US1951034A - Adjustable repair clamp for bell and spigot joints - Google Patents

Description

Marh 13, 1934. l c; E NORTQN 1,951,034

ADJUSTABLE lREPAIR CLAMP FOR BELL AND SFIGOT JOINTS Filed Feb. 24, 1932 4 Sheets-Sheet l m 1 L( .30 7//3 ,f

y 24 z5 ,f y

j l l 5 f6 .9 l l j# WN I-:NTOR

ATTO RNEY March 13, 1934. l Q E, NORTQN `1,951,034

ADJUSTABLE REPAIR CLAMP FOR BELL AND SPIGOY'l1 JOINTS Filed Feb. 24, 1952 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 EN OR 4 .i

ATTORNEY March 39 QE. C, E NOTON 1,951,034

ADJUSTABLE REPAIR CLAMP FOR BELL AND SPIGOT JOINTS Filed Feb. 24. 1932 4 Sheets-Sheet 3 NvENToR lk\uJ @wir ATTORNEY March 13, 41934. Q NQRTQN 1,951,034

ADJUSTABLE REPAIR CLAMP FOR BELL AND SPIGOT JOINTS Filed Feb. 24, 1932 4 sheds-sheet 4 ATTORNEY Patented Mar. 13, 1934 ADJUSTABLE REPAIR CLAMP Foa BELL ANn srIGo'r JoIN'rs Charles E. Norton, Bradford,fPa., assigner to S. R. Dresser Manufacturing Company, Bradford, Pa., a corporation of Pennsylvania Application February 24, 1932, serial No. 594,815

ivciaims. (ci. 285-119) My invention consists in the novel features hereinafter described,`reference being had to the accompanying drawings which show `several embodiments of the invention selected by me for purposes of illustration, and said invention is fully disclosed in the following description and claims.

My invention is a novel repair clamp or leak clamp for bell and spigot joints in pipe lines, and adjustable radially to accommodate Variations in 1I) the external diameters -of the pipes with which they are to be used. These clamps are used in large numbers for the repair of bell and spigot pipe lines laidmany years ago when little or no attempt had been made to standardize the diaml5 eters of such pipes, and when-very wide variations or tolerances were permitted. Even with modern bell and spigot pipe which is held to fairly close tolerances, it is made in diierent classes, frequently involving different thicknesses of pipe wall for the same standard internal diamter, and, especially in the larger sizes, the range of variation of the outside diameters of the various classes' of pipe of thesame nominal diameter, is very great. Thus, for example; in the nornuts for connecting`tl`ie clamping ring and bull ring, and forcing `the packing into gas tight en-v gagement with the bell and spigot. `For emcient results, it is necessary that the inner edge of the clamping ring should vcome Vas close as possible to the exterior of the spigot to prevent cold i'lowf: ing of the packing, usually rubber or rubber composition, therebetween. Furthermore, as the cirrior of the bell, the strain of the bolts is applied at a considerable radial distance from the circle of'resistancei. e., the packing, resulting in a tendency of the clamping ring to roll or tlex in a direction to turn inside out, which prevents upon the packing. t According to my invention I form the clamping ring of a comparatively large number of independently movable segmentsof comparatively-v mal sixteen inch size, it is found desirable to pro- "which results in dividing up the variation in pipe cle of the clamping bolts must clear the exte the full application of the 'boltstrain or load f short length, each receiving usually a single bolt connected therewith at a point removed outwardly from the packing recess (although in some cases it may receive two or more), these segments being held in circular arrangement around the pipe by non-elastic confining or tension element. engaging portions of the segment at a distance from the face of the ring containing the packing recess, and positively preventing outward .radial movement of thesegments at such points in a G5 direction substantially perpendicular'. to the bolts. The recessed portions of the segments, however, can-move radially inwardly under the strain of the bolts to bring them into the desired close relation with the spigot, and accommodate a very wid range in the variation thereof, while the resultant of the bolt strain on the ring segments will be applied in an inclined direction,` toward the packing ring, and will be greater than either the force exerted directly by the bolts, or the resistance directly sustained by the tension means.

In effect, each segment becomes a lever having a radial turning movement on a point adjacent to its engagement with the tension element to render the diameterof Vthe ring adjustable and to apply l the bolt strain to the packing in the most emcient manner. The tension element may consist of bands extending around the entire series of seg- .ments, or of links connecting the segments, or of v a sectional ring connected with thev segments, and

may be separable from or permanently connected with all or some of the clamping ring segments. Where it is connected with all of the segments, provision is made for separating portions of the tension element at one or more points to facili- `tate placing the ringsections around the pipe. 17j;

The tension element may also in some instances be adjustable as to length, if desired.Y y The largenumber of ring sections causes them l,V

to morevperfectly nt the contour oi `the pipe,"

diameter,- .accommodated by the ring, so that the' separation or gap between the ends of adjacent segments will ordinarily be small. Iffdesired.4

these points of separation may be bridged over, 1001` of suilicient width to -necessitate it, in order z to prevent cold llowing of the .packingftherethrough. This may be accomplished by means of bridge plates which may be entirely separate from clamping'ring, or secured thereto. i

The 'joint between the clamping ring sections and the tension member is more or less non-rigid -and facilitates change in the direction of theV resultant of force, .when the bolts are tightened. to apply such resultant 4force most Velectively to .11

the. gasket and the location of these joints in a plane removed from the plane of the packing recess and gasket longitudinally with respect to the axis of the ring increases the length of the turning movement of each section.

The specific construction of the clamping ring segments with special reference to the engagement therewith of the tension element, and also with respect to the form of ,the packing recess, together with the cross section of the packing, may be varied in many ways, a number of which are shown in the various embodiments of the invention hereinafter described.

