Fluid coupling assembly

Abstract

A fluid coupling assembly having a first and second metal tube, each tube having an outwardly flared end. A first connector includes a throughbore, a first end and a second end with a radially inwardly extending rim at the first end of the first connector. The first connector is disposed over the first tube so that the tube extends outwardly from the first end of the first connector and so that the rim registers with one side of the first tube. A second connector also includes a throughbore with a first and second end and in which the second end of the second connector is flared outwardly. The second connector is disposed over the second tube so that the second tube extends outwardly from the first end of the second connector and so that the second connector flared surface registers with one side of the second tube flared end. An annular seal member is longitudinally slidably mounted within the first connector throughbore. This seal member includes abutment surfaces at each end which register with the other sides of the first and second tubes. The second tube is internally threaded at a second end while, similarly, the second connector is externally threaded at its second end. Thus, upon tightening the first and second connectors together, the outwardly flared ends of the tubes are sandwiched in between the first connector rim, the second connector flared surface and the abutment surfaces on the seal member.