Abstract: An apparatus for supporting and sealing connections made between male and female cylindrical metallic dryer vent pipes is described. An elongated cylindrical clamping apparatus having a longitudinal opening through the surface thereof permitting the apparatus to be opened to encircle joined pipe members, and including clamping straps and optionally a rubbery sealing material disposed inside of the clamping apparatus to provide an improved gas seal permits the connection to be firmly held together without using rivets or screws. For pipe connections where an elbow is involved, two elongated cylindrical clamping devices may be used, and additional screw-type straps may be employed to connect the two devices with one or more straps being disposed over the heal of the elbow, and at least two straps crisscrossed over the throat of the elbow for added stability.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for reducing lint accumulation from a clothes dryer exhaust in a dryer exhaust system, by increasing the airflow through the exhaust system over that generated by the dryer exhaust fan is described. A blower or fan is used to direct a flow of air into a flow coupler into which the dryer exhaust conduit is vented, such that the airflow reduces the pressure in the dryer exhaust conduit, thereby increasing the flow and reducing the accumulation of lint therein.