| abstract |
A flexible metal pipe (2) is coated with a retractable impervious polymer sheath (9), preferably of the semi-crystalline polymer type. The invention is characterized in that an intermediate layer (8) is arranged between the retractable polymer sheath and the metal pipe, said layer being made of an optionally cured or crosslinked elastomer or a thermoplastic elastomer. Said layer (8) is either in the form of a continuous tubular envelope or in the form of a band. The sheathed pipes of the invention are useful, in particular, in the manufacture of flexible, optionally reinforced oil and gas lines. |