Underground Construction - October 2021 - 29

REHABNEWS
Correct pipe design: Plug performance could vary, depending
on pipe types. For example, in corrugated pipe, plug back pressure
rating drops by 50 percent.
Use calibrated gauges: Failure to use calibrated gauges could
result in over- or under-inflation of the plug, leading to failure.
We recommend monitoring inflation and back pressure with
calibrated pressure gauges only. In addition, never deflate a plug
while back pressure is still in the line. More importantly, always
deflate a plug remotely, using an extension hose. Once again,
never deflate a plug within the danger zone.
Properly clean and inspect the plugs: Plugs must be clean
and inspected before and after every use. Do not use a plug if
it has or shows any signs of wear or deterioration.
The inspection should include, but not be limited to, looking
for cuts, abrasions, punctures, bulges, cracks, corrosion, loose or
damaged fittings and components, and leaks. Be sure to inspect
the pipe and clear it of any debris or foreign substances before
placing the plug in the pipe. Inflation against a sharp object could
cause the plug to rupture. An unclean pipe could reduce the plug's
back pressure-holding capability and damage the plug during
placement or inflation.
An engineer must determine if a backup system is required
and must design a blocking device. An additional backup system
should be considered to prevent injury or property damage in case
of plug failure. A properly designed blocking device must be used
to restrain any plug movement, because forces behind the plug
could be tremendous. Never use eye bolts, inflation hoses or other
attachments on the plug as a means to restrain plug movement
under back pressure.
Monitor plug placement, pressure
While in operation, it is important to monitor the placement and
pressure of the plugs.
Never use chemicals, including hydrocarbons, as they can cause
damage to the natural rubber. Be sure to use the correct media
when inflating the plugs - air, water and inert gasses (nitrogen).
Never overinflate or underinflate the plugs.
Always release the back pressure from the pipe before deflating
the plug. Plug deflation before releasing back pressure could cause
the plug to dislodge at extreme velocity.
Maintenance and storage
Cherne's pneumatic plugs can be cleaned with mild soap and water
(other cleaning agents may cause damage). Store the plug in a dry
place, below 110 degrees Fahrenheit, and away from sunlight or
other sources of ultraviolet light and ozone.
Following these simple steps and taking the time to correctly do
the procedure can actually make the difference between life and
death. Ensure that you and everyone on your crew are familiar
with the hazards and preventive measures necessary when working
with pipe plugs. *
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Cherne Industries, (800) 843-7584, cherneind.com
Developing, Leading Vortex's
Global Marketing Strategy
Jaclyn (Jackie) Herrera has joined Vortex Companies LLC,
in the newly created position of chief marketing officer, to
drive the fast-growing company's global marketing strategy.
An award-winning marketing professional with nearly
20 years of experience, Herrera spent the first half of her
career working at two Houston-based marketing agencies,
where she quickly rose through the ranks into leadership positions.
In 2010, she joined The Weir Group's Oil & Gas Division to head-up its
global marketing and branding efforts, after it entered a new market in the
Upstream Land Sector. Over the course of 10 years, Herrera served multiple
roles, including overseeing the company's marketing communications,
branding, wellhead business development and sales programs. She also
led the Artificial Lift product line and led operations for the North America
Wellhead manufacturing plant.
" Jackie fills a void at the executive management team level., " said Mike Vellano,
Vortex CEO. " She brings a unique blend of marketing, brand building, sales
and even operational experience that will help us harness and execute our
message more consistently, as we continue to extend our worldwide reach, "
The Vortex Companies, based in Houston, is a global provider of advanced
trenchless water and sewer technologies and turnkey services to cost-effectively
renew municipal, industrial and commercial infrastructure. Its diverse
technologies, including manhole and pipe rehabilitation materials, polymeric
coatings and resins, sewer robot systems and high-speed drain cleaning tools,
allow customers the opportunity to select the best fit for their system. *
FOR MORE INFORMATION
The Vortex Companies, (855) 949-3441, vortexcompanies.com
Interplastic Corporation Awards
2021 Scholarships
Six well-deserving high school graduates in the St. Paul, Minn. area, were
recipients of the 2021 Scholars Award sponsored by Interplastic Corporation
in affiliation with the American Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA)
and the International Cast Polymer Association (ICPA).
To be eligible for a Scholars Award, the applicant's parents, legal guardian,
or the student must be employed by an ACMA or ICPA member company
and the student must be planning to attend an accredited four-year college
or university. Selection of the winners is based on the individual's personal
merit and background, with an emphasis on excellence in academic,
financial need and extracurricular activities.
In this 21st year of the scholarship program, Interplastic Corporation
awarded $3,500 to each winner for use towards their studies - tuition and/or
required books, supplies and equipment - at a four-year college or university
of their choice.
Interplastic Corporation, a subsidiary of IP Corporation, is a specialty
chemical company with its headquarters in St. Paul, Minn. The company focuses
on the production and sale of unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins, gel
coats, putties and colorants for the composites and cast polymer industries. *
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Interplastic Corporation, (651) 481-6860, interplastic.com
UCONonline.com | OCTOBER 2021 29
http://www.vortexcompanies.com http://www.cherneind.com http://www.interplastic.com http://www.UCONonline.com
Underground Construction - October 2021

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