Flange Pipe – Piping Products

Product Description

The AMERICAN Fastite joint, furnished in sizes 4" to 64", is a flexible, rubber ring compression-type joint used extensively in underground service for water, sewage or other liquids. It has the proven long-life and high-strength qualities inherent in pipe produced centrifugally in accordance with AWWA C151. In addition, this significant AMERICAN development, a dependable, single gasket, push-on type joint meeting the requirements of AWWA C111, affords the customer lower joint cost and time-saving advantages in installation.

Fastite joint pipe provides exceptional strength and flexibility and has been widely accepted by engineers, contractors and utility officials since the 1950s. For added flexibility during construction, and for possible elimination of bends, a liberal 5° allowable deflection is standard in all sizes through 30", offering 21" offset in a 20’ length of pipe. Liberal deflection can also be provided in larger diameter pipe with standard and special Fastite deflection bells.

The patented AMERICAN Fastite joint embodies many advanced design features and is rated for a water working pressure of 350 psi. For specific conditions, ductile iron piping with this joint has been approved for higher pressure conditions. The socket, which is scientifically designed with two gasket recesses and a dividing buttress, is manufactured to close tolerances so that the gasket is self-centered, securely confined, and firmly compressed for a permanent, tight, trouble-free joint. The Fastite joint seal, bubble-tight under vacuum and external pressure, becomes even tighter with the application of internal pressure due to a specially designed wedging surface in the socket.

The Fastite joint pipe bell opening is slightly tapered to provide easy entry of the pipe end; the flared socket design permits liberal joint deflection. The plain end of the pipe is tapered or rounded to facilitate entry into the bell and self-centering in the gasket. On pipe cut in the field, the plain end can be easily beveled and smoothed by the use of a portable grinding wheel or other suitable apparatus. A stripe is painted on the plain end of AMERICAN Fastite joint pipe to provide a visual means of checking the joint alignment and to assure proper insertion.

Product Description

The AMERICAN mechanical joint, furnished in pipe sizes 4" to 12" and in fitting sizes 4" to 48", is a flexible stuffing box type connection used primarily in underground service.

The AMERICAN mechanical joint was developed by the American Cast Iron Pipe Company and first marketed in 1929. Since that time, millions of feet of AMERICAN pipe equipped with this joint have been installed to give dependable service across the nation and in many foreign countries. The joint is designed with a stuffing box into which a rubber gasket is compressed by a ductile iron gland drawn up with low-alloy steel bolts. It affords liberal deflection before joint compression and allows expansion and contraction of the line without leakage. It is rated for a water working pressure of up to 350 psi.

Originally designed to meet the rigid requirements of the gas industry for a pressure-tight joint, the AMERICAN mechanical joint was instrumental in starting a nationwide trend toward rubber-packed joints for water service as well as gas service. Its design was widely accepted and it soon became the standard joint of the iron pipe industry.

The popularity of the AMERICAN mechanical joint among utility officials, contractors and engineers steadily increased until the majority of cast iron piping furnished for gas, water, sewage and other services was equipped with this joint. However, push-on joint pipes, which are less labor intensive and compatible with push-on or mechanical joint fittings, currently make up the vast majority of ductile iron pipelines being installed for underground service. Mechanical joint pipe is now used to a much lesser extent.

The AMERICAN mechanical joint meets the requirements of ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10 and ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11.

AMERICAN ductile iron mechanical joint pipe is centrifugally cast in nominal 20' laying lengths under rigid production and quality control procedures in accordance with ANSI/AWWA Standards. AMERICAN mechanical joint ductile iron pipe is produced in 4"-12" sizes and in special thickness class 53 only.

The AMERICAN mechanical joint provides easy installation under the most adverse conditions. Plain rubber gaskets of SBR are normally used for water and domestic sewage service. Fabric tipped plain rubber gaskets are available, as well as other special gaskets such as oil-resistant rubber. Plain rubber gaskets or tipped gaskets are used for air or liquid temperatures up to 120°F. For applications involving temperatures in excess of 120°F, or for other special service applications, and for installations in contaminated soils where permeation through gaskets might be a concern, consult AMERICAN for recommendations. See Table No. 2-6.

Standard joint accessories furnished with mechanical joint pipe and fittings include ductile iron glands, low-alloy steel tee head bolts with hex nuts and plain rubber gaskets.

Product Description

AMERICAN Fastite joint push-bar pipe, furnished in sizes 4" through 64", allows the AMERICAN Fastite joint to be used in trenchless installations using direct jacking or pushing (including high load installations such as microtunneling and some pipe-bursting applications).

Fastite push-bar pipe employs an economical adaptation of the premier AMERICAN Fastite joint to transfer jacking loads from the pipe barrel directly to the face of the bell. It consists of a high-strength alloy steel ring - the "push-bar" - shop welded to the standard Fastite pipe spigot. This ring is made of the same material that has been used successfully in AMERICAN's Lok-Ring and other restrained joints since 1967. A cushioning compression ring, made of compressible wood products, fits between the push-bar and the pipe bell for added assurance of load distribution. The pipe comes in standard 20’ or less nominal laying lengths and carries the standard Fastite joint pressure ratings.

During installation, Fastite joint push-bar pipe is jacked or pushed with the spigots ahead. This allows for any debris remaining from the pipe bursting or pipe jacking operation to flow smoothly over the bell of the Fastite joint.

Product Description

The AMERICAN Fastite joint is a flexible, rubber ring compression-type joint used extensively in underground service for water, sewage or other liquids. It has the proven long-life and high-strength qualities inherent in joints produced in accordance with AWWA C111 and pipe produced centrifugally in accordance with AWWA C151.

