Abstract: A tubing termination comprises a termination portion adapted to make a fluid connection and a tube attachment portion, adapted to receive a tube and to be crimped or swaged. The tube attachment portion comprises a retention mechanism that is adapted to be manipulated during crimping or swaging to bite the tube so as to lock the tube attachment portion relative to the tube. This retention mechanism may take the form of a deformable bite ring, a deflectable c-insert, irregularities defined on an inner surface of the tube attachment portion, and/or the like. The tube attachment portion also may include a resilient sealing mechanism adapted to provide a seal between the tube and the tube attachment portion, and thereby a fluid-tight connection between the tube and the termination portion.

Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention is directed to a replacement cage assembly (106) to modify a conventional power tong (100) to enable the power tong to grip and rotate smaller diameter tubular segments (90). The method of the invention is directed to modifying a power tong (100) to grip and rotate a tubular segment of a diameter smaller than could be gripped by the unmodified power tong (100). The invention provides a rotary gear insert (240), having an interior second cam surface, rotatably captured intermediate an upper cage plate (230) and a lower cage plate (210) and slidably receivable within the conventional rotary gear of the power tong (100) and to cam and rotate a plurality of replacement gripping jaws (220, 221) pivotally captured adjacent the second cam surface (240) and intermediate the upper cage plate (230) and the lower cage plate (210).

Abstract: An insulating covering is provided for a pressing jaw of a pair of pressing jaws for hydraulic or electric pressing tools for pressing fittings onto pipes or for the press connection of electric cables. The insulating covering includes a pair of legs having a substantially c-shaped cross-sectional configuration, and an articulation portion provided between the legs.

Abstract: An apparatus for folding a catheter balloon comprises a stationary base member; a rotatable drive hub which is moveable in relation to the stationary base member; and a pleating head aligned with respect to the stationary base member and to the rotatable drive hub. The pleating head includes at least three segments, each having a proximal end and an angled distal end with at least one angled side face terminating in an edge of a predetermined length. Each segment has a centerline between the proximal and distal ends, each segment having a proximal point and a distal point, and the proximal point being pivotally coupled by pins to the stationary base member and the distal point being pivotally coupled by pins to the rotatable hub member. The segments are arranged so that the segment distal ends are disposed adjacent to and a predetermined distance away from a central point and defining a central aperture with a spiral-pleat dimension having at least three channels in communication with a central aperture.

Abstract: A fuel line disconnection tool includes a handle member with a hand grip end and a slotted opposite head end adapted to receive generally mirror image flanged adapters having semi-cylindrical tubular projections which enable placement of the adapters in the slot at the head end of the handle. The adapters may then be fitted about a fuel line and the handle attached thereto and manipulated to disengage the connection mechanism between the fuel line and fuel filter.

Abstract: A crimp machine includes a linear mover that forces a ram plate assembly toward a base plate to radially contract an insert. The insert has an inner surface defining an interior dimension that mates with a fitting and crimps the fitting onto a flexible hose as the insert is radially contracted. To adjust for fittings of differing dimensions, a plurality of inserts of varying inside dimensions may be used. To make the crimp machine adjustable for a wide range of fitting dimensions, a plurality of adapter rings of differing inner diameters may be employed. Each adapter ring is removably interposed within a base plate aperture and has a differing inner surface for mating with an insert of desired proportions.

Abstract: A folding stand adapted to be secured to the bottom wall of a portable crimping device which, in a folded position, is substantially flat against a wall portion thereof and, in an unfolded position, vertically raises the crimping device to a predetermined working height, the folding stand including a base portion, having a rear pivot axis, a mounting portion, having a front pivot axis, and a pair of elongated cross members for interconnecting the base and mounting portions, via oppositely directed fastening members, with opposed ends of the cross members being adapted to pivot, relative to the adjoining base and mounting members, between respective first and second stop point folding surfaces, in a folded position, and first and second stop point standing surfaces, in an unfolded position, the respective stop point folding and stop point standing surfaces being angularly spaced therebetween via first and second predetermined reflex angles.

Abstract: A tool for uncoupling tubular connections includes a pair of bifurcated arms joined together by an integral, arcuate, bridge member wherein the bifurcated arms of the tool include ends mounted transversely on the arms in opposed relation.