The bull ring is also made adjustable to accommodate the wide variations in the bells, and to this end I prefer to form it in sections with overlapping portions having a plurality of opposed toothed surfaces, held together by the through bolts, or by separate short or section bolts, and providing an adjustment equal to one or more teeth at each joint between the sections of the bull ring which provides a wide range of adjustment.

My invention also comprises certain novel features of construction and combination of parts hereinafter fully described and particularly pointed out in the claims.

Referring to the accompanying drawings, which show several embodiments of my invention, selected by me for purposes of illustration,

Fig. 1 is a sectional view of an adjustable repair clamp embodying my invention, applied to a bell and spigot joint, the parts of which are shown partly in section and partly in elevation.

Fig. 2 is an elevation of a portion of the clamp illustrated .in Fig. 1, broken away and showing three completeclamping ring segments. j

Fig. 3 is a detail sectional view of the connector for the ends of the tension member shown in Fig. l.

Fig. 4 is a detail section on line 4-4 of Fig. 3.

Fig. 5 is an elevation of a. portion of the bull ring shown in Fig. l, broken away.

. Fig. 6 is a detail section on line 6 6 of Fig. 5.

Fig. 7 is a detail section of clamping ring segments showing a slight modification.

Fig. 8 is a similar view showing another slight modification.

Fig. 9 is a detail perspective view of one form of bridge piece, detached.

Fig. 10 is a detail perspective view of a portion of the packing showing a. -bridge piece molded therein.

Fig. 16 is a sectional view of the clamp shown in Fig. 15 on line 16--16 thereof.

Fig. 17 is a detail view of one of the links shown in Figs. 15 and 16.

Fig. 18 is a view similar to Fig. 2, showing a clamp comprising a further modified form of clamping ring segments, and tension element and bridge piece.

Fig. 19 is a section on line 19-19 of Fig. 18.

Fig. 20 is a detail view of one of the clamping ring segments shown in Figs. 18 and 19.

, Fig. 21 is a detail section through the meeting ends of two sections of the tension element shown in Figs. 18 and 19, on line 21--21 of Fig. 18.

Fig. 22 is a detail view illustrating a slight modification in the construction of the tension element shown in Figs. 18, 19 and 20.

Fig. 23 is a detail perspective view of a modified form of bridge piece.

Fig. 24 is a view similar to Fig. 2, showing another modii'ied form of clamp, in which a portion of the tension member comprises separate links and other portions thereoffcomprise portions of the clamping ring segments.

Fig. 25 is a view similar to Fig. 2, showing another modifled form of clamp.

Fig. 26 is a section on line 26-26 of Fig 25,.

Fig. 27 is a section similar to Fig. 26, showing another modified form of Iclamping ring.

Fig. `28 is a horizontal section on line 28-28 of Fig. 27.

Referring to the embodiment of my invention illustrated in Figs. 1 to 6 inclusive, I have shown in Fig. l, a bell and spigot joint, having the repair clamp applied thereto, 1, representing the spigot end of a bell and spigot pipe section, 2, the bell, 3-4 any usual or preferred packing interposed between the spigot and bell when the pipe line is laid, and comprising the usual fibrous material, 3, and solid material, as lead or cement, 4. C represents the adjustable clamping ring as a whole, which is composed of a plurality of short independently movable segments connected only by a tension member, three of such segments being illustrated in Fig. 2, adapted to substantially encircle the spigot member, l, and to provide a substantially continuous packing recess, to engage a circular packing ring, 5, preferably formed of rubber or rubber composition. Each segment of the ring, C, is provided with a plate member, 6, inclined outwardly from a plane perpendicular with the axis of the ring, and provided adjacent to its inner edge with a recess, 7, vforming part of the packing recess of the ring and formed in this instance by a wall, 8, substantially perpendicular to the axis of the ring, and an inclined wall, 9, extending outwardly therefrom and toward the face of the ring. Each segment of the ring may be provided with bolt connecting means located at a distance outwardly from the packing engaging portion, usually in the form of one or more bolt receiving holes, and in this instance I have shown the plate member, 6, provided centrally of the length of the segment with an outwardly extending portion, 10, having a bolt hole, 11, therein, increasing slightly in diameter from the inner face of the plate member, reinforced by a circular web, 12, in the usual manner. The segment is also provided with a curved reinforcing fiange, 13, approximately parallel with the axis of the ring and extending rearwardly from the` rear face of the perpendicular wall, 8, for a considerable distance. The segment is also provided preferably midway of its length, and in line with the bolt hole, with a radially disposed lweb, 14, which is conveniently formed integral with the reinforcing flanges, 13 and l2, and is of course an integral part of the plate member. This web, 14, forms in effect a lever arm projecting centrally from the rear face of the segment in a direction almost at right angles with the plate member, 6, and the outer end of this web, 14, of each segment engages at a point located at a distance longitudinally with respect to the axis of the ring from the packing recess a non-elastic tension member, 15, which extends entirely around the ring and holds the outer ends of the webs, 14, of all the segments against outward i movement, and forms the only .means for connecting the segments when in operative assembled relation. In Figs. 1 to 6, the tension member is shown in the form of a' metal band, and preferably composed 'of two thicknesses of metal,

15, 15', as shown in the drawings for convenience of assembling, as the two thin bands will be more ilexible than a single thickl band, and this is advantageous in placing the ring around the spigot member of the pipe coupling. These bands may be made of rustless steel or other suitable metal not subject to oxidation-or corrosion. The tension member is preferably given a polygonal rather than a circular form, especially when it is in the form of aband, and it may, if desired,

and preferaby is, permanently secured to each of the segments, so as to hold them in assembled relation, provision being made for opening the lring at one or more points temporarilyto permit it to be placed around the pipe. In this instance the bands are shown as welded to the ribs, 14, of the several segments, as indicated at 16. For the purpose of detachably connecting the end portions of the tension member, in this instance the bands, l5, 15', have their end portions bent 30 in opposite directions, as indicated at 17, 17, and,

