Abstract: A fuel injector isolating and sealing member is provided having a sleeve portion defining a bore that is sufficiently configured to receive at least a portion of a fuel injector. Additionally, the fuel injector isolating and sealing member includes a flange portion extending inwardly from the sleeve portion. The flange portion is radially offset to bias the fuel injector within the bore. The fuel injector isolating and sealing member includes a core portion that is at least partially covered with an inner isolating and sealing layer and is at least partially covered with an outer isolating and sealing layer. The inner and outer isolating and sealing layers are preferably formed from fluorocarbon elastomeric polymer, while the core portion is preferably formed from stainless steel. An internal combustion engine and fuel injection system incorporating the disclosed isolating and sealing member is also provided.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a connection assembly and method suitable for high-pressure applications. Specifically, end fittings securable to a fuel line may be configured to reduce the stress concentration factor between the fuel line and the end fitting. The end fitting is spherical and the mating structures have conical surfaces contacting the spherical end fitting to increase the assembly's tolerance of misalignments between the end fitting and mating fitting.