Technical support package: Flexible seal accommodates part mismatch. NASA Tech Briefs, Fall 1982, volume 7, no. 1

Abstract

A radial seal for the inside diameter of a part that develops an out-of-round condition and grows under pressure was developed. The primary seal consists of overlapping segments fabricated from metal or composite material that has been molded into a rubber jacket. The purpose of the segments is to provide the strength to withstand side loads (seal tested at 2,300 psi), and the rubber encapsulation provides the sealing surface and needed flexibility to conform to the variable eccentric shape.