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Contact us.Gripper Gasket LLC – FAQ
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What is Gripper Gasket’s primary business?
At Gripper Gasket™, all we do is design, create and produce the most advanced rubber products available in the market.
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Where are Gripper Gasket™ products made?
All Gripper restraining gaskets are certified “Made in the U.S.A.” in our own manufacturing plants in Corona, California and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
MAXADAPTOR® Couplings are manufactured in Corona, California, U.S.A., and Germany.
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How long has Gripper Gasket™ been in business?
Gripper Gasket Company was established in 1999. Click here for more.
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How do I order Gripper Gasket™ products?
Contact your Gripper Gasket™ sales representative here.
- How do I find a sales representative in my area?
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What are Gripper Gasket's customer service hours?
Monday – Friday
7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (PST) -
As a contractor, can I buy products directly from Gripper Gasket™?
No, we do not currently sell direct to the public. Send us a message here, or call us at 951-479-4999. We can refer you to a local distributor.
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What is the standard lead time?
Standard orders ship within 48 hours. Special orders may require additional lead time.
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Where can I find Gripper Gasket product pricing?
Refer to your wholesale distributor.
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Where can I find Gripper Gasket product literature?
If you are a sales representative or distributor, click here.
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Where do your products ship from?
Our local distributors carry inventory in-stock, however we also carry large inventories in both our CA and TN warehouses.
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How quickly can we get them in-hand?
In many cases you can Will Call them immediately from your local distributor, or we can overnight from one of our warehouses.
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What is Gripper Gasket’s “Will Call” hours?
Monday – Friday
7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (PST) -
What is Gripper Gasket’s “Will Call” policy?
“Will Call” orders require a 24-hour notice. All drivers must verify and sign for products. Credit cannot be issued for shortage claims once the driver has left the facility.
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How would I submit for a Return Material Authorization (RMA)?
Send us a message here. Please include:
- Original purchase order number
- Part number(s)
- Quantity
- Reason for your request
RMA approval may take up to 72 hours. A 25% restocking fee will be applied upon receipt and inspection of the product.
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Does Gripper Gasket participate in buying groups?
Yes. We are an associate member of The Distribution Group (TDG) in the U.S.
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How long do Gripper Gasket products last?
We stand behind the integrity of our products and guarantee, that under proper installation and normal operating conditions, our products will last the life of the piping system. Click here for warranty details.
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What is the Gripper Gasket™ Warranty Policy?
LIMITED WARRANTY: Gripper Gasket LLC warrants to the original Buyer that its products shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year and will replace defective product returned to it within that time.
Click here for more details.
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What industry approvals do Gripper Gasket™ products carry?
Gripper restraining gaskets are NSF/ANSI 61 certified, a UL recognized component, and tested in accordance with ANSI/AWWA C111/a21.11. All product pages have approvals listed under the “Specifications” tab. Click here for full list.
MAXADAPTOR® Couplings carry domestic and international approvals such as, IAPMO listing and CSA B602 approval, and conform to ASTM standards. All product pages have approvals listed under the “Specifications” tab. Click here for full list.
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Does Gripper Gasket™ import raw materials used in manufacturing its products?
No. All raw materials are domestically sourced.
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Are Gripper Gasket™ products recyclable?
100% recyclable.
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Are there environmental benefits of rubber vs. PVC?
Yes. Gripper uses a combination of natural and synthetic rubber in its production process.
The toxicity of polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC), in contrast, has been reported throughout its existence. From production, through use, to disposal – PVC produces more dioxins than any other product. Dioxins are carcinogens and are highly toxic to the cells of our bodies. PVC IS BAD!!!
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What is Gripper Gasket’s position on sustainability, and what is being done to protect the environment?
We understand and embrace our role in the need to stabilize the relationship between the complex systems of human culture and the living world. The earth’s resources are limited and require the opportunity to regenerate and replenish. We are committed to leading the industry in minimizing the impact of our manufacturing activates on the environment. As a result, we are continuously analyzing and implementing initiatives to examine our manufacturing processes and look for ways to improve recycling and reuse opportunities and reduce our carbon footprint.
