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    • 专利摘要:
    FLEXIBLE TUBE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME The invention concerns the construction of a sealed connection between a flexible elastomeric or synthetic polymer tube or hose and a metallic coupling element (13?). The coupling element surrounds a layer of reinforcement (9 ') at a free end of the flexible hose or tube. A sealing area (3 ') is defined by a recessed part of the tube coupling (13') into which a sealing material (23) is introduced. A layer of inner lining (1?) Of the flexible hose or tube can extend into the sealing area (3?) Where it is joined to the sealing material. Each of the sealing material (23) and the inner lining layer (1 ') can be comprised of a semicrystalline thermoplastic material. In addition, a reinforcement material (2 ') can be provided in the inner lining layer (1').
    公开号:BR112015011873B1
    申请号:R112015011873-9
    申请日:2013-11-22
    公开日:2020-12-01
    发明作者:Bruno Jaspaert
    申请人:Gtf 2 Engineering & Services Uk Ltd.；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    TECHNICAL FIELD
    [001] The present invention relates to a flexible tube or hose for high pressure or high pressure / high temperature applications and particularly, although not exclusively, to the construction of a sealed connection between the tube or hose and a metallic coupling element. In one embodiment of the invention, a reinforcement device is incorporated into an inner lining of the flexible hose or tube. The flexible hose or hose of the present invention is primarily intended to be suitable for the transport of hydrocarbon liquids or gases and / or water. Also disclosed are methods for making a flexible hose or tube having the characteristics mentioned above. Although the terms "tube" and "hose" are generally used interchangeably throughout the present disclosure, a tube can be understood to be relatively less flexible than a hose where the context allows. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
    [002] Flexible tubes or hoses are used in both onshore and offshore applications in the oil and gas exploration field primarily for the transport of fluids and gases. The term "flexible" is to be understood to exclude substantially rigid constructions, such as steel tubes. Flexible hoses or tubes are typically used to transport high temperature pressurized crude oil and gas from a seabed-based wellhead to a floating platform or processing facility. However, they are also suitable for loading a wide range of injection or service fluids in order to improve or maintain production output. Consequently, flexible tubes or hoses are exposed to wide variations in pressure and temperature both internally and externally.
    [003] Typical tube or hose pressure and temperature ratings are revealed, for example, in the American Petroleum Institute (API) 7K standard - fifth edition - June 2010, entitled 'Drilling and Well Servicing Equipment' (see paragraphs 9.6 .1, 9.6.3.1 and Table 9). Additional guidance regarding pressure and / or temperature conditions supported by flexible tubes or hoses (typically 3 ”diameter (76.2 mm) and above) can be found in API standards, 16C (see Tables 3.4.1 , 3.4.2, 3.4.3 and 3.5.2.1), OCIMF, 17J and 17K. In moderate diameter hoses the pressure rating will typically be several hundred bars (for example, from 10 to more than 100 MPa), and will decrease with increasing hose diameter. Flexible hoses or tubes must be able to withstand typical temperature conditions of approximately -40 ° C to +132 ° C depending on the application.
    [004] Flexible tubes can be divided into two categories: glued and unglued. Unglued flexible tubes typically comprise a number of metallic reinforcement layers and polymeric anti-wear / anti-friction layers whereby a relative degree of sliding between at least two adjacent layers is possible. Even where one layer is embedded within another, unglued features can be demonstrated by a simple peel test, for example, a reinforcement layer of steel strands out of its surrounding polymer matrix. This test is based on an adapted version of the ‘Standard Test Method for Rubber Property - Adhesion to Steel Cord’ (ASTMD 2229-85).
    [005] Bonded tubes - which are commonly used for a range of applications similar to those of non-bonded tubes - prevent any slipping between adjacent layers. Bonded tubes employ an inner elastomeric or thermoplastic lining tube that is sometimes extruded over or joined to an underlying metal housing and surrounded by a layer of reinforcement. The total tube can be considered to be a composite of metal cable or wire joined (coated with brass or galvanized) and elastomeric layers, with the possible inclusion of a thermoplastic inner coating layer as noted below. Bonded tubes are tested to ensure that they are able to withstand rapid gas decompression events that can cause a blistering phenomenon in their innermost layers. Types of bonded flexible tubes can be used as flexible risers, loading hoses or exploration hoses (rotating hoses, restrictive and stop hoses, mud and cement hoses).
    [006] In order to avoid losses due to the permeation of liquid and gas, a thermoplastic tube - or a tube having an internal thermoplastic coating - is often used in order to improve its total sealing capacity. However, some fluids or gases can be very aggressive and can cause rapid degradation of certain polymer or plastic coatings, especially at higher temperatures. To address this problem, it is known to employ types of more chemically inert polymers within the tube and / or in its inner lining (if present) such as cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), polyamide 11/12 (PA11 / PA12), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE ), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) or polyether ether ketone (PEEK). Although these designed polymers offer many advantages in terms of temperature resistance, resistance to acid corrosion, anti-cracking behavior, low gas / liquid permeability, etc., they are known to be less effective in ensuring a good quality seal with a coupling of hose (ie a pipe to pipe connection or pipe to end fitting). These coatings are often reinforced with an internal housing (stainless steel).
    [007] To ensure a secure seal between a pipe, or an inner lining of it, and a coupling (that is, a pipe to pipe connection or pipe to end fitting) all 'leakage paths' must be eliminated . A leak path is any path that allows pressurized fluid or gas to equalize with a lower pressure state. Fabrics, air pockets, reinforcement cables or any failure of continuous bonding between adjacent layers or materials within the tube construction can all give rise to a 'leak path' like this causing localized gas / liquid build-up resulting in blistering and, in the end, failure of the flexible tube. A safe and effective seal is a fundamental safety requirement for high pressure and high temperature bonded tubes. To the knowledge of the inventor, all manufacturers of bonded hoses to date have used an elastomer-based sealing compound, for example, such as that disclosed in GB2329439B (Antal and others).
    [008] Elastomers constitute the most flexible, deformable and elastic of the three classes of non-metallic polymer materials. A characteristic of the behavior of all elastomers is that they are inherently permeable to gases and vapors. When used inside a flexible tube for high temperature / high pressure applications, transmission of gases dissolved in micro-voids within the elastomeric structure makes the tube more likely to burst during a rapid depressurization event, that is, by which bubbles form within the micro-voids when pressure outside the tube is lost. This type of pipe failure is known as 'explosive decompression' and results in a catastrophic failure of the pipe seal and / or liner.
