Abstract: A protective sheath is intended to cover a flexible tube or hose used for conveyance of a working fluid to a hydraulic or pneumatic device, and is formed of a strip that is helically wound around an outer surface of the flexible tube. The strip comprises: a core of electrically insulating and flame retardant material; and a core-covering layer of electrically conductive and flame retardant material having a first surface portion intended to contact the outer surface of the flexible tube, and a second surface portion opposite to the first surface portion and forming an on sight surface of the strip when it is wound around the flexible tube. The core-covering layer of electrically conductive material dissipates electrostatic charges which are formed on the outer surface of the flexible tube, and protects the outer surface of the flexible tube from wear and flame by performing a flame retardant action.

Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing plastic tubular elements with rubber or metal fittings at one or both ends, includes a conveyor for a plastic tube, a stop for metering a given length of the plastic tube, a cutter for cutting the length and a series of jaws for transferring the cut length to a least one head which automatically effects an axial mounting of a fitting over or within at least one end of tube length, after insertion of a core within the fitting and tube end bores.