Abstract: A fully formed flared portion is molded as part of the main body of the one embodiment of the fitting. The flared portion is inserted through the back side of a retaining cap. A collet assembly is assembled together around the smallest diameter of the tube fitting below the flare. The collet assembly is fitted into the top of a mating nut. The retaining cap is then snapped onto the top of the nut, completing the assembly.

Abstract: A handheld hydraulic assembly tool for advancing a fitting's swage ring onto a fitting's connecting body while a conduit is received in the connector body to mechanically and sealingly connect the fitting to the conduit includes a clamping assembly defining a piston chamber fluidly connected to a pump chamber. The clamping assembly has a fixed jaw adapted to engage one of the connector body and the swage ring and a moveable jaw adapted to engage the other of the connector body and the swage ring. A piston is disposed in the piston chamber. The piston and the moveable jaw are configured such that movement of the piston in a first direction moves the moveable jaw toward the fixed jaw thereby moving the swage ring axially onto the connector body to mechanically and sealingly connect the connector body to the conduit received therein when the jaws are engaged to the connector body and the swage ring. A pump body defines the pump chamber and is connected to the clamping assembly.

Abstract: A device for the quick coupling of a pipe fitting (50) to a flanged pipe is described. The device comprises a coupling plate (13) that is rigidly fastened to one end of the fitting so as to be axially approachable to the front of a terminal flange (12) of the flanged pipe, at least three locking wheels (15) rotatable around their own axes and projecting frontally from the plate (13) in circumferentially spaced positions and remotely controllable member (19) for controlling the rotation of the rollers (15) around their own axes. Each locking wheel (15) has round shape with a cut (24) along a circle chord in order to allow in one angular position with the chord facing the axis, and to prevent in all the other angular positions, the passage of the flange (12) of the flanged pipe among the wheels (15) for the reciprocal approach and the movement away of the plate (13) and the flange (12).

Abstract: A portable hose fitting insertion apparatus and method. The apparatus can be hand held and operated in areas such that hose repairs can be made without removal of the hose. A friction operated ratcheting mechanism is preferably used to drive a shaft forward. A pad is preferably disposed on an end of the shaft and pushes on an outer surface of the fitting. A clamping mechanism is preferably disposed on a terminal portion of the apparatus and holds an end portion of a hose in place while a fitting is inserted.

Abstract: A pipe coupler gripping each pipe with hand grip actuated clamps, and seating the end of one pipe in the aligned end of another pipe using leverage plates having a slot or channel with a drop notch, facilitating additional leveraging.

Abstract: A pipe gripper includes an adjustable throat for receiving a pipe and a bore having an unbroken inner circumference that exceeds 180 degrees.

Abstract: A swaging tool for swaging fittings and joining separate tubes together. The swaging tool includes a removable head assembly having a head member and a first spring clip adapted to retain a first die to a portion of the head member. The head assembly includes a die block and a second spring clip adapted to retain a second die to a portion of the die block. The swaging tool includes a power unit assembly having a base member adapted to receive the die block and head member of the head assembly. The power unit assembly includes a moveable piston adapted to engage the die block so as to move the second die towards the first die during a swaging operation.

Abstract: A fuel line assembly tool and method for repairing or creating replacement fuel lines. An exemplary embodiment of this tool uses a squeeze operated plunger to insert a fitting into a length of synthetic flexible tubing by holding the parts and plunger in alignment for accurate and direct insertion. Another exemplary embodiment uses specially adapted fittings assembled in a kit for use in creating replacement fuel lines.

Abstract: A pressing tool includes at least two pressing jaws hinged together to enclose a workpiece having an inserted pipe end. The pressing tool also includes an opening area located between the at least two pressing jaws and at least one hinge pin arranged opposite the opening area. Further included is a pressing element located adjacent to the at least one hinge pin and arranged to be moved to the workpiece during a closing of the at least two pressing jaws.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pair of pressing jaws for hydraulic or electric pressing tools for pressing fittings onto pipes or for the press connection of electric cables, the two pressing jaws being disposed for rotation about a common axis and each pressing jaw forming a bearing eye for this purpose. In order to configure a pair of pressing jaws of the type in question in a more functionally advantageous manner, it is proposed that each pressing jaw forms two bearing eyes with coaxial bearing openings, and the bearing eyes are disposed in an interengaging manner in the assembled state.

