4.1 Since coated pipe may be stored outdoors for long periods before burial, weathering tests described in this practice are needed to evaluate the stability of these coatings stored outdoors. The results obtained should be treated only as indicating the general effect of weathering. Exposure conditions vary greatly from year to year, from one part of a year to another, and from locality to locality. The results of short-term (6-month) exposure tests are more meaningful if exposure is started in the spring in order to include the summer, when ambient temperatures are warmest and more radiant energy from the sun is received. In some southern climates where climatic conditions are more uniform throughout the year, the time of year when short-term exposure is started is less critical. In all localities, the longer the exposure period, the more repeatable are the results obtained.

1.1 This practice is intended to define conditions for the outdoor exposure of coated metal pipe in order to evaluate the effects of the coating to weather.

1.2 This practice specifies qualifications for the samples, procedure to be followed in exposure to weather, and procedure for evaluating effects of exposure including visual examination and other tests.

1.3 The values stated in SI units to three significant decimals are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.4 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.