Abstract: A self-retaining, recessed seal for reception in an open top groove, where the groove is neither configured for seal retention (e.g., convergent side walls), nor provided with seal retention features such as flanges, projections, etc. No adhesives are required, enabling the seal to be easily removed for cleaning, etc. The self-retaining seal has a bottom structure with lateral extensions, wider than the groove, with upwardly angled surfaces at the edges and portions that extend upward when compressed laterally by the walls of the groove. Side walls of the seal extend upward from the bottom structure and are slightly narrower than the groove, to avoid or minimize contact with the groove side walls when the seal is inflated. The configuration enables relatively easy installation of the seal but effectively prevents the seal from “walking” out of the groove over time, with repeated cycles of inflation and deflation.

Abstract: A self-retaining, recessed seal for reception in an open top groove, where the groove is neither configured for seal retention (e.g., convergent side walls), nor provided with seal retention features such as flanges, projections, etc. No adhesives are required, enabling the seal to be easily removed for cleaning, etc. The self-retaining seal has a bottom structure with lateral extensions, wider than the groove, with upwardly angled surfaces at the edges and portions that extend upward when compressed laterally by the walls of the groove. Side walls of the seal extend upward from the bottom structure and are slightly narrower than the groove, to avoid or minimize contact with the groove side walls when the seal is inflated. The configuration enables relatively easy installation of the seal but effectively prevents the seal from “walking” out of the groove over time, with repeated cycles of inflation and deflation.

Abstract: A method of making a high performance seal wherein an uncured elastomeric material is tightly encapsulated in a tubular section of uncured perfluoroelastomer, where the elastomeric material and the perfluoroelastomer are chosen to have similar cure characteristics. The uncured encapsulation is formed into a desired shape for the seal, and vulcanized under heat and pressure.

Abstract: A new septum for multiple use injection ports enabling the introduction of fluid materials by needle injection into a gas chromatograph or other system under positive pressure. The injection port utilizes a special septum to seal the port while accommodating passage of an injection needle. The septum is provided with an axial through passage, preferably of greater diameter than the injection needle. The septum, which is formed of elastomeric material, is placed under axial compression sufficient to inwardly displace the material surrounding the preformed opening, to tightly close and seal the opening against the pressure of the system. The septum may be penetrated multiple times by injection needles without coring or otherwise damaging the septum. Greater operating life is achieved and contamination of the system is minimized.

Abstract: A new septum for multiple use injection ports enabling the introduction of fluid materials by needle injection into a gas chromatograph or other system under positive pressure. The injection port utilizes a special septum to seal the port while accommodating passage of an injection needle. The septum is provided with an axial through passage, preferably of greater diameter than the injection needle. The septum, which is formed of elastomeric material, is placed under axial compression sufficient to inwardly displace the material surrounding the preformed opening, to tightly close and seal the opening against the pressure of the system. The septum may be penetrated multiple times by injection needles without coring or otherwise damaging the septum. Greater operating life is achieved and contamination of the system is minimized.