Abstract: A rotary seal assembly for a rotary kiln having a hood and a rotary drum with an opening formed between the drum and the hood, and an end. The rotary seal assembly includes a flexible framework arrangement that attaches to the end. The rotary seal assembly includes a riding surface that engages the drum as the drum rotates and connects with the framework arrangement in response to the movement of the drum as the drum rotates end. The rotary seal assembly includes a seal that is supported by the riding surface and is in essentially 360 degree contact with the drum when it is rotating and seals the opening between the drum when it is rotating in the hood to prevent fluid flow into and out of the end. A method for sealing an opening formed between a drum and a hood. The method includes the steps of attaching a flexible framework arrangement to the hood.