The patented AMERICAN Fastite joint socket, which is scientifically designed with two gasket recesses and a dividing buttress, is manufactured to close tolerances so that the gasket is self-centered, securely confined, and firmly compressed for a permanent, tight, trouble-free joint. The Fastite joint seal, bubble-tight under vacuum and external pressure, becomes even tighter with the application of internal pressure due to a specially designed wedging surface in the socket.

The Fastite joint pipe bell opening is slightly tapered to provide easy entry of the pipe end; the flared socket design permits liberal joint deflection. The plain end of the pipe is tapered or rounded to facilitate entry into the bell and self-centering in the gasket. On pipe cut in the field, the plain end can be easily beveled and smoothed by the use of a portable grinding wheel or other suitable apparatus. A stripe is painted on the plain end of AMERICAN Fastite joint pipe to provide a visual means of checking the joint alignment and to assure proper insertion.

For piping installations that require restraint, AMERICAN Fast-Grip gaskets have been proven as a superior field-adaptable method of restraining 4" to 30" ductile iron pipe or fittings. The Fast-Grip gasket has the same basic shape as AMERICAN's Fastite gasket, so it can be used in any 4" to 30" standard Fastite pipe or fitting socket. The gasket rubber is standard SBR and meets all the material requirements of ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11.

The restraint provided by the patented AMERICAN Fast-Grip gasket is due to the development of wedging action between pairs of high-strength stainless steel elements spaced around the gasket. The outer metal element acts as a bearing member for the wedge-shaped inner element, which has sharp teeth on its inner surface for gripping the spigot.

Because of the wedging design utilized, the force between the spigot and the socket of the joint is essentially constant at any given pressure thrust regardless of the "tightness" or "looseness" of the joint fit or the joint deflection.

Fast-Grip gaskets are suitable for an allowable working pressure of 350 psi for 4"-18" pipe and 250 psi for 20" and 24" sizes. The 30" size is suitable for a 150 psi working pressure.

Product Description

Combining the sealing features of the time-proven Fastite joint and a boltless restrained connection, AMERICAN Flex-Ring joint ductile iron pipe provides flexible, easily assembled, positive restraint against endwise separation due to thrust.

Centrifugally cast for piping water, sewage and other liquids, Flex-Ring joint pipe may also be used in trenchless applications such as horizontal directional drilling and pipe bursting. With spigot ahead, the low-profile Flex-Ring bell assembles quickly and offers a smooth transition during pipe pull-back. AMERICAN offers a Flex-Ring pulling bell assembly specifically designed for this installation method.

Flexible restraint for 4" through 12" sizes is provided by a beveled, welded-on ductile iron retainer ring plus a ductile iron split flex-ring assembled behind the retainer ring. After the plain end of the pipe is assembled into the Flex-Ring bell, the split Flex-Ring is inserted and springs into the socket locking groove. The Flex-Ring is securely positioned behind the welded-on retainer ring and in the socket locking groove on the inside of the pipe bell.

For 14" though 48" sizes, restraint is provided by a shop-applied weld bead and a rubber-backed ring containing yellow painted ductile iron segments. As the plain end of the pipe is fully assembled into the bell, the ductile iron segments automatically close on the pipe behind the weld bead. The enclosure of the segments between the weld bead, spigot and the sloped inner lip of the bell provides the flexible restraint.

The Flex-Ring joint's liberal deflection allowance facilitates installation, decreases the number of necessary fittings and accommodates settlement.

The Flex-Ring joint is UL Listed and FM Approved in sizes 4" through 12" in all pressure classes and special thickness classes of ductile iron pipe. Fittings for use with 16"- 48" Flex-Ring pipe are ductile iron and meet or exceed the applicable performance and manufacturing requirements of ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10 or ANSI/AWWA C153/A21.53. Fittings in these sizes are also available in both bell-bell and bell-Flex-Ring spigot configurations for installation versatility and economy.

The only joint components needed to assemble the Flex-Ring Joint are a gasket and a single ring. No loose lugs, heavy wedges or rubber tubes are necessary. Also, there is no need to orient bells to ensure proper installation, although for convenience most installers orient the split locking ring ends in sizes 4" through 12" away from the very bottom of the joints.

Flex-Rings, Flex-Ring segments and retainer rings are manufactured of ductile iron compatible with pipe. Welds and weld beads (if used) are nickel-iron, proven desirably cathodic to the ductile iron pipe, and welding is performed using welders qualified to produce high-quality, dependable welds.

Field closures or other restraint can normally be securely made by using AMERICAN's Fast-Grip gasket, available in 4" through 30" sizes. The Fast-Grip gasket restraint closure is UL Listed and FM Approved for use in Flex-Ring bells in 4" to 16" sizes. Field closures or other restraint in 14" to 36" sizes can also be made in Flex-Ring bells only by using AMERICAN's Field Flex-Ring.

Product Description

The AMERICAN Field Flex-Ring with black-toothed gripping segments is an integral part of the AMERICAN Flex-Ring joint restraint system. The AMERICAN Field Flex-Ring method of restraining AMERICAN 14" to 36" ductile iron Flex- Ring pipe and fittings is an easy, totally boltless and glandless way of restraining field connections, which also does not require a factory or field weldment. Where field cuts are anticipated, the Field Flex-Ring may be used to restrain joints with any suitable ductile iron plain end or cut pipe in lieu of a standard Flex-Ring joint spigot with a factory welded-on bead.

The patented AMERICAN Field Flex-Ring is designed to restrain joints using Flex-Ring sockets with the same allowable working pressures and deflection capabilities as the standard Flex-Ring joint. Field Flex-Rings may be used with any standard pressure class of ductile iron pipe with an allowable working pressure equal to that of the pipe class, or a maximum of 350 psi in the 14" to 24" sizes and 250 psi in the 30" and 36" sizes. Flex-Ring fittings are manufactured per ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10 or ANSI/AWWA C153/A21.53.