    [009] In an effort to minimize instances of 'explosive decompression', flexible tubes for high temperature / high pressure applications typically employ an internal thermoplastic coating to reduce the likelihood of liquid / gas permeation; and an inner wound steel strip housing located radially within the thermoplastic coating to reduce the likelihood of blistering. Although such preventive measures are generally effective over the length of a pipe, the sealed connection between a pipe and its coupling (that is, a pipe-to-pipe connection or a pipe to end fitting) is an area where the question of sealing stresses remains. Such stresses arise from mechanically applied compression and / or compression arising from the hydrostatic pressure of the fluid being sealed.
    [010] In terms of their functional properties, elastomers are soft, substantially elastic and substantially incompressible. Such characteristics make the elastomers suitable for use as primary seals at the interface of a tube and its coupling. The inherent incompressibility of elastomers means that high stresses can be resisted, and high pressures can be accommodated, when the elastomer material is very restricted. Elastomeric seals are therefore an automatic choice for high temperature / high pressure applications. Despite this, several modes of elastomeric failure or deterioration are well documented, as summarized in Tables 1 and 2 in Health & Safety Executive Report No. 320 (2005) entitled: 'Elastomers for fluid containment in offshore oil and gas production: Guidelines and review '(ISBN 0 7176 2969 4). In Table 1, a "rapid gas decompression or explosive decompression (ED)" failure mode is described as follows: "Gas dissolved in the elastomer under high pressure conditions results from solution and bubbles in the material when the external pressure is lost ”. The bubbles can grow large enough to cause fracture of the material (for example, seals) or an interface (for example, between the liner and adjacent layer in a hose).
    [011] By virtue of the known modes of elastomeric failure or deterioration, of which only one has been described previously, the present inventor has concluded that there is a requirement for alternative hose arrangements providing a recognizable improvement over sealing performance while simplifying construction total tube and manufacturing methods. In particular, further improvements in terms of the ability of a flexible pipe or hose and any associated coupling to withstand hostile conditions, over a longer period, would be highly desirable. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
    [012] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a flexible synthetic polymer tube is provided comprising: (i) a layer of reinforcement surrounding one end of the flexible tube; (ii) a tube coupling arranged at the end of the tube and surrounding the reinforcement layer; (iii) a sealing area defined by a lowered part of the pipe coupling; and (iv) a sealing material disposed in the sealing area; wherein said tube end extends into the sealing area and is joined to the sealing material, and characterized in that the sealing material is non-elastomeric and both the sealing material and the flexible tube comprise the same class of polymer synthetic selected from the group comprising thermoplastics and thermosets.
    [013] Optionally, each of the flexible tube and the sealing material comprises a semicrystalline thermoplastic material.
    [014] In one embodiment, the sealing material is supplied as an injectable molten synthetic fluid or polymer.
    [015] In an alternative embodiment, the sealing material is supplied as a solid melt seal.
    [016] Optionally, the solid melt seal comprises metal particles selected from one or more of the group comprising: fibers, coarse grains, chips or fine powder.
    [017] Optionally, different sizes of metallic particles are distributed throughout the solid melt seal.
    [018] Optionally, only one inner layer of the flexible tube comprises a semicrystalline thermoplastic material that extends into the sealing area.
    [019] Optionally, a reinforcement material is provided within the inner lining layer, but is not bonded to its semi-crystalline thermoplastic material.
    [020] Alternatively, a reinforcement material is provided within the inner lining layer which is fully bonded to its semicrystalline thermoplastic material by means of an adhesive bonding layer.
    [021] Optionally, the reinforcement material comprises steel cord and / or helically wound steel wires.
    [022] Optionally, two or more steel strands and / or steel wires helically wound apart are arranged in an interlocking mode.
    [023] Optionally, the reinforcement material is arranged within the inner lining layer in a rolled form at an angle between 25 degrees and 85 degrees with respect to the longitudinal geometric axis of the flexible tube.
    [024] Optionally, the reinforcement material comprises one or more strands and / or strands of fibers selected from the list comprising: glass fibers, carbon fibers, UHmwPE fibers (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) and aramid fibers.
    [025] Optionally, an electric heating element is provided within the inner covering layer.
    [026] Optionally, the electric heating element comprises one or more materials selected from the list comprising: conductive wires, conductive cables, conductive fabrics or conductive composites.
    [027] Optionally, the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the inner coating layer is directly joined to the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the sealing material by means of a polymer-to-polymer bond.
    [028] Optionally, the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the sealing material is directly connected to the pipe coupling by means of a polymer to metal connection.
    [029] Alternatively, the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the sealing material is joined indirectly to the inner liner layer and / or to the tube coupling by means of an intermediate adhesive bonding layer.
    [030] Optionally, the adhesive bonding layer also comprises a semicrystalline thermoplastic material.
    [031] Optionally, the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the inner lining layer and / or the sealing material is a polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) material.
    [032] Alternatively, the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the inner lining layer and / or the sealing material is a cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) material.
    [033] Alternatively, the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the inner lining layer and / or the sealing material is a perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) material.
    [034] Optionally, the tube coupling is formed from a metal or metal alloy.
    [035] Optionally, a cylindrical sleeve element is disposed under the inner liner at the end of the flexible tube and cooperates with the tube coupling near the sealing area to support part of the inner liner layer extending into the sealing area .
    [036] Optionally, an external surface of the cylindrical sleeve element is inclined at an acute angle in relation to the central longitudinal geometric axis of the tube.
    [037] Optionally, the inner lining layer is coupled to the pipe coupling by means of a crimp or stamped connection.
    [038] In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of making a flexible synthetic polymer tube, comprising the steps of: (i) providing a tube coupling comprising a recessed part defining a sealing area; (ii) providing a flexible tube and a layer of reinforcement surrounding the tube; (iii) providing a sealing material for introduction into the sealing area; (iv) fit the tube coupling to the end of the tube; and (v) establishing a chemical bond from polymer to polymer and from polymer to permanent metal within the sealing area between said pipe end and the sealing material; and the pipe coupling and the sealing material respectively; wherein the sealing material is non-elastomeric and both the sealing material and at least a part of the flexible tube are composed of the same class of synthetic polymer selected from the group comprising thermoplastics and thermosets.
    [039] Optionally, the method includes the additional step of providing a reinforcement device within the flexible tube.
    [040] Optionally, a support element is inserted under an internal surface of said tube end before or after the step of fitting the tube coupling to the tube end.
