Patent ID: 6427993
Filing Date: 2002-08-06
Classification: B23K,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
A pipe fitting apparatus, comprising:a first connector unit for releasable connection to a first pipe adjacent a pipe end to be coupled, the first connector unit having a groove for location against an outside surface of the first pipe and having a groove axis for extending parallel to the axis of the pipe; a second connector unit for releasable connection to a second pipe adjacent a pipe end to be coupled, the second connector unit having a groove for location against an outside surface of the second pipe and defining a groove axis for extending parallel to the pipe axis; a pivot coupling for adjustably securing the first and second connector units together, the pivot coupling having a pivot axis extending transverse to the groove axis for pivotal adjustment of an angle of the second connector unit relative to the first connector unit, and a releasable locking device for releasably securing the second connector unit at a selected orientation relative to the first connector unit; and a level device secured to one of the connector units for determining when the connector unit is in a horizontal orientation.