Abstract: An integral transverse flange for a duct includes a first upturned portion extending substantially perpendicularly from a duct wall of the duct. The flange further includes a second portion bent rearwardly from the first upturned portion, and a third return portion turned toward the duct wall and rounded back toward the first upturned portion from the second portion. A fourth L-shaped portion extends from the third return portion, the L-shaped portion having a first arm arranged adjacent to and in close relation with the second portion and a second arm arranged adjacent to and in close relation with the first upturned portion. A bead is formed in the first upturned portion.

Abstract: A duct reinforcing rod and fabrication apparatus for use with a conduit and a threaded element dimensioned to fit within the conduit includes a positioning device to position the conduit at an insertion position and an insertion device for inserting the threaded element a predetermined distance into the conduit. A deformation device is also employed to deform the conduit such that the deformation occurs at two locations on the conduit, the two locations being longitudinally spaced from one another along a length of the conduit.