Key information

Title
Device for sealing leaking flange gaskets and method for the same
Application number
20231218
Case type
National
Status
17.08.2026 Patent meddelt (B1)
Filed
10.11.2023
Effective date
10.11.2023
Publicly available
12.05.2025
Next annual fee due
30.11.2026
Applicant
IK TOPSIDE AS (NO)
Owner
IK TOPSIDE AS (NO)
Inventor
Ørjan Ohm (NO) et al.
Agent
HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS (NO)
Granted
17.08.2026
Patent number
350055
Expiry date
10.11.2043

Abstract and drawing

Disclaimer: This text has been machine-scanned and may contain errors – please refer to "Publications" for legally binding content.
The invention relates to a sealing device (200) for sealing a leaking gasket (130) of a flange connection (100, 100-1, 100-2) between two pipe segments (115, 125). The sealing device (200) comprises at least one sealing ring (110, 110-2), a plurality of compression segments (220, 220-2) and a compression ring (230), wherein the at least one sealing ring (110, 110-2) comprises a resilient material, wherein the at least one sealing ring (110, 110-2) is shaped to be provided, in operational use of the sealing device (200),in abutment with a gasket (130) and for sealing against the flange (110, 120) and, optionally, also the gasket (130), wherein shapes of the plurality of compression segments (220, 220-2) match each other like a puzzle while, in operational use of the sealing device (200), collectively substantially filling the space around and between bolts (150) and flanges (110, 120) on both sides, wherein, in operational use of the sealing device (200), the compression ring (230) is placed around the plurality of compression segments (220, 220-2) and configured for pressing the plurality of compression segments (220, 220-2) inwardly, which on their turn press against the at least one sealing ring (110, 110-2) to make the at least one sealing ring (110, 110-2) seal against the flange (110, 120) for obtaining sealing of the flange connection (100, 100-1, 100-2).

Publications

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Documents

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Date
 Date Doc. No. Process Case number In/Out Journal description To/from
 17.08.2026 09-01 Saksbehandling 20231218(350055) UT PT Registreringsbrev nasjonal patent (15) (PT20231218)
09.07.2026 02-01 Overdragelse av søknad/rettighet 2026/05163 UT Tilbakemelding på generell henvendelse HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 01.07.2026 01-02 Overdragelse av søknad/rettighet 2026/05163 INN P31081NO00_GPoA HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 01.07.2026 01-01 Overdragelse av søknad/rettighet 2026/05163 INN Generell henvendelse HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 03.06.2026 08-01 Saksbehandling 20231218 UT Intention to grant HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 29.05.2026 07-04 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN P31081NO00_Response_Office_Action_May_29,_2026 HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 29.05.2026 07-03 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN P31081NO00_Norwegian_translation_of_Claims HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 29.05.2026 07-02 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN P31081NO00_Description_and_claims_for_publication HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 29.05.2026 07-01 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN Korrespondanse (Hovedbrev inn) HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 11.03.2026 06-01 Saksbehandling 20231218 UT Substantive examination HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 02.10.2025 05-01 Saksbehandling 20231218 UT PT Varsel om betaling av første årsavgift (3317) (PT20231218) HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 30.08.2024 04-04 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN P31081NO00_Response_Office_Action_Aug_30_2024 HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 30.08.2024 04-03 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN P31081NO00_amendeddescription_tc HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 30.08.2024 04-02 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN P31081NO00_amendeddescription_clean HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 30.08.2024 04-01 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN Korrespondanse (Hovedbrev inn) HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 10.06.2024 03-02 Saksbehandling 20231218 UT PT report 11:03:17
10.06.2024 03-01 Saksbehandling 20231218 UT Substantive Examination HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 13.11.2023 02-01 Saksbehandling 20231218 UT Infobrev til oppfinner HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 10.11.2023 01-04 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN P31081NO00_FormalDrawings_final HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 10.11.2023 01-03 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN P31081NO00_description_final HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 10.11.2023 01-02 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN P31081NO00 General Power of Attorney HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
 10.11.2023 01-01 Saksbehandling 20231218 INN Søknadsskjema Patent HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS

Description, claims and drawings

Disclaimer: This text has been machine-scanned and may contain errors – please refer to "Publications" for legally binding content. Description
3500551DEVICE FOR SEALING LEAKING FLANGE GASKETSFIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe invention relates to a sealing device for sealing a leaking flange gasket of a flange 5 connection between two pipe segments. The invention also relates to a method of sealing a leaking flange gasket of a flange connection between pipe segments.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONGas pipes and high-pressure gas pipes are found all over the world. One application area 10 is the petrochemical industry. A typical gas pipe is built up of several gas pipe segments that are coupled in series by using so-called flange connections. Each end of the pipe segment has a flange, which in a connection faces another flange. Both flanges are provided with corresponding holes through which bolts are to be provided, wherein on both ends of the bolt there are provided at least one nut. Naturally, it can be assumed that one 15 side allows for the integration of the nut with the bolt. In at least one of the flanges there may be provided an annular recess that is configured for receiving a gasket for sealing of the flange connection, once the flanges are properly pressed together by bolts and nuts. A common problem with particularly, but not only, high-pressure gas pipes is that the flange connections start leaking. To resolve the leak, there exist two main techniques. The 20 first technique concerns the provision of a gas-tight housing around the leaking flange, sealing against the pipes on both sides of the flange. The disadvantage of this technique is that these housings may be very big, heavy, and expensive, because of the increased pressure area. Due to the dimensions of the housing, this type of clamp is prone to hinder its installation due to the crowded nature of these facilities. The second technique 3500552concerns the injection of sealing compounds into clamps to contain the sealing compound. The disadvantage of this technique is that it requires re-injection over time and does not hold high-pressure gases well. In addition, this type of sealing results in increased separation forces in the flange connection during injection, which could result in 5 higher stresses than allowed in the flange connection.In view of the above-described problems and existing solutions there is a need for better resealing techniques.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 10 The invention has for its object to remedy or to reduce at least one of the drawbacks of the prior art, or at least provide a useful alternative to prior art.The object is achieved through features, which are specified in the description below and in the claims that follow.The invention is defined by the independent patent claims. The dependent claims define 15 advantageous embodiments of the invention.In a first aspect the invention relates to a sealing device for sealing a leaking flange gasket of a flange connection between two pipe segments. The flange connection comprises: i) a first flange of a first pipe segment and having a receiving surface;ii) a second flange of a second pipe segment and having a further receiving surface 20 configured for cooperating with the receiving surface of the first flange to enable the flange connection, the first flange and the second flange being formed such that an annular recess is formed between the flanges when the flanges are joined together;iii) a gasket placed in between the receiving surfaces of the flanges for sealing the flange connection, wherein the gasket is accessible from the annular recess; 25 iv) a plurality of matching holes through said flanges being distributed around the circumference of the flanges, the plurality of matching holes being positioned such that each hole extends through the first flange, the annular recess and the second flange thus defining a space between the bolts and the flanges; andv) a plurality of bolts extending through the holes and being provided with nuts, 30 wherein the nuts are tightened to press the flanges together by means of the bolts. The sealing device is characterized in that the sealing device comprises at least one sealing ring, a plurality of compression segments and a compression ring, wherein the at least 3500553one sealing ring comprises a resilient material, wherein the sealing ring is shaped to be provided, in operational use of the sealing device, in abutment with the gasket and for sealing against the flanges and, optionally also the gasket, wherein the plurality of compression segments are shaped to match each other like a puzzle and form a ring-shaped 5 element having holes equally distributed over the ring-shaped element to facilitate placement aroundand in between the plurality of bolts in operational use of the sealing device, the plurality of compression segments collectively substantially filling the space around and between the bolts and the flanges on both sides, wherein, in operational use of the sealing device, the compression ring is placed around the plurality of compression seg- 10 ments and configured for pressing the plurality of compression segments inwardly, which on their turn press against the at least one sealing ring to make the at least one sealing ring seal against the flanges for obtaining sealing of the flange connection.The effects of the features of the sealing device in accordance with the invention are as 15 follows. First of all, the invention provides a low-weight, compact solution by exploiting the annular space between the flanges. The first component to be added is the sealing ring, which needs to be provided in the annular recess such that it abuts the gasket that originally was supposed to seal the flange connection. This sealing ring should be a resilient material and needs to have at least one cut such that it can be provided around the gas- 20 ket. It is advantageous when this cut is tilted relative to the orthogonal direction of the outer surface of the gasket. Pressing respective ends formed by these cuts then properly seals the sealing