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Mueller insertion valve installed on a water main in a shored trench

Permanent system control

Valve Insertion 101: Adding Control to an Active Water Main

A practical overview of why utilities add insertion valves and how pipe conditions guide system selection.

Services 101

Every line needs its own plan.

This overview describes the method. Koppl reviews the line conditions and required work before selecting equipment and procedures.

Discuss your project

Why add an insertion valve

A utility may need a new permanent control point where existing valve spacing is inadequate or a planned repair would otherwise affect a much larger service area. Insertion methods are designed to add that control on an active main.

The project advantages

Many installations use one primary excavation, limit draining and chlorination, and reduce customer interruption. The resulting valve remains as an asset for future operation and maintenance.

Selecting a valve system

Pipe material, diameter, pressure, outside diameter, condition, orientation, access, coating, owner standards, and the desired valve behavior all influence the selected system.

Why limitations matter

Nominal size ranges and published pressure ratings vary by manufacturer, pipe type, and configuration. A technical review is required to confirm the exact system available for a specific line.

What to send Koppl

Share the pipe size, material, wall thickness if known, operating pressure and temperature, media, line location, access, timing, and the work that needs to happen. Include current photographs and drawings.

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Services 101

Related service overviews.

Start with what you know

Talk to Koppl about your line.

Share the line conditions and work you need completed. Koppl's crew can help identify the next step.