Patent Publication Number: US-2021172551-A1

Title: Pipe connector with annular communication

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 16/673,022 filed on Nov. 4, 2019, the contents of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. 
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The embodiments described herein relate to mechanical couplings and coupling elements for joining pipes, pipe components, flexible pipes, pipelines, midline fittings, midline couplings, end-fittings, intermediate pipe and piping elements to other pipes, flexible pipes, pipelines, midline fittings, midline couplings, end-fittings, intermediate pipe, pipe components, piping elements and fixtures to transport fluids under pressure, fluids including hydrocarbons, water, mud, natural gas, and other fluids utilized in the oil-well services industry. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     A pipe connector can be used to connect pipes to form a pipeline. Pipe connectors are useful for connecting unbonded flexible pipe, which can be used to transmit fluid such as a production fluid like oil or gas from one location to another. Such flexible pipe can be used for offshore purposes as well as onshore or over land purposes. 
     One or more embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus and method for securing one flexible pipe to another flexible pipe in an end-to-end configuration, or another pipe component. One or more embodiments of the present invention relate to an apparatus and method for joining lengths of flexible pipe together to form a pipeline whereby liquids and gasses can be transported within a central bore region. One or more embodiments also relate to an apparatus and method for joining lengths of flexible pipe wherein liquids and/or gasses disposed in a separate annular region formed between one or more layers of the pipes disposed around the central bore of the pipe can be transported along a length of pipe safely without damaging the pipeline. One or more embodiments of the present invention utilizes a connector that can be lockingly connected to ends of two lengths of pipe such that respective central bores and annulus regions of both lengths are communicatively connected to one another via the connector such that fluids, gasses and liquids can be transmitted through the lengths of pipe under pressure while maintaining the integrity of the fluid pathways formed in the bore and annulus regions of the lengths of pipe. 
     There are many uses for unbonded flexible pipe in the oil well services industry and other industries wherein there is a need to transport fluids under high pressure, both across land and at depths underneath the ground and at sea. For example, hydrocarbons, such as oil or gas, and other production fluids are produced under pressure and transported across distances from one location to another using flexible pipe. Such flexible pipe can be used for offshore purposes as well as onshore or over land purposes. Typically, such flexible pipe includes an inner fluid retaining layer, often referred to as a liner or barrier layer, which helps prevent fluid flow radially outwards from the bore. This layer has an inner diameter defining a bore along which fluid can flow. One or more armor layers are typically formed around the fluid retaining layer. The armor layer or layers are typically, but not exclusively, formed by winding steel strip about the fluid retaining layer. The armor layer or layers provide pressure reinforcement to prevent burst through of the inner fluid retention layer as well as preventing collapse of the flexible pipe due to external pressures. 
     Additionally, the armor layer can provide tensile strength to resist longitudinal forces of either extension or contraction on the flexible pipe. The flexible pipe also typically includes an outer sheath which is arranged to prevent ingress of fluid and/or contaminants from an environment where the flexible pipe is located. 
     The region between the outer sheath and inner fluid retaining layer defines an annulus region extending along the length of the portion of flexible pipe in which the armor layer or layers are located. One problem associated with the transportation of fluids across distances is that more than one length of pipe can be required to deliver the fluid to the intended destination. Thus, various types of pipe connectors and other pipe components are integrated along the pipeline to perform various functions and operate to connect the lengths of pipe to other lengths of pipe, mid-line fittings and end fittings. However, as the fluid is under pressure, conventional pipe couplings and connectors, utilized to connect lengths of pipe to other lengths of pipe and various mid-line and end fittings, may be negatively impacted due to the stresses of the fluid and forces that act upon the interface between the end of the pipe section and the connector and the interface between connector components utilized to effect the connection. 
     Pipelines are also being put in service for longer periods of time as the production of hydrocarbons requires exploration in locations that are increasingly difficult to reach. During production of hydrocarbons or the transportation of fluids across the ground, the duties of a pipeline technician include the coupling and decoupling of pipeline sections. 
     Additionally, gas, which originates from the transported fluid, can permeate through the fluid retaining layer and collects in the annular region. Also, where the flexible pipe is utilized in an environment including undesirable gas, such gas can permeate through the outer sheath and likewise be trapped in the annulus region. These trapped gases can collect in the annulus of the pipe and, on occasion, can degrade performance of the flexible pipe over time. For this reason, gases trapped in the annulus of un-bonded flexible pipe require venting. 
     SUMMARY 
     One or more embodiments of the present invention concern pipe connectors and couplings for joining a plurality of pipe segments together to form a pipeline. One or more other embodiments concern end-line pipe connectors for joining a pipeline and pipeline segments to other nodes disposed in a pipeline. One or more embodiments include a pipe connector including a first pipe compression connector segment and a second pipe compression connector segment. In one or more embodiments, the first and second pipe connector segments comprise a middle section including first and second opposing sides, first and second opposing ends, an inner surface, and an outer surface. In one or more embodiments, the inner surface forms a cavity with a radius of curvature configured to engage an outer diameter of an end of a pipe. In one or more embodiments, a first flange disposed on and extending away from the first side has a number of holes extending therethrough. In one or more embodiments, a second flange disposed on and extending away from the second side has a number of holes extending therethrough. In one or more embodiments, an inner compression connector, disposed within the cavity of the first and second pipe connector segments, includes a first end, a second end, an inner surface and an outer surface. In one or more embodiments, the inner surface of the inner compression connector forms a central bore, and the outer surface of the inner compression connector is configured to engage an inner diameter of an end of a pipe. In one or more embodiments, a plurality of vertical compression bolts engages the holes extending through the first and second flanges to connect the first and second flanges. In one or more embodiments, an outer bore is formed between the inner cavity formed within the inner surface of first and second pipe connector segments and the outer surface of the inner compression connector. 
     One or more other embodiments concern midline pipe connectors for joining two pipeline segments to other nodes disposed in a pipeline. One or more embodiments include a third pipe compression connector segment and a fourth pipe compression connector segment. In one or more embodiments, the connected first and second pipe compression connector segments are extricably and interlockingly connected to third and fourth pipe compression connector segments to form a fluid-tight midline pipeline connector. In one or more embodiments, each of the third and fourth pipe connector segments comprise a middle section including first and second opposing sides, first and second opposing ends, an inner surface, and an outer surface. In one or more embodiments, the inner surface of the third and fourth connector segments forms a cavity with a radius of curvature configured to engage an outer diameter of an end of a pipe. In one or more embodiments, a first flange disposed on and extending away from the first side has a number of holes extending therethrough. In one or more embodiments, a second flange disposed on and extending away from the second side has a number of holes extending therethrough. In one or more embodiments, a plurality of vertical compression bolts configured to engage the holes extending through the first and second flanges of the third and fourth connector segments are utilized to connect the first and second flanges of the third and fourth connector segments. In one or more embodiments, a second outer bore is formed between the inner cavity formed within the inner surface of third and fourth pipe connector segments and the outer surface of the inner compression connector. In one or more embodiments, horizontal compression bolts are utilized to extricably and interlockingly connect first and second connected pipe compression connector segments to third and fourth pipe compression connector segments to form a fluid-tight midline pipeline connector. 
