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Barrier systems such as barrier balloons, barrier discs, and more for pipes and sewers, direct from the manufacturer
Are you looking for a reliable shut-off system to seal a pipe cleanly and tightly, whether temporarily for cleaning, renovation, or leak testing, or in an emergency to minimize damage? At G. Drexl, you’ll find the complete range from a single source: short and long adjustable shut-off sleeves for diameters ranging from approximately 20 to 1,200 mm, shut-off discs with bypass from 38 to 700 mm, shut-off plugs for small plumbing lines, high-pressure bladders rated at 6 bar, test bladders for leak testing, the complete house connection test kit according to DIN EN 1610, as well as original CHERNE test balls and matching accessories. Since 1986, we have been manufacturing shut-off technology at our production center in Bad Abbach near Regensburg—“Made in Germany”—with free shipping within Germany.
Do you need assistance, have questions, or would you like a quote? Feel free to call us for a free consultation.
Shut-off balloons and pipe sealing cushions for any pipeline
Shut-off balloons, also known as pipe sealing cushions, sewer balloons, or pipe closure balloons, pneumatically seal pipes: The balloon is inserted into the pipe and inflated via a tire valve or a compressed air coupling until it fits tightly against the pipe wall. The profiled, durable rubber adapts even to uneven inner pipe surfaces and ensures a secure hold. Our short blocking balloons in fixed DN sizes are ideal for precisely sealing smaller pipes, while long variable sealing bladders with a compressed air coupling cover a wide range of diameters and can be flexibly adjusted to different pipe sizes. Where higher pressure requirements exist, our high-pressure barriers rated at 6 bar are used. In addition, we carry the original CHERNE test balls with chain and ring for particularly rugged applications. All balls are reusable multiple times and can be used in a temperature range from -20 °C to +60 °C.
Shut-off discs and shut-off plugs – mechanical shut-off
Where a pneumatic solution is not practical or a rigid, defined shut-off is desired, shut-off discs and shut-off plugs are the right choice. Our shut-off discs with bypass, also known as test discs or shut-off plates, are available in sizes from 38 to 700 mm and are suitable for all common pipe types. The integrated bypass port allows for pressure or leak testing to be performed in parallel with the shut-off without having to remove the disc. For smaller plumbing and domestic installation lines, we offer robust shut-off plugs in 12, 19, 25, and 32 mm, ideal for quick and secure sealing prior to maintenance or plumbing work.
Which shut-off system for which task?
The following overview shows at a glance which solution is best suited for which application:
| Product type | Diameter range | Typical application |
|---|---|---|
| Short Shut-off Bladder | DN 50 to 300 mm | Precise sealing in tight building connections and plumbing areas |
| Long Shut-off Bladder, variable | DN 35 to 1,200 mm | Flexible shut-off across wide DN ranges, sewer and civil engineering |
| High-pressure bladder 6 bar | Various DN | Applications with increased pressure requirements |
| Shut-off disc with bypass | 38 to 700 mm | Mechanical shut-off with parallel pressure/leak test |
| Shut-off plug | 12 to 32 mm | Small plumbing and domestic installation lines |
| CHERNE Test Ball | from approx. 20 mm | Premium test balls with chain and ring for compact applications |
| House connection test kit EN 1610 | House connection | Complete system for leak testing according to standard |
What our customers say about us
On the independent review platform AUSGEZEICHNET.org, over 3,400 customers have rated us an average of 5.0 out of 5 stars. The reviews come from tradespeople, plumbing companies, industrial firms, and municipal utilities; every single review is verified for authenticity. Clicking on the seal opens the full review overview.
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Leak testing in accordance with DIN EN 1610
DIN EN 1610 requires leak testing of sewer systems and connection pipes using water or air for new construction and renovation projects. Our test bladders with bypass are specifically designed for these tests: The integrated passage allows the test medium to be applied in a controlled manner without releasing the shut-off valve. For the most common application in the service connection area, we offer the EN 1610 Service Connection Test Kit, a complete, ready-to-use set. This saves on procurement costs and ensures that all necessary components are compatible with one another.
Typical applications of our shut-off systems
Our shut-off systems are used wherever pipes and ducts need to be sealed in a controlled manner, both in routine professional operations and in emergencies. These include temporary shut-off during cleaning and flushing operations, preparation for renovation and repair work, leak testing in accordance with DIN EN 1610 on newly laid or renovated pipes, backflow prevention and flood protection in both private and public areas, as well as emergency operations where leaking substances must be quickly stopped to prevent environmental damage. Our typical users include municipal utilities, plumbers and plumbing shops, civil engineering and renovation companies, as well as industrial plants.
Your German manufacturer of shut-off technology – Made in Germany since 1986
Since 1986, we have been developing and manufacturing shut-off technology at our production center in Bad Abbach near Regensburg. Our bladders are made of durable rubber with anti-slip grooves, are reusable multiple times, and are partially chemical-resistant in many cases. You can find the specific resistance levels against individual media in the tables on the respective product detail pages. We also offer matching accessories such as our floor pump with pressure gauge, air pressure extension hoses, and tire valve adapters. This way, you get the complete, ready-to-use system from a single source. Free consultation via our hotline, free shipping within Germany, and leasing for commercial customers upon request round out the offer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blocking Systems
How Does a Blocking Bladder Work?
A shut-off bladder is inserted into the pipe and inflated with air via a tire valve or a compressed air coupling. The profiled rubber body fits tightly against the pipe wall and temporarily seals the line. Once the job is done, the air is released and the bladder is removed.
What is the difference between a shut-off balloon and a shut-off disc?
Shut-off balloons provide a pneumatic seal by being inflated. They are flexible and conform to the pipe wall. Shut-off discs provide a mechanical seal by being placed in front of the pipe end or into a flange. Discs with a bypass hole also allow for a parallel pressure or leak test.
Which shut-off bladder is suitable for leak testing according to DIN EN 1610?
For tests according to DIN EN 1610, test bladders with a bypass are the right choice: The integrated passage allows for the controlled application of the test medium. For the building service connection area, we offer the EN 1610 building service connection test kit as a ready-to-use complete solution.
Are the shut-off bladders reusable?
Yes, our shut-off bladders are designed for repeated, professional use. When the specified pressure values are observed and they are properly cleaned after use, they are durable and can be used for a long time.
What pressure classes do you offer?
Our standard shut-off bladders cover common applications in the sewer and plumbing sectors. Where higher pressures are required, high-pressure balloons rated at 6 bar are available separately. The exact values for maximum inflation and back pressure can be found on the respective product detail page.
How large does the barrier balloon need to be in relation to the pipe?
Each balloon is designed for a specific pipe diameter range: For short bladders, these are fixed DN sizes with a narrow tolerance range; for long variable bladders, a wide range (e.g., DN 70 to 150 mm). Always select the model whose range includes your pipe’s inner diameter. If you are unsure, we will advise you free of charge.
Do you need assistance, have questions, or would you like a quote? Feel free to call us for a free consultation.