Scope
1.1 This specification covers polyethylene (PE 4710) electrofusion fittings for use with outside diameter-controlled crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) pipe, covered by Specifications F2788/F2788M, F2905/F2905M and F2968/F2968M. As stated in these PEX pipe standards, the PEX pipes joined to these PE 4710 electrofusion fittings have an HDB of 1250 psi or 1600 psi at 73 °F (23 °C) per Test Method D2837. Requirements for all metric-sized and inch-sized fittings for use with PEX pipe, made in accordance to these three pipe standards, are specified in Specification F2829/F2829M.
1.2 The maximum allowable operating temperature of electrofusion fittings made in accordance with this standard is limited to the highest temperature at which the HDB of the PE 4710 has been determined. When joined to PEX pipe having a higher temperature HDB, the maximum use temperature for the PE/PEX joint is limited to the elevated temperature HDB rating of the PE material in the fitting
Note 1: PEX and PE 4710 materials can have different elevated temperature ratings, and when joined together, the lower maximum elevated temperature rating will limit the maximum operating temperature. Per Table 1, the required PE 4710 material must have an HDB at 140 °F (60 °C), but may have an HDB at 180 °F (82 °C). PEX pipes generally have HDB ratings at 180 °F (82 °C) or 200 °F (93 °C) or both. When joined to PEX pipe, PE 4710 electrofusion fittings made in accordance with this standard may limit the maximum operating temperature to 140 °F (60 °C) where the PE 4710 material used does not have an optional higher temperature HDB rating.
1.3 Requirements for materials, workmanship, and qualification testing performance are included. The PE electrofusion fitting manufacturer shall assure that fittings produced in accordance with this specification comply with all the requirements of this specification. If a PEX pipe manufacturer deems that their pipe is suitable for joining to polyethylene (PE) electrofusion fittings, the PEX pipe manufacturer shall qualify their PEX pipe by testing joints made with these PE electrofusion fittings, and assuring that the joints meet the performance requirements of this specification.
1.4 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.
1.5 The following safety hazards caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Section 9, 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.
1.6 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.
