CA1196298A - Flange protector - Google Patents
Flange protectorInfo
- Publication number
- CA1196298A CA1196298A CA000434630A CA434630A CA1196298A CA 1196298 A CA1196298 A CA 1196298A CA 000434630 A CA000434630 A CA 000434630A CA 434630 A CA434630 A CA 434630A CA 1196298 A CA1196298 A CA 1196298A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- flange
- cover
- bolt holes
- protector
- machined surface
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D59/00—Plugs, sleeves, caps, or like rigid or semi-rigid elements for protecting parts of articles or for bundling articles, e.g. protectors for screw-threads, end caps for tubes or for bundling rod-shaped articles
- B65D59/06—Caps
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L—PIPES; JOINTS OR FITTINGS FOR PIPES; SUPPORTS FOR PIPES, CABLES OR PROTECTIVE TUBING; MEANS FOR THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16L57/00—Protection of pipes or objects of similar shape against external or internal damage or wear
- F16L57/005—Protection of pipes or objects of similar shape against external or internal damage or wear specially adapted for the ends of pipes
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D59/00—Plugs, sleeves, caps, or like rigid or semi-rigid elements for protecting parts of articles or for bundling articles, e.g. protectors for screw-threads, end caps for tubes or for bundling rod-shaped articles
Abstract
ABSTRACT
A flange protector (P) is adapted for attachment to a machined surface (S) of a flange (F) of the type having an annular ridge (20) and a plurality of bolt holes (14), which bolt holes (14) extend from surface (S) through the flange. A cover (10) of flexible material has one side (10s) shaped substantially conforming to the shape of the machined surface (S) and extends over the bolt holes (14) to engage and protect the machined surface (S). A
plurality of fastening means (M) extend from the engaging side (10s) of the cover (10) for frictionally engaging the interior surface (14i) of bolt holes (14) to retain the engaging side (10s) in engagement with surface (S). Each fastening means (M) includes an elongated tubular shank (12) extending from the cover (10) to an open end (12e).
Each tubular shank (12) is hollow, having an inner bore (12b) substantially from the cover (10) to the open end (12e). The length of tubular shank (12) is shorter than the length of the bolt holes (14) which extend through the flange to avoid inadvertent unseating of the protector.
A flange protector (P) is adapted for attachment to a machined surface (S) of a flange (F) of the type having an annular ridge (20) and a plurality of bolt holes (14), which bolt holes (14) extend from surface (S) through the flange. A cover (10) of flexible material has one side (10s) shaped substantially conforming to the shape of the machined surface (S) and extends over the bolt holes (14) to engage and protect the machined surface (S). A
plurality of fastening means (M) extend from the engaging side (10s) of the cover (10) for frictionally engaging the interior surface (14i) of bolt holes (14) to retain the engaging side (10s) in engagement with surface (S). Each fastening means (M) includes an elongated tubular shank (12) extending from the cover (10) to an open end (12e).
Each tubular shank (12) is hollow, having an inner bore (12b) substantially from the cover (10) to the open end (12e). The length of tubular shank (12) is shorter than the length of the bolt holes (14) which extend through the flange to avoid inadvertent unseating of the protector.
Description
~36Z~I~
APPLICATION FOR PATENT
INVENTORS JOHN S. SMITH and DONALD R. ROGERS
TITLE: FLANGE PROTECTQR
SPECIFICATION
Back~round of the Invention 1. Field of the Invention _ This inYention relates to the field of flange protectors for attachment to a machined surface of a flange, and more particularly to improved flanye protectoxs constructed from resilient materials and attached to a flange by ~rictional engagement.
APPLICATION FOR PATENT
INVENTORS JOHN S. SMITH and DONALD R. ROGERS
TITLE: FLANGE PROTECTQR
SPECIFICATION
Back~round of the Invention 1. Field of the Invention _ This inYention relates to the field of flange protectors for attachment to a machined surface of a flange, and more particularly to improved flanye protectoxs constructed from resilient materials and attached to a flange by ~rictional engagement.
2. Description of the Prior Art Fluid handling devices such as p-~ps, valves and pipes customarily have flanges on their ends to make fluid-tight connections. These flanges often have machined surfac~s with a plurali~y of bolt holes for use in attaching adjacent flanges or devices together.