    [041] In one embodiment, the support element is introduced before fitting the tube coupling in order to expand the diameter of the tube end, the expanded part being supported near the sealing area once the tube coupling is fitted .
    [042] Optionally, the step of establishing a permanent chemical bond within the sealing area involves introducing the sealing material into the sealing area by means of injection through a passage connecting the sealing area to the outside of the pipe coupling.
    [043] In an alterative embodiment, the step of establishing a permanent chemical bond within the sealing area involves introducing the sealing material into the sealing area by mounting a solid melt seal on the pipe, near the pipe end, before fitting the tube coupling to the tube end.
    [044] Optionally, the step of fitting the tube coupling to the tube end is followed by the step of introducing the support element under an inner surface of said tube end, the support element incorporating a heater that melts the melt seal solid within the sealing area.
    [045] Optionally, the step of introducing the support element involves employing an inflatable support element that is temporarily inflated against the inner surface of said tube end while the permanent chemical connection is established.
    [046] Alternatively, the step of introducing the support element is followed by permanently stamping the support element against the inner surface of said tube end.
    [047] Optionally, the step of fusing the solid melt seal within the seal area is accompanied by the step of applying a vacuum to remove substantially all of the air from the seal area.
    [048] Optionally, each of the steps of providing a flexible tube and providing a sealing material includes providing a tube and sealing material comprising a semicrystalline thermoplastic material.
    [049] Optionally, the step of establishing a permanent chemical bond involves cooling the sealing material.
    [050] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a flexible elastomeric hose is provided comprising: (i) a layer of semi-crystalline thermoplastic inner liner; (ii) a layer of reinforcement surrounding the inner lining layer at one end of the flexible hose; (iii) a hose coupling arranged at the end of the hose and surrounding the reinforcement layer; (iv) a sealing area defined by a lowered part of the hose coupling; and (v) a semi-crystalline thermoplastic sealing material, or a cross-linked elastomeric sealing material, disposed in the sealing area; wherein a part of the inner liner layer at said hose end extends into the sealing area and is joined to the sealing material, characterized in that a reinforcement material is provided within the inner liner layer.
    [051] Optionally, the reinforcement material is not joined to the semicrystalline thermoplastic material.
    [052] Optionally, the reinforcement material comprises steel cord and / or helically wound steel wires.
    [053] Optionally, two or more steel strands and / or steel wires coiled helically separated are arranged in an interlocking mode.
    [054] Optionally, the reinforcement material is arranged within the inner lining layer in a rolled form at an angle between 25 degrees and 85 degrees with respect to the longitudinal geometric axis of the flexible hose.
    [055] Optionally, the reinforcement material comprises one or more strands and / or strands of fibers selected from the list comprising: glass fibers, carbon fibers, UHmwPE fibers (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) and aramid fibers.
    [056] Optionally, an electric heating element is provided within the inner covering layer.
    [057] Optionally, a cylindrical sleeve element is disposed under the inner liner at the end of the flexible hose and cooperates with the hose coupling near the sealing area to support part of the inner liner layer that extends into the seal.
    [058] In one embodiment, the sealing material is supplied as an injectable molten synthetic fluid or polymer.
    [059] In an alternative embodiment, the sealing material is supplied as a solid melt seal.
    [060] Optionally, the solid melt seal comprises metal particles selected from one or more of the group comprising: fibers, coarse grains, chips or fine powder.
    [061] Optionally, different sizes of metallic particles are distributed throughout the solid melt seal.
    [062] Optionally, the inner lining layer is coupled to the hose coupling by means of a crimped or stamped connection.
    [063] Optionally, all adjacent layers of the flexible hose are partially or totally joined in a permanent connection.
    [064] Optionally, an outer covering layer surrounds the reinforcement layer and comprises a semicrystalline thermoplastic material.
    [065] Optionally, a reinforcement material is provided within the outer covering layer.
    [066] Optionally, the reinforcement material comprises one or more materials selected from the list comprising steel cord, steel wire, fiber yarn and fiber wicks.
    [067] Optionally, the strands or strands of fibers comprise one or more fibers selected from the list comprising glass fibers, carbon fibers, UHmwPE fibers (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) and aramid fibers.
    [068] Optionally, the reinforcement material inside the outer cover is aligned in a unidirectional, bidirectional or multidirectional mode.
    [069] Optionally, the reinforcement material inside the outer covering layer is supplied inside a fabric or a folded ribbon.
    [070] Optionally, a layer of stainless steel interlocking cover surrounds the outside of the flexible hose.
    [071] In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method of making a flexible elastomeric hose is provided, comprising the steps of: (vi) providing a hose coupling comprising a recessed part defining a sealing area; (vii) providing a hose comprising a layer of semi-crystalline thermoplastic inner liner, and a layer of armature surrounding the inner liner layer at one end of the flexible hose; (viii) providing a semi-crystalline thermoplastic sealing material, or a cross-linked elastomeric sealing material, for introduction into the sealing area; (ix) providing a reinforcement material within the inner lining layer; (x) fit the tube coupling to the end of the hose; and (xi) establishing a permanent chemical bond within the sealing area between the hose end and the sealing material; and the hose coupling and the sealing material respectively.
    [072] Optionally, the step of establishing a permanent chemical bond within the seal area involves introducing the seal material into the seal area by mounting a solid melt seal near the hose end before attaching the hose coupling to the hose end .
    [073] Optionally, the step of fitting the hose coupling to the hose end is followed by the step of introducing a support element under an inner surface of said hose end, the support element incorporating a heater that melts the melt seal solid within the sealing area.
    [074] Optionally, the step of introducing the support element involves employing an inflatable support element that is temporarily inflated against the inner surface of said hose end while the permanent chemical connection is established.
    [075] Alternatively, the step of introducing a support element is followed by permanently stamping the support element against the inner surface of said hose end.
    [076] Optionally, the step of fusing the solid melt seal within the seal area is accompanied by the step of applying a vacuum to remove substantially all of the air from the seal area.
    [077] Use of the words "preceded by", "followed by", "before", "after" is not necessarily intended to mean immediately "preceded by", etc., unless the context so requires.
