Method and apparatus for connecting coupler fittings to conduit sections

A method for connecting a fitting to a conduit section using a rigid, one-piece collar, the one-piece collar defining a first end, a second end and an opening extending from the first end to the second end, the opening flaring from a position intermediate the first and second ends toward the first end, the method comprising the steps of:

• positioning the one-piece collar over an external surface of the conduit section such that the first end of the one-piece collar faces a receiving end of the conduit section;
• pressing an insert affixed to the fitting into the receiving end of the conduit section;
• and
• pushing the one-piece collar along the external surface of the conduit section toward the receiving end of the conduit section.

A method for connecting a fitting to a conduit section using an insert affixed to the fitting, the insert defining a first raised detent, a second raised detent axially spaced from the first raised detent and a third raised detent axially spaced from the second raised detent, the method comprising the steps of:

• pressing the insert into a receiving end of the conduit section;
• placing the first retainer over an external surface of the conduit section in substantial alignment between the first and second raised detents;
• and
• placing the second retainer over the external surface of the conduit section in substantial alignment between the second and third raised detents.

A method for connecting a fitting to a conduit section using an insert affixed to the fitting, the insert defining two axially-spaced, raised detents and including a staple, the method comprising the steps of:

• pressing the insert into a receiving end of the conduit section;
• threading a strap defining strap end portions through the staple;
• bending the strap near the staple;
• and
• positioning a retainer over one of the strap end portions.

Apparatus comprising:

• a conduit section defining a conduit section lumen;
• a fitting;
• a rigid insert defining a central lumen and two axially-spaced, raised detents, the rigid insert being affixed to the fitting and extending into the conduit section lumen;
• and
• a rigid, one-piece collar positioned over the conduit section in substantial alignment between the two axially-spaced, raised detents.

Apparatus comprising:

• a conduit section defining a conduit section lumen;
• a fitting;
• a rigid insert defining a central lumen, the rigid insert being affixed to the fitting and extending into the conduit section lumen;
• and
• a rigid, one-piece collar positioned over the conduit section, the one-piece collar defining a first end, a second end and an opening extending from the first end to the second end;
• the opening flares from a position intermediate the first and second ends toward the first end;
• and the first end faces the fitting.

Apparatus comprising:

• a conduit section of pipe defining a conduit section lumen;
• a fitting;
• a rigid insert defining a central lumen, a first raised detent, a second raised detent axially spaced from the first raised detent and a third raised detent axially spaced from the first and second raised detents, the rigid insert being affixed to the fitting and extending into the conduit section lumen;
• a first retainer positioned over the conduit section in substantial alignment between the first and second raised detents;
• and
• a second retainer positioned over the conduit section in substantial alignment between the second and third raised detents.

Apparatus comprising:

• a conduit section defining a conduit section lumen;
• a fitting;
• a rigid insert defining a central lumen, the rigid insert being affixed to the fitting and extending into the conduit section lumen;
• The rigid insert including a staple;
• a retainer positioned over the conduit section in substantial alignment between the first and second raised detents;
• and
• a strap defining strap end portions, the strap passing through the staple and one of the strap end positions engaging the retainer.