摘要 |
An apparatus and method are provided for thermoplastically forming a contour 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 the 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 surface of the inner support structure, is configured to urge the formation portion of the duct against the mold contour to thermoplastically form the duct.
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