TURBINE ENGINE COUPLINGS AND METHODS FOR MANUFACTURING TURBINE ENGINE COUPLINGS

摘要

A coupling apparatus for use in sealingly connecting a first fluid flow path to a second fluid flow path. The coupling apparatus includes a rigid fluid flow channel having a first end and a second end, wherein the fluid flow channel is substantially rigid in an axial direction and a radial direction, a first sealing terminus that is rigidly connected to the first end and that is configured for sealing with the first fluid flow path, and a second sealing terminus that is slidingly disposed about the second end such that the second sealing terminus is configured for relative movement with respect to the second end, and wherein the second sealing terminus is further configured for sealing with the second fluid flow path. The coupling apparatus further includes a flexible coupler connected to both the first sealing terminus and the second sealing terminus and surrounding the fluid flow channel, wherein the coupler is relatively more flexible in the axial direction and the radial direction as compared to the fluid flow channel.