These specialized fittings are essential components in backflow prevention assemblies. They provide designated access points for testing the functionality and integrity of the device. Typically constructed from brass or stainless steel to resist corrosion, these fittings allow technicians to connect testing equipment to measure pressure differentials and verify the proper operation of check valves within the assembly. Examples include standard sizes and thread types compatible with common testing gauges and equipment.
Their implementation is critical for ensuring potable water systems remain free from contamination. By facilitating accurate testing, these components help verify that backflow prevention devices are effectively preventing the reverse flow of potentially polluted water. Regular testing, made possible by these access points, is often mandated by local and national plumbing codes to safeguard public health. Historically, the development and standardization of these fittings have paralleled the increasing awareness of backflow risks and the evolution of backflow prevention technologies.
