Patent ID: 8733799

Claim:
In combination, first and second pipe elements, a sealing member and a coupling, said coupling comprising: a plurality of segments joined end to end, said coupling for securing said pipe elements together in end to end relationship, said segments having surfaces facing inwardly and engageable with outer surfaces of said pipe elements, said segments having adjustably tightenable connection members for drawing said segments toward said pipe elements, each of said segments having an annular channel positioned between said surfaces, said sealing member being positioned between said segments within said annular channels, said sealing member comprising: a flexible, resilient ring having a ring inner surface adapted to engage said outer surfaces of said pipe elements, said ring inner surface having a diameter sized to receive said pipe elements upon insertion of said pipe elements between said segments, said ring having a ring outer surface having a diameter for supporting said segments in a preassembled state wherein said segments are attached to one another by said connection members and supported on said ring in spaced apart relation sufficient to allow said pipe elements to be axially inserted therebetween; and wherein said segments being first joined end to end surrounding said ring, said segments being thereby initially supported on said ring in said spaced apart relation in said preassembled state, said pipe elements being then inserted into said ring supporting said segments, said segments then being adjustably tightened and drawing said segments toward and into engagement with said pipe elements.