Abstract: A hot bolt clamp and method for repairing a multi-bolt flange of a pipe. The clamp has enclosures that can be assembled around the multi-bolt flange. The clamp has a central opening extending through a first enclosure face and a second enclosure face for the pipe. The clamp includes a flange bolt cavities extending through the enclosure faces configured to enclose flange bolts and having a cutter channel connected to each flange bolt cavity. Restraint bolts extend through the enclosure face to restrain the multi-bolt flange. Flange bolts can be removed and replaced during the repair operation. A cutter tool apparatus can be extended through each cutter channel for use in removing stuck flange bolts. The clamp forms an injectable void around the multi-bolt flange that is injectable with sealant in the event of a loss of gasket integrity during the repair operation.

Abstract: An aircraft engine comprises a casing extending circumferentially around a central axis. A support flange is secured to the casing and extends circumferentially around the axis. The support flange has an inner and an outer flange face. A component is drivingly engaged by a shaft of the engine. The component has a connecting section extending around the central axis. The connecting section has a connecting face. The inner flange face is in abutment against the connecting face. A retaining ring extends circumferentially around the central axis. The retaining ring is in abutment against the outer flange face of the support flange. The retaining ring has a coefficient of thermal expansion, which is less than that of the support flange.

Abstract: The invention relates to a thermoplastic elastomeric bellow duct (10) having a corrugated duct segment (12) interposed between two elbowed segments (14, 18), wherein at least one of the elbowed segments (18) is made of thermoplastic elastomeric and connected to an end section (22) of the corrugated duct segment (12) by overmolding the elbowed segment (18) over the end section (22) of the corrugated duct segment (12), and wherein the end section (22) of the corrugated duct segment (12) includes a guiding and sealing arrangement (50) pointing away from the corrugated duct segment (12) in a radial direction (32). The invention further relates to an air duct (80) having such a thermoplastic elastomeric bellow duct (10).

Abstract: An illustrative example embodiment of a connector shell includes a connector cover and a cable-guiding sleeve having a curved conduit. The cover and the cable-guiding sleeve are made up of two separate elements. The cable-guiding sleeve is mounted on the cover so as to be rotatable about an axis of rotation. The cable-guiding sleeve and the cover comprise means for blocking the rotation of the cable-guiding sleeve on the cover in at least two different pre-set angular positions about the axis of rotation. These blocking means comprise shapes that engage with each other in a complementary way, and that are able to release each other and allow the passage from one angular position to the next.

Abstract: A tubular for use in the creation or completion of, or production from, an oil and/or gas well. The tubular comprises; an elongate main body; a stab-in connector element located at an end of the main body; and a rotatable connection sleeve disposed coaxially around a first end portion of the main body at or near said end of the main body. The connection sleeve is configured to provide a mechanical coupling between the tubular and another tubular without requiring rotation of the main body, to thereby provide a stab-in connection between the stab-in connector element of the tubular and a complementary stab-in connector element of the other tubular for electrical power and/or data transmission.

Abstract: A device for connecting a pump body to a pipe of a hydraulic system, characterized in that it comprises a planar flange having a thread on the inside diameter for its coupling to a tubular intake portion or delivery portion of said pump body, which is threaded complementarily on its outside diameter.

Abstract: A combination structure for a hose connected between a tire and an air compressor is disclosed. The air compressor includes a box in which a compressor unit and a sealant bottle are installed. The sealant bottle has an inlet and an outlet. The inlet of the sealant bottle is connected to one outlet tube of the compressor unit. The hose has a first end and a second end. The first end of the hose is adapted to be connected to the outlet tube of the sealant bottle. The second end of the hose can be connected to the combination structure, which generally includes a cap, a core element, and a plug. With the combination structure, the chemical sealant contained in the sealant bottle can be prevented from flowing out to contaminate objects due to incorrect operation or negligence.

Abstract: A seal (13) closing off a clearance (9) between one end in the form of a bowl (7) of an arm (4) and a circular shell (1) of a turbomachine is compressed between the rim (8) of the bowl by a support (14) distinct from the platform (10) delimiting the gas flow stream (5) and retained by screws (11) already present to fix the platform to the shell (1). The layout is lighter in weight and the resistance of seal does not depend on the platform (10) exposed to damage.

