between two connected enclosures.
• this may be an alternative way or providing a continuous seal between two connected enclosures.
• the coupling profile in the first end section and the second end section may each comprise a coupling sealing means that extends circumferentially along the coupling profile.
• the coupling sealing means may be at least one of a molded seal, a groove, or a seal surface.
• the coupling profile may include an axial sealing means.
• This axial sealing means may be designed to interact with a corresponding axial sealing means and mating surface sealing means when two enclosures are connected in series.
• the continuous seal may extend from one end of a series of connected enclosures and to the opposite end.
• the axial seal may be sensitive to movement between connected enclosures.
• the coupling sealing means may be positioned to intersect with the mating sealing means. This provides the continuous seal from the mating sealing means and into the clamping profile.
• the coupling sealing means may be positioned to mate with the clamping profile sealing means, the clamping profile sealing means is positioned in the clamping profile.
• the coupling sealing means may be positioned in the base and configured to mate with the clamping profile sealing means, the clamping profile sealing means may be positioned in the clamping profile.
• the clamping profile sealing means may be positioned in the complimentary base in the clamping profile. The continuous seal may therefore be continued via the clamp, which is less sensitive to movement between the connected enclosures compared to the axial seal between connected enclosures. Thus, the continuous seal may reliably extend from one end to the opposite end of a series of connected enclosures.
• the coupling sealing means may be integrated in the shoulder, or more preferably, the base.
• the clamp may comprise a clamping profile sealing means positioned to mate with the coupling sealing means. Consequently, the clamp connected to the coupling profiles of two connected enclosures may provide the continuous seal between the connected enclosures.
• Using the base may be advantageous as this profile is less sensitive to movement between two connected enclosures compared to the axial seal. Thus, movement or misalignment may be allowed while maintaining the continuous seal via the clamp and not the axial sealing means.
• the coupling sealing means and the mating seal may be positioned such that an optimal position in relation to the clamping profile sealing means is attained once the enclosure wall is subjected to an internal pressure.
• a pressurized chamber formed between two axially connected parts will create a force that attempts to separate the two parts. Therefore, there may be some axial movement between two connected coupling profiles and the clamp when a pressure within the enclosure increases.
• the coupling sealing means and the mating surface sealing means may be positioned such that the optimal position in relation to the clamping profile sealing means and the clamp mating sealing means is attained once the enclosure wall is subjected to an internal pressure.
• the coupling profile when mating with the clamping profile may create a clearance between the shoulder and a complimentary shoulder in the clamping profile.
• the coupling profile when mating with the clamping profile may provide a tolerance for a misalignment between the enclosure, the clamp, and any connectable module, the misalignment is an angle between the respective central axis of the enclosure and the connectable module. If the pipe segment to be enclosed is not perfectly straight with no deformation, the tolerance for the misalignment allows the circumferential seal to establish a more uniform pre-tension around the pipe compared to an embodiment with a rigid
• the tolerance for the misalignment may be achieved by providing an axial clearance or a gap along the central axis between the shoulder in the coupling profile and the complementary shoulder in the clamp, when they are connected.
• the coupling sealing means may be positioned along the base of the coupling profile.
• the base and the complementary base in the clamping profile may be precision-machined parts with strict tolerances.
• sealing is more predicable compared to sealing between surfaces that may be sensitive to movement or misalignment, such as the axial seal and the shoulder.
• the tolerance of misalignment may be defined as less than 5 degrees, preferably less than 2 degrees.
• the coupling profile is not required to be identical in the first end section and the second end section. There may be advantages with differentiating the coupling profiles in each end section, as already mentioned.
• the enclosure may comprise a hinge comprising an elongated pins lot.
• the hinge may be positioned near the mating surfaces. This enables the enclosures to be mounted around the pipe in an arrangement where the mating surfaces are arranged parallel to each other with a gap between them. This initial arrangement, prior to final arrangement around the central axis, prevents any damage to seals.
