US 8,394,205 B2 · Pipe scarifying system and method

Abstract

The invention disclosed and claimed herein relates to a subterranean pipe tractor for moving and controlling a pipe scarifier. The subterranean pipe tractor comprises a scarifier connector that reversibly connects a scarifier to the pipe tractor; a drive mechanism for propelling the scarifier through the pipe when the scarifier is connected to the pipe tractor; and a power source that powers the drive mechanism. The power source of the pipe tractor may be an on-board power source or an external power source. The pipe tractor may include a hydraulic pump and an on-board electric generator powered by the power source. The subterranean pipe tractor may include local controls for controlling local functions and remote controls used to control remote components, such as a high-pressure fluid source. The subterranean pipe tractor may optionally include a scarifier lift mechanism for lifting one end of the scarifier.

Claims5

Dependent claims

A pipe scarifying system for scarifying a pipe surface, the system comprising:

a. a freestanding scarifier having a nozzle, and a first end having at least one wheel to support the scarifier, and a second end;
b. a subterranean pipe tractor for propelling the scarifier along a pipe, the subterranean pipe tractor comprising:
i. a scarifier connector that releasably connects the scarifier to the subterranean pipe tractor;
ii. a drive mechanism adapted to propel the subterranean pipe tractor through the pipe when the scarifier is connected to the subterranean pipe tractor;
iii. a power source that powers the drive mechanism;
and
iv. a scarifier lift mechanism for lifting the second end of the scarifier;
c. a high-pressure fluid source;
and
d. a conduit connecting the high-pressure fluid source to the nozzle.

7 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Pipe scarifying system and method

Life of this patent

Pipe scarifying system and method

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims5