Mechanical joint gasket with protrusions

A mechanical joint according to which a gasket includes wipers, or protrusions, on an internal surface of the gasket, on an external surface of the gasket, or on both internal and external surfaces of the gasket.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates in general to mechanical joints and in particular to mechanical joint gaskets.

BACKGROUND

In some cases, conventional mechanical joint gaskets are unable to sufficiently maintain a seal on pipes having textured surfaces. Pipes with textured surfaces represent a typical production run, as offered by manufacturers engaged in manufacturing ductile iron pipe in the diameter of 60 inches. For example, American Cast Iron Pipe Company (“ACIPCO”) offers a very rough surfaced or textured pipe. The surface roughness of the pipe is due to a mold preparation process that includes shot peening. As the ductile iron pipe is centrifugally cast, the hot iron creates a severe thermal shock to the water-cooled steel mold. This shock is detrimental to the life of the mold. Shot peening of the surface of the mold creates a compressed condition on the surface of the mold, thereby reducing the potential for stress cracking and other effects impairing the life of the mold. These peen patterns of the pipe molds, when significantly pronounced, result in overlapping and/or randomized bumps in the external surface of the pipe, which create leak paths for water or other fluids.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated inFIGS.1and2, a mechanical joint5includes a bell10that couples to a spigot end of a pipe15using a gland20, a gasket25, t-bolts30, and nuts35. In some embodiments, the mechanical joint5is used to seal two pieces of pipe such that the pipe can be used to transport a liquid under pressure. In some embodiments, the mechanical joint5is used to couple two portions or pieces of pipe that will be buried underground.

In some embodiments, the pipe15is approximately a 60″ nominal pipe size and made of ductile iron pipe, but the inner diameter of the pipe may vary. In some embodiments, the external surface of the pipe15is textured due to the use of a shot peened mold in forming the pipe15. When the mold used is shot peened, the surface of the mold forms dimples. As such, and as illustrated inFIG.3, the pipe15, which is formed using a shot peened surface, has a surface that forms inverse dimples. In some embodiments, the inverse dimples forms overlapping and/or randomized bumps40in the surface of the pipe15. Between the bumps40are a series of valleys or channels45. The bump size depends on the dimensions of the balls used in the shot peening of the mold. In some embodiments, the pipe15is manufactured by American Cast Iron Pipe Company (“ACIPCO”) of Birmingham, Ala., USA.

In some embodiments, the bell10has an inner diameter that is greater than an external diameter of the pipe15such that a portion of the bell10receives a portion of the pipe15. In some embodiments and as illustrated inFIG.2, at least an inner surface of the bell10is formed from a shot peened mold and has overlapping and/or randomized bumps and channels similar to the bumps40and channels45on the external surface of the pipe15.

In some embodiments and as illustrated inFIGS.4A-4C, the gasket25has a ring-shaped body50forming an opening55, with the opening55extending between a first end60of the body50and an opposing second end65of the body50. The opening55has a center illustrated by the line70inFIG.4A. The body50has an inner surface75adapted to engage the pipe15and an outer surface80adapted to engage the bell10. In some embodiments, the outer surface80includes a first face80athat defines the first end60, a second face80b, a third face80c, a fourth face80d, and a fifth face80ethat defines the second end65. As illustrated inFIG.4C, the first face80ais generally perpendicular to the inner surface75and to the fourth face80d; the fourth face80dis parallel to portions of the inner surface75, the third surface80cforms a 20-degree angle with the fourth face80d, and the first face80aforms a 45-degree angle with the second face80b. As such, the third face80cis also angled, at a 20-degree angle, relative to portions of the inner surface75. In some embodiments, the inner surface75defines the opening55and the outer surface80defines an outer circumference of the gasket25. A first plurality of wipers, or protrusions85, is formed by the inner surface75of the body50and a second plurality of protrusions90is formed by the outer surface80.