Abstract: A jaw arm for a compression tool has a jaw recess at one end and a jaw insert is supported in the recess for pivotal displacement relative thereto about an insert axis. A compression tool comprises a pair of parallel spaced apart side plates, and a pair of the jaw arms pivotally mounted between the plates. The pivotal inserts are self-aligning with respect to a pipe and coupling to be crimped together and provide for use of the compression tool in areas with limited accessibility.

Abstract: Embodiments of a system and method for sealing an end of a flowline to an end fitting are disclosed. Such methods include providing an end fitting housing having a bore, wherein a portion of the bore has a tapered inner surface, inserting an open end of a flexible pipe into the bore, the flexible pipe having an external layer, to create a tapered annular space between the tapered inner surface and the external layer, and positioning a ring into the tapered annular space such that the ring radially contracts upon the external layer causing the external layer to deform to create a seal.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing a forming element from a concrete pipe includes a support member and a removal device including first and second elements. The first element is attachable to the forming element and has a stop. The second element is supported by the support member such that the second element is swingable with respect to the support member. In addition, the second element is engageable with the stop so as to apply a force to the first element for removing the forming element from the concrete pipe.

Abstract: An axial swaging tool including a housing defining a chamber, a piston rod held statically in the chamber, a piston conformingly receiving and slidable along the piston rod, a ram conformingly receiving and slidable on a first end of the piston rod, a first engagement member statically positioned on the housing, a second engagement member positioned on the piston, and a spring adjoining the piston and an end of the piston rod. The spring is configured to bias the piston away from a second end of the piston rod, such that the second engagement member is biased away from the first engagement member, the piston rod is biased against a first end of the housing, and piston is biased against the ram, which in turn is biased against a second end of the housing.

Abstract: A jaw (39) for crimping a generally cylindrical compression sleeve (34) in a compression coupling is disclosed in, which at least two support members (39, 41) are adapted to support at least two arcuately shaped dies (24) for movement toward and away from each other for compressing the compression sleeve (34) about an inner concentric pipe or tube (36) to an inner arcuate die surface corresponding in shape and dimension to a predetermined outer surface portion of the compression sleeve so as to engage and compress the compression sleeve when positioned thereabout and moved toward each other. The dies (24) each have at least one crimping roller (30) rotatably mounted adjacent the die surface. The crimping roller (30) is adapted to form a crimp on the compression sleeve and the inner member to form a mechanical attachment therebetween. Various combinations of die/roller arrangements are disclosed to encircle and compress a sleeve/pipe combination to form a compression coupling.

Abstract: An apparatus for reducing the size of a medical device, the apparatus including at least one independently operable discrete section which can reduce the diameter of the medical device, the independently operable discrete section including a plurality of coupled movable blades arranged to form an aperture whose size may be varied, the blades movable so as to allow the aperture to be sized to contain a medical device and to alter the size of the aperture. The blades may be curved and/or overlapping. Each blade may be pivotally connected to a first member or mount and slidably engaged with a second member or collar. The size of the aperture may be adjusted by rotating the collar relative to the mount.

Abstract: A one-piece unitary compression cap for securing a pipe or tube on a fitting. The cap includes at least one inward deformation that provides an interference fit between the cap and the pipe or tube. Consequently, the cap cannot fall off the pipe or tube before being permanently crimped.

Abstract: A tool for removal of a fuel line from a vehicle fuel module by engagement of and displacement of a locking member, said tool including first and second arms with semi-cylindrical sections at each end that may be used in combination to engage the locking member.

Abstract: A system for coupling conduit sections includes a coupling tool with a pair of lever arms pivotally interconnected and each mounting a clamp assembly. The clamp assemblies are adapted for releasably clamping the conduit sections. A coupling has a generally tubular configuration with a throughbore with multiple annular internal ribs. A coupling method includes the steps of clamping first and second conduit sections with respective clamping assemblies, placing the conduit section ends against the coupling throughbore ends, and squeezing the tool lever arms together whereby the conduit section ends are inserted into the coupling throughbore in fluid-tight sealing and pull-out resistant engagement.

