Mechanical Research & Design, Inc.

Charles L Stecker

Wayne W Beebe

An apparatus and method for isolating the end of a segment of pipe, which includes a substantially cylindrical body, having first and second ends, and a circumference slightly less than the inner diameter of the pipe segment; a pair of spaced apart inflatable seals positioned around the wall of the body; means for introducing a fluid into the inflatable seals through separate lines under sufficient pressure so that the inflatable seals are inflated against the wall of the pipe segment defining an annular space between the inflated inflatable seals; a line for introducing a fluid into the annular space under pressure to test the integrity of the seal between the inflatable seals and the pipe wall, and having a dual function to capture fluid which may have entered the annular space as a result of a inflatable seal failure; a line through the body for allowing fluid to flow through the line at predetermined times and pressures; and a plurality of bolts on the first end of the body which would engage the inner wall of the pipe in order to provide a secure engagement between the body and the pipe in the event of high unexpected pressure within the pipeline.

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Manitowoc, WI, United States of America

Charles L Stecker