A device for axially connecting two pipe elements, including a coupling means with a first coupling means part assignable to a first pipe element, a second coupling means part and an intermediate connecting part arrangeable between the two coupling means parts, wherein a first articulation element formed on the first or second coupling means part is configured to cooperate with a second articulation element formed on the intermediate connecting part, in particular in a positive manner, forming an articulated connection between the first or second coupling means part and the intermediate connecting part, or a second articulation element formed on the first or second coupling means part is configured to cooperate with a first articulation element formed on the intermediate connecting part, forming an articulated connection between the first or second coupling means part and the intermediate connecting part.