Annular seal compatible with multiple port types

Abstract

An orientation-independent annular seal includes an annular body defining an axial bore therethrough for passage of fluid in an axial direction and having a radial plane perpendicular to the axial direction. Two axial sides of the annular seal include a deformable annular protrusion extending from the annular body in the axial direction to a first apex configured to deform upon engagement with a first planar sealing surface and a first seal ring engagement surface configured to engage a first annular radiused seal ring. So configured, the annular seal can seal two different types of flow components regardless of its orientation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to seals and gaskets for forming a fluid-impermeable sealing joint between opposite flow component ports. Background Technology

[0002] Annular seals are typically annular, defining an axially aligned orifice for the passage of fluid (liquid or gas), two axially opposed end faces, a radially inner surface, and a radially outer surface. Overly simple annular seals have flat end faces and smooth, circular radially inner and outer surfaces that define the annular seal's inner diameter (ID) and outer diameter (OD). However, in industry, it is common practice to utilize seals with different radial cross-sections to achieve varying sealing capabilities for different fluid flow environments. Annular seals are typically formed from metals such as nickel, stainless steel, and nickel alloys such as C22.

[0003] Annular seals are designed to engage with specific port types. The opposing end faces of an annular seal are each configured to engage the port of a flow component to form a fluid-impermeable seal between the end face and the flow component. A commonly used annular seal is the "C-type seal," which has a "C"-shaped radial cross-section. The end face of the C-type seal engages with and is pressed against the planar surface of the port of the flow component to form a fluid-impermeable seal between them. Other C-type seals include ridges or extensions projecting axially from the end face to aid in forming a fluid-impermeable seal with the port of the flow component.

[0004] Another type of annular seal known in the industry is the "W" seal. A typical "W" seal has opposing sealing surfaces. The W seal is positioned between two connecting members, each having an annular protrusion extending from it. The flat sealing surfaces engage these annular protrusions to form a fluid-impermeable seal between the W seal and the connecting members.

[0005] The problem with existing annular seals is that they are designed for use only with specific port types. For example, a C-type seal can only be used with a C-type port on a flow component, and a W-type seal can only be used with a W-type port. A problem arises, for instance, when the flow component port on one side of the annular seal is C-type and the flow component port on the other side is W-type. Some have attempted to solve this problem by manufacturing an annular seal with one end face designed to meet a C-type port and an opposite end designed to meet a W-type port. A disadvantage of this annular seal is that its orientation must be carefully considered when positioning it between flow components of different port types. Positioning the annular seal in an inverted orientation can cause damage to the flow component or its port. Another disadvantage is that the annular seal cannot be used between flow components with the same port type, thus requiring users to have a variety of annular seals on hand based on the port types of the flow components being joined together. Summary of the Invention Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1A This is a top perspective view of the annular seal according to the first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 1B yes Figure 1A Top plan view of the annular seal.

[0009] Figure 1C It is along Figure 1B The line 1C-1C cut Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal.

[0010] Figure 1D It is along Figure 1C The line 1D-1D intercepted Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal.

[0011] Figure 1E Is it like this? Figure 1C shown Figure 1A A close-up view of the end portion of the annular seal.

[0012] Figure 2A It is positioned between the C-type fluid flow component and the W-type fluid flow component before compression. Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal.

[0013] Figure 2B The settings are after compression. Figure 2A Between fluid flow components Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal.

[0014] Figure 3 The settings are before compression. Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal according to the second embodiment between the flow components.

[0015] Figure 4 The settings are before compression. Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal according to the third embodiment between the flow components.

[0016] Figure 5 The settings are before compression. Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal according to the fourth embodiment between the flow components.

[0017] Figure 6A The settings are before compression. Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal according to the fifth embodiment between the flow components.

[0018] Figure 6B yes Figure 6A A close-up view of the end portion of the annular seal.

[0019] Figure 7 The settings are before compression. Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the end portion of the annular seal according to the sixth embodiment between the flow components.

[0020] Figure 8 The settings are before compression. Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the end portion of the annular seal according to the seventh embodiment between the flow components.

[0021] Figure 9 The settings are before compression. Figure 2A A cross-sectional view of the end portion of the annular seal according to the eighth embodiment between the flow components.

[0022] Figure 10A This is a cross-sectional view of the annular seal according to the ninth embodiment, positioned between two C-type fluid flow components before compression.

[0023] Figure 10B The settings are after compression. Figure 10A Between fluid flow components Figure 10A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal.

[0024] Figure 11A It is positioned between two W-shaped fluid flow components before compression. Figure 10A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal.

[0025] Figure 11BThe settings are after compression. Figure 11A Between fluid flow components Figure 10A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal.

[0026] Figure 12 The settings are after compression. Figure 10A Between fluid flow components Figure 1A A cross-sectional view of the annular seal.

