Structurally supported elastomer sealing element
AssigneeDraft Systems, Inc.
InventorsMerton R. Fallon, John Froehler
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A sealing element which is particularly adapted for use in preventing fluid flow between threadably interconnected components. The sealing element comprises a rigid portion formed of metal or the like and an elastomeric material portion. These portions are assembled together in a geometric configuration that protects the elastomer from shear forces and at the same time permits close control over the compression forces which can be exerted on the elastomeric portion of the sealing element. In this way, both overcompression and shear damage to the elastomer are effectively prevented.
Claims7
A sealing means for forming a fluid seal between first and second cooperating members, said first member having a first sealing surface and said second member having a second sealing surface, said fluid seal being accomplished as a result of a force being exerted on said sealing means by a third member to cause said sealing means to move into sealing engagement with said first and second sealing surfaces to effect a fluid seal therebetween, said sealing means comprising:
- (a) a rigid portion having a first surface engageable by the third member and a second surface engageable with one of the first and second sealing surfaces of the first and second members;
- and
- (b) an elastomeric portion operably associated with said rigid portion, said elastomeric portion being engageable by said third member to exert a force thereon whereby said elastomeric portion is caused to move into sealing engagement with the first and second sealing surfaces of the first and second members.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.