Restrained joints using Field Flex-Ring have been thoroughly factory tested to withstand dead-end thrust resulting from more than twice the rated working pressure. The restraint is provided by the wedging action of heat-treated high-strength ductile iron segments. The segments have a wedge-shaped cross-section with gripping teeth on the inner surface. The ductile iron segments are held in the proper position for assembly by a rubber backing ring. This rubber backing ring is compressed during assembly to ensure that the restraining segments are held firmly in place against the socket wedging surface and spigot. The positioning and compressive force exerted by the backing ring on the restraining segments result in dependable gripping of the spigot when thrust is applied.

The rubber backing ring for the Field Flex-Ring does not perform any sealing function for the joint. A separate, standard Fastite gasket is employed in the joint for this purpose. The backing ring is made of gasket-quality SBR rubber that meets all the material requirements of ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11, Rubber-Gasketed Joints for Ductile-Iron Pressure Pipe and Fittings.

Product Description

The AMERICAN Lok-Ring joint is a restrained joint that utilizes the sealing features of the time-proven AMERICAN Fastite joint. It is an essentially boltless, flexible restrained connection that provides an easily assembled positive restraint against endwise separation due to thrust resulting from internal pressure or external forces. Only a minimal amount of time is required to complete the Lok-Ring assembly, or disassembly if necessary.

The patented AMERICAN Lok-Ring joint is designed for working pressures up to 250 psi for sizes 54" through 64". If higher pressure ratings are needed, contact AMERICAN. The Lok-Ring joint can be used with any lesser pressure class of ductile iron pipe, with the maximum operating pressure rating of the joint limited in such cases to that of the pipe. An alloy steel welded-on retainer ring and a split lok-ring, assembled behind the retainer ring, provide the means of restraint. The split lok-ring is held "snug" and constricted against the pipe OD for assembly of the AMERICAN Fastite portion of the joint. After the plain end of the pipe is assembled into the Lok-Ring bell, the lok-ring is released, permitting it to expand. The lok-ring is thus securely positioned behind the welded-on retainer ring and in the socket locking groove on the ID of the Lok-Ring bell. This locks the joint.

The lok-ring, welded retainer ring and all parts of the closure-spreader mechanism are all constructed of corrosion-resistant, high-strength, low-alloy (HSLA) steel. This is the same type of steel specified for bolting material per ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11, and it has been used successfully in several AMERICAN restrained joint constructions for approximately 40 years. The weld is aluminum bronze, and both the weld and ring are cathodic to – and thus protected by – the greater mass of the ductile iron pipe. Welding is performed using welders qualified to produce high-quality, dependable welds.

The AMERICAN Lok-Ring joint utilizes standard Fastite gaskets and lubricant, and, like the Fastite joint, the Lok-Ring joint is designed to permit deflection in order to facilitate installation and accommodate settlement. It is noted that rotation of the lok-ring under great loads helps to distribute the forces substantially around and between the bell and spigot members.

AMERICAN Lok-Ring Pipe is ductile iron, grade 60-42-10, manufactured and tested in accordance with AWWA C151. It is normally furnished standard asphaltic-coated outside and cement-lined inside in accordance with AWWA C104. When specified, other special linings can be furnished. Fittings are available in both bell-bell and bell-plain end configurations for installation versatility and economy.

Product Description

AMERICAN produces 4" through 64" ductile iron flanged pipe in accordance with AWWA C115. The maximum length of flanged pipe is up to 20’0", depending on diameter. Flanges generally are threaded as per C115. Any configurations requiring static castings are in accordance with applicable requirements of AWWA C110.

Flanged pipe is generally specified for aboveground service for water, wastewater, air, oil and other liquids where rigid, restrained joints are needed. It is widely used in water and wastewater treatment plants, in industrial piping systems, and for other interior piping as well as for exterior applications such as bridge and other elevated crossings.

Pipe may be furnished with one end flanged and the other with virtually any AMERICAN joint as may be required.

The underground use of the flanged joint is generally not recommended due to the rigidity of the joint and as noted in appendices of appropriate ANSI/AWWA standards.

Flanged pipe is rated for a maximum working pressure of at least 250 psi. If higher ratings are needed, consult AMERICAN and we will evaluate the application and use of Toruseal gaskets. AWWA C110 and C115 flanges are flat-faced. ANSI B16.1 Class 250 flanges are also rated for maximum water working pressure of at least 250 psi. The flanges faced and drilled per ANSI B16.1 Class 250 flanges are raised-face and have a different bolt circle. Be careful when specifying or ordering those. You are invited to consult AMERICAN.

Coatings and Linings

Since most flanged pipe is in an exposed environment, the usual outside shop coating is Wasser FerroClad primer. Most all AMERICAN linings, including cement per AWWA C104, are available for flanged pipe. A rust-preventive coating is applied to the machined faces of the flanges, and this coating may be removed prior to installation.

Pipe Barrel and Flanges

Ductile iron pipe barrels conform to the requirements of AWWA C151. All flanges furnished by AMERICAN are ductile iron and in accordance with AWWA C115. AMERICAN recommends only ductile iron flanges for strength and safety, although AWWA C115 currently allows both ductile iron and gray iron flanges.

Pipe barrels and flanges have tapered pipe threads (NPT) in accordance with ANSI B2.1 adapted to the ductile iron pipe outside diameters. The flange is threaded onto the pipe and machine-tightened until the pipe barrel extends through the face of the flange; it is then machined to give a flush finish of the barrel and flange and to ensure that the flange face is perpendicular to the axis of the pipe. The flange is designed so that a shroud substantially covers the working threads of the pipe for thread protection. Prior to assembly of the flange on the pipe, a commercial-grade thread compound is applied to the threads.

AMERICAN flanged pipe is shop-fabricated, and threading at the job site is not recommended. Flanges furnished on pipe are not interchangeable in the field and generally cannot be removed after fabrication without damage. If installation conditions require assembly of the flange, it may be factory-assembled to a "hand-tight" condition. This permits removal and re-assembly in the field, at which time suitable thread compound must be used. "Hand-tight" flanges should be limited to 16" and smaller sizes because of the difficulty in properly tightening larger flanges.

