Abstract: An expansion joint is disclosed for connection between fluid flow conduits for permitting the expansion and contraction of the conduits while sealing same. The joint includes telescoping cylindrical members each connectable to a conduit and having a rolling seal or membrane connected therebetween to prevent leakage of fluid out of the joint. One of the members includes an inwardly turned, annular shoulder formed so as to closely surround the other member during full relative movement between the members to prevent the seal from coming in contact with foreign matter. The expansion joint is provided with a plurality of guide rods which are arranged circumferentially around the pipe joint and serve to lock the rolling seal in operative position with one member and to guide the movement of the other member during movement of members relative to each other.

Abstract: A link assembly for a bellows joint interposed in high pressure aircraft ducting wherein at least one of the links is preferably machines to have a pair of spaced apart legs of one width and an arcuate web extending therebetween of a width greater than said legs. Each of said links is preferably of a metal alloy wherein the hardness of each link differs from the other.

Abstract: A pipe harness clamp for use when two pipes, which may be of different materials, are axially coupled, includes arcuate clamping portions for contacting outer surfaces of a pipe and radially extending portions for bolting together. An elastomeric liner is fitted around the pipe, under the clamp, to assure a close fit between the pipe contour and the clamp. Stiffening gussets extend on the outside of the clamp between the arcuate clamping portions and the radially extending portions, in a plane substantially perpendicular to the axis of the pipe. Preload washers, such as disk washers, are provided on the clamping bolts to control preload. A plurality of washers may be used on each bolt. Belleville washers are preferred. The belleville washers compensate for any relaxation of the clamp halves and bolts and preload is not significantly reduced, thus maintaining load capacity of the clamp.

Abstract: The invention relates to a stuffing box for the sealed passage of a shaft with undesirable deflection through connecting branch, provided with a casing, a stuffing box sland containing packing rings, as well as with a tubular spring compensator, one end of which is rigidly and releasably engaged with the connecting branch, the other end with the casing of the stuffing box. At least one guide bush (10) is arranged in the casing (8) centering the stuffing box (7) to the shaft (2). This guide bush can be arranged between the packing rings (9, 9a) and over (11) of the casing, and it is made of material, suitably of bearing material with low friction coefficient.

Abstract: An axial force resisting pipe coupling for coupling pipes in aligned end-to-end relation. The coupling is of a simplified, economical construction comprising a plurality of axially aligned spaced clamps, including a central clamp and two outrigger clamps, attached to a common bar, and the coupling may be formed by retrofitting an existing central clamp with the outrigger clamps and bar. Each of the clamps consist of a generally circular band terminating in opposed connecting end flanges and are attached to the bar at the flanges by fasteners which also facilitate circumferential contraction and expansion of the clamps. Projections may be formed on the bands for embedding into the pipe members to minimize the likelihood of the pipes pulling apart due to high tension forces.

Abstract: A delivery line for conveying viscous or pasty material to be filled into a food can or the like from a conveyor pump to a filling machine, having a delivery path developed in the form of a trombone tube with two sections extending parallel to each other and a U-shaped arch, the legs of which cooperate telescopically with the two sections. A pneumatic or hydraulic piston unit is provided to act on the U-shaped arch against the pressure of the filling material in the direction toward a shortening of the delivery path.

Abstract: An interconnection arrangement (100) is disclosed for structurally interconnecting together pipe segments (102, 104) with a coupling device (106). In one embodiment, the coupling device is a sleeve coupling (106) having an inner diameter larger than the outer diameters of the pipe segments (102, 104). A set of four clips (118) are employed, with each clip (118) having a lip (120) and a series of tines (126). The clips (118) are engaged with longitudinal edge surfaces of the sleeve coupling (106), and the pipe segments (102, 104) are telescoped into the coupling (106). The tines (126) of the clips (118) "bite" into the inner surface (114) of the sleeve coupling (106), and the outer surfaces (108) of the pipe segments (102, 104).

