The use of dedicated or flexible couplings enables a contractor to join same-size plain-end pipes without the need for welding and/or special pipe fittings. They can sometimes be cumbersome to install, however, as not only must they be disassembled prior to installation and then re-assembled during installation, they require tightening anywhere from six to 24 bolts. Those issues are eliminated with the HYMAX Pro Dedicated Size Coupling from Mueller.

Applicable to the water and wastewater, irrigation and industrial markets, HYMAX Pro dedicated size couplings are available in 4- to 24-inch sizes. The smaller 4- to 10-inch sizes feature an industry-first, two-bolt, stab-fit construction, while the larger sizes feature a four-bolt pattern. All couplings from the HYMAX Pro line conform to the AWWA C219, NSF 61, and NSF 372 standards for drinking water system components. The couplings are designed to connect multiple pipe materials, including fiberglass, PVC, ductile and steel.

“Having only two or four bolts to tighten as compared to the competition, which has six to 24 bolts, makes the HYMAX Pro much faster and easier to install,” says Ken Alessi, HYMAX strategic product manager for Mueller. “It is an excellent product for use on wastewater force mains, as the standard epoxy coating and stainless hardware provides excellent protection against sewer gasses and other atmospheric conditions associated with sewer applications.”

The 304SS stainless-steel hardware, fusion-bonded epoxy coating, and EPDM gasket are built into the standard product specifications of this line without additional cost. This provides corrosion resistance, superior quality and affordability for all water and wastewater utilities. In addition, every HYMAX Pro is labeled with an asset registry QR Code so that the products, size, time of installation, location and other pertinent information can be easily recorded. Installation also does not require any special tools.

“The HYMAX Pro hardware tightens from the bolt head, allowing the installer to use standard-end wrenches or shallow socket wrenches,” Alessi says. “Many other dedicated couplings tighten from the nut, which requires more expensive deep-well, or sometimes special-order sockets.”

According to Alessi, the HYMAX Pro represents the first significant improvement for pipe couplings in decades. “Most comparable products are utilizing basic designs that date back over half a century,” he says. “The HYMAX Pro coupling is lighter weight, it has an integrated handle that makes installations much easier and is designed to install much faster.” 800-423-1323; www.hymaxusa.com