Joint Material

With the exception of AMERICAN Toruseal gaskets recommended for superior performance, flanged joint materials are not normally furnished. See AMERICAN Toruseal Gaskets.

AMERICAN Toruseal Flange Gasket

The AMERICAN Toruseal flange gasket is available for improved joint performance. It is vastly superior to conventional full-face or ring gaskets. Although recommended for all normal water and sewer service, it especially must be used in demanding services such as very large diameter flanged piping, specially designed long-span installations, or with any underground flanges that could be subjected to undesirable beam loading. Toruseal gaskets are normally furnished of high-quality molded black SBR rubber with required properties per ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11. Standard Toruseal gaskets are ANSI/NSF Standard 61 certified for contact with potable water. Other type rubber is available on special order.

Since flanged bolts are not generally furnished by AMERICAN, the following is given for information only.

Bolts and Nuts

See Bolts, Nuts and Studs for size, length and number of bolts and nuts. Bolts are specified in ANSI B18.2.1, and nuts are specified in ANSI B18.2.2. Bolts and nuts of low-carbon steel conforming to ASTM A307 are specified in the Appendix of AWWA C110 and C115 for flanged pipe when rubber gaskets are used. Nuts of regular or heavy hex design are used according to customer specifications. Also, per the Appendix of AWWA C110 and C115, high-strength bolts should not be used when a gray iron flange is involved in the connection.

Product Description

The Mechanical Joint (MJ) Coupled Joint offers a method of providing joint restraint with a standard mechanical joint socket of a pipe, fitting, valve or other product. It is available in sizes 4" through 12" with a pressure rating of 350 psi and deflection capability up to 2 1/2°, and in 14" through 48" with a pressure rating of 250 psi intended for installation in essentially straight alignment. Check AMERICAN if larger sizes or greater deflections are desired. The MJ Coupled Joint is commonly used as a method of joint restraint for mechanical joint all-bell fittings and especially to restrain MJ valves.

The joint material consists of a standard mechanical joint gasket and a standard ductile iron joint gland. The restraint gland is ductile iron and is factory assembled on the pipe behind a welded-on 1/2" square alloy steel retaining ring. Coupling nuts, studs, tee-head bolts and nuts, and retaining ring are all alloy steel. Tee-head bolts are special-length bolts.

Note: It is sometimes possible to provide for field-cutting and positive, even "drop-in" field-adaptable restraint in restrained piping areas by using modified MJ Coupled joints where the weld ring and restraint gland are intentionally moved farther away from the joint, and the standard short studs of the joint are replaced by longer threaded rods in the field. Threaded rods, of course, can also be cut to suit in the field. Similar effect can also be accomplished utilizing standard fabricated, stuffing-box couplings and similarly modified "Coupling Gland Ends." Contact AMERICAN for additional information on this.

Product Description

AMERICAN Flex-Lok® Pipe incorporates a very flexible ball-and-socket type joint for use in such installations as subaqueous pipeline construction. The provision for significant changes in alignment, with available joint deflections of 25° for sizes 4”-12” and 15° for sizes 14”-60” in any direction, and the rugged features of AMERICAN Flex-Lok Pipe make it especially adaptable to the most difficult installations. This rugged joint configuration has an excellent record of performance, and under some of the toughest installation conditions, it has provided long life and trouble-free service. Economy and dependability have been proven in many installations under widely varying conditions.

AMERICAN Flex-Lok Boltless Ball Joint Pipe — manufactured in 4" - 60" sizes — is a rugged, boltless, flexible joint pipe designed and manufactured to assure the greatest economy in installation with maximum performance and reliability. This ductile iron pipe meets all applicable requirements of AWWA C151 and is designed to withstand severe installation and service conditions encountered in river crossings, treated wastewater outfall lines, water supply intakes, swamps, floodlands and rugged terrain where significant joint deflection may be required.

AMERICAN Flex-Lok Boltless Ball Joint Pipe provides variable deflection up to at least 15°, and the joint may be deflected to metal binding position at maximum deflection without harm to the pipe or joint components. This is a result of the unique design and functionality of the pipe and joint components. In sizes 4”-12”, the configuration incorporates the additional flexible restraint provided by AMERICAN’s Flex-Ring joint, which cumulatively results in greater joint deflection capabilities, up to 25°.

Spherical Socket

The spherical socket of the AMERICAN Flex-Lok joint is cast of ductile iron and is accurately machined to accommodate the ball of the adjoining pipe. The thick wall and bell section provides superior strength to minimize the stresses resulting from installation and service conditions.

The Flex-Lok joint gasket recess in the socket is designed and manufactured to provide easy insertion and positive seating of the gasket to avoid displacement during assembly and for constant compression of the gasket through the entire range of deflection of the assembled joint.

Spherical Ball

The ball end of the AMERICAN Flex-Lok joint is accurately machined to fit into the adjoining pipe socket and to provide constant compression of the gasket through the entire range of deflection of the assembled joint.

The inside surface of the ball is shaped so that the waterway will not be significantly obstructed at any angle of joint deflection.

Flex-Lok Gasket

The AMERICAN Flex-Lok joint uses the basic dual hardness gasket design of the AMERICAN Fastite joint that has been proven with millions of joints over approximately 55 years. Designed to provide maximum sealability, the Flex-Lok gasket is manufactured to AMERICAN’s rigid specification to assure controlled dimensional and material properties.

The snug fit of the gasket in the socket cavity, the design of the socket buttress and the hard section of the gasket act to restrain the gasket from dislodging during assembly.

