This specification covers the requirements for polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) plastic hot- and cold-water tubing and distribution systems components made in one standard dimension ratio and intended for specified water service pressures and maximum working temperatures. The components covered here are comprised of tubing, fittings, valves, and manifolds intended for use in residential and commercial, hot and cold, potable water distribution systems. The polyethylene used to make tubing shall be virgin plastic and/or reworked plastic, while fittings shall be made from materials that are generally regarded as corrosion resistant. Sampled specimens shall be tested for conformance with workmanship, dimension (out-of-roundness, outside diameter, and wall thickness), burst pressure, sustained pressure, oxidative stability in potable chlorinated water, thermocycling, bend strength, excessive temperature-pressure capacity, environmental stress cracking, adhesion, and slow crack growth resistance requirements.

1.1 This specification establishes requirements for polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) plastic hot- and cold-water tubing and distribution systems components made in one standard dimension ratio and intended for 100 psig (6.9 bar) water service up to and including a maximum working temperature of 180°F (82°C). Components are comprised of tubing, fittings, valves and manifolds. Tubing may incorporate an optional polymeric inner, middle or outer layer. Testing of Specification F 1807 and F 2159 fittings and PE-RT tubing to the requirements of this standard indicate that these fittings are appropriate for use with PE-RT piping systems. Requirements and test methods are included for materials, workmanship, dimensions and tolerances, burst pressure, sustained pressure, oxidative resistance, temperature cycling tests, bend strength and environmental stress cracking. Also included are tests related to system malfunctions. The components covered by this specification are intended for use in residential and commercial, hot and cold, potable water distribution systems.

1.2 The text of this specification references notes, footnotes, and appendixes which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the specification.

Note 1—Suggested hydrostatic design stresses and hydrostatic pressure ratings for tubing and fittings are listed in Appendix X1. UV labeling guidelines are provided in Appendix X2. Design, assembly, and installation considerations are provided in Appendix X3. An optional performance qualification and an in-plant quality control program are recommended in Appendix X4.

1.3 Units—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.

1.4 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 7, of this specification.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.