Patent ID: 9528642
Filing Date: 2016-12-27
CPC Classification: F16L,Y10T

Claim Text:
1. A method for coupling first and second pipe elements in end to end relation, said method comprising: using a pipe coupling having first and second coupling segments attached to one another end to end surrounding a central axis and defining a central space, said coupling segments being supported in spaced apart relation on an elastic ring gasket, said coupling segments having adjustable connection members at each end for drawing said coupling segments toward said central space when said connection members are tightened, at least one of said coupling segments comprising: prior to tightening of said connection members, inserting said first pipe element into said central space from one side of said pipe coupling, said first pipe element engaging at least one of said outwardly facing surface portions of said first projection and thereby pivoting said coupling segments relatively to one another about an axis passing through said connection members to provide clearance for inserting said first pipe element; prior to tightening of said connection members, inserting said second pipe element into said central space from an opposite side of said pipe coupling; and tightening said connection members and thereby drawing said coupling segments toward one another and into engagement with said first and second pipe elements to couple them in end to end relation.