ring against itself. Then, the space in the annular recess around the bolts is conveniently filled up with a plurality of compression segments that are formed so as to fit in between and around the bolts like a puzzle. Finally, the compression ring (of 25 which mainly one specific embodiment is discussed in the description while many variations are possible) is provided around the plurality of compression segments for applying a pressure on these compression segments, which on their turn apply pressure on the sealing ring, which results in a proper resealing of the leaking flange connection. A major advantage of the current invention is that the pressure applied by the compression seg- 30 ments on the sealing ring does not significantly increase the separation forces , which could potentially induce stresses above the allowable limits of the flange. This is something the known injection sealing technique suffers from. The invention may render the need for a PED certificate superfluous. Also, sealant is not needed, which saves costs quite significantly. Another advantage is that a re-sealed flange connection may be recom- 35 pressed in case it would start leaking again, just by torquing the bolts. The invention's 3500554major benefit lies in its minimal projection from the flange's outer surface, which substantially diminishes the risk of interference with nearby obstructions.To facilitate understanding of the invention one or more expressions are further defined hereinafter. 5 Wherever the wording “gasket” is used, this must be interpreted as any part that is used for sealing, it may comprise soft material, resilient material, swelling material, but also hard materials that are deformed by the pressure applied by the bolts in the flange connection.Wherever the wording “pipe” is used, this must be interpreted as any tubular hollow struc- 10 ture, which facilitates transportation of fluid matter, such as gases and liquids.Wherever the wording “flange” is used, this must be interpreted as a protruding rim at an end of pipe or pipe segment, which is configured for being mounting to a corresponding or matching flange of another pipe or pipe segment.Wherever the wording “bolt” is used, this must be interpreted as any elongated fastening 15 means, which can be tensioned at its ends.Wherever the wording “nut” is used, this must be interpreted as any form of tensioning device, which cooperated with the bolt to facilitate tensioning.Wherever the wording “sealing ring” is used, this must be interpreted as any ring-shaped structure, which is resilient enough to be used in the invention for re-sealing a leaking 20 flange connection. It may be of one piece, or have one or more cuts in order to allow it to be provided around the gasket.Whenever the wording “resilient material” is used, this must be interpreted as any soft, elastic or flexible, material, which within the application of flange connections allows deformation to ensure a sealing effect. 25 Whenever the wording “compression segments” is used, this must be interpreted as a plurality of segments, which together fill the space around the bolts within the annular recess enough to allow the compression ring to be provided around it without it touching the bolts.Whenever the wording “compression ring” is used, this must be interpreted as any annular 30 structure that is capable of being provided around the compression segments, while 3500555applying an inwardly-directed pressure on the compression segments. It may comprise of one piece or multiple piece that can be coupled together.In an embodiment of the sealing device in accordance with the invention at least one of the first flange and the second flange comprises a further annular recess in the respective 5 receiving surface thereof, wherein the further annular recess is for partially housing the gasket to fix its position relative to the flanges facilitating sealing. There exist different types of flange connections. Some of them have a further annular recess on the receiving surface of the flange to contain at least part of the gasket, which the neighbouring flange may have the same annular recess. These two further annular recesses together then 10 contain the gasket. Such gasket is typically called a ring-type-joint (RTJ) gasket and a flange connection comprising such gasket an RTJ-flange. Other flange connections, such as Raised Face flanges, do not have such annular recess on their receiving surfaces. In an embodiment of the sealing device in accordance with the invention the plurality of compression segments comprises a metal, such as steel. 15 In an embodiment of the sealing device in accordance with the invention the compression ring comprises a plurality of ring sections that are connectible together so as to form the compression ring. This embodiment is easier to mount around an existing flange connection. There may be any two or more ring sections that jointly form the ring.In an embodiment of the sealing device in accordance with the invention the compression 20 ring comprises a further metal, such as steel.In an embodiment of the sealing device in accordance with the invention the sealing ring is shaped in accordance with Figs.2, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, 7, 8. The detailed description will provide further structural details of the sealing ring.In an embodiment of the sealing device in accordance with the invention the plurality of 25 compression segments are shaped in accordance with Figs.2, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, 7, 8.The detailed description will provide further structural details of the compression segments.In an embodiment of the sealing device in accordance with the invention the compression ring is shaped in accordance with Figs.2, 4b, 4c, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, 7, 8. The detailed descrip- 30 tion will provide further structural details of the compression ring.In a second aspect the invention relates to a pipe comprising a plurality of pipe segments 3500556that are connected through respective flange connections, wherein at least one flange connection is provided with the sealing device according to any one of the preceding