• the seals only engage with an opposing feature, such as another seal or a seal surface, directly and not while each enclosure portion is rotating around the hinge. This allows the seals to be positioned around the central axis without any twisting force applied to the seals. Furthermore, the circumferential seals engage with the pipe during pre-tensioning, not while rotating around the hinge.
• a method for installing the enclosure around the pipe may comprise the steps of;
• the enclosure forms the central axis and comprises at least two enclosure portions, each enclosure portion forms two mating surfaces, the at least two enclosure portions are configured to be arranged around the central axis and have their respective mating surfaces mate in a complimentary fit and form the enclosure wall, the first end section, and the second end section, the enclosure wall is configured to fit around the pipe segment, the first end section forms
• P313UPC00 the first opening adapted to accommodate the pipe in one end
• the second end section forms the second opening adapted to accommodate the pipe in an opposite end
• the enclosure may be lifted in place using a lifting equipment such as a crane.
• the enclosure may be easily lifted into position around the pipe such that the hinge is positioned in an uppermost position and two mating surfaces in a lowermost position. In some pipe locations, it may be beneficial to position the mating surfaces away from the lowermost position to provide easy access when connecting the enclosure portions.
• the enclosure may comprise an attachment point on an outer surface. This enables the enclosure to be arranged around the pipe in an initial arrangement. The enclosure may then be rotated around the pipe to a final arrangement where the mating surfaces are in a desired position relative to the surrounding environment and obstructions. The rotation of the enclosure may be achieved by pulling the attachment point using a strap and the crane to create a rotational force.
• the attachment point may be the hinge. This reduces projections extending from the enclosure, manufacturing costs and areas of stress concentrations.
• the attachment point may be positioned at a distance from the mating surfaces. This allows the crane to lift the attachment point upward with minimum sideload, thus reducing complexity while rotating the enclosure around the pipe.
• the disclosure relates more particularly to a clamp for clamping an enclosure according the first aspect of the disclosure, wherein:
• the clamp comprises at least two clamping portions and forms a central axis, each clamping portion forms at least two clamp mating surfaces, the at least two clamping portions are configured to be arranged around the central axis and have their respective
• P313UPC00 clamp mating surfaces mate in a complimentary fit and form a clamping profile in a first clamp end
• the clamping profile comprises a clamping profile sealing means that extends circumferentially along the clamping profile and is configured to complementary fit with the coupling profile in the enclosure, wherein each clamp mating surface comprises a clamp mating sealing means extending between the two clamping profiles, the clamp mating sealing means intersects the clamping profile sealing means.
• the clamp mating surfaces may be arranged along the central axis. Alternatively, or additionally, the clamp mating surface may form an angle in a direction along and/or relative to the central axis.
• the clamp may be a module adapted to connect the enclosure to a connectable module, such as an adjacently positioned enclosure, a sealing enclosure, or any other suitable connectable module.
• the clamp may be an integrated part of a sealing enclosure.
• the sealing enclosure will be described in more detail in relation to the third aspect of the disclosure.
• the clamp may comprise interlocking mating surfaces akin to the enclosure in the first aspect of the disclosure.
• the clamp may comprise a projection extending radially outward from the clamping profile and forms part of the clam mating surface.
• the projection may accommodate a bolt to connect the at least two clamp portions.
• the clamp comprises two clamping portions.
• the clamp may comprise between two and four clamping portions. These embodiments enables the clamp to be mounted around the pipe segment without cutting the pipe.
• the clamp may comprise the clamping profile in a second clamp end, the second clamp end may be in the opposite end of the clamp relative the first clamp end. This enables the clamp to connect two adjacently positioned coupling profiles, that are facing each other, using one clamp.
• each clamping profile comprises a clamping profile sealing means that
• P313UPC00 extends circumferentially along each clamping profile.
• the clamping profile sealing means may be oriented radially inward.
