Patent ID: 6053210
Filing Date: 2000-04-25
Classification: A23B,B22F,F16K,F16L,F23D,F24S,F25D,F28F,Y02E,Y02P

Abstract:
A tube having located therein an inflatable plug for regulating pressure or flow within the tube, the inflatable plug comprising an inflatable bladder adapted for diametral expansion by application of internal fluid pressure, fluid inlet means communicating with the interior of the bladder for connection to a source of inflating fluid and reinforcement means including a plurality of flexible reinforcing cords which provide axial reinforcement to the plug and diametral support to the bladder, the improvement wherein each said reinforcing cord comprises a plurality of untwisted single strands which individually redistribute over the surface of the bladder as the bladder expands upon inflation towards an internal surface of the tube, whereby to allow controlled leakage past the plug of a lubricating flow of fluid within the tube.