On Dec. 10, 2001, ASTM Committee F17 on Plastic Pipe Systems approved F 2159, Standard Specification for Plastic Insert Fittings Utilizing a Copper Crimp Ring for SDR9 Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing.

According to committee member Matthew D. Cantrell, piping specialists developed the standard to provide a corrosion-resistant alternative to brass or copper insert fitting systems in the PEX plumbing market. “Users will be able to specify a fitting design compatible with any CTS-OD controlled SDR9 PEX that is non-metallic and is therefore compatible with even the most aggressive water chemistry,” he said.

Cantrell, a product engineer, developed the specification with PEX manufacturers, injection-molding engineers, applications engineers, plastics consultants, and materials specialists under the guidelines of ASTM Subcommittee F17.10 on Fittings.

For further technical information, contact Lenny Miller, Vanguard Piping Systems, Inc., McPherson, Kan. (phone: 800/774-5237, ext. 211). Committee F17 meets April 15-18 in Pittsburgh, Pa. For meeting or membership details, contact Pat Picariello, manager, ASTM Technical Committee Operations (phone: 610/832-9720). //

Copyright 2002, ASTM