[0027] Those skilled in the art will understand that the elements in the accompanying drawings are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the size and / or relative positioning of some elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to aid in understanding the various embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, common but well-known elements that are useful or necessary in commercially viable embodiments are not depicted to facilitate viewing these different embodiments with minimal obstruction. It should be further understood that certain actions and / or steps may be described or depicted in a particular order of occurrence, and those skilled in the art will understand that such specificity regarding the order is not actually necessary. It should also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary technical meaning consistent with those of those skilled in the art described above, unless otherwise set forth with a different specific meaning herein. Detailed Implementation

[0028] This document discloses annular seals that can be positioned between opposing flow component sealing ports to form a fluid-impermeable seal between the opposing sealing ports. The annular seal creates a fluid-impermeable passage from a first flow component to a second flow component. The annular seals disclosed herein include sealing surfaces that can be used in conjunction with at least two different sealing port types, such as C-type seals and W-type seals. The embodiments shown and discussed below are symmetrical because the two sealing surfaces of the annular seal can be used in conjunction with multiple sealing port types. For example, the sealing surfaces of the annular seal can be used to seal either C-type or W-type sealing ports. Therefore, a single annular seal can be used to seal two C-type ports, two W-type ports, or the interface between a C-type port and a W-type port. Thus, the user can use the annular seal regardless of whether the upper or lower sealing port is C-type or W-type, because both sides of the annular seal are compatible with either port type.

[0029] refer to Figures 1A to 1EAn exemplary annular seal 100 based on these teachings is shown. The annular seal 100 can be used to seal a sealing port of a relative flow component that defines a fluid flow path. The annular seal 100 includes an annular seal body 105 that defines an axial bore 110 through which fluid passes in the axial direction indicated by arrow 115.

[0030] The annular seal 100 includes opposing sealing surfaces 120 and 120' on the axial ends 125 and 125' of the annular seal body 105. The sealing surfaces 120 and 120' engage with the sealing ports of the flow elements to create a fluid-impermeable seal between the sealing ports of the flow elements and the sealing surfaces 120 and 120'. Therefore, when both sealing surfaces 120 and 120' engage with the sealing ports of the flow elements to form a fluid-impermeable seal, fluid flows from one flow element through the axial bore 110 and into the other flow element without leakage between the flow elements.

[0031] The sealing surface 120 includes an annular extension or annular protrusion 130 that extends axially from the annular seal body 105 to a apex 135. The annular extension 130 is used to engage a generally planar sealing surface of the C-port of the flow element to form a fluid-impermeable seal (e.g., a C-type seal) between the sealing surface 120 and the sealing port of the flow element. The annular extension 130 is deformable such that it deforms against another surface, such as the sealing surface of the C-type flow element, when engaged. The annular extension 130 includes an inner extending surface 140 and an outer extending surface 145 that extend rearward from the apex 135 toward the annular seal body 105 in opposite directions and at an angle.

[0032] An inner extending surface 140 extends from a vertex 135 at a non-zero angle relative to a radial plane 150, which extends through the axial midpoint of the annular body and is perpendicular to the axial direction 115. The inner extending surface 140 extends inward from the vertex 135 toward a second axial end 125′ to a radial surface 155 parallel to the radial plane 150. The inner extending surface 140 is a truncated conical surface extending circumferentially around the annular seal 100. As an exemplary range, the inner extending surface 140 may extend at an angle of approximately 10 degrees to 35 degrees relative to the radial plane 150. As a specific example, the inner extending surface 140 extends from the vertex 135 at an angle of approximately 18 degrees relative to the radial plane 150. The radial surface 155 extends from the inner extending surface 140 to the inner surface 160 defining the axial bore 110.

[0033] The outer extending surface 145 extends radially outward from the vertex 135 to the outer surface 165 of the outer diameter forming the annular seal 100. Compared to the inner extending surface 140, the outer extending surface 145 extends from the vertex 135 at a steeper angle relative to the radial plane 150. The outer extending surface 145 is a truncated conical surface that is circumferentially curved around the annular seal 100. As an exemplary range, the outer extending surface 145 may extend at an angle of about 30 degrees to 70 degrees relative to the radial plane. In a specific example, the outer extending surface 145 extends from the vertex 135 at an angle of about 51 degrees relative to the radial plane 150.

[0034] When the annular extension 130 presses against the flat sealing surface (e.g., as Figures 2A to 2B As shown, the annular extension 130 deforms, causing the inner extension surface 140 to engage with the sealing surface. The inner extension surface 140 deforms to engage with the sealing surface rather than the outer extension surface 145 because the inner extension surface has a gentler angle relative to the radial plane 150 compared to the outer extension surface 140. When the first sealing surface 120 presses against the sealing surface, the deformation of the annular extension 130 increases the surface area of ​​the engaging sealing surface of the annular seal 100, which contributes to a better seal. Furthermore, the deformation of the sealing annular extension 130 reduces the impact of any scratches or dents in the apex 135 on the seal quality between the annular seal 100 and the sealing surface. This is advantageous because the apex 135 of the annular extension 130 is prone to minor scratches or dents during transport and handling, but the first extension surface 140 is shielded by the apex 135 and does not come into contact with other objects, thus reducing the amount of scratches or dents present on the first extension surface.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, vertex 135 is positioned closer to the outer surface 165 of the annular seal than the inner surface 160. As an example, vertex 135 may be positioned at 50% to 70% of the distance from the inner surface 160 to the outer surface 165. Furthermore, the exemplary annular seal 100 has an outer diameter of 0.282 inches, an inner diameter of 0.180 inches, and vertex 135 has a diameter of 0.256 inches.

