Abstract: A PTFE preform, a PTFE preform forming tool and PTFE extruder and associated methods. PTFE preforms comprise a shape and configuration to facilitate compression and axial advancement within extruder apparatus to provide a resultant exudate that is devoid of internal interfacial surfaces or transitions. The present preforms, apparatus and methods are advantageous to reduce PTFE waste during PTFE manufacturing processes.

Abstract: A flexible fire resistant hose assembly having a multilayer structure in which a radially inner fluoroplastic liner tube comprises a convolution or groove at an external facing surface. The inner liner tube is surrounded by a plurality of thermally insulating layers and a braided or woven reinforcement layer. Such layers are then encapsulated by at least one radially rubber cover layer. A hose assembly end fitting arrangement is also provided in which an end fitting is crimped to a hose end via a two component end fitting and a portion of the end fitting is surrounded by rubber.

Abstract: A flexible fire resistant hose assembly having a multilayer structure in which a radially inner fluoroplastic liner tube comprises a convolution or groove at an external facing surface. The inner liner tube is surrounded by a plurality of thermally insulating layers and a braided or woven reinforcement layer. Such layers are then encapsulated by at least one radially rubber cover layer. A hose assembly end fitting arrangement is also provided in which an end fitting is crimped to a hose end via a two component end fitting and a portion of the end fitting is surrounded by rubber.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the tissue massage devices and methods described herein, a tissue massage device can include a base configured to be grasped in a user's hand such that a first surface at a proximal end of the device abuts against the user's palm. The device can also include a massage head extending from a second surface of the base that is distal to the first surface, the massage head having a generally convex shape and including a textured non-slip surface formed on a distal portion thereof. The textured non-slip surface can prevent sliding motion between the device and a user's skin, thereby causing sliding between subcutaneous fascia and muscle that is therapeutic.

Abstract: A flexible hose (100) having a grooved liner (102) forming a part of the side walls of the hose to define an internal bore (101). Helically formed grooves (108) are formed at an external facing side of liner (102) with an innermost side (104) comprising a substantially smooth, non-profiled surface. A coiled wire retainer (107) is housed within each groove (108) to provide a hose (100) resistant to crushing and collapse of the internal bore (101) due to kinking when the hose (100) is flexed.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for attaching an encapsulated marker to a flexible hose, such as a hose or cable. The method involves providing a flexible hose (100) having a rubber or plastic outer cover (202) positioned over an inner layer (203, 204). An annular segment of the outer cover is separated and removed to form an annular groove in the outer cover. A marker (101) is then positioned over the inner layer (203, 204) within the groove and a transparent encapsulating component (201) applied over the marker. A containment means (200) is then overlaid on the encapsulating component and overlaps onto a region of the outer cover either side of the groove. The cover assembly is then heated at elevated temperature. After cooling, the containment means (200) is removed. The encapsulated marker assembly is therefore provided which is chemically bonded or fused to the outer cover (202) of the flexible hose and is aligned flush with the external surface of the flexible hose.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for attaching an encapsulated marker to a flexible hose, such as a hose or cable. The method involves providing a flexible hose (100) having a rubber or plastic outer cover (202) positioned over an inner layer (203, 204). An annular segment of the outer cover is separated and removed to form an annular groove in the outer cover. A marker (101) is then positioned over the inner layer (203, 204) within the groove and a transparent encapsulating component (201) applied over the marker. A containment means (200) is then overlaid on the encapsulating component and overlaps onto a region of the outer cover either side of the groove. The cover assembly is then heated at elevated temperature. After cooling, the containment means (200) is removed. The encapsulated marker assembly is therefore provided which is chemically bonded or fused to the outer cover (202) of the flexible hose and is aligned flush with the external surface of the flexible hose.

Abstract: A flexible hose (100) having a grooved liner (102) forming a part of the side walls of the hose to define an internal bore (101). Helically formed grooves (108) are formed at an external facing side of liner (102) with an innermost side (104) comprising a substantially smooth, non-profiled surface. A coiled wire retainer (107) is housed within each groove (108) to provide a hose (100) resistant to crushing and collapse of the internal bore (101) due to kinking when the hose (100) is flexed.