| 摘要 |
2081566 9118232 PCTABS00008 An internal expansion coupling member (12) for use in joining a pair of aligned tubular members (10) in end-to-end relationship. The coupling member (12) comprises an internal expansion coupling device consisting of a relatively rigid sheet-like member, where the sheet ends (14, 14') overlap such that the end portions lie essentially contiguous with each other. Preferably a compressive seal member (20) is provided between the end portions. Cooperative means (30) are provided between the inside wall of the tubular member and the outer surface of the sheet-like member to fixedly position and retain an O-ring type member (13) therebetween to effect a sealing relationship. Finally, means (60) for expanding the sheet-like member is provided to effect a pressure seal. In a preferred embodiment, a thrust restraint member (96), to prevent separation of the coupling member from a tubular member under conditions of high internal pressure, may be incorporated into the system of this invention.
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