[0036] The inner extending surface 140 of the sealing surface 120 is positioned as an annular rounded surface that engages the sealing ring of the W-type sealing port. In this first embodiment, the surface engaging the sealing ring, i.e., the inner extending surface 140, is located radially inside the apex 135. As shown, the inner extending surface 140 is a frustoconical surface that extends away from the second axial end 120′ while extending radially outward to the apex 135. In other forms, additional surfaces of the sealing surface 120 may be configured to engage the sealing ring, such as radial surface 155. The inner extending surface 140 forms the surface where the sealing ring of the W-type sealing port of the flow element can engage to form a fluid-impermeable seal (e.g., a W-type seal) with the annular seal 100, as discussed in further detail below. The inner extending surface 140 includes a radial length sufficient to receive and engage the sealing ring of the W-type sealing port without engaging the apex. Therefore, at least a portion of the inner extension surface 140 has the same diameter as the sealing ring of the W-type sealing port, for example, 0.186 inches to 0.246 inches. The inner extension surface 140 extends at a small angle (e.g., 10 degrees to 35 degrees) relative to the radial plane 150 to provide a surface against which the sealing ring of the W-type sealing port can be pressed to form a W-type seal.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the sealing surface 120' on the second axial end 125' is a mirror image of the sealing surface 120 reflected on the radial plane 150, and serves the same function as the sealing surface 120. Figure 1C As shown, the sealing ring 100 is symmetrical about the radial plane 150. Features of the sealing surface 120′ corresponding to the features described with respect to the sealing surface 120 are indicated by superscript symbols (′). For example, feature 145 of the sealing surface 120 corresponding to the features of the sealing surface 120′ is indicated by 145′. Although Figure 1A The annular seal shown in Figure E illustrates an annular seal 100 with two multi-port type compatible sealing surfaces 120, but in other embodiments, the annular seal 100 may have only one such sealing surface, while the other surface has a different form, for example, being constructed only to seal a single sealing port type.

[0038] The annular seal 100 may further include a plurality of bores 175 extending radially inward from the outer surface 165. The plurality of bores 175 can be constructed in any number. For example, preferably, the bores 175 are constructed by radially drilling from the radially outer surface of the annular seal toward the center of the annular seal to minimize cost and reduce any difficulties in manufacturing. The bores 175 constructed in this way have a circular cross-section. For simplicity, the bores 175 are shown as having a circular cross-section, but without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention, the bores may have other cross-sectional shapes. The number of bores 175 and their diameters may vary depending on the desired mechanical properties of the sealing assembly. For example, an increase in the number of bores 175 or an increase in the diameter of the bores 175 results in a corresponding decrease in the thickness of the inner sidewall of the annular seal, which will alter the mechanical properties of the seal, including increasing the seal's deformability. However, increasing the number of bores or the diameter of bore 175 may weaken the elastic recovery (springback) of seal 100 after compression and decompression. In a preferred embodiment, bore 175 is cylindrical and has a diameter between 25% and 75% of the thickness of the annular seal. A diameter less than about 25% will significantly reduce the elastic deformation capacity of the annular seal. Meanwhile, increasing the bore diameter to more than about 75% of the thickness of the annular seal 100 will weaken the structural integrity of seal 100, resulting in seal 100 being compressed without substantial deformation of sealing surfaces 120, 120' that could lead to leakage. In a preferred method, bore 175 has a diameter of about 50% of the thickness of the annular seal 100. Alternatively, the annular seal 100 may include a groove extending radially inward from the outer surface 165 to provide the aforementioned deformability aspect.

[0039] Now for reference Figures 2A to 2B An annular seal 100 is shown positioned between a C-type flow element 180 and a W-type flow element 190. The C-type flow element 180 includes a C-type port interface with a planar sealing surface 185. The W-type flow element 190 includes a W-type port interface with a sealing ring 195.

[0040] like Figure 2A As shown, the annular seal 100 is positioned between the flow components 180 and 190, wherein the annular seal 100 is in an uncompressed state. A force can then be applied to bring the flow components 180 and 190 together, thereby sealing the flow components 180 and 190 together. This allows the annular seal 100 to enter... Figure 2BThe compression state is shown. As shown, the first sealing surface 120 engages the C-shaped flow member 180, and the second sealing surface 120' engages the W-shaped flow member 190. When the planar surface 185 of the C-shaped flow member 180 engages the first sealing surface 120, the annular extension 130 deforms against the planar surface 185, thereby forming a fluid-impermeable seal between them. When the sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow member 190 engages the inner extension surface 140' of the second sealing surface 120', the inner extension surface 140' deforms to receive the sealing ring 195 and form a fluid-impermeable seal between them. After the annular seal 100 is compressed, the flow members 180 and 190 are fluid-sealed, allowing fluid to pass between the flow members 180 and 190 via the annular seal 100 without leakage.

