McElroy launches in-field joint tester

Global News

Publishing Date: 21 Dec 2011 12:07pm GMT
Author: Trenchless World

HDD Lining

Pipe fusion and equipment manufacturer McElroy has introduced the Guided Side-Bend Tester, designed to perform a qualitative test for ductility in fusion joints.

The compact test unit is designed to provide a quick, safe replacement for ‘bend back’ tests which have been performed in the field for many years. It places the entire wall thickness into tension and is claimed gives assurance of joint ductility. The company also said that using the equipment allows operators to perform a bend-back test on polyethylene pipes with wall thicknesses of 25-175mm.

Only a few common tools are required to conduct the process. The technique uses a planer to cut a test coupon that is then put into a hydraulically powered device. The testing device bends the coupon, putting strain on the fusion joint past the material's yield point. If no breaks or gaps are visible in the joint, the coupon and fusion joint have passed the test. No external power is required for the device.

Operators will need a saw, planer and calipers to perform testing with the tester, which can also be used alongside the company’s In-Field Tensile Tester.