Patent ID: 8801994
Filing Date: 2014-08-12
Classification: B29B,B29C,B29K,B29L,F16L

Abstract:
1. A method of forming at least one external annular flange adjacent one end of a fibre reinforced thermoplastic tube, the method comprising: mounting the tube on a mandrel, the tube being formed from a material comprising substantially continuous reinforcing fibres helically wound in a thermoplastic matrix; clamping the tube in a collar, the collar having a first annular cavity for forming a first flange and a second annular cavity for forming a second flange, the second annular cavity being nearer to an end of the tube than the first annular cavity; heating the tube in the region of the first annular cavity to soften the material of the tube in the region of the first annular cavity; applying an axial load to the end of the tube to cause the material of the tube to flow into the first annular cavity to form a first flange; heating the tube in the region of the second annular cavity to soften the material of the tube in the region of the second annular cavity; and applying an axial load to the end of the tube to cause the material of the tube to flow into the second annular cavity to form a second flange.