Patent ID: 6143458
Filing Date: 2000-11-07
Classification: B05C

Abstract:
An apparatus for handling a tubular member, including;a hollow member having a closed end with a portion thereof being inflatable;a device having said hollow member mounted thereon, said device being movable to move said hollow member from a position remote from said tubular member to a position in which said hollow member is inserted in said tubular member with said hollow member extending in the tubular member a distance less than one half the length thereof;a source of fluid coupled to said hollow member to supply fluid to said hollow member for inflating said inflatable portion to secure said hollow member to the tubular member so that said hollow member and the tubular member move substantially in unison with one another;a tank having a supply of liquid therein, said device being adapted to immerse the tubular member in the liquid after said hollow member is secured thereto; anda chamber having said tank located therein with the temperature of said chamber being maintained higher than the temperature of the liquid in said tank.