Patent ID: 6027125
Filing Date: 2000-02-22
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
A tube coupling having a throughway open at one end to receive a tube end, an annular groove encircling said throughway at a location spaced from said open throughway end, an annular flexible sealing washer located between spaced first and second sides of said groove, and means for sealing the sides of said washer to the respective said sides of said groove, said washer having an inner peripheral portion which projects through the open mouth of said groove, the inner periphery of said washer engaging an outer surface of a tube which is closely fitted within said throughway, said first groove side being located nearest said open throughway end and lying in a plane generally transverse to said throughway, said washer being located adjacent said first groove side, flexing of said inner peripheral washer portion towards said open throughway end big limited by said first groove side, said second groove side opposite said first groove side and having an annular recess at said mouth of said groove, said groove increased in width at said mouth by said annular recess whereby said inner peripheral washer portion is allowed to take up a curvature adjacent its inner periphery on forcing a tube of slightly greater diameter than the inner diameter of said washer through said throughway and said washer, deformation of said inner peripheral washer portion by said tube providing a seal between said washer inner periphery and the outside surface of the tube, and wherein the seal between said washer and the tube is enhanced by fluid pressure on the side of said sealing washer facing into said coupling body.