Abstract: A turbocharger, has a turbine for expanding a first medium and a compressor for compressing a second medium. The turbine includes a turbine housing and a turbine rotor. The compressor includes a compressor housing and a compressor rotor coupled to the turbine rotor via a shaft. A bearing housing is arranged between the compressor and turbine housings in which the shaft is mounted. The turbine and bearing housings are connected via a fastening device mounted on a flange of the turbine housing with a first section and a second section that covers a flange of the bearing housing at least in sections. The fastening device is contoured curved on a surface of the second section facing the flange of the bearing housing.

Abstract: Temperature of a structural member is maintained at allowable temperature or less by suppressing heat transfer from a high-temperature duct to the structural member. An insertion sheet according to the present invention is inserted between a flange and a partition panel. The flange is provided on a bleed duct and is fastened to the partition panel. The bleed duct penetrates through a partition wall of an aircraft. The insertion sheet includes first parts and a second part. The first parts are disposed near respective shafts of rivets provided at a plurality of positions of the insertion sheet. The second part extends among the first parts. The first parts bear a load of fastening, and the second part has thermal conductivity lower than thermal conductivity of the first parts.

Abstract: A testing module connectable to a thermal chamber having a wall with an access port for use in evaluating the effects of temperature on a fixed focus camera module. The testing module includes a window housing extending along a central axis between a first and a second end. A passage extends through the housing along the central axis. A window is received in the passage. A collimator mount is secured to the first end of the window housing. The collimator mount is adapted to attach a collimator to the window housing. A camera mount is secured to the second end of the window housing. The camera mount is adapted to attach the fixed focus camera module to the window housing.

Abstract: A connecting system is provided for detachably connecting a first pipe end to a second pipe end. The first pipe end has a sealing cone facing toward the second pipe end and a shoulder section. The connecting system includes a first clamping disk surrounding the first pipe end and a second clamping disk surrounding and connected to the second pipe end. The connecting system further includes a multiplicity of screws, detachably connecting the first clamping disk to the second clamping disk. The first clamping disk includes an outer circular disk ring and an inner circular disk ring which is detachably connected to the outer circular disk ring. The inner circular disk ring has multiple separate circular disk ring parts, and an outer diameter of the inner circular disk ring is greater than an outside diameter of the shoulder section provided on the first pipe end.

Abstract: A universal pedestal mounting assembly includes a lower support structure securable on a supporting surface, an adapter coupled with the lower support structure, and a pedestal tube positioned over the adapter. The adapter is sized corresponding to the pedestal tube. An upper support structure is positioned on the pedestal tube and is configured to secure a component supported on the universal pedestal mounting assembly. A rod is secured between the lower support structure and the upper support structure. The assembly enables pedestal tubes of various sizes to be mounted using the same hardware.

Abstract: Master flange assemblies are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a master flange assembly includes a master flange and a tube. The master flange includes a central aperture, at least one through-hole, and a plurality of cavities. The tube is arranged to pass through the central aperture and form the master flange assembly when secured to the master flange. In one embodiment, the plurality of cavities are recessions formed in a first surface of the master flange, wherein the recessions do not pass through the master flange. In one embodiment, the plurality of cavities are separated by ribs. In one embodiment, the master flange includes a shoulder recessed from a second surface of the master flange and adjacent to the central aperture. The tube includes a rim that engages the shoulder of the master flange when the tube is secured to the master flange to form the assembly.

Abstract: A split retaining ring for a connection assembly adapted for connecting an instrument or other device to a vessel, such as a pressure vessel. The connection assembly includes a base, an instrument or device, and a split retaining ring wherein the split retaining ring includes overlapping end portions. The split retaining ring also includes an annular rib adapted for engaging a ferrule of the instrument or device in order to substantially sealing engage the instrument or device to the base.

Abstract: Master flange assemblies are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a master flange assembly includes a master flange and a tube. The master flange includes a central aperture, at least one through-hole, and a plurality of cavities. The tube is arranged to pass through the central aperture and form the master flange assembly when secured to the master flange. In one embodiment, the plurality of cavities are recessions formed in a first surface of the master flange, wherein the recessions do not pass through the master flange. In one embodiment, the plurality of cavities are separated by ribs. In one embodiment, the master flange includes a shoulder recessed from a second surface of the master flange and adjacent to the central aperture. The tube includes a rim that engages the shoulder of the master flange when the tube is secured to the master flange to form the assembly.

Abstract: A receiving apparatus for the partial reception of a flange which is or can be connected to a vacuum pump, and having at least one fastening section for fastening to a recipient, at least one support section on which the flange lies in an assembly state and at least one receiving opening bounded by the support section, wherein the flange can be inserted into the receiving opening and can be pulled out of the receiving opening from an access side of the receiving apparatus with a receiving apparatus fastened to the recipient.