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Does Gripper Gasket™ provide material Safety Data Sheets (SDS)?
SDS documentation (where applicable) is available here.
Special Note:
Under the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), title 40, a “finished rubber article” is exempt from SDS reporting requirements. If used under normal conditions, this product is deemed safe. - I have an idea for a new product. Can you help me?
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Is Gripper Gasket a good place to work?
Our employees think so! We recognize that each employee is an integral part of the whole. Treating our employees with respect and dignity means promoting a safe and healthy workplace, providing a living wage, and fostering a better standard of living through continuing technical education.
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I really need to talk with a person. Can I call someone if I need help?
Call us:
951-479-4999
Gripper™ Restraining Gaskets – FAQ
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Where are Gripper restraining gaskets made?
All Gripper restraining gaskets are certified “Made in the U.S.A.” in our own manufacturing plants in Corona, California and Hendersonville, North Carolina.
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Where can you purchase Gripper Gasket™ products?
Our products are sold through wholesale distribution.
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How do I order Gripper Gasket™ products?
Contact your Gripper Gasket™ sales representative or local distributor/wholesaler here.
- How do I find the Gripper Gasket™ sales representative in my area?
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Where do your gaskets ship from?
Our local Gripper Gasket™ distributors carry inventory in-stock, however we also carry large inventories in both our CA and TN warehouses.
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What is Gripper Gasket’s Warranty Policy?
LIMITED WARRANTY: Gripper Gasket LLC warrants to the original Buyer that its products shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year and will replace defective product returned to it within that time.
Click here for more details.
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Are your restraining gaskets available for both types of Ductile Iron pipe?
Gripper Gasket™ manufactures restraining gaskets for both Tyton Joint®¹ and American Fastite®² joint pipe.
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What’s the size range of available gaskets?
Gaskets for Tyton Joint®¹ push-on ductile iron pipe, valves and fittings are available in sizes 3“ – 24“. Gaskets for American Fastite®² ductile iron pipe, valves and fittings are available in sizes 4“ – 12“.
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What’s the difference between a Gripper Gasket™ (GG Series) and a Gripper FT™ Gasket (FT Series)?
GG Series gaskets are for use with Tyton Joint®¹ push-on ductile iron pipe, valves, and fittings, while FT Series gaskets are for use with American Fastite®² ductile iron pipe, valves, and fittings.
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Do you offer restraining gaskets in different elastomers?
Gripper restraining gaskets are available in SBR, as well as in EPDM and Nitrile (NBR) rubber. In fact, we stock the most complete inventory of specialty elastomers (EPDM & NBR) in the entire industry!
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What is the primary elastomer used in Gripper restraining gaskets?
SBR is the standard elastomer.
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Under what conditions is it acceptable to use SBR restraining gaskets?
SBR rubber gaskets are acceptable for use in most potable water systems.
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What other elastomers are available? Under what conditions are they recommended?
Gaskets are also available in Nitrile and EPDM rubber. Nitrile rubber is acceptable for use where oil, gas, or fluorocarbons may be present. EPDM rubber is acceptable for use in hot water applications and where chloramine resistance is required.
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What type of steel is used in Gripper restraining gasket teeth?
We utilize anticorrosive, high grade stainless steel, 100% made in the U.S., and American Iron & Steel (AIS) compliant. Download a SDS here.
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What industry approvals do Gripper restraining gaskets carry?
Gripper restraining gaskets are NSF/ANSI 61 certified, a UL recognized component, and tested in accordance with ANSI/AWWA C111/a21.11. All product pages have approvals listed under the “Specifications” tab. Click here for full list.
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Do Gripper restraining gaskets comply with ARRA/Buy America Act/Made in America requirements?
Gripper restraining gaskets are manufactured in accordance with the Buy America, 49 CFR 661.1, et seq. All components of the product must be of U.S. origin. A component is considered of U.S. origin if it is manufactured in the United States, regardless of the origin of its subcomponents.
Gripper Gaskets are manufactured in the United States of America as required by section 1605 of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Affidavit of Compliance available here.
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Do Gripper restraining gaskets comply with the American Iron and Steel (AIS) requirements?