    [078] Modalities of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
    [079] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a tube or hose coupling fitted over the end of a flexible tube or hose;
    [080] Figure 2a is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the sealing area of figure 1 in more detail;
    [081] Figure 2b is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the sealing area of Figure 2a filled with a non-elastomeric sealing material;
    [082] Figure 3a is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an alternative sealing area allowing for more mechanical gripping;
    [083] Figure 3b is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the alternative sealing area of Figure 3a filled with a non-elastomeric sealing material;
    [084] Figure 4a is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the reinforcement seating angle within the inner lining;
    [085] Figure 4b is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an alternative seating angle and a heating device (s) within the inner lining;
    [086] Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a hose coupling fitted over the end of a flexible hose or tube having an alternative external reinforcing structure;
    [087] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a tube or hose development by which the component layers have been progressively removed towards the tube / hose end in preparation for attaching a tube / hose coupling to this;
    [088] Figure 7 is a schematic cross sectional view showing a tube or hose development of Figure 6 with a fusible seal ring mounted at its free end;
    [089] Figure 8a is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a tube or hose coupling fitted over the end of the fusible seal ring of Figure 7;
    [090] Figure 8b is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a tube or hose coupling fitted over the end of an alternative L-shaped melt seal ring;
    [091] Figure 9 is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to Figure 8a and showing a support element incorporating an induction heater;
    [092] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to figure 8a and showing the establishment of a chemical bond in the sealing area after removal of the support element shown in figure 9;
    [093] Figure 11a is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the sealing area of figure 8a in more detail;
    [094] Figure 11b is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the sealing area of figure 10 in more detail.
    [095] Figure 12a is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the sealing area of figure 8b in more detail before activating an induction heater; and
    [096] Figure 12b is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the sealing area of figure 8b in more detail after activating an induction heater.
    [097] Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of one end of a flexible hose surrounded by an annular hose coupling 13. The innermost layer of the flexible hose is an inner liner of semicrystalline polymer 1 into which a material is embedded. reinforcement 2. In some embodiments (not shown) a flexible stainless steel interlock or housing can be arranged radially inside (i.e., under) the inner lining 1 and chemically bonded or crimped to it to form the innermost layer.
    [098] The inner lining 1 can be formed of any suitable type of semicrystalline thermoplastic, for example, polymers derived from polyolefins. Possible options include, but are not necessarily limited to: polypropylene; fully or partially cross-linked polyethylene; polyamides such as polyamide-polyimide; polyimide (PI) (PA6, PA11 or PA12); polyurethanes (PU); polyureas; polyesters; polyacetals; polyethers such as polyethersulfone (PES); polyoxides; polysulfides such as polyphenylene sulfide (PPS); polysulfones such as polyarylsulfone (PAS); polyacrylates; polyethylene terephthalate (PET); polyether-ether-ketones (PEEK); polyvinyls; polyacrylonitriles; polyethercetonacetone (PEKK). Additional options include copolymers of those indicated above such as fluorinated polymers; homopolymers or copolymers, for example, of trifluorethylene and (VF3) or tetrafluorethylene; copolymers or terpolymers comprising two or more different elements selected from VF2, VF3, chlorotrifluorethylene, tetrafluoroethylene, hexafluoropropene or hexafluoroethylene; polymer blends comprising one or more of the aforementioned polymers and composite materials, such as a previously mentioned polymer composed with reinforcing fibers such as glass fibers and / or carbon fibers and / or aramid fibers. The choice of semi-crystalline thermoplastic for a given application will depend on the expected service conditions specific to the flexible tube and possibly other considerations such as ease of manufacture and cost.
    [099] The inner lining 1 is surrounded by a consolidation fabric layer 8. Fabric layer 8 - which may include rubber - is surrounded by a steel sleeve 7 that increases in thickness towards the end of the flexible hose. The steel glove 7 is surrounded by one or more layers of reinforcement 9 comprising, for example, one or more helically wound layers of steel cord, steel wires or wires or wicks of glass / carbon / aramid fibers embedded in one layer rubber cushioning 10. The reinforcement layers 9 and the cushioning layers 10 can be provided in the form of tape which is wrapped around the inner lining 1 in one or more layers. Different layers can be rolled up at different winding angles.
    [0100] If present, the reinforcement material 2 within the inner lining 1 can be in the form of steel cord, steel wires or wires or strands of fibers helically wound with a winding angle between 25 degrees and 85 degrees in relation to longitudinal geometric axis 100 of the flexible hose (see figure 4a). Preferably, the winding angle will be as close as possible to the neutral angle of 54-55 degrees. The winding angle can be adjusted depending on particular requirements. However, the winding angle will normally not be less than 25 degrees or greater than 85 degrees to ensure controlled folding behavior. Exceptionally, the winding angle can be less than 25 degrees if the application requires the inner lining 1 to be collapsible (see figure 4b). In this specific case, the embedded reinforcement layers act as a reinforcement for the inner lining 1 which limits the elongation to a value less than the threshold elongation of the thermoplastic material of the inner lining. In one embodiment, one or more additional layers of the same reinforcement material 2 could be at different angles with compatible super-extruded thermoplastic materials to fully embed the respective additional reinforcement layers.
    [0101] The steel cord and / or steel wires can be wound in such a way that adjacent windings are locked. Reinforcement material 2 may also comprise fiber yarns and / or strands selected from the list comprising: glass fibers, carbon fibers, UHmwPE fibers (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) (Dyneema) and aramid fibers. It will be understood that this list is not exclusive. The reinforcement material may be a weave or textile fabric consisting of one or more of the materials mentioned above. Reinforcement material 2 can be provided in the form of a tape containing one or more of the materials mentioned above. Reinforcement material 2 can be over-extruded with the same semi-crystalline thermoplastic material from which the inner lining 1 is made. It is preferred that the reinforcement material 2 can accommodate shear deformation caused by the application of loads, for example, during bending. Therefore, the reinforcement material 2 is optionally not joined to the thermoplastic material of the inner lining 1 in which it is embedded.
    [0102] A heat source can be incorporated into the inner lining 1, for example, by adding a layer of electric heating traces above and / or below and / or between the reinforcement material 2 (also shown in figure 4b). It is essential that the heat generated is kept well below the melting point of the thermoplastic material of the inner lining 1. The heating trace elements may comprise separate conductive wires or may use steel cables or fabric or steel-based composite materials from reinforcement material 2 itself.
    [0103] The inner diameter of the annular hose coupling 13 increases in a generally scaled manner from left to right as seen in figure 1. A recessed part 3 is provided at one end of the hose coupling body 13 more close to its narrowest internal diameter. The term "recessed part" is to be understood in this context as defining the space of enlarged internal diameter limited by the hose coupling body, the cylindrical sleeve 6 and the inner layers 1, 8 of the flexible hose, that is, as indicated with the diagonal shading closely spaced in figures 1 and 5.