[0041] Therefore, the identical sealing surfaces 120 and 120' of the annular seal 100 can each be used to form an impermeable seal with a C-type flow member or a W-type flow member. Because the sealing surfaces 120 and 120' are identical, and the annular seal 100 is symmetrical about the radial plane 150, the annular seal 100 can be used to seal C-type flow members, W-type flow members, or combinations of flow members together, regardless of the orientation of the annular seal 100. For example, as Figure 12 As shown, the annular seal 100 can be used similarly in cases where the upper flow member is a W-type flow member 190 and the lower flow member is a C-type flow member 180, where both the upper and lower flow members are C-type flow members 180, or where both the upper and lower flow members are W-type flow members 190. Therefore, the sealing ring 100 is orientation-independent. When the annular seal 100 is used to connect two C-type flow members 180 or two W-type flow members 190, the depth of the port design can be adjusted (e.g., increased) to accommodate the thickness of the annular seal 100, so that the annular seal 100 is properly compressed to form a fluid-impermeable seal without being over- or under-compressed. Similarly, the axial length of the seal can be adjusted during manufacturing to accommodate the depth characteristics of the C-type or W-type ports in which the seal can be used.

[0042] The remaining Figure 3 Figure 10 illustrates various alternative forms of annular seals, each of which is related in many ways to the... Figures 1A to 2BThe annular seal 100 shown and discussed is similar. For the sake of brevity, the following discussion will primarily highlight the differences between each design and the first example of the annular seal 100, and the other designs discussed herein. For simplicity, the reference numerals used with respect to the first example will be used to indicate features of the annular seal in subsequent embodiments, wherein the prefixes of the reference numerals are changed to correspond to the embodiments discussed. For example, features of the annular seal 200 of the second design corresponding to features of the annular seal 100 are shown when the prefix of the reference numerals changes from “1” to “2”. For example, features shown as “105” with respect to the annular seal 100 will be shown as “205” with respect to the annular seal 200. Features of the annular seal 300 of the third embodiment corresponding to features of the annular seal 100 are shown when the prefix of the reference numerals changes from “1” to “3”, etc. Furthermore, for simplicity, the following discussion will primarily refer to the features of the first sealing surface; however, it should be understood that the description similarly relates to the features of the same axially opposite second sealing surfaces.

[0043] In all embodiments, the annular extension is deformable and deforms upon forced engagement with the planar sealing surface of the C-type flow member to form a fluid-impermeable seal. Similarly, in all embodiments, one or more surfaces are positioned and sized to receive the sealing ring of the W-type flow member to form a fluid-impermeable seal.

[0044] about Figure 3 The diagram shows a cross-section of the annular seal 200 according to a second embodiment. In the second embodiment, the inner extending surface 240 extends directly from the apex 235 to the inner surface 260 at a constant angle, without transitioning to a radial surface parallel to the radial plane 250. The inner extending surface 240 is a frustoconical surface that extends away from the second axial end 225′ as the inner extending surface 240 extends radially outward to the apex 235. The apex 235 is positioned similarly to the apex 135 of the first embodiment, that is, positioned at approximately 75% of the total distance between the inner surface 260 and the outer surface 265 from the inner surface 260, such that the inner extending surface 240 can adequately engage the W-shaped flow member. Compared to the first embodiment, the inner extending surface 240 extends at a smaller angle relative to the radial plane 250. For example, the inner extending surface extends at an angle of 5 degrees relative to the radial plane 250. The inner extending surface 240 is also designed to engage the sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow member 190. Compared to the inner extension surface of the first embodiment, the inner extension surface 240 of the second embodiment has a longer radial length, which provides a larger engagement surface area when the sealing ring seals with the W-shaped flow component.

[0045] about Figure 4The image shows a cross-section of an annular seal 300 according to a third embodiment. In the annular seal 300 of the third embodiment, the inner extending surface 340 and... Figure 3 The second embodiment of the inner extending surface is similar in that the inner extending surface 340 extends radially inward from the apex 335 directly into the inner surface 260 and is designed to engage the sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow member 190. The apex 335, similar to the previous embodiment, is positioned at approximately 75% of the total distance between the inner surface 260 and the outer surface 265 from the inner surface 260, such that the inner extending surface 340 can adequately engage the W-shaped flow member. The annular seal 300 and... Figure 3 The difference in the annular seal 200 is that, compared to the second embodiment, the inner extending surface 340 is inclined at a greater angle relative to the radial plane 350. As shown, the inner extending surface 340 forms an angle of 30 degrees with the radial plane 350.