     One or more other embodiments concern midline and end-line pipe connectors for joining two pipeline segments and a pipeline or pipeline segment, respectively, to other nodes disposed in a pipeline. In one or more embodiments, the connector provides for the separate communication of fluids within the pipe connector  1 . In one or more embodiments, fluids (e.g., liquids, hydrocarbons or gasses) disposed or trapped within the annulus of a pipeline or a pipeline segment connected to the pipeline are communicated through the fluid-tight and sealingly connected outer bores OB 1  and OB 2  formed in the pipe connector when the connected first and second pipe compression connector segments are extricably and interlockingly connected to third and fourth pipe compression connector segments to form a fluid-tight midline pipeline connector. In one or more embodiments, fluids transported within the inner diameter of a pipeline segments connected to the pipe connector are communicated through the fluid-tight and sealingly connected central bores formed in the pipe connector. In one or more embodiments, the fluids disposed within outer bores formed in the pipe connector and the fluids disposed within central bores in the pipe connector are kept separate from one another when each is disposed within the pipe connector. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is an isometric exploded view of an example of a pipe coupling connector, according to one embodiment of the present invention, shown in a preassembled state; 
         FIG. 2  is a longitudinal sectional view taken at line  2 - 2  of  FIG. 3 ; and 
         FIG. 3  is an isometric view of an example of a pipe coupling connector, according to one embodiment of the present invention, shown in an assembled state. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to connectors used for connecting segments of flexible pipe to one another, another pipe, an end connection, or another fluid transfer node. Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the figures. In one aspect, embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to an apparatus for connecting pipes and pipelines. In other aspects, embodiments disclosed herein relate to a method of assembling the apparatus for connecting pipes. 
     As used herein, the term “coupled” or “coupled to” can indicate establishing either a direct or indirect connection, and is not limited to either unless expressly referenced as such. The term “set” can refer to one or more items. Wherever possible, like or identical reference numerals are used in the figures to identify common, similar or the same elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale and certain features and certain views of the figures can be shown exaggerated in scale for purposes of clarification. Each figure should be viewed in conjunction with the written description. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , an isometric view and a cross-sectional view of a compression coupling fitting that includes a pipe connector  1  according to one or more embodiments of the present invention are shown. Pipe, as understood by those of ordinary skill, can be a tube to convey or transfer any water, gas, oil, or any type of fluid known to those skilled in the art. Pipelines can run onshore and/or through shallow water and extend long distances, such as tens, hundreds or thousands of miles, either above ground or buried a few feet underground (e.g., ranging from about 3 feet to about 6 feet). Bodies of shallow water can include, for example, rivers, lakes or other bodies of water having depths ranging up to 50 meters, up to 100 meters, or up to 150 meters. In yet other embodiments, pipelines can run offshore, for example through depths of greater than 150 meters, such as greater than 500 meters or greater than 1,000 meters. 
     Methods according to embodiments of the present disclosure can include providing a length of pipe that can be used for transporting fluids or gas. The pipe can include a housing defining a central bore extending the length of the pipe, through which transported fluids can be pumped. The housing can further have an annulus formed between the thickness of the housing that can form a conduit in one or more embodiments of the present invention. As referred to herein, conduits formed or disposed “between” or “within” the thickness of a housing are conduits that are not exposed to the inner or outermost surface of the housing, but rather, are covered or beneath the inner and outermost surfaces of the housing. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , a pipe  40  can include a conduit  40   a  that includes a space in which, for example, air or another gas or liquid is flowed therethrough, or trapped or held therein. Further, the pipeline can include many pipe segments that are connected together with pipe joints and/or connectors, including connectors described in one or more embodiments of the present invention, where the pipe segments, pipe joints and/or connectors are alternatingly connected in an end-to-end configuration. 
     The pipe  40  can be made of any type of materials including without limitation plastics, metals, a combination thereof, composites (e.g., fiber reinforced composites), or other materials known in the art. One type of pipe  40  is flexible pipe, which is used frequently in many applications, including without limitation, both onshore and offshore oil and gas applications. 
     Flexible pipe, or also referred to as spoolable pipe, can include Bonded or Unbonded Flexible Pipe, Flexible Composite Pipe (FCP), Thermoplastic Composite Pipe (TCP), or Reinforced Thermoplastic Pipe (RTP). FCP or RTP pipe can itself be generally composed of several layers. In one or more embodiments, a flexible pipe can include a thermoplastic liner or internal pressure sheath having a reinforcement layer and a thermoplastic outer cover layer. In one or more embodiments, the thermoplastic may be high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Thus, flexible pipe can include different layers that can be made of a variety of materials and also may provide corrosion resistance. For example, in one or more embodiments, the pipe can have a corrosion protection outer cover layer that is disposed over another layer of steel reinforcement. In this embodiment, helically wound steel strips can be placed over a liner made of thermoplastic pipe. Flexible pipe can be designed to handle a variety of pressures, temperatures, and conveyed fluids. Further, flexible pipe can offer unique features and benefits versus steel/carbon steel pipe lines in the area of corrosion resistance, flexibility, installation speed and re-usability. Another type of flexible or spoolable pipe is coiled tubing, which can be made of steel and have a corrosion protection shield layer. 
     In one or more embodiments, the pipe connector  1  generally includes pipe connector compression segments  2  and  4 , that can be extricably and interlockingly connected to one another via vertical compression bolts  26   a  engaging side flanges disposed on and integrally formed with each of the connector segments  2  and  4 , and pipe connector compression segments  6  and  8  that similarly can be extricably and interlockingly connected to one another via vertical compression bolts  26   a  engaging side flanges disposed on and integrally formed with each of the connector segments  6  and  8 . As disclosed herein, once the connector segments  2  and  4  are connected to one another and the connector segments  6  and  8  are connected to one another, the connected segments  2 , 4  and connected segments  6 , 8  can also be extricably and interlockingly connected to one another via horizontal compression bolts  26   b  engaging top and bottom flanges, disposed on the top and bottom sides of and integrally formed with the connector segments  2  and  4  and the connector segments  6  and  8 , respectively, and a tongue and groove connection that is disclosed herein with respect to  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 . In one or more embodiments, a gasket (not shown) is mounted on one or more of planar surfaces  30   g  and one or more of planar surfaces  30   h  of connector segments  2  and  4  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the side flanges formed on connector segments  2  and  4  when the segments  2  and  4  are extricably and interlockingly connected to one another. Similarly, in one or more embodiments, a gasket (not shown) is mounted on one or more of planar surfaces  70   g  and one or more of planar surfaces  70   h  of connector segments  6  and  8  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the side flanges formed on connector segments  6  and  8  when the segments  6  and  8  are extricably and interlockingly connected to one another. In these embodiments, the gasket is configured to operate and perform in the environment (e.g., temperature range, pressure range, and/or chemical exposure) in which the specific embodiment of the pipe connector is being utilized. In one or more embodiments, the gasket can take the form of or include an O-ring, a coupling, a sleeve or some other fluid-tight seal that works for its intended purpose. 
     Each of the connector segments  2 ,  4 ,  6  and  8  can be formed of stainless steel, carbon steel, malleable iron, ductile iron, or a combination of other suitable metals. For example, each of the connector segments  2 ,  4 ,  6  and  8  can be formed of ductile iron conforming to ASTM A536, Grade 65-45-12, or ductile iron conforming to ASTM A395, Grade 65-45-15. In these or other embodiments of the present invention, the connector segments  2  and  4  can be coated, hot-dipped galvanized, or coated with another suitable material using a process that protects each of the connector segments. Each of the bolts  26  can be formed of stainless steel, carbon steel, iron or some other suitable material. For example, the bolts  26  are formed of carbon steel meeting the mechanical property requirements of ASTM A449 (imperial), or carbon steel meeting the mechanical property requirements of ASTM A563 Grade B. In other embodiments, track bolts and heavy hex nuts that are zinc electroplated per ASTM B633 ZN/FE5, finish Type III (imperial size) or Type II (metric size), are utilized. In other embodiments, the bolts  26   a  and  26   b  are formed of stainless steel meeting the mechanical property requirements of ASTM F593, Group 2 (316 stainless steel), condition CW. In other embodiments, the nuts  90   a  and  90   b  are formed of stainless steel, meeting the mechanical property requirements of ASTM F594, Group 2 (316 stainless steel), condition CW, with galling reducing coating. In other embodiments, the connector segments  2 ,  4 ,  6  and  8  can be formed of high-density plastic or plastic composites. For example, in one or more embodiments, the connector segments  2 ,  4 ,  6  and  8  are formed of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and/or high-density polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT). 