Locking Systems

Two types of locking systems are used to prevent longitudinal joint separation of the AMERICAN Flex-Lok joint, depending on pipe size. In the 4”-24” sizes, the locking system employs a substantial external locking ductile iron gland and sizes 4”-12” also use the proven positive joint restraint system of the Flex-Ring joint. Both the spherical socket component and spherical ball component of the Flex-Lok joint in this size range have a Flex-Ring joint that is preassembled at AMERICAN. For 30”- 60” sizes, the joint is restrained with a ductile iron retainer ring fitted into a mating groove inside the heavy-section bell.

4"-24" Flex-Lok Pipe Joint

The locking gland of the 4”-24” AMERICAN Flex-Lok joint is cast of ductile iron. The gland has internal lugs that interlock with external lugs on the bell.

The lugs on the gland are passed between and beyond the lugs on the bell periphery, and the gland is then rotated to lock the joint and prevent separation.

All 4”-24” AMERICAN Flex-Lok Ball Joint Pipe is prepared for shipment to the job site with the locking gland strapped to the ball. These straps must be removed to free the gland for assembly. The 4”-12” configuration has a preassembled Flex-Ring joint both directly adjacent to the spherical socket and spherical ball. The locking gland is also shipped strapped to the ball.

A steel wedge with a welded-on threaded stud is provided for each 4”-24” AMERICAN Flex-Lok joint. One wedge is placed into the space between two lugs and bolted into position. This wedge provides a positive lock to prevent gland rotation after assembly.

30"-60" Flex-Lok Pipe Joint

A split retainer ring manufactured of ductile iron is fitted into a mating groove inside the heavy bell section, providing restraint against longitudinal joint separation in the 30”-60” sizes. This ring is shipped strapped to the ball. These straps must be removed to free the ring for assembly. After the ring is fitted into the groove inside the bell, a locking clip, held in place by a stainless steel spring, is inserted into the space between the ends of the ring to securely lock it into the groove.

Joint Lubricant

Special AMERICAN Joint Lubricant for underwater installation is furnished with each order to provide ample lubrication for assembly and joint flexing. This special lubricant is different from regular Fastite lubricant and is insoluble, non-toxic, will impart no taste or odor to the conveyed liquid and will not have a deleterious effect on the rubber gasket.

AMERICAN Flex-Lok Ball Joint Pipe is centrifugally cast in laying lengths shown under Standard Dimensions with the same standard outside diameters as AMERICAN Fastite or Mechanical Joint Pipe, thus simplifying tie-in connections by allowing the use of standard fittings.

AMERICAN Flex-Lok Ball Joint Pipe may be furnished with any of the coatings and linings described in Section 11. Unless otherwise specified, the pipe is normally furnished with an asphaltic coating on the exterior and with the interior cement lined per AWWA C104.

Product Description

The AMERICAN grooved joint, furnished in sizes 4" to 36", and the AMERICAN shouldered joint, furnished in sizes 18" to 64", are fabricated joints most often used in plant piping installations.

These joints are sometimes alternatives to the flanged joint, and they are suitable for all exposed interior applications, such as those found in treatment plants and pump stations.

Both joints meet all applicable requirements of AWWA C606.

Available in both flexible and rigid designs, grooved and shouldered joints offer quick assembly. If a field-grooving machine is available, the field adaptability of grooved pipe may be advantageous.

Product Description

One method of restraining a pipeline is to provide a welded-on thrust collar or other dependable anchorage means on one or both sides of the point requiring restraint and to use concrete poured around the collar for support against undisturbed soil surrounding the pipe.

At a bend, the fitting and pipe ends would have to be of a restrained type, adequate to withstand total thrust involved. The required number of thrust collars would be dependent on the magnitude of the thrust force to be restrained and the allowable load per collar.

Thrust collars are also used in lieu of water stops on fabricated wall pipe for installation in load-bearing walls to resist thrust caused by internal pressure.

Product Description

Flanges are manufactured from ASTM A36 steel. Holes are drilled and tapped to mate with AWWA C110/C115 flanges on one side and ANSI/ASME B16.1 Class 250 flanges on the opposite, or other side. Holes are equally spaced straddling the centerline.

Product Description

AMERICAN regularly furnishes pipe with welded-on outlets for proven effectiveness and simplicity in layout and installation. Outlets can readily be located at variable positions along the pipeline, and rotation1 of the pipe before it is assembled in the line can often position the outlet at any desired angle. This section provides detailed tabular data for 90° lateral and tangential welded-on outlets. Lateral outlets from 45°–90° in 15° increments from the parent pipe axis are also available as standard in some sizes with some additional outlet size restrictions. Consult AMERICAN for details.

The outlets are fabricated from centrifugally cast ductile iron pipe, manufactured and tested in accordance with ANSI/AWWA C151/A21.51. They may be furnished with any of AMERICAN’s bell ends, such as Fastite, mechanical joint, Flex-Ring or Lok-Ring. They also can be furnished with plain ends. The parent pipe also can be furnished with any type of joints.

This is a shop-fabricated product and is not intended for field fabrication. Welded-on outlets for ductile pipe are produced with qualified procedures and welders as per guidelines contained in ANSI/AWS D11.2, Guide for Welding Iron Castings. Joint materials are furnished with Fastite, mechanical, Flex-Ring and Lok-Ring bells. Parent and outlet pipe are normally furnished cement-lined in accordance with ANSI/AWWA C104/A21.4. Consult AMERICAN if other ends or linings other than cement are desired.

Product Description

Centrifugally cast wall pipe is manufactured for use in piping water through walls in water treatment plants and pump stations.

All AMERICAN fabricated wall pipe uses ductile iron components in combination with the following: cast or threaded on mechanical joint bells (can be tapped for studs), flanges (can be tapped for studs) and welded-on collars.

Wall pipe is normally fabricated of special thickness class 53 ductile iron pipe, but it may be furnished with minimum classes unless threaded flanges or threaded mechanical joint bells are included or unless specified otherwise.

