Patent ID: 7712796
Filing Date: 2010-05-11
Classification: F16L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. In combination, interconnectable pipe coupling segments and a pair of pipe elements, each said coupling segment being positionable straddling facing end portions of said pair of pipe elements for securing said pipe elements together in end-to-end relationship, wherein said end portions of said pipe elements have an outer surface of substantially cylindrical profile, said pipe elements each having a circumferential groove in said outer surfaces of said end portions, and wherein each said segment comprises: first and second arcuate surfaces adapted to contact the outer surfaces of said pipe elements within said circumferential grooves, said arcuate surfaces being in spaced apart relation to one another on opposite sides of said segment, each of said arcuate surfaces subtending an angle of less than 180° and having a radius of curvature greater than the radius of curvature of said outer surfaces of said pipe elements exclusive of said circumferential grooves; and connection members for adjustably connecting one coupling segment to another, said connection members being adjustably tightenable for drawing said arcuate surfaces of said segments into contact with said outer surfaces of said pipe elements within said circumferential grooves, said segments being deformable upon adjustable tightening of said connection members so as to substantially conform the curvature of said arcuate surfaces to the outer surfaces of said pipe elements within said circumferential grooves.