Abstract: An apparatus for connecting double jacketed pipes is provided. The apparatus includes two pipe coupling parts corresponding to one another and a locking element for axially connecting the pipe coupling parts: at least one of the pipe coupling parts being divided in form and having two separate components, namely an inner component which is formed by an inner ring or at least includes the latter and has an external thread, and an outer component which is formed by an outer ring or includes the latter, and has an internal thread corresponding to the external thread of the inner component so that the outer component can be screwed onto the inner component.

Abstract: Systems and methods for connecting misaligned pipe sections, where two sets of variably spaced bearings enable the transfer of evenly distributed pressure from a collar member to a coupling member. One embodiment comprises a misalignment coupling that includes first and second coupling members, a collar, and two sets of bearings. The collar is positioned around the second coupling member and has a flange for coupling to a flange of the first coupling member. The bearings are positioned in an annular space between the second coupling member and the collar. The two sets of bearings have variable spacing and are interleaved, with one set contacting the collar and one set contacting the second coupling member. When the flanges are secured to each other, contact pressure is transferred from the collar through the bearings to the second coupling member, thereby applying contact pressure between the first and second coupling members.

Abstract: A container treatment machine with a tank and spaced-apart valve housings, wherein a pressure-resistant delivery pipe having a curved section is provided between the tank and each valve housing directly or via an intermediate flow regulator, the delivery pipe being composed, at least in its curved section, of a hard plastic which is pressure- and temperature-resistant, and is acid- and alkali-resistant and permissible for foodstuffs, in particular polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE or Teflon).

Abstract: A connecting device for connecting a flexible container to a flange or a connecting ring includes an outer ring, which has an inner surface radially inside and a connection side facing the flange or the connecting ring, and an inner ring, which has an outer surface radially outside and over which an end section of the container can be turned. The outer and inner surfaces are at least partially congruent so that the end section can be clamped between the outer and inner rings. The inner ring can be inserted into the outer ring from the connection side. The outer ring has an accommodating groove radially inside. The accommodating groove extends completely around the outer ring, is open radially inwardly, and has a round cross-section. The inner ring is one-piece and has a round cross-section in an area of the outer surface and is made of a single flexible material.

Abstract: Systems for coupling tubes, pipes, conduits, ducts, and the like. In at least some embodiments, a coupling assembly includes a sleeve, a retaining member having an angled end surface, and a locking member. A tube is positioned through the locking member, the retaining member, and into the sleeve. In a first position, a first portion of the locking member contacts an angled end surface of the retaining member, and a second portion of the locking member is spaced apart from the angled end surface. The locking member is then tilted into a second position wherein the second portion is relatively closer to the angled end surface to securely engage the locking member with the tube, and the locking member is then secured in the tilted (or second) position relative to the sleeve, thereby securing the tube within the sleeve.

Abstract: A wafer-shaped hollow fiber module adapted for in-line use in a piping system. The piping system may include two standard bolted flange connections, and at least one wafer-shaped hollow fiber module sealed between the two standard bolted flange connections. The wafer shaped hollow fiber module includes: a cylindrical housing having an open end and a closed end having a first sealing surface and an inlet port; at least one side port through the cylindrical housing; an end cap united to the open end having a second sealing surface and an outlet port.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pressure vessel (1) for a high pressure press comprising at least a first sub-cylinder (4) and a second sub-cylinder (6), which are axially connected to form a cylinder body (2) for enclosing a high pressure medium, and a sealing arrangement arranged at the inner wall of the cylinder body for sealing the joint (3) between the first and the second sub-cylinder (4, 6) against leakage of the pressure medium. The sealing arrangement is comprising a ring shaped sealing band (18), a first circumferential protruding flange (30), which is arranged on the inner wall of the first sub-cylinder and which axially extends from the joint (3) and away from the second sub-cylinder (6), and a second circumferential protruding flange (32), which is arranged on the inner wall of the second sub cylinder (6) and which axially extends from the joint (3) and away from the first sub-cylinder (4).

Abstract: An exhaust system having a pipe for conveying exhaust from an engine, the end of which has an outwardly-protruding lip; a first pipe flange having a hole large enough to allow the lipped end of the pipe to pass through it, and a recessed shoulder adjacent the hole; a collar, configured to releasably encircle said first pipe, to abut with the recessed shoulder at its outer periphery, and the lipped end of the pipe at its inner periphery, thereby preventing the collar and lipped pipe assembly from passing through said hole; and a second pipe flange configured to attach to said first pipe flange to connect a tail pipe to the first pipe, and to hold the pipe, flange and collar assembly together. The invention also provides counterweights for counterweighted lift trucks adapted to secure such exhaust systems, and methods of fitting such exhaust systems.

