Abstract: A flexible joint for a conduit transporting fluid under pressure includes a pair of spaced rigid rings. An annular flexible element is disposed between and sealingly engaging the rings so as to define a pair of annular exposed side surfaces on the element. One side surface is exposed to pressurized fluid flowing through the conduit, thereby creating a pressure differential across the flexible element between its side surfaces. To resist the load that results from the pressure differential, the flexible element incorporates a body of elastomer that has a thickness between the rings which decreases from the one side surface of the element to the other side surface. The flexible element can thus resiliently accommodate relative motion between the rings, while providing a fluid-tight, pressure-resistant seal.

Abstract: A flexible joint assembly for interconnecting two conduits that transport fluid under pressure includes an annular housing and a tubular member of smaller diameter than the housing. The housing has adjacent each end an annular flange that extends radially inwardly relative to the housing. Disposed between the flanges of the housing is an annular flange which extends radially outwardly adjacent one end of the tubular member. The other end of the tubular member projects through an opening at one end of the housing for attachment to a fluid conduit. Within the housing and encircling the tubular member is a rigid annulus. On each side of the rigid annulus is an annular flexible element that encircles the tubular member and includes at least one body of elastomer. The flexible elements are joined to the rigid annulus and to adjacent flanges of the tubular member and the housing so as to define a fluid-tight seal and load bearing connection between the tubular member and the housing.