| 摘要 |
<p>A method and apparatus for testing a plumbing system (20) and for removing obstructions (70) in a plumbing line (44). During the rough-in plumbing phase of construction (Fig. 1), the drain pipe (44, 46, 48) from the plumbing system (20) in a building (22) to the main city sewer line (38) is positively sealed off by a test cap (70) welded in the pipe at the location of the clean-out (56), access to which is maintained through the clean-out (56). Pressurizing the rough-in plumbing to test proceeds. If any leaks occur, they are in the branch plumbing (26) on the building side of the test cap, and not at or in the test cap. Following successful completion of the initial test, the top-out plumbing is completed, leaving the test cap (70) welded in the clean-out (56) or drain pipe (44). After the roof vents are in, the second test of the plumbing system (20) is made. If the system shows any leaks, they are the result of a failure in the plumbing and not a failure of the test cap (70). After final test and inspection, a special tool or apparatus (100) in accordance with the present invention is inserted down the clean-out (56) to penetrate and ream-out the test cap (70), so that the drain pipe is opened (174) and provides a passageway (180) through which the waste can flow to the sewer line (38).</p> |