    [0104] The end part of the flexible hose is prepared to receive the hose coupling in a conventional way, for example, when curing and removing to progressively expose its underlying layers. A cylindrical inner sleeve 6 is disposed within the end portion of the flexible hose. The inner diameter defined by the inner sleeve 6 is selected to be substantially equal to the inner diameter of the flexible hose defined by its inner liner 1. The outer surface of the inner sleeve 6 tapers in the direction of the longitudinal geometric axis 100. As the sleeve inner 6 is inserted at the end of the flexible hose its tapered part (s) fits (m) with the innermost surface of the inner liner 1. Progressive insertion of the inner sleeve 6 into the flexible hose makes the inner diameter of the inner liner 1 expand as it is forced upward onto the tapered surface (s) of the inner sleeve 6.
    [0105] The recessed part 3 of the hose coupling 13 is partially closed by the inner sleeve 6 when the hose coupling is fitted over the expanded end of the flexible hose. Once positioned on its end, the hose coupling can optionally be crimped on the flexible hose from the outside. An epoxy resin 11 is introduced - via end caps 12 - into the area between the inner surface of the hose coupling body 13 and the bare layers of the flexible hose.
    [0106] Once the hose coupling is in place, the inner sleeve 6 therefore supports the expanded end part of the inner liner 1 within the recessed part 3 of the hose coupling body 13 together with one end of the hose layer. surrounding fabric 8 and steel sleeve 7. All three layers are compressed - for example, by crimping or embossing on the inside - between the outer surface of the inner sleeve 6 and an opposite surface of the hose coupling body 13 in a mode that closes the path between the recessed part 3 and the internal cylindrical volumes of the flexible hose and the body coupling 13.
    [0107] The internal volume of the recessed part 3 - then "the sealing area" - is limited by the inner wall of the coupling body 13 and - in a preferred embodiment - by the radial outer surface of the inner sleeve 6. A surface part of the inner wall of the coupling body 13 is inclined at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal geometric axis 100 of the flexible hose. The acute angle can be approximately 45 degrees. An end portion of the flexible hose - that is, its inner lining 1 and the fabric layer 8 - extends into the sealing area 3 as shown in more detail in figure 2a.
    [0108] Figures 3a and 3b show an alternative sealing area 3 through which the inner wall of the coupling body 13 and the radial outer surface of the inner sleeve 6 are provided with a serrated surface profile 16. The serrations 16 provide a connection improved mechanics between the surfaces within the sealing area 3 and the sealing material 15. As shown in figure 3b, the presence of the serrations 16 may mean that the bonding layer 14 only needs to be applied to any non-serrated surfaces within the area of sealing 3. A surface part of the inner wall of the coupling body 13 within the sealing area 3 is inclined at an obtuse angle with respect to the longitudinal geometric axis 100 of the flexible hose. The obtuse angle can be approximately 135 degrees. This serves to increase the surface area of the sealing connection between the sealing material 15 and the coupling body 13 and consequently further reinforces the connection.
    [0109] A passage is provided through an external surface of the hose coupling body 13 to provide access to the sealing area 3 through a removable end cap 5. In one embodiment, a non-elastomeric sealing material can be introduced in the sealing area 3 through the passage using a built-in nozzle connector 4. As shown in figure 2b, the sealing material 15 completely fills the sealing area 3 and can be cured to establish a chemical bond from polymer to polymer and from polymer for permanent metal between the end part of the inner lining 1 and the sealing material 15; and the surfaces of the hose coupling body 13 and the sealing material 15 respectively. As shown most clearly in Figures 2a and 3a, a steel or synthetic polymer ring 25 bearing an elastomeric sealing surface 22 is provided between an inner surface of the hose coupling body 13 and the inner layer 1 of the flexible hose. This performs the dual functions of: (ii) preventing epoxy resin, introduced via end caps 12, from entering the sealing area; and (ii) providing a compressive force to the layers between it and the inner sleeve 6 (i.e., via inner lining 1 and reinforcement material 2, if present).
    [0110] For some types of sealing material 15, complete joining between the respective surfaces within the sealing area 3 requires that they be coated with a bonding layer 14 before introducing the sealing material 15. The bonding layer can be applied using conventional electrostatic coating techniques. Applying a bonding layer can also add thermal insulation and mechanical strength to the connection within the sealing area 3.
    [0111] In one embodiment, the sealing material 15 comprises a semicrystalline non-elastomeric thermoplastic material such as an injection grade polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), perfluoralkoxy (PFA) or a crosslinked polyethylene (PEX). In one embodiment, each of the sealing material 15, the inner lining 1 and the bonding layer 14 comprises a non-elastomeric semicrystalline thermoplastic material. Ideally, the inner lining 1, the bonding layer 14 and the sealing material 15 are formed from the same non-elastomeric semicrystalline thermoplastic material in order to create a unique homogeneous polymer structure providing the best possible chemical bond between the coupling body hose 13 and the inner liner 1 within the sealing area 15.
    [0112] The homogeneous polymer structure, for example, based on the PVDF, PFA or PEX materials discussed above, will be substantially liquid impermeable at a pressure difference of the order of 5-10 bars (500-1,000 kPa). Consequently, any reinforcement material 2 embedded in the inner lining 1 is protected against corrosion. If the selected polymer structure is formed of a more liquid-permeable thermoplastic material then a fiber-based reinforcement material 2 (as described above) can be used as an alternative to steel. Where fiber-based material is undesirable, galvanized steel wire or cable can be used as a corrosion protection feature.
    [0113] All adjacent layers of the flexible hose are chemically bonded permanently to each other in a manner known in the art. However, in a preferred embodiment it is important that the joining process employed does not affect the unattached nature of the reinforcement material 2 within the inner liner 1 of the flexible hose. For example, the thermoplastic material, for example, PEX, can become cross-linked by adding reinforcement material 2,
    [0114] The thermoplastic material of the inner lining 1 is permanently and chemically bonded entirely to the surrounding rubberized reinforcement layers 9, 10. Consequently, shear deformation of the thermoplastic material of the inner lining 1 during folding and the application of combined loads can be minimized. The PVDF, PFA or PEX materials discussed above have sufficient bonding and mechanical properties for high pressure applications. If more inert and temperature resistant materials such as partially or entirely fluorinated thermoplastics are employed, additional production steps may be required to achieve full bonding. The term total bond is to be understood as meaning that the mechanical strength limit of the elastomer rubber or that of the thermoplastic layer is exceeded before the bond is broken. Since deformation and composite loads in a fully joined tube are supported by both the inner lining 1 and the surrounding rubber enclosed reinforcement layers 9, 10, this helps to avoid known flawed mechanisms and provides a significant performance improvement in flexible hoses.