0 ments and the tension band can be opened up far enough to permit the clamping ring to be placed around pipe section, l, when the ends of the band are again united by the clip. The packing ring, 5, is usually molded as a ring and is severed at one point, usually by a diagonal cut, so that it can be placed around the pipe within the packing-recess of the clamping ring, and the meeting ends lapped. Variations in the size of the pipe will require, in most instances, the cut- 0 ting off of a larger or smaller portion from one end of the severed packing ring in order that the ends may meet perfectly around the particular pipe. "The packing ring and clamping ring are then rolled along the pipe into engagement with 5 the face of the bell, in the manner shown in Fig.

l, and coupling bolts, 24 are passed through bolt holes in 'a bull ring, indicated at B in Fig. 1, and hereinafter described, and through the several bolt holes. 11, of the ring segments, and are provided with nuts, 25, which are thereupon screwed up.'

` It will be noted` by reference to Fig. 1, that as the bolts are tightened, the plate member, 6, of each segment will be drawn in a direction .toward the bull ring, and also caused to swing inwardly in the direction of the pipe, 1, since the outer ends of the lever like webs, 14, are pre- ,vented from outward movement by the tension member, 15, 15. vIn other words, by reason ci the angular relation between the plate member of each segment and the outwardly extending lever portion or web, 14, held rigidly against outward movement by the tension member, each segment has a theoretical axis adjacent to the tension member, and which may be indicated for purposes of description by the point, X, in Fig. 1, the iiexing of the retaining member in this instance permitting this turning movement. This construction, therefore, provides in the first place, avery wide range of adjustment of the diameter of that portion of the packing ring containing the packing recess.

It will also be noted by reference to Fig. 1, that the load or strain of the bolts, 24, is exerted in'a direction parallel to the axis of the ring and substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the strain of the tension member is exerted to resist the outward movement of the engaged portions of the segment, to wit, the ribs, 14, from which it follows that a. resultant force greater than leither is exerted by the walls of the packing recess of the ring upon the packing ring in any inclined direction, indicated by the dotted line, Y, in Fig. l, and tending to forcev the packing directly into the angle formed by the outer face of the pipe member, 1, and the perpendicular face of the bell, 2, and solid packing, 4. The increase in diameter in the bolt holes, y11, will accommodate the slight changes in position between the plate member of each segment and the connected bolt, 24, as the bolts are tightened. It will also be noted that each bolt exerts its load or strain independently upon one only of the segments and therefore each segment is free to move inwardly independentlyvof the others, thus enabling the ring to fit itself and the packing ring around the pipe and accommodate any differences in the radii of different portions of its exterior surface engaged by the packing.

It will be understood that the segments are made of such length that the desired range of adjustment may be obtained without at any time bringing the ends of the adjacent segments into direct contact. There will, therefore, always bel a gap or space .between the adjacent ends oi adjacent segments and these spaces will be greater when the ring is applied to a pipe having a larger exterior diameter thanthey will be when the ring is applied to a pipe of smaller exterior diameter within th range for which the ring is intended. When the ring is applied to a pipe of such external diameter that these spaces are otvery small extent, as an eighth of an inch or less, for example, these spaces do not in any way interfere with the proper operation of the clamp in compressing Athe rubber ring, 5, to effect a gas tight joint, but where the ring is used with a pipe of such external diameter that the gaps or spaces between the segments might otherwise permit a certain amount of cold flowing of the rubber packing, I provide bridging meansfor engaging the inner faces of the segments within the packing recess to bridge over these gaps. These' bridge pieces are preferably in the form of shortl pieces of sheet metal, one of which` is indicated in detail in Fig. 9, the bridge piece being indicated as a whole at 26, and shown provided with angularly disposed flanges, 27--28, preferably shaped to conform to the contiguous faces of the packing recess and rubber ring. While it is not necessary, the adjacent faces of the segments may be recessed adjacent to each end to accommodate the thickness of the bridge piece and eachbridge piece may be secured at one end to one of the segments in position to overlap the adjacent segment, either'by spot welding or riveting, or otherwise, if this seems to be desirable, and as is perfectly obvious. In some instances these position, to see that the bridge pieces were in Ves proper relation to the gaps between the segments of the ring, which could be readily determined by placing any one of the bridge pieces with its longitudinal center in line with the cen-v ter of one of the gaps or spaces.

By constructing the clamping ring in the manner previously described, it may be made to operatively conform to pipe sections having a Wide range of divergence in their external diameters. even as great as three quarters of an inch or more in the larger sizes. These repair clamps are used for the repair of leaky bell and spigot' joints occurring in pipe lines which may frequently have been laid many years ago, and where the actual outside diameter of the pipe and bell is frequently unknown until the leaking joint is uncovered, my repair clamp will adapt itself to all ordinary or possible variations in the outside diameter of the pipes for any nominal size and facilitates the repair,- and at the same time saves the expense of making the rings in split sizes, avoids delay in keeping the excavation open, which may frequently be in the midst of a busy street, and prevents the waste of a valuable product as gas or oil, and possibly injury to adjoiningproperty.