In order to maint~in a fluid-tight connection, the flan~es are frequently protected during their transportation by having a ~lange protector attached to the machined surface. One such flange protector was disclosed in U.S. patent No. 4,014,368, which was a one piece protector made from a flexible impact resistant ~0 material. A cover that enga~ed the outer surface of ~he flange was installed and removed b~ finger pressure on ~he exposed ~losed ends of integral hollow thimble-like fasteners which frictionally engaged the walls of the bolt Z~3~
holes of the ~lange. The -thimble-like fasteners had open upper end~ and closed lower ends protruding through the bottom of the bolt hole and accessible to finger pressure for pushing the fasteners out of the holes. The length of S the body of the thimble-like fasteners was individualized for each flange such that the bottom portion extended through the hole for accessibility to finger pressure.
Because the -thimble-like fastener protruded from the flange, the flange protector was exposed to possible inadvertent unseating fxom the flange.
U.S. patent No. 3,856,059 disclosed anothex flange protector that had a plate of flexible material for attachment to a machined surface of the flange. A
plurality of elongated connector means with bulbous end portions were integrally molded with the plate. The elongated co~nector means er.gaged the bolt openings and the bulbous portions held the protector in position on the flange. To remove ~he protector from the flange, the head portion or bulbous portion was severed from ~he connector means, allowing the protector to slide off the flange.
The exposed bulbous portion was susceptible to ~eing unintentionally severed which allowed the flan~- protec-tor cover to be separated from the machined surace flange a~d exposed the machined surface to damage.
U.S. patent No. 3,942,681 disclosed a fla~ge protect~r ~hat had a disk covering the machined surface of the flange ~ith a plurality of plugs on the disk which fitted closely wi~hin certain bolt holes. Additionally, fasteners were extended through the plug and b~lt hole for bending ~he end of the fastener to retain the disk in place. The disk had an annular ridge to substantially fill a groove ring in -the machined surface of the flange.
To remove the flange protector, the ends of the fasteners were bent down and the disk lifted from the ~lange. The fasteners were -~hin sheet metal strips having enlarged heads with bendable lower portions. The fasteners were in ~;7c,qt)/l /1-1-1 /1
In order to maint~in a fluid-tight connection, the flan~es are frequently protected during their transportation by having a ~lange protector attached to the machined surface. One such flange protector was disclosed in U.S. patent No. 4,014,368, which was a one piece protector made from a flexible impact resistant ~0 material. A cover that enga~ed the outer surface of ~he flange was installed and removed b~ finger pressure on ~he exposed ~losed ends of integral hollow thimble-like fasteners which frictionally engaged the walls of the bolt Z~3~
holes of the ~lange. The -thimble-like fasteners had open upper end~ and closed lower ends protruding through the bottom of the bolt hole and accessible to finger pressure for pushing the fasteners out of the holes. The length of S the body of the thimble-like fasteners was individualized for each flange such that the bottom portion extended through the hole for accessibility to finger pressure.
Because the -thimble-like fastener protruded from the flange, the flange protector was exposed to possible inadvertent unseating fxom the flange.
U.S. patent No. 3,856,059 disclosed anothex flange protector that had a plate of flexible material for attachment to a machined surface of the flange. A
plurality of elongated connector means with bulbous end portions were integrally molded with the plate. The elongated co~nector means er.gaged the bolt openings and the bulbous portions held the protector in position on the flange. To remove ~he protector from the flange, the head portion or bulbous portion was severed from ~he connector means, allowing the protector to slide off the flange.
The exposed bulbous portion was susceptible to ~eing unintentionally severed which allowed the flan~- protec-tor cover to be separated from the machined surace flange a~d exposed the machined surface to damage.
U.S. patent No. 3,942,681 disclosed a fla~ge protect~r ~hat had a disk covering the machined surface of the flange ~ith a plurality of plugs on the disk which fitted closely wi~hin certain bolt holes. Additionally, fasteners were extended through the plug and b~lt hole for bending ~he end of the fastener to retain the disk in place. The disk had an annular ridge to substantially fill a groove ring in -the machined surface of the flange.
To remove the flange protector, the ends of the fasteners were bent down and the disk lifted from the ~lange. The fasteners were -~hin sheet metal strips having enlarged heads with bendable lower portions. The fasteners were in ~;7c,qt)/l /1-1-1 /1
-3-a metal-to metal contact with the interior surface of the bolt holes in the flange.
U.s. patent No. 3,563,277 disclosed a flange protector formed from a plastic plate that had holes for alignment with the holes in the flange. At least a pair of separ2te and removable retaining plugs fitted ~hrough the holes in the plate and held the plate in contact with the machine surface by ~rictiona~ly engaging wi~h the inner surface of the flange bolt holes.
