Q: Can we use flexible grout tubing?
A: Flexible tubing is not recommended because the grouting crew may have to clear a plugged port in the field. It is much easier to clear a straight tube with a rod or drill bit. If you must use a flexible tube, make sure the interior is smooth and the tubing as stiff as possible to minimize the risk of collapse. Check all tubing in the plant before shipping precast to the field. Field crews should check tubing on the truck before erecting.

Q: How do you attach PVC tubing to the sleeve?
A: The preferred method is to use thick PVC cement. You can also use electrical tape wrapped around the end to wedge and seal the tube in the sleeve’s port for short lengths (less than 6”).

Q: How much do you tighten the sleeve setter (STR-CT)?
A: The setter should be just tight enough that the sleeve cannot be rotated by hand. Over-tightening is not a problem. The Setter Rubber (SR) just wears out faster. It is recommended that you release the cams before overnight curing to prolong rubber life.

Q: How do I know the factory rebar is properly embedded?
A: The NMB has Bar-Stops in the middle of the sleeve to set the embedment length. It is also recommended to mark the bar using a jig tube such that the mark appears just outside the Rubber Plug (RP) as a visual pre-pour check

Q: We are using #11U-X sleeves to connect #9 rebar. Any precautions?
A: Check the Rubber Plug (RP) to make sure it is sealing around the bar as it enters the sleeve. Add duct tape or wrap the RP with a tie wire to make sure the seal is tight. Make sure the bar is fully embedded in the sleeve (see answer above).

Q: Do I have to saw cut rebar going into NMB Splice-Sleeves®?
A: No, you can use a saw, shear or torch.

Q: What do we do if we lose some accessories?
A: Those accessories can be re-ordered separately. For emergency measure;If you lose the Rubber Plug (RP), cut tubular foam pipe insulation into donuts and duct tape them to the end of the sleeve and bar. See the procedure in the User’s Manual for the #18U sleeve. Duct tape can also be used to cap the grout tubes. You can substitute ½” and ¾” ASTM Schedule 40 PVC tubing for our standard metric tubing, but you will have to bevel grind the ends of the ½” size to fit the port. The Grout Washer is used in the field and can be re-ordered and shipped overnight.