HDPE Pipe Products
Expanded Stiffener
High Density Polyethylene Pipe (HDPE) is different form other types of
pipe. Thermal expansion and contraction are greater, while yield strength
and rigidity are lower. Most detrimental to joining is HDPE's tendency
to cold-flow over time when subjected to a constant load. Additionally,
the surface finish of HDPE pipe has a low frictional coefficient and the
pipe ends "toe-in" after being cut. these characteristics have made joining
of HDPE pipe by any other means than fusion impractical. However, fused
joints are not always possible.
The Smith-Blair Expanded Stiffener resolves the problems associated
with mechanically joining HDPE pipe. A stainless steel cylinder is positioned
into a short section of HDPE pipe (pup) and expanded hydraulically to create
an interference fit with the pipe. The fit is permanent and will not loosen
with time or changes in temperature. The "pup" can easily be fused above
ground allowing mechanical connections in areas not accessible to fusion
equipment.
Smith-Blair's Expanded Stiffener is the solution to mechanically joining
HDPE pipe.
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Made of corrosion resistant Type 304 Stainless Steel (other materials available
on request)
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No loose parts to press or hammer into place.
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Easily fused to HDPE pipe above ground allowing mechanical coupling in
areas not accessible to fusion equipment.
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Can be expanded to match the O.D. of other pipe types.
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Minimum loss of pipe I.D.
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Available in sizes 6" through 36".
Maxi-Grip EZ
Finally, a reliable, easy to use mechanical coupling in a wide variety
of sizes and configurations.
Maxi-Grip EZ from Smith-Blair, Inc. The one coupling that combines the
mechanical strength you've come to expect from Smith-Blair with an evolutionary
design that makes installation a snap. no disassembly, special equipment
or time-consuming alignment procedures are required. It can be installed
by a single worker in minutes -- with a standard torque wrench.
Maxi-Grip EZ utilizes an advanced gasket pre-load mechanism -- the wave
spring. This exclusive engineering concept causes the bolting action to
compress the gaskets before engaging the gripping rings. The result is
a positive seal...and maximum grip...every time!
Maxi-Grip EZ is the easy-installation solution for joining any combination
of steel, plastic or cast iron pipes. And it is available in a wide range
of sizes and configurations which exceed all requirements of DOT 192.283(b).
All this, plus the protection of factory-applied fusion-bonded epoxy
coating -- the toughest finish in the industry.
Maxi-Grip EZ offers all these benefits:
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Universal application: Maxi-Grip EZ is designed to seal and grip
independently in all applications, including anchored or abutted steel,
plastic, or cast iron pipe.
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Inventory reduction: One Maxi-Grip EZ does it all, on all types
of pipe. No need to bother with transition fittings, welding, fusing, blocking,
harnessing or shop fabrication.
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Proven design: Though the Maxi-Grip EZ has innovative features to
simplify installation, its design is based upon field-proven sealing and
gripping principles.
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Three classes: Maxi-Grip EZ is available in three classes -- Class
I, for straight connections on plastic and steel pipes in any combination;
Class II, for reducing connections; and Class III, for joining
plastic or steel to cast iron pipe.
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Insulating and conductive models: Class I and Class II
models are available in either conductive or insulating styles. Class
III couplings provide complete electrical isolation from the cast iron
pipe.
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Wide variety of sizes: Maxi-Grip EZ is available in all commonly
used IPS and CI pipe sizes.
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Fusion-bonded epoxy coating: Simply put, it's the best corrosion
protection available.
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Plus the ease of installation: The Maxi-Grip EZ is designed with
field operations in mind. There's no need to be concerned about varying
pipe diameters, cold temperatures or deflected alignments. No disassembly
or special tools are required. All you need is a standard torque wrench.
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