Apparatus and Method for Joining Tubulars

A preferred joint restraint includes a dampening force and a restraining force to control relative movement between a pad and gland and between the gland and bolt, respectively. The preferred restraint includes a gland, pads, and bolts. Preferably, a flexible member disposed in the pad selectively provides the dampening and retaining force. A preferred joint restraint also includes a pad and a bolt that coact to provide a controlled wedging action. The wedging action supplies supplemental tooth penetration and/or enhanced clamping force that stabilizes a shifting tubular member (pipe). A preferred tooth arrangement for a restraint pad produces an intermittent penetration pattern in the pipe. A preferred spacing member for a restraint tunes a clamping force generated by the restraint to accommodate variations in pipe geometry and/or materials. A preferred restraint is arranged according to a method that uses pipe expansion to provide an enhanced gripping action.