Abstract: A return bend ringing apparatus includes a ring station configured to receive a pair of rings and a pair of pins configured to move between a retracted position and an extended position. Each pin includes a tapered end and a shoulder. The pins in the retracted position are configured not to engage the rings, and the pins in the extended position are configured to engage the rings with each pin extending through one of the rings. A gripper is configured to grip and move a return bend into an engagement position in which the return bend engages the shoulder of each pin.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for expanding a free end of a tube by use of a fluted spinning tool. The fluted spinning tool of the present invention, when rotated at a predetermined speed into the free end of the tube, produces a combination of force, rotation, and heat which results in uniform expansion of the free end of the tube. Further, the fluted spinning tool of the present invention allows for the rapid and efficient production of expanded tube parts, such parts being evenly formed with minimal bias on the expanded free ends of the tubes.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for expanding a free end of a tube by use of a fluted spinning tool. The fluted spinning tool of the present invention, when rotated at a predetermined speed into the free end of the tube, produces a combination of force, rotation, and heat which results in uniform expansion of the free end of the tube. Further, the fluted spinning tool of the present invention allows for the rapid and efficient production of expanded tube parts, such parts being evenly formed with minimal bias on the expanded free ends of the tubes.