After much debate with Jim Vaught and Mike Mehlberg, I've determined that the problem is what we've suspected.

As you can see, the tubing is crimped into place. The fitting set in the upper half of the picture is the fitting that was attached to the pressure chamber. If you click the image you can see how the crimp should appear. Now I'm at an impasse:

I know what's wrong, I know what needs to be done to fix it, but I'm not sure how to fix it...

I want to get the tube back in its fitting, but I can't force it in the fitting, I can expand the fitting but I'm afraid that I'll damage it further. Alas, I'm considering finding an alternative solution. Basically I'll need to find a pressurized fitting that can attach to both sides, and still be able to cope with intense heat and pressure. Tomorrow I'll have more answers.

Work today was as productive as I expected. Looks like our alpha release might actually meet expectations. Shhhh don't tell anyone. However as the project winds down, I feel that I've learned a great deal and am eager to apply this knowledge to the next phase of development.

Sebastian was particularly fussy today. Once you'd play with him he would calm down, but if he had to sit still he'd be rather unpleasant. This does not bode well. It seems the little man has already begun his trek to independence. Though, of course, he is entirely dependent on us, his defiance to authority is steadily increasing. It's really interesting though, watching his reactions to "NO" develop. At first he'd quickly pout, but already he's started looking back at us like, "Do something". Alas we'll have start discipline soon. He exhibits the ability to understand basic communication, and as such he'll understand basic discipline.