Pipe connector for cryogenic use

Abstract

A connector for piping destined to the transfer of fluid at very low temperature, in particular liquefied natural gas is described. The coupling comprises a first and a second length of piping (8, 9) that are provided with respective closing valves (20, 27) and destined to be fastened, respectively, to a piping (2) for the inflow of the fluid and to a piping (6) for the receiving of the fluid. Onto the second length of piping (9) a quick-coupling mechanism (34) is mounted that comprises a circumferential sequence of jaws (36) that are suitable to provide a firm front coupling between terminal flanges (12, 17) of the two lengths of piping (8, 9), and means (35 38) for the driving of the jaws. Each one of said lengths of piping (8, 9) is surrounded by an external coating band (23, 30) that defines with said length of piping a thermally insulating interspace (25, 32). The two coating bands (23, 30) are passed through by respective mechanisms (22, 29) for the transmission of the motion to said closing valves (20, 27) and the coating band (30) of the second length of piping (9) serves as a support for said quick-coupling mechanism (34).

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.