• the clamping profile sealing means may be arranged to intersect and/or mate with the coupling sealing means.
• the continuous seal may be continued from one coupling profile, into and across the clamp, and then into the opposing and connected coupling profile.
• the clamping profile sealing means may be at least one of a molded seal, a groove, a seal surface, or a combination, and its embodiment may depend on the coupling sealing means embodiment.
• the clamping profile sealing means be in form of a molded seal and may extend from the first clamp end to the second clamp end. This removed the need to seal between the clamp mating surfaces.
• the clamping profile sealing means may extend circumferentially along each clamping profile in the first clamp end and in the second clamp end.
• clamping profile sealing means may be positioned in the complimentary base.
• the effects of sealing in the complimentary base is described in relation to the first aspect.
• each clamp mating surface comprises a clamp mating sealing means extending between the two clamping profiles.
• the clamp mating sealing means intersects with the clamping profile sealing means.
• This configuration may enable the clamp to establish the continuous seal that extends from one coupling profile and its respective coupling profile sealing means to an adjacently positioned and oppositely facing connected coupling profile and its coupling profile sealing means.
• the continues seal across the coupling profiles is not dependent on the axial seal or a wide seal.
• the clamp allows for misalignment between connected enclosures without compromising integrity of the continuous seal.
• the disclosure relates more particularly to a sealing enclosure for enclosing a pipe segment, wherein:
• the sealing enclosure comprises at least two sealing enclosure portions that in a position
• each sealing enclosure portion has at least two mutually distant sealing enclosure mating surfaces, the at least two sealing enclosure portions are configured to be arranged around the central axis and have their respective sealing enclosure mating surfaces mate in a complimentary fit and form a sealing enclosure wall, and at least one of a coupling profile and a clamping profile in a first end, the coupling profile is configured to have a complimentary fit with a clamping profile in a clamp according the second aspect of the disclosure, the clamping profile is configured to have a complimentary fit with a coupling profile of an enclosure according to the first aspect of the disclosure;
• the sealing enclosure mating surfaces comprise a sealing enclosure mating surface sealing means extending between the clamping profile or the coupling profile and an end seal;
• the at least two sealing enclosure portions form a hole in the first end and in the opposite end of the sealing enclosure for accommodating the pipe;
• the at least two sealing enclosure portions each comprises a portion of the end seal positioned in the sealing enclosure wall, the portions of the end seals are positioned to align when the sealing enclosure portions are in said arrangement around the central axis, the end seal is configured to provide a seal between the sealing enclosure wall and the pipe.
• the sealing enclosure which comprises the connectable sealing enclosure portions, allows the sealing enclosure to be mounted around the pipe segment without requiring the need for cutting of the pipe.
• the sealing enclosure may comprise two sealing enclosure portions, effectively creating two halves that may be connected to form the sealing enclosure.
• the sealing enclosure may comprise between two and five sealing enclosure portions.
• the orientation of the sealing enclosure mating surface may be parallel to the central axis.
• the sealing mating surfaces may include portions that are perpendicular or angled relative to the central axis.
• the sealing enclosure mating surface sealing means may be adjacent to or extend into the coupling profile sealing means or the clamping profile sealing means. This provides the
• the sealing enclosure mating surface sealing means is adjacent to the end seal such that the continuous seal is provided between the two seals.
• the sealing enclosure may comprise a robust end in an end opposite to the first end.
• the robust end may be adapted to withstand external forces, such as impacts from foreign objects.
• the sealing enclosure therefore avoids having an exposed coupling profile that may be damaged over time.
• the addition of an extra enclosed chamber increases the enclosable pressure.
• the sealing enclosure achieves this without adding unnecessary length along the pipe segment and provides the robust end. Therefore, if an additional enclosure needs to be connected in the series of connected enclosures, the sealing enclosure may be disconnected and reconnected as needed. This design ensures a robust and flexible sealing solution, accommodating changes without compromising the overall sealing performance.
