Method and Apparatus for Clamping Flanges and Other Connections
AssigneeFlange Cuff, L.L.C.
InventorChristopher W. Fontenot
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A clamp assembly for temporarily applying compressive force to a flange connection assembly, such as a bolted pipe flange. Frame members are pivotally attached to interconnecting linkage members to form an elongate assembly having joinable ends. When installed around the circumference of a flange connection assembly, interchangeable cuff members removably attached to the frame members apply compressive forces to a flange connection assembly in order to facilitate a fluid-pressure seal.
Claims11
A method for removing and replacing at least one bolt of a bolted flange assembly having an upper surface and a lower surface comprising:
- a) installing a flange clamp assembly on said flange assembly, wherein said flange clamp assembly comprises:
- i) a plurality of frame members pivotally connected to each other;
- ii) at least one cuff member operationally attached to at least one of said frame members, wherein said at least one cuff member imparts compressive force to said upper and lower surfaces of said flange assembly;
- b) cutting at least one bolt of said flange assembly;
- c) removing said at least one bolt from said flange assembly;
- d) replacing said at least one bolt in said flange assembly;
- and
- e) removing said flange clamp assembly from said flange assembly.
A method for removing and replacing at least one bolt of a bolted flange assembly having an upper surface and a lower surface comprising:
- a) selecting at least one cuff member sized to accommodate dimensions of said flange assembly from a plurality of interchangeable cuff members;
- b) removably installing said at least one selected cuff member on a flange clamp assembly;
- c) installing said flange clamp assembly on said flange assembly;
- d) cutting at least one bolt of said flange assembly;
- e) removing said at least one bolt from said flange assembly;
- f) replacing said at least one bolt in said flange assembly;
- and
- g) removing said flange clamp assembly from said flange assembly
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.