Pipe Joints and Coupling

The decision on which joining system to use is one of the most crucial steps in any pipeline network design. Our engineers can assist you in choosing the most optimal joining systems for your applications.

All coupling systems are hydro tested up to two times working pressure as well as a number of other inspections prior to release from the factory. The joints are designed to meet performance and service life longer than the pipes.

We offer two methods of joining pipes, unrestrained (flexible) joints and the restrained or cemented joints. The unrestrained joints are typically used with uniaxial pipes where only hoop pressure support is needed.

REKA coupling, our most popular flexible coupling system, is designed for underground applications. It takes less than ten minutes to install, making it perhaps one of the easiest joints to install in the field. It uses a gasket system with a service life of more than 75 years sitting in a precision-machined groove to seal the joint. All our REKA couplings can be shipped separately or installed on one end of the pipe.

FARATEC® bounded coupling systems have higher axial support compared to the flexible coupling systems. The epoxy glue used to glue the pipe and couplings create a joint resistant against the strongest forces. We have tested various adhesive bounded joints and cemented coupling systems in pressures of up to 120 bars without damage to the couplings.

We offer two types of flanges, fixed and loose. Both are designed to meet various standards including ANSI B16.5 Class 150 bolting. We also manufacture other bolting standards per application needs.

Mechanical coupling (not shown), a non-composite joining system, is also offered. This system uses a flexible steel coupling with rubber gaskets to form a proper seal. The coupling can be provided for different diameters less than 1000mm.

The joints offered are:

GRP REKA Coupling

REKA couplings allow angulation of up to 3˚ of the for axial pipe movement of the pipes making these couplings most suitable for erosive soil conditions and earthquake zones. The joints can be designed for pressures up to 32 bars.

Key-lock coupling

This is a flexible coupling system designed primarily for jacking pipes. It is similar to the REKA system with the added locking mechanism giving it additional strength.

Bell and Spigot

This coupling system uses a slightly conical pipe end, which is inserted in a sleeve with two bell ends. A two component adhesive bond then cements the connection.  The joint is completely rigid after the adhesive is cured.

Lamination (Butt and wrap joints)

The pipe ends are abraded and laminated with layers of chopped strand matt and woven roving glass fiber and resin. The lamination method is less expensive compared to other systems, however it is one of the most labor intensive coupling systems and requires specially trained personnel to perform it.

Glued Coupling

This coupling system uses a REKA like system with glue to allow for resistance against axial forces. The joint is sealed with two gaskets and epoxy adhesive glue.

Flange connection

Our flanges come with EPDM elastomeric flat gaskets for diameters of less than 1200mm and pressure requirements less than 10bars. We recommend O-ring gaskets placed in a machined groove on the face of the flange for applications requiring larger diameters or higher pressures.

Fittings

We custom manufacture required fittings to project needs with performance specifications exceeding those of the pipes.