• the sealing enclosure may comprise an activating means for activating the end seal.
• the activating means may comprise at least two activating means portions that may be connected to the sealing enclosure portions, the activating means portions may be displaceable relative to the sealing enclosure portions, and may be adapted to displace one end of the end seal in a direction along the central axis.
• the activating means may comprise at least two activating means portions for displacing one end of the end seal in a direction along the central axis.
• the sealing enclosure may comprise an activating means for displacing one end of the end seal in a direction along the central axis.
• a static seal has a limited differential pressure against which it may seal.
• One end of the end seal may be adjacent the activating means, while the opposite end of the end seal may be adjacent the seal groove.
• the activating means by displacing one end of the end seal axially towards or away from the seal groove, adjusts the pre-tension between the end seal and the pipe segment. A higher pre-tension allows the end seal to seal against a larger differential pressure compared to a lower pre-tension. Consequently, the end seal transitions from a static seal to an active seal, thus enhancing the pressure rating
• P313UPC00 of one enclosure or a series of connected enclosures, by having the sealing enclosure at each end.
• the sealing enclosure wall may be configured to create a smaller annular gap around the pipe compared to the enclosure wall.
• the end seal may be configured to seal a higher differential pressure compared to the circumferential seal, and thus may need to be provided with a greater support from the groove compared to the circumferential seal.
• the activating means may be split into portions to allow it to be connected to the pipe without necessitating the cutting of the pipe.
• the activating means may comprise at least two activating means portions that are connected to the at least two sealing enclosure portions.
• the activating means comprises two activating means portions.
• the activating means portions may be connected to the sealing enclosure portions via bolts.
• One end of each of the activating means portions may be adjacent to the end seal so that when they are displaced axially along the central axis, the pretension in the end seal is adjusted.
• An opposite end of the activating means portions may comprise a contact surface.
• the bolts may be in contact with the contact surface.
• the bolts may be arranged along the central axis. Screwing the bolts further into or out of the sealing enclosure portions may displace the activating means portions towards or away from the end seal, respectively.
• the activating means may be designed to be axially displaceable relative to the at least two sealing enclosure portions and the end seal.
• the activation means may comprise a split nut that is threaded into each of the sealing enclosure portions.
• the split nut may be positioned such that one end is adjacent to the end seal, while the opposite end includes a feature for attaching a wrench or similar tool. Consequently, by rotating the split nut, it may move axially along the central axis, relative to the sealing enclosure portions and the end seal.
• the activation means may take the form of an axially movable piston that may be connected to a pilot pressure originating from the leaking pipe. Therefore, the greater the internal pressure of the pipe, the greater the pre-tension applied to the end seal.
• the activation means may be designed in a plurality of ways and still fall within the scope of this disclosure. These are just a few examples of the possible configurations.
• the key aspect is the ability to apply and adjust the pre-tension on the end seal, which may be critical for ensuring a secure and effective seal of one enclosure or the series of connected enclosures.
• the activating means may be in the opposite end from the first end such that it is easily accessible. In an embodiment, the activating means is accessible via the robust end.
• the central axis mentioned in the first, second, and third aspects of the disclosure may be concentric. Additionally, the central axis may be concentric with a longitudinal axis of the pipe. In one embodiment where the pipe includes a bend, the central axis may extend from the first end section to the second end section of the enclosure, where the central axis is concentric with the longitudinal axis of the pipe, which is bent according to the bend in the pipe.
• the disclosure relates more particularly to an enclosure system for enclosing a pipe segment, wherein:
• the enclosure system comprises at least one enclosure according to the first aspect of the disclosure connected to an adjacently positioned connectable module;
• the connectable module is at least one of the enclosure according to the first aspect of the disclosure, a clamp according to the second aspect of the disclosure, and a sealing enclosure according to the third aspect of the disclosure.