Abstract: A metal ring gasket for a threaded union provides a high-pressure, fluid-tight, metal-to-metal seal between subcomponents of a fluid conduit. The metal ring gasket is made of carbon steel or stainless steel depending on a composition of the fluid to be conveyed through the conduit. The metal ring gasket has beveled corners and is received in a beveled annular groove on mating surfaces of the subcomponents of the threaded union. When compressed in the annular groove between the subcomponents, the metal ring gasket creates an energized, high-pressure, fluid-tight seal that is highly resistant to pressure and is capable of maintaining a seal even at elevated temperatures resulting from direct exposure of the fluid conduit to fire.

Abstract: A pipe disassembling tool includes a first arm and a second arm pivotally connected with each other by a pin. The first arm and the second arm respectively have a first connecting portion and a second connecting portion formed on a first end of each of the first arm and the second arm. A torsion spring is sleeved on the pin and has two opposite ends respectively abutting against the first arm and the second arm to make the first arm and the second arm abut each other when the tool is in an original condition. A first disassembling portion is formed on a second end of the first arm and a second disassembling portion is formed on a second end of the second arm for user to detach the pipe.

Abstract: A tube insert installing tool includes first and second tube gripping portions, a tube insert supporting portion and a user actuation portion. The first and second tube gripping portions are configured to engage an end part of a tube. The tube insert supporting portion is configured to support a tube insert. The user actuation portion is operatively coupled to the first and second tube gripping portions to move the first and second tube gripping portions between an open release orientation and a tube gripping orientation. The user actuation portion includes an insert pressing part configured and arranged to push the tube insert into the end part of the tube during subsequent movement of the user actuation portion in a single movement of the user actuation portion from the open release orientation to a final tube insertion orientation.

Abstract: A tool for tensioning loosening, and opening spring-type clamping elements with two radially outward-projecting actuating arms, the tool including a hand-operable actuating part, a Bowden cable having a bore and a sheath, the Bowden cable being connected to the actuating part, and a tensioning part with two jaws which are able to move relative to each other. Each of the jaws is configured to act on one of the actuating arms, a first one of the jaws being connected to the core, and a second one of the jaws being connected to the sheath of the Bowden cable so that the jaws can be brought toward each other and thus execute a tensioning movement. The actuating part includes a device for automatically locking in a tensioning stroke and a device for feeding the Bowden cable.

Abstract: The method includes the step of positioning the device on a sheath (94) having, for each latching tab (7), a portion adapted to be housed between this tab and a cylindrical wall of the device; the step of making the sheath enter between each tab and the cylindrical wall until means preventing the withdrawal of the tabs are released; and the step of moving the two bodies (2,3) away from each other. The instrument has, in addition to the sheath (94), a guidance slide (77).

Abstract: Pressing device for the relative axial displacement of two mutually coaxial parts that can only be displaced towards one another by using a high pressing power, for example collet chucks or clamping sleeves, into corresponding holes in tool or collet chuck holders. The device has a housing (7) consisting of two at least partially separable shells, which can be placed coaxially around the parts to be pressed. In the closed state, the housing has coaxial annular contacting edges (19, 20) for engaging with one of the parts to be pressed. In the inner chamber (21) of the housing there is an axially displaceable pressing plate (22) with an annular contacting edge (23) for engaging with the second part to be pressed. The press plate is displaced by a number of pressure cylinders (13, 14) arranged in a ring at equal angular distances between the housing and the press plate.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for assuring or determining appropriate closure of a crimp ring assembly. In some embodiments, positive stopping apparatus on the crimp ring are used to assure appropriate closure of a crimp ring assembly. The positive stopping apparatus may be adjustable or non-adjustable and may be positioned on the free ends or adjoined ends of the segments of the crimp ring. In some embodiments, adjustable and/or cam operating pivot connections on the crimp ring are used to assure appropriate closure of a crimp ring assembly. In some embodiments, sensing apparatus or systems are disclosed for assuring or determining appropriate closure of a crimp ring assembly.

Abstract: A radial press has a press frame with press yokes movable relative to one another. The press yokes have on each side of a dividing gap (T) a recess with initial slide surfaces on which at least two supports situated displaceably opposite one another relative to the gap (T). The first slide surfaces for the displaceable supports are aligned parallel to one another and perpendicular to a pressing direction (P). Two of the oppositely lying support bodies can be displaced by a wedge-shaped thrusting body which can move parallel to the dividing gap (T), the thrusting body being mounted in the recesses between two second slide surfaces, the second slide surfaces forming an angle between them. The angle is chosen such that the path of the thrusting body parallel to the dividing gap (T) is of the same magnitude as the pressing stroke of the press yokes perpendicular thereto.

