Impact energy absorbing pipe restraints

Abstract

Impact energy absorbing pipe restraints are provided which include a laminated strap for surrounding at least a portion of the circumference of a high energy pipe to restrain the movement of the high energy pipe in at least one direction during rupture. The laminated strap is formed of a ductile material, i.e., one having the property of substantial elongation in the plastic state, to absorb the impact energy of the ruptured pipe. Advantageously, an elastic anchor means is affixed to the ends of the laminated strap to anchor the laminated strap about the high energy pipe and enable pivotal movement of the laminated strap relative to the high energy pipe to minimize any bending moment at the ends of the laminated strap, thereby minimizing any detraction in the allowable strain of the laminated strap. Another form of impact energy absorbing restraint device includes a pipe positioned adjacent the high energy pipe and arranged substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis thereof to restrain the movement of the high energy pipe in at least one direction by absorbing the impact energy of the high energy pipe during rupture by crushing of the restraining pipe therewith. Advantageously, crushing of the restraining pipe causes the ends of the restraining pipe to move upward so that in effect a well is formed by the restraining pipe which aids in the absorption of energy and restricts lateral movement of the ruptured high energy pipe.