• the enclosure system may comprise one sealing enclosure at each end of the enclosure system. As described in the third aspect of the disclosure, the pressure rating for the enclosure system is increased by adding the sealing enclosure in each end.
• the enclosure system may comprise a plurality of sealing means that intersect and/or mate within the enclosure system to provide the continuous seal between the end seal or circumferential seal at each end of the enclosure system. This provides a system that may be extended along the pipe with no leakages along the enclosure system.
• the enclosure system may comprise a center enclosure and at least one adjacently connected enclosure on each side of the center enclosure, the center enclosure is configured to encloses a leaking segment of the pipe, the at least one adjacently positioned enclosure is configured to encloses a non-leaking pipe segment. As described in relation to the first aspect of the disclosure, this increases the enclosable pressure that the series of connected enclosures, i.e., the enclosure system, may enclose.
• the coupling profile may be defined as a profile that faces radially outward.
• the clamping profile may be defined as a profile facing radially inward. Therefore, the clamping profile may be defined as a profile that connects to and grips the coupling profile radially inward.
• the disclosure relates more particularly to a method for enclosing the pipe segment, wherein the method comprises the steps of:
• the method may comprise the step of equalizing a pressure between an inside of the pipe and a surrounding environment. This step may be optional depending on safety considerations.
• the method may comprise the step of increasing the pressure in the pipe to a working pressure. This step may be optional depending on safety considerations.
• the method may comprise the step of connecting an additional enclosure to increase a pressure rating of the enclosure system.
• the additional enclosing chamber may be positioned along the pipe in a segment that does not have a leak or an expected leak in near future.
• the additional enclosure is solely added to increase the pressure rating of the enclosure system, as already described.
• the method may comprise the step of connecting one sealing enclosure according to the fourth aspect of the invention in each end of the enclosure system.
• the enclosure system may comprise the activating means described in relation to the third aspect of the disclosure, and the method may comprise the step of activating the end seal in each end of the enclosure system.
• Fig. 1 shows, in a perspective view, an enclosure portion
• Fig. 2 shows, in a perspective view, two enclosure portions creating an enclosure around a pipe segment
• Fig. 3 shows, in a detailed sideview, a coupling profile in one end of the enclosure portion
• Fig. 4 shows, in a detailed sideview, two adjacently positioned enclosures connected by a clamp
• P313UPC00 Fig. 5 shows, in a detailed sideview, the enclosure connected to a sealing enclosure via the clamp;
• Fig. 6a shows an enclosure system comprising two enclosures and two sealing enclosures connected in series;
• Fig. 6b shows, in an exploded view, the enclosure system shown in Fig 6a;
• Fig. 7 shows a method for assembling the enclosure system to enclose the pipe segment.
• Fig. 1 shows an enclosure portion with reference numeral 22.
• the enclosure portion 22 comprises an enclosure wall portion 282, which is designed to follow the circumference of a pipe 9. This is best visualized in Figs. 2, 6a and 6b.
• the enclosure portion 22 comprises a first end section portion 252 at one end of the encircling wall portion 282 and a second end section portion 262 at the opposite end. Both the first end section portion 252 and the second end section portion 262 form part of a coupling profile 29 which will be detailed in relation to Fig. 3.
• the first end section portion 252 and the second end section portion 262 comprises a seal groove in the encircling wall portion 282 that comprises a section of a circumferential seal 284.
• the section of the circumferential seal 284 takes the form of a molded seal.
• the enclosure portion 22 comprises a projection that extends radially outward from the enclosure wall portion 282 forming a mating surface 24 that extends between the first end section portion 252 and the second end section portion 262.
• Each mating surface 24 comprises a mating sealing means 242, here in the form of a molded seal.
• the mating sealing means 242 extends from the portion of the coupling profile 29 in the first end section portion 252 to the portion of the coupling profile 29 in the second end section por-
• the mating sealing means 242 is positioned adjacent to the section of the circumferential seal 284, providing a continuous seal between them. This is best seen in Fig.
• a continuous seal is herein defined as a seal that extends from one seal to another seal.
• the mating surfaces 24 include holes to accommodate bolts that are used to connect two enclosure portions 22, as best seen in Figs. 6a and 6b.
• Fig 2. shows that two enclosure portions 22 are designed to be arranged around a central axis 94 and have their respective mating surfaces 24 mate in a complimentary fit to form an enclosure wall 28.
• the enclosure wall 28 is formed by the two enclosure wall portions 282 and is designed to fit around a pipe segment 92.
• the two first end section portions 252 and the two second end section portions 262 form a first end section 25 and a second end section 26, respectively.
• the first end section 25 forms a first opening 254 for accommodating the pipe 9 at one end and the second end section 26 forms a second opening 264 for accommodating the pipe 9 at the opposite end.
• the first end section 25 and the second end section 26 each forms the coupling profile 29 that extends around the first opening 254 and the second opening 264, respectively.
• the circumferential seal 284 is positioned and configured to provide a seal between the enclosure wall 28 and the pipe 9. Therefore, when arranged in this configuration, the two enclosure portions 22 form an enclosure 2 that encloses the pipe segment 92.
• the pipe segment 92 is a part of the pipe 9 that may have a leak or may be suspected to leak in the near future and needs to be enclosed.
• the enclosure 2 comprises a hinge 4 which aids in mounting the two enclosure portions 22 around the pipe 9.
• Each hinge 4 comprises a pin 44 and an elongated pins lot 42, as best seen in Fig. 6b.
• the two enclosure portions 22 are initially arranged around the pipe 9 such that the mating surfaces 24 are arranged parallel to each other with a gap between them. Once the enclosure portions 22 are arranged in this manner, they are moved towards each other and into the arrangement around the central axis 94 when the bolts are tightened, or the enclosure portions 22 are forces together by other means. This process ensures that the mating surface sealing means 242 and the circumferential seal 284 are positioned with
• Fig. 3 shows the coupling profile 29 which comprises a base 294 extending along the central axis 94 and a shoulder 296 extending from the base 294.
• the shoulder 296 forms an angle in a direction along and relative to the central axis 94.
• the shoulder is therefore inclined with respect to the central axis 94.
• the coupling profile 29 comprises a coupling sealing means 292 in the form of a seal surface which is precision-machined.
• the coupling sealing means 292 is part of the base 294.
• the mating sealing means 242 extends into the coupling profile 29.
• the coupling sealing means 292 intersects the mating sealing means 242, providing a continuous seal therebetween.
• Fig. 4 shows in larger scale two enclosures 2 positioned adjacently in series, where each enclosure 2 has the coupling profile 29 facing the other coupling profile 29.
• the two coupling profiles 29 are connected via a clamp 6.
• the clamp 6 comprises, like the closures 2, two clamping portions 62, where each clamping portion 62 forms two clamp mating surfaces 64, as best seen in Fig. 6b.
• the two clamping portions 62 are designed to be arranged around the central axis 94 and have their respective clamp mating surfaces 64 mate in a complimentary fit.
• the clamp 6 forms a clamping profile 68 in a first clamp end 622 and in a second clamp end 624.
• the clamping profile 68 comprises a complimentary shoulder 686 and a complimentary base 684 having a complementary fit with the shoulder 296 and the base 294 in the coupling profile 29, respectively.
• the clamping profile 68 has a complementary fit with the coupling profiles 29 such that the adjacently positioned enclosures 2 are connected to form a series of connected enclosures 2.
• the complementary shoulder 686 in the first clamp end 622 and the second clamp end 624 have a clearance with the shoulders 296 in the two coupling profiles 29. This allows for a misalignment between the two connected enclosures 2 such that an angle may be formed between each enclosure's 2 respective central axis 94. This misalignment allows the circumferential seal 284 to establish an even pre-tension along the circumference of the pipe 9 even if the pipe 9 is not perfectly straight and/or the pipe 9 has deformations.
• Each clamp mating surface 64 comprises a clamp mating sealing means 642 that extends
• the clamp mating sealing means 642 is a molded seal positioned in a groove.
• the clamping profile 68 comprises a clamping profile sealing means 682 which intersects with the clamp mating sealing means 642 and the coupling profile sealing means 292, when the clamping profile 68 is connected to the coupling profile 29. Thus, the continuous seal is provided therebetween.
• the clamping profile sealing means 682 is a molded seal positioned in a groove.
• this configuration provides the continuous seal between each coupling profile 29 at the distal ends of the connected enclosures 2 relative to two connected coupling profiles 29. This is due to the mating sealing means 242 extending into the coupling sealing means 292, which is designed to mate with the clamping profile sealing means 682, which intersects the clamp mating sealing means 642.
• the mating sealing means 242 that extends into the coupling profile 29 is wider compared to the clamping profile sealing means 682. This allows the coupling profile 29 to be misaligned while the continuous seal between the mating sealing means 242 and the clamping profile sealing means 682 maintains its integrity. It also allows the two connected coupling profiles 29 to have a small gap between them while maintaining the continuous seal.
• the clamping profile sealing means 682 may be wider compared to the mating sealing means 242 to maintain the continuous seal during misalignment or when the gap is formed.
• both the mating sealing means 242 and the clamping mating sealing means 682 may be excessively wide to allow for the misalignment and the gap.
• Fig. 5 shows one end of the enclosure 2 connected to a sealing enclosure 8.
• the sealing enclosure 8 includes two sealing enclosure portions 82 that in a position of use is coaxial with the enclosures 2.
• Each sealing enclosure portion 82 forms two sealing enclosure mating surfaces 822, as best seen in Fig. 6a.
• the two sealing enclosure portions 82 are designed to be arranged around the central axis 94 and have their respective sealing enclosure mating surfaces 822 mate in a complimentary fit and form a sealing enclosure wall 84 and the coupling profile 29.
• the coupling profile 29 is in a first end 81 of the sealing
• the two sealing enclosure portions 82 form a hole 812 in the first end 81 and in the opposite end of the sealing enclosure 8 for accommodating the pipe 9.
• the sealing enclosure wall 84 encloses a portion of the pipe segment 92.
• the sealing enclosure mating surface 822 comprises a sealing enclosure mating surface sealing means 824 extending between the clamping profile 29 and an end seal 86.
• the sealing enclosure mating surface sealing means 824 extends into the coupling 29 and its coupling sealing means 292, providing the continuous seal between them.
• the two sealing enclosure portions 82 each comprises a section of the end seal 86 positioned in the sealing enclosure wall 84.
• the sections of the end seal 86 are positioned to align when the two sealing enclosure portions 82 are arranged around the central axis 94.
• the end seal 86 is designed to provide a seal between the sealing enclosure wall 84 and the pipe 9, when the sealing enclosure 8 is arranged around the pipe 9.
• the end seal 86 is positioned adjacent to the sealing enclosure mating surface sealing means 824 providing the continuous seal between the coupling sealing means 292 and the end seal 86.
• the coupling profile 29 in the sealing enclosure 8 faces the coupling profile 29 in the enclosure 2.
• the two coupling profiles 29 are connected by the clamp 6. As a result, the continuous seal extends from the end seal 86 to an opposite end of the connected enclosure 2.
• the sealing enclosure 8 comprises an activating means 88 for activating the end seal 86, allowing the pre-tension in the end seal 86 to be controlled and adjusted.
• the activating means 88 comprises two activating means portions 882 that are connected to the two sealing enclosure portions 82 via bolts 884. One end of each of the two activating means portions 882 is adjacent to the end seal 86. An opposite end of the activating means portions 822 comprises a contact surface for the bolts 884.
