Abstract: A cable comprising a stress-bearing matrix extending substantially through the length of the cable; and a plurality of conducting elements extending substantially through the length of the cable, the plurality off the conducting elements being located within and spaced from one another by the stress-bearing matrix, wherein at least one of the plurality of conducting elements is in intimate contact with a low friction liner disposed about at least one of the plurality of conducting elements, and the at least one of the, conducting elements is longitudinally moveable relative to the stress-bearing matrix.

Abstract: A combination of a cable (308) and a device (350) comprises a cable (308) with an outer surface and having a stress-bearing matrix (312) extending substantially through the length of the cable, a plurality of conducting elements (316) each extending in a path substantially through the length of the cable and being located within the spaced from one another by the stress-bearing matrix (312). At least one hole (352, 356) is cut from the outer surface of the cable to a point within the stress-bearing matrix and intersecting the path of at least one of the conducting elements (316) and a conducting element (316) extends through the hole and is connected to the device.

Abstract: A cable comprising a stress-bearing matrix extending substantially through the length of the cable; and a plurality of conducting elements extending substantially through the length of the cable, the plurality of said conducting elements being located within and spaced from one another by said stress-bearing matrix, wherein at least one of the plurality of conducting elements is in intimate contact with a low friction liner disposed about the at least one of the plurality of conducting elements and the at least one of the conducting elements is longitudinally movable relative to the stress-bearing matrix.

Abstract: Tube units useful for a variety of application are provided. Preferably, individual laminated tubes are joined to each other by intermediate pieces to produce a wide ribbon of parallel tubes. The tubes are porous to certain substances, allowing them to serve as an apparatus to exchange material between two or more fluid streams. The tubes are particularly useful as membrane modules for exchange of material between two fluids. Continuous and discontinuous methods for constructing such tube units are also taught.

Abstract: Tube units useful for a variety of application are provided. Preferably, individual laminated tubes are joined to each other by intermediate pieces to produce a wide ribbon of parallel tubes. The tubes are porous to certain substances, allowing them to serve as an apparatus to exchange material between two or more fluid streams. The tubes are particularly useful as membrane modules for exchange of material between two fluids. Continuous and discontinuous methods for constructing such tube units are also taught.