Abstract: A coupling arrangement for use in an air delivery circuit includes a first connector tube defining a first passage therethrough and a second connector tube defining a second passage therethrough. The second connector tube telescopically receives a portion of the first connector tube within the second passage. A release mechanism includes wedges coupled to the first or second connector tube. The first and second connector tubes have a number of corresponding features that latch the first connector tube within the second passage of the second connector tube when the first connector tube is axially inserted along the longitudinal axis a predetermined distance. Actuation of the wedges radially toward the longitudinal axis causes axial movement among the first connector tube and the second connector tube a second predetermined distance that is sufficient to unlatch the corresponding features.

Abstract: Protectors are provided for both internally and externally threaded ends of a tubular member. Each protector includes a plastic and a metal member. The plastic member of each protector defines threads which are adapted to threadedly engage threads of the tubular member. Each metal member defines a projection that is adapted to be received by a recess formed in the plastic member. Each plastic member defines a channel that guides the metal projection to the recess as the metal and plastic members are joined together.