Abstract: A joint has a first flange rigidly secured to the outer peripheral surface of an end portion of a first pipe and a second flange rigidly secured to the outer peripheral surface of an end portion of a second pipe. The first and second flanges are aligned with each other and joined together by nuts and bolts so that the first and second pipes are connected together and maintained in a hermetically sealed state by a closed loop-shaped sealing member clamped between the first and second flanges. The sealing member is fitted on the end portion of the second pipe which slightly projects from the second flange. The sealing member is formed by wrapping a thin metal sheet around heat resistant material and has an inner diameter which is equal to or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the second pipe. A frusto-conical surface aligned with the sealing member defines a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the first flange.