In connection with the adjustable clamping ring having such a wide range of adjustment, it isdesirable, and in many cases necessary that the bull ring shall also be adjustable in order .to accommodate variations in the size of the bell, although the bull ring does not have to t the bell as accurately as the clamping ring does. It is extremely important that the inner edge ofthe -iiange, 8, of each clamping ring segment shall come as close as possible to the outer face of the .spigot portion of the pipe section without touching it in order to prevent cold flowing of the rubber or pinching of the rubber at this point. This of course is not involved in connection with the bull ring. I have, however, shown in Fig. 1, and in detail in Figs. 5 and 6, a bull ring which is likewise adjustable to meet the conditions previously described. The bull ring, B, is also composed of a plurality of segments as shown best in Figs. 5 and 6, although it is not necessary that there be the same number of segments in the bull ring that there are in the clamping ring. As.

shown in Figs. 5 and 6, the bull ring is composed of a number o segments, 30, "each of which is provided at its inner edge with inwardly projecting lugs or flanges, 31, to engage the exterior of the bell, as shown in Fig. 1. The bull ring segments are preferably formed of cast metal and provided with reinforcing flanges, indicated at32, for securing the desired strength without undue weight. Each segment is provided also with the requisite number of Abolt holes to substantially register with the bolt`holes inthe clamping ring with which the bull ring is to he used, and each segment is provided with end portions, 33-34, which are of less thickness than the other portions of the ring and which overthis instance indicated at 36, to accommodate variations in the diameter of the ring. In order vto rmly lock the overlapping end portions of the bull ring segments together when in operative position, and at vthe same time provide for the adjustment of the diameter of the ring, the adjacent faces of said overlapping portions, 33-34, of adjacent sections are serrated, preferably by providing them with interengagingteeth, indicated at 38`in Fig. 6. Any desired number of these' teeth lmay be provided according to the desired range of adjustment.- It will be understood that this construction provides for the enlargement of the ring, one tooth or more at each of the joints between the bull ring segments, and assuming that the ring comprises four segments, and that each segment may be adjusted to the extent of two or more teeth, it will be seen that a very wide range of adjustment is provided, the width of a single tooth at one of such joints only of the ring to the maximum number of teeth permitted at all of the joints. In the form of bull ring illustrated in Figs. 1, 5 and 6, the serrated or toothed overlapping ends of the bull ring segments are drawn into rigid engagement with each other by the through bolts, 24, which in this instance pass through the bult holes, 36, 37, of the engaged parts, as clearly shown in Figs. 5 and 6. It is obvious, however, that it is not necessary that the through bolts should pass through the overlapping portions of the segments, and that in' such case they can be held together in a ally te med section bolts, and nuts, in a manner simila to that illustrated in Fig. 21, in which the overlapping portions of a different ring are so connected.

In Fig. 7 I have illustrated a slight modification of the clamping ring segment shown in Figs. 1 and 2, in which the portion of the segment which engages the tension member, here designated as a whole atv 15a, is recessed to receive the tension member. AIrl this gure the radial lever web, 14a, is provided with a recess, 39, to lreceive the tension member, which is secured therein by welding, indicated at 16a. The construction is otherwise exactly as hereinbefore described.

In Fig. 8 I have illustrated a slightly different means for connecting the segments of the clamping .ring with the tension member. vIn this instance, the segment, which is formed of malleable cast iron, has its radial lever web, indicated at 14h, provided with an open slot, indicatedat 40, to receive the tension member, which in this instance is a single band, indicated at 15b, and the web, 14h, is providedywith a suitable projection, 41, which may be bent downward over the outer edge of the bend to confine it in engagement with the slot, 40. The constructions illustrated in Figs.v 7 and 8 are merely illustrative of different ways in which the segments maybe permanently united with the tension member. 4

It will be understood that in forming av clamp# ing ring comprising segments and tension member, in accordance with my invention, the form cross sectionof the packing ring co-operating therewith. As the' segments are otherwise constructed exactly as prevously described, the parts, r

In Fig. 11, for example, which shows theiclamp i before it is drawn up by the bolts, the packing recess is formed by the ilanges, 8c and 9c, which diier slightly in relative width from those shown in Fig. 1, for example, the outer face of the packing ring, 5c, being of greater width than the face, 8c, of the recess and the inclined ace ofthe rubber packing, which engages the antween the pipe and the face of the bell, and as the rubber becomes `distorted. it gradually assumes the configuration of the recess.

In Fig. 12 the packing engaging portion of each segment is formed by flanges, 8d and 9d, which meet substantially perpendicularly. In this case the packing ring, 5d, is rectangular in cross section, and in this construction the bridge pieces, instead of being made in one piece will consist of separate plates, 27d and 28d, and the plate, which may be a continuous annular band, 27d, must obviously be made sufficiently narrow so that its inner edge will not engage the wall, 28d, of the recess when the clamping ring is drawn up. f

In some instances the packing recess of the clamping ring may be segmental instead of angular in cross section. Thus in Fig. 13 I have shown the recess as having a concave wall, indicated at 8e, and the outer face of the packing ring, 5e, correspondingly formed. Where this concave form is used, I iind it desirable to provide the wall, 8e, about centrally thereof, with an inwardly extending rib or projection, indicated at 8e in this igure, which cornes first into contact with the convex outer surface of the packing ring, and forces the latter into lirm engagement with the pipe and bell face, and is thereafter forced into the convex surface of the packing, and interlocked therewith. This projection or rib may, however, be omitted. Obviously the bridge pieces used with this form of segment, one of which is indicated at 26e, will conform to the inner face of the packing recess, as shown.

Fig. 14 illustrates a further modification, in which the packing engaging portion of each segment, instead of being a recess, is a convex wall, indicated at 8f. In this case the packing ring,

which is indicated at 5f, will have :an exteriorV concave face substantially conforming to the convex face 8f, and the bridge pieces where used will be of the concave-convex form, shown at 2.6i.

It will be understood that where either the concave or convex packing engaging portions are provided on the ring segments, they will have a curvature substantially coaxial with a point in the line of the resultant of force, indicated by the dotted lines, Y and Y2, in Figs. 13 and 14.