As illustrated, the first plurality of protrusions85includes a first protrusion95, a second protrusion100, and a third protrusion105. Each of the protrusions95,100, and105extends toward the center of the opening55. Each of the protrusions95,100, and105is spaced from each other, the first end60, and the second end65. As illustrated, each of the protrusions95,100, and105is V-shaped having peaks95a,100a, and105a, respectively, to define angles95b,100b, and105b, respectively. In some embodiments, the peaks95aand100aare spaced by about 0.40 inches and the peaks100aand105aare spaced by about 0.40 inches. In some embodiments, the peak95ais spaced from the first end60by about 0.40 inches and the peak105ais spaced from the second end65by about 0.34 inches. In some embodiments, the angles95b,100b, and105bare 90 degrees or about 90 degrees. While the angles95b,100b, and105bare illustrated as being of identical inFIGS.4A-4C, in other embodiments the angles95b,100b, and105bmay not be identical. In some embodiments, each of the peaks95a,100a, and105ahas a height, extending towards the center of the opening55, of about 0.10 inches. While the heights of the peaks95a,100a, and105aare illustrated as being identical inFIGS.4A-4C, in some embodiments the heights of the peaks95a,100a, and105aare not identical.

As illustrated, the second plurality of protrusions90includes a first protrusion110and a second protrusion115, with each of the protrusions110and115formed in the third face80cof the outer surface. As such, each of the protrusions110and115extends away from the center of the opening55at a 20-degree angle. The protrusions110and115are spaced from each other, the first end60, and the second end65. As illustrated, each of the protrusions110and115is V-shaped having peaks110aand115a, respectively, to define angles110band115b, respectively. In some embodiments, the peaks110aand115aare spaced by about 0.30 inches. In some embodiments, the angles110band115bare 90 degrees or about 90 degrees. While the angles110band115bare illustrated as being of identical inFIGS.4A-4C, in other embodiments the angles110band115bmay not be identical. In some embodiments, each of the peaks110aand115ahas a height, extending away from the third face80c, of about 0.08 inches. While the heights of the peaks110aand115aare illustrated as being identical inFIGS.4A-4C, in some embodiments the heights of the peaks110aand115aare not identical.

In some embodiments, the angles110band115bare identical to the angles95b,100b, and105b. In other embodiments, the angles110band115bare different from the angles95b,100b, and105b. In some embodiments, the heights of the peaks110aand115aare identical to the heights of the peaks95a,100a, and105a. In other embodiments, the heights of the peaks110aand115aare different from the heights of the peaks95a,100a, and105a. As such, in some embodiments the first plurality of protrusions80has the same size as the second plurality of protrusions85. In other embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions85has a different size than the second plurality of protrusions90. In some embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions85is also angled relative to the second plurality of protrusions90.

As illustrated, the ring-shaped body50forms an uninterrupted continuous ring and each of the protrusions95,100,105,110, and115also forms an uninterrupted continuous ring. Generally, each of the rings formed by the protrusions95,100, and105are in parallel and each of the rings formed by the protrusions110and115are in parallel.

In operation, with continuing reference toFIGS.4A-4Cand referring back toFIGS.1-3, the bell10is coupled to the spigot end of the pipe15. The t-bolts30extend through respective coaxial openings in bell10and the gland20, so that the respective threaded portions of the t-bolts30extend beyond the gland20. The nuts35are tightly threadably engaged with the threaded portions of the t-bolts30, respectively. As a result, the gland20and the bell10are drawn together, compressing the gasket25therebetween so that the gasket25sealingly engages the textured external surface of the pipe15, as well as the textured internal surface of the bell10. More particularly, the inner surface75, and the protrusions95,100, and105, sealingly engage the textured external surface of the pipe15, with the protrusions95,100, and105deforming around the bumps40, sealingly engaging the surface(s) defining the channels45or valleys. Likewise, at least portions of the outer surface80, and the protrusions110and115, sealingly engage the textured internal surface of the bell10, with the protrusions110and115deforming in a manner like that of the protrusions95,100, and105. As a result, in one or more embodiments, the gasket25prevents pressurized liquid in the pipe15and the bell10from leaking across the gasket25and out of the mechanical joint5, notwithstanding the textured surfaces against which the gasket25is sealingly engaged. In some embodiments, a grip ring (not shown) is positioned between the gland20and the gasket25.

FIGS.5A-5Cillustrate another embodiment of the gasket25that is designated by the numeral200. The gasket200is similar to the gasket25and the same numerals are used to identify elements of the gasket200that are identical to the elements of the gasket25. For example, the gasket200has the ring-shaped body50forming the opening55, with the opening55extending between the first end60of the body50and the opposing second end65of the body50. The body50has the inner surface75adapted to engage the pipe15and the outer surface80adapted to engage the bell10. In some embodiments, the outer surface80includes the first face80athat defines the first end60, the second face80b, the third face80c, the fourth face80d, and the fifth face80ethat defines the second end65. As illustrated inFIG.5C, the first face80ais generally perpendicular to the inner surface75and to the fourth face80d; the fourth face80dis parallel to portions of the inner surface75, the third surface80cforms a 20-degree angle with the fourth face80d, and the first face80aforms a 45-degree angle with the second face80b. As such, the third face80cis also angled, at a 20-degree angle, relative to portions of the inner surface75. In some embodiments, the inner surface75defines the opening55and the outer surface80defines the outer circumference of the gasket25. A first plurality of protrusions205is formed by the inner surface75of the body50of the gasket200and a second plurality of protrusions210is formed by the outer surface80of the gasket200.

As illustrated, the first plurality of protrusions205includes a first protrusion215and a second protrusion220. Each of the protrusions215and220extends toward the center of the opening55. Each of the protrusions215and220is spaced from the other, the first end60, and the second end65. As illustrated, each of the protrusions215and220is V-shaped having peaks215aand220a, respectively, to define angles215band220b, respectively. In some embodiments, the peaks215aand220aare spaced by about 0.725 inches. In some embodiments, the peak215ais spaced from the first end60by about 0.40 inches and the peak220ais spaced from the second end65by about 0.42 inches. In some embodiments, the angles215band220bare 110 degrees or about 110 degrees. While the angles215band220bare illustrated as being of identical inFIGS.5A-5C, in other embodiments the angles215band220bmay not be identical. In some embodiments, each of the peaks215aand220ahas a height, extending towards the center of the opening55, of about 0.09 inches. While the heights of the peaks215aand220aare illustrated as being identical inFIGS.5A-5C, in some embodiments the heights of the peaks215aand220aare not identical.

As illustrated, the second plurality of protrusions210includes a first protrusion225and a second protrusion230, with each of the protrusions225and230formed in the third face80cof the outer surface. As such, each of the protrusions225and230extends away from the center of the opening55at a 20-degree angle. The protrusions225and230are spaced from each other, the first end60, and the second end65. As illustrated, each of the protrusions225and230is V-shaped having peaks225aand230a, respectively, to define angles225band230b, respectively. In some embodiments, the peaks225aand230aare spaced by about 0.35 inches. In some embodiments, the angles225band230bare 110 degrees or about 110 degrees. While the angles225band230bare illustrated as being of identical inFIGS.5A-5C, in other embodiments the angles225band230bmay not be identical. In some embodiments, each of the peaks225aand230ahas a height, extending away from the third face80c, of about 0.06 inches. While the heights of the peaks225aand230aare illustrated as being identical inFIGS.5A-5C, in some embodiments the heights of the peaks225aand230aare not identical.

In some embodiments, the angles215band220bare identical to the angles225band230b. In other embodiments, the angles215band220bare different from the angles225band230b. In some embodiments, the heights of the peaks215aand220aare identical to the heights of the peaks225aand230a. In other embodiments, the heights of the peaks215aand220aare different from to the heights of the peaks225aand230a. As such, in some embodiments the first plurality of protrusions205has the same size as the second plurality of protrusions210. In other embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions205has a different size than the second plurality of protrusions210. In some embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions205is also angled relative to the second plurality of protrusions210.

As illustrated, the ring-shaped body50of the gasket200forms an uninterrupted continuous ring and each of the protrusions215,220,225, and230also forms an uninterrupted continuous ring. Generally, each of the rings formed by the protrusions215and220are in parallel and each of the rings formed by the protrusions225and230are in parallel.