     According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, the pipe connector  1  engages the flexible pipe segments  40  to compress the connector segments  2 ,  4 ,  6  and  8  against the pipe segments to creates interlocking and fluid-tight connections between the pipe segments such that fluids disposed or trapped within the annulus of pipeline segments  40  are kept separate and apart from the fluids transported within the inner diameter of pipeline segments  40  as the fluids traverse the central bore  58  formed within an inner compression connector  50  and the outer bores formed within the connected segments  2  and  4  and the connected segments  6  and  8 , as disclosed herein. The inner compression connector  50  provides the pipe connector  1  the advantage of providing a pathway through the pipe connector  1  through which fluids, such as trapped gasses and liquids or other fluids disposed within the annulus of a pipeline or pipe segment, can flow such that the liquids disposed in the annulus of the pipe can be ejected in a controlled manner. This configuration provides protection to the pipeline and provides for the integrity of the transported hydrocarbons and other fluids within the pipeline. The pipe connector  1  also provides stability to a flexible pipeline as the components of the pipe connector  1  are made of solid and durable materials that one having skill in the art will appreciate are proven to perform under conditions and within environments wherein flexible pipelines are used to transport hydrocarbons. Utilizing one or more pipe connectors disclosed in one or more embodiments within a pipeline protects against unwanted deformation and lends reliability to the pipelines structure as shorter pipe segments  40  can be utilized in the pipeline as the pipe connectors provide fluid-tight couplings between the pipeline segments. Other advantages are known and will be made clear to persons having skill in the art pursuant to the disclosure herein. 
     One or more embodiments of the connector segments  2  and  4  will now be described with reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 . Each of the connector segments  2  and  4  generally include a middle section  30 , peripheral side flanges  14   a  and  14   b , and a peripheral middle flange  34 , respectively. As illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the middle section  30  included in each of the connector segments  2  and  4  includes an inner surface  30   a , an outer surface  30   b , a first side  30   c , a second side  30   d , a third side  30   j , a fourth side  30   k , and planar surfaces  30   g  and  30   h  that extend between the inner surface  30   a  and the outer surface  30   b . The middle section  30  includes side walls  30   e  that are formed in the outer surface  30   b  and border the planar surfaces  30   g  and  30   h . The middle section  30  also includes side walls  30   f  that are formed in the inner surface  30   a  and border the planar surfaces  30   g  and  30   h . A planar surface  30   m , that extends in a radial direction that is generally perpendicular to the inner surface  30   a  and extends in a circumferential direction and ends at planar surfaces  30   g  and  30   h , is formed between side walls  30   e  and side walls  30   f . The outer surface  30   a  has a radius of curvature such that the middle section  30  will surround at least a portion of an end of a pipe segment  40 . The connector segments  2  and  4  each include a middle flange  34  that is integrally formed with and extends outwardly from the outer surface  30   b . Middle flanges  34  each contain a number of holes  32  through which an equal number of threaded fasteners, such as horizontal compression bolts  26   b  (e.g., compression bolts, screws, suitable bolt/nut assemblies, etc.), are extended for extricably and interlockingly connecting additional connector segments  6  and  8  to connector segments  2  and  4 , respectively, as disclosed herein. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the inner surface  30   a  also has a radius of curvature such that a cavity C 1 , that is configured to surround at least a portion of an end of a pipe segment  40 , is formed. A series of serrated edges  30   i  are formed in the inner surface  30   a  and extend a distance into the cavity C 1  formed by inner surface  30   a . As one having ordinary skill will appreciate, the dimensions of the connectors segments  2  and  4 , and the distance in which the series of serrated edges  30   i  extend into the cavity cavity C 1  can vary in one or more embodiments of the present invention depending upon the dimensions of the pipe segments that will be coupled to one another utilizing one or more embodiments. As shown in  FIG. 1 , a ledge  36  is formed on the inner surface  30   a . The ledge  36  extends in a circumferential direction around the entire cavity C 1  and ends at both sides thereof at the planar surfaces  30   g  and  30   h . In one or more embodiments, the ledge  36  further includes a height to define a circumferential face  36   a  that extends in a radial direction that is generally perpendicular to the cavity C 1  and faces the first side  30   c  of connector segments  2  and  4 . The ledge  36  is positioned within cavity C 1  at a depth that is suitable to engage an end of the pipe segment  40 , when the pipe segment  40  is inserted into the cavity C 1  of inner surface  30   a , and help prevent the end of the pipe segment  40  from advancing past the ledge  36  further into the cavity C 1 . 
     In one or more embodiments, a vent assurance ring  56  is disposed on the circumferential face  36   a  of connector segments  2  and  4 , as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . The vent assurance ring  56  is configured as a solid disk that includes pre-machined holes  56   a  that extend through one face of the disk to the other face of the disk such that gasses and other liquids that are disposed within the annulus of the pipe segments  40  can pass through the vent assurance ring  56  via the holes. The vent assurance ring  56  is configured to seat against the circumferential face  36   a  of the ledge  36  formed on the inner surface  30   a  of connector segments  2  and  4 , and extend in an axial direction such that, when the connector segments  2  and  4  are interlockingly connected to one another, the vent assurance ring  56  also seats against the circumferential face  60   a  of ledge  60  formed on the outer surface of inner compression connector  52 , as discussed herein. As one having skill in the art appreciates with the benefit of the teachings provided herein, when the connectors segments  2  and  4  are interlockingly connected to one another to engage the end of a pipe segment  40 , the vent assurance ring  56  is configured such that the end of the pipe segment  40  abuts the vent assurance ring  56 . Thus, the vent assurance ring  56  allows for the annular communication of gasses and other fluids through the pipe connector  1 . In one or more embodiments, the vent assurance ring is manufactured from stainless steel. In other embodiments, the vent assurance is manufactured from a hard density plastic material. In one or more embodiments, the vent assurance ring is ⅛ of an inch thick in the axial direction. One having skill in the art with the benefit of the teachings herein will appreciate that other dimensions and configurations of the vent assurance ring can be utilized in one or more other embodiments. One having skill in the art with the benefit of the teachings herein will appreciate that although the holes  56   a  are illustrated as being of a specific number, of a specific shape (e.g., round), and disposed at a specific distance away from one another, a different number of holes, holes of different shapes and sizes, and holes spaced further or nearer apart to one another can be utilized to effect the intended purposes of the holes  56   a.    
     In one or more embodiments other embodiments, a gasket  92 , shown in  FIG. 2 , can be mounted on the circumferential face  36   a  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the vent assurance ring  56  and the ledge  36  when the vent assurance ring  56  is seated on the gasket  92 . Similarly, a gasket  94  can be mounted on circumferential face  60   a  of ledge  60  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the vent assurance ring  56  and the ledge  36  when the vent assurance ring  56  is seated on the gasket  94 . In these embodiments, the gaskets  92  and  94  are configured to operate and perform in the environment (e.g., temperature range, pressure range, and/or chemical exposure) in which the specific embodiment of the pipe connector is being utilized. In one or more embodiments, the gaskets  92  and  94  can take the form of or include an O-ring, a coupling, a sleeve or some other fluid-tight seal that works for its intended purpose. 