Other flange protectors and thread protectors are generally described in U.S. patent Nos. 3,~21,673;
3,463,196; 2,082,144; 2,028,576; and, 1,9~3,~20. Patent No. 3,921,673 disclosed a protective insert for a line flange conduit used at the juncture of the flange and the conduit. Patent No. 3,463,196 disclosed a ~hin ring flange protector that had plugs extending from one side for fitting within certain of the flange holes. Th~ ring also had annular ridges for disposal within grooves in the machine surface of the flange. U.S. patent 2,028,576 disclosed a metal cap that had a narrow a~nular flange to overlie the end of the pipe for securing the cap to the pipe. U.S. patent No. 2,OB2,144 disclosed a ~hread protector particularly for ~hreaded box and joint ends of sucker rods.
U.S. patent No. 3,942,680 disclosed a cap for use in spray painting. U.S. patent Nos. 3,233,50~ and 3,233,503 disclosed generally resilient fasteners with hollow sha~ks to secure t~o members together.
The present flange protector frictionally engages -the interior wall surface o~ the bolt holes in the flange to maintain the cover in contact Wi~l the machined surface of the flange, The integral ~ubular shanks which extend from the cover have an open end and are shorter than the length of the bolt holes in order that ~he tubular shanks do not protrude from the flange. Since the ends of the tubular shanks are not exposed beyond the bolt holes. The cover cannot be unseated unless a force is applied internal~y of fi7~n/~
the shanks, whereby inadvertent unseating of the cover is inhibited.
_mmary of the Invention The present invention relates to a new and improved flange protector adapted for attachment to a machined surface of a flange of the type having an annular edge and a plurality of ~olt holes extending ~hrou~h ~le flange. A
cover of flexible material has one side shaped so as to substantially conform to the shape of the machined surface and extending over the bolt holes for engaging substantially all of the machined surface. A plurality of fastening means extends from the side of the co~er which engages the machined surface for frictionally engaging the innex wall or surface of the bolt holes to frictionally retain ~he c~ver in the desired engagement with the entire machined surface. Each of the integral fastening means includes an elongated tubular shank, each of which extends from the co~er and has an open end. The tubular shank is substantially hollow and has a shorter length than the length of the bolt holes in the flange being protected.
Since the shanks do not extend through the bolt holes of the flange, the tubular shanks are not unseated or disengaged from the machined surface of the flange unless a positive force is applied internally of the shanks, thereby inhibiting inadvertent unseating of the cover relative to the machined surface of the flange. When desired, the flange protector is removed by inserting a tool or a finger into ~he lower end of ~hP bolt hole and pushing against ~he cover until the tubular shanks are released from their frictional engagement wi~h the interior wall or surface of the bol~ holes.
Brief DescriDtion of the Drawings Fig. 1 is a series of views showing in sequence from left to right the present flange protector as it is positioned in the seated position on a flange;
Fig. 2 is ~ cross-sectional view of ~he present flange protector engaging a flange having an annular 67590/1/1~1-1/1 9~
groove therein, a plurality of bolt holes, and a centrally disp~sed bore;
Fig. 3 is another embodiment of the flange protector in seated position on a sealing flange plate having an annular groove; and, Fig. 4 is yet another embodiment of the present flange protector in seated position on a flange having an annular shoulder, and a centrally disposed threaded bore.
Descri~tion of the Preferred Embodiment Referring now to the drawings, a flange protector P
is adapted for attachment to a machined surface S of a ~lange F of the type having a~ annular edge 20 and a plurality of bolt holes 14, with the bolt holes 14 - extending from surface S -through the flange.
The protector P includes a co~er 10 of flexible material such as molded polyethylene, polystyrene or rubber which has one side lOs shaped so as to substantially conform to the shape of the machined surface S. The cover 10 extends o~er the bolt holes 14 and preferably the entire surface S for engaging and protecting such machined surface S. At least one fastening means M extends from the engaging side lOs of the cover 10 for frictionally engaging at least a portion of the interior wall or surface 14i of a bolt hole 14 to retain the engaging side lOs in the desired engagement with the machined surface S. Each fastening means M
includes an elongated tubular shank 12 which extends from the cover 10 to an open end 12eO Each tubular shank 12 is hollow having an inner bore 12b substantially from the cover 10 to the open end 12e. Each tubular shank 12 has a length shorter than the length of the bolt hole 14 in which it is positioned.
