Industrial Utility Efficiency

GF Introduces LOKX System Ductile Iron Fitting

GF Piping Systems (GF) has introduced the proprietary LOKX System Ductile Iron Fitting from GF Central Plastics, designed specifically for use with C900 PVC and CIOD HDPE pipe in buried applications.  The new system eliminates the need for any bolts or assembly tools, resulting in a savings of up to 80% in installation time and labor costs compared to mechanical joint restraint (MJ) fitting systems.

GF’s LOKX System Ductile Iron Fitting is designed specifically for use with C900 PVC and CIOD HDPE pipe in buried applications.

Engineered with a deep bell design, the LOKX System’s ductile iron push-on style fitting has deflection capabilities of up to a total of 10° in any direction (5° deflection per bell). This flexibility allows for extreme ground movement, making it suitable for seismic applications.

Another key feature to the LOKX System is its internal self-restraining gasket that eliminates pipe-to-pipe and pipe-to-fitting separation, even at high pressures. The self-restraining gasket has a low insertion force in addition to a lip-seal design with 316 stainless steel gripping segments. When fully engaged, the segments self-engage to form a 360° restraint that prevents pipe distortion and point loading that MJ restraints cause. Compatible with C900 PVC and CIOD HDPE pipe, the LOKX System is manufactured to AWWA C153 with a minimum working pressure of 350 psi.

In the water and wastewater fitting market, the installation for mechanical joint fittings and joint restraints can be time consuming and difficult to install depending on ditch conditions.  The mechanical joint fitting was originally designed for use on heavy ductile iron pipe, yet the majority of all installations today are on PVC pipe in sizes 12" and smaller. Designed specifically for use on PVC and PE pipe, the LOKX Systems greatly reduces human error and the amount of time required to install the traditional MJ restraint systems.

GF’s LOKX System successfully solves the problems associated with traditional MJ fitting systems. Its internal restrained fitting is leak resistant, fast to install, and not subject to pipe distortion and point loading as seen with MJ restraint systems. The LOKX System can be used for a variety of buried applications in water and wastewater, seismic areas, corrosive regions, coastal areas with brackish soils, and horizontal directional drilling. UL and FM approvals are pending.

For more information on the LOKX System, visit https://www.gfps.com/en-us/products-solutions/innovation/lokx-system.html or contact GF Piping Systems toll free at 800 854-4090 or us.ps@georgfischer.com

About GF Piping Systems

As the leading flow solutions provider for the safe and sustainable transport of fluids, GF Piping Systems creates connections for life. The division focuses on industry-leading leak-free piping solutions for numerous demanding end-market segments. Its strong focus on customer-centricity and innovation is reflected by its global sales, service, and manufacturing footprint and its award-winning portfolio, including fittings, valves, pipes, automation, fabrication, and jointing technologies. GF Piping Systems has its own sales companies in 31 countries, which means it is always by its customers' side. Production sites in 36 locations in America, Europe, and Asia ensure sufficient availability and quick, reliable delivery. In 2021, GF Piping Systems generated sales of CHF 1'971 million and employed 7'686 people. GF Piping Systems is a division of Georg Fischer AG, founded in 1802 and headquartered in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. For more information visit www.gfps.com