Abstract: In an apparatus for connecting a lateral pipe to a main pipe, first and second pipe holding means are provided which are connected by means to move one of the pipe holding means towards the other. The pipe holding means for holding the lateral pipe has a guiding sleeve, which at one of its ends has essentially the configuration of the outer surface of the main pipe. The pipes are connected by placing the lateral pipe into said guiding sleeve, heating the end of the lateral pipe that is shaped to fit onto the outside of the main pipe, heating the main pipe at least in the area where the lateral pipe is contacting the main pipe and bringing the two heated areas in firm contact.

Abstract: A method of forming a flange on a thermoplastic pipe wherein the end of the pipe is heated, the wall of the pipe is turned back on itself and the turned-back portion is turned outwardly to form a flange.

Abstract: An end plug is formed by heat-sealing or welding a V-shaped section cut from the wall of a first pipe to a complementary shaped butt end of a second pipe.