Overview, Guided Side Bend Tester

McElroy’s Guided Side Bend Tester performs a qualitative test of a fusion joint by destructively testing a coupon. The quality assurance device tests the ductility of polyethylene pipe fusion joints in a safe, quick manner. “Bend back” tests have been performed in the field for years. This testing method places the entire wall thickness into tension and gives assurance of the ductility of joints.

Now, operators can perform the test safely with the use of a hydraulically powered device that put three points of pressure on test coupons. If no gaps or breaks are present in the fusion joint after the test, the result is a passing grade. The Guided Side-Bend Tester is lightweight, and requires the operator to supply a planer, calipers and saw to complete the testing procedure.