The external loading properties of plastic pipe obtained by this test method are used for the following:

To determine the stiffness of the pipe. This is a function of the pipe dimensions and the physical properties of the material of which the pipe is made.

To determine the load-deflection characteristics and pipe stiffness which are used for engineering design (see Appendix X1).

To compare the characteristics of various plastics in pipe form.

To study the interrelations of dimensions and deflection properties of plastic pipe and conduit.

To measure the deflection and load-resistance at any of several significant events if they occur during the test.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of load-deflection characteristics of plastic pipe under parallel-plate loading.

1.2 This test method covers thermoplastic resin pipe, reinforced thermosetting resin pipe (RTRP), and reinforced polymer mortar pipe (RPMP).

1.3 The characteristics determined by this test method are pipe stiffness, stiffness factor, and load at specific deflections.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

Note 1—While this test method can be used in measuring the pipe stiffness of corrugated plastic pipe or tubing, special conditions and procedures are used. These details are included in the product standards, for example, Specification F405.

1.5 The text of this test method references notes and footnotes that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the test method.

1.6 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.