System and method for sealing leaks in vessels

A system for sealing a leak in a vessel, the system comprising:

• an inflatable seal disposed over the leak, the seal defining an interior chamber and including a sealant inlet and an air outlet in communication with the chamber on the seal;
• a reinforcing layer disposed over the seal to hold it against the vessel;
• and
• a quantity of sealant delivered into the chamber through the inlet under pressure to inflate the seal and expel any air within the seal through the air outlet;
• the reinforcing layer comprising a curable composite including a reinforcement and a matrix.

A method of sealing a leak in a vessel, comprising the steps of:

• positioning an inflatable seal over the leak, the seal including an interior chamber and an inlet in communication with the chamber;
• applying a reinforcing layer over the seal;
• and
• introducing an amount of a curable sealant into the chamber under pressure through the inlet as air is expelled through an outlet on the seal.

A method of sealing a leak in a vessel, comprising the steps of:

• applying a bead of sealant over the leak;
• positioning an inflatable seal over the leak, the seal including an interior chamber and an inlet in communication with the chamber;
• applying a reinforcing layer over the seal;
• and
• introducing an amount of a sealant into the chamber under pressure through the inlet as air is expelled through an outlet on the seal.

A system for sealing a leak in a generally cylindrical portion of a vessel, the system comprising:

• an inflatable, tubular seal about the periphery of the vessel, the seal defining an interior chamber and including an inlet and an outlet spaced apart and in communication with the chamber;
• a reinforcing layer comprising a curable composite adapted to be applied over the seal and adhered to the vessel as air is expelled;
• and
• a sealant adapted to be delivered into the chamber through the inlet to inflate the seal about the vessel.

A system for sealing a leak in a generally cylindrical portion of a vessel, the system comprising:

• an inflatable, tubular seal placed about the periphery of the vessel, the seal defining an interior chamber and including an inlet and an outlet spaced apart and in communication with the chamber;
• a reinforcing layer applied over the seal and adhered to the vessel;
• a sealant delivered into the chamber through the inlet to inflate the seal about the vessel as air is expelled through the outlet;
• and
• the reinforcing layer comprises a fabric substrate and an epoxy matrix.