    [0115] The outer layers of the flexible hose surrounding the closed rubber armor layers 9, 10 comprise an anti-wear layer 17 and an outer cover 18. These layers can be applied in the form of tapes and may comprise unidirectional, bidirectional or reinforcement material multidirectional selected from one or more of the types previously described. The outer layers can be over-extruded with a final thermoplastic layer. For example, an impact resistant layer 19 in the form of a UHmwPE (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) tape can be applied to provide extra impact resistance and anti-wear characteristics. An alternative arrangement (shown in figure 8b) may employ the layers of steel fabric / fibers hybridized or reinforced with fibers 26 in addition to the tapes, or instead, as an impact resistant layer. The outer layers extend over the coupling body 13 of the attached hose coupling.
    [0116] An alternative arrangement for the outer layer of the flexible hose is shown in figure 5 by which the stainless steel interlock 21 is used over a buffer layer of intermediate rubber 20. This arrangement may be more prone to damage within the pit area. drillship or platform than the alternative arrangement shown in figure 1.
    [0117] An alternative way of making a sealed connection between a hose and a metallic coupling element will now be described with reference to figures 6 to 12b. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the component layers of a hose that is substantially similar to that illustrated in figures 1 and 5. The component layers have been progressively removed in the direction of the free end of the hose (ie, on the left side of the figure 6) in preparation to attach a hose coupling to this in the manner described below.
    [0118] The innermost layer of the flexible hose is an inner liner of semicrystalline polymer 1 'into which a reinforcement material 2' is embedded. The inner lining is exposed at the free end of the hose and is formed with an angled chamfer at its distal end that is complementary in shape to an annular seat formed in the hose coupling 13 '(see the left side of the recess in figures 11a to 12b) . The inner lining 1 'can be formed of any suitable type of semicrystalline thermoplastic, for example, polyolefin derived polymers as already described above with reference to the embodiment of figure 1. The various layers surrounding the inner lining 1' have also been described previously with reference to the modality of figure 1 and thus need not be reproduced here. However, as shown in figures 6 to 12b, it is possible to remove the fabric layer 8 (shown in the embodiment of figures 1 to 5) because the internal reinforcement 2 'can be designed to assume its structural function.
    [0119] Figure 7 shows a fusible seal ring 23 which is slidably mounted on the exposed part of the inner liner 1 'on the free end of the hose. The fusible seal ring 23 is a hybrid of semicrystalline thermoplastic material (preferably of the same type as the inner lining) and metal particles selected from one or more of the group comprising: fibers, coarse grains, chips or fine powder. The particles can be supplied as a mixture of different sizes to ensure uniform distribution throughout the solid melt seal.
    [0120] Figure 8a shows an annular hose coupling 13 'which was fitted when pushed over the free end of the hose and properly aligned with the central longitudinal axis 100'. The hose coupling 13 'can be joined to the bare layers of the flexible hose. This is achieved in a known manner by first heating the hose coupling 13 '(for example, by means of an induction coil) and introducing an epoxy resin through the end caps 12'. In order to prevent epoxy resin from entering the sealing area, a metal or polymer ring 25 'carrying an elastomer sealing surface 22' is mounted above the inner lining 1 'adjacent to the steel sleeve 7'. The inner diameter of the annular hose coupling 13 'increases in a generally staggered manner from left to right as seen in figure 8a. A recessed part 3 'is provided at one end of the hose coupling body 13' closest to its smallest internal diameter and defines a sealing area.
    [0121] The term “recessed part” is to be understood in this context as defining the enlarged diameter internal space limited by the hose coupling body and the flexible hose inner liner, that is, including the volume within which the ring solid fusible seal 23 is seated. The closed radial passage through the end cap 5 'is initially empty as shown more clearly in figure 11a. A 4 'connector nozzle is provided inside this passage to allow connection of a vacuum hose. The recessed part can be provided with an annular seat into which an end part of the solid melt seal ring 23 can be received (see the left side of the recessed part 23 'in figures 8 to 12b). This ensures a secure mechanical interlock between the annular hose coupling 13 'and the fusible seal ring 23 before it is heated as described below.
    [0122] Figure 8b is similar to figure 8a, but shows an alternative arrangement whereby the fusible seal ring 23 'is L-shaped in cross section in order to extend over both the outer surface and the distal end of the inner lining 1 'at the free end of the hose. This arrangement is shown in more detail in figures 12a and 12b before and after activation of the induction heater, respectively.
    [0123] Figure 9 shows the same arrangement as figure 8a in which a support element - in the form of a sealed silicone rubber hose incorporating a heat induction coil - was introduced under the inner liner. In use, the sealed silicone rubber hose is inflated using an air supply line 29 in order to apply radial support pressure against the cylindrical inner wall of the inner lining 1 '. Before and / or during activation of the heatable induction coil via electrical connections 28, substantially all of the air is removed from the recessed part 3 '. By maintaining vacuum conditions through the connector nozzle 4 'within the recessed part 3' when the heated induction coil is activated, all air bubbles are removed. The heating process continues until the solid melt seal ring 23 becomes molten and increases in volume to fill the recessed part 3 'to a predetermined level as shown more clearly in figure 11b. This can be seen visually by checking the level of the sealing material through the end cap 5 '. The duration and temperature of the heating will vary depending on the hose design and material choices. During this process, the inflated rubber hose ensures that the cured seal is properly aligned.
    [0124] A bonding layer 14 'can be applied to the inner surface of the hose coupling 13' to provide a more reliable cohesive bond between the sealing material and the metallic (for example, steel) hose coupling. The choice of bonding layer 1 'will vary depending on the chemical composition of the thermoplastic material used in the sealing material. The cohesive connection, between the sealing material and the surface of the hose coupling 13 'within the sealing area, must be able to withstand the tendency that the inner lining 1' has to slip under high temperatures and / or pressures.
    [0125] Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view corresponding to figure 8b now showing the establishment of a chemical connection in the sealing area after removal of the sealed silicone rubber hose incorporating a heatable induction coil as shown in figure 9.