• the bolts 884 are arranged in parallel with the central axis 94. Screwing the bolts 884 further into or out of the two sealing enclosure portions 82 displaces the activating means portions 882 towards or away from the end seal 86, respectively.
• the activating means 88 is designed to be axially displaceable relative to the two sealing enclosure portions 82 and the end seal 86. Thereby, the pre-tension in the end seal 86 may be adjusted.
• FIG. 6a shows an enclosure system 1 comprising two enclosures 2.
• the enclosures 2 are connected in series by the clamps 6.
• the sealing enclosure 8 comprises the activating means 88.
• the distance between the two sealing enclosures 8 and their respective end seals 86 defines the pipe segment 92 being enclosed by the enclosure system 1.
• the length of a leaking pipe segment is in the illustrated example shorter than the distance of the pipe segment 92 enclosed between the two sealing enclosures 8.
• a leak or a suspected leak is enclosed within the two connected enclosures 2.
• the sealing enclosures 8 are connected in each end of the connected enclosures 2, resulting in adjacently positioned enclosing chambers.
• the enclosing chambers are formed between two circumferential seals 284, or between one circumferential seal 284 and one end seal 86. Therefore, one enclosing chamber encloses the leak, and one enclosing chamber is formed on each side of the leaking pipe segment. This enhances the pressure capabilities of the enclosure system and provides a double barrier for a leak to occur.
• the role of the circumferential seal 284 is to seal a differential pressure between two adjacently formed enclosing chambers, rather than the differential pressure between the pipe pressure and the surrounding environment. Consequently, the pressure within the enclosure system 1 may decrease in a stepdown manner between each enclosing chamber by the value of the differential pressure rating of the circumferential seal 284.
• the pressure rating of the enclosure system 1 is enhanced due to the presence of adjacently positioned enclosing chambers on either side of the leaking pipe segment.
• one or more enclosures 2 may be connected on each side or the leaking pipe segment.
• the pressure rating of the enclosure system 1 is increased by twice the differential pressure rating of the circumferential seal
• each sealing enclosure 8 is activated to exceed the pressure rating of the mating surface sealing means 242, the coupling sealing means 292, the clamp mating sealing means 642, the clamping profile sealing means 682, and the sealing enclosure mating sealing means 824.
• the enclosure system 1 encloses a leak reliably.
• Fig 6b shows the enclosure system 1 shown in Fig. 6a in an exploded view.
• Fig. 7 shows a method 700 for attaching the enclosure system 1 to the pipe 9.
• the method 700 comprises a step 702, which comprises providing the enclosure system 1.
• a step 704 the pressure between inside the pipe 9 and the surrounding environment is equalized.
• the step 704 may be an optional step depending on safety considerations for each specific enclosure operation.
• a step 706 comprises connecting the enclosure system 1 to the pipe 9 to enclose the leak or the area where a leak is anticipated to occur in the future.
• a step 708 the pressure inside the pipe 9 is increased to a working pressure, and the enclosure system 1 is inspected for leaks.
• the step 708 is an optional step and depends on if the pipe pressure were decreased in the step 704.
• a step 710 is initiated.
• the step 710 comprises adding an additional enclosure 2 at least at the end where the leak has been detected.
• the additional enclosure 2 may be added during the installation of the enclosure system 1 to the pipe 9. Alternatively, or additionally, the additional enclosure 2 may be added at a subsequent time.
• a step 712 comprises connecting the sealing enclosure 8 at each end of the enclosure system 1.
• a step 714 comprises activating the end seal 86 in each sealing enclosure 8.

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Citations (6)

• 2024
  • 2024-05-30 NO NO20240550A patent/NO349207B1/en unknown
• 2025
  • 2025-05-16 WO PCT/NO2025/050089 patent/WO2025250019A1/en active Pending

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