Abstract: A flexible flow through saddle for ship-to-ship refueling systems. The flble flow through saddle includes a tubular structure having a pair of ribs located on the top and bottom of the tubular structure, each rib having an aperture therein. Extending from each end of the tubular structure and having an end portion thereof connected to the tubular structure is a helical shaped wire. The opposite end portion of each helical shaped wire is connected to a coupling member. That portion of each helical shaped wire between the coupling member and the tubular structure is encased in an elastomeric material which provides for flexibility and prevents premature fatigue and rupture of a hose element connected by the coupling member to the tubular structure through the encased helical shaped wire.

Abstract: A retaining device comprising, a reservoir for retaining a liquid, a first elongated conduit, and a second elongated conduit. An upper end of the first and second conduits is connected in fluid communication to the reservoir. Upper ends of the first and second conduits are retained to the reservoir in order to prevent them from inadvertently pulling out from the reservoir.

Abstract: A mechanical scanning system for a batch ion implanter includes a disk for mounting wafers at sites near its periphery and a disk drive assembly for rotating the disk. The disk and the disk drive assembly are supported in an end station vacuum chamber by a scan arm which extends through a sealed opening in an access door. A scan drive assembly attached to the access door scans the scan arm and the disk in an arc-shaped path. Simultaneous rotation and scanning of the disk cause the ion beam to be distributed over the surfaces of the wafers mounted on the disk. A pivot drive assembly rotates the scan arm and the disk about a pivot axis between an implant position and a load/unload position. A bellows seals the scan arm to the vacuum chamber while tranmitting arc-shaped movement into the vacuum chamber. A bellows guide apparatus guides an intermediate portion of the bellows so as to limit lateral distortion caused by pressure differences applied to the bellows in combination with asymmetrical deflection thereof.

Abstract: In a vibro-isolating joint including two rigid flanges, a flexible cylindrical member such as bellows interposed between the flanges and a plurality of limiting bolts extended through opposed through holes in the flanges, a cylindrical elastomer body is retained in each of through holes in at least one of the flanges and a hollow sleeve is concentrically integrated with the elastomer body so as to protrude one end of the hollow sleeve from an outer surface of the flange so that lock nuts on the limiting bolts engage the protruded ends of the hollow sleeves resiliently supported in the through holes, respectively to thereby provide a high axial thrust together with a vibration isolating property.

Abstract: A motorcycle exhaust pipe heat shield structure comprising a series of telescopically interfitting semi-annular shield members defining a lengthwise elongated shield sized to fit over the outer side of the exhaust pipe; and a rod extending adjacent the members and connected thereto; the rod being bendable, accompanied by relative angular adjustment of the members, to conform to a bend or bends in the exhaust pipe; the shield being attachable to the exhaust pipe, to extend lengthwise thereof, and at the outer side thereof.

Abstract: A connector specially suited for coupling soft resilient hose, in particular polyurethane hose, includes complementary male and female members defining a pair of concentric and generally parallel conical surfaces which receive therebetween the end of the hose to be engaged. At least one sharp circumferential barb is fixedly positioned along the conical surface of the male member to bite into the inner sidewall of the hose, to thereby effectively prevent the hose from slipping off the connector during assembly or subsequent use. The two complementing members are also provided with a pair of cooperating annular shoulders which abuttingly engage when the two members are joined together, to position the conical surface of the male member completely within the female member and thereby eliminate the danger of cutting and for damaging the hose along a projecting edge of the connector.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a fitting consisting of a tubular body which may be readily installed over the end of a smooth wall conduit and removed therefrom and may be quickly connected to a standard unisex adapter mounted on the end of a hose line to place the conduit and hose line in fluid communication. The fitting includes a positive lock for attaching the fitting to the conduit and a flexible retainer is employed for safety purposes to resist "blow off".

