MX2007010730A - Pipe clamp assembly with v-ring insert - Google Patents

Abstract

A pipe clamp assembly that includes a v-band clamp and a v-ring. The v-band clamp includes a band that carries a T-bolt tightening mechanism and a v-insert. The v-insert has an inwardly facing concave surface that fits over radially projecting flanges on the ends of the pipes or other tubular bodies to be joined. The v-ring is formed from sheet metal and has a convex profile and fits between the flanges so that the flanges can be tightly compressed between the v-insert and v-ring during tightening ofthe clamp. The angle of the walls defining the convex profile of the v-ring can be greater than that of the v-insert so that the v-ring provides some outward springing force on the flanges during tightening of the clamp. The v-ring can have an indexing feature and one or more clips for pre-attachment. A method of making the v-ring is also provided.

Description

CLAMP ASSEMBLY FOR PIPE WITH V-RING INSERTION DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to clamp assemblies for pipe and more particularly to v-band clamps used to join pipes and other tubular bodies. Many industries use tubular bodies to transport gases, liquids, or both, at various pressures. The automotive industry uses tubular bodies in many applications that include a vehicle exhaust system. Nearly round exhaust pipes carry exhaust gas from the engine of a vehicle to the atmosphere. On the way, the pipes are often segmented into several pieces so that they can follow a traced path of the lower part of the vehicle and so that they can join the components of the exhaust system such as catalytic converters, particulate filters, silencers, and the like. . Typically, these pipe pieces are joined together at their ends with pipe clamps. The clamps must form a joint between an effective fluid seal against leaks and a high degree of resistance to separation against road crash. Of the pipe clamps used for the different joints in the exhaust system, band clamps are used for lap joints (overlap telescopic pipes) couplers are used for splice joints (splicing pipes end to end), and band clamps v are used for extreme joints of flange pipes (splicing). V-band clamps (or simply clamps v) commonly have an outer metal foil band extending circumferentially from a first end to a second end, with a bolt-holding mechanism T that pulls the ends together for the clamping of the clamp Located on the inner surface of the band is a v-shaped concave insert (insert v) which typically comprises several arc segments of concave cross section which are formed by rolling from an elongated piece of metal sheet, cut at size, and then welded to the outer band. Then, in use, the end flanges of the two joining pipes are located within the concave channel of this insert v and the clamp is tightened such that the flanges are captively retained in the insert v. The clamp is sometimes used together with a v-ring that is placed between the end flanges of the pipe to improve seal to the fluid. This ring v provides support for the extreme flanges of the pipe such that the flanges are compressed between the insert v and the ring v during tightening of the clamp. Sometimes gaskets are placed between the v-ring and the end flanges of the pipe to improve seal gas tightness. The rings v are typically fused or machined to produce a rigid inner support component that does not deform appreciably during tightening of the clamp. The present invention provides a pipe clamp assembly that can be used to join a pair of tubular body ends such as pipe ends. The pipe clamp assembly includes a v-band clamp and a v-ring. The band clamp v has a band with an inner surface, a clamping mechanism connected to the band for tightening and loosening the clamp, and an insert v connected to the inner surface of the band for receiving tabs that are provided at the ends of the band. tubular body. The ring v includes a convex profile which, during assembly of the pipes together, fits between the end flanges of the pipe and at least partially within the insert v such that the flanges can be clamped against the ring v during the tighten the clamp. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the v-ring is formed of sheet metal that is formed with the convex profile along its length and then the two opposite ends of the metal sheet are put together and connected by a weld located along the axial length of the ring v. According to another aspect of the invention, the insert has a concave profile formed by a pair of inclined annular walls and the ring v has a convex profile formed by a second pair of inclined annular walls, where the first pair of walls form a first angle and the second pair of walls form a second angle that is greater than the first angle. Then, when the clamp is tightened, the insertion v applies pressure to the annular walls of the v-ring by the flanges of the tubular body attached and this results in the wider annular walls of the v-ring flexing with each other in such a way that the second angle decreases in measure toward that of the first angle. Packs may be provided if desired to further improve gas tightness of the gasket. According to another aspect of the invention, the ring v is provided with an adjustment feature that allows the two tubular bodies to rotationally align with each other during the assembly of the clamp. According to another aspect of the invention, a pre-joining pin is provided to connect the ring v to one or both of the tubular bodies and hold it in place while the band clamp v is then joined. According to another aspect of the invention, the flanges used in the tubular bodies can be provided with a circumferential rim that eliminates the need for packing between the flanges and the v-ring. The flanges of the flanges are compressed directly against the annular walls of the ring v during tightening of the clamp. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention will be described afterwards together with the accompanying drawings, where like designations denote similar elements, and wherein: Figure 1 is an exploded view of a first embodiment of a clamp assembly. for pipe of this invention; Figure 2 shows a method for manufacturing the ring v used in the pipe clamp assembly of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a sectional view taken on line 3-3 of the ring v of the pipe clamp assembly of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a sectional view of the pipe clamp assembly of Figure 1 showing how it is installed in a pair of pipe ends; Figure 5 is an exploded view of the protruding portions of a second embodiment of a pipe clamp assembly of this invention; Figure 6 is a sectional view of the portions of a third embodiment of a pipe clamp assembly of this invention; Figure 7 is an exploded view of the portions of a fourth embodiment of a pipe clamp assembly of this invention; Figure 8 is a perspective view of a pipe end according to a fifth embodiment of a pipe clamp assembly and tubular body end of the present invention; Figure 9 is a sectional view as in Figure 4, but of the fifth embodiment to show the coupling of the end flanges of pipe with the v-ring. Referring now to the drawings, the invention will be described in various embodiments of a pipe clamp assembly adapted to join a pair of tubular body ends. The invention will be described with specific reference to a band clamp v and a ring v used in a vehicle exhaust system. However, it will be appreciated that the description is carried out so that the invention is useful in many different applications and can be implemented in many other embodiments. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms axially, angularly, inclined, and radially refer to directions relative to the generally circular shape of the band clamp v, such that the radial direction extends radially from the geometric center of the circular clamp, angularly refer to the locations at points around the circumference of the clamp, the axial direction extends perpendicular from the radial plane of the clamp, and inclined refers to extending partially in a radial and axial direction. Further, the term "tubular body" encompasses bodies for transporting gases, liquids, or both, at various pressures including exhaust pipes, coiled tubing, molten pipes, bellows-type tubes, as well as tubular housings as used in particle filters. and catalytic converters. Figure 1 shows a pipe clamp assembly 10 used to join a pair of tubular body ends, specifically a first end 12 of pipe and a second end 14 of pipe in a vehicle exhaust system. These pipes have a similar diameter and include a radially projecting first flange 16 and a radially projecting second flange 18. The flanges are each inclined away from their respective pipe end at an angle of approximately 70 ° with respect to the central axis of the pipe; this results in a 40 ° angle between the two tabs when they align with each other for assembly. The flanges 16, 18 may be unitary with the pipes or may be separate components welded at or near the pipe edge. The eyelashes have a thickness similar to that of the wall of the pipe.

First Mode A first embodiment of clamp assembly 10 for tubing is shown in Figures 1-4. The pipe clamp assembly 10 fits over the first and second pipe ends 12, 14 to form a gasket having a fluid tight seal and a high degree of separation resistance. The pipe clamp assembly includes a v-band clamp 20, a ring-ring insert 22 v, and a pair of gaskets 24, 26. These components are adapted for use with pipes having flanges 16, 18. The component 20 of band clamp v is fitted over the first and second pipe ends 12, 14, and when tightened, they provide a radially internal force uniformly distributed to seal and reinforce the joint between them. The band clamp 20 has an annular shape that complements the shape of the first and second pipe ends 12, 14 and its flanges. It is formed of several parts including a band 28, a clamping mechanism 30 and an insert 32 v. The band 28 constitutes the outer component of the band clamp 20 and carries the clamping mechanism 30 and an insert 32 v. The band is formed of a suitable steel such as stainless steel of hardness 301 ¼ in a thickness of 2mm. It is stamped from metal sheet of this steel with a biased cut in a first end 34 and a second end 36. The stamped steel is then bent into an almost round shape by a suitable bending process that leaves the ends 34, 36 not joined and defines an interior surface 42. The ends are folded on themselves and welded to provide a double layer of steel but leaves the opposite loops 38, 40. While the loops are being formed, the parts of the clamping mechanism 30 are placed under the inlet of each loop in such a manner that the bending and welding steps tie the parts within the respective loop. As noted, the clamping mechanism 30 is connected to the band 28 by loops 38, 40 and is used to extract