FIGS.6A-6Cillustrate yet another embodiment of the gasket25that is designated by the numeral250. The gasket250is similar to the gasket25and the same numerals are used to identify elements of the gasket250that are identical to the elements of the gasket25. For example, the gasket250has the ring-shaped body50forming the opening55, with the opening55extending between the first end60of the body50and the opposing second end65of the body50. The body50has the inner surface75adapted to engage the pipe15and the outer surface80adapted to engage the bell10. In some embodiments, the outer surface80includes the first face80athat defines the first end60, the second face80b, the third face80c, the fourth face80d, and the fifth face80ethat defines the second end65. As illustrated inFIG.6C, the first face80ais generally perpendicular to the inner surface75and to the fourth face80d; the fourth face80dis parallel to portions of the inner surface75, the third surface80cforms a 20-degree angle with the fourth face80d, and the first face80aforms a 45-degree angle with the second face80b. As such, the third face80cis also angled, at a 20-degree angle, relative to portions of the inner surface75. In some embodiments, the inner surface75defines the opening55and the outer surface80defines the outer circumference of the gasket25. A first plurality of protrusions255is formed by the inner surface75of the body50of the gasket250and a second plurality of protrusions260is formed by the outer surface80of the gasket250.

As illustrated, the first plurality of protrusions255includes a first protrusion261, a second protrusion265, and a third protrusion270. Each of the protrusions261,265, and270extends toward the center of the opening55. Each of the protrusions261,265, and270is spaced from the each other, the first end60, and the second end65. As illustrated, each of the protrusions261,265, and270is V-shaped having peaks261a,265a, and270a, respectively, to define angles261b,265b, and270b, respectively. In some embodiments, the peaks261aand265aare spaced by about 0.45 inches and the peaks265aand270aare spaced by about 0.45 inches. In some embodiments, the peak261ais spaced from the first end60by about 0.30 inches and the peak270ais spaced from the second end65by about 0.34 inches. In some embodiments, the angles261b,265b, and270bare 110 degrees or about 110 degrees. While the angles261b,265b, and270bare illustrated as being of identical inFIGS.6A-6C, in other embodiments the angles261b,265b, and270bmay not be identical. In some embodiments, each of the peaks261a,265a, and270ahas a height, extending towards the center of the opening55, of about 0.10 inches. While the heights of the peaks261a,265a, and270aare illustrated as being identical inFIGS.6A-6C, in some embodiments the heights of the peaks261a,265a, and270aare not identical.

As illustrated, the second plurality of protrusions260includes a first protrusion275and a second protrusion280, with each of the protrusions275and280formed in the third face80cof the outer surface80. As such, each of the protrusions275and280extends away from the center of the opening55at a 20-degree angle. The protrusions275and280are spaced from each other, the first end60, and the second end65. As illustrated, each of the protrusions275and280is V-shaped having peaks275aand280a, respectively, to define angles275band280b, respectively. In some embodiments, the peaks275aand280aare spaced by about 0.35 inches. In some embodiments, the angles275band280bare 110 degrees or about 110 degrees. While the angles275band280bare illustrated as being of identical inFIGS.6A-6C, in other embodiments the angles275band280bmay not be identical. In some embodiments, each of the peaks275aand280ahas a height, extending away from the third face80c, of about 0.07 inches. While the heights of the peaks275aand280aare illustrated as being identical inFIGS.6A-6C, in some embodiments the heights of the peaks275aand280aare not identical.

In some embodiments, the angles261b,265b, and270bare identical to the angles275band280b. In other embodiments, the angles261b,265b, and270bare different from the angles275band280b. In some embodiments, the heights of the peaks261a,265a, and270aare identical to the heights of the peaks275aand280a. In other embodiments, the heights of the peaks261a,265a, and270aare different from to the heights of the275aand280a. As such, in some embodiments the first plurality of protrusions255have the same size as the second plurality of protrusions260. In other embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions255have a different size than the second plurality of protrusions260. In some embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions255is also angled relative to the second plurality of protrusions260.

As illustrated, the ring-shaped body50of the gasket250forms an uninterrupted continuous ring and each of the protrusions261,265,270,275, and280also forms an uninterrupted continuous ring. Generally, each of the rings formed by the protrusions261,265, and270are in parallel and each of the rings formed by the protrusions275and280are in parallel.