     The series of serrated edges  30   i  similarly extend in a circumferential direction around the entire cavity C 1  and end at both sides thereof at the planar surfaces  30   g  and  30   h . In one or more embodiments, the ledge  36  can include different configurations than what is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . For example, in one or more embodiments, the ledge  36  extends in a circumferential direction partially around the cavity C 1 . In other embodiments, a series of ledges  36  extend in a circumferential direction partially around the cavity C 1 . In one or more embodiments, the series of serrated edges  30   i  can include different configurations than what is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . For example, in one or more embodiments, the series of serrated edges  30   i  extends in a circumferential direction partially around the cavity C 1 . In other embodiments, a plurality of series of serrated edges  30   i  extend in a circumferential direction partially around the cavity C 1 . 
     For each of the connector segments  2  and  4 , the middle section  30  also includes a peripheral groove  38 , formed on the second side  30   d  of the middle section  30  between side walls  30   e  and  30   f , that extends a depth within planar surface  30   m , and extends in a circumferential direction around the cavity C 1  and ends at both sides thereof at the planar surfaces  30   g  and  30   h . The peripheral groove  38  formed in connector segments  2  and  4  is configured to sealingly mate with a peripheral extension  80  formed in opposing pipe connector segments  6  and  8 , respectively, as disclosed herein for forming a fluid-tight seal. In one or more embodiments, a gasket  24  is disposed within the groove  38  and seated on the floor of groove  38  disposed at a depth within planar surface  30   m . The gasket  24  is configured to assist in forming a fluid-tight seal between the connected pipe connectors segments  2 , 4  and the connected pipe connectors segments  6 , 8  when the peripheral extension  80  of segments  6  and  8  engages the groove  38  of connector segments  2  and  4 . One having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the gasket  24  is configured to operate and perform in the environment (e.g., temperature range, pressure range, and/or chemical exposure) in which the specific embodiment of the pipe connector is being utilized. In one or more embodiments, the gasket  24  can take the form of or include an O-ring, a coupling, a sleeve or some other fluid-tight seal that works for its intended purpose. In one or more embodiments, the inner surface  30   a  of the first side  30   c  is tapered outwardly to assist the end of a pipe  40  during insertion of the pipe  40  into the cavity C 1  defined by the inner surface  30   a  of the connector segments  2  and  4 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  with respect to connector segments  2  and  4 , peripheral side flanges  14   a  and  14   b  are integrally formed with and extend in an outwardly direction from the third side  30   j  and the fourth side  30   k , respectively, of the middle section  30 . A number of holes  22  through which an equal number of threaded fasteners, such as vertical compression bolts  26   a  (e.g., compression bolts, screws, suitable bolt/nut assemblies, etc.), are extended are formed in peripheral flanges  14   a  and  14   b  for extricably and interlockingly connecting the segment  2  to the segment  4 . In one or more embodiments, as is seen for example with respect to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , two holes  22  are formed in each flange  14   a  and  14   b . In other embodiments, 1, 3, 4, 5 or another number of holes are formed in each flange  14   a  and  14   b , depending upon the dimensions of the flange, the size of the circumferential size of the pipe  40 , the pressure of the fluid being transported within the pipe  40 , and the required specifications of the connection formed via the pipe connector  1 . 
     One or more embodiments of the pipe connector segments  6  and  8  will now be described with reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 . Each of the segments  6  and  8  generally include a middle section  70 , peripheral side flanges  66   a  and  66   b , and a middle flange  74 , respectively. As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the middle section  70  included in each of the segments  6  and  8  includes an inner surface  70   a , an outer surface  70   b , a first side  70   c , a second side  70   d , a third side  70   j , a fourth side  70   k , and planar surfaces  70   g  and  70   h  that extend between the inner surface  70   a  and the outer surface  70   b . The middle section  70  includes side walls  70   e  that are formed in the outer surface  70   b  and border the planar surfaces  70   g  and  70   h . The middle section  70  also includes side walls  70   f  that are formed in the inner surface  70   a  and border the planar surfaces  70   g  and  70   h . A planar surface  70   m , that extends in a radial direction that is generally perpendicular to the inner surface  70   a  and extends in a circumferential direction and ends at planar surfaces  70   g  and  70   h , is formed between side walls  70   e  and side walls  70   f . The outer surface  70   a  has a radius of curvature such that the middle section  70  will surround at least a portion of an end of a pipe segment  40 . The connector segments  6  and  8  each include a middle flange  74  that is integrally formed with and extends outwardly from the outer surface  70   b . Middle flanges  74  each contain a number of holes  76  through which an equal number of threaded fasteners, such as horizontal compression bolts  26   b  (e.g., compression bolts, screws, suitable bolt/nut assemblies, etc.), are extended for extricably and interlockingly connecting connector segments  6  and  8  to connector segments  2  and  4 , respectively, as disclosed herein. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the inner surface  70   a  also has a radius of curvature such that a cavity C 2 , that is configured to surround at least a portion of an end of a pipe segment  40 , is formed. A series of serrated edges  70   i  are formed in the inner surface  70   a  and extend a suitable distance into the cavity C 2  formed by inner surface  70   a . As shown in  FIG. 1 , a ledge  78  is formed on the inner surface  70   a . The ledge  78  extends in a circumferential direction around the entire cavity C 2  and ends at both sides thereof at the planar surfaces  70   g  and  70   h . In one or more embodiments, the ledge  78  further includes a height to define a circumferential face  78   a  that extends in a radial direction that is generally perpendicular to the cavity C 2  and faces the second side  70   d  of connector segments  6  and  8 . The ledge  78  is positioned within cavity C 2  at a depth that is suitable to engage an end of the pipe segment  40 , when the pipe segment  40  is inserted into the cavity C 2  of inner surface  70   a , and help prevent the end of the pipe segment  40  from advancing past the ledge  78  further into the cavity C 2 . 
     In one or more embodiments, a vent assurance ring  100  is disposed on the circumferential face  78   a  of connector segments  6  and  8 , as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . Similar to the vent assurance ring  56 , the vent assurance ring  100  is configured as a solid disk that includes pre-machined holes  100   a  that extend through one face of the disk to the other face of the disk such that gasses and other liquids that are disposed within the annulus of the pipe segments  40  can pass through the vent assurance ring  100  via the holes. The vent assurance ring  100  is configured to seat against the circumferential face  78   a  of the ledge  78  formed on the inner surface  70   a  of connector segments  6  and  8 , and extend in an axial direction such that, when the connector segments  6  and  8  are interlockingly connected to one another, the vent assurance ring  96  also seats against the circumferential face  68   a  of ledge  68  formed on the outer surface  54   b  of inner compression connector  54 , as discussed herein. As one having skill in the art appreciates with the benefit of the teachings provided herein, when the connectors segments  6  and  8  are interlockingly connected to one another to engage the end of a pipe segment  40 , the vent assurance ring  100  is configured such that the end of the pipe segment  40  abuts the vent assurance ring  100 . Thus, the vent assurance ring  100  allows for the annular communication of gasses and other fluids through the pipe connector  1 . In one or more embodiments, the vent assurance ring is manufactured from stainless steel. In other embodiments, the vent assurance is manufactured from a hard density plastic material. In one or more embodiments, the vent assurance ring is ⅛ of an inch thick in the axial direction. One having skill in the art with the benefit of the teachings herein will appreciate that other dimensions and configurations of the vent assurance ring can be utilized in one or more other embodiments. One having skill in the art with the benefit of the teachings herein will appreciate that although the holes  100   a  are illustrated as being of a specific number, of a specific shape (e.g., round), and disposed at a specific distance away from one another, a different number of holes, holes of different shapes and sizes, and holes spaced further or nearer apart to one another can be utilized to effect the intended purposes of the holes  100   a.    
