Safe-T-Seal – Pneumatic/Hydraulic Test Plugs
Q. Why do the GT Water Products, Safe-T-Seal pneumatic test plugs look different from other test plugs?
A. Our test plugs look different because we have a built-in pressure relief valve on the bottom of each test plug. This is a safety feature preventing the plug from exploding due to over-inflation.
Q. Your test plugs are called Pneumatic/Hydraulic. Why?
A. They are called pneumatic/hydraulic because our test plugs can be expanded by using air or water. This is a great convenience feature since air sources are not always readily available.
Q. How much head pressure do your test plugs hold?
A. Our test plugs are rated at holding 30 feet of head pressure, 14 PSIG. Always refer to our safety manual for pressure ratings.
Q. Why are your test plugs better than other test plugs?
A. There are several distinct reasons. Our test plugs are made in the USA using high quality GoodYear rubber. Every test plug is pressure tested before sold, they all have a pressure relief valve to protect against explosion due to over-inflation and all of our plugs fit multiple pipe sizes. In addition, each test plug has a 3’ pull strap keeping the user safely away from the danger zone when removing the test plug from the test pipe.
Q. What is the shelf life of a Safe-T-Seal test plug?
A. We offer a 1-year warranty on all of our test plugs from date of manufacture. If kept in controlled conditions, (out of direct sunlight for extended periods) the test plugs will remain in good condition.
Q. How do I determine what size test plug should be used?
A. Determine the ID (inside diameter) of the pipe that you wish to plug. Then choose the plug that matches the ID of the pipe for that application. All of our test plugs have multiple pipe size capability, be sure the plug you choose fits within those capabilities. When in doubt, call our customer service number at 800-862-5647.
Q. What is the difference between the long test plugs and the shorter test plugs?
A. Our long test plugs are designed to seal wye fittings while conducting a sewer or similar type test. They are unique in that they have a “dual deflation” feature designed into the plug. This feature causes the plug to deflate in two stages, meaning the pressure pipe will deflate first while the access pipe remains inflated, keeping the work area and user dry.
Q. What is the definition for feet of head?
A. Feet of head is the height of water over the centerline of the plug.
Q. Is there a formula used to calculate backpressure?
A. Backpressure is defined in PSI (pound per square inch) or feet of head.
- Simply read the gauge pressure for PSI.
- For feet of head, calculate height of water over the centerline of the plug.
Example; 100’ line at 1% slope with a 10’ manhole (100 x .01) + 10 = 11 feet of head.
Q. Why is it important to know pounds of force calculation?
A. This calculation is important to the end user and helps them understand the forces behind the plug so that they can decide the proper way to block the plug.