Abstract: Carbon or graphite tubes which are mutually connected by an adhesive connection are less stressable than individual tubes. A sleeve formed of fibers and impregnated with a thermoplast is pulled onto the connection position. The new connection increases the stressability of connected tubes. The thermoplast limits the build up of stressing so that the reduction factor of the strength of the connection amounts only to 10 to 15%.

Abstract: A band (or eyelet) (16 or 17) is crimped onto a cable (12) so as to form at least one flange (18 or 19). The flange (18 or 19) is received in a slot between fingers (23) of a receptacle (20) so as to provide both longitudinal and rotational strain relief.

Abstract: Carbon or graphite tubes which are mutually connected by bonding are less highly stressable than individual tubes. A sleeve formed of fibers is drawn on to the connection location of the tubes. An intermediate section of the sleeve is firmly connected with the tubes. Foils are introduced between end sections of the sleeve and the tubes. The foils are displaceable in the direction of the tube axes. This structure increases the resistance of the connected tubes to stress. The strength reduction factor of the connection is about 10% as compared to the tubes alone.

Abstract: A splitt clamp assembly for pipe flanges, comprising an outer ring with internal threads for securing it to an externally threaded first pipe flange, and a plurality of arcuate segments interconnected by keys into an inner ring, means to secure the inner ring to a second pipe flange, and means to secure the inner and outer rings together in a relative non-rotable manner.

Abstract: A clip (60) is provided for holding a union (50) joining two tubes (34, 36) together. Clip (60) has a pair of spaced-apart plate members (4,6) integrally joined at one end (10) for receiving union (50) therebetween with plate members (4,6) having respective slots (14,12) for receiving the tubes thereto. Plate members (4,6) have at least one resilient arm (16) operative to hold the tubes in the slots and at least one latch member (18) is provided for bridging across slots (14,12) and holding plates (4,6) against union (50).

Abstract: Cables supporting and actually limiting excursion of a flexible thin-walled tube are held in position by spacers which are formed with recesses to receive the cables. To permit easy assembly, and eliminate threading the cables on the spacers with the hose in position, the spacers are formed as half-ring elements, coupled together independently of the cables which pass through recesses. The recesses may be tangentially or radially open slits so that the half elements can be slipped over a subassembly of hose and cables, or the recesses can be formed adjacent overlapping or abutting end portions of the half elements. The recesses also may be in the form of through-bores, on which half elements are threaded, the half elements then being fitted against each other around the hose. The half elements are held together either by external rings, interlocked with the half elements, or by overlapping regions, connected together by hook-and-recess connections, welding, adhesive or the like.

Abstract: A tuyere stock for a blast furnace comprises three pipes arranged end-to-end. Between the first and second pipes and between the second and third pipes there are flexible bellows units and a pair of links on opposite sides of the second pipe are connected at their ends through spherical bearings to the first and third pipes so as to permit relative movement between the first and third pipes in two mutually normal directions which are also normal to the longitudinal axes of the links.

Abstract: A fail-safe bellows assembly eliminates the usual limit bolts and replaces them with a cylindrical guard that encircles the bellows element with its associated coupling flanges and interconnects said flanges so as to permit a limited safe magnitude of elongation and articulation. The guard is connected to one of said flanges, with a coupling or linking to the other flange that permits the desired safe freedom of movement. In one embodiment one of the flanges has the guard clamped to its periphery while the other flange couples to the guard with pins and apertures. Another embodiment uses pins projecting radially inwardly from the guard at one end, replacing the pins in the flange and cooperating apertures in the guard.In addition to the guards, an elastic sleeve is joined to the periphery of each flange with a fluid-tight seal, and a vent passage through one flange interconnects the inter-flange space with the exterior for safe discharge of any fluid escaping from the bellows element.

