4.1 Using the procedures in Sections 8 and 9, the manufacturer's instructions and equipment, pressure-tight joints can be made between manufacturer-recommended combinations of pipe that are as strong as the pipe itself.

1.1 This practice describes general procedures for making joints with polyolefin pipe and fittings by means of electrofusion joining techniques. This practice is applicable to electrofusion fittings that utilize resistance wire as the heating element. These should be regarded as general procedures and not as a substitute for the installation procedures specified by the manufacturers. Manufacturers should be requested to supply specific recommendations for joining their products. This practice does not purport to address all possible electrofusion joining procedures, or to preclude the use of qualified procedures developed by other parties that have been proven to produce reliable electrofusion joints.

Note 1: Reference to the manufacturer in this practice is defined as the electrofusion fitting manufacturer.

1.2 The techniques covered are applicable only to joining polyolefin pipe and fittings of related polymer chemistry, for example, polyethylenes to polyethylenes using a polyethylene electrofusion fitting. Consult the manufacturer's recommendations for compatibility of the electrofusion fitting with the specific pipe or fitting material to be joined.

1.3 The electrofusion joining technique described can produce sound joints between polyolefin pipe and fittings, provided that all products involved (that is, pipe and fittings) meet the appropriate ASTM specifications.

1.4 This practice is not limited by pipe or fitting size, however additional steps or procedures may be necessary when electrofusion joining to pipe of larger diameters. Consult the fitting manufacturer for additional specific instructions for joining their product.

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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.