Timothy D Nicholson

US Patent:

54334560, Jul 18, 1995

Filed:

Nov 15, 1994

Appl. No.:

8/339653

Inventors:

Timothy P. Nicholson - Cheshire CT

Assignee:

The Advanced Products Company - North Haven CT

International Classification:

F16J 1500

US Classification:

277236

Abstract:

A metal seal is provided which comprises an annular metal jacket or housing having a convoluted cross-section. The convoluted metal jacket includes at least two convolutions, each of which retains a spring (preferably a coiled helical spring) for reinforcing the jacket when installed under a load. Preferably, the convoluted cross-section is serpentine such that each spring is retained on an opposed surface of the annular jacket relative to an adjacent spring. In a first embodiment of the present invention, the convolutions (and hence the springs retained in each convolution) are aligned with one another. In a second embodiment, the convolutions (and springs retained therein) are offset from one another, preferably in a triangular configuration.