Pipe coupling with improved seal means

摘要

A pipeline coupling adapted for mounting over a pipe to which connection is to be made. It includes an annular seal ring of elastomeric material supported by the coupling and adapted for deformation to a confined sealing position between the coupling and the pipe. Means such as a plurality of circumferentially spaced about and hydraulically actuatable pistons are arranged for applying a compressive force to the seal ring to thereby deform the seal ring to the confined sealing position. Means are provided which are operably associated with the seal ring for automatically accommodating increases and decreases in the volume of the confined seal ring to thereby reduce variations in the confined pressure of the seal ring caused by variations in temperature. One form of such automatic means includes springs arranged to apply substantially uniform counter forces to the aforesaid pistons.