Abstract: A dynamic bushing and/or gripper mechanism comprises an apparatus for retaining a tubular member in a position during processing so that the tube does not move transverse to the longitudinal axis of the bushing, but wherein the tube may be rotated within the confines of the bushing and/or in the case of the gripper mechanism the tube may be moved longitudinally within the confines of the gripper.

Abstract: A thermal press for installing metal inserts into a workpiece of thermoplastics material is disclosed and includes a reciprocating driver supported on a frame for movement toward and away from the workpiece. The driver includes a heated bit engageable with an insert positioned upon the workpiece when the driver is moved into a ready operative position and applies heat directly to the insert causing it to locally melt the thermoplastics workpiece. The thermal press features an adjustable air biasing mechanism which is automatically activated upon movement of the driver into its ready operative position after arrest of the bit in its insert engagement position whereby the air biasing means drives the bit independently of the driver to apply a predetermined insert driving force on the bit to fully install the insert into the workpiece upon softening of its thermoplastics material.