[0046] about Figure 5 The image shows a cross-section of an annular seal 400 according to a fourth embodiment. The annular seal 400 of the fourth embodiment is similar to the annular seal 100 of the first embodiment in that the annular seal 400 includes a radial surface 455 extending substantially parallel to the radial plane 450. However, the radial surface 455 of the annular seal 400 is significantly longer than the radial surface 155 of the first embodiment. Figure 5 As shown, in this fourth embodiment, the radial surface 455 is designed to engage the sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow member 190. The radial surface 455 thus extends a certain length in the radial direction such that it is positioned and sized to receive and engage the annular sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow member 190. Therefore, as shown with respect to the second sealing surface 420′, when used with the W-shaped flow member of this embodiment, a fluid-impermeable seal is formed between the radial surface 455′ and the annular sealing ring 195.

[0047] Regarding the annular extension 430, the inner extending surface 440 and the outer extending surface 445 extend from the apex 435 in opposite radial directions, but at approximately the same angle (i.e., 45 degrees) relative to the radial plane 450. The apex 435 of the annular extension 435 is positioned at approximately 75% of the total distance from the inner surface 460 to the outer surface 465, such that the radial surface 455 can adequately engage the W-shaped flow member.

[0048] about Figures 6A to 6BThe image shows a cross-section of the annular seal 500 according to the fifth embodiment. Similar to the annular seal 400 of the fourth embodiment, the radial surface 555 has a larger radial length compared to the first embodiment, such that the radial surface 555 is positioned and sized to receive and engage the annular sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow member 190 to form a W-shaped seal (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 6A (Second sealing surface 520′ in the middle). The annular seal 500 of the fifth embodiment differs from the annular seal of the fourth embodiment in that the radial surface 555 is connected to the inner surface 560 by a curved portion 557, which has a significantly larger radius of curvature than in the fourth embodiment.

[0049] Another significant difference between the annular seal 500 of the fifth embodiment and the annular seal of the previous embodiment is that, in this embodiment, the annular extension 530 is deformed such that a larger portion of the outer extension surface 545, compared to the inner extension surface 540, engages with the planar surface 485 of the C-shaped flow member to form a fluid-impermeable seal. In the previous embodiment, a larger portion of the inner extension surface, compared to the outer extension surface, engages with the sealing surface of the C-shaped flow member 180 to form a fluid-impermeable seal. Furthermore, the apex 535 helps prevent the outer extension surface 545 from contacting other objects that could potentially damage it, because the apex 535 extends further in the axial direction than the outer extension surface 545.

[0050] Another difference between this embodiment and the previous embodiment is that the outer extending surface 545 is formed by two surfaces 546 and 547. The first surface 546 has a first arbitrary angle relative to the axial direction 515 and extends from the vertex 535 to the ridge 548. The second surface 547 has a second arbitrary angle relative to the axial direction 515, which extends rearward from the ridge 548 toward the sealing surface 520 at a steeper, approximately angled angle; that is, it is more inclined toward the first sealing surface 520 than the first surface 546. The second surface 547 of the outer extending surface 545 extends to the outer surface 565. The first arbitrary angle of the first surface 546 relative to the axial direction 515 is generally in the range of about 91 degrees to about 125 degrees, and more preferably about 95 degrees to about 110 degrees, most preferably about 99 degrees; and the second arbitrary angle of the second surface 547 is generally in the range of about 110 degrees to about 175 degrees, and more preferably about 125 degrees to about 145 degrees, most preferably about 135 degrees. As shown, the inner extending surface 540 extends at a steeper angle than the first surface 546 of the outer extending surface 545, thereby allowing the outer extending surface 546 to press against the planar surface to form a fluid-impermeable seal when the annular extension 530 deforms. The inner extending surface 540 may extend from the apex 535 at an angle of 45 degrees relative to the axial direction 515. A more detailed explanation of the annular extension 530 and the advantages associated with this particular annular arrangement can be found in U.S. Patent No. 9,845,875, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0051] The apex 535 of the annular extension 535 is positioned approximately 75% of the total distance from the inner surface 560 to the outer surface 565, starting from the inner surface 560, so that the radial surface 555 can fully engage the W-shaped flow component.

[0052] about Figure 7 The image shows a cross-section of an annular seal 600 according to a sixth embodiment. This annular seal 600 differs from previous annular seal embodiments in that the apex 635 of the annular extension 630 is closer to the inner surface 660 than the outer surface 665. In this embodiment, the apex 635 of the annular extension 635 is located at approximately 14% of the total distance from the inner surface 660 to the outer surface 665, such that the outer extension surface 645 can adequately engage the W-shaped flow member.

[0053] In this embodiment, the inner extending surface 640 of the annular extension 630 slopes backward from the apex 635 at a steeper gradient than the outer extending surface 645. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner extending surface 640 extends at a 70-degree angle relative to the radial plane 650, and the outer extending surface extends at a 30-degree angle relative to the radial plane 650. Similar to the annular seal 500 of the fifth embodiment, the outer extending surface 645 of the annular extension 630 engages the planar surface 185 of the C-type flow member 180 to form a fluid-impermeable seal between them. In this embodiment, the outer extending surface 645 of the annular seal 600 does not extend to the outer surface 665, but instead extends to a second radial surface 656, which extends substantially parallel to the radial plane 650 to the end face 650.