Wall pipes with centrifugally cast mechanical joint bells will be provided instead with heavy-duty steel key locking thread inserts to accept threaded studs.

Flanges and mechanical joint bells of minimum-length pieces should normally be specified by the purchaser as “tapped for studs” to enable assembly of joints flush with the wall face.

Minimum-length pipes with plain ends in many cases do not allow enough room between the plain end and the collar to assemble joints. Consult AMERICAN for plain end joint assembly needs, which normally require longer pipes.

Product Description

AMERICAN furnishes a line of 16"-48" Flex-Ring fittings that meet the applicable requirements of AWWA C110 or C153, depending on diameter and configuration. These fittings employ the standard Fastite or Fast-Grip gasket seal, and the joints meet the applicable requirements of AWWA C111. Many of these fittings are not specifically listed in the AWWA standards because of joints, outlets or other variations, and as such are designated as “AMERICAN Standard.”

Flex-Ring fittings are boltless and use the standard Fastite gasket for joint sealing. Additionally, field-adaptable joint restraint is available for 14"-36" Flex-Ring pipe or fittings by use of AMERICAN’s Field Flex-Rings.

Flex-Ring fittings are furnished of only ductile iron. They are normally furnished complete with standard Fastite plain rubber gaskets and a sufficient supply of Fastite joint lubricant.

Flex-Ring fittings are normally furnished with standard cement lining in accordance with AWWA C104 and with a standard asphaltic coating on the outside. For special conditions, other types of coatings and linings may be available.

Product Description

AMERICAN furnishes a line of 54"-64" Lok-Ring fittings that meet the applicable requirements of AWWA C110 or C153, depending on diameter and configuration. These fittings employ the standard Fastite seal, and the joints meet the applicable requirements of AWWA C111. Many of these fittings are not specifically listed in the AWWA standards because of joints, outlets or other variations, and as such are designated as “AMERICAN Standard.”

Lok-Ring fittings are furnished of only ductile iron. They are furnished complete with standard Fastite plain rubber gaskets and a sufficient supply of Fastite joint lubricant.

Lok-Ring fittings are normally furnished with standard cement lining in accordance with AWWA C104 and with a standard asphaltic coating on the outside. For special conditions, other types of coatings and linings may be available.

Product Description

Cement-mortar lining for ductile iron pipe and fittings for water service is in accordance with ANSI/AWWA C104/A21.4.

Cement-lined pipe is also furnished for some sewage service and a number of other applications. In fact, most pipe furnished is cement lined, providing improved flow characteristics and the required protection against tuberculation. The cement lining is satisfactory for temperatures up to 212° F. If standard asphaltic coating is furnished, the lining is only adequate for temperatures up to 150° F. For other services consult AMERICAN regarding temperature limitations of cement lining.

The first recorded installation of cement-lined gray iron pipe was in 1922 at Charleston, S.C. This lining was developed by the Charleston Commission of Public Works in cooperation with American Cast Iron Pipe Company. Since this beginning, AMERICAN and the entire iron pipe industry have furnished most pipe with cement lining. The lining is applied centrifugally with the speed of rotation designed to produce a smooth waterway surface, while retaining enough moisture for proper curing. AMERICAN cement-lined pipe and fittings are listed by ANSI/NSF Standard 61 for potable water contact.

Flow tests on cement-lined pipe under varying service conditions have established that the Hazen-Williams flow coefficient remains as expected at about 140, and flow tests on cement-lined, large-diameter AMERICAN ductile iron pipe have confirmed flow coefficients much higher than 140.

Product Description

AMERICAN can provide special cement linings when required. These include characteristics of thickness, density, cement type, and other variables, including no asphaltic seal coat. Please consult AMERICAN for more information.

Product Description

Protecto 401–lined ductile iron pipe and fittings provide the maximum protection and the strength necessary to do the job in tough sewer pipe applications. Protecto 401 has been successfully used in thousands of sanitary sewer applications and has been proven with both laboratory testing and years of actual sewer service on all sizes of ductile iron pipe and fittings.

The development of Protecto 401 was begun in 1979 by Induron Protective Coatings]. The first Protecto 401–lined ductile iron sewer pipe was lined and placed in service in 1981. Since then, thousands of miles of ductile iron sewer pipe have been lined with Protecto 401 with no reported lining failure.

Because Protecto 401 Ceramic Epoxy Lining was designed and is used as protection for ductile iron sanitary sewer pipe, it provides the reliability of cement mortar lining with the excellent corrosion protection of novalac epoxy. This concentration of effort has resulted in performance unparalleled by other linings.

Protecto 401 is intended for use in domestic sanitary sewage lines. Chemical injection for odor control may damage pipe, gaskets and/or protective linings and should be undertaken with extreme caution. Requests for industrial sewer applications of Protecto 401–lined ductile pipe and fittings should be made to an AMERICAN sales professional for individual recommendations.

Ductile iron pipe lined with Protecto 401 Ceramic Epoxy can only be pushed when using a restrained joint system that does not allow the spigot to contact the bell shoulder. The pipe may be pulled using restrained joint pipe or restraining gaskets as restraints. Restraining gaskets must never be pushed; nor should the pipe be homed all the way to the bell shoulder with or without restraining gaskets. Pushing or pulling ductile iron pipe lined with Protecto 401 Ceramic Epoxy using any other technique may damage the lining. Consult Induron’s brochure for product application concerning pushing or pulling operations.

For a more complete list of restrictions, warnings and instructions regarding long-term storage and pressure washing of ductile iron pipe lined with Protecto 401, please visit the Induron website.

Product Description

Pipe and fittings can be requested with special linings other than those listed on this website; i.e., glass lining, asphaltic lining, etc. Because of the variables and complexities involved in the selection of a proper lining for a given service, AMERICAN invites inquiries for technical assistance, availability and cost.

