Education Center
Vallencourt Construction provides land clearing and preparation services for a wide range of development projects.
Underground Utilities Training: Bell Restraint Installation
This training video demonstrates the proper installation of an 8-inch bell restraint system used on water main pipe connections. The procedure focuses on correct assembly, hardware placement, and tightening techniques to ensure the joint remains secure under pressure.
The video begins by identifying the matching restraint pieces and showing how they are positioned around the bell and spigot connection. Proper alignment of these components is critical before installing any hardware. Once in place, all-thread rods are inserted through the restraint assembly to secure both sides of the connection. These rods are designed to hold the restraint system together and prevent the bell from coming apart once the line is pressurized.
During assembly, the crew demonstrates tightening procedures using an impact gun while holding the nut in place with a wrench. Holding the nut steady ensures proper torque and prevents hardware from spinning or binding during installation. Even tightening across all-thread rods is emphasized to maintain uniform pressure on the restraint system.
The restraint plays an important role during pressure testing, where the line must maintain 150 PSI for two hours. A properly installed restraint system helps prevent movement or separation at the joint during testing and long-term operation.
This video reinforces correct field procedure, tool usage, and hardware placement for pipe crews, operators, and foremen responsible for underground water main installation.