[0054] Another difference in this embodiment is that the outer extension surface 645 is designed to engage the sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow component 190. For example... Figure 7 As shown in the diagram regarding the second sealing surface 620′, the outer extending surface 645′ engages the annular sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow member 190 to form a fluid-impermeable seal between them.

[0055] about Figure 8 The image shows a cross-section of the annular seal 700 according to the seventh embodiment. The annular seal 700 is similar to the annular seal 600 of the sixth embodiment in that the outer extending surface 745 is designed to engage the sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow member 190. Figure 8 As shown with respect to the second sealing surface 720′, the annular sealing ring 195 of the W-shaped flow member 190 engages with the outer extension surface 745′ to form a fluid-impermeable seal. The apex 735 of the annular extension 735 is located at approximately 14% of the total distance from the inner surface 760 to the outer surface 765, such that the outer extension surface 745 can fully engage the W-shaped flow member.

[0056] One difference between the annular seal 600 of the sixth embodiment and the annular seal 700 of the seventh embodiment lies in the slope of the inner extending surface 740 and the outer extending surface 745. In this seventh embodiment, the inner extending surface 740 extends at a slope of 70 degrees relative to the radial plane 750, and the outer extending surface 745 extends at an angle of 14 degrees. Therefore, compared to the sixth embodiment, the slope of the outer extending surface 745 relative to the radial plane 750 is gentler. As shown, the outer extending surface 745 extends from the apex 735 toward the outer surface 765, wherein the outer extending surface 744 transitions to the outer surface 765 via a bend 749. Because the outer extending surface 745 has a gentler slope relative to the radial plane 750 compared to the inner extending surface, the outer extending surface 744 is the surface on which the planar surface 185 of the annular extension 730 abuts against the C-shaped flow member 180 deforms to form a fluid-impermeable seal.

[0057] about Figure 9 The diagram shows a cross-section of the annular seal 800 according to the eighth embodiment. The annular seal 800 is similar to the annular seal 700 of the seventh embodiment, with a major difference in the slope of the outer extending surface 845 relative to the radial plane 850. In the illustrated eighth embodiment, the outer extending surface extends at an angle of 5 degrees relative to the radial plane 850. Therefore, compared to the annular seal 700 of the seventh embodiment, the outer extending surface 845 has a gentler slope. Furthermore, compared to the curved portion 749 of the seventh embodiment, the curved portion 849 connecting the outer extending surface 845 to the outer surface 865 has a larger radius of curvature.

[0058] about Figures 10A to 10B The figure shows a cross-section of an annular seal 900 according to a ninth embodiment. The annular seal 900 is similar in many respects to the annular seal of the first embodiment. One difference between the annular seal 900 and the annular seal 100 of the first embodiment is that the apex 935 is positioned closer to the outer diameter of the annular seal 900. As shown, the apex 935 is located at approximately 86% of the total distance from the inner surface 960 to the outer surface 965. In this embodiment, the annular seal does not include a radial surface; instead, it includes a curved portion 957 that bends outward from the inner surface 960 to an inner extending surface 940. The inner extending surface 940 extends to the apex 935 at an angle of 57 degrees relative to the radial plane 950, and the outer extending surface 945 extends from the apex 935 at an angle of 50 degrees relative to the radial plane 950. The bore 975 of the annular seal 900 also extends deeper into the annular seal 900 compared to the previous embodiments. This allows the annular seal 900 to be compressed with a small force when it comes into contact with the two opposing sealing surfaces as they deform, so as to form a fluid-impermeable seal between them.

[0059] As described above, each annular seal in the various embodiments includes a sealing surface designed to engage both the C-type flow member 180 and the W-type flow member 190. The exemplary embodiments above illustrate how the annular seal embodiments can be used to form a seal between the C-type flow member 180 and the W-type flow member 190. Figures 10A to 10B As shown, the annular seal 900 is positioned between two C-shaped flow components 180 and 180'. Figure 10A In the uncompressed state, the annular seal 900 is positioned between the sealing surfaces 185 and 185' of the C-type flow components 180 and 180'. Figure 10B In the diagram, the annular seal 900, in a compressed state, is positioned between C-shaped flow members 180 and 180', deforming against the sealing surfaces 185 and 185' of the flow members 180 and 190 to form a fluid-impermeable seal between them. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that any other annular seal embodiment described herein can be similarly positioned between two C-shaped flow members 180 and 180' to form a fluid-impermeable seal between the two C-shaped flow members 180 and 180' using the sealing surfaces of the annular seal configured to engage the C-shaped flow member 180. As another example, Figure 12 An annular seal 100 of a first embodiment is shown located between two C-shaped flow components 180, 180'.