In Figs. 15, 16 and 17,1 have illustrated a modified form of clamping ring in which each of the segments is provided at a distance from the plane of its packing engaging portion, with a stud or projection, the studs or projections of the several segments being connected by links, and thereby forming the tension member of the ring. In Fig. 15, B', represents the bull ring, which may be constructed as hereinbefore described, and C represents the clamping ring, the parts of which.

are given the same reference numerals as in Figs. 1 and 2, with the addition of 100. The clamping ring, C', is formed of a plurality of segments, each of which comprises the plate member, 106, provided with the packing engaging portions, which in this instance are formed by the inclined walls, 108 and 109, the plate member being provided with an outwardly extending portion, 110, having a bolt hole, 111, therein, as previously described. The outer face of each segment is provided with a horizontally disposed stud, 114, which is conveniently formed in line 'with the bolt hole, 111, and at the junction of radial and lateral reinforcing flanges, 113. The outer end ci the stud, 114, is located at a considerable distance from the plane of the plate member, 106, and is preferably of cylindrical form, as shown, and provided at its outer end with malleable projections,4 114e. The clamping ring is completed by links, 115,*preferably formed of malleable cast iron, like the clamping ring segments, one of which links is illustrated in detail in Fig. 17. Each link is preferably bifurcated at one end to provide the parallel arms, 115a, having apertures, 115i), therein, to t over one of the studs, 114, the other end of the link being provided with an aperture, 115e. The thin end of each link is inserted between the bifurcated portions of the adjacent link, slipped over one of the projections, 114, and secured in position thereon, by bending outwardly the pro- Y jections, 114e, as clearly shown in Fig. 15. In

this manner the studs, 114, of all the segments constituting the ring may be readily connected by the links, 115, these links and the engaged portions of the studs, 114, constituting the ten sion member of the ring. In practice, the segments and links will be assembled and permanently connected with the exception of a single stud, so that the ring can be placed around the pipe and the last link connection made after the ring is in position.

The-operation of the clamping ring in compressing the packing making a tight joint, will be exactly the saine as that previously described, the engagement ot the links, 115, with the studs, 114, preventing the outward movement of the studs, 114, when the bolts are tightened, permitting the segments to rock inwardly into proper relation with the spigot member of the joint and compensate for variations in the diameter thereof. It will be understood that the apertures, 1151) and 115e, in the links are suiliciently larger than the studs, 114, to form a loose joint and permit the turning movement of each of the segments with respect to the tension member, as previously described. The force of the bolts applied to the packing will be the resultant of the bolt strain exerted 'in a line parallel to the axis of the ring, and the retaining force of the tension member exertedin a plane perpendicular thereto, the force being applied in the general direction indicated by the dotted line at YB. The turning moment of the ring segments will in this instance be about a theoretical axis located in each of the studs, 114, and indicated for example approximately at X' in Fig. 16. It will be noted that in this instance the tension member which alone connects the segments of the clamping ring is comprised in part of portions of the segments that is the studs, and in part by extraneous elements, that is the separate links, 115, the tension member constituting a circular member extending entirely around the ring and around the spigot member ofthe joint as in the previously described embodiment of my invention.

In Figs. 18 to 21 inclusive, I have illustrated another modification of my invention, in which the tension member comprises a ring separate from the sections of the clamping ring and preferably formed in segments, adjustably connected together so that the tension member itself can be adjusted if desired, and this embodiment of my invention is found particularly desirable in segments for pipes of very large diameters. In these figures the parts corresponding with those previously described with respect to Figs. 1 and\2, are given the same reference numerals with the addition of 200.

In Figs. 18 and 19, B2, represents the bull ring, which may be of the same construction as that previously illustrated and described, and C2, represents the clamping ring, comprising a plurality of segments vformed preferably of malleable cast iron, each of which comprises a plate member, 206, in this instance provided with two outwardly projecting portions, 210, each provided with a bolt hole, 211, so that each segment is acted upon by two bolts, 224, instead of a single bolt, as in the forms previously described. One advantage of using more than one bolt in connection with a segment of the clamping ring is that where a single bolt is employed, there is a slight tendency for the segment to twist, as the nut is screwed up, tending to move one end of the segment inwardly and the other outwardly. This tendency is entirely neutralized where two bolts are connected to each segment. The plate member is providedl with the packing engaging portion, in this instance a recess provided by the walls, 208-209, and the outer face of the segment is strengthened by the radial webs, 214, in line with each bolt hole, and by laterally extending webs, 213, which Webs practically converge at two points in a radial line with the respective bolt holes to form bearing shoulders, 214a, beyond which project studs, 214b, provided at their outer ends with the malleable projections, 214e.

The tension element in this instance comprises a ring, 215, also preferably formed of cast or malleable cast ironfand constructed in sections, although it is not necessary that there should be as many sections in the tension element as there are in the clamping ring. I prefer to construct the tension ring, 215, with half the number of segments that are used in the clampingring itself, so that each segment of the ring, 215, engages the shoulders, 214 a, of two clamping ring segments. 'Ihe ring, 215. comprises a at section provided with a plurality of apertures, 215a, in this instance four in number for each section of the ring, 215, and each section of the ring, 215, is provided adjacent to each of the apertures, 215a, with a horizontally disposed ange, 215b, to engage the shoulder, 214a, of the adjacent section. The studs, 21412, of the segments extend through apertures, 215a, of the ring, 215, and the projections, 21411, thereof are bent outwardly to permanently connect the clamping ring segments with the section` of ring, 215, as shown in Fig. 19. Each section ofthe tension ring, 215, is also provided adjacent to each bolt hole with perpendicular webs, indicated at 215e, on opposite sides of the apertures, 215m, to strengthen the tension element at these points, and the apertures, 215a, increase in diameter from the `inner face of the tension ring segment outwardly to allow freedom of movement to accommodate the turning movement of the clamping ring segments. The tension ring sections are provided with overlapping portions. 215d, as

shown in Fig. 21, which preferably have their meeting faces provided with teeth, as indicated at 215e, and said overlapping portions are provided with elongated slots, indicated at 215f, to accommodate a short section bolt, 215g, provided with a nut, 21517,. This connection is similar to the connection between the ends of the bull ring sections previously described, and permits an adjustment of from one to any desired number of teeth at each joint between the sections of the ring, 215, which joints occur at proper intervals between the radial positions occupied by the through bolts, 224, as clearly indicated in Fig. 18.

By reference to Fig. 19, it will be seen that when the parts of the clamping ring just described are assembled around a spigot member, 201, in conjunction with the packing ring, 205, and bull ring, B2, and the bolts are tightened, the turning moment of the segments will cause the shoulders, 214a, to bear outwardly against the inner faces of the flanges, 21517, of the tension ring, 215, which of course prevents any movement in this direction. The engagement of the shoulder, 2141i, and flange, 215b, forms a sort of knuckle and the engaged surfaces of these parts are conveniently rounded to facilitate the turning movement of the segments, which will occur about a theoretical axis indicated at X2.

In Fig. 22 I have illustrated a slight modification of these parts drawn to an enlargedscale, in which the parts corresponding with those just described are given the same reference characters with the addition of 100. In this instance the stud, indicated at 31419, is provided with the malleable projections, 314e, disposed laterally with respect to each other, so that they may be bent outwardly and laterally into contact with a U-shaped boss, 315x, on the outer face of the tension ring, 315, the exterior edges of this boss being curved substantially concentrically. with the theoretical axis of the turning moment of the clamping ring segments indicated at X3, in Fig. 22. The object of this construction is to insure the freedom of this turning moment and the necessary relative movement between the tension ring, 315 and the shoulders, 314a, of the clamping ring segments at all times even if the malleable projections, 314e, should be bent over into very firm engagement with the outer face of the tension ring, which in this instance would be the curved outer faces of the bosses, 315x.

It will be understood that where the separation between the ends of the clamping ring segments is sumcient to require it, bridge pieces will be inserted as previously described in Fig. 19. I have shown a modified form of bridge piece, which is illustrated in detail in Fig. 23, and which is so constructed that it will maintain itself in position with respect to the clamping ring segments. This bridge piece, indicated as a whole at 226, is provided with the integral flanges, 227 and 228, and is made preferably of sheet metal as previously described, and preferably of spring material. The flange, 227, is extended over a considerable distance and bent over upon itself as shown in Figs. 19 and 23, to provide a spring clamping portion, 229, which can bev made to engage-the outer face of the flange, 209, of a clamping ring segment, adjacent to the end of the segment, where the plate member is of reduced width, thus holding the bridge piece Within the packing recess of the clamping ring in a position to extend over the gap or space between the adjacent ends of the segments thereof, and facilitating the assembly of the repair clamp around the joint to to Fig. 19, that when the bolts, 224, connecting the clamping ring segments with the bull ring are tightened, the portions of the clamping ring segments, containing the packing recess will be forced inwardly to compress the packing ring, 205, and will compensate for any variations in the exterior diameter of the spigot member, 201. If such variation is suiiiciently great to require it, the tension ring, 215, can be adjusted to increase or decrease the diameter of the tension ring or member, but it will be ui'iderstood that in all the positions to which the tension ring may be adjusted, this ring is non-expansible and .its engagement with the shoulders, 214e, of the clamping ring segments prevents any outward movement thereof.

In Fig. 24 I have illustrated another modified form of the clamping ring, in which the tension element is constituted in part by portions oi' the clamping ring segments, and in part by extraneous links, operatively connected therewith, so as to entirely encircle the pipe. The parts illustrated in this figure which correspond with those in Figs. 1 and 2 are given the same reference characters with the addition of 400. In this embodiment, the plate member, l3:06, of each segment is provided with two outwardly projecting portions, 410, provided with the bolt holes, 411, so that two bolts are directly connected with each segment, although this is not essential. On its 'outer face each segment'is provided with radial reinforcing webs, 414, invline with the bolt holes, which webs are connected in` this instance by a lateral reinforcing web, 41511, which forms a part oit the tension element of the clamping ring. At the intersection of the flanges, 414 and 4:15a, of each segment is provided a linlr securing means, which in this instance is in the form of a socket recess, 415i), to receive an enlarged head, 415e, on a connecting link, l5:15, which extends from the socket recess, 4155, adjacent to one end of each segment to the corresponding recess in the adjacent segment, as clearly illustrated in Fig. 24.

In assembling the parts of the clamping ring shown in this figure, they may be connected by the links, 415. which not only connect the segments, but also form with the webs, 415D, a circular tension member extending entirely around the ring and surrounding the pipe, and holding the clamping ring segments at points remote from the plane of the packing recess of the ring from outward movement, in the manner hereinbefore described.

In the embodiments of my invention hereinbefore described, the tension` element is shown connected )with the clamping ring segments at pointa within the bolt circle, the parts of each segment acted upon by the bolts and by the tension memberrespectively being disposed angular- `ly with respect to each other and with the packving recess, and exerting the compressing action on the packing in an angular 4line between said points of engagement with the bolts and the tension member. In Figs. and 26 I have shown a modified form of the clampng ring in which the tension member is connected with the clamping ring segments at points exterior to the bolt circle bringing the axis of 'the turning moment oi each segment in close alignment with the axis of the bolt connected therewith and applying the bolt pressure in a direct line through the clamping ring, substantially coincident with the resultant of force. In this embodiment in which the clamping ring as a Whole is indicated at .C5y

be repaired. It will be clearly seen by referenceI the parts corresponding with those shown in Figs. 1 and 2, are given the same reference numerals with the addition of 500. Each segment in this instance is provided with a plate member, 506, having an outwardly extending portion, 510, provided with bolt hole, 511, and also provided on the outer side 0f the bolt hole with a tension shoulder, 514e, from which projects a securing stud, ia-lflb, provided with malleable projections, 514e. ".llhe packing recess. is in this instance of a concave .form and constituted by the anges, 509 and 508, andthe segment suitably/'reinforced in this instance by radial web, 514, `which extends trom the flange, 508, to an annular flange, 512,

surrounding the bolt hole, 511. The packing ring, 505, is provided with convex outer face, and 526 represents a suitable bridge piece which may be used if necessary. sionmember, indicated at 515, is shown as a band which may be of stainless steel or other suitable metal, and is provided wlthapertures fitting over the studs, 514e, and secured thereto by bending over the projections, 55.40. This tension element engages the shoulders, 51de, of each clamping ring segment and has its ends connected by a clip, 516, similar to the clip illustrated in Figs. 3 and 4, or the ends may be connected in any other desired manner.