    [0126] It will be appreciated that the various embodiments of the present invention provide several advantages over existing arrangements for connecting a flexible hose to a hose coupling. More significantly, by providing a semicrystalline non-elastomeric sealing material within the sealing area that is the same (or chemically similar) to that of the inner liner of the flexible hose, a homogeneous polymer structure extends from the flexible hose all the way to inside the hose coupling, that is, the liner becomes the seal and the seal is the liner. This structure provides a moisture-proof and gas-proof barrier that is better able to withstand harsh production environments than known prior art products.
    [0127] Also, by embedding reinforcement material in the inner liner layer of the flexible hose, its connection to a hose coupling can be further strengthened and improved. The integration of a reinforcement material with the inner lining layer closest to the flexible hose core makes the bonded hose stronger and thus enables scaling down, if desired, of the external reinforcement layers. For example, the number of external rubber reinforcement layers or their size can be reduced. Consequently, it becomes possible to achieve a lighter and / or flexible hose system. An appropriately designed reinforced inner layer can also eliminate the need for an inner housing because the support function is now incorporated into the inner lining layer itself.
    [0128] The mode of figures 6 to 11b provides the additional advantage of eliminating all air pockets in the sealing area. This arrangement also eliminates the need to insert the inner cylindrical support sleeve 6 shown in figures 1 to 3 and 5. The process of expanding the sleeve to shape the overlap sealing area is also eliminated. Instead, the inner liner of the flexible hose becomes part of the seal and thus the process steps are significantly simplified and shortened.
    [0129] The various embodiments of the present invention provide a sealing arrangement that overcomes, or at least mitigates, one or more of the following problems associated with elastomeric seals. First, high temperatures cause softening of elastomers which results in an increased liquid / gas diffusion rate, thereby accelerating chemical degradation. This temperature related issue can arise regardless of high pressure considerations, however certainly high pressures will further exacerbate the problem.
    [0130] Modifications and improvements can be made to the foregoing without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the attached claims. For example, a possible alternative to the aforementionable sealable seal is a susceptor tape that can be wrapped around the outer surface of the flexible hose and its liner prior to fitting the hose coupling.
    权利要求:
    Claims (38)
    [0001]
    1. Flexible tube of synthetic polymer for the transport of high pressure and / or high temperature hydrocarbon liquids or gases comprising: (i) an internal coating layer (1); (ii) a layer of reinforcement (9) surrounding one end of the flexible tube; (iii) a tube coupling (13) disposed at the end of the tube and surrounding the reinforcement layer (9); (iv) a sealing area (3) defined by a lowered part of the tube coupling (13); and (v) a sealing material (15) disposed in the sealing area (3); wherein the inner lining layer (1) of said pipe end extends into the sealing area (3) and is joined to the sealing material (15), CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the sealing material (15) is non-elastomeric and both the sealing material (15) and the inner lining layer (1) of the flexible tube comprise the same class of synthetic polymer selected from the group comprising thermoplastics and thermosets.
    [0002]
    2. Flexible tube according to claim 1, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that each of the flexible tube and the sealing material (15) comprises a semicrystalline thermoplastic material.
    [0003]
    3. Flexible tube according to claim 1 or 2, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the sealing material (15) is supplied as an injectable molten synthetic fluid or polymer.
    [0004]
    4. Flexible tube according to claim 1 or 2, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the sealing material (15) is provided as a solid melt seal.
    [0005]
    5. Flexible tube according to claim 4, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the solid melt seal comprises metallic particles selected from one or more of the group comprising: fibers, coarse grains, chips or fine powder.
    [0006]
    6. Flexible tube, according to claim 5, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that different sizes of metallic particles are distributed throughout the solid melt seal.
    [0007]
    Flexible hose according to any one of claims 1 to 6, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that only the inner lining layer (1) of the flexible tube comprises a semicrystalline thermoplastic material that extends into the sealing area (3) .
    [0008]
    Flexible hose according to any one of claims 1 to 7, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that a reinforcement material (2) is provided entirely within the inner lining layer (1), but is not bonded to its semicrystalline thermoplastic material .
    [0009]
    9. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 1 to 7, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that a reinforcement material is supplied entirely within the inner lining layer (1) which is totally joined to its semicrystalline thermoplastic material by means of a adhesive bonding layer.
    [0010]
    10. Flexible tube according to claim 8 or 9, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the reinforcement material (2) comprises steel cord and / or helically wound steel wires.
    [0011]
    11. Flexible tube according to claim 10, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that two or more steel strands and / or steel wires helically separated are arranged in an interlocking mode.
    [0012]
    Flexible hose according to any one of claims 8 to 11, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the reinforcement material (2) is arranged within the inner lining layer (1) in a coiled way at an angle between 25 degrees and 85 degrees in relation to the longitudinal axis of the flexible tube.
    [0013]
    13. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 8 to 12, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the reinforcement material (2) comprises one or more strands and / or strands of fibers selected from the list comprising: glass fibers, carbon, UHmwPE fibers (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene) and aramid fibers.
    [0014]
    14. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 7 to 13, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that an electric heating element is provided within the inner covering layer.
    [0015]
    15. Flexible tube according to claim 14, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the electric heating element comprises one or more materials selected from the list comprising: conductive wires, conductive cables, conductive fabrics or conductive composites.
    [0016]
    16. Flexible tube according to any of claims 7 to 15, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the inner lining layer (1) is directly connected to the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the sealing material (15) by means of a polymer-to-polymer bond.
    [0017]
    17. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 7 to 16, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the sealing material (15) is directly connected to the tube coupling by means of a polymer-to-metal connection.
    [0018]
    18. Flexible tube according to any of claims 7 to 16, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the sealing material (15) is indirectly joined to the inner lining layer (1) and / or to the tube coupling by means of an intermediate adhesive bonding layer (14).
    [0019]
    19. Flexible tube according to claim 18, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the adhesive bonding layer (14) also comprises a semicrystalline thermoplastic material.
    [0020]
    20. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 2 to 19, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the inner lining layer (1) and / or the sealing material (15) is a polyvinylidene fluoride material (PVDF).
    [0021]
    21. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 2 to 19, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the inner lining layer (1) and / or the sealing material (15) is a cross-linked polyethylene material ( PEX).
    [0022]
    22. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 2 to 19, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the semicrystalline thermoplastic material of the inner lining layer (1) and / or the sealing material (15) is a perfluoroalkoxy material (PFA ).
    [0023]
    23. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 1 to 22, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the tube coupling is formed of a metal or a metal alloy.