claims. The invention provides significant advantages when re-sealing pipes having leaking flange connections, wherein the sealing has been breached. The resealing according 5 to the invention leads to weight reduction, minimizes pollution, environmental hazards, and asset downtime related to leaking flanges. Also, the invention provides a very compact solution compared to the prior art solutions, which also causes the device to less likely interfere with adjacent equipment.In a third aspect the invention relates to a method of sealing a leaking flange gasket of a 10 flange connection between pipe segments. The method comprises steps of:- providing a sealing device in accordance with any one of the claims 1 to 8;- placing the sealing ring around the gasket and in abutment with the gasket;- placing the plurality of compression segments around and between the bolts, the plurality of compression segments collectively substantially filling the space around and 15 between the bolts and the flanges on both sides, and- placing the compression ring around the plurality of compression segments for pressing the plurality of compression segments together, which on their turn press against the sealing ring to make the sealing ring seal against the flanges.The method is conveniently used to re-seal existing pipes having pipe segments that are 20 connected with sealed flange connection.BRIEF INTRODUCTION OF THE DRAWINGSIn the following is described example of embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein: 25 Fig.1 shows part of a test flange connection, which serves to illustrate the problem and the context of the current invention;Fig.2 shows a first embodiment of the sealing device in accordance with the invention in an RTJ flange together with some enlarged views of the most important components of the sealing device; 30 Figs.3a-3l show consequent stages of applying the plurality of compression segments in the space between and around the bolts of the flange connection; 3500557Fig.4a shows a flange connection, wherein both the sealing ring and the compression segments are provided between the flanges;Fig.4b shows the flange connection of Fig.4a, wherein three ring sections of the compression ring are provided around the compression segments; 5 Fig.4c shows the flange connection of Fig.4a, wherein all ring sections of the compression ring are provided around the compression segments;Fig.5a shows a cross-section of the flange connection, wherein all compression segments are provided around the sealing ring, and wherein four ring sections of the compression ring are provided around the compression seg- 10 ments, without being tightened;Fig.5b shows a cross-section of the flange connection of Fig.5b, wherein the four ring sections of the compression ring are tightened;Fig.5c shows a sideview with cross-section in an orthogonal direction compared to Fig.5b, illustrating abutment of the sealing ring and the gasket; 15 Fig.6 shows a flange connection comprising the sealing device of the invention, wherein one of the flanges is removed;Fig.7 shows an RTJ-type flange connection having the first embodiment of the sealing device applied thereto, wherein also part of the pipe segments to which the flanges are connected are illustrated, and 20 Fig.8 shows an Raised Face-type flange connection having a second embodiment of the sealing device applied thereto, wherein also part of the pipe segments to which the flanges are connected are illustrated.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 25 Various illustrative embodiments of the present subject matter are described below. In the interest of clarity, not all features of an actual implementation are described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers’ specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related 3500558constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. 5 The present subject matter will now be described with reference to the attached figures.Various systems, structures and devices are schematically depicted in the drawings for purposes of explanation only and to not obscure the present disclosure with details that are well known to those skilled in the art. Nevertheless, the attached drawings are included to describe and explain illustrative examples of the present disclosure. The words 10 and phrases used herein should be understood and interpreted to have a meaning consistent with the understanding of those words and phrases by those skilled in the relevant art. No special definition of a term or phrase, i.e., a definition that is different from the ordinary and customary meaning as understood by those skilled in the art, is intended to be implied by consistent usage of the term or phrase herein. To the extent that a term or 15 phrase is intended to have a special meaning, i.e., a meaning other than that understood by skilled artisans, such a special definition will be expressly set forth in the specification in a definitional manner that directly and unequivocally provides the special definition for the term or phrase.The invention will be discussed with reference to the figures hereinafter. 20 Fig.1 shows part of a test flange connection 99, which serves to illustrate the problem and the context of the current invention. The test flange connection 100 is of the earlier-mentioned RTJ type and comprises a first flange 110 and a second flange 120, which each flange 110, 120 have a respective receiving surface 111, 121 for facing the other flange 110, 120. In both receiving surfaces 111, 121 there is provided an annular recess 113, 25 123 (referred to as further annular recess in the claims) in which a gasket 130 is retained.The receiving surfaces 111, 121 of the flanges 110, 120 are shaped such that an annular recess 140 is formed as illustrated. The flanges 110, 120 are provided with holes distributed around the circumference of the flange which are positioned such that the holes penetrated the first flange 110, the annular recess 140 and the second flange 120. Bolt are 30 provided through said holes as illustrated and the annular recess 140 causes the bolts 150 to be partly visible. The bolts 150 are all provided with nuts 160 and