High-pressure leak testing apparatus and packer

摘要

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the locking apparatus for maintaining in closed condition the two halves of the casing sections of a high pressure leak-testing apparatus for pipe joints comprises a plurality of bifurcated links. The locking apparatus further comprises a substantial number of hooks having end portions pivotally connected to the bifurcated links, the connections being at relatively thin hook portions which nest with the links. With the described construction by which a bifurcated or yoke-shaped end of one element is nested relative to a relatively thin portion of another element, it is possible to achieve extremely strong locking of the casing sections in closed condition despite the great pressure contained within the tester. In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, the packer of the leak-testing apparatus comprises a hollow cylindrical mass of rubber which is split, and has insert elements molded therein. There are split extrusion-prevention elements at each end of the cylinder and adapted to seat next to the pipe being tested. The extrusion-prevention elements are formed of synthetic resin adapted to flex, the resin having a resistance to extrusion much greater than that of the rubber forming the cylinder.