When working with plumbing piping systems, there are various reasons to use a pipe plug: stopping the flow in a pipe
- bypassing the flow;
- conducting low-pressure air testing on a new pipeline before placing it into service;
- testing a pipeline already in service for leaks.
However, not all plumbing-pipe plugs are created equal. Understanding the differences between mechanical and pneumatic plugs is essential to deciding which is best for your application.
Let’s dive into the key differences and benefits of each type of plumbing-pipe plug.
Mechanical Plumbing Pipe Plugs
Uses: Most mechanical plugs are designed for blocking and are most commonly used in Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) systems.
How they work: Mechanical pipe plugs allow you to section off part of the pipe so that you can work or test the section without shutting off the rest of the system. They do not need to be inflated and are expanded to fit tightly within a pipe or open mechanically.
Most require only hand-tightening. But they can also be tightened and locked in place with a bolt or wing nut, which provides a leak-tight seal within the pipe. Once the plug is in place, you can pressurize the system to detect any leaks.
Benefits: Mechanical pipe plugs are smaller and lighter than inflatable plugs and don't require air to inflate or seal. They do not deflate over time, making them better for long-term applications.
Types: Cherne offers a broad selection of mechanical plumbing-pipe plugs tailored to different applications, providing durable solutions for both residential and commercial needs. Here's an overview of some key mechanical plumbing-pipe plugs:
- End-of-pipe Gripper® plugs can be used in applications including DWV testing and stack testing. They seal only at the end of a pipe and won't fall in.
- Inside-of-Pipe Gripper® plugs can be used in applications including DWV and stack testing. Their design allows the plug to be located inside the pipe.
- Econ-O-Grip® plugs >are a cost-effective solution for low-pressure blocking applications or for plugging open-ended pipe.
- Petro Econ-O-Grip® are cost-effective, chemical-resistant plugs for low-pressure blocking applications.
- Sure-Grip® can be installed without tools and is ideal for water and air testing plumbing systems or blocking stub-out lines as a temporary or permanent plug.
- Kwik ‘N Sure® plugs are designed for high-pressure applications, work in all types of pipe, and are ideal for plugging water line stub-outs.
- Schedule 40 Sure-Grip®plugs can be installed without tools and are ideal for water and air testing of plumbing systems or blocking stub-out lines as temporary or permanent plugs.
- Monitor Well Plugs feature a high-quality, petrochemical-resistant design to seal monitor wells and are sized to seal Schedule 40 piping.
- Hub-Fit Gripper® plugs are easy to install and ideal for use in hub fittings and bell-end pipes.
- Cherne® Mechanical Cleanout Plugsprovide quick and easy DWV stack testing through a mechanical, tool-free operation, eliminating backsplash draining. Featuring a two-stage locking mechanism that secures into test and drain positions, these mechanical cleanout plugs high test pressure up to 150 feet of head/65 psi (pounds per square inch). They also feature a durable, replaceable rubber pad, and a separate brass shut-off valve, which is available for purchase.
Pneumatic Plumbing Pipe Plugs
Uses: Pneumatic plugs can be used in smaller plumbing setups for blocking, bypassing, and leak tests, but are most commonly used in underground waterworks applications.
How they work: Pneumatic plumbing pipe plugs are inflated with air to create a seal. These plugs must be monitored carefully, as their inflation pressure needs adjustment every four hours during long-term use.
Types of Pneumatic Plumbing Plugs:
Designed for blocking, bypassing, and testing pipelines, Cherne's pneumatic plumbing-pipe plug selection offers a wide range of high-performance solutions for plumbing and waterworks professionals. Here’s an overview of some key options:
- Single-Size andMulti-SizeMuni-Ball® Plugs offer a full bypass, allowing testing and monitoring of piping systems. This makes them ideal for installing and repairing residential or commercial piping systems.
- Clean-Seal® Plugs eliminate test water backsplash when stack testing DWV plumbing systems. Simply thread them into a standard test tee, inflate the bladder, and run your test.
- Single-Size Plumbing Test-Balls® are expandable rubber test plugs designed to test DWV systems in every type of pipe. They utilize a standard tire air fitting for easy connections, and their inflatable design can be inserted through a test tee to seal out-of-round pipes and hard-to-access openings. These plumbing test plugs are available in various nominal sizes to accommodate your DWV testing needs.
- Long Test-Balls®are an extended version of the Test-Ball® designed for waste stack testing. They seal the rise and the run to perform tests and can also seal the wye to conduct sewer air tests.
- MS2 Long Test-Balls® plugs are designed for waste stack testing and can seal the wye to conduct sewer air tests. The plug works in multiple pipe diameters, and molded-in sealing ribs ensure a leak-free seal. Fills and deflates in stages to ensure the plug is not lost and to prevent water backsplash.
Important Safety Tips
Working with pipe plugs involves significant force, so safety is critical. Below are some important safety tips to keep in mind. However, be sure to review our safety page for complete instructions.
- Danger zone awareness: Never enter the danger zone while a plug is in use. The force behind a plug can be overwhelming.
- Prep before use: Inspect the pipe and plug for debris or wear, and select the correct plug size for your application.
- Monitor pressure: Ensure pneumatic plugs are inflated correctly and release back pressure before removing them.
- Maintenance: Clean plugs after each use and store them in a dry place, inspecting for damage before reuse.
Cherne Industries provides safety tags and instruction manuals with every plug. Make sure you and your crews are familiar with the equipment to ensure a safe and effective job.