Typical Repair

It is noted that one water utility employing a circumferentially bolted coupling mechanical coupling for repair continues to prefer an electrofusion type connection for general repair situations, due to its perceived long-term reliability. However, the preferred repair procedure in an emergency (e.g., hydrant repair) situation, or if a "fusion joint cannot be achieved", is the mechanical alternative, indicating the impracticality of the fusion procedure when the utility does not have the luxury of being able to provide clean, dry conditions.

(Courtesy EBMUD)
Typical Repair Guidelines