All iron and steel found in the gaskets, produced in Corona, CA and Hendersonville, NC by Gripper Gasket LLC, meet the American Iron and Steel requirements set forth in:
The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2014 (Public Law 113-76) Water Resources Reform and Development Act amended the Clean Water Act (CWA) and The Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act of 2015 (Public Law 113-235).
Affidavit of Compliance available here.
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Does Gripper Gasket™ import raw materials used in manufacturing its products?
All raw materials are domestically sourced.
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Does Gripper Gasket™ provide material Safety Data Sheets (SDS)?
SDS documentation (where applicable) is available here.
Special Note:
Under the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), title 40, a “finished rubber article” is exempt from SDS reporting requirements. If used under normal conditions, this product is deemed safe. -
Can you provide a list of Municipal References for your restraining gaskets?
A list of Municipal References is available here.
- Where do I find Gripper restraining gasket submittals?
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What causes pipes with internal restraining gaskets to leak?
The following can lead to pipe leakage:
- The pipe spigot or bell is out of round
- The pipe is too porous or has pinhole leaks
- A gasket was “rolled” during installation
- The joint is over-deflected
- The spigot is “homed” too deeply in the bell, preventing any deflection
- The joint is pushed, not pulled, through a casing spacer
- There’s gravel or sand inside the bell prior to gasket installation
- Crooked field cuts and/or incorrect beveling of the spigot
- Damaged spigot ends
These examples are NOT gasket issues. Gripper Gasket operates around a strong ethical background and cares deeply about the end user, and every customer in-between. If we ever have issues with our product, you can rest assured that we’ll be the first to make things right.
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Has Gripper Gasket™ ever had a restraining gasket warranty claim?
Yes! And in every case the cause of the failure wasn’t a Gripper Gasket™, but contractor installation or a bad pipe or fitting – which the pipe manufacturer immediately acknowledged and subsequently took care of the customer with NO warranty fight whatsoever – even with a Gripper Gasket™ installed.
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What would happen if Gripper Gasket™ did have a valid warranty claim?
Gripper Gasket LLC is an established company with sound financial footing and backed by a top-rated insurance carrier. Should there be a warrantied failure, we would quickly step in to correct the issue exactly as our warranty states.
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For cold weather assemblies, is there a recommended temperature for maintaining the Gripper restraining gasket?
Keep the temperature of the gasket above 40° F.
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Can you disassemble a Gripper restraining gasket?
Disassembly Instructions can be found here.
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Can you reuse a Gripper restraining gasket?
Do not reuse Gripper Gaskets.
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Can Gripper restraining gaskets be used in above ground applications?
Gripper Gaskets are not for above ground use.
MAXADAPTOR® Couplings – FAQ
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Where are MAXADAPTOR® Couplings made?
MAXADAPTOR® Coupling gaskets are manufactured in Corona, California, U.S.A., and Germany.
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Where can you purchase MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
Our products are sold through wholesale distribution.
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How do I order MAXADAPTOR® products?
Contact your MAXADAPTOR® sales representative here.
- How do I find the MAXADAPTOR® sales representative in my area?
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Where do your couplings ship from?
Our local MAXADAPTOR® distributors carry inventory in-stock, however we also carry large inventories in both our CA and TN warehouses.
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What type of pipes can MAXADAPTOR® Couplings connect?
We manufacture non-pressure, gravity flow couplings to join any type of pipe material in sanitary sewer and drain waste & vent (DWV) applications.
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What type of steel is used in MAXADAPTOR® clamp assemblies?
We utilize corrosion resistant AISI 304 & 305 Series Stainless Steel clamp assemblies, American Iron & Steel (AIS) exempt. Download a SDS here.
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What type of plastic is used in MAXADAPTOR® securing cages?
We utilize a high-impact polyamide (nylon). Download a SDS here.
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What type of rubber is used in the production of MAXADAPTOR® gaskets?
We manufacture a one-piece, injection-molded EPDM rubber gasket. Download a SDS here.
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What is the Warranty Policy for MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
LIMITED WARRANTY: Gripper Gasket LLC warrants to the original Buyer that its products shall be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year and will replace defective product returned to it within that time.
Click here for more details.
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What industry approvals do MAXADAPTOR® Couplings carry?
