Method of forming pipe end structure

Abstract

A method of forming a pipe end structure includes providing a pipe assembly including a metal pipe blank, a ridge, and a tubular fitting, and pressing an inner surface of the pipe blank outwardly. The ridge protrudes outward from an outer surface of the pipe blank. The fitting includes a threaded portion having a thread on an outer surface thereof. The fitting has a first edge and a second edge and is fitted over the pipe blank with the first edge of the fitting being in contact with the ridge protruding from the pipe blank. An inner surface of the pipe blank is pressed outwardly such that a part of the pipe blank protrudes from an outer surface of the pipe blank outwardly at a position adjacent to the second edge of the fitting, thereby forming a locking portion that is in contact with the second edge of the fitting.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.