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: A leak detecting method utilizes a pressure vessel for holding gas under ssure and a transparent chamber partly filled with liquid. A conduit defines a gas pathway from the vessel to a location within the chamber which is beneath the surface of the liquid. A fitting is provided for connection to a system which is to be tested and a further conduit connects the fitting through a first valve to a location within the liquid chamber, and through a second valve with the interior of the vessel. The fitting is connected to a system to be tested, and the first valve is closed. The system is pressurized to fill the conduit means and allow gas entering the conduit means to pass through the second valve into the interior of the vessel. The second valve is enclosed, thus isolating the vessel from the system. After a pause to allow leakage in the system to lower the pressure, the first valve is open and if gas bubbles in the liquid, then leakage has occurred.

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.