Abstract: A hinged connector for joining a first structural member to a second structural member in a support structure, comprising first and second metal connector members each having a base portion for attachment to a respective structural member and a tab integral with the base portion. Each base portion includes an integral upset gusset welded to the tab of the respective connector member to add support to the tab and add stiffness to the connector member.

Abstract: A method for making endless lengths of nylon coated metal tubing which coating has high mechanical strength characteristics and a low gloss surface finish. The method includes passing the formed tubing through a first powder coating region and applying a layer of nylon generally uniformly surrounding the circumference of the tubing. This first nylon powder coating is heated sufficiently to cause the nylon coating to achieve complete melt-flow into a continuous first nylon coating region which would have a relatively high gloss. The coated tubing is next passed through a second powder coating region with the surface temperature of the first coating still above the melting temperature of the nylon. At this second coating region a second powder coating of the same type of nylon is applied. The second coating is cooled below the melting point of the nylon before the second coating completely melts leaving the outer surface with a very low gloss surface finish.

Abstract: An in-line, continuous, roll-forming tube mill production line. The line includes a supply station for continuously supplying steel strip, a roll-forming station for forming the strip into a tubular configuration, and a welding station for joining by welding the edges of the strip. The line also has at least one station for performing a process which calls for the application of a liquid to the exterior of the tubing such as cleaning, rinsing or applying a coating. A preheating station is provided for preheating of the tubing by induction and a powder coating station applies a plastic coating or a metallically pigmented plastic coating to the exterior of the tubing, the powder coating station having a chamber and means for selectively isolating the tubing from chamber. Finally, the tube mill production line includes a heating station for baking and/or curing of the powder coating.