Fig. 1 shows ~he preferred embodiment of ~he flange protector P of the present invention in a seguence of views from left to right, with the protector shown in a front or elevational view at the extreme left, and in an unassembled position with the flange in the center ~7~qn/l /1-1-1 /1 --,--perspective view~ and in the assembled position wi~h the flange in the extreme right perspective view. The cover 10 has an annular ridge 16 on the engaging surface lOs for substantially filling an annular groove 2~ formed in the machined surface S of flange F. A plurality of the fastening means M is preferably provided and preferably a fastening means M is provided ~or at least four spaced apart bolt holes 14, and each of which fastening means M
extends from the co~er 10 and is aligned with one of ~he bol-t holes 14 such that the pressing of the fastening means M into the corresponding holes 14 brings the engaging surface lOs into frictional engagement with the machined surface S of flange F.
Referring more particularly to Fig. 2 wherein ~he embodiment of the protector P shown in ~ig. 1 is ~urther illustrated, it can be seen ~hat the annular edge 20 of flange F has a beveled or tapered edge ~Ob adjacent to the machined surface S. The cover 10 has a tapered or beveled edge lOb wnich is tapered to confor~ to the beveled edge 20b of flange F. When protector P is attached, the ed~es lOb and 20b form a continuous surface to reduce the opportunity for inadvertent prying of the flange protector P away ~rom the machine surface S of flange F.
The cover 10 in Fig. 1 is shown to be flat; however, if the pre~ent flange protector P is molded from polyethylene or the like, the cover 1~ may not be flat.
Aftex the flange protector P is removed from the mold, some shrinkage and warping in cover 10 may occur during cooling of the flange protector P. The fastening means M
remain in substantial alignment with the bolt holes 14.
When the plurality of fastening means M are pressed into frictional engagement with the bolt holes 14, the cover 10 is brought into conformance and tight engagement with ~he machined surface S and any warpage disappears.
Operation A flange protector P of the present invention is first molded or otherwise formed such that the engaging ~7~an/l /1-1-1 /1 I
surface lOs con~orms to the shape of the machined sur~ace S and the fastening shanks 12 align with the bolt holes 14. Each one of the plurality of fastening means M of the flange protector P is then aligned with one of the corresponding bolt holes 14. Once aligned, the protector P is pressed by hand or other suitable means into engagement with the machined surface S. The frictional engagement between the outer surface 120 of the shanks 12 with the inner wall or s--rface 14i of bolt holes 14 retains protector P tightly in engagement with ~lange F.
To disengage the flange protector P from flange F, a tool having a blunt end, such as a rod, screwdriver or ~h~
like, or a person's finger is inserted into each bore 12b of each tubular shank 12 to force the protector P out o~
seated engagement with bolt holes 14 and machined surace S and allowing the removal of the protector P from the flange F.
Alternative Embodiments Figs. 3 and 4 are two alternative embodiments of the present flange protec~or P of Fig. 2. All of the parts in Figs. 3 and 4 bear the same letters and numerals as the correspollding parts in Fig. 2, except those that have been modified, and they have the same numerals preceded by ~he numeral "1" for Fig. 3 and the numeral i'2" for Fig. 4.
Flange protector P-l of Fig. 3 is engaged with the machined surface S-l of flange F-l. Flange F-l is of the plate-type which seals a complementary flange. Machined surface S-l has shoulders 124 positioned between annular groove 22 and bolt holes 14. Correspondingly, cover 110 of protector P-l is formed with shoulders 126 and annular ring 116 to conform the shape of the engaging surface llOs to the shape Gf the machined surface S-l.
The flange protector P-2 of Fig. 4 engages ~lange F-2 having threads 28 in an interior bore 218 and having shoulders 224 positioned between bolt holes 14 and bore 218. Correspondingly, co~er 210 is formed with shoulders f;7C9()/l /1-l-l t1 -~ -2~6 bringing en~aging surface 210s into s~stantial conformance with the shape of machined surface S-2.
~ astening means M in Figs. 3 and 4 are the sa~.e as described above with reference to Fig, 2 and ~rictionally engage the interior 14i of bolt holes 14.
The operation of the flange protectors P 1 of Fig. 3 and P-2 o~ Fig. 4 is the same as described above with reference to the flange protector P of Fig. 2.
