1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to sending steam under pressure, or other substances either under or not under pressure, through pipes across long distances. More particularly, this invention relates to the unions betweeen the pipes and allows new pipes to be retrofitted to an existing system with more economy and efficiency than previously possible.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Long runs of piping that carry a substance under pressure have joints, or unions, that previously have required precise machining of both male and female components to insure an exact fit. Since these unions are typically made of steel or stainless steel, the machine grinding takes a skilled machinist, precision equipment and lots of time. All of this adds up to a high cost.
The section of pipe held between two opposing unions is forced into a taut, horizontal position because the carefully ground components are put together such that the male ground surface precisely fits next to the female ground surface. Removal of a section for repairs requires springing that section to allow space at either end. This can, and sometimes does, damage the costly union, as well as deform the section of pipe. In addition, normal vibration of a system over time tends to weaken the ground joint seal.