Coupling for direct venting system

Abstract

A pipe coupling for components of a venting system comprising a male pipe member on an end of a first component and a female pipe member on a corresponding end of a second component. The male pipe member comprises an inner flue pipe having a compressible gasket surrounding the inner flue pipe proximate an external end of the inner flue pipe, an external venting pipe surrounding the inner flue pipe and brackets linking the inner flue pipe to the external venting pipe. The female pipe member receives the male pipe member and comprises an inner flue sleeve being sized larger than the outer diameter of the flue pipe at an outer end of the sleeve. The inner flue sleeve remains in circumferential contact with the compressible gasket when the male pipe member is inserted into the female pipe member.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0001] The present invention is directed to a venting system. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a coupling for a direct venting system for fireplaces and stoves. The present patent application claims priority of U.S. 60 / 780,062 filed Mar. 8, 2006, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Direct-vent gas fireplaces or stoves solve many of the problems associated with wood-burning forebears. Unlike traditional masonry fireplaces with foundations and chimneys, direct-vent units take advantage of technologies that allow small clearances. These systems are typically prefabricated from metal and designed to be installed in wood-frame constructions without a foundation or a chimney. As the direct-vent systems burn efficiently, combustion gases can be vented directly out a wall. These systems are much easier and less expensive to install than masonry units and allow much greater flexibility in...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0028] A gasketed seal inner flue joint preventing contamination of outside air with flue gases.

[0040] The present system offers several advantages including a leak proof coupling and pipe construction, a strong and durable design, an esthetically pleasant looking pipe, a faster and easier installation, an increased efficiency of the system and safer installation.

Problems solved by technology

A number of venting systems have been proposed, but none has been entirely satisfactory due to different problems described below.

Because many installations are side vented, many of the field problems associated with direct venting are wind-related.

Wind direction is also responsible for the poor performance of appliances.

Another common problem in the field for horizontal installation systems is cold air infiltration (especially in northern areas).

The cold air infiltration decreases the overall efficiency of the system

Prior art venting systems also have another problem related to pipe assembly.

Several pipe assemblies require sealant application in the field to make the assemblies leak proof which complicates their installation and causes difficulties when cleaning up after installation.

Yet another problem with prior art systems is related to maintenance of pipe assemblies.

Not only parts of the prior art systems are difficult to assemble, but also they are equally difficult to disassemble when routine maintenance is required.

Images