The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention are illustrative and explanatory thexeof, and various changes in the size, sh~pe and materials~ as well as in the details of the illustrated constxuctlon may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.
f 7~c~nJ~ /1-1-1/1
U.s. patent No. 3,563,277 disclosed a flange protector formed from a plastic plate that had holes for alignment with the holes in the flange. At least a pair of separ2te and removable retaining plugs fitted ~hrough the holes in the plate and held the plate in contact with the machine surface by ~rictiona~ly engaging wi~h the inner surface of the flange bolt holes.
Other flange protectors and thread protectors are generally described in U.S. patent Nos. 3,~21,673;
3,463,196; 2,082,144; 2,028,576; and, 1,9~3,~20. Patent No. 3,921,673 disclosed a protective insert for a line flange conduit used at the juncture of the flange and the conduit. Patent No. 3,463,196 disclosed a ~hin ring flange protector that had plugs extending from one side for fitting within certain of the flange holes. Th~ ring also had annular ridges for disposal within grooves in the machine surface of the flange. U.S. patent 2,028,576 disclosed a metal cap that had a narrow a~nular flange to overlie the end of the pipe for securing the cap to the pipe. U.S. patent No. 2,OB2,144 disclosed a ~hread protector particularly for ~hreaded box and joint ends of sucker rods.
U.S. patent No. 3,942,680 disclosed a cap for use in spray painting. U.S. patent Nos. 3,233,50~ and 3,233,503 disclosed generally resilient fasteners with hollow sha~ks to secure t~o members together.
The present flange protector frictionally engages -the interior wall surface o~ the bolt holes in the flange to maintain the cover in contact Wi~l the machined surface of the flange, The integral ~ubular shanks which extend from the cover have an open end and are shorter than the length of the bolt holes in order that ~he tubular shanks do not protrude from the flange. Since the ends of the tubular shanks are not exposed beyond the bolt holes. The cover cannot be unseated unless a force is applied internal~y of fi7~n/~
the shanks, whereby inadvertent unseating of the cover is inhibited.
_mmary of the Invention The present invention relates to a new and improved flange protector adapted for attachment to a machined surface of a flange of the type having an annular edge and a plurality of ~olt holes extending ~hrou~h ~le flange. A
cover of flexible material has one side shaped so as to substantially conform to the shape of the machined surface and extending over the bolt holes for engaging substantially all of the machined surface. A plurality of fastening means extends from the side of the co~er which engages the machined surface for frictionally engaging the innex wall or surface of the bolt holes to frictionally retain ~he c~ver in the desired engagement with the entire machined surface. Each of the integral fastening means includes an elongated tubular shank, each of which extends from the co~er and has an open end. The tubular shank is substantially hollow and has a shorter length than the length of the bolt holes in the flange being protected.
Since the shanks do not extend through the bolt holes of the flange, the tubular shanks are not unseated or disengaged from the machined surface of the flange unless a positive force is applied internally of the shanks, thereby inhibiting inadvertent unseating of the cover relative to the machined surface of the flange. When desired, the flange protector is removed by inserting a tool or a finger into ~he lower end of ~hP bolt hole and pushing against ~he cover until the tubular shanks are released from their frictional engagement wi~h the interior wall or surface of the bol~ holes.
Brief DescriDtion of the Drawings Fig. 1 is a series of views showing in sequence from left to right the present flange protector as it is positioned in the seated position on a flange;
Fig. 2 is ~ cross-sectional view of ~he present flange protector engaging a flange having an annular 67590/1/1~1-1/1 9~
groove therein, a plurality of bolt holes, and a centrally disp~sed bore;
Fig. 3 is another embodiment of the flange protector in seated position on a sealing flange plate having an annular groove; and, Fig. 4 is yet another embodiment of the present flange protector in seated position on a flange having an annular shoulder, and a centrally disposed threaded bore.
Descri~tion of the Preferred Embodiment Referring now to the drawings, a flange protector P
is adapted for attachment to a machined surface S of a ~lange F of the type having a~ annular edge 20 and a plurality of bolt holes 14, with the bolt holes 14 - extending from surface S -through the flange.
The protector P includes a co~er 10 of flexible material such as molded polyethylene, polystyrene or rubber which has one side lOs shaped so as to substantially conform to the shape of the machined surface S. The cover 10 extends o~er the bolt holes 14 and preferably the entire surface S for engaging and protecting such machined surface S. At least one fastening means M extends from the engaging side lOs of the cover 10 for frictionally engaging at least a portion of the interior wall or surface 14i of a bolt hole 14 to retain the engaging side lOs in the desired engagement with the machined surface S. Each fastening means M
includes an elongated tubular shank 12 which extends from the cover 10 to an open end 12eO Each tubular shank 12 is hollow having an inner bore 12b substantially from the cover 10 to the open end 12e. Each tubular shank 12 has a length shorter than the length of the bolt hole 14 in which it is positioned.
