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9 Types of Flexible Repair Couplings

What are the main variants of repair couplings

Making the right connections is absolutely essential in a wide range of industrial settings. In plumbing, ventilation, or sewage (or, wherever there are pipes, really), however, the quality of the connection depends on – clamps and couplings. Use the right one and you can expect years of dependable use.

However, to make that possible, it is imperative to get familiar with every type of flexible repair coupling. This guide will make it easy to do just that, as well as understand what each type of coupling is best for, and where you can get that Fernco clamp or coupling in Rochester for a premium quality pipe job you want and need.

What are the main variants of repair couplings?

fernco clamp rochesterThere are many ways to sort repair clamps and couplings, as well as categories to sort them into. Internal or external. Material or Mechanical flexing. Compression or reducing. However, there’s a better way of sorting all these options for an equally detailed, but a lot more streamlined way, according to their use:

  • Standard flexible repair couplings, and;
  • Shielded flexible repair couplings.

However, it should be noted that all of the categories mentioned above aren’t mutually exclusive. For instance, a shielded coupling can be compression coupling, whereas a standard one can be mechanical flexing. Therefore, it is best to focus on the specific case and/or the repair clamp installation requirement to find out exactly which one will suit you the most.

Flexible repair couplings: the breakdown

Since we’ve already covered shielded flexible repair couplings, we’ll focus on their standard (and more commonly used) counterparts:

  • Small-diameter couplings: These are your standard couplings, ranging from 3/4” to 27”. They are the most commonly used couplings, as they work well on virtually any pipe material, are easy to install, and are extremely resistant;
  • Large-diameter couplings: Designed mainly for sewage and drainage purposes, large-diameter pipes come in standard sizes of 23.5” to 82.5”. They’re made from flexible PVC material, making them quite resilient and long-lasting;
  • Plastic Socket couplings: Intent for use on plastic pipes, socket couplings are mainly implemented to make socket-to-pipe or socket-to-socket connections without having to replace fittings or alter the lines;
  • Plastic sleeve seals: As the name suggests, Seal serves to keep unwanted factors (dirt, insects, etc.) out of your plumbing system. They are suitable for use above or below ground, as well as on plastic or copper pipes;
  • Tees and elbows: An ideal option to create up to a 90° connection between two pipes, or conjoin the flow of two pipes into a singular one;
  • Rib couplings: Designed to withstand a lot of pressure, ribs are most commonly used as connectors for ETI and cement or ETI and SDR-35 pipes in sewage systems;
  • Eccentric couplings: Used as a connector between two different-sized pipes, eccentric couplings prevent obstruction buildup, thus ensuring continuous flow;
  • Expansion joints: One of the best options for vertical and heat piping. Expansion joints can contract and expand to ensure uninterrupted flow and prevent clogging;
  • Heavy-duty non-shielded coupling variants: Designed for connections that cannot use a shielded variant, but must withstand extreme conditions.

Where to find a Fernco clamp or coupling in Rochester that will fit your exact needs?

When you’re looking for a clamp or a coupling that can withstand many years of continual use, Fernco is the logical choice. Resistant to most hazards plumbing, vent, and sewage installations carry, they are an ideal choice for small or large-scale, indoor or outdoor pipe repair/upgrade projects. Considering their affordable price, Fernco is an option that gives you the highest return on your investment.

And, now, they’re right within your reach. If you’re anywhere near the city of Rochester or Watertown, that means Blair Supply, the #1 place to get your supreme-quality clamps and couplings is just a stone’s throw away. Pay us a visit to browse through our selection or if you have questions regarding pipe repair clamps/couplings, their installation, replacement, etc. Or, if an in-person visit is not an option simply give us a call. Our customer support is always on standby to help you make the informed, and therefore right choice.


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