[0060] refer to Figures 11A to 11B The annular seal 900 is positioned between the two W-shaped flow components 190 and 190'. Figure 11A In the uncompressed state, the annular seal 900 is positioned between the sealing rings 195 and 195' of the flow components 190 and 190'. Figure 10B In the diagram, the annular seal 900 is positioned in a compressed state between flow members 190 and 190', and the sealing rings 195 and 195' abutting against the flow members 190 and 190' deform to form a fluid-impermeable seal between them. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that any other annular seal embodiment described herein can be similarly positioned between two W-shaped flow members 190 and 190' to form a fluid-impermeable seal between the two W-shaped flow members 190 and 190' using the sealing surface of the annular seal configured to engage the W-shaped flow member 190.

[0061] Although in each of the above embodiments the annular seal is shown and described as symmetrical about a radial plane, such that the first sealing surface includes the same sealing configuration as the second sealing surface, this disclosure is not limited thereto. It should be understood that the annular seal can be formed where the first sealing surface includes a sealing surface according to one embodiment of the above embodiments and the second sealing surface includes a sealing surface according to another embodiment of the embodiments. For example, the annular seal may include the first sealing surface 120 of the first embodiment and the second sealing surface 220' of the second embodiment. Thus, although the annular seal may not be symmetrical, the annular seal remains orientation-independent, wherein both sealing surfaces of the annular seal are configured to engage sealing surfaces of different types (e.g., C-type and W-type) of flow components.

[0062] It should be further understood that in some forms, only one sealing surface is compatible with multiple sealing types (e.g., type C or type W), while another sealing surface is configured only to form a single type of seal (e.g., the sealing surface of the prior art).

[0063] While the invention has been described with respect to various specific examples, it should be understood that various modifications can be made without departing from its scope. Therefore, the foregoing description should not be construed as limiting the invention, but merely as examples of its preferred embodiments, and the invention can be practiced in various ways within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An annular seal, comprising: An annular body defining an axial hole through which fluid passes in an axial direction, the annular body having a radial plane perpendicular to the axial direction; A first sealing surface on the first axial end of the annular body, the first sealing surface comprising: A first deformable annular protrusion extends from the annular body to a first apex in the axial direction. The first deformable annular protrusion is configured to deform upon engagement with a first planar sealing surface. The first apex is located at 50% to 70% of the distance from the inner diameter to the outer diameter of the annular body defining the axial bore. A first sealing ring engagement surface, the first sealing ring engagement surface being configured to engage a first annular rounded sealing ring, the first sealing ring engagement surface extending inward from the first vertex at a first angle in the range of 10 degrees to 35 degrees relative to the radial plane. A second sealing surface on the second axial end of the annular body opposite to the first axial end, the second sealing surface comprising: A second deformable annular protrusion extends axially from the annular body to a second apex, the second deformable annular protrusion being configured to deform upon engagement with a second planar sealing surface, the second apex being located at 50% to 70% of the distance from the inner diameter of the annular body defining the axial bore to the outer diameter of the annular body; and The second sealing ring engagement surface is configured to engage the second annular rounded sealing ring, and the second sealing ring engagement surface extends inward from the second vertex at a first angle in the range of 10 to 35 degrees relative to the radial plane. The first sealing surface includes an outer extending surface that extends radially outward from the first vertex to the outer diameter of the annular body.

2. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, The second sealing surface is a mirror image of the first sealing surface reflected on the radial plane of the annular body perpendicular to the axial direction.

3. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, The first sealing ring engagement surface has a radial length, the dimension of which is set to receive the first annular rounded sealing ring abutting thereto.

4. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, The first deformable annular protrusion is configured to deform upon engagement with the first planar sealing surface to form a C-type seal.

5. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, The first sealing ring engagement surface is configured to engage the first annular rounded sealing ring to form a W-shaped seal.

6. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, The first sealing ring engagement surface of the first sealing surface extends radially inward about the first vertex of the first deformable annular protrusion, representing a portion of the distance from the first vertex to the inner diameter.

7. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, The first sealing ring engagement surface of the first sealing surface extends radially inward to a radial surface, which extends parallel to the radial plane.

8. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, The first vertex of the first deformable annular protrusion is located at 60% of the distance from the inner diameter to the outer diameter of the annular body.

9. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, Compared to the first sealing ring engagement surface, the outer extension surface has a steeper slope relative to the radial plane to the first vertex.

10. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, The first sealing ring engagement surface is a truncated conical surface extending to the first vertex.

11. The annular seal according to claim 10, wherein, When the first sealing ring engagement surface extends radially outward, the first sealing ring engagement surface extends away from the second axial end.

12. The annular seal according to claim 1, wherein, The first sealing ring engagement surface extends at an angle of less than 30 degrees relative to the radial plane.

13. An annular seal for sealing opposing flow component sealing surfaces that define a fluid flow path, the annular seal comprising: An annular seal body, the annular seal body defining an axial orifice for allowing fluid to pass through in the axial direction; as well as The first sealing surface and the second sealing surface on opposite axial ends of the annular seal body; The first sealing surface includes a first annular extension extending from the annular seal body to a first apex in a first axial direction, the first apex being located at 50% to 70% of the distance from the inner diameter to the outer diameter of the annular seal body defining the axial bore. The first annular extension includes a first extending surface and a second extending surface extending rearward toward the annular seal body in the opposite direction from the first apex. The first extending surface extends inward from the first apex at a first angle of 10 to 35 degrees relative to a radial plane perpendicular to the axial direction. The second extending surface has a steeper slope to the first apex than the first extending surface, such that the first extending surface is configured to deform to engage with a planar surface to form a fluid-impermeable seal. The first extending surface is configured to engage an annular rounded sealing ring to form a fluid-impermeable seal.

14. The annular seal according to claim 13, wherein, The second sealing surface includes a second annular extension extending from the annular seal body to a second apex in a second axial direction opposite to the first axial direction. The second apex is located at 50% to 70% of the distance from the inner diameter of the annular seal body defining the axial bore to the outer diameter of the annular seal body. The second annular extension includes a third extending surface and a fourth extending surface extending rearward toward the annular seal body in the opposite direction from the second apex. The third extending surface extends inward from the second apex at a second angle of 10 to 35 degrees relative to a radial plane perpendicular to the axial direction. The fourth extending surface has a steeper slope to the second apex than the third extending surface. The second annular extension is configured to deform upon engagement with a planar surface to form a fluid-impermeable seal. The third extending surface is configured to engage an annular rounded sealing ring to form a fluid-impermeable seal.

15. The annular seal according to claim 13, wherein, The second sealing surface is a mirror image of the first sealing surface reflected on the radial plane.

16. The annular seal according to claim 13, wherein, The first sealing surface includes a radial surface extending from the axial hole to the first extension surface.

17. The annular seal according to claim 16, wherein, The radial surface includes a planar portion extending perpendicular to the axial direction.

18. The annular seal according to claim 13, wherein, The length of the first extended surface in the radial direction is set to receive the annular rounded sealing ring.

19. The annular seal according to claim 13, wherein, The first vertex is located at 60% of the distance from the inner diameter to the outer diameter.

20. The annular seal according to claim 19, wherein, The second extended surface extends from the first vertex to the outer surface.

21. The annular seal according to claim 13, wherein, The first extended surface has a slope of 30 degrees relative to the radial plane.

22. An annular seal, comprising: An annular body defining an axial hole through which fluid passes in an axial direction, the annular body having a radial plane perpendicular to the axial direction; A first sealing surface on the first axial end of the annular body, the first sealing surface comprising: A first deformable annular protrusion extends from the annular body to a first apex in the axial direction. The first deformable annular protrusion is configured to deform upon engagement with a first planar sealing surface. The first apex is located at 50% to 70% of the distance from the inner diameter to the outer diameter of the annular body defining the axial bore. A first sealing ring engagement surface, the first sealing ring engagement surface being configured to engage a first annular rounded sealing ring, the first sealing ring engagement surface extending inward from the first vertex at a first angle in the range of 10 degrees to 35 degrees relative to the radial plane. A second sealing surface on the second axial end of the annular body opposite to the first axial end, the second sealing surface comprising: A second deformable annular protrusion extends axially from the annular body to a second apex, the second deformable annular protrusion being configured to deform upon engagement with a second planar sealing surface, the second apex being located at 50% to 70% of the distance from the inner diameter of the annular body defining the axial bore to the outer diameter of the annular body; and The second sealing ring engagement surface is configured to engage the second annular rounded sealing ring, and the second sealing ring engagement surface extends inward from the second vertex at a second angle in the range of 10 to 35 degrees relative to the radial plane. The first deformable annular protrusion is formed by a first sealing ring engagement surface and a protruding surface extending rearward toward the annular body in opposite directions from the first vertex. Compared to the first sealing ring engagement surface, the protruding surface has a steeper slope relative to the radial plane to the first vertex, such that the first sealing ring engagement surface is configured to deform to engage with the planar surface to form a fluid-impermeable seal.

23. A metal seal, comprising: An annular body defining a fluid passage extending therethrough in the axial direction; A first sealing surface on the axial end of the annular body, the first sealing surface including an annular extension projecting from the annular body in the axial direction, the annular extension including a first extending surface and a second extending surface, the first extending surface and the second extending surface extending at least partially from the annular body in the axial direction to a vertex, the vertex being located at 50% to 70% of the distance from the inner diameter of the annular body to the outer diameter of the annular body from the inner diameter defining the fluid passage, the first extending surface extending inward from the vertex at a first angle of 55 degrees to 80 degrees relative to the axial direction, the second extending surface having a steeper slope to the vertex than the first extending surface, such that when the first sealing surface presses against a flat surface, the first sealing surface is able to form a fluid-impermeable seal between the annular body and the flat surface, the annular extension being deformable to allow the first extending surface to engage the flat surface; When the first sealing surface presses against the annular sealing ring, the first sealing surface can further form a fluid-impermeable seal between the annular body and the annular sealing ring, wherein the annular sealing ring engages the annular portion of the first sealing surface located radially inside the apex of the annular extension.

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