I'll talk to my prof tomorrow and explain the situation to
him.
It's a major setback, but not a permanent one. The tube was
permanently affixed to the flange.... which means that I need to
manufacture a new flange. Luckily I've still got all the technical
drawings with me, and with any luck, the techs will be able to
machine the part soon.
Well, at least I can take heart that my prof's a good guy.... he
doesn't expect me to do more than what he thinks is reasonably
achievable.
I just feel really, really sucky right now..... need a little time
off work. 