Abstract: A sanitary coupling and seal forming system which can be front mounted. Front mounted refers to a seal fitting that can be installed directly behind a coupling. It is intended to be easily manufactured, installed, disposable, and reusable. A two part seal fitting which is formed from two arc-shaped sealing elements each having one of two different inventively designed termini. Each termini are complementary with termini of different types allowing a system which can be opened or act as a hinge. The seal fitting can be axially brought into engagement with a sanitary coupling which bears complementary components. Thus the seal assembly allows for quick connection and disconnection by the sealing assembly.

Abstract: A wafer-shaped hollow fiber module adapted for in-line use in a piping system. The piping system may include two standard bolted flange connections, and at least one wafer-shaped hollow fiber module sealed between the two standard bolted flange connections. The wafer shaped hollow fiber module includes: a cylindrical housing having an open end and a closed end having a first sealing surface and an inlet port; at least one side port through the cylindrical housing; an end cap united to the open end having a second sealing surface and an outlet port.

Abstract: A flange for fastening a line to a pump casing, includes: a pump casing passage; and a plurality of stop members protruding in the passage and angularly distributed around the passage, the position of the flange being angularly adjustable by the stop members. A pump may include the fastening flange. A method for adjusting the position of the flange in relation to the pump is also disclosed. This method makes it possible to avoid the position of the pump casing being imposed by the orientation of the fastening flange of the pump casing.

Abstract: A connector spool for connecting a compressor casing to a drive casing of an industrial compression system includes a spool body having a substantially cylindrical shape. The body has a first end coupled to the compressor casing and a second end coupled to the drive casing, and the body defines an interior region. Access ports are formed in the body for providing access to the interior region, and a hoop-shaped pressurized member covers the access ports.

Abstract: An electrolysis-resistant coupling assembly for connection with a line fitting of a fluid line includes a fitting having a first mating surface and having an aperture extending therethrough, wherein the fitting is configured to be aligned with and face the line fitting for coupling thereto. The assembly also includes a coupler having one end provided with an outer coupler flange, the fitting being loaded onto the coupler such that the outer coupler flange passes through the aperture. The assembly also includes a substantially non-compressible, electrically non-conductive rigid captive ring. The captive ring is positioned against the outer coupler flange and interposed between the fitting and the coupler to provide electrical separation between the fitting and the coupler, wherein the fitting is held against the captive ring when the fitting is interconnected with the line fitting.

Abstract: A wafer-shaped hollow fiber module adapted for in-line use in a piping system. The piping system may include two standard bolted flange connections, and at least one wafer-shaped hollow fiber module sealed between the two standard bolted flange connections. The wafer shaped hollow fiber module includes: a cylindrical housing having an open end and a closed end having a first sealing surface and an inlet port; at least one side port through the cylindrical housing; an end cap united to the open end having a second sealing surface and an outlet port.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus for a fill port for a flexible container such as a flexible self supporting dewatering or marine structure. The container includes a flexible material having at least one opening and a fill port having an inner port body and an outer port body. At least one face of the inner and/or outer port body has a plurality of cellular surfaces with cavities that do not extend through the inner and/or outer port body on which they are positioned. The cavities receive a portion of the flexible material when the inner port body, the flexible material, and the outer port body are secured together and in use, thus minimizing stresses on the flexible material surrounding the fill port by equally distributing the forces acting on this material during the filling stage and thus reducing the risk of tears or failure to the flexible container.

Abstract: A quick connect and disconnect coupler (QCDC) having a coupler plug and a coupler socket. The coupler plug has an input that is connected to a fluid source and an output. The coupler socket has an input that is connected to the coupler plug's output, and an output that is connected to a hose from where the fluid is applied to a fire. The coupler socket features a front and rear gripping flange that together allow a person to safely, quickly, and easily attach the coupler socket to the coupler plug. The QCDC also features a safety lock that is normally in a locked position, which prevents the socket from being attached or detached to and from the plug. The safety lock is released from its locked position only after a determination has been made that it is safe to attach or detach the coupler socket from the coupler plug.