As described above, each of the gaskets25,200, and250includes wipers or protrusions that are adapted to sealingly engage the exterior surface of the pipe15and wipers or protrusions that are adapted to sealingly engage the interior surface of the bell10. Generally, the protrusions95,100,105,110,115,215,220,225,230,261,265,270,275, and/or280deform around the bumps40, sealingly engaging the surface(s) forming the channels45or valleys. In some embodiments, the protrusions95,100,105,110,115,215,220,225,230,261,265,270,275, and/or280engage the overlapping, random bumps40on the surface of the pipe15and/or the bell10, and deform/deflect into channels45or valleys formed in the surface of the pipe15and/or the bell10, thereby providing a sealing engagement between the gasket25,200, or250and the outer surface of the pipe15as well as the inner surface of the bell10. In some embodiments, one or more of the protrusions95,100, and105;215and220; and261,265, and270circumferentially extend uninterruptedly along an internal surface of the gasket25,200, and250, respectively, and/or one or more protrusions110and115;225and230; and275and280circumferentially along an external surface of the gasket25,200, and250, respectively. In other embodiments any one or more of the protrusions95,100,105,110,115,215,220,225,230,261,265,270,275, and/or280may not circumferentially extend uninterruptedly around the internal and/or external surface(s) of the gasket25,200, or250.

The inner surface75may form any number of protrusions and is not limited to two or three protrusions as illustrated inFIGS.4A-4C,5A-5C, and6A-6C. For example, the inner surface may form one, four, five, six, seven, eight, or more protrusions. The outer surface80may form any number of protrusions and is not limited to two protrusions as illustrated inFIGS.4A-4C,5A-5C, and6A-6C. For example, the inner surface may form one, four, five, six, seven, eight, or more protrusions.

In some embodiments, use of the gasket25,200, and250results in a significant improvement in sealing capability when, for example, the pipe is a pipe formed using a shot peened mold.

In some embodiments, conventional gaskets form a “flat contact profile” between the gasket and another surface. Generally, a flat contact profile results from a gasket with a contact surface that is smooth or without protuberances/wipers. Generally, conventional gaskets cannot mold, deflect, and/or deform themselves down into the valleys or channels formed between the overlapping and/or randomized bumps.

In some embodiments, mechanical joint gaskets of the present disclosure are formed from a styrene-butadiene rubber (“SBR”) compound. In some embodiments, mechanical joint gaskets of the present disclosure are formed from nitrile rubber. In some embodiments, mechanical joint gaskets of the present disclosure are formed from ethylene propylene diene monomer (“EPDM”) rubber. In some embodiments, mechanical joint gaskets of the present disclosure are formed from neoprene. In some embodiments, mechanical joint gaskets of the present disclosure are formed from an FKM material such as, for example, Viton® brand FKM material.

In an experimental embodiment, experimental testing was conducted with a Standardized Mechanical Joint Seal300by EBAA Iron Inc., Eastland, Tex. The seal300and its dimensions are illustrated inFIG.7. The experimental test fixture was like that shown inFIGS.1and2, with the seal300sealingly engaging experimental embodiments of the bell10and the pipe15. The pipe15was an iron ductile pipe having a nominal 60-inch diameter and manufactured by ACIPCO, and had the overlapping and/or randomized bumps40protruding from its external surface. The bell10was also manufactured by ACIPCO, and had overlapping and/or random bumps, like that of the bumps40, protruding from its internal surface. During the experimental testing, the pipe15and the bell10were increasingly pressurized until leakage across the seal300occurred.

Using the above-described experimental test fixture and method, experimental testing was then conducted with an experimental embodiment of the gasket25ofFIGS.4A,4B, and4C. A dimensioned version of the experimental embodiment of the gasket25is illustrated inFIG.8, which shows dimensions/angles (collectively “the dimensions”) A-O. Unless otherwise shown inFIG.8, the experimental embodiment of the gasket25ofFIGS.4A,4B, and4Chas the same dimensions as those of the seal300illustrated inFIG.7. The values of the dimensions A-O are set forth in Table 1 below:

TABLE 1Dimensions/Angles of the Experimental Embodiment ofGasket 25Dimension/AngleValueA0.40inchesB0.40inchesC0.40inchesD0.18inchesE0.44inchesF45degreesG0.08inchesH0.30inchesI0.30inchesJ20degreesK0.38inchesL0.10inchesM0.08inchesN90degreesO0.73inches

A comparison of the experimental testing of the seal300and the experimental embodiment of the gasket25, showing maximum pressures until leakage, is set forth in Table 2 below:

As indicated in Table 2 above, the gasket25provided a maximum pressure that was over four (4) times that of the seal300. This significant increase was an unexpected result. It was unknown whether there would be any improvement, much less a greater than expected result of over four (4) times improvement. For the gasket25to include protrusions that provide built-in offsets of upper dimension G (0.08 inches) and lower dimension M (0.08 inches), and to still provide a maximum pressure that was over four (4) times that of the seal300, was an unexpected result. Previous seals or gaskets, such as the seal300, have smooth upper and lower surfaces, with no built-in off-sets, to maximize respective contact areas of sealing engagement.

