This specification covers crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) tubing that is outside diameter controlled, made in standard thermoplastic tubing dimension ratios, and pressure rated for water at three temperatures. This specification covers one PEX tubing material in one standard dimension ratio and having pressure ratings for water of three temperatures. The pressure ratings decrease as the temperature is increased. PEX tubing shall be made from polyethylene compounds which have been crosslinked by peroxides, Azo compounds, or silane compounds in extrusion, or by electron beam after extrusion, or by other means such that the tubing meets the performance requirements. The following tests shall be performed: dimensions and tolerances; density; sustained pressure test; burst pressure; environmental stress cracking test; degree of crosslinking; stabilizer functionality; and oxidative stability in potable chlorinated water applications.

1.1 This specification covers crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) tubing that incorporates an optional polymeric inner, middle or outer layer and that is outside diameter controlled, made in nominal SDR9 tubing dimension ratios except where noted, and pressure rated for water at three temperatures (see Appendix X1). Included are requirements and test methods for material, workmanship, dimensions, burst pressure, hydrostatic sustained pressure, excessive temperature and pressure, environmental stress cracking, stabilizer functionality, bent-tube hydrostatic pressure, oxidative stability in potable chlorinated water, UV resistance, and degree of crosslinking. Requirements for tubing markings are also given. The components covered by this specification are intended for use in, but not limited to, residential and commercial, hot- and cold-potable water distribution systems, reclaimed water, fire protection, municipal water service lines, building supply lines, radiant heating and cooling systems, hydronic distribution systems, snow and ice melting systems, geothermal ground loops, district heating, turf conditioning, compressed air distribution and building services pipe or tubing, provided that the PEX tubing covered herein complies with applicable code requirements.

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.

1.3 The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system are not necessarily exact equivalents; therefore, to ensure conformance with the standard, each system shall be used independently of the other, and values from the two systems shall not be combined. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions that may not be exact equivalents to either SI units or inch-pound units and that are provided for information only.

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

1.5 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.