PE Squeeze-Off Tools and Copper Shut-Off Tools for Gas and Water Service
Shut-off tools temporarily stop flow in the pipe so utility crews can perform maintenance, tie-ins, and repairs without draining the line. PE squeeze-off tools compress polyethylene pipe flat between two parallel squeeze bars until the inner walls meet and flow stops. The pipe returns to its original shape after the tool is removed. Copper shut-off tools crimp soft copper tube flat and can reround it afterward to restore approximately 70 to 75 percent of flow.
PE squeeze-off tools follow ASTM F1041 for controlled gas and water distribution maintenance. Water service shut-off tools provide quick-action clamping for emergency PE pipe repairs. Copper shut-off tools handle Type K service line isolations.
PE Squeeze-Off Tools
PE squeeze-off tools are the standard method for isolating polyethylene gas distribution lines and water service lines during planned maintenance, tie-in work, and service replacements. The polyethylene squeeze-off procedure follows ASTM F1041 (operating procedure) and ASTM F1563 (tool specification). All four models use positive stops to prevent over-squeezing and protect pipe integrity.
- PES1IPS/CTS PE Squeeze-Off Tool (1/2" to 1" PE): Compact single-bar tool with a four-sided stop covering three IPS and three CTS sizes on one unit.
- PES2 PE Squeeze-Off Tool (1/2" to 2" CTS PE): Double-bar design with fine-thread feed screw and rotating safety stops for controlled compression on residential and mid-range distribution pipe.
- PES2IPSDB PE Squeeze-Off Tool (1/2" to 2" IPS PE): Double-bar design for IPS-standard polyethylene pipe.
- PES2DBM PE Squeeze-Off Tool (metric PE): Double-bar design for metric-dimensioned PE pipe per ISO 4437.
PE Water Shut-Off Tools
A water service shut-off tool clamps PE pipe shut to stop water flow during emergency repairs. These are quick-action tools for PE water service only. They are not rated for gas.
- PES0 PE Water Shut-Off Tool (3/4" to 1" PE): Zinc-plated water service shut-off tool with latching mechanism and knurled grip, the lightest and most compact option for emergency field repairs.
- SSO1C Standing Shut-Off Tool (3/4" to 1" PE): Standing shut-off tool with 30-inch handles and chain closure for above-ditch or hard-to-reach locations.
Copper Shut-Off Tools
A copper shut-off tool crimps soft copper tube (Type K) to stop water flow during service line repairs. After the repair, the bottom opening of the tool rerounds the tube to restore approximately 70 to 75 percent of original flow. These tools work on soft copper tube only. They are not for PE, rigid copper, or other metals.
- CSO1R Copper Shut-Off (3/4" to 1" copper): Steel body with ratchet drive handle and carrying case.
- CSO2R Copper Shut-Off Tool (1-1/4" to 2" copper): Anodized aluminum body with detachable ratchet handle, lighter weight for larger tube sizes.
How to Choose the Right Shut-Off Tool
Start with the pipe material. For polyethylene pipe, choose a PE squeeze-off tool for controlled gas or water maintenance, or a PE shut-off tool for emergency water repairs. For a soft copper tube, choose a copper shut-off tool.
Next, match the tool to the pipe diameter. For PE squeeze-off tools, confirm whether the pipe follows CTS (copper tube size) or IPS (iron pipe size) dimensions. Each standard has a different outside diameter for the same nominal size, and each requires matching safety stops.
| Model | Pipe Material | Size Range |
|---|---|---|
| PES1IPS/CTS | PE (CTS + IPS) | 1/2" to 1" |
| PES2 | PE (CTS) | 1/2" to 2" |
| PES2IPSDB | PE (IPS) | 1/2" to 2" |
| PES2DBM | PE (metric) | 20-63 mm |
| PES0 | PE | 3/4" to 1" |
| SSO1C | PE | 3/4" to 1" |
| CSO1R | Copper (Type K) | 3/4" to 1" |
| CSO2R | Copper (Type K) | 1-1/4" to 2" |
Buy Reed Shut Off Tools Online from Cleanflow
Cleanflow Utility Supply Company is an authorized Reed Manufacturing dealer. Buy Reed tools online with free shipping on orders over $199 across Canada and the USA. Returns accepted within 30 days. Email info@cleanflow.ca for product questions or volume pricing.
Reed shut-off tools ship from our Winnipeg warehouse. For the full lineup of pipe cutters, threaders, and waterworks equipment, browse the Reed Tools Canada collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PE squeeze-off tool?
A PE squeeze-off tool temporarily stops flow in a polyethylene pipe by compressing it flat between two parallel bars. Utility crews use it for planned maintenance, tie-ins, and service replacements on gas and water distribution lines. The pipe returns to shape after the tool is removed.
Squeeze-off tool vs shut-off tool: what is the difference?
A squeeze-off tool compresses PE pipe flat between parallel bars using a feed screw at a controlled rate for planned gas and water maintenance. A water service shut-off tool uses a quick-action clamp to stop water flow during emergencies. Shut-off tools are lighter but cover water service only.
What size squeeze-off tool do I need?
Match the tool to the pipe diameter. The PES1 covers 1/2" to 1" PE. The PES2 covers 1/2" to 2" PE. For copper, the CSO1R fits 3/4" to 1" tube and the CSO2R fits 1-1/4" to 2". Confirm whether the PE pipe is CTS or IPS before selecting stops.
How does a squeeze-off tool work?
The feed screw drives two parallel bars together, compressing PE pipe flat at no more than 2 inches per minute. Positive stops limit bar travel to prevent over-squeezing for the specific pipe diameter and SDR. The release rate must not exceed 1/2 inch per minute.
Can you use a squeeze-off tool on copper pipe?
No. PE squeeze-off tools are for polyethylene pipe only. For copper service lines, use a copper shut-off tool from the CSO series. A copper shut-off tool crimps the tube flat, then rerounds it to restore approximately 70 to 75 percent of flow.