Clamp for longitudinally aligning pipe sections

摘要

The clamp includes a pair of generally semicylindrical clamp sections each comprised of an open framework including a plurality of longitudinally extending circumferentially spaced guide bars and a plurality of longitudinally spaced, circumferentially extending stiffeners interconnecting the guide bars. The sections are preferably hinged one to the other along one side thereof and suitable bolts, clamps, etc. are provided for securing the opposite sides of the clamp sections one to the other. At least one end of the clamp is provided with a plurality of circumferentially spaced elements for guiding a pipe section end into the cylindrical clamp. The inner edges of the guide bars are recessed at like axial positions at a location corresponding to the location of the joint between the pipe sections to provide access to the pipe joint for welding the same. In use, the clamp is disposed about the end of one pipe section with the recessed portions of the guide bars in lateral alignment with the end of the pipe. The other pipe section is then received in the opposite end of the clamp whereby the pipe sections are longitudinally aligned for welding.