these nuts are tightened such that the flanges 110, 120 press the gasket 130 into the respective (further recesses) in the receiving surfaces of the flanges 110, 120. By this pressure the gasket 130 will typically deform and seal the flange connection. Even after tightening there will 3500559still be a gap 105 between the flanges 110, 120 as illustrated. Now, when the gasket 130 starts to wear out it may start leaking causing a leakage path 99 as illustrated by the thick double-curved arrow. The arrow 99 is directed away from the inside of the flange connection 100 to the outside. The inside of the flange connection 100 is in fluid communication 5 with the inside of the pipe (not shown) and contain high-pressure gas in some applications. When leakage occurs, the flange connection 100 may need to be re-sealed, which is where the current invention kicks in and provides a very compact and robust solution compared to prior art techniques. Before the invention is discussed it is to be noted that the invention effectively uses the space between the bolts 150 and the flanges 110, 120 10 within the annular recess 140 as will be explained in detail with reference to the remaining figures.Fig.2 shows a first embodiment of the sealing device 200 in accordance with the invention in an RTJ flange together with some enlarged views of the most important components of the sealing device 200. The sealing device 200 comprises of three parts as illus- 15 trated. The first part is a sealing ring 210 typically comprising a resilient material, such as an elastomer, i.e., rubber. On the outside of the sealing ring 210 there are provided a plurality of compression segments 220. Each compression segment 220 is shaped such that match each other like a puzzle and form a ring-shaped element having holes equally distributed over the ring-shaped element, as illustrated. The plurality of compression seg- 20 ments 220 are shaped to collectively and substantially fil the earlier-discussed annular recess 140 of the flange connection 100 as will be further illustrated hereinafter. In illustrated embodiment the plurality of compression segments 220 comprises roughly four different compression segments, namely a starter compression segment 220s that is to be placed first, multiple pairs of intermediate compression segments 220-1, 220-2, each pair 25 being complementarily shaped to be placed around a bolt of the flange connection 100, and a termination compression segment 220t. The starter compression segment 220s and the termination compression segment 220t together form the same shape as one 220-1 of the pairs of intermediate compression segments 220-1, 220-2, as illustrated. The starter compression segment 220s and the termination compression segment face a before-last 30 compression segment 220bl, which is shaped the same as the other one 220-2 of the pairs of intermediate compression segments 220-1, 220.2, as illustrated. Around the plurality of compression segments 220, there is a provided a compression ring 230, which is built-up out of four similar individual parts 230-1, 230-2, 230-3, 230-4, as illustrated. 35005510Figs.3a-3l show consequent stages of applying the plurality of compression segments 220 in the space between and around the bolts 150 of the flange connection 100. In these figures unnecessary repetition of reference numbers is avoided for clarity purposes.In Fig.3a the sealing ring 210 is already applied in the gap between the flanges. In order 5 to facilitate this the sealing ring 210 comprises a cut with a tilted surface relative to the surface of the gasket 130 with which it is abutted. Also, the starter compression segment 220s is already applied in Fig.3a and the first intermediate compression segment 220-2 is being applied. In Fig.3b the first intermediate compression segment 220-2 has been applied between the bolts and abutting the starter compression segments 220s. In Fig.3c a 10 second intermediate compression segment 220-1 has been applied. In Fig.3d a third intermediate compression segment 220-2 is being applied. In Fig.3e the third intermediate compression segment 220-2 has been applied. In Fig.3f a fourth intermediate compression segment 220-1 has been applied. In Fig.3g a fifth intermediate compression segment 220-2 has been applied. In Fig.3h a sixth intermediate compression segment 220-1 15 has been applied. This process is further repeated and Fig.3i shows the stage where the 14th intermediate compression segment 220-1 has been applied. In Fig.3j the before-last compression segment 220bl is being applied and in Fig.3k it has been applied. Finally, in Fig.3l the termination compression segment 220t has been applied. This final piece of the plurality of compression segments 220 completes the puzzle and substantially fills the 20 space between bolts and the flanges 110, 120 and the sealing ring 210. It is also important to note that due to the special shaping of the plurality of compression segments the termination compression segments 220t also retains the starter compression segment 220s as well as its neighbouring compression segments 220bl, 220-2. The sealing device 200 is now ready for the application of the compression ring 230 around the plurality of 25 compression segments 220.Fig.4a shows a flange connection 100, wherein both the sealing ring 210 (not visible) and the compression segments 220-1, 220-2 are provided between the flanges 110, 120. Fig. 4a complies with the stage illustrated in Fig.3l. Fig.4b shows the flange connection 100 of Fig.4a, wherein three ring sections 230-1, 230-2, 230-3, of the compression ring 230 30 are provided around the compression segments 220-1, 220-2. It can be clearly observed that the compression ring sections are T-shaped, such that they fit into the space that is left in the annular recess 140. Fig.4c shows the flange connection 100 of Fig.4a, wherein all ring sections 230-1, 230-2, 230-3, 230-4 of the compression ring 230 are provided around the compression segments 220. In the current embodiment the ring sections 230 350055111, 230-2, 230-3, 230-4 of the compression ring 230 are bolted together, but they also may be coupled together by any other fastening technique known in the field.Fig.5a