Pipe fitting cover for covering pipe fitting

The invention relates to rigid and semi-rigid pipe fitting covers and a process for covering pipe fittings. More specifically, the invention relates to pipe fitting covers which by their geometrical design are adapted to be folded into a shape that conforms to the shape of a given pipe fitting.

The conveyance of hot or cold fluids through piping and piping assemblies normally makes it desirable to insulate the piping. Usually, this involves wrapping or placing an insulation material over the exterior of the piping and covering the insulation.

Early efforts at insulating piping consisted of spreading cement in place on the exterior of the pipes and pipe fittings and then adhering a fabric covering over it. Prior art procedures have progressed since then to include aluminum and plastic covers for the piping and various fittings, used in conjunction with insulation materials such as fiberglass blanket or urethane foam. In some instances the insulation material is adhered to the inside surface of the cover such that the insulation and cover are joined in place at the same time. In other instances the insulation is first formed or placed around the piping or pipe fittings and the aluminum or plastic covers are then secured in place over the insulation.

Certain covers designed specifically for elbow pipe fittings are described . They are made from rigid, semi-resilient material as a single, integral structure having the shape of an elongated, open-ended trough. When placed into position around the elbow joint during installation, the cover assumes a shape in the configuration of the elbow joint. The material from which the shaped cover is formed can be a thin walled synthetic plastic material, for example, a rigid vinyl resin, and the cover can be used with or without insulation adhered to the inner surface.

Also noteworthy are pipe fitting covers described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,732,894 (Botsolas, May, 1973). They are comprised of two shaped half-sections connected together at a single point around which the two sections can rotate. The unique design provides advantages in shipping and storage by enabling the half-sections to be revolved into a superimposed, nested relationship. This permits stacking, which in turn facilitates handling and minimizes the usage of space.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an efficient, economical and more convenient way to insulate pipe fittings in a piping assembly.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a pipe fitting cover made of a watertight material that can easily be cut and trimmed into the proper geometric shape of the pipe fitting to be covered.

It is a further object to provide a pipe fitting cover made of a rigid or semi-rigid material that can be easily wrapped around the pipe fitting and secured snugly in place.

To achieve these objectives, a fitting cover has been provided which, in essence, is made of a rigid or semirigid watertight material as a single piece of integral structure in a first, substantially flat shape. The cover is adapted in its geometry or outline to be folded into a second shape that conforms geometrically to the shape of the pipe fitting to be covered. The cover includes two, or more, outward projections, or tabs, which serve as connecting members to secure the cover snugly in place over the fitting.

The cover members of this invention are designed to be used with a variety of pipe fittings, including, especially, tee and elbow fittings.

In practice, the tee cover can be installed over a range of insulation thicknesses due to the capacity of the covers to be cut and trimmed to the proper shape and size, even on the job site.