Abstract: A fitting for a fluid conduit includes a coupling body, a coupling nut, a conduit gripping device that is axially driven by the coupling body and the coupling nut to provide grip and seal against a conduit, and a strain sensor unit disposed on a neck portion of the coupling body, the strain sensor unit including at least a first axially extending strain sensor positioned and oriented for strain sensor unit measurement of a first strain of the neck portion corresponding with a first fitting assembly condition, and a second strain of the neck portion corresponding with a second fitting assembly condition different from the first fitting assembly condition.

Abstract: A preassembly for a conduit fitting includes an annular fitting component having an interior wall extending along a central axis from an inboard end to an outboard end, a conduit gripping device disposed in the annular fitting component and comprising an outer radial surface at a back portion thereof, and a retaining device having an inboard first interlock portion that interlocks with the outer radial surface of the conduit gripping device, and an outboard second interlock portion axially spaced apart from the first interlock portion, the second interlock portion interlocking with the interior wall of the annular fitting component, such that the retaining device holds said annular fitting component and said conduit gripping device together as a discrete subassembly.

Abstract: In an exemplary method for installing a fitting on a conduit, a fitting body is provided with a threaded end portion, a neck portion extending rearward from the threaded end portion, and an internal conduit socket extending axially into the neck portion and terminating at a counterbore. A conduit is inserted in the internal conduit socket of the fitting body. A fitting nut is pulled up on the fitting body to grip and seal a conduit gripping device against the conduit. Relative axial displacement of at least first and second reference locations on the neck portion is detected to determine whether the fitting is in a first fitting assembly condition or a second fitting assembly condition different from the first fitting assembly condition.

Abstract: A springless diaphragm valve and associated diaphragm have increased lifting force for opening the valve. In an embodiment, the diaphragm is a diaphragm assembly of a domed diaphragm having a surface that contacts the valve seat to close the valve, and a biasing member which may also be a domed diaphragm. The diaphragm has a central portion that is attached to the biasing member, for example by a weld. The diaphragm and the biasing member may be nested together, and each may be circular and include a domed portion. The weld is preferably in a central portion of the diaphragm near the apex or geometric center of the diaphragm.