shows a cross-section of the flange connection 100, wherein all compression segments 220 are provided around the sealing ring 210, and wherein four ring sections 230-1, 5 230-2, 230-3, 230-4 of the compression ring 230 are provided around the compression segments 220, without being tightened. It can be observed that the holes in the compression segments 220 are larger than the diameter of the bolts 150. This is on purpose, because the compression segments 220 must be pressed against the sealing ring 210. This means that the holes must be large enough to allow some movement freedom of the com- 10 pression segments 220 during tightening of the compression ring 230.Fig.5b shows a cross-section of the flange connection 100 of Fig.5b, wherein the four ring sections 230-1, 230-2, 230-3, 230-4 of the compression ring 230 are tightened together. The compression ring 230 presses on the compression segments 220 which on their turn press on the sealing ring 210, which on its turn presses on the gasket 130, but 15 also on sidewalls (not shown) of the annular recess 140 (not shown), thereby sealing the flange connection 100. Fig.5c shows a sideview with cross-section in an orthogonal direction compared to Fig.5b, illustrating abutment of the sealing ring 210 and the gasket 130. The figure also serves to illustrate the various parts that were discussed in view of previous figures. 20 Fig.6 shows a flange connection 100 comprising the sealing device 200 of the invention, wherein one 110 of the flanges 110, 120 is removed. The compression ring 230 is not tightened in this figure, but it does show all the components of the sealing device 200. The figure also illustrates how the sealing ring 210 comprises a split 210s which allows it to be applied to the flange connection 100. Alternatively, there may be more than one split 25 210s.Fig.7 shows an RTJ-type flange connection 100-1 having the first embodiment of the sealing device 200 applied thereto, wherein also part of pipe segments 115, 125 to which the flanges 110, 120 are connected are illustrated. This figure gives a more complete view of the flange connection 100-1, whereas the previous figures rather illustrate the gist of 30 the invention concerning the flanges 110, 120 and the way it is sealed with the gasket 130.Fig.8 shows a Raised Face-type flange connection 100-2 having a second embodiment of the sealing device 200 applied thereto, wherein also part of the pipe segments 115, 125 35005512to which the flanges 110, 120 are connected are illustrated. This figure will only be discussed in as far as it differs from Fig.7. Instead of the gasket 130. In Raised Face-type flange connections like in this figure, the almost ring-shaped gasket 130-2 in the annular trench is replaced with a disc-shaped gasket 130. This disc-shaped gasket 130-2 extends 5 from the inner wall of the pipe segments 115, 125 to beyond a bottom of the annular trench 140 as illustrated. In other to be able to re-seal the disc-shaped gasket 130-2 when it leaks, the sealing ring 210 of Fig.7 needs to be replaced with a pair of sealing rings 210-2, one on each side of the disc-shaped gasket 130-2, as illustrated. Furthermore, in the plurality of compression segments 220 in Fig.7 needs to be replaced with a plurality of 10 U-shaped compression segments 220-2 as illustrated. All other parts of the flange connection 100-2 are substantially the same as in Fig.7.The invention has been illustrated with reference to two main embodiments illustrated by the figures. However, the invention is also applicable to other types of flange connections. And although the invention was done within the field of high-pressure gas pipes at both 15 low and high temperatures, the invention may also be applied to pipes transporting any other type of fluid, such as liquids, gases and mixtures thereof.The embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the invention may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. For example, variations are possible in the way 20 parts are connected or coupled. The connection ring as shown in the figures may also be replaced with other types of tensioning devices. One might even consider a tensioning device, which uses bolts accessible from the outside, wherein the bolts are able to apply a compressive force to each compression segment individually. Many options exist there and all of those fall within the scope of the claims. What is important is that it is configured 25 for applying a compressive force on the compression segments.The person skilled in the art may easily find alternative solutions for tightening, tensioning, and mounting parts. The invention covers all these variants as long as they are covered by the independent claim. No limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore evident that 30 the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the claims below. 35005513It should be noted that the above-mentioned embodiments illustrate rather than limit the invention, and that those skilled in the art will be able to design many alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. Use 5 of the verb "comprise" and its conjugations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those stated in a claim. The article "a" or "an" preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. In the device claims enumerat- 10 ing several means, several of these means may be embodied by one and the same item of hardware.
Claims
