This specification provides the performance characteristics and qualification tests required for gasket mechanical couplings (GMCs) including grooved-type mechanical couplings for grooved end pipe, mechanical restraint couplings for plain end pipe and mechanical compression couplings for plain end pipe. These couplings are for use at temperatures within the recommended temperature range of their respective gaskets. The GMCs are classified into two types: Type I which are the groove mechanical couplings and Type II which are plain end mechanical couplings. Also, they can be classified into various grades based on successful completion of testing. They can also be grouped into three classes in accordance to joint characteristics: Class 1 which is rigid and restrained, Class 2 which is flexible and restrained, and Class 3 which is flexible and unrestrained. The housings of grooved GMCs shall be made from either ductile iron, aluminum alloy, or iron-chromium-nickel alloy. Bolts of these couplings shall be made from carbon steel and corrosion resistant materials. As for plain end GMCs, their housings or center sleeves shall be made from either ductile iron or steel materials. Their bolts shall be constructed with carbon steel and corrosion resistant materials. Standard qualification tests for GMC shall consist of the following: performance test, specimen examination, pneumatic proof test, vacuum test, hydrostatic proof test, flexibility test, hydrostatic burst test, rigidity test, bending moment proof test, and bending moment ultimate test.

1.1 This specification provides the performance characteristics and qualification tests required for gasketed mechanical couplings including grooved-type mechanical couplings for grooved end pipe, mechanical restraint couplings for plain end pipe, and mechanical compression couplings for plain end pipe. These couplings are for use at temperatures within the recommended temperature range of their respective gaskets. Consult manufacturer for details.

1.2 Measuring and test equipment (M&TE) used in the performance of the tests described herein shall be calibrated using equipment which is traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) or calibrated in accordance with the requirements detailed in BS 5781, Part 1, against standards traceable to National Standards.

1.3 As this is not a dimensional standard, nor does it contain component dimensions, the intermixing of sub-components such as gaskets and housings between manufacturers is not recommended and constitutes non-conformance with this standard.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

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.