September 2013, Vol. 68 No. 9
Equipment Spotlight
Plastic Pipe Fusion/Fittings: Equipment Spotlight
Plastic pipe fusion and fittings from GF Piping Systems, McElroy,
IPEX Inc., Footage Tools and Q-TEK.
GF Piping Systems
The Electro Plus Fusion Machine joins GF Piping Systems’ Fuseal (polypropylene), Fuseal Squared Double Containment (polypropylene), Fuseal 25/50 PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride), and PPro-Seal Natural PP (polypropylene) piping systems. Key to the unit’s ease of use is its hand-held user interface. The operator can place the fusion power unit on the floor while using the cables and hand-held unit on a ladder with the pipe and fittings. The unit can fuse multiple joints in one fusion cycle and its one-button repeat fusion cycle for same-size joints. The Electro Plus has an operating temperature range of 14 degree F to 113 degrees F and compensates automatically for ambient temperature. Input voltage requirements are 100-130 VAC or 200-250 VAC 60 Hz AC RMS. 800.854.4090, gfpiping.com
McElroy
The TracStar 500 Series 3 is the latest evolution of the world’s first self-contained, self-propelled, all-terrain fusion machine. The fusion machine is capable of fusing thermoplastic pipes from 6-inch IPS to 20-inch in outer diameter. New standard features include an indexer-mounted heater and facer, economy engine throttle setting and hydraulic clamping. The fusion carriage can be removed and lowered into a ditch for fusions in tight spaces. An Automatic TracStar 500 Series 3 will be available as well, with both versions capable of recording fusion parameters with a McElroy’s DataLogger. 918.831.8611, mcelroy.com/fusion
IPEX Inc.
Injection molded Blue Brute fittings have a wall thickness 125 percent larger than SDR18 pipe, and custom-made fabricated fittings are wrapped with a tough layer of fiberglass for extra protection. Blue Brute systems are immune to corrosion from aggressive soils and galvanic action. The glass-like finish of PVC reduces friction losses and eliminates the tuberculation common in iron pipes. As a result, pumping costs are reduced and water quality is maintained. A thicker bell results in a more robust fitting. All Blue Brute fittings are shipped with standard gaskets that accept cast-iron-sized PVC pipe. Transition gaskets for IPS-sized pipe are an option for all sizes. For applications where fittings must be buried in soil with hydrocarbon contamination, Nitrile gaskets are available. 800.463.9572, ipexinc.com
Footage Tools
The Butt Fusion System features a four clamp system that provides added strength when fusing PE and HDPE pipe sizes ranging from 1 ¼-6 inches in diameter. Trimming or facing the pipe is simple using the gear drive power-facing tool, which is positioned between the pipe clamps using the guide pins. Guide plugs on the facing tool fit inside the pipe wall and assist in holding the pipe firmly in place during the facing operation. The heating irons set at 500 degrees Fahrenheit are used to heat fuse the pipe. The irons are positioned using the same guide pins located on the pipe clamps. Machine clamp movement is generated by the operator through a rack and pinion style mechanism that applies consistent pressure with minimum effort. 888.737.3668, footagetools.com
Q-TEK
Q-TEK’s model 23, 45 and 66 saddle fusion machines are designed for polyethylene pipe ranging from 1¼-inch to 6-inch IPS. Standard 10-inch top frames are used for applying standard tapping tee fittings in tight work areas. High volume 16-inch top frames are used for both standard and high volume fittings. Top frames are easily interchanged. All Q-TEK liners and tapping tee holders are interchangeable on all Q-TEK saddle fusion machines. For trouble-free service, a baked epoxy finish is applied to the frames and all steel parts are plated for protection. 800.258.7899, qtektools.com
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