35005514C l a i m s1. A sealing device (200) for sealing a leaking gasket (130) of a flange connection (100, 100-1, 100-2) between two pipe segments (115, 125), the flange connection (100, 100-1, 100-2) comprising:5 i) a first flange (110) of a first pipe segment (115) and having a receiving surface (111);ii) a second flange (120) of a second pipe segment (125) and having a further receiving surface (121) configured for cooperating with the receiving surface (111) of the first flange (110) to enable the flange connection (100, 100-1, 100-2), the first flange (110)10 and the second flange (120) being formed such that an annular recess (140) is formed between the flange (110, 120) when the flange (110, 120) are joined together;iii) a gasket (130) placed in between the receiving surfaces (111, 121) of the flange (110, 120) for sealing the flange connection (100, 100-1, 100-2), wherein the gasket (130) is accessible from the annular recess (140);15 iv) a plurality of matching holes through said flanges (110, 120) being distributed around the circumference of the flange (110, 120), the plurality of matching holes being positioned such that each hole extends through the first flange (110), the annular recess (140) and the second flange (120) thus defining a space between the bolts (150) and the flange (110, 120); and20 v) a plurality of bolts (150) extending through the holes and being provided with nuts (160), wherein the nuts (160) are tightened to press the flange (110, 120) together by means of the bolts (150),characterized in that the sealing device (200) comprises at least one sealing ring (210, 210-2), a plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) and25 a compression ring (230), wherein the at least one sealing ring (210, 210-2) comprises a resilient material, wherein the at least one sealing ring (210, 210-2) is shaped to be provided, in operational use of the sealing device (200), in the annular recess in abutment with the gasket (130) for sealing against the flange (110, 120) and, optionally, also the gasket (130), wherein the plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2,30 220t) are shaped to match each other like a puzzle and form a ring-shaped element having holes equally distributed over the ring-shaped element to facilitate placement around and in between the plurality of bolts (150) in operational use of the sealing device (200), the plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) collectively substantially filling the space around and between the bolts (150) and the flanges (110, 120)35 on both sides, wherein, in operational use of the sealing device (200), the compression35005515ring (230) is placed around the plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) and configured for pressing the plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) inwardly, which on their turn press against the at least one sealing ring (210, 210-2) to make the sealing ring (210, 210-2) seal against the flange (110, 120) for5 obtaining sealing of the flange connection (100, 100-1, 100-2).2. The sealing device (200) according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first flange (110) and the second flange (120) comprises a further annular recess (113, 123) in the respective receiving surface (111, 121) thereof, wherein the further annular recess10 (113, 123) is for partially housing the gasket (130) so as to fix its position relative to the flange (110, 120) facilitating sealing.3. The sealing device (200) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) comprises a metal, such as steel.154. The sealing device (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the compression ring (230) comprises a plurality of ring sections (230-1..230-4) that are connectible together so as to form the compression ring (230).20 5. The sealing device (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the compression ring (230) comprises a further metal, such as steel.6. The sealing device (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing ring (210, 210-2) is shaped in accordance with Figs.2, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, 7, 8.257. The sealing device (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) are shaped in accordance with Figs.2, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, 7, 8.30 8. The sealing device (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the compression ring (230) is shaped in accordance with Figs.2, 4b, 4c, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, 7, 8.9. A pipe comprising a plurality of pipe segments (115, 125) that are connected35 through respective flange connections (100, 100-1, 100-2), wherein at least one flange35005516connection (100, 100-1, 100-2) is provided with the sealing device (200) according to any one of the preceding claims.10. A method of sealing a leaking gasket (130) of a flange connection (100, 100-1,5 100-2) between pipe segments (115, 125), the method comprising steps of:- providing a sealing device (200) in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 8; - placing the at least one sealing ring (210, 210-2) around the gasket (130) and in abutment with the gasket (130);- placing the plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t)10 around and between the bolts (150), the plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) collectively substantially filling the space around and between the bolts (150) and the flange (110, 120) on both sides, and- placing the compression ring (230) around the plurality of compression segments (220, 220-2) for pressing the plurality of compression segments (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2,15 220t) together, which on their turn press against the at least one sealing ring (210, 210-2) to make the at least one sealing ring (210, 210-2) seal against the flange (110, 120).35005517P a t e n t k r a v1. Tettingsanordning (200) for tetting av en lekk pakning (130) i en flensforbindelse (100, 100-1, 100-2) mellom to rørsegmenter (115, 125), hvor flensforbindelsen (100, 100-1, 100-2) omfatter:5 i) en første flens (110) av et første rørsegment (115) og som har en mottaksflate (111);ii) en andre flens (120) av et andre rørsegment (125) og som har en ytterligere mottaksflate (121) konfigurert til å samarbeide med mottaksflaten (111) på den første flensen (110) for å muliggjøre flensforbindelsen (100, 100-1, 100-2),10 idet den første flensen (110) og den andre flensen (120) er tildannet slik at en ringformet forsenkning (140) tildannes mellom flensen (110, 120) når flensen (110, 120) kobles sammen:iii) en pakning (130) plassert mellom mottaksflatene (111, 121) på flensen (110, 120) for tetting av flensforbindelsen (100, 100-1, 100-2), hvor pakningen15 (130) er tilgjengelig fra den ringformede forsenkningen (140);iv) en flerhet av matchende hull gjennom nevnte flenser (110, 120) som er fordelt om omkretsen til flensen (110, 120), idet flerheten av matchende hull er