POST-FORMING OF THERMOPLASTIC DUCTS

摘要

An apparatus and method are provided for thermoplastically forming a conto ur in a thermoplastic duct defining a passage. The apparatus includes a longitudinal collar that defines a cavity and a rigid inner support structure extending longitudinally in the cavity. The collar and/or the inner support structure define a mold contour. One or more heaters are configured to heat at least a formation portion of t he duct to a formation temperature. An expansion member, such as an expandable elastomer, which is disposed between an inner surface of the collar and an outer surfac e of the inner support structure, is configured to urge the formation portion of the duct against the mold contour to thermoplastically form the duct.