Sarco has pioneered the introduction of bagging off Systems for water mains since its initial approach to Yorkshire Water in 1996.

After years of development work the first Aquastop Flow Stopping System for water mains was awarded an Innovation Award in 1999.

This very mature technique in the Gas Sector was initially very slow to be approved. During the following years improvements to both bag materials and further simplifying the launching by pass equipment coupled with ever increasing market regulation to minimise leaks and avoid interruption of service with minimal excavation has finally seen a renewed interest for the new Aquastop MKII and further novel bagging off system for hydrants. Both use the Sarco Hydro® bag. Further design enhancements include a single service 'Hydra' bags ensure both types of bag are water inflated using the pressure from the water mains they are stopping.

These new and revolutionary flow stopping & by pass systems deliver major benefits at lower costs than alternatives & open up the option of Hydrants becoming permanent 'Zero Dig' points for pipeline repair, service & testing.

These new systems have been extensively trialled with Yorkshire Water and were launched at the Aquatech Exhibition in Amsterdam in October 2008.

These systems also use Saddles & Tees and Sarco has a quality range of fittings and other under pressure equipment including straps and drilling machines.