posisjonert slik at hvert hull strekker seg gjennom den første flensen (110), den ringformede forsenkningen (140) og den andre flensen (120) og slik definerer et20 rom mellom boltene (150) og flensen (110, 120); ogv) en flerhet av bolter (150) som strekker seg gjennom hullene og er forsynt med muttere (160), hvor mutterne (160) strammes for å presse flensen (110, 120) sammen ved hjelp av boltene (150),k a r a k t e r i s e r t v e d at tettingsanordningen (200) om-25 fatter minst én tettingsring (210, 210-2), en flerhet av kompresjonssegmenter (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) og en kompresjonsring (230), hvor den minst ene tettingsringen (210, 210-2) omfatter et elastisk materiale, hvor den minst ene tettingsringen (210, 210-2) er formet for å tilveiebringes, i driftsbruk av tettingsanordningen (200), i den ringformede forsenkningen tilgrensende pakningen (130)30 for tetting mot flensen (110, 120) og, valgfritt, også pakningen (130), hvor flerheten av kompresjonssegmenter (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) er formet for å passe med hverandre som et puslespill og tildanne et ringformet element som har hull jevnt fordelt over det ringformede elementet for å muliggjøre plassering rundt og innimellom flerheten av bolter (150) i driftsbruk av tettingsanordningen35 (200), idet flerheten av kompresjonssegmenter (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t)35005518samlet vesentlig fyller rommet rundt og mellom boltene (150) og flensene (110, 120) på begge sider, hvor, i driftsbruk av tettingsanordningen (200), kompresjonsringen (230) er plassert om flerheten av kompresjonssegmenter (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) og konfigurert til å presse flerheten av kompresjonssegmen-5 ter (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) innover, som i tur presser mot den minst ene tettingsringen (210, 210-2) for å få tettingsringen (210, 210-2) til å tette mot flensen (110, 120) for å oppnå tetting av flensforbindelsen (100, 100-1, 100-2).2. Tettingsanordning (200) ifølge krav 1, hvor minst én av den første flensen (110) og den andre flensen (120) omfatter en ytterligere ringformet forsenkning (113,10 123) i den respektive mottaksflaten (111, 121) derav, hvor den ytterligere ringformede forsenkningen (113, 123) er for å delvis romme pakningen (130) for å feste dens posisjon i forhold til flensen (110, 120) og forenkle tetting.3. Tettingsanordning (200) ifølge krav 1 eller 2, hvor flerheten av kompresjonssegmenter (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) omfatter et metall, slik som stål.15 4. Tettingsanordning (200) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de foregående kravene, hvor kompresjonsringen (230) omfatter en flerhet av ringseksjoner (230-1..230-4) som kan kobles sammen for å tildanne kompresjonsringen (230).5. Tettingsanordning (200) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de foregående kravene, hvor kompresjonsringen (230) omfatter et ytterligere metall, slik som stål.20 6. Tettingsanordning (200) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de foregående kravene, hvor tettingsringen (210, 210-2) er formet i overensstemmelse med fig.2, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, 7, 8.7. Tettingsanordning (200) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de foregående kravene, hvor flerheten av kompresjonssegmenter (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) er for-25 met i overensstemmelse med fig.2, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, 7, 8.8. Tettingsanordning (200) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de foregående kravene, hvor kompresjonsringen (230) er formet i overensstemmelse med fig.2, 4b, 4c, 5a, 5b, 5c, 6, 7, 8.9. Rør omfattende en flerhet av rørsegmenter (115, 125) som er forbundet via30 respektive flensforbindelser (100, 100-1, 100-2), hvor minst én flensforbindelse35005519(100, 100-1, 100-2) er forsynt med tettingsanordningen (200) ifølge et hvilket som helst av de foregående kravene.10. Framgangsmåte for tetting av en lekk pakning (130) i en flensforbindelse (100, 100-1, 100-2) mellom rørsegmenter (115, 125), hvor framgangsmåten omfatter5 trinnene:- å tilveiebringe en tettingsanordning (200) ifølge et hvilket som helst av kravene 1 til 8;- å plassere den minst ene tettingsringen (210, 210-2) om pakningen (130) og tilgrensende pakningen (130);10 - å plassere flerheten av kompresjonssegmenter (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) rundt og mellom boltene (150), idet flerheten av kompresjonssegmenter (220, 220s, 220-1, 220-2, 220t) samlet vesentlig fyller rommet rundt og mellom bolten (150) og flensen (110, 120) på begge sider, og- å plassere kompresjonsringen (230) rundt flerheten av kompresjonsseg-15 menter (220, 220-2) for å presse flerheten av kompresjonssegmenter (220, 220s,220-1, 220-2, 220t) sammen, som i tur presser mot den minst ene tettingsringen (210, 210-2) for å få den minst ene tettingsringen (210, 210-2) til å tette mot flensen (110, 120).
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Patent classes

IPC classesF16L 23/00F16L 23/02F16L 23/16F16L 19/00F16L 17/06CPC classesF16L 23/00F16L 23/02F16L 23/16F16L 23/167F16L 19/00F16L 17/06

Citations

JP 2000266256 A (A)GP 469847 A (A)US 2004/150226 A1 (A1)

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IK TOPSIDE AS
IK TOPSIDE AS

Org. number: 937102348

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Christian August Thorings veg 9 4033 STAVANGER NO (STAVANGER Municipality, Rogaland county)Org. number: 937102348Inventors
Ørjan Ohm
Laberget 105 4020 STAVANGER NO (STAVANGER Municipality, Rogaland county)
Roald Byre Kolnes
Øygardsdalen 21 4051 SOLA NO (SOLA Municipality, Rogaland county)
Tormod Sekse Bilstad
Solaveien 67 4316 SANDNES NO (SANDNES Municipality, Rogaland county)

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HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS
HÅMSØ PATENTBYRÅ AS

Org. number: 918752900

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Postboks 9 4068 STAVANGER NO (STAVANGER Municipality, Rogaland county)
Org. number: 918752900
Reference: P31081NO00

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