Pipeline Repair & Preparation Best Practice: Pipe Squeeze Off Tools

Polyethylene (PE) pipes are a critical component of modern water and gas distribution systems. Their flexibility, strength and corrosion resistance make them a popular choice for a range of industries around the world. However, like all pipelines, PE pipes require regular maintenance and repairs to keep systems flowing smoothly.

As leading suppliers and manufacturers of cutting-edge PE pipe squeeze off tools and equipment, we provide technical training for the water, gas, wastewater and industrial services to maintain utility distribution networks. Using our 45+ years of experience, we’ve created this definitive guide to pipeline repair using best practice for pipe squeeze off tools.

What is pipe squeeze off?

Pipe squeeze off is a technique typically used to reduce the flow or temporarily stop the flow of water or gas in PE pipes. It works by achieving a carefully controlled and highly accurate compression of the PE pipe, between applicable beam sets, to the relevant standards. Our units are typically designed and manufactured in accordance with GIS/PL2-7. Squeeze off procedures can be useful for making installation tie-ins, performing maintenance checks on system components, connection tasks, diversions and emergency leakage repairs.

This technique is well suited to PE pipes thanks to this material’s toughness and flexibility, which allows the pipe to recover without a measurable loss in service life or flow capability. Trained operatives follow strict industry guidelines and procedures to ensure that squeeze off equipment is applied correctly, to achieve the desired results and ensure integrity of the pipeline systems.

Squeeze off should only be performed by operators who’ve received training from an authorised or approved instructor, and have a solid working knowledge of PE pipes and squeeze off procedures. Failure to follow proper procedures can result in issues, similar to the incorrect use of any equipment.

Preparation before squeeze off

Safety precautions

When using squeeze off tools for pipe maintenance and repair, you need to follow the best practice outlined in Gas Industry Standard GIS/PL2-7 Squeeze off equipment, as well as the relevant operational procedures of the asset owner. This includes making sure all precautions are made to avoid unexpected movement whilst using the tools, ensuring adequate lock-off of material flow and spacing the tool correctly to avoid damage to the pipe.

Here are some additional tips for preventing pipe damage during squeeze off…

Temperature requirements

Cold weather can increase the pipe’s susceptibility to damage. When performing the squeeze off technique on a PE pipe, the ideal temperature range is above 0°C (32°F). Anything below freezing may make the material stiff and more prone to breakage. Make sure the pipe remains above 0°C for at least two hours before the procedure.

Joint & fitting clearance

Fittings, joints, mechanical connections and prior repair points must be at least 3x the pipe diameter or 12 inches (whichever is greater) from the squeeze off tool. Otherwise, you’ll need to find an alternative location for squeezing off.

Pipe cleaning

You should clean a minimum of 100mm of the pipe surface on either side of the squeeze-off point. This is to avoid pressing dirt or debris into the pipe’s surface during the procedure which can damage the pipe’s integrity.

Identify damage

Before mounting the squeeze off tool, carefully examine the area for signs of damage across the entire circumference 100mm either side of the potential squeeze off position. ‘Critical areas’ must be free of damage – these are the areas of the pipe wall most susceptible to damage as they are directly under the squeeze tool’s clamping points. It is also vital to ensure that a squeeze off has not been applied to that same pipe section previously.

Tool suitability

Using a suitable squeeze off tool, and applicable safety stops is key to ensuring that the pipe is not overcompressed. Below are the considerations you need to keep in mind when choosing the right tools for the task at hand…

Choosing the best pipe squeeze off tool for the job

Here are the different tools and equipment available for pipe squeeze off and when it’s best to use each of them for safe and effective pipe maintenance.

Manual squeeze off tools

Manual squeeze off tools are designed for smaller pipe diameters or situations where minimal force is required, and a compact tool is best suited to the space available. These hand-operated tools allow for more control during the squeeze off process, generating enough force to reduce or stop the flow without damaging the pipe. They’re also typically simpler to operate than hydraulic tools but require more physical effort to use. Their common applications include distribution and mains service lines.

This category includes a range of options suitable to various small pipe diameters:

Hydraulic squeeze off tools

For larger diameter and high pressure pipes, hydraulic squeeze tools are the better choice. These robust tools work by using hydraulic pressure to reduce or close off the flow and are perfect for situations where greater size capacity or force is required.

These tools include:

Post squeeze off re-rounding tools

After the squeeze-off process, pipes may need reshaping. Pipe re-rounding tools restore the pipe’s original shape to maintain flow efficiency and structural integrity.

At Hy-Ram, we provide two different types of pipe re-rounding tools:

Single post squeeze off re-rounding tools (pictured above, left) – these are diameter specific
Universal post squeeze off re-rounding tools (pictured above, right) – which can be used on a variety of pipe diameters

Depending on the range of pipe diameters you work with, the universal post squeeze off re-rounding tool may be the most cost-effective solution. Speak to our team if you’d like more advice on choosing the best tools for your requirements.

Squeeze off tape

This bright yellow squeeze off tape is used to identify the exact squeeze off location on the pipe. This helps prevent a pipe from being squeezed again in the same area, which could lead to damage.

The squeeze off procedure for PE pipes

Applying the squeeze off tool

Here’s how to effectively apply the squeeze off tool to prevent damage to the pipe:

Centre the tool carefully over the prepared area and position it per manufacturer guidelines
Compress the pipe using a gradual, controlled motion until the stops reach the bottom horizontal bar – be careful not to over compress as this can cause the pipe to fail
Engage the locking mechanism to keep the tool secure and in place during the repair work
Regularly inspect the pipe during the procedure and keep an eye out for signs of damage and splitting particularly around the tool’s compression points – never leave a squeezed pipe unattended

Removing the squeeze off tool

Once repairs are complete, remove the squeeze off tool following these steps:

Release the interlocks and depressurise the tool slowly and carefully
Fully open the tool before detaching it from the pipe
Inspect the pipe for any signs of damage, especially around the compression zones – replace damaged sections if necessary

Key takeaways: 5 top tips for safe and effective squeeze off

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure all personnel are equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Maintain proper spacing between multiple squeeze-off points (a minimum of six pipe diameters).
Inspect all equipment before and after use to ensure functionality and safety.
Use tools designed for the specific type of pipe material, diameter, and SDR rating.
Unsure? Speak to an expert! Whether you need additional training for your team or advice on choosing a tool for a specific squeeze off job, our friendly team is more than happy to help.

Why choose Hy-Ram’s PE pipe squeeze off tools?

At Hy-Ram, we offer a range of PE pipe squeeze-off tools that meet industry standards for safety and effectiveness. Our products are engineered for precision control and strength, making them a reliable choice for maintenance teams working with PE pipes. Find out why we’re the UK’s leading PE pipe squeeze off manufacturer or explore our full range of PE pipe squeeze of tools here.

Always remember to consult the latest approved guidelines, standards and operating procedures with relevant parties, including the manufacturers and asset owners.

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Pipeline Repair & Preparation: Best Practice for Using Pipe Squeeze Off Tools