the first and second ends 34, 36 towards and away from each other to respectively tighten and loosen the band clamp 20 v. When the ends are pulled towards themselves, the tightening mechanism imparts the radially internal force provided by the band clamp v. The particular tightening mechanism shown is of the bolt type T, but other suitable tightening mechanisms can be used. The bolt mechanism T includes a joint 44, bolt 46 T and nut 48, and the construction or operation of this bolt mechanism T is known to those skilled in the art. The tightening mechanisms of the quick-connect bolt T which allow the head of the bolt T to be easily joined or separated from the first end 34 of the clamp can also be used. The insert 32 v is connected by welding to the inner surface 42, and shaped to receive the first and second flanges 16, 18 when the band clamp v is installed. The insert 32 v is formed of a suitable steel such as stainless steel of hardness 301 ½ previously described. Figure 2 shows some of the steps involved in manufacturing the 22 v ring; however, the first three stages of Figure 2 are also used to make the insert 32 v. The steps need not be performed in the exact order shown or described, and some may be performed simultaneously such as the rolling and bending stages. The steel is first provided in an elongated flat strip of sheet metal, step 80. Then, in step 82, the strip is fed in a roll-rolling machine and rolled by rollers between successive pairs of rolls that roll each time plus the concave cross section that extends through the band. In step 84, the web is then bent into a helical shape with a diameter that matches that of the web 28 such that a concave surface 50 (Figure 4) is radially and internally oriented along the length of the bend . The remaining stages are not shown in Figure 2, but they are as follows. The band is cut into individual arcs around each third of a turn (e.g., slightly less than 120 °). Three arc elements are then welded to the inner surface 42 to form the insert 32 v circumferentially segmented. When complete, the concave surface 50 has inclined annular walls 52, 54 that form a v-shaped channel that is internally oriented. The concave surface generally complements a convex ring profile 22 v with annular walls 52, 54 forming an angle that is approximately 40 ° to match the angles defined by the first and second flanges 16, 18. This process for manufacturing the insert 32 v which includes roller rolling of the concave profile is conventional and is known to those skilled in the art. Returning again to Figure 1, the ring component 22 is dimensioned to fit radially within the band clamp 20 and between the pipe ends 12, 14 when the pipe clamp assembly 10 is installed. The v-ring improves the fluid-tight seal around the joint. It does so in part by exerting a counterforce on the radially internal and axial forces imparted by the band clamp v tightened on the flanges 16, 18. The ring 22 v has a one-piece annular structure and is formed as a loop closed metal sheet. Returning now to Figure 3, the ring 22 v has an externally oriented convex profile 56 extending circumferentially around the ring v. This convex profile is mainly defined by a pair of annular walls 58, 60 which slopes away from a flattened central region of the ring 22 v. A pair of pilot sleeves 62, 64 extend axially of the annular walls 58, 60 and have a diameter that is smaller than that of the tubular bodies 12, 14 such that they can be telescopically adjusted in the tubular bodies to assist Align and retain the components together during assembly. The annular walls 58, 60 are flat in cross section in such a way that if they continue beyond the convex profile 56 they can define an initial angle ?? which is approximately 43 ° in the state shown in Figure 3. The Figure also shows the imaginary angle 9C in a compressed state which is approximately 40 ° which agrees with those angles of the first and second flanges 16, 18 and the walls 52 , 54 annular insertion 32 v. Ring 22 v is formed of an unsuitable steel such as stainless steel hardness 301 ¼, 2mm thick. Figure 2 shows the steps involved in manufacturing the ring 22 v. The steps do not need to be performed in the exact order shown described, and some may be performed simultaneously such as the rolling and folding steps. In step 80, the first steel is provided in an elongated section of metal sheet in the form of a band extending from a first end to a second end. Then, the convex profile 56 is formed in the central region of the sheet metal strip (step 82) which leaves the two side portions which will become the pilot sleeves 62, 64. This can be done by feeding the web in a roller rolling machine in such a manner that it is rolled by rollers between the successive pairs of rollers that increasingly roll the convex profile through the center of the web. This preferred profile (although not needed) is formed for the entire length of the sheet metal strip and, when formed, defines a v-shaped channel extending between the first and second end of the metal sheet . The band is then bent in step 84 in a helical shape with the v-shaped channel oriented radially and internally along the length of the turns. In step 86, the band is cut into individual rounds each of which has a pair of adjacent ends with the v-shaped channel extending around the turn from one of the adjacent ends to the other adjacent end. These turns have the length equal to the circumference of the ring 22 v completed. Finally, in step 88, the adjacent ends are aligned in a splice relationship and welded together to form the closed annular ring. The outer surface of the ring v can be ground or sanded to provide a smooth, finished surface in the weld. As shown in Figure 2, the resulting ring 22 v thus comprises a circular loop of sheet metal having spout ends 21, 23 which are connected together by a weld 25. This provides the ring 22 v with a profile continuous convex having a substantially uniform cross-sectional shape over the entire circumference of the ring v. Welding extends the axial length of the ring v; that is, it extends from a first axial end 27, along the convex profile 56, to a second axial end 29. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the selection of a suitable sheet metal material and thickness provides the 22 v ring with a compressible characteristic whereby the angle T can be compressed from 43 ° to 40 ° as previously described during tightening of the clamp, and this can be done in a manner that results in a temporary deformation of the ring v so that it recovers its original angle when the band clamp v loosens. Returning again to Figure 1, when the packing components 24, 26 settle on the ring 22 v, they also improve the fluid tight seal around the joint. Suitable gaskets are formed of steel to form an annular shape each is disposed on one side of the ring 22 v, whereby they are inclined to settle against the annular walls 58, 60. Each package has projections 66 projecting radially and internally circumferentially spaced around the package. These projections provide a snap fit when the packings are seated on the ring 22 v so that they do not come off easily during handling. Different ledges 66, a slight curve (not shown) could be formed along the circumference of the packs 24, 26 to provide a similar pressure fit, as is known in the art, the packs can have a curved cross section so that they can provide some resistance when compressed in the flattened form shown in Figure 4 by the clamping forces. This can help improve the sealing of the seal fluid in the packages. To install the pipe clamp assembly 10, the first pipe end 22 and the second pipe end 14 are separated in a concentrically and axially aligned relationship. The gasket 24 snaps onto the pilot sleeve 62 until it sits almost flush against the annular wall 58. The gasket 26 sits against the annular wall 60 in the same way. The ring 22 v, in an uncompressed state and with the gaskets 24, 26 v attached, is axially aligned with and placed between the pipe ends 12, 14. The band clamp 20 in a loose state is placed on a pipe end beyond the respective flange so that it rests around the end wall of the respective pipe. Returning now to Figure 4, the first end 12 of pipe and the second end 14 of pipe are put together in a direction still axially aligned radially above and circumferentially around the ring 22 v. The first flange 16 and the second flange 18 are put in respective contact with the gaskets 24, 26; while the same ends of the lower surfaces of the first pipe end 12 and the second pipe end 14 lie respectively on the pilot length 62, 64. At this point, the ring 22 v is still in a state of some uncompressed shape with an angle T of about 43 ° and therefore the flanges are not completely flush against the packages 24, 26. The band clamp 20 loose then it is placed circumferentially around the partial joint. The concave surface 50 is pressed onto the convex profile 56 with flanges 16, 18 and gaskets 24, 26 captured therebetween. Walls 52, 54 annular are pressed against the tabs 16, 18 on one side of the tabs opposite the tabs. The band clamp 20 is then tightened to clamp the pipe clamp assembly 10 and form a final joint between the first pipe end 12 and the second pipe end 14. The clamping mechanism 30 is used to put the first and second ends 34, 36 towards themselves by screwing the nut 48 onto the bolt 46 T. As the clamping begins, the ends partly in a radially internal force circumferentially around the joint through insertion 32 v, which in turn imparts that force to the tabs 16, 18 and against the ring 22 v. The ring v is compressed in such a way that the angle T is forced from the angle of 43 ° and towards the angle of 40 ° which agrees with the inclined angle of the eyelashes and the angle of the concave surface. Once it is fully tightened, a counterforce is exerted externally of the ring 22 v against the flanges 16, 18 and in turn against the insert 32 v. To uninstall the pipe clamp assembly 10, the clamping mechanism 30 is loosened, the clamp 20 v is removed from the now partial gasket, and the first pipe end 12 and the second pipe end are pulled separately. Second Modality Figure 5 shows a second embodiment of a pipe clamp assembly. Elements of this modality that correspond to similar elements of the first modality in Figure 1 are identified with numbers displaced by 100 of those used in that modality. The band clamp v is not shown in this Figure 5; however, the band clamp v and its parts including the band, the tightening mechanism, and the insertion v are the same in this embodiment as described in the first embodiment so that their description is omitted here. The first pipe end 112 and the second pipe end 114 include a first flange 116, a second flange 118, a first adjustment feature 168, and a second adjustment feature 170. The ends of the pipe and the flanges are similar to those described in