Patent ID: 7395695
Filing Date: 2008-07-08
Classification: G01M,G01N

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for testing the integrity of a pipe, said pipe having a length and first and second openings, the apparatus comprising: a mandrel adapted to be inserted into the pipe; said mandrel having first and second ends, wherein said first end is proximal to the first opening of said pipe and said second end is proximal to the second opening of said pipe; a first sealing device adapted to be secured to the first end of said mandrel and for sealing said first opening of the pipe; a second sealing device adapted to be secured to the second end of said mandrel and for sealing said second opening of the pipe; said second sealing device comprising: (a) an annular sealing ring, coaxially provided over said mandrel adjacent the second opening of said pipe, said sealing ring having an outer diameter greater than the diameter of the said second opening; and, (b) a means for urging the sealing ring in an axial direction against the second opening of the pipe; wherein said annular sealing ring includes: a first seal adapted to form a seal between said sealing ring and said second opening of the pipe; and, a second seal adapted to form a seal between said sealing ring and the outer surface of said mandrel; wherein the means for urging the sealing ring includes two or more circumferentially spaced force applying means adapted to apply a force against said sealing ring in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the pipe; whereby, when in use, a generally annular space is created between said mandrel, said pipe, and said first and second sealing devices; one or more ports for filling said annular space with a pressurizing fluid or for voiding said annular space of air or said fluid; and, a means for monitoring the pressure within said annular space.