Abstract: Fabric expansion joints suitable for use in the exhaust systems of gas turbines are of three types definable with reference to whether a frame is to be connected to a duct section which is externally insulated or one which is internally insulated. In joints where only the outlet frame or where both the inlet and outlet frames are to be connected to internally insulated sections, the flanges of the liners are connected to their frames in a manner preventing movement of the liners relative to the axis of the flow path through the joint but permitting thermal flange growth relative to the frames. Where a frame is to be connected to an externally insulated duct, the frame includes structure spaced from the flange of the liner which defines therewith an inwardly opening, thermal distribution channel. In each type, the free ends of the liners overlap in a spaced apart relationship and are interconnected in a manner permitting relative lengthwise movement between them.

Abstract: Disclosed is a supercharger system (30) for an internal combustion engine (14) mounted for movement on a vehicle chassis (18). The supercharger system includes a Roots-type blower (22) fixed to the engine, an engine intake manifold (20) fixed to the engine, a chassis mounted intercooler (32), and a ducting system (34). The supercharger and intercooler and the intercooler and intake manifold each include three rigid duct members (46, 48, 50 and 54, 56, 58) connected at their interface by couplings (52, 60, 62, 64) allowing articulation therebetween. Each coupling includes telescoping ends of adjacent duct ends (46b, 50a) radially spaced apart for allowing articulation of the duct members and links 76 for limiting articulation about predetermined axes transverse to the telescoping duct ends. The radial space between the telescoping duct ends is closed by a low durometer ring seal.

Abstract: A smooth bore, self-aligning connection for pipes of the type used in hydraulic dredging. In this connection, the spigot end of one pipe contacts metal to metal at the bell end of the other pipe. A packing gland is defined outwardly of the contacting pipe ends by a positioning ring toe and an annular ring of the bell. A third annular ring on the bell end engages a stepped ring on the spigot end to align the pipes longitudinally as well as radially. A locking ring which is threadedly adjustable engages a skirt depending from a fourth annular ring formed on the bell to lock the spigot end of the pipe to the bell end. The bell and spigot connection of this invention is also adaptable to a pontoon pipe having a flexible reinforced rubber hose section between the spigot and bell ends of a pipe.

Abstract: A fail-safe bellows assembly eliminates the usual limit bolts and replaces them with a cylindrical guard that encircles the bellows element with its associated coupling flanges and interconnects said flanges so as to permit a limited safe magnitude of elongation and articulation. The guard is coupled to both flanges by pins radiating from the flanges that project into apertures in the guard with the apertures lareger than the O.D. of the pins to provide for relative movement of the flanges. A radial gap between the peripheries of the flanges and the guard is filled with a compressible foam layer, and aperture occluders are interposed between foam and guard to prevent extrusion through the apertures of a secondary seal sleeve that bridges the gap between the flanges.

Abstract: A safety retainer clip for use on pressure hose fittings that provides a secondary retaining device to prevent the unintentional separation of the fitting and the hose during use in high pressure applications evident in sandblasting or the like.

Abstract: A flexible tube (1) has mutually parallel ring-shaped flutes, end connectors (2) and longitudinal support cables (4, 5, 102) which hold said connectors against changes in axial spacing, and are rigidly joined to the connectors in the direction of pull and/or pressure, and against which the tube is at least indirectly braced. The longitudinal cables are held on the tube by rings (104) that ensure the radial relative position between tube (1) and cables (4, 5, 102) and hold the cables while the tube (1) is guided along these rings via the cables. The rings are formed by two ring segments, each of which has a hole (109) at the respective segment end to retain the cables therein.

Abstract: A structure for connecting ends of exhaust pipes is disclosed. The structure for connecting is constituted by an annular elastic sealing member with heat resistance which is interposed between two overlapping surfaces of two cylinders in a temporally compressed manner, outwardly-projecting annular projection means each of which is disposed on the surfaces of the cylinders at the portions which do not overlap each other, a first coil spring member which is disposed at an adjustable interval above the surface of the cylinder, and two ends of which are secured to the annular projection means, a second coil spring member two ends of which are secured to two final coils of the first coil spring respectively, and which is disposed over the outer portion of the first coil spring in such a manner that the coil wire of the second coil spring is alternately disposed between the coil wire of the first coil spring.