Fig. 1 shows ~he preferred embodiment of ~he flange protector P of the present invention in a seguence of views from left to right, with the protector shown in a front or elevational view at the extreme left, and in an unassembled position with the flange in the center ~7~qn/l /1-1-1 /1 --,--perspective view~ and in the assembled position wi~h the flange in the extreme right perspective view. The cover 10 has an annular ridge 16 on the engaging surface lOs for substantially filling an annular groove 2~ formed in the machined surface S of flange F. A plurality of the fastening means M is preferably provided and preferably a fastening means M is provided ~or at least four spaced apart bolt holes 14, and each of which fastening means M
extends from the co~er 10 and is aligned with one of ~he bol-t holes 14 such that the pressing of the fastening means M into the corresponding holes 14 brings the engaging surface lOs into frictional engagement with the machined surface S of flange F.
Referring more particularly to Fig. 2 wherein ~he embodiment of the protector P shown in ~ig. 1 is ~urther illustrated, it can be seen ~hat the annular edge 20 of flange F has a beveled or tapered edge ~Ob adjacent to the machined surface S. The cover 10 has a tapered or beveled edge lOb wnich is tapered to confor~ to the beveled edge 20b of flange F. When protector P is attached, the ed~es lOb and 20b form a continuous surface to reduce the opportunity for inadvertent prying of the flange protector P away ~rom the machine surface S of flange F.
The cover 10 in Fig. 1 is shown to be flat; however, if the pre~ent flange protector P is molded from polyethylene or the like, the cover 1~ may not be flat.
Aftex the flange protector P is removed from the mold, some shrinkage and warping in cover 10 may occur during cooling of the flange protector P. The fastening means M
remain in substantial alignment with the bolt holes 14.
When the plurality of fastening means M are pressed into frictional engagement with the bolt holes 14, the cover 10 is brought into conformance and tight engagement with ~he machined surface S and any warpage disappears.
Operation A flange protector P of the present invention is first molded or otherwise formed such that the engaging ~7~an/l /1-1-1 /1 I
surface lOs con~orms to the shape of the machined sur~ace S and the fastening shanks 12 align with the bolt holes 14. Each one of the plurality of fastening means M of the flange protector P is then aligned with one of the corresponding bolt holes 14. Once aligned, the protector P is pressed by hand or other suitable means into engagement with the machined surface S. The frictional engagement between the outer surface 120 of the shanks 12 with the inner wall or s--rface 14i of bolt holes 14 retains protector P tightly in engagement with ~lange F.
To disengage the flange protector P from flange F, a tool having a blunt end, such as a rod, screwdriver or ~h~
like, or a person's finger is inserted into each bore 12b of each tubular shank 12 to force the protector P out o~
seated engagement with bolt holes 14 and machined surace S and allowing the removal of the protector P from the flange F.
Alternative Embodiments Figs. 3 and 4 are two alternative embodiments of the present flange protec~or P of Fig. 2. All of the parts in Figs. 3 and 4 bear the same letters and numerals as the correspollding parts in Fig. 2, except those that have been modified, and they have the same numerals preceded by ~he numeral "1" for Fig. 3 and the numeral i'2" for Fig. 4.
Flange protector P-l of Fig. 3 is engaged with the machined surface S-l of flange F-l. Flange F-l is of the plate-type which seals a complementary flange. Machined surface S-l has shoulders 124 positioned between annular groove 22 and bolt holes 14. Correspondingly, cover 110 of protector P-l is formed with shoulders 126 and annular ring 116 to conform the shape of the engaging surface llOs to the shape Gf the machined surface S-l.
The flange protector P-2 of Fig. 4 engages ~lange F-2 having threads 28 in an interior bore 218 and having shoulders 224 positioned between bolt holes 14 and bore 218. Correspondingly, co~er 210 is formed with shoulders f;7C9()/l /1-l-l t1 -~ -2~6 bringing en~aging surface 210s into s~stantial conformance with the shape of machined surface S-2.
~ astening means M in Figs. 3 and 4 are the sa~.e as described above with reference to Fig, 2 and ~rictionally engage the interior 14i of bolt holes 14.
The operation of the flange protectors P 1 of Fig. 3 and P-2 o~ Fig. 4 is the same as described above with reference to the flange protector P of Fig. 2.
