Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A coupling apparatus includes first and second coupling members each having the form of a hollow conduit having a radially extending flange at a first end, an axially extending sleeve defining a second end adapted to connect with a fluid transport fitting, and a fluid transport passageway running axially therethrough. Each flange has a generally planar axially facing frontside surface. In one embodiment, the frontside surface of the first coupling member flange has at least one integral tongue extending axially outwardly therefrom, and the frontside surface of the second coupling member flange has at least one groove disposed axially therein. Each tongue is placed within a respective tongue to form a liquid-tight seal when frontside surfaces of the first and second coupling member flanges are joined together. In another embodiment, the frontside surfaces of each first and second coupling flange include at least one groove disposed axially therein. At least one seal ring independent from the flanges is interposed between adjoining frontside surfaces so that axially facing edges of the seal ring placed within respective grooves to form a liquid-tight seal when the frontside surfaces of the first and second coupling member flanges are joined together. The frontside surfaces are held together by a nut installed over the first and second coupling member flanges.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim