Patent ID: 8562331
Filing Date: 2013-10-22
Classification: B21D,B29C

Abstract:
1. A tool for expanding a pipe end, the tool comprising a plurality of jaws, which are radially movable in relation to a center axis between a retracted position and an outer expanding position and which, when retracted, are configured to be inserted into the pipe end, wherein the movable jaws have outer jaw surfaces which are configured for engagement with the inner surface of the pipe end and which lie adjacent to one another in the retracted position of the jaws and have an at least generally circular arcuate cross section, a piston or cone with a tapered end for moving the jaws between said positions, an actuator configured to move the piston or cone in an axial direction such that the plurality of jaws are moved between the retracted position and the outer expanding position, and a guide mechanism configured to maintain the plurality of jaws circumferentially in a first position as the plurality of jaws are moved from the retracted position to the outer expanding position and to rotate the movable jaws a certain amount in a circumferential direction when the jaws are in a position configured not to be in contact with the inner surface of the pipe end.