Product Description

Because some service applications may require unlined pipe and fittings, AMERICAN furnishes any of its products without lining when so specified at time of purchase. Consult AMERICAN if you feel this application pertains to your project.

Product Description

V-Bio, the latest advancement in corrosion control for ductile iron pipe, is an enhanced polyethylene encasement that targets anaerobic bacteria on the surface of the pipe and inhibits the formation of corrosion cells under the wrap.

Already known for its corrosion control properties, polyethylene encasement has been used to successfully protect cast and ductile iron pipe in aggressive environments since its first use in a water system in 1958. And now, with V-Bio, this wrap offers even greater protection of the industry’s most dependable, economic and long lasting pipe material.

Key facts about the V-Bio enhanced polyethylene encasement:

• Builds on a proven method of corrosion control — polyethylene encasement – that has been protecting iron pipe from aggressive soils since it was first installed in 1958.
• Represents a significant evolutionary advancement in corrosion protection for ductile iron pipe.
• Consists of three layers of co-extruded linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) film fused into one.
• Features an inside surface that is infused with a proprietary blend of an anti-microbial biocide to mitigate microbiologically influenced corrosion (“MIC”) and a volatile corrosion inhibitor (“VCI”) to control galvanic corrosion.
• Protects against corrosion without consuming or degrading the biocide or the corrosion inhibitor. The film’s enhanced properties will last over time.
• Meets all requirements of the American National Standards Institute and the American Water Works Association (ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5) standard for polyethylene encasement.
• The most advanced method of corrosion control.

For details about V-Bio enhanced polyethylene encasement, ductile iron pipe or the Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association visit: www.dipra.org/v-bio/

Product Description

In areas where severely aggressive soils are encountered, the use of a polyethylene tube or sheet encasement has been proven to provide highly effective, economical protection. The protection against corrosion provided by loose polyethylene is different in several ways and should not be confused with coatings applied directly to the barrel of the pipe. The most significant difference is its ability to protect without creation of concentration cells at holidays. Also, since the encasement is applied when the pipe is actually put in the ground, damage due to shipping, handling, etc., is minimized.

As water may be present in the soil around the pipe, water may also be present between the pipe and wrap. Water inside the polyethylene tubing initially bears some characteristics of the soil environment, and corrosion may start. But within a short period of time initial oxidation depletes the oxygen supply in the water, and other electrochemical corrosion reactions also quickly progress to completion. At this point a state of chemical equilibrium is reached and there is no corrosion.

Since the first field installation of polyethylene wrap on gray iron pipe in 1958, installations have been made in severely corrosive soils throughout the United States. The success of the polyethylene encasement procedure developed in the United States has been adopted by several other countries, and an International Standard for Polyethylene Sleeving (ISO-8180) has been developed.

Research by the Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association (DIPRA) at several severely corrosive test sites has verified that polyethylene encasement provides a high degree of protection and results in minimal and generally insignificant exterior surface corrosion of either ductile or gray iron pipe thus protected. These findings have been confirmed by the results of hundreds of investigations of field installations. See dipra.org for more information.

Field tests have also indicated that the dielectric capability of polyethylene provides shielding for ductile iron pipe against stray current at most levels encountered in the field.

Because polyethylene encasement is a passive method of protecting ductile iron pipe in aggressive soils, it can effect greater reliability and savings than cathodic protection systems, which require continual monitoring, maintenance and other operating expenses, as well as trained personnel. Cathodic protection systems can also cause collateral corrosion in some cases to nearby unprotected ferrous structures.

For protection in areas of severely aggressive soils, AWWA C105 covers materials and installation procedures for polyethylene encasement of underground installations of ductile iron piping for water and other liquids.

Polyethylene wrap in tube or sheet form for piping encasement is manufactured of virgin polyethylene material conforming to the requirements of ANSI/ASTM Standard Specification D1248. The specified minimum thickness for linear low-density polyethylene film is 0.008 inches (8 mils). The specified minimum thickness for high-density, cross-laminated polyethylene film is 0.004 inches (4 mils).

Material, required markings, and installation methods are all in accordance with the requirements of AWWA C105. This standard and more detailed publications by DIPRA regarding loose polyethylene encasement are available from AMERICAN.

Product Description

AMERICAN furnishes most pipe and fittings with an exterior asphaltic coating approximately 1 mil thick per AWWA C151 for ductile iron pipe, AWWA C115 for flanged pipe and AWWA C110 and C153 for fittings.

All across the United States ductile iron and gray iron pipe and fittings with this standard coating have provided trouble-free service for decades. Unless otherwise specified, an asphaltic coating is applied to the outside of all pipe and fittings manufactured by AMERICAN.

The asphaltic coating works in conjunction with manufacturing annealing scale to provide a barrier to corrosion. If soils are deemed to be corrosive to ductile iron pipe when evaluated in accordance with the Design Decision Model™ (DDM) or Appendix A of AWWA C105, then polyethylene wrap or other appropriate methods should be used.

Asphaltic coating is not compatible with most topcoats. In above-ground applications, both interior and exterior, AMERICAN recommends Wasser FerroClad moisture-cured urethane primer, which is well suited for most applications, including where the generic topcoats or end uses may not be known.

Product Description

This is a high-solids, chemical- and corrosion-resistant coating for protection against abrasion, moisture, corrosive fumes, chemical attack and immersion. For more information, contact AMERICAN.

Product Description

This is a fast-drying, lead- and chromate-free, corrosion-resistant primer formulated to accept a wide variety of topcoats. It is well suited for applications where the generic topcoats are unknown but its service is limited to atmospheric exposure. For more information, contact AMERICAN.

Product Description

This is a fast-drying, lead- and chromate-free, corrosion-resistant primer formulated to accept a wide variety of topcoats. It is well suited for applications where the generic topcoats are unknown but its service is limited to atmospheric exposure. For more information, contact AMERICAN.

