The Boeing Company
DUAL WALLED TUBE FLEXIBLE JOINT SEAL SYSTEMS AND METHODS

Abstract:

Described are systems and methods for a segmented aircraft refueling tube with a tube interface that includes a plurality of seals configured to deform while allowing relative movement between tube segments. The systems described herein include a tube interface that includes a first ring, a second ring, a first seal disposed between a first ferrule and the first ring, a second seal disposed between a second ferrule and the second ring, a third seal disposed between the first ring and a sleeve, and a fourth seal disposed between the second ring and the sleeve. The plurality of seals per ring allow for misalignment between the ferrules to be accommodated by two or more seals. Thus, the amount of deformation per seal for any given misalignment is lower and easy to install seals such as O-rings are used.