The AE examination method detects damage in RTRP. The damage mechanisms detected in RTRP are as follows: resin cracking, fiber debonding, fiber pullout, fiber breakage, delamination, and bond or thread failure in assembled joints. Flaws in unstressed areas and flaws which are structurally insignificant will not generate AE.

This practice is convenient for on-line use under operating conditions to determine structural integrity of in-service RTRP usually with minimal process disruption.

Flaws located with AE should be examined by other techniques; for example, visual, ultrasound, and dye penetrant, and may be repaired and retested as appropriate. Repair procedure recommendations are outside the scope of this practice.

1.1 This practice covers acoustic emission (AE) examination or monitoring of reinforced thermosetting resin pipe (RTRP) to determine structural integrity. It is applicable to lined or unlined pipe, fittings, joints, and piping systems.

1.2 This practice is applicable to pipe that is fabricated with fiberglass and carbon fiber reinforcements with reinforcing contents greater than 15 % by weight. The suitability of these procedures must be demonstrated before they are used for piping that is constructed with other reinforcing materials.

1.3 This practice is applicable to tests below pressures of 35 MPa absolute (5000 psia).

1.4 This practice is limited to pipe up to and including 0.6 m (24 in.) in diameter. Larger diameter pipe can be examined with AE, however, the procedure is outside the scope of this practice.

1.5 This practice applies to examinations of new or in-service RTRP.

1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.7 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 to determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For more specific safety precautionary information see 8.1.