Flexible Union That Will Withstand Pressure
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ATYPE of pipe union which removes the bugbear ot fracture, as the result of vibration, has been introduced by Clayflex, Ltd., Tiddington Road, Stratford-on-Avon. The idea is clearly shown in the accompanying illustrations, ; from which it will be seen that a synthetic-rubber gasket is employed in conjunction with a nipple and union nut specially machined to receive it. Perhaps the chief point of interest lies in the fact that the gasket, on being compressed as the union nut is tightened, pushes inwardly on to the pipe to form what amounts to a spherical joint.
As normally used, such a joint will withstand a pressure exceeding 1,500 lb. per sq. in., but really high-pressure types, designed to withstand up to 6,000 lb. per sq. in. are also available.
It will be appreciated from the drawings that, although the respective pipes are positively located, there is no metalto-metal contact between them ; the whole responsibility fore preserving the joint in respect of leaking and pulling out is taken by the highly compressed flexible gasket.
It may be mentioned that gaskets are available to resist the effects of all types of liquid, oils and acids, including hot paraffin and steam.