Abstract: The present invention provides a technique for forming a connection to an object (26) with a shape memory alloy sleeve (4). In the preferred embodiment, the sleeve (4) has a first end (10) with formations on its internal surface for forming a seal with the external surface of an object (26) located within it, and a second end which has a predetermined configuration when recovered in which it can form a connection to another object (30) for engaging the other object (30) to form a connection to that object (30).

Abstract: A threadless self-swaging coupling for joining or capping pipe. The coupling includes a coupling member and an actuating member of a heat shrinkable polymer material or a shape memory alloy material which undergoes a change in shape when heated from a martensitic state to an austenitic state. The coupling includes an inner sleeve and an outer ring surrounding the inner sleeve. The outer ring is movable with respect to the inner sleeve such that the inner surface of the inner sleeve is deformed radially inwardly and swaged to a pipe fitted therein when the outer ring is moved with respect to the inner sleeve. The outer ring is engaged with the actuating member such that the outer ring can be rotated with respect to the inner sleeve when the actuating member is heated into the austenitic state. The actuating member can be left in place or removed from the coupling.