Pipe coupling retainer with axial support members

摘要

A retainer for use in a mechanical pipe coupling is disclosed. The retainer fits within an expanded region of the coupling adjacent to a washer which is adjacent to an incompressible seal. The retainer has a band with opposite edges. Angularly oriented retaining teeth extend inwardly from one edge and engage a pipe inserted into the coupling. Axial support members, arranged in spaced angular intervals circumferentially around the band, extend from the same edge and project toward the opposite edge. The support members are substantially parallel to the band and have ends that engage the washer and exert an axial force to prevent it from telescoping into the band when the seal is under pressure and tries to expand and displace the washer.