Inventors:
Ernest B. Loker - Edgewater MD
Karl E. Halfpap - Deale MD
Assignee:
Hydrasearch Co., Inc. - Annapolis MD
International Classification:
F16L 3904
Abstract:
A coupling and method of coupling of a self-aligning self-tightening nature is obtained by providing a nipple with a hose receiving end and a coupling end. An annular hose abutment flange directed outwardly is formed on the nipple remote from the hose receiving end. An annular pressure ramp is formed on the nipple intermediate the hose receiving end and the hose abutment flange. A plurality of grip segments having a hose receiving end and a coupling end are provided with at least one annular node and an inwardly directed alignment flange. A hose is slid over the hose receiving end of the nipple toward the abutment flange, and the grip segments are placed over the hose with the inwardly directed annular alignment flange located between the outward abutment flange and the coupling end of the nipple. The grip segments are tightened on the hose and nipple, thus forcing the grip segments toward the coupling end by squeezing the hose between the ramp and the node. It will be appreciated that under pressure or tension after the coupling is assembled, the nipple relationship between the hose and segments changes, causing increased hose retention, and again better tightening properties.
