Bear Hug PE Squeeze Tool, Hydraulic

Bear Hug™ from REED is a modular squeeze tool system for PE using hydraulic cylinders for an industry-leading 83,400 pounds (371,000 N) of squeeze force. The pumps and base tool are rated for 10,000 psi. Based on job needs, choose from an air-over hydraulic pump PESAPA (#04330) or manual hand pump PESMPA (#04329) to work with the PES8BT or PES8BTM base tool. Due to the tool size, REED recommends two-person operation.

REED Bear Hug features a double bar configuration for most confident squeeze. In addition to more secure flow stoppage, a double point squeeze is safer as it lessens any chance of pipe damage. A bottom swing-out bar with latch allows for simple pipe enclosure. Compact and lightweight (for the industry) at 175 pounds, the PES8BT or PE8BTM can be lifted into position with its oversized U-bolt.

The double-acting system is designed to squeeze and release with hydraulic pump. No more reliance on internal springs for retraction since those spring systems are more prone to wear over time. Color-coded stops increase visibility of stop sizes and help operator quickly confirm that stops are set properly, thus reducing user error. The pipe centering arrows aid in alignment.

PES8BT base tool includes stops for 3 to 8 inch PE pipe in common DR sizes for North America pipe sizes. Plus, SDR 9 size is new for REED on PES8BT. The PES8BTM model includes two sets of stops for metric pipe. All PE squeeze tools use positive stops to prevent damage caused by over-clamping.

Multiple size/SDR settings on one pair of stops provide quick, convenient over-squeeze protection for standard pipe sizes. Removable carry handles reduce tool width when extra space is needed. Attached saddle clamps remain with the tool, eliminating lost clamps. With its 12-ft hoses, the pump can be set at ground level, above the squeeze tool.

For safety, there is a choice of two grounding rod installation spots. NOTES: REED Squeeze Tools for all US nominal pipe sizes follow these standards: ASTM F1041, ASTM F1563. REED strongly recommends use of the PEGR7 Static Grounding Device (#04621) with PE Squeeze-Off Tools. Use a grounding device as a precaution against static build-up.

Dissipate the charge and minimize the possibility of ignition. WARNING: Cold temperatures can affect the pipe integrity during the squeeze. Squeeze and releases rates need to be slowed in temperatures below 50˚F (10˚C). Cold temperatures can affect the squeeze (below 50˚F (10˚C)) and result in a less than desirable flow control.

Give adequate time for the pipe to relax during the squeeze (5-15 min) and perform a double squeeze if necessary. REED’s Bear Hug™ design for a hydraulic squeeze tool is lighter and offers more force output than comparable models. It is modular with a choice of pumps, that increases portability and ease of use. Additionally, the Bear Hug™ system features double bar squeeze points which are optimized for best flow control performance.