Abstract: A motorized device for linking sections of threaded conduit such as electrical conduit, and a method of linking such conduit are described. In one form, the device is formed as a motorized tool, including a motor (such as an electric motor) and a bit. The motor is coupled to the bit, for example via a rotating collar and/or chuck, so that the motor can drive the bit rotationally. The bit preferably includes a drive ring with internal threads, where the drive ring is adapted (i.e., sized and shaped) so that the internal threads engage external threads on the ends of the conduit sections. The motor can be actuated to rotate the bit, thereby screwing the conduit into a connector. In another form, a bit is adapted for connection to a chuck and/or collar of a motorized drive, for example a prior art threading tool. A method for using a motorized tool to link sections of conduit using a bit or motorized tool is also described.

Abstract: A pipe joining tool including a mounting bracket for releasable attachment to a pipe. The mounting bracket has a U-shaped platform with an intermediate portion for engaging a pipe and a pair of slotted end portions extending from the opposite ends of the intermediate portion in a substantially parallel manner. A wedge slidably extends through the slots in the end portions for driving a pipe positioned within the U-shaped platform into tight engagement with the intermediate portion. A flexible link is secured to the mounting bracket and extends therefrom. A pipe fitting keeper is carried by the flexible link for releasably grasping a pipe fitting and suspending the pipe fitting adjacent the end of a pipe positioned within the U-shaped platform. A pair of spaced apart legs projects forwardly from the intermediate portion of the U-shaped platform. Each of the spaced apart legs has an internally threaded bore within which is positioned a bolt.

Abstract: An apparatus for folding a catheter balloon comprises a stationary base member; a rotatable drive hub which is moveable in relation to the stationary base member; and a pleating head aligned with respect to the stationary base member and to the rotatable drive hub. The pleating head includes at least three segments, each having a proximal end and an angled distal end with at least one angled side face terminating in an edge of a predetermined length. Each segment has a centerline between the proximal and distal ends, each segment having a proximal point and a distal point, and the proximal point being pivotally coupled by pins to the stationary base member and the distal point being pivotally coupled by pins to the rotatable hub member. The segments are arranged so that the segment distal ends are disposed adjacent to and a predetermined distance away from a central point and defining a central aperture with a spiral-pleat dimension having at least three channels in communication with a central aperture.

Abstract: A tool for connecting and disconnecting a coupling having a combination of pliers and a wrench. The pliers have a first jaw with extensions which are positioned over the yokes of the first part of the coupling and a second jaw for positioning adjacent the second part of the coupling. The wrench has a third jaw which is slidably attached to the second jaw. The third jaw has extensions which are positioned around the yokes of the second part of the coupling. The pliers of the tool are used to compress the first and second parts of the coupling together. The wrench is used to rotate the second part of the coupling to disconnect or connect the coupling.

Abstract: A hand-held device for selectively attaching a water drip system connector to a water drip system conduit or detaching the water drip system connector from the conduit. The device can be employed to connect different types of attachments such as plugs to conduits or disconnect the attachments therefrom.

Abstract: Assemblies are disclosed for articulating a crimp ring for crimping a fitting relative to an actuator for actuating the crimp ring. The crimp ring includes segments for engaging the fitting, and the actuator includes arms for actuating the segments. Embodiments disclosed include articulating assemblies coupling between the actuator arms and crimp ring segments having multiple axes of articulation. Additional embodiments disclosed include articulating assemblies that are insertable between the arms and segments, articulating assemblies having fixed angled arms of the actuator, articulating assemblies using ball and sockets between the arms and segments, and articulating assemblies used in an intermediate position between the arms and segments.

Abstract: A flexible connector comprises a length of corrugated tubing, a polymeric sleeve aligned with the distal end of the length of corrugated tubing, and a length of mesh tubing extending the entire length of corrugated tubing and over the polymeric sleeve. The distal end of the corrugated tubing, the polymeric sleeve, and the distal end of the length of mesh tubing are received in a sleeve which is formed integrally with an end piece. The sleeve is crimped into permanent retaining engagement with the length of corrugated tubing, the polymeric sleeve, and the length of mesh tubing. The end piece functions to secure the flexible connector into engagement with an adjacent component.