Abstract: A segmented retainer gland assembly for holding pipe joints and the like together, including at least two gland segments in the shape of a circular arc forming together a circular gland for securing around a circular pipe, each of the segments having end flanges projecting substantially perpendicular to one side face of the gland segment, a clamping bracket having an inside face provided with a recess sized and shaped to receive the two end segment end flanges when adjacent ends of the gland segments are positioned together, each of the clamping brackets and gland segments having bolt holes and each of the clamping brackets having corresponding bolt holes which align with the bolt holes in the gland segments when the segments are positioned together, and bolts and nuts for securing the clamping brackets on the gland segments to hold the segments together at the end flanges to form a circular gland when the flanges are assembled together.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for sharing a load between individual sections of a vertical column. Although particularly useful in conjunction with glass lined steel columns, the present load distribution means is also useful in other vertical columns which are assembled in sections and have gasketed joints. The load sharing, or distribution, means comprises a radially extending annular member, rigidly secured along the outer periphery of each column section to be joined. The annular member is positioned adjacent to the section end. The annular members are aligned as the column sections are assembled and are spacedly secured one from another. Thus, the annular member on one section is secured, but at a distance, from the annular member on an adjacent section.

Abstract: A structure for restraining pressure thrust loads of a bellows joint while allowing angular rotation between two pipe ends is provided with a pair of toroidal limiting rings having a circular cross-section and stop rings on their inner circumference. The limiting rings are secured at an axial spacing and encircle the pipe ends. Shear lugs are fixed around each pipe end. The stop rings are engaged by the shear lugs to limit the axial expansion of the joint. The limiting rings are secured together by either two hinge arms or a gimbal ring. The gimbal ring uses two pairs of hinge arms, each at 180.degree. spacing and one pair offset 90.degree. relative to the other, with one pair of hinge arms securing the gimbal ring to one limiting ring, and the other pair of hinge arms securing the gimbal ring to the other limiting ring.

Abstract: A spacer adapted for use in an optical system holds lenses in place within a housing. The spacer has a plurality of wire column elements which extend under critical column load between the edges of spaced-apart lens elements. The wires are preformed with a bend which directs any lateral deflection parallel to a surface of the housing and out of the light ray space of the lenses. The ends of the wires are received in holes formed in a pair of spaced-apart, arcuate end members which extend circumferentially along peripheral surfaces of the lenses. The outer surfaces of the end members are shaped to mate with corresponding abutting surfaces of the lenses.

Abstract: An improved irrigation boom assembly is provided for relatively rapid and easy mounting onto the main water distribution pipe of a traveling irrigation system, particularly such as a center pivot or linear travel system. The improved boom assembly includes a water supply drop pipe adapted for rapid and secure mounting onto the main distribution pipe by an improved clamp assembly and for receiving water from the distribution pipe via a flexible feed hose. The drop pipe has a manifold at its lower end designed for facilitated connection to a lightweight boom comprising a pair of elongated wing tubes cantilevered outwardly therefrom in opposite directions, wherein the wing tubes are each supported in an adjustably selected geometry by a respective pair of support cables anchored between the drop pipe and the wing tube and threaded through support struts mounted at spaced intervals along the wing tube spans. The outboard end of each wing tube includes an easily removable end fitting to permit periodic flushing.

Abstract: The coupling comprises a sleeve which receives a pair of tubular elements thereabout. One of the elements is pinned to the sleeve, and the other has a restricted, axially-movable relationship with the sleeve. Terminal ends of the tubular elements are spaced apart, in a mutually confronting relationship, and have mounted thereto circular and resilient webs or discs. The peripheries of the discs are fastened together, and the discs resiliently flex to accommodate for expansion and contraction of the tubular elements.

