Patent ID: 8454056
Filing Date: 2013-06-04
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
1. A coupling apparatus for releasably connecting two closely-adjoining disposed pipe ends together, wherein each pipe end has a longitudinal axis, and wherein each pipe end has a flange extending radially therefrom, so that when the pipe ends are positioned to substantially adjoin one another, the flanges of the pipe ends are substantially juxtaposed to one another, the coupling apparatus comprising: an arcuate primary strap member, having two adjacent spaced-apart free ends, the arcuate primary strap member being configured to be placed circumferentially around the juxtaposed flanges of the two closely-adjoining ends; at least two retainer segments, each of which at least two retainer segments is positioned within an inner surface of the arcuate primary strap member, each retainer segment further having a concavity disposed therein to receive and exert at least an axial compressive force on each of the substantially juxtaposed flanges of the pipe ends, when the coupling apparatus is mounted about the pipe ends; a fastening mechanism operably connected to the ends of the primary strap member and configured to be selectively tightened and loosened, to selectively bring together or move apart the two adjacent spaced-apart tree ends, respectively, so as to decrease or increase the total circumferential length of the primary strap member and the fastening mechanism, respectively, to in turn, exert or remove axial compressive force on the flanges of the closely-adjoining pipe ends; and a secondary strap element, encircling at least most of the circumference of the arcuate primary strap member, and cooperatively engaged with the fastening mechanism, to facilitate maintenance of the coupling apparatus about the closely-adjoining pipe ends, in the event of a failure of the primary strap member.