A method of coupling polymeric components utilizing electromagnetic energy is disclosed. The method can include obtaining a first component having a first coupling portion, a second component having a second coupling portion, and a susceptor. The method can also include mating the first and second components such that the susceptor is proximate the first and second coupling portions. In addition, the method can include applying electromagnetic energy to the susceptor. The susceptor can convert the electromagnetic energy to heat, which can melt portions of the first and second coupling portions about the susceptor to couple the first and second components to one another upon solidification.

A method of coupling polymeric components utilizing electromagnetic energy is disclosed. The method can include obtaining a first component having a first coupling portion, a second component having a second coupling portion, and a susceptor. The method can also include mating the first and second components such that the susceptor is proximate the first and second coupling portions. In addition, the method can include applying electromagnetic energy to the susceptor. The susceptor can convert the electromagnetic energy to heat, which can melt portions of the first and second coupling portions about the susceptor to couple the first and second components to one another upon solidification.

An underwater pipe assembly includes first and second pipes each of which has opposite inner and outer circumferential surfaces and an annular end face. An inner coil surrounds the inner circumferential surfaces of the first and second pipes at a junction therebetween. An annular inner cover layer covers the inner coil. An outer coil is sleeved on the outer circumferential surfaces of the first and second pipes at a position corresponding to the inner coil. An annular outer cover layer covers the outer coil. When the inner and outer coils are energized, the end faces of the first and second pipes are melted to fuse together the pipes, and the inner and outer cover layers are melted to radially fuse with the pipes.

A component includes at least first and second plastics component parts which are interconnected in a connection zone. A reinforcing element includes at least one wire which bridges the connection zone. The first and second plastics component parts are welded together and/or are fused together in the connection zone. The plastics component parts may be bonded to one another.

An electrofusion saddle comprising: a thermoplastic body comprising a flange and optionally a spigot which erects from said flange; and a resistance heating coil including multiple windings, wherein said resistance heating coil is partially embedded in said flange and is partially protruding from said flange, wherein the protrusion is of at least 25% of an average external diameter of said multiple windings.