Significance and Use
5.1 Environment or oxidative time-to-fail data derived from this test method, analyzed in accordance with Section 13, are suitable for extrapolation to typical end-use temperatures and hoop stresses. The extrapolated value(s) provides a relative indication of the resistance of the tested PP piping or system to the oxidative effects of hot, chlorinated water for conditions equivalent to those conditions under which the test data were obtained. The performance of a material or piping product under actual conditions of installation and use is dependent upon a number of factors including installation methods, use patterns, water quality, nature and magnitude of localized stresses, and other variables of an actual, operating hot-and-cold water distribution system that are not addressed in this test method. As such, the extrapolated values do not constitute a representation that a PP pipe or system with a given extrapolated time-to-failure value will perform for that period of time under actual use conditions.
Scope
1.1 This test method describes the general requirements for evaluating the long-term, chlorinated water, oxidative resistance of polypropylene (PP) piping produced in accordance with Specification F2389 used in hot-and-cold water distribution systems by exposure to hot, chlorinated water. This test method outlines the requirements of a pressurized flow-through test system, typical test pressures, test-fluid characteristics, failure type, and data analysis.
Note 1: Other known disinfecting systems (chlorine dioxide, ozone, and chloramines) are also used for protection of potable water. Free-chlorine is the most common disinfectant in use today. A PPI research project examined the relative aggressiveness of free chlorine and chloramines on PEX pipes, both at the same 4.0 ppm concentration and the same test temperatures. The results of the testing showed pipe failure times approximately 40 % longer when tested with chloramines compared to testing with free chlorine, at the tested conditions. Based on these results, the data suggests that chloramines are less aggressive than free chlorine to PEX pipes. This note is provided for information regarding testing different disinfecting systems on PEX tubing using Test Method F2023. The PPI research project did not include testing of polypropylene piping.
Note 2: This test method is based on Test Method F2023 and results from this method can be used for direct comparison with previous results on PP piping materials tested in accordance with Test Method F2023.
1.2 This test method is applicable to PP piping systems used for transport of potable water containing free-chlorine for disinfecting purposes. The oxidizing potential of the test-fluid specified in this test method exceeds that typically found in potable water systems across the United States.
1.3 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 precautionary caveat pertains only to the test method portion, Section 12, 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.
