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In seeking ways to take even greater advantage of the cost-reducing features of the Fastite® Joint, utility contractors have developed other methods of assembling this joint without special tools. The following methods are described for the information of the user, who may elect to use them at his discretion, keeping in mind that these methods may not be effective for all installations and under all field conditions.
| SPADE OR CROWBAR METHOD
This is applicable to the smaller sizes of ACIPCO Fastite Joint pipe, and consists of centering the lubricated end of the entering pipe in the gasket and then pushing against the bell face of the entering pipe with a spade or crowbar driven into the ground in front of the bell face. This method requires the trench bottom to be fairly firm soil. The method may not be effective in a rocky trench or with a trench that is soft, muddy, or sandy. A wooden block between the bell face and the pry bar may increase the leverage. Easier assembly is effected if the pipe is suspended an inch or so off the bottom of the trench. |
Spade or Crowbar Method |
SLING OR BACKHOE METHOD
This method is usually applicable to the intermediate and larger sizes of ACIPCO Fastite Joint pipe where the bar method might not be effective. It consists of centering the end of the entering pipe in the gasket as the pipe to be assembled is suspended from the backhoe. Then it can be pulled into the adjoining socket with the pipe sling by moving the backhoe arm toward the previously assembled pipe. In other instances, the pipe may be assembled by placing the backhoe bucket against the bell face of the entering pipe and pushing it into the socket. When pushing against the bell face, care should be taken to avoid very small contact areas and possible damage to the pipe bells or spigots. Wood cushions between the backhoe bucket and the pipe are particularly effective in preventing damage. |
Sling or Backhoe Method |
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