Product Description

The Fastite joint sealing component – a molded synthetic rubber ring gasket of two hardnesses, shaped to fit the configuration of the gasket socket – is manufactured per all requirements of ANSI/AWWA C111/A21.11 and under AMERICAN’s own rigid specifications, assuring closely controlled dimensional and hardness properties. The smaller end of the gasket is of harder rubber, approximately 85 durometer hardness, which provides a strong shoulder for self-centering on the gasket buttress, a permanent seal against cold flow, and protection from deterioration. The larger end of the gasket is of softer rubber, approximately 65 durometer hardness, providing ease of assembly and positive sealing. The design assures effective sealing at low or high pressures and in straight or deflected joint alignment. It also eliminates any concerns of infiltration or root intrusion, and assures positive sealing against negative pressure, thus preventing gasket “pullout” should a vacuum be created in the line.

A taper on the inside of the gasket allows the entering pipe to locate and center on the hard section and reduces friction loads during subsequent assembly. The snug fit and the hard section of the gasket, in conjunction with the design of the buttress, act to restrain the gasket against dislodgment during assembly. Additional internal pressure results in increased tightness of the seal when pipe is either in straight alignment or deflected.

Product Description

American Fast-Grip gaskets have proven to be a superior field-adaptable method of restraining 4"-30" ductile iron pipe or fittings.

The restraint provided by the patented AMERICAN Fast-Grip gasket is due to the development of wedging action between pairs of high-strength stainless steel elements spaced around the gasket. The outer metal element, which has sharp teeth on its inner surface for gripping the spigot, acts as a bearing member for the wedge-shaped inner element.

Because of this wedging design, the force between the spigot and the socket of the joint is essentially constant at any given pressure thrust regardless of the “tightness” or “looseness” of the joint fit or the joint deflection.

The Fast-Grip gasket, which has the same basic shape as AMERICAN’s Fastite gasket, can be used in any 4"-30" standard Fastite pipe or fitting socket. It is UL Listed and FM Approved for use in Fastite or Flex-Ring sockets with Fastite plain ends in all sizes 4"-16". The UL Listing and FM Approval apply to all pressure classes and special thickness classes of ductile iron pipe.

In addition to the positive restraint achieved, Fast-Grip gaskets offer ergonomically friendly advantages compared to other restrained joints for fittings and pipe requiring bolts, lugs, segments, wrenches, etc. Joints can easily be assembled with current tools and methods used for many years in the assembly of standard Fastite joints.

Product Description

For improved joint performance, AMERICAN Toruseal flange gaskets are vastly superior to conventional full-face or ring gaskets. Although recommended for all normal water and sewer service, the Toruseal gasket especially must be used in demanding services such as very large diameter flanged piping, specially designed long-span installations (i.e., spans involving two or three lengths of pipe), or with any underground flanges that could be subjected to undesirable beam loading.

AMERICAN Toruseal gaskets meet the description of “specially designed gaskets” shown in the appendices of AWWA C110, C111, and C115, and “special gaskets” shown in the body of AWWA C111.

Toruseal gaskets are recommended for AWWA standard flanged joints in normal water and sewage service. The ANSI B16.21 standard specifies the inside of 3"–12" non-metallic full-face and ring gaskets to be greater (the same as standard steel pipe outside diameters) than nominal. Any flat gaskets used for ductile iron flanged pipe must have “nominal” inside diameters as shown in the appendix of ANSI/AWWA C115/A21.15, not the larger inside diameters per ANSI B16.21. The larger ID gaskets per ANSI B16.21 are not recommended by AMERICAN.

AMERICAN Toruseal gaskets are designed for use with standard flange bolts. Holes match AWWA C110, C111, and C115 flange drilling. They also match certain flange drilling classes of AWWA C207 and ANSI B16.1 and B16.42 flanges. Toruseal gaskets may be used with steel pipe flanges in the 14"-54" sizes in some cases. Consult AMERICAN for details, or when connecting to any flange configured differently than flanges per AWWA C110 or C115.

Product Description

AMERICAN innovation led to the development of the mechanical joint in 1921.

Plain rubber gaskets of SBR are normally used for water and domestic sewage service. Fabric-tipped plain rubber gaskets are available, as well as other special gaskets such as oil-resistant rubber.

Plain rubber gaskets or tipped gaskets are used for air or liquid temperatures up to 150° F. For applications involving temperatures in excess of 150° F, or for other special service applications, and for installations in contaminated soils where permeation through gaskets might be a concern, consult AMERICAN for recommendations.

Standard joint accessories furnished with mechanical joint pipe and fittings include ductile iron glands, low-alloy steel tee head bolts with hex nuts, and plain rubber gaskets. The cost of these accessories may or may not be included in the price of the pipe or fittings, so confirm with your AMERICAN representative.

Product Description

For cold climates where electrical thawing of service connections is required, metal contact strips are molded into the Fastite gasket, providing a “built-in” contact that will carry the necessary current between the socket and the pipe end. Under compression, the rubber gasket forces the contact strips firmly against the metal surfaces. This design assures an enclosed and protected contact that remains effective against expansion, contraction or future movement of the joint. Special preparation of the pipe sockets and plain ends is required when using conductive gaskets. Instructions are outlined on each can of AMERICAN Fastite joint lubricant. The Fastite joint conductive gasket is satisfactory for transmission of electrical current up to 600 amps.

Other types of joint bonding are used to provide electrical conductivity across joints for low voltage/current requirements applications.

A protective coating is applied to the sockets and beveled ends of Fastite conductive joint pipe prior to shipment to protect the gasket seating surfaces during transportation and storage prior to assembly.

Note: Fastite conductive gaskets should not be used with Fastite restrained plugs. Some sizes of Fastite pipes may not be suitable for use with conductive gaskets – please consult AMERICAN.