Michel Tube: “AluGrip” aluminium pipe coupling for pneumatic conveying lines

“AluGrip” aluminium pipe coupling – (Photo: Michel Tube).

Michel Tube Engineering GmbH is presenting its “AluGrip” aluminium pipe coupling at Fakuma 2026. Its central feature is an injection-moulded 3D sealing sleeve designed to simplify installation and compensate for pipe tolerances.

The sealing sleeve has a continuous, internally roughened surface and chamfers to facilitate pipe insertion. Sealing ribs are intended to compensate for dimensional deviations and provide tactile feedback during insertion. According to the manufacturer, they hold the connector on the pipe, making it easier to insert the second pipe and tighten the screws, particularly during vertical installation. A central recess accommodates a stainless steel sheet that protects the seal. This is intended to prevent contact between the conveyed material and the seal and improve electrical conductivity at the pipe joint.

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The sleeve is secured between the two screws to prevent it from shifting when the pipe is inserted. According to the manufacturer, an interlocking design in the closure area creates a connection without dead spaces. As the screws are tightened, the seal protrudes until it reaches the aluminium body, indicating the installation status. Michel Tube calls this function “torque control”. The product information provides no details on a specified tightening torque or measurement accuracy.

For connections between glass and stainless steel pipes, as well as between two glass pipes, the company offers a plug-in sleeve system for which it says a patent application has been filed. This allows the combination of pipe materials to be changed on site. A defined stop and the soft seal are intended to protect glass pipes from damage. The plug-in sleeves also feature sealing ribs to compensate for tolerances, and the respective pipe diameter is engraved on them.

According to the company, the coupling can be supplied with PFAS-free or medically certified seals. The source material does not specify the seal materials or certifications. The seal and body are manufactured in Germany. Automated production is intended to enable short delivery times. The roughened seal and the spring action of the aluminium body are designed to facilitate disassembly. The manufacturer describes the coupling as recyclable; no quantitative carbon footprint data is available.

Michel Tube was founded in 2014 and specialises in components for pneumatic conveying technology. According to company information, the supplier employs 45 people at two locations and serves industries including plastics, food and chemicals. Its manufacturing equipment includes tube laser cutting systems and welding robots.

Fakuma 2026
Friedrichshafen, Germany
12–16 October 2026
Hall B1, Stand 1113

More information: www.michel-tube.de

Michel Tube Engineering GmbH, Tauberbischofsheim, Germany

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