Patent ID: 6122827
Filing Date: 2000-09-26
Classification: B23D

Abstract:
An apparatus for cutting fracturable tubular members, comprising:a flexible cutter chain adapted for encircling and cutting said tubular members;a first handle pivotally attached at a first end thereof to one end of said cutter chain by a transverse pivot pin, a second end of said first handle having pivotally connected thereto a contact member;a second handle having a first part for detachably securing a second end of said cutter chain, said second handle comprising a means for retaining a power actuating means, said retaining means comprising a hydraulic ram holder and a ram retainer secured to said ram holder and to a second end of said second handle, said ram retainer having secured thereto a ram retainer plate, an outwardly extending knob that extends into an arcuate cutout formed in said hydraulic ram holder and an elongated threaded rod for detachably securing a hydraulic ram in said hydraulic ram holder, said hydraulic ram having an internally threaded holder for receiving a bolt connected to said outwardly extending knob and securing said ram retainer to said hydraulic ram;a contact member pivotally mounted on said first handle, said contact member being adapted for receiving application of an external force tending to push said first handle from said second handle, thereby imparting a squeezing action on said cutter chain;a handle retainer means mounted on said second handle for temporarily retaining said handles in a spaced-apart relationship prior to application of hydraulic force to said power actuating means, said handle retainer means comprising a cylindrical body having a through opening for receiving and retaining a spacing rod therein, said spacing rod pushing said first handle away from said second handle prior to securing said hydraulic ram in said hydraulic ram holder.