A Complete Restraint System: How Uni-Flange Simplifies Secure Connections
Pressurized piping systems generate axial forces at bends, tees, valves, and dead ends. If these forces are not managed, joints can separate and cause leakage or system damage. Traditional restraint methods rely on concrete thrust blocks or external tie rods. The Uni-Flange pipe restraint system provides a mechanical approach designed to both connect and restrain pipe without these external measures.
What is the Uni-Flange pipe restraint system?
The Uni-Flange system is a family of mechanical pipe restraint products manufactured by Ford Meter Box Company, Inc. It includes adapter flanges, restrained flange adapters, restrained couplings, and joint restraint devices. These components are designed to connect plain-end pipe and fittings while providing axial restraint against thrust forces. The system is used on ductile iron, steel, PVC, and HDPE piping in water and wastewater applications.
System components
Adapter flanges
Uni-Flange adapter flanges convert plain-end pipe to flanged connections without threading or welding. Series are available for steel, ductile iron, and PVC pipe. Key features include rotatable flange alignment, permitted angular deflection during installation, and built-in end restraint using set screws or serrated locking systems.Restrained flange adapters
Restrained flange adapters integrate flange connections with mechanical restraint assemblies. They provide a flanged outlet on plain-end pipe while securing the pipe against axial movement.Restrained couplings
Restrained couplings join plain-end pipe to plain-end pipe across ductile iron, steel, PVC, and C909 systems. These units use restraint glands and actuating screws to provide axial restraint without external tie rods.Joint restraint devices
Joint restraint devices secure mechanical joint fittings, push-on fittings, and bell-and-spigot connections. Internal gripping surfaces lock onto the pipe wall when clamping bolts are tightened.Functional characteristics
- Mechanical axial restraint without concrete thrust blocks.
- Plain-end pipe installation without threading, welding, or grooving for adapter flange use.
- Rotatable flange design to assist bolt-hole alignment.
- Permitted angular deflection during installation.
- Built-in restraint through set screw or serrated locking mechanisms.
- Suitable for buried and exposed piping installations.
- Serviceable connections that can be disassembled for equipment maintenance.
Materials and compatibility
Product specifications include:
- Ductile iron components manufactured to ASTM A536 Grade 65-45-12.
- UFA200, UFA400, and UFA900 adapter flanges supplied with standard shop coat.
- ArmorGuard E-Coat epoxy coating available on selected Uni-Flange restraint products where enhanced corrosion protection is specified.
- Hardware options available in HSLA or stainless steel for enhanced corrosion resistance.
- Gasket materials including SBR, EPDM, and NBR depending on application.
- Adapter flanges and couplings available for ductile iron, steel, PVC, and HDPE pipe.
- Flange drilling compatible with ANSI B16.1 and ANSI B16.5 standards.
- Use in water and wastewater piping systems.
Installation and maintenance
Adapter flanges allow job-site pipe preparation using plain-end pipe and standard cutting tools. Threading and welding are not required. Restraint mechanisms lock onto the pipe when torque is applied per published torque tables.
For maintenance, adapter flanges can be loosened and repositioned on the pipe to remove valves, hydrants, or meters, then reinstalled without cutting the pipe. Restrained couplings and joint restraints are similarly serviceable through standard bolting hardware. Coating and hardware selections can be specified based on site corrosion requirements.
For full product specifications, sizing tables, and installation guidance, refer to the Uni-Flange Pipe Restraint documentation from Ford Meter Box Company, Inc.:
[Link to Uni-Flange Pipe Restraint Catalog]FAQ
Is Uni-Flange a thrust restraint?
Uni-Flange products provide mechanical axial restraint designed to resist thrust forces in pressurized piping systems. They perform the same restraint function traditionally handled by thrust blocks or tie rods.Are Uni-Flange adapter flanges only for making connections?
No. Adapter flanges include built-in end restraint using set screws or serrated locking systems.Can Uni-Flange be used on PVC pipe?
Yes. Specific adapter flange series and restraint devices are designed for PVC pipe applications.Does installation require welding or threading?
Adapter flanges allow plain-end pipe installation without threading or welding.Can Uni-Flange connections be serviced after installation?
Adapter flanges and restrained couplings can be disassembled and repositioned for equipment maintenance.The Uni-Flange pipe restraint system provides a unified mechanical approach to connecting and securing pressurized piping across multiple materials. By integrating restraint into flanges, couplings, and joint devices, the system offers an alternative to traditional thrust management methods while supporting efficient installation and long-term serviceability in water and wastewater infrastructure.