STOPPLE® Plugging Fittings, 4" (100mm) and larger, are also full branch fittings. They are equipped with LOCK-O-RING® Flanges and plugs, which are used as a means of recovering the tapping valves after a STOPPLE® plugging operation.
After the plugging job is completed, the LOCK-O-RING® Plug is installed in the fitting flange and LOCK-O-RING® Segments are extended into a groove in the plug, holding the plug in place. An O-ring in the plug provides a pressure-tight seal. After it has been confirmed pressure tight, the tapping machine and valve are removed, and a blind flange is installed.
At a future date, the blind flange may be removed, a valve installed and the LOCK-O-RING® Plug may be removed, regaining access to the pipeline.