the previous modality. The adjustment characteristics agree with the corresponding adjustment characteristics found in the ring 22 v to align circumferentially and axially the ring v with the pipe ends during the installation. The first adjustment feature 168 is formed in the first pipe end 112 as a recess by a suitable rolling process. The second adjustment feature 170 is formed in the same manner as a recess in the second pipe end 114. Both recesses extend through tabs 116, 118. Ring 122 v is similar to ring v described in the previous embodiment. One difference is that the ring 122 v has a first adjustment feature 172 and a second adjustment feature 174. The first adjustment feature 172 is formed as a protrusion in a pilot sleeve 162 and extends towards the annular wall forming the convex profile. The protrusion 172 is formed by a suitable rolling process carried out after forming the convex profile. The second adjustment feature 174 is formed as a protuberance in the same way in a pilot sleeve 124. These protuberances 172, 174 correspond to the recesses 168, 170 pipe ends and are dimensioned to fit within the recesses in a joint relationship. This adjustment arrangement allows the ring v to be used to achieve a predetermined alignment between the two pipe ends 112, 114. A pair of packages 124, 126 are provided which are similar to those packages described in the previous embodiment. One difference is that the projections in the previous mode are omitted. Another difference is that each package has an adjustment feature in the form of a recess (recess 176 in the package 124, not shown in the package 126). The recess is formed in the inner edge of each gasket 124, 126 and complements the shape of the protuberances 172, 174 in another joint relationship. This allows the package to be angularly oriented relative to the ring v which may be useful for servicing since once the package is initially clamped, it may deform and take the form of any imperfections in the surface of the ring v. This means that, if the gasket is always serviced and the gaskets are removed from the ring, the reconnection of the gaskets should be done using the same angular orientation that was originally had in such a way that it will achieve its best fit and reduce the probability of leaks along the package. The use of packing and the adjustment features of the v-ring help ensure that this angular orientation is maintained. These parts are similarly installed as in the previous embodiment except that the gaskets 124, 126 fit over the pilot sleeves 162, 164 in such a way that the recesses 176 and the other recess are aligned with the protuberances 172, 174. The recesses are adjusted on the protuberances and prevent the packages from turning in the circumferential direction. Then, when the first pipe end 112 and the second pipe end 114 are put together, the recesses 168, 170 align with the protuberances 172, 174 in such a way that the recesses receive the protrusions and thereafter prevent relative rotation. . This same adjustment task is possible if the fitting characteristics of the pipe end are protuberances, and the adjustment characteristics of the v-ring are recesses (in this case, if the packages are used, the packing recesses could also be implemented as a protuberance). Third Modality Figure 6 shows a third embodiment of a pipe clamp assembly. Elements of this modality that correspond to similar elements of the first modality of Figure 1 are identified with numbers displaced by 200 of those used in this modality. The Figure omits the band clamp v and the gaskets. However, these components and their parts are the same in this embodiment as those described in the first embodiment in this way their description is omitted here. Figure 6 depicts the ring 222 v which may be identical to the ring 22 v of Figure 1. However, in this embodiment, the ring 222 v is fitted with a clasp 278 to pre-join the ring 222 to the pipe ends as part of the assembly process. The clasp 278 is bent out of a suitable metal in a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the ring 222 v. A pair of clasps 278 are joined as shown around 180 ° apart from ring 222 v. The clasp 278 has a body that wraps around the ring v with flexible extension arms 280, 282. In particular, the clasp extends along the inner surface of the v-ring and may, but not necessarily, be partially (or completely) extended in the v-shaped channel defined by the convex profile of the v-ring. The clasp is wrapped around the axial ends of the ring v and in such a way that it bends around the pilot sleeves 262, 264 and remains suspended thereon. When the pipe ends are put together, the bending arms 280, 282 are twisted towards the pilot sleeves 262, 264 and lie under the respective pipe ends. When twisted, each bending arm exerts a radially external force that fits the ring 222 v under the pipe ends. These clasps allow the pre-union of the v-ring and the pipe ends together which can help to simplify the assembly process of the clamp. Fourth Modality Figure 7 shows a fourth embodiment of a pipe clamp assembly. Elements of this modality that correspond to similar elements of the first modality of Figure 1 are identified with numbers displaced by 300 of those used in that modality. The figure shows a ring 322 v without the band clamp v or gaskets. The gaskets and band clamp v and their parts including the band, the clamping mechanism, and the insertion v, are the same in this embodiment as described in the first embodiment in such a way that their description is omitted here. The first pipe end 312 is similar to the first pipe end of the first embodiment. One difference is that the first pipe end 312 has a pre-joining feature 384 in the form of a circumferential retention flange. As will be described in the following, the retaining flange 384 cooperates and matches a distal end portion of a clasp 386 attached to the ring 322 v for pre-joining the annulus v to at least one of the pipe ends. Ring 322 v is similar to ring v of the first embodiment. One difference is that the ring 322 v has a pre-joining feature 386 in the form of a separation clasp. The separating clasp 386 is formed of a suitable metal and is an elongated component extending from a proximal end to a distal end, with the clasp being attached when welding the end proximal to the annulus v on the inner surface of the pilot sleeve 362. It has a flexing arm 388 extending axially from the ring v to the distal end where it includes a radially projecting reinforcement 390. When the pipe ends 312, 314 are put together, the flexing arm 388 guides the separation pin 386 under the first pipe end 312 until the reinforcement 390 snaps into the retaining flange 384. The reinforcement 390 is joined and captured in the space provided by the retaining flange 384 and thus, the ring 322 v is prevented from pulling axially on the first end 312 of the pipe. A similar snap can be used to pre-join the other pipe end 314. Alternatively, the brooch 378 can be double ended; that is, it can extend completely through the ring 322 v and out of the other axial end with a second projecting reinforcement for joining with a retaining flange at the other pipe end 314. Fifth Modality Figures 8 and 9 show a fifth embodiment of a pipe clamp assembly. Elements of this modality that correspond to similar elements of the first modality of Figure 1 are identified with numbers displaced by 400 of those used in that modality. The band clamp v and the ring insertion v may be the same as those of the first embodiment and its description is omitted in this way here. In this embodiment, the gaskets that have been removed and their function replaced by a flange 415, 417 extending circumferentially formed in the respective end flanges 416, 418 of the pipe ends. Each flange 415, 417 projects axially away from its associated pipe end such that, during assembly, flange 415 engages annular wall 458 of ring 422 v, and flange 417 engages annular wall 460. During tightening of the clamp, the annular walls of the insert 432 v engage the flanges 416, 418 on the outer side of these flanges, ie, on the side of the flanges opposite the flanges 415, 417 and the tightening of the flange. The clamp provides a mostly axial force on the flanges which compress the flanges 415, 417 against the annular walls 458, 460 of the annulus 422 v to thereby provide a fluid-tight seal of the flanges to the v-ring without the use of gaskets. . Although the insert 432 v is shown as not being completely over the ridges 415, 417, it will be appreciated that the relative positions and dimensions of the ridges and the annular walls of the insert v could be selected as desired so that the insert v covers Completely flanges either at the initial assembly point of the components together, or as a result of the clamp being fully tightened. It will be understood that the foregoing description is not a description of the invention itself, but one or more preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention. The invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described herein, but is in fact defined only by the following claims. Furthermore, the statements contained in the foregoing description refer to particular modalities and will not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention or on the definition of terms used in the claims, except where a term or phrase is expressly defined in the foregoing. Various other modalities and various changes and modifications to the described modalities will become apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, although the illustrated v-band clamps use a segmented v-insert and separate outer band, the band clamp v can be implemented using a single piece of circumferentially-shaped metal sheet extending to have internally inclining annular walls that define the v-shaped channel without using a separate outer flat band. A suitable tightening mechanism can then be attached to the adjacent ends of this v-shaped band. Also in some embodiments the metal sheet ring v may not necessarily be for a particular application for the weld to extend the entire axial length of the ring v, in fact for example, separate point welds could be used or a weld seam could be used. that only extends partially between the axial ends. All other modalities, changes and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. As used in this specification and claims, the terms "for example", "in this case", and "as such", and the verbs "comprising", "having", "including", and their other forms verbal, when used together with a list of one or more components or other elements, each will be interpreted as undefined, meaning that the list will not be considered as excluding other components or additional elements. Other terms will be interpreted using their reasonable wider meaning unless they are used in a context that requires a different interpretation.

Claims (30)

1. CLAIMS 1. A pipe clamp assembly for joining a pair of tubular body ends each having a flange, characterized in that it comprises: a band clamp v having an almost round shape extending from a first end to a second end, the band clamp v has a first pair of annular walls that form an internally oriented v-shaped channel extending at least partially between the first and second ends, the band clamp v further includes a mechanism of tighten connected to the first and second ends to extract the ends towards and away from each other to tighten and loosen the band clamp v; and a ring v comprising a circular loop of metal sheet having an outer surface that includes an externally oriented convex profile formed in the metal sheet that is sized to fit at least partially within the channel, the circular loop of metal sheet has first and second splice ends with the convex profile extending circumferentially around the ring v from the first end of splice to the second end of splice, where the splice ends are connected together by a weld extending from a first axial end of the ring insert v, along the convex profile, to a second axial end of the ring. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the band clamp v further comprises: a band having an almost round shape extending from the first end to the second end, the band has a surface interior that is radially and internally oriented; and an insert v connected to the inner surface of the band, the insert v includes the first pair of annular walls. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the insertion v comprises a plurality of metal sheet arc segments each having the first pair of annular walls and joining at circumferential locations spaced apart from the inner surface of the band. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the convex profile is defined at least in part by a second pair of annular walls extending circumferentially from the first end of the splice to the second end of the splice. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 4, further characterized by comprising a pair of gaskets each sized to couple one end to the second pair of ring walls, wherein the ring v includes a pilot sleeve extending axially from each of the second pair of annular walls, and wherein the packages include a plurality of radially and internally extending projections that contact the outer surface of the annulus v in the pilot sleeves to thereby provide a snap-fit connection of the packages to the ring v. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that the ring v includes a pilot sleeve extending axially from each of the second pair of annular walls, and where pilot sleeves include a localized adjustment feature in a or more angular locations around the circumference of the v-ring, whereby the adjustment characteristic can correspond with the corresponding adjustment characteristics at the tubular body ends to consequently rotationally align the ends of the tubular body with each other during assembly of the v ring and the band clamp goes the tubular band ends. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that the first pair of annular walls is inclined and defines a first angle between them and the second pair of annular walls slopes and defines a second angle between them., with the second angle being greater than the first angle. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that the metal sheet of the ring v can be deformed during the tightening of the clamping mechanism in such a way that the measurement of the second angle decreases towards the measurement of the first angle. . The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises a pair of gaskets matching the second pair of ring walls, where the ring v and the gaskets include an adjustment feature that allows the gaskets to be sealed. align angularly with the ring v. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 1, further characterized in that it comprises a clasp attached to the ring v, wherein the clasp is adapted to couple an inner surface of at least one of the tubular body ends to allow the pre-joining the v-ring to at least one of the ends of the tubular body. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 10, characterized in that the ring v has a pair of pilot sleeves extending axially of the convex profile, and where the clasp extends axially along the inner surface of the ring vy is wrapped around the first and second axial ends of the ring v on the outer surface and extends over at least a portion of the pilot sleeves. The clamp assembly for tubing according to claim 10, characterized in that the clasp has a proximal end and a distal end with the proximal end the annulus v being connected, and where the clasp extends axially of the first axial end of the annulus v, the clasp has a retention feature at its distal end that matches a corresponding feature of one of the tubular body ends to thereby allow pre-bonding of the v-ring. A pipe clamp assembly for joining a pair of tubular body ends each having a flange, characterized in that it comprises: a band clamp v having an almost round shape extending from a first end to a second end , the band clamp v has a first pair of annular walls forming a v-shaped channel that is internally oriented and that defines a first angle between the walls, the band clamp v also includes a clamping mechanism connected to the first and second ends to extract the ends towards and away from each other to tighten and loosen the band clamp v; and a ring v having a second pair of annular walls forming a convex profile which is externally oriented on an outer surface of the ring v, the convex profile being dimensioned to fit at least partially within the channel with the second pair of annular walls that define a second angle is that it is greater than the first angle. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that the band clamp v further comprises: a band having an almost round shape extending from the first end to the second end, the band has a surface interior that is radially and internally oriented; and an insert v connected to the inner surface of the band, the insert v includes the first pair of annular walls. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that the insertion v comprises a plurality of metal sheet arc segments each having the first pair of annular walls and joining in circumferential locations spaced apart from the inner surface of the band. 16. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 13, further characterized in that it comprises a pair of gaskets tightly pressed on opposite sides of the ring v. 17. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 13, further characterized in that it comprises a pair of gaskets that match the second pair of annular walls, where the ring v and the gaskets include an adjustment feature that allows the gaskets to align angularly with the ring v. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that the ring v includes a pilot sleeve extending axially from each of the second pair of annular walls, and where pilot sleeves include a localized adjustment feature in a or more angular locations around the circumference of the ring v, whereby the adjustment feature may coincide with the corresponding adjustment characteristics at the tubular body ends to consequently rotationally align the ends of the tubular body with each other during assembly of the v ring and the band clamp goes the tubular band ends. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that the ring v comprising a circular loop of sheet metal having first and second ends of splice with the convex profile extending circumferentially around the ring v from the first splice end to the second end of splice, where the splice ends are connected together by a weld extending from a first axial end of the ring v, along the convex profile, to a second axial end of the ring v. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 19, characterized in that the metal sheet of the ring v can be deformed during the tightening of the clamping mechanism in such a way that the measurement of the second angle decreases towards the measurement of the first angle. . 21. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 13, characterized in that the second angle is approximately 3o greater than the first angle. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 13, further characterized in that it comprises a clasp attached to the ring v, where the clasp is adapted to couple an inner surface of at least one of the tubular body ends to allow the Pre-joining the ring of the ring v to at least one of the ends of the tubular body. 23. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that the ring v has a pair of pilot sleeves extending axially of the convex profile, and wherein the clasp extends axially along an inner surface of the ring v and is it wraps around the first and second axial ends of the ring vy on the outer surface and extends over at least a portion of the pilot sleeves. 24. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 22, characterized in that the clasp has a proximal end and a distal end with the proximal end being connected to the v-ring, and where the clasp extends axially of the v-ring, the clasp it has a retaining characteristic at its distal end which agrees with a corresponding characteristic of one of the ends of the tubular body to thereby allow the pre-union of the ring v. 25. A pipe clamp assembly for joining a pair of tubular body ends each having a flange, characterized in that it comprises: a band clamp v having an almost round shape extending from a first end to a second end , the band clamp v has a first pair of annular walls that form a v-shaped channel that is internally oriented and that extends at least partially between the first and second ends, the band clamp v further includes a mechanism of tighten connected to the first and second ends to extract the ends towards and away from each other to tighten and loosen the band clamp v; and a ring v comprising a circular loop of metal having a convex profile extending radially and externally on the circumference of the circular loop, the convex profile is located between a pair of pilot sleeves each extending from the convex profile to an axial end of the ring v, the ring v includes an adjustment feature formed in the pilot sleeves at an angular location around the circumference of the ring v. 26. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 25, further characterized in that it comprises a pair of gaskets that fit over the pilot sleeves, where the gaskets include an adjustment feature that allows the gaskets to align angularly with the ring. using the ring adjustment feature v. A pipe clamp assembly for joining a pair of tubular body ends each having a flange, characterized in that it comprises: a band clamp v having an almost round shape extending from a first end to a second end , the band clamp v has a first pair of annular walls that form a v-shaped channel that is internally oriented and that extends at least partially between the first and second ends, the band clamp v further includes a mechanism of tighten connected to the first and second ends to extract the ends towards and away from each other to tighten and loosen the band clamp v; and a ring v comprising a circular loop of metal having an outer surface that includes an externally oriented convex profile that is dimensioned to fit at least partially within the channel; and a clasp attached to the ring v, wherein the clasp is adapted to engage an inner surface of at least one of the tubular body ends to allow pre-joining of the ring v at least to one of the ends of the tubular body. The clamp assembly for tubing according to claim 27, characterized in that the ring v has a pair of pilot sleeves extending axially from the convex profile, and where the clasp extends axially along an interior surface of the clamp. The ring vy is wrapped around the first and second axial ends of the ring vy on the outer surface and extends over at least a portion of the pilot sleeves. 29. The pipe clamp assembly according to claim 27, characterized in that the clasp has a proximal end and a distal end with the proximal end being connected to the ring v, and where the clasp extends axially of the ring v, the clasp it has a retaining feature on its distal end which agrees with a corresponding feature of one of the tubular body ends to thereby allow the pre-union of the v-ring. A clamp assembly for pipe and body end, characterized in that it comprises: a first and second tubular bodies each having a radially projecting flange positioned at one end of the tubular body; a band clamp v having an almost round shape extending from a first end to a second end, the band clamp v has a first pair of annular walls forming an internally oriented and extending v-shaped channel at least partially between the first and second ends, the band clamp v further includes a clamping mechanism connected to the first and second ends to extract the ends towards and away from each other to tighten and loosen the band clamp v; and a ring v comprising a circular loop of metal having an outer surface including an externally oriented convex profile defined at least in part by a second pair of annular walls; wherein the flanges each have a circumferentially extending flange projecting axially from the tubular body, wherein each of the tabs of the tubular bodies couple one of the second pair of annular walls through the flange, with the first pair of annular walls engaging the tabs on one side of the flanges opposite the flange, and where, during tightening the band clamp v, the first pair of annular walls axially force the flanges toward each other and compress the flanges against the second pair of annular walls to thereby provide a gas-tight seal of the flanges to the v-ring.