Rationale

This project is to revise the definition of PE-RT that is currently in F412. The current definition is ambiguous and does not lend itself to standardization. The proposed revision will provide greater clarity to the term PE-RT thus making it more suitable for use in ASTM and industry standardization efforts. This is project 91-22-03 within sub-committee F17.91. The current definition for polyethylene plastics of raised temperature resistance (PE-RT) does not lend itself to standardization initiatives within the industry as it currently does not establish a specific temperature for designation as a PE-RT polyethylene plastic. This results in a material with a stress rating at 140.1° F (60.06° C) or a material with a stress rating at 155.2° F (68.4° C) (for example) both being designated as PE-RT plastics. However, the performance capabilities of these two plastics may be technically quite different. The current definition also creates confusion between those plastics that are designated PE-RT and those that are designated as PEX. To better support standardization within the industry and avoid confusion and/or potential misuse by the designer or end-user, the following revision to the current definition is proposed. Deletions are shown as strikethrough and additions are shown in red with underline