USA-Industries-GSST-Superior-Technology

Quickly, safely and reliably hydrotest open-ended pipe, pipelines, and pressure vessels using USA's high pressure Outboard Retraction Blocking plug

*4” Schedules 120, 160 and XXH –
all other 4” schedules employ the larger body style

**Larger sizes and custom configurations available upon request.

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
ISO 9001:2015 Certified
ASME Compliant
9+ Years R&D
21 Patents
Reusable Design

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

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GSST GSST Reverse Pressure Inboard Insertion Blocking (IIBB) Downloads

Installation & Operation

Understanding the GripSafe ST installation process

1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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

Additional Information

Availability

Purchase or rental options

Request information

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(800) 456-8721