Jul 26, 2016

A proposed new ASTM International standard, WK39447, Specification for Metric Outside Diameter Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pressure Pipe (DR-PN), will cover premier high density polyethylene compounds that will be used in a variety of plastic piping systems throughout the world.

According to ASTM member William Adams, an independent consultant, WK39477 will be limited to covering only high-density polyethylene compounds that are both:

"The resulting metric-sized PE4710/PE100 pipes have unsurpassed performance capabilities for the pressure or non-pressure transport of liquid, gaseous or multiphase fluid media," says Adams. The ASTM and ISO procedures are both used in different regions of the world. WK39477 will provide HDPE pipe that complies with both stress-rating preferences.

According to Adams, both industrialized and developing nations can use the HDPE piping described in WK39477 for the following purposes:

Primary users of WK39477, once it has been approved, will be specifiers, manufacturers, private and municipal designers and engineers, and federal, state and local authorities.

"The proposed standard establishes material and product requirements, and tests for verification of compliance," says Adams. "Manufacturers are required to have a written quality assurance program that controls manufacture and compliance verification. A mandatory annex in WK39477 assures joining compatibility with fittings and pipeline appurtenances."

Finally, Adams notes, the proposed standard will provide guidance for temperature and environmental effects that will assist designers.

WK39447 is being developed by Subcommittee F17.26 on Olefin Based Pipe, part of ASTM International Committee F17 on Plastic Piping Systems. All interested parties are invited to assist in the development of WK39447 and other F17 standards.

CONTACT Technical Information: William Adams, WSS Consulting • Terre Haute, Ind. • Phone: 812-236-7791 | ASTM Staff: Robert Morgan • Phone: 610-832-9732 | Upcoming Meeting: Nov. 10-13 • November Committee Week • New Orleans, La.