Jackie Lowell Allen

US Patent:

43503713, Sep 21, 1982

Filed:

Mar 31, 1980

Appl. No.:

6/135849

Inventors:

Glen E. Lochte - Houston TX
Jackie R. Allen - Porter TX

Assignee:

FMC Corporation - Chicago IL

International Classification:

F16L 4100

US Classification:

285 18

Abstract:

An improved pipe connector especially adapted for connecting subsea pipes includes a dart-shaped assembly that can be installed and sealed in a cylindrical housing to establish a fluid-tight connection between the assembly and the housing using a minimum of diver assistance. The connector housing includes an axial passage to receive the assembly, and an annular groove in the inner wall of the axial passage. The assembly includes a bore extending axially from one end thereof through a portion of the assembly, and a port extending radially from the axial bore through the wall of the assembly to the groove of the housing when the assembly is positioned in the housing. Another passage extends radially from the groove to the outside of the housing. A pair of annular resilient packing rings mounted between the assembly and the housing provide fluid-tight seals for fluid flow from the axial bore of the assembly through the radial port and the annular groove out through the radial passage in the housing. Means are provided for selectively locking and unlocking the assembly in the housing and for setting and releasing the resilient packing rings.