Abstract: A flange hose fitting assembly and method wherein a captive flange is attached to a flexible hose nipple after the nipple has been crimped to the flexible hose. The flange, which may be selected from different types of flanges, is slipped over the front end of the nipple that is crimped at its back end to the flexible hose, and then locked to the nipple by a suitable retaining device, such as a retaining ring, spring, screw-on or glue-on ring, press-fit ring, piston-ring, shaft seal, U-shaped halves or other split configurations arranged around a locking groove in the nipple, etc.

Abstract: Assembly for connecting a pipe having a flanged end in fluid communication with an opposing part. The assembly includes an insert received coaxially within the pipe end and having a forward end face extending axially beyond the pipe end, a clamp ring received coaxially over the pipe end, and a flange piece which is fastenable to the opposing as received coaxially over the clamp ring. As the flange piece is fastened to the opposing part, the forward end face of the insert is urged into a sealable engagement against a confronting surface of the opposing part.

Abstract: An universal fluid coupling assembly is provided that includes a coupler housing that has an inner bore extending along an axis of, and opening onto a mating end of, the coupler housing. The coupler housing has an outer perimeter that includes an outer coupler flange that extends about the outer perimeter and that is located proximate to the mating end. The outer coupler flange has a periphery that follows a predetermined circumferential envelope and that has at least one discontinuity therein to define a blank area in the envelope. The assembly further includes a fitting member with an aperture there through. The aperture has an inner diameter that is smaller than the circumferential envelope of the outer coupler flange. The fitting member is loaded over the outer coupler flange onto the outer perimeter of the coupler housing by orienting the fitting member in a non-orthogonal relation with the coupler housing such that the outer coupler flange passes through the aperture.

Abstract: A universal attachment flange to connect equipment utilized to perform a task to various connection arrangements. A universal attachment flange is provided with a plurality of hole patterns to permit a bolted attachment of the flange to other devices that present varying patterns of bolt receiving holes. The universal attachment flange is capable of connection to a variety of four (4) hole patterns and at least one three (3) hole pattern. In one form the universal attachment flange includes a through hole threaded to receive a connection fitting.

Abstract: A tube joint for connecting two pipes comprises two enlarged openings formed at two pipes to be connected; a sealing pad between the two enlarged openings; each of two ends of the sealing pad are formed with a reduced stepped portion; a shape of the stepped portion being matched to the enlarged openings so as to be received in the enlarged opening; thereby the stepped portion can seal the enlarged opening; a middle section of the sealing pad being between the two reduced stepped portion and being protruded between the two enlarged openings; and two covering plates. Each covering plate encloses around a periphery of the enlarged opening and a periphery of the middle section of the sealing pad. Two first annular lips are installed around an outer periphery of the stepped portions of the sealing pad, and each sealing pad may be formed with a second annular lip.

Abstract: A fitting for fixedly attaching to pipes and the like includes an inner and outer ring being coaxially provided over a pipe. The inner and outer rings are preferably connected by means of a ratchet mechanism allowing for one way advancement there-between. Advancement of the outer ring over the inner ring radially compresses the latter thereby resulting in swaging of the pipe. The radial compression of the pipe results in the fitting being locked in place and prevents axial movement between the fitting and the pipe. Various apparatus are provided for advancing the outer ring over the inner ring. Coupling assemblies are provided utilizing the fittings for forming joints between abutting pipes.

Abstract: A pipe coupling for connecting a pipe to a flange associated with another pipe in a sealed manner. The pipe (10) is formed with circumferential groove (10a). The coupling comprises a gasket (20), a mounting ring (18), and a mounting flange (22). The ring (18) is elastically expandable, e.g. by being split, and formed with projecting rib (18a) adapted to fit into the groove (10a) and hold the ring affixed to the pipe (10). The mounting flange (22) is tightened against both the ring (18) and a counter-flange (12), through matching cone-shaped surfaces (18c, 22a).

Abstract: A flange connection for pipes, especially for sanitary installations. The flange connection comprises a connecting piece which can be joined at each end to a pipe to produce a sealed connection. The flange connection further comprises a flange which is arranged radially outside on the connecting piece and which is fixable to a further component to make an indirect connection between the connecting piece and the further component. The flange has an opening through which the connecting piece is guided and the flange is fixed on the connecting piece by a retaining element.

Abstract: A device is illustrated and described for connecting two ends of high-pressure pipelines for use in longwalls of underground mining, having a removable pipe coupling for tension-proof and tight connection of the two pipe ends whose constructions are tailored to one another. In order to counteract the catching as the pipeline is displaced in the longitudinal direction, so that damage or even destruction of the pipeline or pipe connections may be reliably prevented, each pipe end is reinforced using an essentially conical ring, whose outer surface expands from the external diameter of the pipe up to the external diameter of the pipe coupling.

