Patent ID: 7716967
Filing Date: 2010-05-18
Classification: F16L,G01M,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A method for detecting a leak at a flanged joint comprising first and second flanges coupled to respective first and second pipes, the method comprising the steps of: (A) stretching and moving an elastomeric leak detector sleeve over the first flange of the flanged joint so the elastomeric leak detector sleeve is around the first pipe, the elastomeric leak detector sleeve comprising a circular band of elastomeric material having a width and forming a complete circle with no joints; (B) mechanically coupling the first flange to the second flange; (C) stretching and moving the elastomeric leak detector sleeve from the first pipe over a gap between the first and second flanges of the flanged joint, the leak detector sleeve including a hole that communicates with the gap when the leak detector sleeve is placed over the first and second flanges of the flanged joint; and (D) placing a tip of a sniffer probe into or near the hole to detect whether a gas exists in the gap between the two flanges of the flanged joint.