     In one or more embodiments other embodiments, a gasket  96 , shown in  FIG. 2 , can be mounted on the circumferential face  78   a  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the vent assurance ring  100  and the ledge  78  when the vent assurance ring  100  is seated on the gasket. Similarly, a gasket  98  can be mounted on circumferential face  68   a  of ledge  68  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the vent assurance ring  100  and the ledge  68  when the vent assurance ring  100  is seated on the gasket  98 . In these embodiments, the gaskets  96  and  98  are configured to operate and perform in the environment (e.g., temperature range, pressure range, and/or chemical exposure) in which the specific embodiment of the pipe connector is being utilized. In one or more embodiments, the gaskets  96  and  98  can take the form of or include an O-ring, a coupling, a sleeve or some other fluid-tight seal that works for its intended purpose. 
     The series of serrated edges  70   i  similarly extend in a circumferential direction around the entire cavity C 2  and end at both sides thereof at the planar surfaces  70   g  and  70   h . In one or more embodiments, the ledge  36  can include different configurations than what is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . For example, in one or more embodiments, the ledge  78  extends in a circumferential direction partially around the cavity C 2 . In other embodiments, a series of ledges  78  extend in a circumferential direction partially around the cavity C 2 . In one or more embodiments, the series of serrated edges  70   i  can include different configurations than what is illustrated in  FIG. 1 . For example, in one or more embodiments, the series of serrated edges  70   i  extends in a circumferential direction partially around the cavity C 2 . In other embodiments, a plurality of series of serrated edges  70   i  extend in a circumferential direction partially around the cavity C 2 . 
     For each of the connector segments  6  and  8 , the middle section  70  also includes a peripheral extension  80 , formed on the first side  70   c  of the middle section  70  between side walls  70   e  and  70   f , that is integrally formed with and extends in an outwardly direction from the planar surface  70   m . The peripheral extension  80  also extends in a circumferential direction around the cavity C 2  and ends at both sides thereof at the planar surfaces  70   g  and  70   h . The peripheral extensions  80  formed on connector segments  6  and  8  are configured to extend into the peripheral grooves  38  formed within connector segments  2  and  4  to sealingly connect the connectors segments  6  and  8  to opposing pipe connector segments  2  and  4 , respectively, and form a fluid-tight seal between the connected segments  2  and  4  and the connected segments  6  and  8 , as disclosed herein. In one or more embodiments, the inner surface  70   a  of the second side  70   d  is tapered outwardly to assist the end of a pipe  40  during insertion of the pipe  40  into the cavity C 2  defined by the inner surface  70   a  of the connector segments  6  and  8 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , peripheral side flanges  66   a  and  66   b  are integrally formed with and extend in an outwardly direction from the third side  70   j  and the fourth side  70   k , respectively, of the middle section  70 . A number of holes  82  through which an equal number of threaded fasteners, such as vertical compression bolts  26   a  (e.g., compression bolts, screws, suitable bolt/nut assemblies, etc.), are extended are formed in peripheral flanges  66   a  and  66   b  for extricably and interlockingly connecting the segment  6  to the segment  8 . In one or more embodiments, as is seen for example with respect to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , two holes  82  are formed in each flange  66   a  and  66   b . In other embodiments, 1, 3, 4, 5 or another number of holes are formed in each flange  66   a  and  66   b , depending upon the dimensions of the flange, the size of the circumferential size of the pipe  40 , the pressure of the fluid being transported within the pipe  40 , and the required specifications of the connection formed via the pipe connector  1 . 
     Pipe connector  1  also includes an inner compression connector  50 . In one or more embodiments, as shown with respect to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the inner compression connector  50  includes separate substantially cylindrical first and second components  52  and  54 , respectively, that are connected to one another when the pipe connector segments  2  and  4  are extricably and interlockingly connected to pipe connector segments  6  and  8  to form the pipe connector  1 . In one or more other embodiments, the inner compression connector  50  is a single substantially cylindrical component that is permanently connected to one of the segments  2 ,  4 ,  6  or  8 . In one or more additional embodiments, the inner compression connector  50  is a separate substantially cylindrical component that is inserted within the inner diameter at the ends of two pipeline segments  40  before the end of a pipe  40  is inserted into the cavity C 1  of the pipe connector segments  2  and  4  and the end of another pipe  40  is inserted into the cavity C 2  of the pipe connector segments  6  and  8  to connect the two pipe segments together, as is discussed in more detail herein. As one having ordinary skill will appreciate, the inner compression connector  50  can be made from the same material or combination of materials and manufactured in a similar manner as the connector segments  2 ,  4 ,  6  and  8 , as disclosed herein. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1  of the drawings, one or more embodiments of the inner compression connector  50  will now be described. As one having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, although the inner compression connector  50  is substantially cylindrical and configured to be inserted into the central bore of a pipe and engage the inner surface of the end of a pipe  40 , an isometric view of the inner compression connector  50  components is shown wherein a portion of the inner compression connector  50  is cut away to expose the features of the inner compression connector  50  for the sake of clarity. 
     In one or more embodiments, inner compression connector  50  includes the first inner compression connector component  52  and the second inner compression connector component  54 . First inner compression connector component  52  includes an inner surface  52   a  defining a central bore  58   a , an outer surface  52   b , a first side  52   c  and a second side  52   d . As is shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the inner surface  30   a  of connector segments  2 ,  4  and the outer surface  52   b  of first inner compression connector component  52  form an outer bore OB 1  that is substantially cylindrical and extends the length of cavity C 1  of connector segments  2  and  4  when connector segments  2  and  4  are connected to one another. In one or more embodiments, outer surface  52   b  of first inner compression connector component  52  is tapered inwardly at the first side  52   c  to assist the engagement of the end of a pipe  40  with the first inner compression connector component  52  during insertion of the pipe  40  into the cavity C 1 , defined by the inner surface  30   a  of the connector segments  2  and  4 . A series of serrated edges  52   i  are formed in the outer surface  52   b  of first inner compression connector component  52  and extend circumferentially around the outer surface  52   b  and are disposed between, for example, the first side  52   c  of the inner compression connector component  52  and a ledge  60  formed on the outer surface  52   b . In one or more embodiments, the first inner compression connector component does not include a ledge  60  such that the series of serrated edges  52   i  disposed along the outer surface  52   b  extend to a suitable point before the second end  52   d  of the first inner compression connector component to effect an engagement between the inner bore of a pipe segment  40  and the first inner compression connector component  52 . In one or more embodiments, the first side  52   c  of the inner compression connector  50  is coextensive with the first side  30   c  of connector segments  2  and  4  such that the length of the first inner compression connector component  52  is substantially the same as the length of the connector segments  2  and  4 . In other embodiments, the length of the first inner compression connector component  52  is shorter than the length of the connector segments  2  and  4  such that the first side  52   c  of the inner compression connector  50  is disposed within cavity C 1  when connectors segments  2  and  4  are connected together. The ledge  60  of first inner compression connector component  52  is formed on the outer surface  52   b  between the serrated edges  52   i  and the second side  52   d  of the first inner compression connector component  52 . The ledge  60  extends in a circumferential direction around the entire outer surface of the first inner compression connector component  52 . 
     In one or more embodiments, the ledge  60  further includes a height to define a circumferential face  60   a  that extends in a radial direction that is generally perpendicular to the central bore  58   a  and faces the first side  52   c  of inner compression connector component  52 . The ledge  60  is configured to oppose ledge  36  of connector segments  2  and  4 , when connector segments  2  and  4  are connected to one another, and has a height suitable to engage an end of the pipe segment  40  and help prevent the end of the pipe segment  40  from advancing past the ledge  36  and the ledge  60  further into the outer bore OB 1  when the pipe segment  40  is inserted into the outer bore OB 1 . In one or more embodiments, the vent assurance ring  56  is configured to engage the circumferential face  60   a  of the ledge such that the vent assurance ring  56  will engage the end of a pipe segment  40  when the pipe is inserted into outer bore OB 1 , as discussed herein. In these embodiments, the vent assurance ring  56  also assists in preventing the end of a pipe segment  40  from advancing past the ledge  36  and the ledge  60  further into the outer bore OB 1 . 
