Abstract: A seal assembly that includes a substantially annular cylindrical configuration that defines an aperture that defines a cylindrical axis and a radial direction is provided. The seal assembly comprises a spring member that includes two arm portions that extend substantially in a direction that is parallel to the cylindrical axis and that meet forming a flex point, and a sealing member that at least partially encapsulates the spring member and that includes: a first sealing feature, and a second sealing feature that is positioned axially and radially adjacent the flex point of the spring member and that faces in a direction that is diametrically opposite the direction that the first sealing feature faces along the radial direction, and an elastomeric material that includes a base resistant type 5 fluoroleastomer made from a copolymer of propylene and tetrafluoroethylene.

Abstract: A face seal includes first and second members which are mounted together, a seal member, and a backup ring. The first member extends along a longitudinal axis and defines an interior cavity. The first and second members each includes a respective sealing surface that extends radially relative to the longitudinal axis. At least one of the sealing surfaces defines an annular groove. The seal member is disposed within the annular groove and is in sealing contact with the sealing surfaces. The backup ring is disposed within the annular groove such that the seal member is radially inward of the backup ring. One sealing surface is movable relative to the other sealing surface in response to increased interior cavity pressure, thereby defining a gap therebetween. The backup ring is interposed between the seal member and the gap such that the backup ring occludes an opening to the gap.

Abstract: A tube assembly is provided for connecting a tube with an external system. The tube assembly includes a spherical flange that is attached to the end of the tube in various ways. The spherical flange can include a triangular shaped groove that receives the sealing member. The spherical flange is then inserted into a cup flange with the tube connected thereto. Connecting members are used to couple the captive flange and the cup flange together to help restrict the degrees of rotation or movement of the spherical flange to about 5° to 9° in relation to an axis.

Abstract: A method for testing a performance of a plurality of sealing members includes providing a testing fixture including at least two blocks in a contacting relationship with a plurality of fixtures. Each of the plurality of fixtures defines a groove portion for receiving a sealing member. The method further includes connecting each of the plurality of fixtures with a fluid manifold. The method also includes controlling a temperature of each of the at least two blocks and the groove portion using a thermal device. Each of the at least two blocks and the groove portions are at temperatures different from each other. The method also includes passing a fluid through each of the plurality of fixtures so as to flow through a channel provided adjacent to and surrounding the groove portion. The method further includes monitoring a response of the sealing members to determine at least one performance parameter.