So yesterday the friggin low-bid excavation contrator where I work decided to smash one of our pump station force mains. We had to cut out a section of pipe and install a new piece with stainless repair clamps. It was 6" ID cast iron if that makes a difference.
The plumbing inspector, while not saying it was against code, was basically telling us that the repair clamps have a rated life-expectancy, and he was against approving this repair to be buried again.
We pulled the cut-sheets from the clamps, and called the manufacturer today, and they have no life-expectancy rating. They will last "for life" according to them.
We then forwarded the cut-sheets and an email from the manufacturer stating such. He still refuses to approve them for permanent use.
Has anyone here ever heard of one of these clamps failing when installed right? Can anyone point me to another reference that might have a life- expectancy, or specifically states there is none?
I don't have the cut-sheet in front of me, but the clamps were made by Mueller. They have rubber against the pipe, then stainless steel sheathing with 4 7/8" stainless bolts to clamp.
Thanks.
Oh, and if I can't find anything else, can someone suggest a way to fight the inspector on this? I really don't want to fight him if he is right, but I can't seem to prove that just yet.