     In one or more embodiments, a gasket  94 , shown in  FIG. 2 , similar to the gasket  92  disclosed above with respect to ledge  36 , is mounted on the circumferential face  60   a  of ledge  60  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the vent assurance ring  56  and the ledge  60  when the vent assurance ring  56  is seated on the gasket. In these embodiments, the gasket is configured to operate and perform in the environment (e.g., temperature range, pressure range, and/or chemical exposure) in which the specific embodiment of the pipe connector is being utilized. In one or more embodiments, the gasket can take the form of or include an O-ring, a coupling, a sleeve or some other fluid-tight seal that works for its intended purpose. In one or more embodiments, the series of serrated edges  52   i  extends longitudinally along the outer surface  52   b  of the first inner compression connector component  52  and stops at the ledge  60 . In other embodiments, the series of serrated edges  52   i  stops at a distance before the ledge  60 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a ledge  62  is formed on the inner surface  52   a  of first inner compression connector component  52  and disposed between the first side  52   c  and second side  52   d  of the first inner compression connector component  52 . The ledge  62  extends circumferentially around the entire central bore  58   a  and has a height configured to matingly engage a front face of an edge  84   c  of an inner compression connector extension  84 , discussed in more detail herein, included in the second inner compression connector component  54  when the components  52  and  54  are connected to sealingly and interlockingly engage one another to form a fluid-tight seal. In one or more embodiments, similar to the gasket disclosed above with respect to ledge  36 , a gasket (not shown) is mounted on the ledge  62  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the front face of the edge  84   c  of the inner compression connector extension  84  when the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54  are connected to sealingly and interlockingly engage one another. In these embodiments, the gasket is configured to operate and perform in the environment (e.g., temperature range, pressure range, and/or chemical exposure) in which the specific embodiment of the pipe connector is being utilized. In one or more embodiments, the gasket can take the form of or include an O-ring, a coupling, a sleeve or some other fluid-tight seal that works for its intended purpose. 
     In one or more embodiments, inner surface  52   a  of first inner compression connector component  52  also includes a mating surface  52   e  that extends in an axial direction from the ledge  62  to the inner circumferential edge  52   h  and in a circumferential direction around the entire inner bore  58   a  of the inner compression connector component  52 . The mating surface  52   e  is sized and configured to form a press fit between the mating surface  52   e  and the outer surface  84   b  of the inner compression connector extension  84  included in the second inner compression connector component  54  when the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54  are connected to one another. The first inner compression connector component  52  includes an outer circumferential edge  52   g  and an inner circumferential edge  52   h  disposed on the second side  52   d . In one or more embodiments, a circumferential face  52   f  that has a width  52   t  is formed between the outer circumferential edge  52   g  and an inner circumferential edge  52   h  and extends is a radial direction that is generally perpendicular to the central bore  58   a . In one or more embodiments, the circumferential face  52   f  of the first inner compression connector component  52  is configured to engage an opposing circumferential face  86   f  of the second inner compression connector component when the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54  are matingly connected to one another. In one or more embodiments, a gasket (not shown) is disposed on the circumferential face  52   f  of first inner compression connector component  52  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54  when the components  52  and  54  are matingly connected to one another. In other embodiments, a gasket (not shown) is disposed on the circumferential face  86   f  of second inner compression connector component  54  to form a mechanical fluid-tight seal between the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54 . 
     In one or more embodiments, inner compression connector  50  includes a second inner compression connector component  54 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , second inner compression connector component  54  includes an inner surface  54   a  defining a central bore  58   b , an outer surface  54   b , a first side  54   c  and a second side  54   d . As is shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the inner surface  70   a  of connector segments  6 ,  8  and the outer surface  54   b  of second inner compression connector component  54  form an outer bore OB 2  that is substantially cylindrical and extends the length of cavity C 2  of connector segments  6  and  8  when connector segments  6  and  8  are connected to one another. In one or more embodiments, outer surface  54   b  of second inner compression connector component  54  is tapered inwardly at the first side  54   c  to assist the engagement of the end of a pipe  40  with the second inner compression connector component  54  during insertion of the pipe  40  into the cavity C 2 , defined by the inner surface  70   a  of the connector segments  6  and  8 . A series of serrated edges  54   e  are formed in the outer surface  54   b  of second inner compression connector component  54 . The serrated edges  54   e  extend circumferentially around the outer surface  54   b , and are disposed between the second side  54   d  of the inner compression connector component  54  and a ledge  68  formed on the outer surface  54   b . In one or more embodiments, the second inner compression connector component  54  does not include a ledge  68  such that the series of serrated edges  54   e  will extend along the outer surface  54   b  to a suitable point before the first end  54   c  of the second inner compression connector component  54  to effect an engagement between the inner bore of a pipe segment  40  and the second inner compression connector component  54 . In one or more embodiments, the second side  54   d  of the second inner compression connector component  54  is coextensive with the second side  70   d  of connector segments  6  and  8  such that the length of the second inner compression connector component  54  is substantially the same as the length of the connector segments  6  and  8 . In other embodiments, the length of the second inner compression connector component  54  is shorter than the length of the connector segments  6  and  8  such that the second side  54   d  of the inner compression connector component  54  is disposed within cavity C 2  when the connectors segments  6  and  8  are connected together. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the ledge  68  is formed on the outer surface  54   b  between the series of serrated edges  54   e  and the first side  54   c  of the inner compression connector component  54 . The ledge  68  extends in a circumferential direction around the entire outer surface of the second inner compression connector component  54  and in a longitudinal direction to the first side  54   c  of the inner compression connector component  54  to define an outer circumferential edge  86   b . The inner surface of the second inner compression connector component  54  also extends to the first side  54   c  of the second inner compression connector component  54  to define an inner circumferential edge  86   a . A substantially planar circumferential face  86   f  is defined on the first side  54   c  of the second inner compression connector component  54  between the inner circumferential edge  86   a  and the outer circumferential edge  86   b.    
     In one or more embodiments, the ledge  68  further includes a height to define a circumferential face  68   a  that extends in a radial direction that is generally perpendicular to the central bore  58   b  and faces the second side  54   d  of inner compression connector component  54 . The ledge  68  of second inner compression connector component  54  is configured to oppose ledge  78  of connector segments  6  and  8  and has a height suitable to engage an end of the pipe segment  40  and help prevent the end of the pipe segment  40  from advancing past the ledge  78  and the ledge  68  further into the outer bore OB 2  when the pipe segment  40  is inserted into the outer bore OB 2 . In one or more embodiments, the vent assurance ring  100  is configured to engage the circumferential face  68   a  of the ledge  68  such that the vent assurance ring  100  will engage the end of a pipe segment  40  when the pipe is inserted into outer bore OB 2 , as discussed herein. In these embodiments, the vent assurance ring  100  also assists in preventing the end of a pipe segment  40  from advancing past the ledge  78  and the ledge  68  further into the outer bore OB 2 . 