The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention are illustrative and explanatory thexeof, and various changes in the size, sh~pe and materials~ as well as in the details of the illustrated constxuctlon may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.
f 7~c~nJ~ /1-1-1/1
Claims (2)
1. A flange protector adapted for attachment to a flange of the type having a machined surface, an annular edge and a plurality of bolt holes, the bolt holes extending through the flange, comprising:
a circular shaped cover of flexible material having an outer annular beveled edge;
said cover having one side formed to conform to the shape of the machined surface of the flange and extending over and closing the upper ends of the bolt holes and having said annular beveled edge disposed at the annular edge of the flange so that the cover engages the entire machined surface and the annular beveled edge inhibits inadvertent displacement of the cover from the flange;
a plurality of fastening means extending from said one side of said cover for frictionally engaging the inner wall of bolt holes in a flange to retain said one side of said cover in engagement with the machined surface of the flange, each of said fastening means includes:
an elongated tubular shank extending from said cover to an open end;
said tubular shank being hollow substantially from said cover to said open end; and, said tubular shank having a shorter length than the length of the bolt holes extending through the flange.
a circular shaped cover of flexible material having an outer annular beveled edge;
said cover having one side formed to conform to the shape of the machined surface of the flange and extending over and closing the upper ends of the bolt holes and having said annular beveled edge disposed at the annular edge of the flange so that the cover engages the entire machined surface and the annular beveled edge inhibits inadvertent displacement of the cover from the flange;
a plurality of fastening means extending from said one side of said cover for frictionally engaging the inner wall of bolt holes in a flange to retain said one side of said cover in engagement with the machined surface of the flange, each of said fastening means includes:
an elongated tubular shank extending from said cover to an open end;
said tubular shank being hollow substantially from said cover to said open end; and, said tubular shank having a shorter length than the length of the bolt holes extending through the flange.
2. The invention of claim 1 including:
an annular ridge formed integrally on said one side of said cover for substantially filling an annular groove in the flange.
an annular ridge formed integrally on said one side of said cover for substantially filling an annular groove in the flange.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US06/408,136 US4423753A (en) | 1982-08-16 | 1982-08-16 | Flange protector |
| US408,136 | 1982-08-16 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1196298A true CA1196298A (en) | 1985-11-05 |
Family
ID=23615000
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000434630A Expired CA1196298A (en) | 1982-08-16 | 1983-08-15 | Flange protector |
Country Status (10)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US4423753A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0101289B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPS5962463A (en) |
| KR (1) | KR890004170B1 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU553552B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1196298A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE3377056D1 (en) |
| ES (1) | ES282220Y (en) |
| MX (1) | MX158969A (en) |
| PT (1) | PT77200B (en) |
Families Citing this family (25)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4534572A (en) * | 1984-12-20 | 1985-08-13 | Dana Corporation | Port baffle for engine gasket |
| US4660694A (en) * | 1985-03-07 | 1987-04-28 | Automotive Products Plc | Prefilled hydraulic control apparatus for motor vehicle mechanical clutch |
| US4799716A (en) * | 1987-05-15 | 1989-01-24 | Oteco Equipment Company | Protector for pipe connector hubs |
| US4915137A (en) * | 1988-08-15 | 1990-04-10 | Hall James A | Sheet plastic flange protector |
| US5048571A (en) * | 1989-11-27 | 1991-09-17 | Dana Corporation | Protective cover for end yoke |
| US5257648A (en) * | 1991-03-29 | 1993-11-02 | American Brass & Aluminum Foundry Company, Inc. | Pressure testing of tubular fitting installed to a ported wall |
