Abstract: An apparatus for clamping a plastic fitting against a plastic pipe and for holding them together with a predetermined clamping force includes a carriage and guide rods for guiding the carriage in vertical motion above a fixed pipe support. A frame is fixed with respect to the pipe support, and first and second toggle links are pivoted to the carriage, to the frame and to each other in such a way that the links can achieve an aligned position in which the carriage is in its lowermost location. Mechanical interference is provided to prevent the toggle links from going significantly past the dead center position represented by the alignment. A receptacle is resiliently supported below the carriage for holding the plastic fitting, and a lever is provided for rotating one of the toggle links. The connection of the toggle links to the frame is vertically adjustable with respect to the frame, in order to adjust the degree of downward force placed on the plastic fitting.

Abstract: An apparatus for clamping a plastic fitting against a plastic pipe and for holding them together with a predetermined clamping force includes a carriage and guide means for guiding the carriage in vertical motion above a fixed pipe support portion. A frame portion is fixed with respect to the pipe support portion, and first and second toggle links are pivoted to the carriage, to the frame portion and to each other in such a way that the links can achieve an aligned position in which the carriage is in its lowermost location. A mechanical interference means is provided to prevent the toggle links from going significantly past the dead center position represented by the alignment. Means are connected to the carriage for holding the plastic fitting, and lever means are provided for rotating one of the toggle links.