Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector for mechanically joining members having large force loading while enabling limited relative angular movement therebetween. The connector employs a plurality of stacked metal roll plates to provide rolling metal-to-metal contact while avoiding sliding movement of contacting members transmitting the force load between connector members. Each of the roll plates is provided with a concave and convex load carrying surface with the radius of the concave surface greater than that of the convex surface to provide rolling rather than sliding contact. To obtain universal angular movement, one embodiment of the connector employs a single stack of spherical surface roll plates while a second embodiment employs a plurality of roll plate stacks having substantially cylindrical load carrying surfaces.

Abstract: An improved ball-type valve apparatus adapted for use in flowlines which provide a straight through flow path which minimizes flow turbulance and flow resistance in either direction through the valve housing. The ball is rotated by a crank between the open and closed positions for controlling flow through the valve. Oppositely facing seat rings engage the ball on opposite sides to provide a dual redundant sealing system with the primary seals located at the upstream seat with the secondary seal formed at the downstream seat. An access plug retains the ball in the valve housing and is secured with the valve housing by a segmented locking ring. When the plug is removed from the housing maintenance or assembly access to the ball, seat rings and their retaining means without disturbing the connections of the valve housing in the flowlines is provided.