Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for forming a liquid tight joint between the ends of conductors (pipes) in a piping system for carrying a liquid metal fluid (LiPb). The ends of the pipes are loosely telescoped to allow for misalignment and then initially cooled by coils to solidify the liquid metal fluid in the annulus between the telescoped ends so that the solidified liquid metal itself seals the joint. Suitably located insulation and cooling fins provide thermal equilibrium for the solidified liquid metal in the annulus to maintain the seal. To disconnect the joint, the joint is heated to liquefy the solidified liquid metal in the annulus so that the ends may be pulled apart.