Abstract: A bolt-ring pipe connector system for connecting stub end pipe particularly thermoplastic pipe is shown. The bolt-ring has an outer vertical rim portion, an inner vertical rim portion and an interconnecting web portion provided with spaced bolt holes. The top side of the bolt-ring has a beveled and angular top surface. The bottom side of the bolt-ring has a contoured recess that provides a variable cross sectional diameter. The new, deformable, variable geometry, hollowed, bolt-ring can be flexed by slight deformations under constant bolt-load. As a result, all anticipated initial and operating changes in high-density polyethylene stub-end dimensions, such as those caused by bolt-up and thermal strain, are managed by the bolt-ring.

Abstract: A clamping system for high or ultra-high vacuum system components including a clamping member surrounding a flange of the vacuum system component. A bead along the inside diameter of the clamping member engages a groove in the peripheral surface of the flange. When a clamping force is applied to the clamping member, as by a bolt, the force is transmitted to the flange providing sufficient clamping force to form a vacuum seal.

Abstract: A fluid distribution system comprising a hollow pipe section having at least one bore extending longitudinally therethrough. At least one longitudinal boss extends along the pipe section. An end fitting comprises a body configured to be received in the bore and a shoulder extending radially from the body. At least one bolt hole extends through the shoulder and is configured to align with the at least one longitudinal boss. A secondary component is configured for connection to the end fitting. Alternatively, an outlet plate fitting is configured for attaching a secondary component to a fluid pipe section. The fluid pipe section includes opposed flanges that define a receiving groove. The outlet plate fitting comprises a main body and an engagement platform having a planar surface with a seal member. Rotation of the engagement platform within the receiving groove causes the planar surface and seal member into sealing engagement within the receiving groove.

Abstract: A hose fitment for the connection of disposable food containers to dispensing lines of food dispenser. This hose fitment is adapted to securely establish fluid connection between a hose and a food or beverage dispensing line. This fitment includes a body member having a first engaging surface for internally engaging a hose end and a sleeve member that includes a second engaging surface that externally engages around the hose end to press on the hose end against the first engaging surface in a manner effective to create a tight seal between the fitment and the hose end.

Abstract: The connection device (101, 201) according to the invention has a locking head (109, 209) that can be locked to an opening (8) of a container wall (3). A clamping device (123, 223) is also provided on the corresponding coupling piece (5), which serves to tighten the head (109, 209) locked to the container wall (3) without a rotational movement against the container wall (3). The clamping device (123, 223) can be designed as a wedge-clamping device (142, 242). The latter permits generation of large clamping forces with small operating forces. The clamping device (142, 242) is preferably secured by a locking device (253), so that vibration-proof connection resistant to temperature changes is achieved during simple assembly.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved diaphragm control valve with a simplified construction that has significant advantages over prior art diaphragm control valves. Further, the present invention provides substantially straight-through fluid flow which enables a high flow capacity with minimal pressure loss. The non-planar diaphragm of the present invention, when standing in a non-stressed state, is substantially an annulus that assumes a shape with a cross section that extends from a first attachment bead substantially radially in a first direction through a first curve continues substantially non-radially in a second direction through a second curve and continues in a substantially radial direction terminating in a second attachment bead, such that the diaphragm does not fold back on itself. That is to say, the diaphragm is both axially non-overlapping and rotationally symmetrical.

Abstract: An elongate member (10) is provided having a first elongate portion (12), a second elongate portion (14) and an interconnecting joint (16). The interconnecting joint (16) is disposed at an acute angle to the first elongate portion (12) and rotation of the second elongate portion (14) about the interconnecting joint (16) allows a user access to an article (11) located at the upper end of the second elongate portion (14).

Abstract: A method of attaching a self-aligning flange to a vacuum pipe includes a flange member, a collar member and a stop member. An inner perimeter of the collar member is sized to receive an outer perimeter of a pipe. The flange member extends outward from an outer perimeter of the collar member. The stop member extends inward from the inner perimeter of the collar member. A method of forming a large diameter extruded pipe includes a continuous cross section of at least six inches in diameter. It is preferable to weld a flange to one end of the large diameter extruded pipe. Immediately after the large diameter extruded pipe has been formed in an extrusion press, it is sprayed with a coolant to increase the surface hardness thereof.