When the clamping ring just described is assembled around a bell and spigot joint in connection with a bull ring, B5, in the manner indicated in Fig. 26, and the bolts are tightened it will be obvious that the clamping ring segments will have a turning moment on a theoretical axis indicated approximately at X5, of the bolt circle. enabling the segments to swing inwardly and compensate for variations in the external diameter of the spigot member, 501, while the force of the bolt load will be transmitted as a resultant of forces approximately along the dottedv line. indicated at Y5, which very nearly coincides with. the plane of the plate member. 506. so that the resultant of force will be transmitted to the packing ring in a very direct manner through the clamping ring segments and with comparatively little change in the position of the clamping ring segments with respect tothe bolts.

In Figs. 27 and 28 I have illustrated another modication of my invention, in which the axis of the turning moment of each clamping ring segment intersects the axis of the through bolt connected. therewith. The parts of the construction illustrated in these two figures which correspond with those shown in Figs. 1 and 2 are given the same reference numerals with the. addition of 600. In these rlgures, the claninine.r ring comprises a plurality of ring segments each having this instance the ten-` a plate member, 606, provided with flanges,

608-609, the inner faces of which form the packing recess, in this instance of concave form in cross section to engage the convex face of a packing ring, 605. The central portions of the plate member. 606, are extended outwardly and provided with a pair of rounded shoulders or bearing portions, 61411, the portions ofthe plate member between which are cut away as indicated at 6141), to permit the passage of the bolt, 624,therethrough. The tension element is in this instance.

The parts are shown assembled in conjunction so that the line, Y6, indicating a resultant of forces acting on the packing will be exerted substantially in line with theplate member, 606,

of each clamping ring segment. At the same time the portions of the ring segments containing the packing recess are adjustable to accommodate variations in the diameter of the spigot member, 6 01, with winch the ring may be used with very slight changes in the angular relation between lghfle clamping ring segments and the through o ts.

In all the embodiments of my invention herein shown and described, it will be noted that the clamping ring segments are connected with each other only through their connection with the tensionelement or member, which extendsentirely around the ring and pipe, engaging portions of the segments at a distance from a plane passing through the packing recess perpendicular to the axis of the ring, and holding the engaged portions of the clamping ring segments against radial movement outwardly in a direction perpendicular to the bolt strain, so that the portions of each rng segment is given an independent turning moment to accommodate not only variations in the external diameters of the particular pipe section with which the ring is used, but also to accommodate variations in the outer surface of the pipe itself, such as variations from a perfectly true circle, or variations in the thickness of the pipe wall at particular` points around the same. The strain of the through bolts is exerted in lines parallel with the axis of the ring and pipe, while the strain of the tension member is exerted in a i plane perpendicular thereto, and the resultant force greater than either of these stresses is transmitted directly to the packing, and in an inclined direction toward the angle formed at the intersection of the exterior of the pipe and the face of the bell and its solid packing, and resulting in all cases in the forming of a tight joint between the packing and said intersecting faces.

What I claim and desire to secure by Letters Patent is:

1. A self adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of segments, each provided with a packing engaging portion, bolt receiving portions located at a greater distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion, a substantially circular tension element connected with each of said segments, at points at a distance longitudinally with respect to the axis of the ring from the plane of the packing engaging portions, for holding the segments at said points against outward movement, each segment having a turning moment with respect to said tension element permitting the packing engaging portions thereof to move inwardly toward the axis of the ring.

2. A self adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of segments each provided with a plate member disposed at an..angle to the axis of the ring, and having at its inner edge packing engaging portions, said plate member being provided with bolt receiving means, said ring segments be'ng provided with tension shoulders disposed substantially parallel to the axis of the ring, and extending rearwardly of the packing engaging portions of .the ring, and -an annular tension band extending aroundand engaging the tension shoulders of all the segments, and per- .said tension element.

manently connected therewith and holding the ments inring formation, said tension band Abeing -member disposed atan angle to the axis of the' ring, and having at its inner edge packing engaging portions, said plate ,member being provided with bolt-receiving means, said ring segments being provided with tension shoulders disposed substantially parallel to the axis of the ring, and located on the outer side of they bolt circle of the ring and at a distance longitudinally with respect to the axis of the ring from the plane of the packing engaging portions of the ring, and an annular tension element extending around the ring and engaging said shoulders, to hold them against outward movement, each segment having a turning moment with respect to said tension element.

4. A self adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of segments each provided with a plate member disposed at an angle to the axis of the ring, and having at its inner edge packing engaging portions, said plate member being provided with bolt receiving means, said ring segments being providedwith tension shoulders disposed substantially parallel to the axis oi the ring, and located on the outer side of the bolt receiving portions of the plate member, and an annular tension element having portions for engag'ng said shoulders of all of the segments, and bolt apertures adjacent thereto, each segment having a turning moment with respect to said tension element on an axis substantially in line with the axis of the adjacent bolt aperture in 5. A self adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of independently movable segments provided with packing engaging portions, bolt receiving portions located at a greater distance from the axis'of the ring than the packing engaging portion, and tension shoulders located at a distance longitudinally with respect to the axis of the ring from the plane of the packing engaging portions, a tension element connecting the tension shoulders of said segments for`-holding them against outward movement while permitting the independent'.` inward movement o1' the packing engaging portions of each segment with respect to said tension element, and bridge pieces extending across the spaces between the ends of adjacent segments and engaging the packing engaging portions thereof.'