     In one or more embodiments, similar to the gasket  94  disclosed above with respect to ledge  60 , a gasket  98 , shown in  FIG. 2 , is mounted on the circumferential face  68   a  of the ledge  68  such that a mechanical fluid-tight seal is formed between the vent assurance ring  100  and ledge  68  of second inner compression connector component  54 . In one or more embodiments, the series of serrated edges  54   e  formed in the outer surface  54   b  of second inner compression connector component  54  stops at the ledge  68 . In other embodiments, the series of serrated edges  54   e  stops at a distance before the ledge  68 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the second inner compression connector component  54 , in one or more embodiments, includes a generally cylindrical extension connector  84 . In these one or more embodiments, the cylindrical extension connector  84  is integrally formed with the second inner compression connector component  54  and extends from the inner circumferential edge  86   a  of circumferential edge  86 . The extension connector  84  further includes a length, an inner surface  84   a , an outer surface  84   b , and an edge  84   c  formed between the inner surface  84   a  and the outer surface  84   b . As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the connector extension  84  is configured such that, when the first inner compression connector component  52  is matingly connected to the second inner compression connector component  54 , the outer surface  84   b  of connector extension  84  engages the mating surface  52   e  of the first inner compression connector component  52 , and the edge  84   c  of the connector extension  84  engages the circumferential face  52   f  of ledge  62  of the first inner compression connector component  52 . In one or more embodiments, a press fit between the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54  is formed. For example, when the first inner compression connector component  52  is matingly connected to the second inner compression connector component  54 , the outer surface  84   b  of connector extension  84  engages the mating surface  52   e  of the first inner compression connector component  52 , and the edge  84   c  of the connector extension engages the ledge  62  to effect the press fit. In these embodiments, the circumferential face  52   f  of the first inner compression connector component  52  also engages the circumferential face  86   f  of the second inner compression connector component to form a fluid-tight seal therebetween. Those having skill in the art will appreciate that other connections between the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54  can be effected for the intended purpose disclosed herein. As one having skill in the art will appreciate, in one or more embodiments wherein the inner compression connector  50  is a single component, the cylindrical extension connector  84  will not be included in the inner compression connector  50  such that the inner surface  84   b  will be continuous and generally cylindrical. 
     Assembly and operation of one or more embodiments of the pipe connector is described herein with reference to  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 . As is shown in  FIG. 1 , connector segments  2  and  4 , and  6  and  8  are separated from one another such that the pipe connector  1  is preassembled before the segments  2  and  4 , and  6  and  8  are connected to one another to effect the pipe connector  1  to secure two ends of pipe segments  40  together. As shown in  FIG. 3 , connector segment  2  is to be extricably and interlockingly connected to connector segment  4 . As shown in  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 , connector segment  2  is connected to segment  4  as the holes  22 , formed in the side flanges  14   a  and  14   b  included in the connector segments  2  and  4 , are aligned and vertical compression bolts  26   a  are inserted through the holes  22  and tightened to thereby draw the connector segments  2  and  4  towards one another to effect a fluid-tight connection. In one or more embodiments, a gasket, as described herein, is disposed on one or both planar surfaces  30   g  of connector segments  2  and  4 , and one or both planar surfaces  30   h  of connectors segments  2  and  4 . In these embodiments, once the connector segment  2  is properly seated on connector segment  4  and the vertical compression bolts  26   a  are tightened to effect the connection therebetween, the connector segments  2  and  4  will form a fluid-tight connection therebetween wherein connector segments  2  and  4  are positioned within a spaced relation to one another due to the positioning of the gaskets. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , similar to the connector segments  2  and  4 , connector segment  6  is to be extricably and interlockingly connected to connector segment  8 . As shown in  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 , connector segment  6  is connected to segment  8  as the holes  22 , formed in the side flanges  66   a  and  66   b  included in the connector segments  6  and  8 , are aligned and vertical compression bolts  26   a  are inserted through the holes  82  and tightened to thereby draw the segments  6  and  8  towards one another to effect a fluid-tight the connection. In one or more embodiments, a gasket, as described herein, is disposed on one or both planar surfaces  70   g  of connector segments  6  and  8 , and one or both planar surfaces  70   h  of connectors segments  6  and  8 . In these embodiments, once the connector segment  6  is properly seated on connector segment  8  and the vertical bolts  26   a  are tightened to effect the connection therebetween, the connector segments  6  and  8  will form a fluid-tight connection therebetween wherein connector segments  6  and  8  are positioned within a spaced relation to one another due to the positioning of the gaskets. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , one or more embodiments includes the pipe connector  1  wherein the inner compression connector  50  includes first inner compression connector component  52  and second inner compression connector component  54 . In one or more embodiments, the first inner compression connector component  52  is attached to connector segment  4  such that when the connector segment  2  is properly seated against connector segment  4  such that the holes  22  formed in side flanges  14   a  and  14   b  included in connector segments  2  and  4  properly align with one another, the outer bore OB 1  is formed between the outer surface  52   b  of inner compression connector component  52  and the inner surface  30   a  of middle sections  30  included in connector segments  2  and  4 . With reference to  FIGS. 2 and 3 , one having skill in the art will appreciate that, to secure an end of the pipeline segment  40  into the pipe connector segments  2  and  4 , an end of the pipe segment  40  is inserted into the cavity C 1  formed in connector segment  4  such that the outer surface of the pipe will engage the series of serrated edges  30   i , formed in the inner surface  30   a  of middle section  30  included in connector segment  4 , and the inner surface of the of the pipe will engage the series of serrated edges  52   e  formed in the outer surface  52   b  of inner compression connector segment  52 . When the pipe segment  40  is properly seated within the cavity C 1  formed in pipe segment  40 , the end of the pipe segment  40  will engage the circumferential face  36   a  of ledge  36 , formed on inner surface  30   a  of middle section  30  included in segment  4 , and the circumferential face  60   a , formed on outer surface  52   b  of the first inner compression connector component  52 , such that the end of the pipe segment  40  cannot extend into the cavity C 1  past the opposing ledges  36  and  60 . One having skill in the art will appreciate that, in one or more embodiments, the end of a pipe segment  40  can also be secured to the pipe connector segment  2  by inserting the end of the pipeline segment  40  into the cavity C 1  formed in connector segment  2  such that the outer surface of the pipe will engage the series of serrated edges  30   i , formed in the inner surface  30   a  of middle section  30  included in connector segment  2 , and the series of serrated edges  52   e  formed in the outer surface  52   b  of inner compression connector segment  52 . In these embodiments, the first inner compression connector component  52  is connected to connector segment  2 . One having skill in the art will also appreciate that the connector segment  2  and the connector segment  4  can be connected in a spaced-apart configuration before the end of the pipe segment  40  is inserted into the cavity C 1  of connector segments  2  and  4 , via vertical compression bolts  26 , such that the diameter of the outer bore OB 1  formed between the outer surface  52   b  of inner compression connector component  52  and the inner surface  30   a  of middle sections  30  included in connector segments  2  and  4  is greater than the outer diameter of the end of the pipe segment  40 . In these embodiments, the end of the pipe segment may be inserted within the outer bore OB 1  and, thereafter, the connector segments  2  and  4  can be compressed against the pipe segment  40  to secure the pipe segment  40  within the compression coupling. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , when the connector segments  2  and  4  are brought together to interlockingly and sealingly connect the connector segment  2  to the connector segment  4 , the vertical compression bolts  26   a  are inserted through the holes  22  and tightened to thereby draw the segments  2  and  4  towards one another to effect a fluid-tight connection between the connectors segments  2  and  4  and compress the outer surface of the pipe segment  40  such that the pipe  40  is securely engaged by the series of serrated edges  30   i , formed in the inner surface  30   b  of middle sections  30  included in connector segments  2  and  4 , and the series of serrated edges  52   e  formed in the outer surface  52   a  of inner compression connector component  52 . The end of the pipe segment  40  engages the circumferential face  36   a  of ledge  36  and the opposing circumferential face  60   a  of ledge  60  to secure the pipe segment  40  within the outer bore OB 1  and effect a fluid-tight seal between the inner compression connector  50  and the pipe segment  40 . In one or more embodiments, the gaskets  92  and  94 , as described herein, are disposed on one or both of the circumferential face  36   a  of ledge  36  and the circumferential face  60   a  of ledge  60 , respectively, to effect a fluid-tight seal between the inner compression connector  50  and the pipe segment  40  when the pipe segment  40 . In one or more embodiments described herein, the vent assurance ring  56  is disposed on the gaskets  92  and  94  disposed on circumferential face  36   a  and the circumferential face  60   a  to effect a fluid-tight seal between the vent assurance ring  56  and the segments connectors  2  and  4  and inner compression connector component  52  when the connector segments  2  and  4  are interlockingly connected to the end of a pipe segment  40 . In this manner, gasses and fluids trapped in the annulus of a pipe segment  40  connected to pipe compression connector segments  2  and  4  are allowed to pass through the holes  56   a  disposed within the vent assurance ring  56  and through the pipe connector  1  to another pipe segment  40  connected to the connector  1  via pipe compression connector segments  6  and  8 , as described herein. One having skill in the art with the benefit of the teachings herein appreciate that gasses and other fluids disposed in the annulus of one or more pipe segments connected to the pipe connector  1  can be vented utilizing suitable means known in the art that will not be discussed in detail herein. 
