US4390043A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Internal pipeline plug for deep subsea operations
Assignee: Shell USA Inc
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Filing: 1981-06-30
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Granted: 1983-06-28
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Expires: 2001-06-30
Abstract
Abstract Pressure-tight pipeline plugs are used in subsea connection operations to achieve a lightweight pipe condition which facilitates alignment by easing handling problems. An internal plug is provided for this purpose which is particularly useful for connection operations using a pipelay vessel, and which is capable of sealing, remotely releasing and then being pumped out of the line to a terminus.
Inventors
- 👤 John M. Ward
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-03 23:36
CPC Classifications
F; F16; F16L; F16L55/00; F16L55/10; F16L55/12; F16L55/128; F16L55/1283
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 5
Claim 1
Independent Claim
79 words
An internal pipeline plug functionable to seal, release and be pumped out of a pipeline comprising, means for sealing the plug in the pipeline to prevent fluid passage around the plug, means for gripping the pipe wall to fix the position of the plug in the pipeline, and pressure release means operable at a set pressure to permit fluid passage into the plug to actuate an axially movable piston operable to release the gripping means from the pipe wall.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
79 words
An internal pipeline plug functionable to seal, release and be pumped out of a pipeline comprising, means for sealing the plug in the pipeline to prevent fluid passage around the plug, means for gripping the pipe wall to fix the position of the plug in the pipeline, and pressure release means operable at a set pressure to permit fluid passage into the plug to actuate an axially movable piston operable to release the gripping means from the pipe wall.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
14 words
The plug of claim 1 wherein said sealing means is an elastomeric cup seal.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
11 words
The plug of claim 1 wherein said gripping means is colleted.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
16 words
The plug of claim 1 wherein said pressure release means is at least one rupture disk.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
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Cited
US3943982A
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US4077435A
Cited
US4114653A
Cited
GB1554894A
Cited
US4262702A
Cited
US4360290A
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1986-06-27 | 1986-12-27 | 1987-06-28 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1990-06-27 | 1990-12-27 | 1991-06-28 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1994-06-27 | 1994-12-27 | 1995-06-28 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |