This specification covers the minimum performance and material requirements for resilient connectors used for connections between reinforced concrete manholes and pipes, between wastewater structures and pipes, and between precast reinforced concrete pipe and laterals. These connectors are designed to minimize leakage between the pipe and manhole, and between the pipe and lateral. Materials for connectors and filler rings shall be manufactured from natural or synthetic rubber and shall conform to the resilient material test requirements for chemical resistance, tensile strength, elongation at break, hardness, accelerated oven-aging, compression set, water absorption, ozone resistance, low-temperature brittle point, and tear resistance. Expansion rings, tension bands, and take-up devices used for mechanical compression of connectors shall be made from a material or materials in combination that will ensure durability, strength, resistance to corrosion, and have properties that will ensure continued resistance to leakage. The design of the connector shall be such that positive seal is accomplished at two locations: (1) between the connector and the wall of the manhole or wastewater structure and (2) between the connector and the pipe. For lateral to pipe connectors, the design of the connector shall be such that a positive seal is accomplished at two locations: (1) between the connector and the pipe wall and (2) between the connector and the lateral. The acceptability of the resilient connector shall be determined by the results of the test methods prescribed in this specification.

1.1 This specification covers the minimum performance and material requirements for resilient connectors used for connections between reinforced concrete manholes conforming to Specification C 478 and pipes, between wastewater structures and pipes, and between precast reinforced concrete pipe and laterals.

1.1.1 These connectors are designed to minimize leakage between the pipe and manhole, and between the pipe and lateral.

1.2 A complete metric companion to Specification C 923 has been developed—C 923M; therefore, no metric equivalents are presented in this specification.

Note 1—This specification covers the design, material, and performance of the resilient connection only. Connections covered by this specification are adequate for hydrostatic pressures up to 13 psi (30 ft) without leakage when tested in accordance with Section 7. Infiltration or exfiltration quantities for an installed system are dependent upon many factors other than the connections between manhole structures and pipe, and allowable quantities must be covered by other specifications and suitable testing of the installed pipeline and system.

1.3 The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 7, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precaution statement, see 7.2.5.