Abstract: Systems for joining pipes used in the food processing and pharmaceutical industries are disclosed. For example, connections of fluid handling pipes and improved flange-type joints are disclosed. Some disclosed joints comprise a pair of flanges each defining a circumferentially extending channel recessed from an end face A radially extending end wall is positioned radially outward of the end face. Said end faces are retained in axially opposed relationship to each other such that a circumferential groove configured to receive a gasket is defined when the joint is assembled. The groove has a first portion open to the flow passage and a second portion extending radially outward from the first portion. A polymeric gasket can comprise a generally toroidal member axially compressed in the first portion of the groove when the joint is assembled. The radial end walls radially compress the gasket, and the gasket can expand radially outward.

Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus that provides an apparatus for continuously re-hydrating, cooking or blanching dried solid products. Specifically, the apparatus provides controlled high pressure and temperature to continuously re-hydrate, cook or blanch dried food products while maintaining food product integrity and quality.