Abstract: Pipe plugs are difficult to remove due in part to the design of the pipe plug to be extremely tight fit with a pipe. Pipe plugs are described as being removed by a pipe plug removal tool. The pipe plug removal tool permits easy access to a trench and employs leverage to remove the pipe plug.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods include an adaptor to establish a flow path through the side of a first piece of tubing (rather than the end of the tubing) into a second piece of tubing or other device. The adaptor includes a threaded head slightly larger than the hole in the side of the tubing into which it is to be inserted, and gripping portions to assist in forcing the threaded head through the opening. After the head has been inserted, a sealing element is tightened to prevent leakage. To join lay-flat tubing to drip tubing, the other end of the adaptor includes an annular barbed end; a sleeve member around the barbed end; and cooperating structures acting between the barbed end and the sleeve to move those relative to each other. Barb structures on the sleeve member cooperate with the barbed end to sealingly engage the drip-tubing end.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods permit splicing or joining a plurality of tubing ends. A central tubular member has a fluid passage therethrough. The tubing ends are mounted over the extremities of the tubular member, and are held in place by a multi-part sleeve around the central member and cooperating detents (on the exterior of the tubular member and on the interior of the sleeve) that pinch or bite the tubing when the sleeve is actuated (such as via a turnbuckle action) to force cooperating pairs of the detents toward each other.

Abstract: The present specification discloses a swaging press including a piston member co-operable with a plurality of die shoes to drive the die shoes inwardly upon axial movement of the piston member during a swaging operation, the piston member having a frusto-conical recessed region divided into a plurality of circumferentially disposed bearing surface zone of a defined axial length, each of the bearing surface zones having an inner axial end with a numerical radius of curvature less than or equal to the radius of curvature of a circular line forming the lateral edges of each of the bearing surface zones at the inner axial end whereby at least 50% of the outer bearing surface of each said die shoe remains in bearing engagement with the adjacent said bearing surface zone over the axial movement of the piston member during a swaging operation.

Abstract: A branch pipe joint comprises a branch pipe joint body to which various pipes each having a different diameter are connected; and connecting pipes to be provided between the branch pipe joint body and the pipes. The connecting pipes are selected from various kinds of connecting pipes in accordance with sizes of fitting portions of the pipes. The selected pipe has a fitting portion at one end portion thereof to which the pipe is fitted, while the other end portion of the connecting pipe is connected to a communication port provided to the branch pipe joint body.

Abstract: Apparatus for swaging a ferrule or ferrules onto an outer wall of a cylindrical member includes a hydraulic power section and an adapter tool. The hydraulic section is disposed within a housing, and the adapter tool is at least partly retained in the housing and also is fully removable from the housing without affecting the hydraulic power section of the apparatus. The hydraulic section includes a piston that is moved under force of hydraulic pressure applied thereto from a hydraulic pressure source. The adapter tool includes a driven swaging die that is moved from a retracted position to an extended position in response to movement of the piston. The sleeve and anvil are releasably secured together so that the adapter tool can be removed from the housing as a unitary assembly. Size changes can be accommodated by removing a first adapter tool of a given size and replacing it with a second adapter tool of a different size.

Abstract: A swaging tool for applying an assembly force on a fluid connector includes a tool main body, a first fluid connector holding section attached to the main body, a second fluid connector holding section attached to a piston, and a sensing system to determine when the fluid connector is in the proper position for assembly. The assembly tool applies an assembly force on the fluid connector when the fluid connector is in the proper position for assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the sensing system includes a fluid passage formed in the main body leading to a fluid port where the fluid port is positioned to be covered by the fluid connector when the fluid connector is in the proper position for assembly. The swaging tool applies an assembly force on the fluid connector when the fluid port is substantially covered by the fluid connector.

Abstract: A pressing tool for pressing pipe ends, and in particular, ends of pipe to be laid for sanitary purposes. The pressing jaws of the tool are connected to one another in an articulated manner, each jaw having an insert that has a circle-like-configuration in the area of interaction between the respective jaws.