     One having skill in the art will appreciate that the end of a pipe segment  40  can be secured to the connector segments  6  and  8  in the same manner in which an end of a pipe segment  40  is secured to the connector segments  2  and  4 , as described herein with respect to one or more embodiments. Once the connector segments  2  and  4  are interlockingly and sealingly connected to one another, and the connector segments  6  and  8  are interlockingly and sealingly connected to one another to secure respective ends of pipe segments  40  therein, connected connector segments  2 , 4  and connected connector segments  6 , 8  are brought together as shown in  FIG. 3  to form a fluid-tight seal therebetween. As shown in  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 , the holes  32  formed in the middle flanges  34  included in connector segments  2  and  4  are aligned with holes  76  formed in the middle flanges  74  included in the connectors segments  6  and  8  such that the horizontal compression bolts  26   b  are inserted through the holes  32  and the holes  76  and tightened to thereby draw the connected segments  2  and  4  towards the connected segments  6  and  8  to effect a fluid-tight connection therebetween. As connected segments  2  and  4  are brought towards the connected segments  6  and  8 , the peripheral extension  80  formed on the first side of  70   c  of connected segments  6  and  8  is inserted into the peripheral groove  38  formed on the second side of connected segments  2  and  4 . As shown with respect to  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 , the cylindrical extension connector  84  formed on the first side  54   c  of the second inner compression connector component  54  is inserted into the inner surface  52   a  of the first inner compression connector component  52  such that the edge  84   c  of extension connector  84  engages the ledge  62 , formed in the inner surface of  52   a  of the first inner compression connector component  52 , and the outer surface  84   b  of extension connector  84  engages the mating surface  52   e  formed in the inner surface  52   a . Once the edge  84   c  of extension connector  84  engages the ledge  62 , circumferential face  86   f  of the second inner compression connector component is configured to engage the circumferential face  52   f  of the first inner compression connector component to form a press fit and a fluid-tight seal between the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54 . In one or more embodiments, a gasket, as described herein, is disposed on one or both of the circumferential face  52   f  of the first inner compression connector component and the circumferential face  86   f  of the second inner compression connector component to effect a fluid-tight seal between the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54 . 
     In one or more embodiments described herein, the vent assurance ring  100  is disposed on the gaskets  96  and  98  disposed on circumferential face  78   a  and the circumferential face  68   a  to effect a fluid-tight seal between the vent assurance ring  100  and the segments connectors  6  and  8  and inner compression connector component  54  when the connector segments  6  and  8  are interlockingly connected to the end of a pipe segment  40 . In this manner, gasses and fluids trapped in the annulus of a pipe segment  40 , connected to pipe compression connector segments  6  and  8 , are allowed to pass through the holes  100   a  disposed within the vent assurance ring  100  and through the pipe connector  1  to another pipe segment  40  connected to the connector  1 , via pipe compression connector segments  2  and  4 , as described herein. One having skill in the art with the benefit of the teachings herein appreciate that gasses and other fluids disposed in the annulus of one or more pipe segments connected to the pipe connector  1  can be vented utilizing suitable means known in the art that will not be discussed in detail herein. In one or more embodiments, a gasket, as described herein can also be disposed on ledge  62  to effect a fluid-tight seal between the first and second inner compression connector components  52  and  54 . 
     In one or more embodiments disclosed herein, the inner compression connector  50  is a single substantially cylindrical component, as opposed to the inner compression connector  50  including two inner compression connector components  52  and  54  as disclosed in other embodiments herein, and is a separate component from the pipe connector segments  2 ,  4 ,  6  or  8  before the connected segments  2  and  4  and connected segments  6  and  8  drawn towards one another utilizing the horizontal compression bolts  26  to compress the outer diameter of the ends of the pipe segments  40 . In these embodiments, the end of a first pipe segment is secured to the first side  52   c  of the inner compression connector  50  by inserting the inner compression connector  50  into the end of the pipe segment  40  such that the inner diameter of the first pipe segment  40  will engage the series of serrated edges  52   e , formed in the outer surface  52   b  of the inner compression connector  50 , and the end of the pipe segment  40  will engage the circumferential face  60   a , formed on outer surface  52   b  of the inner compression connector  50 . When the pipe segment  40  is properly seated on the inner compression connector  50 , the end of the pipe segment  40  cannot extend in an axial direction past the ledge  60 . One having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the end of a second pipe segment can similarly be seated on the second side  70   d  of the inner compression connector  50  in the same manner as the end of the first pipe segment was seated on the first side  52   c  of the inner compression connector  50 . One having skill in the art will appreciate that, once the ends of the two pipe segments  40  are seated on the respective ends of the inner compression connector  50 , the compression connector segments  2  and  4  and the compression connector segments  6  and  8  can be sealingly and interlockingly connected to the pipe segments  40 , as disclosed herein, to effect the configuration of the compression coupling fitting to couple the two pipe segments  40  together in a fluid-tight manner. 
     In one or more embodiments disclosed herein, the inner compression connector  50  is a single substantially cylindrical component as opposed to including two inner compression connector components  52  and  54  and is connected to one of the pipe connector segments  2 ,  4 ,  6  or  8  before the pipe segments are drawn towards one another utilizing the horizontal compression bolts  26 . In these embodiments, one having skill in the art will appreciate that the connection effected between the pipe connector  1  and an end of the pipe segments  40  will be performed in a similar manner as described above. 
     One having skill in the art will appreciate that the pipe connector  1  shown in  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3  provides for the separate communication of fluids within the pipe connector  1 . For example, fluids disposed or trapped within the annulus of pipeline segments  40  connected to the pipe connector  1 —fluids including, for example, liquids, hydrocarbons or gasses—are communicated through the fluid-tight and sealingly connected outer bores OB 1  and OB 2  formed in the pipe connector  1  when the each of the connector segments  2 , 4  and  6 , 8  are connected as shown in  FIG. 3 , and fluids transported within the inner diameter of pipeline segments  40  connected to the pipe connector  1  are communicated through the fluid-tight and sealingly connected central bores  58   a  and  58   b  formed in the pipe connector  1  when the each of the connector segments  2 , 4  and  6 , 8  are connected, as shown in  FIG. 3 , such that the fluids disposed within outer bores OB 1  and OB 2  formed in the pipe connector  1  and the fluids disposed within central bores  58   a  and  58   b  are kept separate from one another. 
     It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment(s) described above and illustrated herein, but encompasses any and all variations falling within the scope of the appended claims. For example, one having ordinary skill will appreciate that one or more embodiments of the present invention can be utilized as an end-fitting or end-coupling in a pipeline once the connector segments  2  and  4  and an inner compression connector (disclosed herein), or connector segments  6  and  8  and an inner compression connector are connected to one another to secure an end of a pipeline therein, as disclosed in one or more embodiments of the present invention. Thus, references to the present invention herein are not intended to limit the scope of any claim or claim term, but instead merely make reference to one or more features that may be covered by one or more of the claims. Materials, processes and numerical examples described above are exemplary only, and should not be deemed to limit the claims.