Louisiana Patent of the Month – November 2023
AGI Industries, Inc., industrial fluid handling products distributor, has been granted a patent for their quick coupling design. Fluid conduits are made of numerous couplings and tubes to transport fluids from point A to point B. Being able to quickly connect and disconnect these coupling points makes maintenance and installation much easier; but any quick connect must ensure there is no leakage of fluid.
The technology behind this method involves a unique coupling apparatus that consists of rings, a seal ring with specialized grooves and notches, a sealing member, a clamp ring, and a lock housing. These elements work in harmony to ensure a secure and, most importantly, a leak-proof connection between conduits.
Unlike traditional methods that often require elaborate and specific geometrical shapes at the ends of the pipes, this method eradicates the need for such configurations, making the process more cost-effective. It also reduces the number of tools required and streamlines the installation process significantly, saving time and effort.
What sets this method apart is the seal ring placed between the end rings. This ring, equipped with elastomer seals, provides the critical fluid-tight seal between the connected ends of the conduits. The two-piece clamp ring and the lock housing then lock everything securely in place, ensuring that the connection remains intact.
This innovation isn’t just about simplifying the connection process; it’s about making it smarter. The system is designed to be more robust, with fewer parts and a smaller diameter than traditional bolted flange connections. Its resistance to corrosion-induced seizing further adds to its reliability.
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