6. A self-adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of independently movable segments provided with packing engaging portions adjacent to their inner edges, and provided with means for securing clamping bolts thereto at points lorcated at a distance outwardly from said packing plurality of, independently movable segments provided with segmental packing engaging portions adjacent to their inner edges, and provided with means for securing clamping bolts thereto at points located at a distance outwardly from said packing engaging portions, and means engaging said' segments at Vpoints removed longitudinally with respect to the axis of the ring from said packing engaging portions, for holding said segments assembled in ring formation, and producing in each of said segments an inwardly turning movement under strain applied to said bolt connecting means.

8. A self-adjusting packing ring comprising a plurality of segments, each provided with a packing engaging portion and having a portion adapted to receive a clampingbolt located at a greater` distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion, and a portion extending rearwardly from the packing engaging portion of each segment, and tension means engaging said rearwardly extending portions for holding said segments in ring formation, said segments adapted under pressure from said clamping bolts to react against said tension means to force said packing engaging portion in a direction toward the axis of the ring.

9. A self-adjusting packing ring comprising a plurality of segments, each provided with a packing engaging portion and having a portion adapted to receive a clamping' bolt located at a greater distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion, and a portion extending rearwardly from the packing engaging portion of v packing engaging portion in a direction toward the axis of the ring, said tension means 'having a detachable connection to facilitate the placing of the ring around a pipe section; t

l0. A self-adjusting packing ring comprising a plurality of segments, each provided with a packing engaging portion, and having a portion adapted to receive a clamping bolt located at a greater distance from the axis of the ring than the packingl engaging portion and a portion extending rearwardly from the packing engaging portion of each segment, a substantially circular tension element engaging said rearwardly extending portions for holding said segments inring formation, said segments adapted under pressure from said clamping bolts to react against said tension means to force said packing engaging portion in portion of each segment, and substantially circular tension means engaging said rearwardly extending portions for holding said segments in ring formation, said segments adapted under pressure from said clamping bolts to react against said tension means to force said packing engaging portion in a direction toward the axis -of the ring said tension element being formed of segments having overlapping portions, provided with transversely disposed interengaging serrated portions and bolts for holding said interengaging serrated portions rigidly in adjusted relation.

12. A self-adjusting packing ring comprising a plurality of segments, each provided with a packing engaging portion, and having a portion adapted to receive a clamping bolt located at a greater distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion, and a tension shoulder extending in a direction parallel with the axis of the ring rearwardly from the packing engaging portion of each segment and lying in the same axial plane and in substantial alignment with the bolt receiving portion, and a vsubstantially circular tension member having portions engaging the tension shoulder or each ring segment, and holding said shoulder against outward movement, while permitting the independent inward movement of the packing engaging portions of each segment, under the action of bolt strain applied to said bolt receiving portions thereof.

13. A self-adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of independently movable segments provided with packing engaging portions, bolt receiving portions located at a greater distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engaging portions and tension 'shoulders extending in a direction parallel with the'axis of the ring rearwardly from the packing engaging portions and provided with attaching studs, a substantially circular tension member having apertures to engage said studs of all the sections and means for securing said studs in engagement with said apentures.

141A self-adjusting clamping ring comprising ll@ a plurality of independently movable segments, provided with packing engaging portions, vbolt receiving portions located at a greater distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion and tension shoulders lying in llo vsubstantially the same radial plane with the bolt receiving portions` of the ring, and located at a distance longitudinally with respect to the axis of the ring from the packing engaging portions, and provided with attaching studs, a substantially circular tension member having bearing portions to engage said shoulders and apertures to engage the attaching studs carried by said shoulders, and means adapted to permanently secure said studs in engagement with said apertures.v

15. 4A self-adjusting packing ring comprisin a plurality of segments, provided with packing engaging portions, bolt receiving portions located at a greater distance from the axis of thering than the packing engaging portions, and tension shoulders substantially in the saine radial plane with the bolt receiving portions of the ring and a substantially circular tension member having portions engaging the tension shoulders of each -ring segment and holding said shoulders against outward movement, while permitting the independent inward movement of the packing engaging portions of each segment, under the action of bolt strain applied to said bolt receiving portions thereof, said tension ring being formed of segments having overlapping ends provided with transversely serrated interengaging faces, bolts for clamping said faces rigidly in their adjusted position, saidtension ring having portions to engage said shoulders and apertures to engage said studs, and bendable attaching projections on said studs for permanently securing said tension ring and segments together; Y

16. A repair clamp comprising a self-adjusting clamping ring consisting of a plurality of separate segments, each provided with a packing engaging portion and having a bolt receiving portion located at a greater distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion of each segment, an adjustable bull ring having bolt receiving portions, bolts passing through the bolt receiving portions of said segments and said ring for clamping the two together, a portion extending rearwardly from the packing engaging portion of each segment, a tension element engaging said rearwardly extending portion of each segment to hold them against outward movement, while permitting the inward movement of the packing engaging portions of each segment lunder strain applied to the bolt receiving portions thereof, said tension element being adjustable to vary the diameter thereof.

17. A self-adjusting clamping ring comprising a plurality of independently movable segments provided with packing engaging portions, and having a portion adapted to receive a clamping bolt located at a greater distance from the axis of the ring than the packing engaging portion, and a portion extending rearwardly of the packing engaging portions of each segment, a tension element connecting said rearwardly extending portions for holding them against outward movement while permitting the independent inward movement of the packing engaging portions of each segment with respect to said tension element, 'and sheet metal bridge pieces extending across the spaces between the endsof adjacentl

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