Continuous fiber reinforced composite and metal electrofusion coupler

An electrofusion pipe coupler, comprising:

• a coupler housing;
• a wire configured and disposed within the coupler housing;
• a first electrode and a second electrode, each affixed to the coupler housing and in electrical contact with the wire;
• a threaded outer surface on the coupler housing;
• and
• a plurality of gripping wedges affixed to the coupler housing, wherein each gripping wedge extends from the coupler housing;
• a first nut mechanically engaged by threads to the coupler, wherein the first nut comprises an access hole formed within a sidewall of the first nut, and wherein the access hole of the first nut aligns with the first electrode;
• and
• a second nut mechanically engaged by threads to the coupler housing that applies gripping force from the wedges to a connected pipe, wherein the second nut comprises an access hole formed within a sidewall of the second nut, and wherein the access hole of the second nut aligns with the second electrode.

A process for joining pipes, comprising:

• inserting a first pipe into a pipe coupler;
• affixing a first nut to the pipe coupler;
• inserting a second pipe into the pipe coupler;
• affixing a second nut to the pipe coupler;
• and
• applying an electric current to electrodes that are disposed on the pipe coupler.