Patent ID: 7455280
Filing Date: 2008-11-25
Classification: F16L

Abstract:
1. A self-sealing tube fitting comprising: a fitting body; a valve plunger supported in the fitting body for axial movement between open and closed positions, the plunger having a valve portion and tube support portion extending axially from the valve portion, the valve portion having a portion thereof projecting transversely beyond the tube support portion to form an abutment; and a releasable tube holder movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, the tube holder surrounding the tube support portion and defining therewith an annular space into which a tube can be inserted and telescoped over the tube support portion for engaging the abutment such that further insertion of the tube into the fitting body effects movement of the plunger from its closed position to its open position; wherein the releasable tube holder, when engaged, grips the tube on an outer surface at a region thereof that is axially coextensive with the tube support portion whereby the tube will be supported interiorly by the tube support portion radially inwardly of the location that the tube holder grips the tube.