Using the above-described experimental test fixture and method, experimental testing was then conducted with an experimental embodiment of the gasket200ofFIGS.5A,5B, and5C. A dimensioned version of the experimental embodiment of the gasket200is illustrated inFIG.9, which shows dimensions/angles (collectively “the dimensions”) A-O. Unless otherwise shown inFIG.9, the experimental embodiment of the gasket200ofFIGS.5A,5B, and5Chas the same dimensions as those of the seal300illustrated inFIG.7. The values of the dimensions A-O are set forth in Table 3 below:

TABLE 3Dimensions/Angles of the Experimental Embodiment ofGasket 200Dimension/AngleValueA0.40inchesB0.725inchesCNot PresentD0.18inchesE0.43inchesF45degreesG0.06inchesH0.35inchesI0.25inchesJ20degreesK0.38inchesL0.10inchesM0.09inchesN110degreesO0.725inches

During the experimental testing, the gasket200provided a maximum pressure that was essentially the same as the maximum pressure provided by the gasket25. Additional experimental tests were conducted with gaskets having profiles/cross-sections similar to the gasket25, the gasket200, or the gasket250, with all tests providing maximum pressures on the order of the maximum pressure provided by the gasket25.

Based on the foregoing experimental tests and their unexpected results, for the gasket25, the gasket200, the gasket250, or another gasket having a profile/cross-section similar to the gasket25, the gasket200, or the gasket250, at least the following combination of dimensions would provide similar unexpected results: the dimension A ranges from 0.30 inches to 0.40 inches; the dimension B ranges from 0.40 inches to 0.725 inches; the dimension G ranges from 0.06 inches to 0.08 inches; the dimension H ranges from 0.30 inches to 0.35 inches; the dimension I ranges from 0.20 inches to 0.30 inches; the dimension M ranges from 0.08 inches to 0.10 inches; and the angle N ranges from 90 degrees to 110 degrees.

Based on the foregoing experimental tests and their unexpected results, for the gasket25, the gasket200, the gasket250, or another gasket having a profile/cross-section similar to the gasket25, the gasket200, or the gasket250, at least the following combination of dimensions would provide similar unexpected results: the dimension A ranges from 0.30 inches to 0.40 inches; the dimension B ranges from 0.40 inches to 0.725 inches; the dimension D is 0.18 inches; the dimension E ranges from 0.41 inches to 0.44 inches; the angle F is 45 degrees; the dimension G ranges from 0.06 inches to 0.08 inches; the dimension H ranges from 0.30 inches to 0.35 inches; the dimension I ranges from 0.20 inches to 0.30 inches; the angle J is 20 degrees; the dimension K of the gasket25is 0.38 inches; the dimension L is 0.10 inches; the dimension M ranges from 0.08 inches to 0.10 inches; the angle N ranges from 90 degrees to 110 degrees; and the dimension O ranges from 0.71 inches to 0.73 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension A of the gasket25ranges from 0.25 inches to 0.45 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension A of the gasket25ranges from 0.30 inches to 0.40 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension A of the gasket25is 0.40 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension B of the gasket25ranges from 0.35 inches to 0.775 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension B of the gasket25ranges from 0.40 inches to 0.725 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension B of the gasket25is 0.40 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension C of the gasket25ranges from 0.35 inches to 0.45 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension C of the gasket25is 0.40 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension D of the gasket25ranges from 0.13 inches to 0.23 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension D of the gasket25is 0.18 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension E of the gasket25ranges from 0.38 inches to 0.49 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension E of the gasket25ranges from 0.43 inches to 0.44 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension E of the gasket25is 0.44 inches.

In an example embodiment, the angle F of the gasket25ranges from 40 degrees to 50 degrees. In an example embodiment, the angle F of the gasket25is 45 degrees.

