| abstract |
Pipe couplings are formed by consolidation of a polymer into braided fibre reinforcement by recovery of a heat-recoverable driver thereover. A liner, e.g. of non-cross-linked polyvinylidene fluoride, may be used, preferably with three layers of polymer/braid, to achieve a Freon-tight seal for coupling loosely swaged or butt-jointed refrigerator pipes. Braids carrying a consolidatable polymer which allows the braid crossover points to slip freely during recovery of the driver are preferred for optimum performance. |