Metal-to-metal seal in high pressure applications with low contact stress

Abstract

A method of forming a metal-to-metal seal in high pressure applications with low contact stress. Firstly, providing a first elongate pressure containment member having a surface of revolution. Secondly, providing a second elongate pressure containment member having an exterior surface, an interior surface, a remote end, and a thin walled extension sleeve having a first end and a second end. The first end of the thin walled extension sleeve is conjoined with the second elongate pressure member at the remote end. The second elongate pressure containment member is of a greater thickness than the sleeve. Thirdly, coupling the first elongate pressure containment member and the second elongate pressure containment member with the sleeve positioned in close relation to the surface of revolution. Fourthly, placing the first elongate pressure containment member and the second elongate pressure containment member in an environment in which fluid pressure tends to cause a flow of fluids from the second end to the first end of the sleeve along an interfacial region between the sleeve and the surface of revolution. Fluid pressure tends to constrict and set up a pressure gradient which promotes sealing along the interfacial region.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.