Quickly, safely and reliably hydrotest open-ended pipe, pipelines, and pressure vessels using USA's high pressure Outboard Retraction Blocking plug
Call (800) 456-8721 to Rent or Buy — Specify:
- GSST Plug Model Required
- Size
- Pipe Schedule
- Test Pressure
- Quantity Needed
- Rental or Purchase
- Necessary Delivery Date
Key Technical Features
Patented innovations that enable reliable high-pressure containment
Intelligent Wedge System
Self-adjusting wedges distribute load evenly across the pipe wall, automatically conforming to ovality and surface irregularities. Grip strength increases proportionally with test pressure.
- Even Load Distribution: Eliminates pressure points
- Adaptive Design: Accommodates pipe variations
- Pressure-Responsive: Stronger under load
Gritlock® Surface Technology
Proprietary coating creates thousands of microscopic contact points for superior grip without surface damage. Proven durability through extensive field testing.
- Microscopic Contact: Maximum grip area
- Surface Protection: Minimal pipe marking
- Long-Lasting: Hundreds of cycles
Tri-Ply® Multi-Durometer Seals
Patented Tri-Ply seal design prevents deformation and edge mushrooming. Enhanced flexibility and strength beyond standard seal configurations.
- Deformation Resistant: Maintains seal integrity
- Enhanced Flexibility: Superior adaptation
- Patent Protected: Proprietary design
Aviation-Grade Construction
Lightweight aluminum construction reduces handling requirements while maintaining structural integrity under extreme forces.
- Material: Aviation-grade aluminum
- Weight: Optimized for handling
- Durability: Maximum performance
Temperature Performance
Engineered seal materials maintain integrity across industrial temperature ranges.
- Continuous: -10°F to 170°F
- Intermittent: Up to 200°F
- Material Stability: Consistent performance
Standards Compliance
Designed and manufactured to meet or exceed relevant industry standards for piping systems.
- ASME B16.5
- ASME B31.1/B31.3
- ASME PCC-2-2018
GRIPSAFE ST IIB PLUG APPLICATIONS
CLICK ON LINKS BELOW TO VIEW DESCRIPTORS
When paired with a ported blind flange, GripSafe ST IIB plugs subject the weld joint to longitudinal (axial), circumferential (hoop), and radial pressures akin to those experienced during hydro-testing of the entire piping system. This feature surpasses the capabilities of traditional flange test plugs (FTPs), which solely apply hoop and radial stresses.
Block outlet piping in vessels to pressurize for cleaning or testing purposes.
This video has audio. Tap the video to access controls and enable sound.
UNMATCHED SAFETY & RELIABILITY
CLICK ON LINKS BELOW TO VIEW DESCRIPTORS
Thanks to its groundbreaking patented design, GripSafe incorporates independent self-gripping technology that significantly reduces the likelihood of plug movement downstream immediately after installation.
The advanced system evenly distributes the load among the gripping wedges, guaranteeing optimal surface contact and secure holding. As pressure mounts behind the plug, the wedges tighten their grip. Regardless of any pipe irregularities, each wedge adjusts independently to ensure plug security and safety. Combined with its automatic gripping function, GripSafe elevates the concept of "self-gripping" to new heights.
Unlike competing products that rely on serrated jaws or sharp edges to grip the pipe, GripSafe ST features a distinctive wedge system to securely hold the plug in place, while virtually leaving no surface damage, and reducing the potential need for pipe cleanup.
GripSafe plugs feature Gritlock®, an exclusive brazed texture on the gripping wedges suitable for any metal type without introducing carbon contamination. Unlike other plugs, GripSafe doesn't necessitate alternative parts for application in stainless steel and other alloy pipes where cross-contamination poses a concern.
On average, GripSafe plugs are lighter than competing products. As plug sizes increase, substantial weight disparities emerge, with larger sizes experiencing reductions of up to 50% in weight without compromising their holding capabilities.
(P) - When testing in ANSI A106 Grade B pipe material, a Pipe Reinforcement Device (PRD) is required if the Max Plug Back-Pressure Rating (PSI) shown in the last column of our specifications pages for plug sizes 4" and above will exceed the number identified after the "P-". If the material is not A106 B, consult USA Industries engineering team for more information.
In general, a pipe reinforcement device is strongly recommended for all pipes 10/10S and thinner walled.
CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL
"GripSafe plugs have been valuable assets on the LNGC site. The quick and easy installation, use, and removal of the plugs have made testing plain end pipe simple. The Lifting Device makes rigging of the larger plugs into position fast, convenient, and safe. The design of the grippers leave little to no marks inside the pipe. Torque values and plug info on the front plate makes plug identification and double-checking for the right plug usage easy. Overall, the GripSafe plugs are an excellent product."
T. Read / Hydro Foreman,
S. Daigle | Global EPC Company
Patents & Trademarks
Designed, Manufactured & Supplied Exclusively by USA Industries, an ISO 9001:2015 Certified Company.
- US PATENTS: 9,927,058 | 9,810,364 | D894,349 | 10,746,339 | 11,391,404 | 11,408,548 | 11,408,549
- US REGISTERED TRADEMARKS: 6,540,339 | 6,540,338 | 6,2569,105
- CANADIAN PATENT: 3,004,787 | 3,114,389 | 3,086,395 | 3,144,389
- CANADIAN INDUSTRIAL DESIGN: CA 186293
- CANADIAN TRADEMARKS: 1,168,054 | 1,168,053
- EUROPEAN PATENT: EP3377797 B1 | EP386575B1 | EP3728929B1
- EUROPEAN PATENT [Germany]: 602016051864.3
- EUROPEAN UNION DESIGN REGISTRATION: 00628264-001
- EUROPEAN UNION INTERNATIONAL TRADEMARK REGISTRATION #'s: 1567890 | 1550298 | 1550337
- AUSTRALIAN PATENT: 2016355337 | 2018392008 | 2022231742 | 2020304050
- AUSTRALIAN TRADEMARK NUMBER: 2120735
- Other US and Foreign Patents Pending
A Critical Reminder: Conducting pressure testing poses significant hazards, demanding strict adherence to safety protocols. Ensure all connections, valves, flanges, and fittings are suitable for pressure testing. Verify the compatibility of line ID & Plug Range. Most importantly, never position yourself in front of a test plug or enclosure during testing. Discharge from a plug during testing could result in severe injury or fatality.
Failure to adhere to the complete installation procedures outlined in our operating manuals may lead to personnel injury and equipment damage.
GSST GSST Reverse Pressure Inboard Insertion Blocking (IIBB) Downloads
Installation & Operation
Understanding the GripSafe ST installation process
Preparation
Inspect pipe end for cleanliness and dimensional compliance. Verify pipe schedule and material specification match plug sizing. Ensure all components are present and in good condition.
Insertion
Insert plug assembly into pipe opening. Position plug at proper depth according to specifications. Align wedge system with pipe axis for optimal load distribution.
Seal Expansion
Torque seal expansion nuts to specified values in proper sequence. Multi-durometer seals expand to create primary pressure barrier. Verify seal contact around entire circumference.
Testing
Perform hydrostatic or pneumatic test according to project specifications. Wedge system automatically engages under pressure, increasing grip strength. Monitor test pressure and duration per requirements.
Removal
Release test pressure completely. Loosen seal expansion nuts in reverse sequence. Extract plug assembly from pipe. Inspect components for next use.
Hydrotesting Methodology Comparison
GripSafe ST vs. traditional welded end caps
| Parameter | Welded End Caps | GripSafe ST |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Time | 8-24 hours per location | ~15 minutes per location |
| Skilled Labor Required | Certified welders, full crew | Standard operators (1-2 people) |
| Permitting | Hot work permits, fire watch | No permits required |
| Inspection Requirements | X-ray, visual inspection, QC | Visual verification only |
| Cure/Wait Time | Hours for cooling, inspection | Test immediately |
| Removal Process | Cut, grind, rebevel pipe | Loosen nuts, extract plug |
| Reusability | Single use (consumable) | Hundreds of test cycles |
| Failure Risk | Weld defects, incomplete fusion | Proven mechanical reliability |
| Overall Process Time | 1-3 days per test package | Same day completion |
Industrial Applications
Where GripSafe ST technology delivers the most value
Construction & Fabrication
- EPC construction yards
- Modular fabrication facilities
- Large-diameter pipe spool fabrication
- Pre-commissioning activities
- Field construction sites
Process Industries
- Refining operations
- Petrochemical facilities
- Chemical processing plants
- LNG terminals and infrastructure
- Industrial gas systems
Specialized Testing
- Projects restricting hydrotesting
- Pneumatic test requirements
- Moisture-sensitive systems
- High-pressure pipeline testing
- Post-repair verification
Maintenance & Turnaround
- Planned maintenance outages
- Turnaround activities
- System modifications
- Integrity testing programs
- Emergency repair verification