Abstract: Apparatus and methods for establishing sterile or disinfected/decontaminated connections or conduits between separate fluid path sub-assemblies. Each section of the fluid path to be connected include one or multiple heatable or heating surfaces, and a sterile volume or chamber defined by at least one of the heatable or heating surfaces. Prior to establishing a sterile access or connection between separate sections of a fluid path, the heatable or heating surfaces are sterilized or disinfected/decontaminated by means of heat. Such means may include ohmic resistive heating, inductive heating, and/or self-heating through an exothermic reaction. All surfaces establishing the connection or conduit are therefore sterile or disinfected/decontaminated, and a sterile connection or conduit is established.