Patent ID: 6568711
Filing Date: 2003-05-27
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
A positive gapping device for socket welded fittings, said positive gapping device comprising:(a) a socket fitting having at least one recessed area for receiving a pipe section engageable with said recessed area of said socket fitting, said recessed area including a ledge portion; and (b) a gapping means integrally formed as a single piece on one of a surface of said ledge portion of said recessed area of said socket fitting facing an end of said pipe section and said end of said pipe section facing said ledge portion of said recessed area of said socket fitting for providing a space between said socket fitting and said pipe section to reduce residual stresses resulting from a welding operation, wherein at least one of said socket fitting and said pipe section further includes an identification means on an exterior surface of said one of said socket fitting and said pipe section for identifying one of said socket fitting and said pipe section as having a proper gapping means disposed therein, said identification means is one of a stamped profile and a machined profile.