In an example embodiment, the dimension G of the gasket25ranges from 0.05 inches to 0.09 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension G of the gasket25ranges from 0.06 inches to 0.08 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension G of the gasket25is 0.08 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension H of the gasket25ranges from 0.25 inches to 0.40 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension H of the gasket25ranges from 0.30 inches to 0.35 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension H of the gasket25is 0.30 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension I of the gasket25ranges from 0.20 inches to 0.35 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension I of the gasket25ranges from 0.25 inches to 0.30 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension I of the gasket25is 0.30 inches.

In an example embodiment, the angle J of the gasket25ranges from 15 degrees to 25 degrees. In an example embodiment, the angle J of the gasket25is 20 degrees.

In an example embodiment, the dimension K of the gasket25ranges from 0.33 inches to 0.43 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension K of the gasket25is 0.38 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension L of the gasket25ranges from 0.05 inches to 0.15 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension L of the gasket25is 0.10 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension M of the gasket25ranges from 0.075 inches to 0.095 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension M of the gasket25ranges from 0.08 inches to 0.09 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension M of the gasket25is 0.08 inches.

In an example embodiment, the angle N of the gasket25ranges from 85 degrees to 115 degrees. In an example embodiment, the angle N of the gasket25ranges from 90 degrees to 110 degrees. In an example embodiment, the angle N of the gasket25is 90 degrees.

In an example embodiment, the dimension O of the gasket25ranges from 0.675 inches to 0.78 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension O of the gasket25ranges from 0.725 inches to 0.73 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension O of the gasket25is 0.73 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension A of the gasket200ranges from 0.25 inches to 0.45 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension A of the gasket200ranges from 0.30 inches to 0.40 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension A of the gasket200is 0.40 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension B of the gasket200ranges from 0.35 inches to 0.775 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension B of the gasket200ranges from 0.40 inches to 0.725 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension B of the gasket200is 0.725 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension D of the gasket200ranges from 0.13 inches to 0.23 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension D of the gasket200is 0.18 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension E of the gasket200ranges from 0.38 inches to 0.49 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension E of the gasket200ranges from 0.43 inches to 0.44 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension E of the gasket200is 0.43 inches.

In an example embodiment, the angle F of the gasket200ranges from 40 degrees to 50 degrees. In an example embodiment, the angle F of the gasket200is 45 degrees.

In an example embodiment, the dimension G of the gasket200ranges from 0.05 inches to 0.09 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension G of the gasket200ranges from 0.06 inches to 0.08 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension G of the gasket200is 0.06 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension H of the gasket200ranges from 0.25 inches to 0.40 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension H of the gasket200ranges from 0.30 inches to 0.35 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension H of the gasket200is 0.35 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension I of the gasket200ranges from 0.20 inches to 0.35 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension I of the gasket200ranges from 0.25 inches to 0.30 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension I of the gasket200is 0.25 inches.

In an example embodiment, the angle J of the gasket200ranges from 15 degrees to 25 degrees. In an example embodiment, the angle J of the gasket200is 20 degrees.

In an example embodiment, the dimension K of the gasket200ranges from 0.33 inches to 0.43 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension K of the gasket200is 0.38 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension L of the gasket200ranges from 0.05 inches to 0.15 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension L of the gasket200is 0.10 inches.

In an example embodiment, the dimension M of the gasket200ranges from 0.075 inches to 0.095 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension M of the gasket200ranges from 0.08 inches to 0.09 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension M of the gasket200is 0.09 inches.

In an example embodiment, the angle N of the gasket200ranges from 85 degrees to 115 degrees. In an example embodiment, the angle N of the gasket200ranges from 90 degrees to 110 degrees. In an example embodiment, the angle N of the gasket200is 110 degrees.

In an example embodiment, the dimension O of the gasket200ranges from 0.675 inches to 0.78 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension O of the gasket200ranges from 0.725 inches to 0.73 inches. In an example embodiment, the dimension O of the gasket200is 0.725 inches.