Abstract: An improved universal expansion joint having counterthrust means for controlling pressure-induced expansion. Movable bellows means in the form of one or more expansible bellows or one or more contractile fluid power cylinders are disclosed for applying counterthrust force to the expansion joint. Means responsive to the pressure within the expansion joint or the temperature of or the strain on the conduit connected to the expansion joint are disclosed for applying the desired fluid pressure to the bellows means to achieve the proper counterthrust force. Also disclosed are a method of employing the improved expansion joint and a system in which the improved expansion joint is advantageously utilized.

Abstract: A pipe coupling for improved pull-apart strength of pipe lap joints is disclosed. A clamping band is applied to the outside pipe around the overlap region of the pipes. An attachment is applied around the inside pipe and the two bands are connected together by a linkage extending alongside the pipes. Preferably, a sealing structure is provided on the outer pipe in the overlap region such that sealing engagement between the outside and inside pipes is obtained when the clamping band is tightened. When the pipes are subjected to pull-apart forces, the linkage resists slippage or pull-apart motion. If there is slippage, more will occur on the side opposite the linkage and an oblique relationship of the pipes results. This produces a binding action between the pipes with increased frictional resistance to the pull-apart forces.

Abstract: A preset torque limiter sub having a pin member and a box member. The pin member is connected to a section of drill pipe and has a male connection at one end. The box member is connected to a second section of drill pipe. The male connection and the female connection are connected together. Whenever the torque on the sub exceeds a selected amount, the pin member and the box member can rotate with respect to one another. However, whenever the torque on the sub is below the selected amount, the pin member and the box member are held rigidly together.

Abstract: A gimballed conduit connector for connecting two conduits transporting high temperature and pressure fluids. Rings having two parallel tabs are attached to the ends of two conduits that are to be connected. A coupler ring between the two tabbed rings has four tab pockets through which four pins are inserted to provide axles for the rotatable retention of the tabbed rings in the connector ring. A bellows around the rings seals the connection. Optimum flexibility and life of the connector is achieved by the gimballed pin and tab system and selection of high flexibility materials and dimensions for the bellows.

Abstract: An aircraft duct gimbaled joint is disclosed which permits the ducting to be deflected when high pressure--high temperature gases, vibration and gravitational forces upon take off and during vertical climbs cause substantial expansion and movement. The gimbaled joint comprises two spaced apart end rings, each formed with a pair of perpendicular protruding lobes which are inserted into slots formed in the end face of a center ring. The protruding lobes of the end rings are pivotally connected to the center ring by pivot pins which are doubly supported by the inner and outer walls of the center ring. The lobes of the first end ring are rotated 90 degrees relative to the second end ring providing movement about a vertical and horizontal axis. The rings are sealed by a flexible bellows which fit over and enclose the center ring.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a locking mechanism for locking an endotracheal tube to a respirator, and the method of using the same. The locking mechanism comprises two clamp mechanisms and a strap interconnecting them. One of the clamp mechanisms is tightened around the endotracheal tube, and the other clamp mechanism is a quick-release clamp that is clamped onto the respirator connector in a quickly releasable manner.

Abstract: A thrust rod anchor for utilization in conjunction with a tied form of pipe joint restrainer system. The anchor utilizes two arcuate band segments the ends of which are welded to elongate junction devices such as blocks. These junctions are bolted together in the course of assembling the anchor over the outside surface of a pipe. The assemblage of junctions and arcuate band segments support thrust rod connectors having apertures formed in thrust plates thereof advantageously spaced outwardly from the band segments. Spaced away from the thrust plates of each connector are pairs of set screws. A buttress arrangement is utilized to support the thrust plates of the tie rod connectors. The anchor assemblies have been shown to provide enhanced anchoring resistance to thrust forces and to be more facilly mounted upon a pipe surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pipe fitting A, B, C with flange connection for joining at least two pipe ends angled with respect to each other, suitable for the installation of a pipe system of desired configuration with branchings and/or elbows. The pipe system to be installed has to have the capacity to be installed in the smallest possible space and with the most sharp and twisted bends in any desired direction. According to the invention this problem is solved by molding an annular rim flange (3, 4, 14, 15, 16) extending over the surface of the fitting to at least one of the connection openings (1, 2, 11, 12, 13) angled towards each other by at least 45.degree. of the arch-shaped fitting (A, C) and by the fact that the flange projection and the inner curvature of the pipe fitting (A, C) are mutually coordinated in such a way as to barely allow the positioning on the flange of a clamping collar (F) by means of which the rim flange is directly pressable against a counterflange.

