Abstract: A hand-holdable, portable welding apparatus for smoothly joining the lumens of sections of thermoplastic tubing systems, including those that may be located in a cramped work site. The integrity of the lumens is maintained when the tubes are being welded by use of a selectively rigidizable, non-elastomeric mandrel of PTFE or PFA having a predetermined maximum size dimensioned to the ID of the lumens being joined. The welding unit employs a resiliently mounted coaxial heater block in conjunction with arcuate radiator inserts that are centered about the tubes to be welded regardless of the diameter of the tubes. Spring-loaded dogs grab the periphery of the tubes as they are inserted into the welding unit and prevent them from moving apart when heat is applied.

Abstract: A three-part, re-usable coupling for making a sanitary connection to a flexible hose is disclosed which includes a coupling body of corrosion-resistant material having a central channel for laminar flow. At one end of the central bore, the coupling body is provided with a standard sanitary conduit flange-face. At the other end the coupling body is provided with a notched, substantially cylindrical barb for insertion into the lumen of the flexible hose. An externally threaded section lies between the two ends of the coupling body. A split collar or sleeve which is at least as long as the barb has an externally tapered surface and a cylindrical, internal, threaded surface applies uniform compression to the end-portion of the flexible hose through which the barb is inserted. A nut having an internal taper that matches the external taper of the split collar makes up on the external threads of the coupling body urging the split collar to firmly secure the hose to the barb.