i was watching something the other day on speed. they were making headers for an sbc 400. anyways.. they implemented these weird coupler-flanges that align the pipe and hold it for welding. im curious what these are called so i can stock the sizes of pipe i work with.

I think this is what your looking for. They are made by IC Engine Works, the owners name is Hector I believe, he's a real nice guy, talked with him a few times. And they are patented also, so I'm pretty sure this is what you saw.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVzX8KMe-lg

http://www.summitracing.com/search/brand/ICEngineworks/

thats interesting but not it. its a sleeve with a flange that both pieces of pipe slip on and its welded in. (the center is cut out but i made quick model of it)

http://www.morrobaycyclery.com/mordantly/images/pipe%20butt%20flange.JPG

"no hotlinking", can you save the picture to your computer and upload it?

I see it now.
http://www.streetperformance.com/part/hooker-headers/exhaust-tubing-alignment-weld-sleeve/1136788-12102hkr.html
The idea came from pipe alignment sleeves. Pipe welders use them because they hold the pipe in place and make it easy to lay in a hot root pass. Good idea for tubing also, probably easier to use than IC's clamps.
MC

thats them. thanks!