Patent ID: 8556302
Filing Date: 2013-10-15
Classification: F16L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A pipe coupling for securing end portions of a pair of pipe elements together end-to-end, said coupling comprising: a pair of segments connected end-to-end surrounding a central space for receiving said pipe elements, each said segment having a pair of arcuate surfaces positioned in spaced relation, said arcuate surfaces facing said central space and being engagable with said pipe elements; a pivot attachment positioned at one end of said segments, said pivot attachment pivotally connecting said segments to one another; connection members positioned on each of said segments at an end opposite to said pivot attachment, said connection members being adjustably tightenable for drawing said segments toward one another; at least one reaction surface positioned on each of said segments, said reaction surfaces facing toward said central space; at least one gripping body positioned between said segments, said gripping body having a pair of gripping surfaces positioned in spaced apart relation and facing said central space; a pair of contact surfaces positioned on said gripping body, each said contact surface being in facing relation with one of said reaction surfaces, at least one of said contact surfaces or at least one of said reaction surfaces having a convex shape; and wherein adjustable tightening of said connection members pivots said segments about said pivot attachment thereby drawing said coupling segments together for engagement of said arcuate surfaces with said pipe elements, said contact surfaces interacting with said reaction surfaces to move said at least one gripping body toward said central space for engagement of said gripping surfaces with said pipe elements.