Abstract: The invention is an improved valve mechanism for controlling the flow in conduit to be used in combination with an adjustable valve. The adjustable valve includes a T-shaped valve body having a first bore extending therethrough and a second bore adjacent to the first bore. The adjustable valve also includes a stem having an inner end and an axially outer end which extends through one of the ends of the first bore and a device for forming a seal between the first bore and the stem. The valve mechanism includes a cylindrically shaped sealing member having a bore axially aligned with the first bore of the valve body and being disposed within the first bore adjacent to the end thereof oppositely disposed from the stem. The sealing member has a cylindrical inner sidewall and a truncated-conical outer sidewall adjacent to its top portion and a cylindrical outer sidewall adjacent to its bottom portion.

Abstract: A ball and socket type coupling for connecting the ends of two pipes which may be axially misaligned by as much as several degrees. It includes a pair of coupling members, each of which is arranged for connection to one of the pipes to be connected. One of the members has attached at the other end thereof a ball portion, and the other coupling member has attached thereto a housing arranged for receiving in mating relationship therewith the forward surface of the ball portion. Seal means are disposable between the ball and the housing member for providing a fluid seal therebetween.