Ductile Iron Pipe Restrained Joint Development down through the Years

Product development and innovation is essential for a successful and long-lasting product. Look at virtually everything you routinely use and you can likely remember an earlier version that didn’t run as fast or jump as high. While iron pipe has improved in multiple ways and in various manners, its joint technology in general and restrained joint development in particular has been substantial. From leather gaskets and jute joints of the past, from labor-intensive cast-iron bolts and heavy glands, to restrained joints that deflect and telescope today, ductile iron joint technology continues to be innovative. This presentation will provide an overview of iron pipe joint development with an emphasis on restrained joint innovation and performance. Criteria such as configuration and accessories, assembly, deflection, end-wise thrust capacity, and other important factors will be presented. Specific applications and examples from projects in service today will be included. For those new to the pipelines industry, a comprehensive overview of iron pipe joint development will be provided. More experienced industry veterans will be treated to some historical insights and be brought current with the most recent innovations in joint technology and performance.