Mechanical Joints: Why Are They Important for Ductile Iron Piping System?

Mechanical joints are one of the options that can be used for DI pipes. These joints contain four main components, including a gland, gasket, bolts, and nuts. They are offered in five popular types: push-on, restrained, ball and socket, and so on.

There are many properties that make mechanical joints superior to other DI alternatives. These DI joints are versatile, safe, flexible, leak- and corrosion-resistant. They are also easy to install, maintain, and repair. Keep reading this blog to gain more information and make a decision meeting your needs!

What Are Mechanical Joints for Ductile Iron Pipes?

There are many different joints used in ductile iron pipe systems. Mechanical joints are one of the most popular options, providing a high level of flexibility. َAccording to the US Pipe, these joints effectively attach DI pipes to each other and are widely used in various engineering projects. Due to their amazing applications, understanding the function and benefits of ductile iron pipe mechanical joints is necessary.

What Are the Components of DI Mechanical Joints?

To understand how these joints work in the ductile piping system, you need to familiarize yourself with their components. Mechanical joints have four main components that work together to prevent leakage. Each component plays an important role in the system and should be crafted with the highest quality materials.

• Gland: This metallic sleeve has compression performance. It is placed at the end of the ductile iron pipe fittings and puts needed pressure on the gasket. This pressure is necessary when the bolts get tightened to ensure proper sealing.
• Gasket: It’s one of the most important components for adequately handling DI pipes. Gaskets are placed in the mechanical joints and are ideally flexible. The shape of the gasket can change under pressure since they are usually made from rubber or elastomeric material.
• Nuts and Bolts: The gland should be drawn over the gasket so the DI pipe mechanical joint works well. That’s why nuts and bolts are used in the joint design to provide the required pressure for a tight seal.
• Follower Gland: This is an optional component that may not be found in some mechanical joints. It offers extra support and stability when the pipelines move. It is placed on the opposite side of the gasket from the gland for better control over the bell or socket.

All these components work together to make flawless mechanical joints used in pipeline systems. When the components are correctly positioned, DI joints can offer a safe connection and prevent leakage.

What Are the Advantages of Mechanical Joints in Piping Systems?

There are many benefits associated with mechanical joints. That’s why many DI suppliers choose these connections in their projects. Here at Yasmin Trading, our experts offer the best Ductile Iron Pipe fitting services. We are the leading supplier of DI pipes and construction joints all across the Middle East and Africa. Here is a list of primary benefits offered by mechanical joints.

Leak Resistance

The unique design of DI mechanical joints makes them an amazing seal. They prevent any possible leakage between ductile iron pipes and fittings.

Control

Mechanical joints offer a high level of restraint. They don’t allow pips to get separated or pulled out, making the system more reliable regarding sudden ground movements, external loads, and internal pressure.

Safety

Mechanical joints provide a secure and safe connection between different pieces of the piping system.

Flexibility

The most important thing about ductile iron mechanical joints is their flexibility. They can be easily aligned with different angles, contractions, and expansions of ductile iron pipes. This high level of flexibility can reduce the damaging pressure on ductile pipes and increase their lifespan.

Versatility

These joints are used with different types of pipes and materials. They are ideally versatile and can meet a variety of needs.

Corrosion Resistance

One of the most important challenges for iron ductile pipe systems is corrosion. Fortunately, mechanical joints made of iron and rubber solve this problem.

Easy Maintenance

It’s so easy to install and maintain mechanical joints in a piping system. They can be easily attached or detached to get cleaned or repaired.

Cost Efficiency

Buying DI pipe mechanical joints is an investment. The amazing advantages of these joints are that they pay you off over time and reduce the overall expenses of the project.

What Are Different Applications of Mechanical Joints?

As mentioned, these joints have many benefits, which is why they are utilized in different industries and projects. These joints have three main applications in ductile iron pipe systems.

• Sewer System: Mechanical joints are used in sewer systems due to their high level of leakage resistance. They ideally resist leakage and corrosion, which is a helpful property in sewer systems.
• Water Distribution System: These joints are primarily used in municipal water systems. They prevent any possible leakage through the pipes. Furthermore, their ease of maintenance makes them a good option for long-term applications in water systems.
• Industrial Piping: Many different experts prefer to use DI pipe mechanical joints to convey different substances. Since they are versatile, they can be used in different industries for the piping system.

How to Install DI Mechanical Joints?

If you want to benefit from mechanical joint specifications, you need to install them properly. A secure and appropriate installation guarantees the lifespan of your ductile iron pipe system. Here are nine critical steps to observe and install these joints.

1. Check the ductile iron fittings and pipes for any problems. You should also clean them carefully.
2. It’s time to insert the gasket components into the fitting socket of the pipe.
3. You can lubricate the end of the pipe to have a smoother installation process.
4. Afterward, try to push the ductile iron pipe into the fitting. Keep it perfectly aligned.
5. Now, it’s time to position the gland over the pipe. The bolt holes should be aligned with other components.
6. You need to tighten the bolts and nuts with a torque wrench.
7. Don’t forget to assess the mechanical joint to make sure everything is placed perfectly.
8. Finally, you can run a few tests to check for any possibility of leakage or other issues.
9. If you can’t install these joints, it’s better to consult a professional and ask them for help.