24-10-2012, 02:15 PM
Test System for a Flexible Tube
ABSTRACT
This patent application discloses a system for testing a flexible tube. Another object of the present invention is to provide
a system for testing a flexible tube that minimizes unwanted tube distortion. Still another object of the present invention is to
provide a system for testing the fluid handling performance of the flexible tube as the flexible tube experiences load conditions.
First and second hollow mandrels are inserted into opposing ends of the tube. Each mandrel has a conically tapered portion
at one end thereof and a cylindrical portion extending from the conically tapered portion. The cylindrical portion has a plurality
of annular indentations formed thereabout. Each of a plurality of clamps encircle the tube in line with one annular indentation
to engage the tube with a seal. A fluid delivery system is coupled between the cylindrical portions of the mandrels to deliver
a flow of fluid through the tube via the mandrels. A measured strain-producing load, continuous or cyclical, is applied by an
apparatus which controllably moves the first mandrel relative to the second mandrel such that a cross-sectional shape of the
tube between the mandrels is altered. (2 figures).
ABSTRACT
This patent application discloses a system for testing a flexible tube. Another object of the present invention is to provide
a system for testing a flexible tube that minimizes unwanted tube distortion. Still another object of the present invention is to
provide a system for testing the fluid handling performance of the flexible tube as the flexible tube experiences load conditions.
First and second hollow mandrels are inserted into opposing ends of the tube. Each mandrel has a conically tapered portion
at one end thereof and a cylindrical portion extending from the conically tapered portion. The cylindrical portion has a plurality
of annular indentations formed thereabout. Each of a plurality of clamps encircle the tube in line with one annular indentation
to engage the tube with a seal. A fluid delivery system is coupled between the cylindrical portions of the mandrels to deliver
a flow of fluid through the tube via the mandrels. A measured strain-producing load, continuous or cyclical, is applied by an
apparatus which controllably moves the first mandrel relative to the second mandrel such that a cross-sectional shape of the
tube between the mandrels is altered. (2 figures).