MAXADAPTOR® Couplings carry domestic and international approvals such as, IAPMO listing and CSA B602 approval, as well as required ASTM standards. All product pages have approvals listed under the “Specifications” tab. Click here for full list.
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Do MAXADAPTOR® Couplings meet the applicable flexible sewer repair coupling standard, ASTM C1173?
MAXADAPTOR® Sewer Repair Couplings greatly exceed the hydrostatic testing requirements of ASTM C1173.
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What is the hydrostatic pressure rating, shear load, and deflection capabilities of MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
ASTM standards cover all variables that determine the hydrostatic pressure rating, shear load and deflection rating of each MAXADAPTOR® Coupling (e.g. specific application, local environment of application site, pipe materials and pipe sizes).
ASTM standards are listed under the “Specifications” tab on all product pages. If you have a specific request, please send us a message here.
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What is the hydrostatic pressure rating required according to ASTM C1173?
ASTM C1173 calls out for 4.3 psi (29.6 kPa) per 10-ft (3.05-m) head of water.
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What is the shear load rating required according to ASTM C1173?
ASTM C1173 calls out for 50 lbs. (22.7 kg) of weight/shear load to every inch of pipe nominal diameter. Therefore, for example, a 6“ pipe is required to withstand 300 lbs. of shear load.
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What is the maximum deflection rating required according to ASTM C1173?
ASTM C1173 calls out for no more than ⅜ inch (9.53 mm) of displacement from true alignment adjacent to the coupling. MAXADAPTOR® Coupling deflection is possible on each side, up to 3°.
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What is the maximum temperature tolerance of the MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
The maximum temperature tolerance is 250° F. Click here for letter.
- What is the required torque when installing MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
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Does Gripper Gasket™ recommend a hand-torque wrench brand?
We recommend and stock pre-set and calibrated Seekonk Torque Wrenches.
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Can I use a “torque gun” and/or “impact gun” to install MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
No, their use is greatly discouraged. “Torque guns” and/or “impact guns” have a tendency to over-torque the bands. We recommend installation with pre-set calibrated torque wrenches for all MAXADAPTOR® Couplings. Another option is to use a low operative-pressure cordless drill and finish off the installation with a pre-set calibrated torque wrench.
Torque requirements are listed on each product page under the Installation tab, as well as all Installation Instruction downloads here and here.
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Can the MAX Spanner Tool be used on all MAXADAPTOR® Coupling sizes?
The MAX Spanner Tool can be used to install 12“ and larger couplings.
- Is concrete encasing required after installation of MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
- Where do I find MAXADAPTOR® product submittals?
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Do MAXADAPTOR® Couplings have a list of Municipal References?
A list of Municipal References is available here.
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Do you have a Standard Pipe Sizes reference available for download?
Yes. Click here.
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What is the service life of the MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
We stand behind the integrity of our products and guarantee, that under proper installation and normal operating conditions, our products will last the life of the piping system. Service Life letter available here.
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What is the shelf life of the MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
The shelf life in a covered storage facility, at less than 80° F, and not exposed to sunlight is +/- 10 years.
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Do MAXADAPTOR® Couplings comply with the American Iron and Steel (AIS) requirements?
Our couplings are exempt from the requirements of the Consolidated Appropriation Act, 2014, H.R. 3547.ENR, use of American Iron and Steel, section 436. The stainless steel portion of the couplings represent less than 50% of the total construction and cost associated with the manufacturing of the coupling. Affidavit of Compliance available here.
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Are material Safety Data Sheets (SDS) available for MAXADAPTOR® Couplings?
SDS documentation (where applicable) is available here.
Special Note:
Under the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), title 40, a “finished rubber article” is exempt from SDS reporting requirements. If used under normal conditions, this product is deemed safe. -
Are there environmental benefits of rubber vs. PVC?
Gripper Gasket™ uses a combination of natural and synthetic rubber in its production process.
The toxicity of polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC), in contrast, has been reported throughout its existence. From production, through use, to disposal – PVC produces more dioxins than any other product. Dioxins are carcinogens and are highly toxic to the cells of our bodies. PVC IS BAD!!!