This specification covers joints for precast concrete pipe and box, and other sections using preformed flexible joint sealants for use in storm sewers and culverts which are not intended to operate under internal pressure, or are not subject to infiltration or exfiltration limits. Joint material used in horizontal applications is intended to prevent the flow of solids through the joint. For precast concrete manhole sections and other vertical structures, which are subject to internal or external pressure, infiltration or exfiltration limits are not prohibited from being specified. Joints in vertical structures are intended mainly to prevent the flow of solids or fluids through the joint. Bitumen sealants shall be produced from asphalts, hydrocarbon resins and plasticizing compounds reinforced with inert mineral filler and shall contain no solvents. Butyl rubber sealants shall be produced from blends of butyl rubber and refined hydrocarbon resins and plasticizing compounds reinforced with inert mineral filler and shall contain no solvents. The joint sealant shall not depend on oxidizing, evaporating, or chemical action for its adhesive or cohesive strength and shall be supplied preformed and of suitable cross section and size to seal the joint annular space when the sections are joined. For a given joint size, the sealing material, as furnished, shall be such so as to encircle the outside circumference of the spigot or tongue of the joint or the inside circumference of the bell or groove and shall not be stretched when seated in the joint. Sealant material shall be furnished in the required length and cross-dimensions, and the dimensions shall be clearly marked. The joint design shall consist of a bell or groove on one end of the section and a spigot or tongue on the adjacent end of the joining section. All surfaces of the joint upon or against which the sealant will bear shall be free of spalls, cracks or fractures, and imperfections that would adversely affect the function of the joint. The joints of the sections shall be of such design that they will withstand the forces caused by the compression of the sealant when joined, without cracking or fracturing when tested. In order to determine the composition and physical properties of bitumen or butyl sealants, the following tests shall be performed: bitumen and butyl rubber chemical analysis, ash-inert mineral matter test, specific gravity test, ductility test, softening point test, penetration test, flash point and fire point test, chemical resistance test, and compression-recovery of tape sealant test.

1.1 This specification covers joints for precast concrete pipe and box, and other sections using preformed flexible joint sealants for use in storm sewers and culverts which are not intended to operate under internal pressure, or are not subject to infiltration or exfiltration limits. Joint material used in horizontal applications is intended to prevent the flow of solids through the joint.

1.2 For precast concrete manhole sections and other vertical structures, which are subject to internal or external pressure, infiltration or exfiltration limits are not prohibited from being specified. Joints in vertical structures covered by this specification are intended mainly to prevent the flow of solids or fluids through the joint.

1.3 This specification is to be used with pipe and structures conforming in all respects to Specifications C 14, C 76, C 478, C 506, C 507, C 655, C 985, C 1433, C 1504, and C 1577, provided that if there is a conflict in permissible variations in dimensions, the requirements of this specification shall govern.

1.4 This specification is the inch-pound companion to C 990M; therefore, no SI equivalents are presented in the specification.

Note 1—This specification covers the material and performance of the joint and sealant only. Infiltration and exfiltration quantities for installed sections are dependent on factors other than the joints which must be covered by other specifications and suitable testing of the installed pipeline.

1.5 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.