Simplifies installation and storage without compromising performance
Smithfield, NC, August 14, 2025 — OPW Retail Fueling, a global leader in fluid-handling solutions, today announced the launch of its 71SO Segmented Drop Tube, the latest innovation in overfill prevention technology. Designed to raise the bar in installation efficiency and logistical ease, the segmented version of the OPW Retail Fueling 71SO Overfill Prevention Valve offers all the performance benefits of the original – now in a more flexible, shippable and user-friendly format.
Building on the success of the CARB-certified 71SO Overfill Prevention Valve, which has become an industry standard for its automatic operation, vapor-tight integrity and ease of installation, the new 71SO Segmented Drop Tube enhances convenience by dividing the drop tube into four interlocking sections. This modular design allows for:
- Easier Shipping and Storage: The compact, segmented format significantly reduces packaging size, simplifies logistics and minimizes freight costs.
- Simplified Onsite Assembly: Installers can easily piece together the drop tube onsite without the need for special tools, heavy machinery, or additional manpower.
- No Compromise on Performance: The 71SO Segmented Drop Tube retains the original model’s breakthrough two-stage positive shut-off mechanism, ensuring the same reliable overfill prevention with no pre-checks, resets, or overrides.
“At OPW Retail Fueling, we are fueled by excellence and guided by a commitment to making our customers’ operations safer, smarter and more sustainable,” said Ed Kammerer, Vice President, Global Product Marketing at OPW Retail Fueling. “The new 71SO Segmented Drop Tube is a direct result of that commitment. It reduces installation time, shipping challenges and labor costs, all while continuing to offer the best-in-class overfill prevention that customers have come to expect from OPW Retail Fueling.”
The 71SO Segmented Drop Tube is ideal for both new and retrofit applications, compatible with 4-inch fill risers. The four 5-foot segments can be customized to fit tank diameters of 8-12 feet, with an overall length exceeding 223 inches. It is available in multiple configurations to meet site-specific needs: Testable and Non-Testable, as well as vapor-tight and Non-Vapor-Tight.
The 71SO Overfill Prevention Valve offers numerous advantages over antiquated overfill warning systems. Installation is streamlined and cost-effective, requiring no excavation or special manholes. Its automatic shut-off activates when the tank reaches 95% capacity, significantly reducing the risk of spills. A bypass valve enables topping off at a rate of 98% through a reduced flow rate of 5 gpm, after which the valve closes completely to halt delivery. The system operates without relying on internal tank pressure, allowing for faster and safer fueling. By keeping the top of the tank dry, the design also meets EPA compliance for leak prevention, eliminating the need for additional containment or vent lines.
To learn more about OPW Retail Fueling products and expertise, please visit opwglobal.com/opw-retail-fueling.
About OPW Retail Fueling
OPW Retail Fueling is Fueled By Excellence through innovations designed to enhance safety, reliability, efficiency and business performance for the retail-fueling industry. Specifically, OPW Retail Fueling makes aboveground and underground fuel-handling products for both conventional, vapor-recovery and clean-energy applications in the retail and commercial fuel markets. OPW Retail Fueling is part of OPW, a leading equipment manufacturer in the retail-fueling, clean-energy, fluid-handling and vehicle wash industries. OPW has manufacturing operations in North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia Pacific, with sales offices around the world. OPW is part of Dover Corporation. To learn more about how OPW Retail Fueling is Fueled By Excellence in each of its markets, please visit opwglobal.com/opw-retail-fueling.