Abstract: Uncured thermoset composite reactants containing ultraviolet curable reagents may be effectively cured by pultrusion using a unique molding die which uniformly irradiates the uncured composites contained within the die. The die includes strategically positioned passageways communicating through the chamber walls of the die to the die chamber. The passageways are equipped with fiber optic cables connected to an ultraviolet generator at one cable end and ultraviolet discharging end for discharging ultraviolet radiation within the die chamber at an opposite cable end. Ultraviolet light conducted to the die chamber by the fiber optic cables uniformly initiates and catalyzes the uncured reactants to produce a fully cured thermoset composite. Uncured composite reactants may be continuously fed to the die as the cured composites are continuously withdrawn from the die.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for connecting a pair of end-to-end abutting tubular structural members which are commonly used in the construction of handrails and the like, which includes a pair of interengageable inserts, and each of which is disposed within one of the tubular members and designed to interengage with the other insert at a point adjacent to where the pair of tubular members meet. Each connector insert includes a plurality of free-end leg portions which interengage in an alternate overlapping relation with the leg portions of the other insert so as to provide a strong support at the joint between the abutting ends of the tubular members. The overlapping surfaces of the interengageable inserts may be further bonded together so as to prevent the same from becoming separated, and each tubular member may also be bonded at least to the respective insert into which it is inserted, thereby securely adhering the respective tubular members in a closely abutting relationship.

Abstract: A fence post and wire support for electric fences wherein the post is made of unidirectional glass fibers in a plastic resin and has a T-shaped cross section. The resulting structure is light but rigid, and has flat surfaces which eliminate the need for an anchor plate. A number of wire-like clips are adapted for crimping around the post or for resiliently engaging the post to form a wire support. The wire-like clips are designed to cooperate with the T-shaped cross section of the post to provide a secure mounting thereto. Alternatively, a rubber-like wire support having two ring portions which fit snugly around the post, and having a hinge portion joining the ring portions may serve as the wire holder.