The present disclosure introduces a gasket adapted to be a part of a mechanical joint, the gasket including a ring-shaped body forming an opening, wherein the opening extends between a first end of the ring-shaped body and an opposing second end of the ring-shaped body; wherein the ring-shaped body has an inner surface adapted to engage a pipe; wherein the ring-shaped body has an outer surface that opposes the inner surface; wherein a first plurality of protrusions is formed on the body; and wherein the first plurality of protrusions is formed by the inner surface and extends toward a center of the opening. In one or more embodiments, the ring-shaped body forms an uninterrupted continuous ring. In one or more embodiments, a first protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions is spaced from the first end and the second end; and a second protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions is spaced from the first end and the second end. In one or more embodiments, each of the first protrusion and the second protrusion is V-shaped. In one or more embodiments, a second plurality of protrusions is formed on the body; and the second plurality of protrusions is formed by the outer surface and extends away from the opening. In one or more embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions has a first size; and the second plurality of protrusions has a second size that is different from the first size. In one or more embodiments, a first protrusion of the second plurality of protrusions is spaced from the first end and the second end; and a second protrusion of the second plurality of protrusions is spaced from the first end and the second end. In one or more embodiments, a portion of the outer surface is angled relative to the inner surface; and the second plurality of protrusions is located within the portion of the outer surface that is angled relative to the inner surface such that the second plurality of protrusions is also angled relative to the first plurality of protrusions.

The present disclosure also introduces a gasket adapted to be a part of a mechanical joint, the gasket including a ring-shaped body forming an opening, wherein the opening extends between a first end of the ring-shaped body and an opposing second end of the ring-shaped body; wherein the ring-shaped body has an inner surface adapted to engage a pipe; wherein the ring-shaped body has an outer surface that opposes the inner surface; wherein a first plurality of protrusions is formed on the body; and wherein the first plurality of protrusions is formed by the outer surface and extends away from a center of the opening. In one or more embodiments, the ring-shaped body forms an uninterrupted continuous ring. In one or more embodiments, a first protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions is spaced from the first end and the second end; and a second protrusion of the first plurality of protrusions is spaced from the first end and the second end. In one or more embodiments, each of the first protrusion and the second protrusion is V-shaped. In one or more embodiments, a second plurality of protrusions is formed on the body; and the second plurality of protrusions is formed by the inner surface and extends toward the center of the opening. In one or more embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions has a first size; and the second plurality of protrusions has a second size that is different from the first size. In one or more embodiments, a portion of the outer surface is angled relative to the inner surface; and the first plurality of protrusions is located within the portion of the outer surface that is angled relative to the inner surface such that the first plurality of protrusions is also angled relative to the second plurality of protrusions.

The present disclosure also introduces a mechanical joint, which includes a pipe; a bell; and a gasket engaging the pipe and the bell; wherein the gasket comprises a ring-shaped body; wherein the ring-shaped body has an inner surface engaging the pipe; wherein the ring-shaped body has an outer surface engaging the bell; wherein a first plurality of protrusions is formed by the inner surface and extends toward the pipe; and wherein a second plurality of protrusions is formed by the outer surface and extends towards the bell. In one or more embodiments, the first plurality of protrusions has a first size; and the second plurality of protrusions has a second size that is different from the first size. In one or more embodiments, a portion of the outer surface is angled relative to the inner surface; and the second plurality of protrusions is located within the portion of the outer surface that is angled relative to the inner surface such that the second plurality of protrusions is also angled relative to the first plurality of protrusions. In one or more embodiments, each of the first plurality of protrusions and the second plurality of protrusions is V-shaped. In one or more embodiments, an external surface of the pipe includes a series of channels between bumps; and wherein the first plurality of protrusions engages the series of channels to seal the gasket to the pipe.

It is understood that variations may be made in the foregoing without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

In one or more embodiments, the elements and teachings of the various embodiments may be combined in whole or in part in some or all of the embodiments. In addition, one or more of the elements and teachings of the various embodiments may be omitted, at least in part, and/or combined, at least in part, with one or more of the other elements and teachings of the various embodiments.

Although several embodiments have been described in detail above, the embodiments described are illustrative only and are not limiting, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many other modifications, changes and/or substitutions are possible in the embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the present disclosure. Accordingly, all such modifications, changes, and/or substitutions are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure as defined in the following claims. In the claims, any means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents, but also equivalent structures. Moreover, it is the express intention of the applicant not to invoke 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) for any limitations of any of the claims herein, except for those in which the claim expressly uses the word “means” together with an associated function.