Flexible annular joint

In an assembly of first and second generally round members each having a wall terminating with an opening provided with an annular bead wherein the two beads define superimposable surfaces forming a joining plane, a flexible annular joint sealably joining the first and second members together, said joint having a constant cross-section along its entire length and including:

• a median part in the form of a circular crown adapted to be intercalated between the respective beads of the two members;
• a flange at the inner periphery of the median part, said flange being adapted to bear against the inner surface of the wall of the first member;
• and first and second lips at the outer periphery of the median part, the first lip being rounded to closely fit around the bead of said first member, and the second lip being of lesser thickness than the first and including a rounded portion adapted to fit around a part of the bead of said second member and a terminal skirt portion adapted to resiliently bear against the outer surface of the wall of said second member in the proximity of its bead, a second flange at the inner periphery of the median part adapted to bear against the inner surface of the wall of said second member, said second lip being sufficiently thin and flexible to permit removal of said second member, by outwardly folding the second lip, while the joint remains fitted on said first member, said second lip bearing conically against said second member, so that the joint is vacuum tight.