Abstract: A thrust restrainer for a joint in a pipeline between a plain end of a synthetic plastic pipe and a fitting comprises a pair of semicylindrical moulded half sleeves bolted together through diametrically extending flange portions, the half sleeves having at one end an internal profile complementary to that of the fitting, and at its other end a semicylindrical internal profile matching the external surface of the pipe, the semicylindrical profile including a plurality of parallel serrations which deform the material of the pipe into engagement with the serrations on bolting together of the half sleeves.

Abstract: In order to enable a carbureter body formed of a soft material such as a synthetic resin to be coupled easily between an air cleaner and a manifold pipe in its state of not developing a distortion, the carbureter for an internal combustion engine comprises: reinforcing members each having a high rigidity and a length greater than the full length of the carbureter body but smaller than the length obtained by adding this length of the carbureter body to the thicknesses of two elastic sealing members used in coupling the carbureter body to the air cleaner and to the manifold pipe; a plurality of arms for nipping the reinforcing members in their posture of being placed along a suction bore of the carbureter body. Shaft-receiving bores for supporting a throttle valve shaft and a choke valve shaft are disposed at locations at which these valve shafts are not affected by the strains which are apt to develop when the carbureter body is coupled to the air cleaner and to the manifold pipe.

Abstract: This invention relates to a lug for anchoring the end of a tie rod at a bell flange and spigot pipe joint and for sealing more effectively the bell flange and spigot joint. One portion of the lug is positioned on a bolt which connects the bell flange and a gland and is inserted between said bell flange and said gland. The other end of the lug is formed to hold securely the end of a tie rod. The tie lug is designed in such a manner that when the tie rod is tightly anchored to the lug, pressure is thereby exerted on the gasket between the bell flange and the gland with the result that a more effective seal is achieved.

Abstract: A marine riser coupling assembly includes bolted flanges (26, 28) with a raised face (30) around the inner edge and a raised face (32) around the outer edge. In the area of the bolt holes (38), there is a recess (34) between the two raised faces around the entire circumference. Bending strain of bolts (42) is thereby reduced.

Abstract: Threaded pipe joint in which tip of the male member engages shoulder within the female member and any excess in the outer diameter of the male member over the corresponding inner diameter of the female member is so small that the hoop stress in the female member does not exceed the axial stress therein.

Abstract: A device used to restrain the flying or whipping of hoses that are accidentally detached while under pressure. The device is formed of a cable halter having slip knot type snares at each of the extremities for engagement about the hoses at a position on both sides of the expected place of separation, a pair of springs forcing the snares to close, so as to obtain a tight engagement with the hoses, and a safety fastener adapted to lock together the hose connectors. The safety fastener is connected to the cable halter by means of a secondary cable, which encircles the hoses to keep the halter cable close to the hoses.

Abstract: A conduit consisting of a metal tube, with or without a plastic tube liner, is rendered strain accommodating by securing to its ends fittings that have a first component part to one end of which is joined the usual male or female coupling means or other connector means and to the other end of which is joined a sleeve which, in turn, is connected either directly or through another component part to the metal tube end. Said sleeve is joined to the component part or parts with provision for limited axial and angular movement and a fluid-tight seal therebetween. The plastic lining tube when present may be independently connected to the first component part with a fluid-tight seal or may pass therethrough. Alternatively, a short section of plastic tubing is connected with fluid-tight seals between the two component parts when present or between the first component part and the sleeve.