Method for expanding a tubular member
AssigneeGrotnes Metalforming Systems, Inc.
InventorLaszlo Javorik
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A tubular metal member undergoes expansion transverse to the longitudinal axis of the member. An axial compressive load is applied to the member parallel to the member's longitudinal axis, and the member is allowed to deform transversely to said axis. Procedures are employed to control the deformation of the member, to prevent the member from buckling, and to ensure that the ends of the member will be expanded uniformly with the remainder of the member.
Claims31
A method for expanding a tubular member in at least one direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of said member, said method comprising the steps of:
- applying a compressive load to said member with said load being parallel to the longitudinal axis of said member;
- and allowing said member to deform in said transverse direction substantially without the application of hydraulic pressure to the interior of said member and without buckling.
A method for lining a first member having an axially extending tubular cavity with a second tubular member, said method comprising the steps of:
- inserting said second member inside of said first member;
- and expanding said second member in directions transverse to the longitudinal axis of said second member substantially without the application of hydraulic pressure to the interior of said second member until the outer surface of said second member contacts the inner surface of said first member;
- said expanding step comprising the steps of applying a compressive load to said second member with said load being parallel to said longitudinal axis and allowing said second member to deform in said transverse directions without buckling.
An apparatus for expanding a tubular member in at least one direction transverse to the longitudinal axis of said member, said apparatus comprising:
- means for applying to said member a compressive load parallel to the longitudinal axis of said member;
- and
- means for allowing said member to deform in said transverse direction without buckling;
- said apparatus being devoid of means for applying substantial hydraulic pressure to the interior of said member.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.