    [0024]
    24. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 2 to 23, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that a cylindrical sleeve element (6) is arranged under the inner lining at the end of the flexible tube and cooperates with the tube coupling near the area sealing (3) to support part of the inner lining layer (1) extending into the sealing area (3).
    [0025]
    25. Flexible tube according to claim 24, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that an external surface of the cylindrical sleeve element (6) is inclined at an acute angle in relation to the central longitudinal geometric axis of the tube.
    [0026]
    26. Flexible tube according to any one of claims 2 to 25, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the inner lining layer (1) is coupled to the tube coupling by means of a crimp or stamped connection.
    [0027]
    27. Method of manufacturing a flexible synthetic polymer tube for the transport of high pressure and / or high temperature hydrocarbon liquids or gases, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that it comprises the steps of: (i) providing a tube coupling comprising a part recessed defining a sealing area (3); (ii) providing a flexible tube having an inner lining layer (1) and a reinforcement layer (9) surrounding the tube; (iii) providing a sealing material (15) for introduction into the sealing area (3); (iv) fit the tube coupling to the end of the hose; and (v) establishing a chemical bond from polymer to polymer and from polymer to permanent metal within the sealing area (3) between said pipe end and the sealing material (15); and the tube coupling and the sealing material (15) respectively; wherein the sealing material (15) is non-elastomeric and both the sealing material (15) and at least a part of the flexible tube are composed of the same class of synthetic polymer selected from the group comprising thermoplastics and thermosets.
    [0028]
    28. Method according to claim 27, CHARACTERIZED in that it includes the additional step of providing a reinforcement device (2) entirely within the flexible tube.
    [0029]
    29. The method of claim 27 or 28, characterized by the fact that a support element is introduced under an inner surface of said tube end before or after the step of fitting the tube coupling to the tube end.
    [0030]
    30. Method according to claim 29, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the support element is introduced before fitting the tube coupling in order to expand the diameter of the tube end, the expanded part being supported close to the sealing area once the tube coupling is engaged.
    [0031]
    31. Method according to any one of claims 27 to 30, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of establishing a permanent chemical bond within the sealing area (3) involves introducing the sealing material (15) into the sealing area seal (3) by injection through a passage connecting the sealing area (3) to the outside of the pipe coupling.
    [0032]
    32. Method according to claim 29 or 30, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of establishing a permanent chemical bond within the sealing area involves introducing the sealing material (15) into the sealing area (3) at the mount a solid fusible seal on the pipe, close to the pipe end, before fitting the pipe coupling to the pipe end.
    [0033]
    33. Method, according to claim 32, CHARACTERIZED in that the step of fitting the tube coupling to the tube end is followed by the step of introducing the support element under an internal surface of said tube end, the support element incorporating a heater that fuses the solid melt seal within the seal area.
    [0034]
    34. Method according to claim 33, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of introducing the support element involves employing an inflatable support element which is temporarily inflated against the inner surface of said tube end while the permanent chemical bond is established.
    [0035]
    35. Method according to claim 33, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of introducing the support element is followed by permanently stamping the support element against the inner surface of said tube end.
    [0036]
    36. Method according to any one of claims 33 to 35, CHARACTERIZED in that the step of casting the solid melt seal within the seal area (3) is accompanied by the step of applying a vacuum to remove substantially all of the air the sealing area (3).
    [0037]
    37. Method according to any one of claims 27 to 36, CHARACTERIZED in that the steps of providing a flexible tube and providing a sealing material (15) includes providing a tube and sealing material (15) comprising a material semicrystalline thermoplastic.
    [0038]
    38. Method according to any of claims 27 to 37, CHARACTERIZED by the fact that the step of establishing a permanent chemical bond involves cooling the sealing material.
    类似技术:
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    EP3216586A1|2017-09-13|
    EA029803B1|2018-05-31|
    SA515360463B1|2017-11-01|
    US20150252929A1|2015-09-10|
    CN104918769B|2017-09-22|
    EA201590924A1|2015-12-30|
    JP2016156505A|2016-09-01|
    EP2922686A1|2015-09-30|
    CA2891970A1|2014-05-30|
    EP2922686B1|2017-05-17|
    AU2013349478B2|2018-08-09|
    US20150330536A1|2015-11-19|
    BR112015011873A2|2017-07-11|
    CN106287021B|2018-12-07|
    JP2016505773A|2016-02-25|
    US9587772B2|2017-03-07|
    EP3216586B1|2021-06-16|
    GB201221034D0|2013-01-09|
    EA029802B9|2018-12-28|
    US20170175940A1|2017-06-22|
    AU2018203901A1|2018-06-28|
    EA201590859A1|2015-11-30|
    KR20150088274A|2015-07-31|
    GB201320681D0|2014-01-08|
    CA3081866A1|2014-05-30|
    CN106287021A|2017-01-04|
    SA517381699B1|2021-12-13|
    CA2891970C|2021-07-06|
    AU2018203901B2|2020-07-02|
    GB2510669A|2014-08-13|
    MY168500A|2018-11-12|
    JP6216401B2|2017-10-18|
    AU2013349478A1|2015-06-04|
    BR122016027370A2|2019-08-27|
    GB2510669B|2020-05-20|
    WO2014080216A1|2014-05-30|
    US10066765B2|2018-09-04|
    CN104918769A|2015-09-16|
    EA029802B1|2018-05-31|
    JP5927354B2|2016-06-01|
    KR101650734B1|2016-08-24|
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    法律状态:
    2018-03-06| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2018-03-13| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2018-03-20| B06I| Publication of requirement cancelled [chapter 6.9 patent gazette]|Free format text: ANULADA A PUBLICACAO CODIGO 6.6.1 NA RPI NO 2462 DE 13/03/2018 POR TER SIDO INDEVIDA. |
    2019-12-10| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2020-06-09| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2020-11-24| B25A| Requested transfer of rights approved|Owner name: GTF 2 ENGINEERING AND SERVICES UK LTD. (GB) |
    2020-12-01| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 22/11/2013, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    2020-12-01| B25D| Requested change of name of applicant approved|Owner name: GATES ENGINEERING AND SERVICES UK LIMITED (GB) |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    GB201221034A|GB201221034D0|2012-11-22|2012-11-22|Flexible pipe coupling|
    GB1221034.0|2012-11-22|
    PCT/GB2013/053089|WO2014080216A1|2012-11-22|2013-11-22|Flexible pipe and coupling therefor|BR122016027370-9A| BR122016027370B1|2012-11-22|2013-11-22|ELASTOMERIC FLEXIBLE HOSE AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING IT|
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