Thermoplastic saddle in two parts for repairing or renovating a pipeline with branch pipe and repaired or renovated pipe with a saddle

PCT No. PCT/NL90/00174 Sec. 371 Date May 21, 1992 Sec. 102(e) Date May 21, 1992 PCT Filed Nov. 21, 1990 PCT Pub. No. WO91/07619 PCT Pub. Date May 30, 1991.A thermoplastic saddle (6) for renovating or repairing a pipeline (1) with a branch pipe (2). The saddle comprises two saddle parts (20, 22) being movable with respect to each other. The first saddle part (20) comprises a flexible saddle plate (6') and a first connecting part (21) being integral therewith. The second saddle part (22) comprises a branch (8) provided with a second connecting part (23). The part (21) tapers towards its open free end (12') and the second connecting part has a spherical circumference (23a). The position of connecting parts (23, 23a) with respect to connecting part (21) ensures that branch (8) is retained in connecting part (21) if said branch is subjected to pulling forces. In a renovated or repaired pipeline (1) the saddle is fixed by fixing means preferably an expanded plastic fixing sleeve (13). However, fixation by a glued connection (112) and/or sealed connection (113) is also possible. The branch (8) is widened by heat so that it clampingly engages the inner wall of branch pipe (2). Sealing means may be used for sealing saddle parts and opposite lying parts. Widening of branch (8) and/or fixing sleeve (13) is performed by means of an inflatable balloon device e.g. as shown in FIG. 7.