Expandable connector to axially join tubular devices

A connector for fixedly securing end portions of at least two tubular means and being positionable within bores of each of said end portion of each said tubular means comprising an elongated first half shell and an elongated second half shell and being dimensioned to fit internally of said end portions of said two tubular means, each of said half shells having an elongated axially disposed recessed wall, said first half shell and said second half shell when in connector use being in confronting relationship whereby the recessed wall of said first half shell and the recessed wall of said second half shell define a void, an inflatable casing positioned in said void and being dimensioned to exert substantially uniform pressure against each of said recessed walls of each of said half shells thereby radially forceably thrusting apart each half shell internally of said end portions of said at least two tubular means to frictionally engage the said connector to the internal end portions of said two tubular means and thereby effectuating connection of said tubular means, said half shells together having a substantially centrally located radially extending flange dimensioned larger than said bores of each said end portion of each of said tubular means, said flange of at least one said half shell having a transverse bore to communicate internally of said void and said casing having a valve passing through said transverse bore to provide access internally of said casing whereby said casing may be pressurized through said valve.