AWWA C515 Socket End Gate Valve | AWWA C111 Push-On Joint

Socket/ Push-On Ends Overview

Figure-1: a photo of the AWWA C515 socket end gate valve with push-on joint end connections: stem cap for T-bar operation, non-rising stem and resilient seated, FBE coating for both interior and exterior surfaces according to AWWA C550.

SJZ Metalsin supplies AWWA C515 ductile iron resilient seated socket end gate valves with non-rising stem (NRS). The term “socket end” refers to that these valves shall be furnished with push-on joint end connections in accordance with AWWA C111. The push-on joint is a single rubber-gasket joint that is assembled by positioning a continuous, molded, rubber-ring gasket in an annular recess in the valve end socket that is cast integrally with the body. The plain end of the entering pipe or fitting is forced into the socket and compresses the gasket radially to form a positive seal. The gasket and the annular recess are designed and shaped so that a properly placed gasket is locked in place against displacement.

Key Features, Components & Applications

Push-on joint end connections are used for easy and quick installation of AWWA C515 gate valves in a pipeline. They are designed to provide a watertight seal without the need for additional components like bolts, nuts, or gaskets, simplifying the assembly process and reducing installation time. Push-on joints for AWWA C515 gate valves feature a socket and spigot design, where the valve’s socket end (bell-like) accommodates the spigot end of the pipe, creating a secure and leak-proof connection using an internal rubber gasket ring made of EPDM or NBR. These joints are easy to install by simply pushing the pipe into the valve’s socket recess until it seats firmly against the gasket, requiring no tools or complex processes. Additionally, the design allows for some flexibility and minor misalignment, making it particularly useful in field conditions where perfect alignment is challenging.

Figure-2: The typical drawing of an AWWA C515 ductile iron socket end gate valve with AWWA C111 push-on joint ends, non-rising stem, resilient seated, stem cap provided.

AWWA C515 ductile iron gate valves with push-on joints are versatile and can be connected to various types of pipes, including ductile iron, IPS PVC, HDPE, grey cast iron, and steel. These valves use a push-on joint mechanism that simplifies installation and ensures a reliable, leak-proof connection. The compatibility with different pipe materials and sizes makes these valves suitable for municipal water systems, irrigation, industrial applications, and sewage and drainage systems.

Installation Steps

When connecting the AWWA socket-end gate valve to a ductile iron pipe or fitting, the following steps should be followed:

• Preparation: Ensure that the pipe end and the valve socket end are clean and free of debris.
• Lubrication: Apply a suitable lubricant to the rubber gasket ring and the spigot end of the pipe to ease the assembly.
• Insertion: Align the pipe end with the annular recess of the socket end and push it into the socket until it seats firmly against the rubber gasket.
• Verification: Ensure that the pipe is fully inserted and properly aligned.

Material Selection for Each Valve Part

Dimensions