Method for embedding resistance heating wire in an electrofusion saddle coupler

A method for embedding a resistance heating wire in a saddle-like thermoplastic element having a curved surface, the method comprising the steps of:

• (a) providing an operating head including heat grooving means including a heated tip, and wire inserting means, said operating head and the thermoplastic element being actively and concurrently movable in at least one of X, Y, .alpha., .beta. and .gamma. directions one relative to the other;
• (b) using said heated tip of said heat grooving means and relative movement for creating a groove in the surface of the thermoplastic element, said heated tip dictating a shape and a depth of said groove;
• and
• (c) thereafter using said wire insertion means and said relative movement for inserting the resistance heating wire into said groove, to implant the resistance heating wire in the groove.