Fluid conduits with integral end fittings and associated methods of manufacture and use
US7987690B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 11, 2008 |
| Grant date | Aug 2, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 29, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16L21/035
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Fluid conduits for plumbing and other uses having integral end fittings are disclosed herein. A method of forming a fluid conduit in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure includes providing a copper tube having a first inner diameter and a first wall thickness, and heat treating an end portion of the copper tube to a predetermined hardness. The method can further include increasing the wall thickness of the end portion from the first wall thickness to a second wall thickness, and increasing the inner diameter of the end portion from the first inner diameter to a second inner diameter. The method further includes forming a circular groove in an interior surface of the end portion and positioning a seal in the circular groove.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.