Patent ID: 6016846
Filing Date: 2000-01-25
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
A flexible tubular pipe insulation sleeve of foamed elastomeric material having permanent set and memory so as to form a measurable major and minor axis in cross section over time and wherein said major axis of said sleeve has a length greater than the length of said minor axis, said sleeve as formed having a body which is bounded by a cylindrical inner surface adapted to surround a pipe and a cylindrical outer surface which is concentric with said inner surface, said sleeve as formed further including a longitudinal slit extending from said inner surface to said outer surface, at least a portion of said slit as formed being of a wedge shape in cross section with an apex end and an open end, said apex end of said wedge shape nearer to said outer surface of said sleeve than said open end and said slit further comprising a pair of opposite walls, said slit is oriented within a range of about 45.degree. on either side of said minor axis of said sleeve which has formed over time.