Genuine Bauer quick coupling pipe fittings have been a worldwide success for nearly 80 years, proving essential for industries ranging from construction to mining to food preparation. As with any popular product, many attempts have been made to copy the Genuine Bauer quick coupler over the years. However, none of these “Bauer style” imitations have reached the quality and durability of the original. If you don’t know exactly what to look for, it can be easy to be fooled by an inferior product!
As a leading supplier of true Genuine Bauer quick coupling hose and pipe fittings in North America, Wolf Creek knows the Bauer product line inside and out. We want our customers to discover the Bauer difference, too!
So, how can you tell Genuine Bauer products apart from knock-offs? Here are five simple ways to know if you have the real deal, or if you’ve got a cheap imitation on your hands:
#1: “Genuine Bauer” is Stamped on the Handle
The first and easiest way to determine if you have a true Genuine Bauer fitting is to take a look at the handle. If it’s not stamped with “BAUER,” it’s not an authentic Genuine Bauer fitting. (Be careful, some knock-offs will have a stamp with a switched letter to try and trick you!)
#2: Welded Straps vs. Rivets
Next, move the lever back and forth. Does it have a lot of “play” or flexibility when you move it? Is the lever attached to the ring portion of the fitting with welded straps, or is it fastened using rivets? Genuine Bauer levers feature welded straps, which do not wear out or stretch, ensuring longer life and a stronger connection.
Meanwhile, “Bauer style” imitators use rivets to hold the lever arms onto the ring. Over time, these rivet holes can become weak and sloppy, which can make the lever arm loose and cause a potential leak on the joint. That’s the last thing you want when managing a temporary piping system for a construction project or emergency response.
#3: Bull Nose Lever
Another key feature to look for on your temporary pipe fittings is the signature Genuine Bauer square “bullnose” lever. This is what keeps the Genuine Bauer lever locked into place and secure in the closed position. “Bauer style” fittings don’t have a square nose and instead require a locking pin to stay closed. If the locking pin becomes loose or isn’t placed correctly, the fitting can easily come open.
#4: Made to Last
True Genuine Bauer fittings are designed to endure the toughest jobs. Fabricated from high-strength steel, Bauer fittings can last for upwards of ten years and withstand high heat, pressure, suction, and other stresses. On the other hand, we’ve seen knock-offs only last about six weeks before they become weak, loose, and ineffective. While imitation pipe fittings may save you a little money upfront, you’ll likely end up paying more in the long run for replacement parts. That’s not to mention the implications caused by potential delays, injuries, or pipe system failures on the job site. It’s well worth investing in high-quality, reliable temporary pipe fittings from the start!
#5: Try the Drop Test
Each of the steps above will tell you if you have a true Genuine Bauer fitting or not. But if you’re still not convinced, you could always try the drop test. Simply hold the fitting above your head and allow it to drop to the ground. Every time we’ve done this test, the knock-off product has dented (or worse) while the true Genuine Bauer fitting remains intact. That’s what you can expect from the industry’s best fitting!
Where to Find True Genuine Bauer Pipe Fittings
Wondering where to buy Genuine Bauer fittings for your next temporary piping project? Look no further than Wolf Creek Portable Piping Products! With one of the largest inventories of true Genuine Bauer fittings in North America, we have you covered for projects of any size and scope.
Do you have a question about an upcoming portable piping project, or need help developing a custom solution? Use our contact form to get in touch today. Our team of portable piping experts is always here to help. We make it easy!