| JP2529514B2 (en) * | 1991-09-26 | 1996-08-28 | アライアンス プラスティックス | Flange protector with integrated connector |
| US5265752A (en) * | 1991-09-26 | 1993-11-30 | Alliance Plastics | Flange protector having integral connectors |
| US5435350A (en) * | 1994-05-27 | 1995-07-25 | Bunzl Plastics, Inc. | Corrugated plastic flange protective cover |
| US5503189A (en) * | 1995-05-15 | 1996-04-02 | Bunzl Plastics, Inc. | Flange protector having flexible coupling insert and method for detachably coupling same to a conduit |
| US6532992B1 (en) * | 2000-06-26 | 2003-03-18 | General Electric Co. | Reusable pipe flange cover |
| US6332478B1 (en) | 2000-06-29 | 2001-12-25 | General Electric Company | Reusable pipe flange covers |
| US6725468B2 (en) * | 2002-02-11 | 2004-04-27 | Smith Molina, Inc. | Combination plug device and cover plate |
| FI20030312A (en) * | 2003-02-28 | 2004-08-29 | Larox Flowsys Oy | Apparatus for controlling a hose belonging to a displacement pump or an elastic feed pipe thereof |
| US7055184B2 (en) * | 2003-12-30 | 2006-06-06 | Ips Corporation | Closet flange with knockout retainer |
| DE102005059731A1 (en) * | 2005-12-14 | 2007-06-21 | GM Global Technology Operations, Inc., Detroit | cap |
| US20080142108A1 (en) * | 2006-12-15 | 2008-06-19 | Baker Jerry G | End protector system for tubular goods |
| US20080269539A1 (en) * | 2007-04-27 | 2008-10-30 | North American Scientific, Inc. | Brachytherapy Device Having an Alignment and Seal Adaptor |
| US8671991B2 (en) | 2009-11-30 | 2014-03-18 | Protective Industries, Inc. | Flange protector and lug |
| US8443844B2 (en) | 2009-11-30 | 2013-05-21 | Protective Industries, Inc. | Flange protector |
| US8800603B2 (en) * | 2011-12-15 | 2014-08-12 | Protective Industries, Inc. | Flange protector and masking device |
| JP6010415B2 (en) * | 2012-09-28 | 2016-10-19 | 積水化学工業株式会社 | Pipe end cap mounting structure |
| KR200481778Y1 (en) * | 2016-07-29 | 2016-11-08 | 윤태영 | The fastening structure of the flange |
| US9982495B1 (en) * | 2017-07-12 | 2018-05-29 | William von Eberstein | Tubular handling assembly and method |
| KR200492221Y1 (en) * | 2018-03-07 | 2020-10-14 | 주식회사 혜인샌더 | Protective Unit for Proteting Connections of Chamber for Electronic Devices Manufacturing |
Family Cites Families (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US3942681A (en) * | 1973-12-12 | 1976-03-09 | Richardson Ernest T | Flange protector |
| JPS511069U (en) * | 1974-06-14 | 1976-01-07 | ||
| US4014368A (en) * | 1976-02-13 | 1977-03-29 | Alliance Plastics, Inc. | Flange protector |
| FR2407870A1 (en) * | 1977-11-04 | 1979-06-01 | Stella Georges | Cover plate for protecting standard hydraulic unit - has sealing plugs forced into securing holes to hold plate against flange surface |
| DE2905870A1 (en) * | 1979-02-16 | 1980-08-21 | Klein Schanzlin & Becker Ag | Flanged disc for sealing pump branch openings - has openings into which bolts passed through flange drillings are pressed |
-
1982
- 1982-08-16 US US06/408,136 patent/US4423753A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1983
- 1983-08-03 AU AU17546/83A patent/AU553552B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1983-08-09 DE DE8383304590T patent/DE3377056D1/en not_active Expired
- 1983-08-09 EP EP83304590A patent/EP0101289B1/en not_active Expired
- 1983-08-12 KR KR1019830003778A patent/KR890004170B1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1983-08-12 PT PT77200A patent/PT77200B/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 1983-08-15 JP JP58149512A patent/JPS5962463A/en active Pending
- 1983-08-15 CA CA000434630A patent/CA1196298A/en not_active Expired
- 1983-08-15 MX MX198393A patent/MX158969A/en unknown
- 1983-08-16 ES ES1983282220U patent/ES282220Y/en not_active Expired
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| PT77200B (en) | 1986-03-11 |
| KR890004170B1 (en) | 1989-10-23 |
| EP0101289A2 (en) | 1984-02-22 |
| EP0101289B1 (en) | 1988-06-15 |
| US4423753A (en) | 1984-01-03 |
| KR840005698A (en) | 1984-11-15 |
| AU1754683A (en) | 1984-02-23 |
| ES282220Y (en) | 1985-10-16 |
| PT77200A (en) | 1983-09-01 |
| AU553552B2 (en) | 1986-07-17 |
| DE3377056D1 (en) | 1988-07-21 |
| JPS5962463A (en) | 1984-04-09 |
| EP0101289A3 (en) | 1985-05-15 |
| MX158969A (en) | 1989-04-04 |
| ES282220U (en) | 1985-03-01 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEC | Expiry (correction) | ||
| MKEX | Expiry |