PIPE COUPLING

摘要

IMPROVED PIPE COUPLING A pipe coupling for the joining of plain end pipe that includes an annular gasket and a compressible lock ring at each end of the coupling between a tubular middle ring and an annular follower. Bolts extending between the opposite followers are effective when tightened to compress both the gasket and lock ring into their operative relation for sealing and gripping coupled pipe end, respectively. The follower is comprised of unitary structure integrally cast to define an internal annular protuberance that juxtaposedly confronts the radially rearward surface of the gasket Also defined by the follower inward of the protuberance is a central opening at least partially tapered frusto-conically and in which the lock ring is initially supported controllably spaced from the gasket. Tightening the bolts enables gasket sealing pressure to be achieved about the pipe end sequentially before a completed restraining grip on the pipe end is attained by the lock ring K3/B5466-AP