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.

Designation: D2513 − 16a An American National Standard

Standard Specification for

Polyethylene (PE) Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2513; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope* standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns,
1.1 This specification covers requirements and test methods if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user
for material dimensions and tolerances, hydrostatic burst of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health
strength, chemical resistance, and rapid crack resistance of practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limita-
polyethylene pipe, tubing, and fittings for use in fuel gas mains tions prior to use.
and services for direct burial and reliner applications. The pipe
2. Referenced Documents
and fittings covered by this specification are intended for use in
the distribution of natural gas. Requirements for the qualifying 2.1 ASTM Standards:2
of polyethylene systems for use with liquefied petroleum gas 2.1.1 Terminology:
are also covered. D1600 Terminology for Abbreviated Terms Relating to Plas-
1.1.1 This specification does not cover threaded pipe. De- tics
sign considerations are discussed in Appendix X1. In-plant F412 Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
quality control programs are specified in Annex A1 and Annex 2.1.2 Test Methods for:
A2. D638 Test Method for Tensile Properties of Plastics
1.1.2 See Specification F2619/F2619M for polyethylene D1238 Test Method for Melt Flow Rates of Thermoplastics
piping for pressure or non-pressure oil and gas producing by Extrusion Plastometer
applications to convey fluids such as oil, dry or wet gas, D1598 Test Method for Time-to-Failure of Plastic Pipe
multiphase fluids, and non-potable oilfield water. Under Constant Internal Pressure
D1599 Test Method for Resistance to Short-Time Hydraulic
1.2 The text of this specification references notes, footnotes,
Pressure of Plastic Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings
and appendixes which provide explanatory material. These
D2122 Test Method for Determining Dimensions of Ther-
notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall
moplastic Pipe and Fittings
not be considered as requirements of the specification.
D2290 Test Method for Apparent Hoop Tensile Strength of
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded Plastic or Reinforced Plastic Pipe
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical D2837 Test Method for Obtaining Hydrostatic Design Basis
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only for Thermoplastic Pipe Materials or Pressure Design Basis
and are not considered standard. for Thermoplastic Pipe Products
1.4 The following is an index of the annexes and appendix F1473 Test Method for Notch Tensile Test to Measure the
in this specification: Resistance to Slow Crack Growth of Polyethylene Pipes
Annex Subject
and Resins
Annex A1 In-Plant Quality Control for all materials up to 12 in. 2.1.3 Practices for:
Annex A2 In-Plant Quality Control for PE materials 14 in. and larger. D543 Practices for Evaluating the Resistance of Plastics to
Appendixes Subject
Chemical Reagents
Appendix Design Consideration D618 Practice for Conditioning Plastics for Testing
X1 D1435 Practice for Outdoor Weathering of Plastics
1.5 The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the D1898 Practice for Sampling of Plastics (Withdrawn 1998)3
test method portion, Section 6, of this specification. This

2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
1
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F17 on Plastic contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Piping Systems and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F17.60 on Gas. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Dec. 15, 2016. Published February 2017. Originally the ASTM website.
3
approved in 1966. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as D2513 – 16. DOI: The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on
10.1520/D2513-16A. www.astm.org.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 D2513 − 16a
D2774 Practice for Underground Installation of Thermoplas- ISO 12162 Thermoplastic Materials for Pipes and Fittings
tic Pressure Piping for Pressure Applications—Classification and
D2565 Practice for Xenon-Arc Exposure of Plastics In- Designation—Overall Service (Design) Coefficient
tended for Outdoor Applications ISO 13477 Thermoplastics pipes for the conveyance of
F2620 Practice for Heat Fusion Joining of Polyethylene Pipe fluids – Determination of resistance to rapid crack propa-
and Fittings gation (RCP) – Small scale steady-state test (S4 test)
G155 Practice for Operating Xenon Arc Light Apparatus for ISO 13478 Thermoplastics pipe for the conveyance of fluids
Exposure of Non-Metallic Materials – Determination of resistance to rapid crack propagation
2.1.4 Specification for: (RCP) – Full-scale test (FST)
D2683 Specification for Socket-Type Polyethylene Fittings 2.6 Plastic Pipe Institute7
for Outside Diameter-Controlled Polyethylene Pipe and PPI TR-3 HDB/HDS /PDB/ SDB/MRS Policies
Tubing PPI TR-4 HDB/HDS/SDB/PDB/MRS Listed Materials
D3261 Specification for Butt Heat Fusion Polyethylene (PE) PPI TR-33 Generic Butt Fusion Joining for Polyethylene
Plastic Fittings for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe and Gas Pipe
Tubing PPI TR-41 Generic Saddle Fusion Joining Procedure for
D3350 Specification for Polyethylene Plastics Pipe and Fit- Polyethylene Gas Piping7
tings Materials PPI TN-30/2006 Requirements for the Use of Rework Ma-
F1055 Specification for Electrofusion Type Polyethylene terials in Polyethylene Gas Pipe7
Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene PPI TR-9 Recommended Design Factors and Design Coef-
and Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe and Tubing ficients for Thermoplastic Pressure pipe
F1563 Specification for Tools to Squeeze-off Polyethylene 2.7 Other Documents:8
(PE) Gas Pipe or Tubing National Fire Protection Association: NFPA 58 Storage and
F2138 Specification for Excess Flow Valves for Natural Gas Handling Liquefied Petroleum Gases
Service
F2619/F2619M Specification for High-Density Polyethylene 3. Terminology
(PE) Line Pipe 3.1 Definitions—Definitions are in accordance with Termi-
F2897 Specification for Tracking and Traceability Encoding nology F412, and abbreviations are in accordance with Termi-
System of Natural Gas Distribution Components (Pipe, nology D1600, unless otherwise specified.
Tubing, Fittings, Valves, and Appurtenances) 3.2 The gas industry terminology used in this specification
2.2 ANSI Standards: is in accordance with ANSI B31.8 or OPS 49 CFR Part 192,
B 16.40 Manually Operated Thermoplastic Gas Shutoffs unless otherwise indicated.
and Valves in Gas Distribution Systems4
3.3 The term pipe used herein refers to both pipe and tubing
B 31.8 Gas Transmission and Distribution Piping Systems4
unless specifically stated otherwise.
2.3 Federal Specifications:
3.4 re-rounding equipment—equipment used to reform the
Fed. Std. No. 123 Marking for Shipment (Civil Agencies)5
pipe and permanently reduce ovality to 5 % or less.
OPS 49 CFR Part 192 Title 49, Code of Federal Regula-
tions5 3.5 rounding equipment—equipment, devices, clamps, and
2.4 Military Standards: so forth, used to temporarily hold the pipe round while
MIL-STD-129 Marking for Shipment and Storage5 out-of-roundness measurements are made, or a joining proce-
MIL-STD-1235 (ORD) Single- and Multi-Level Continuous dure (heat fusion, electrofusion, or mechanical) is performed.
Sampling Procedures and Tables for Inspection by Attri- 3.6 pipe material designated code—the pipe material des-
butes ignation code shall consist of the abbreviation for the type of
2.5 ISO Standards6: plastic (PE) followed by Arabic numerals which describe the
ISO 4437 Buried polyethylene (PE) pipes for the supply of short term properties in accordance with applicable Specifica-
gaseous fuels-Metric series-Specifications tion D3350, the hydrostatic design stress for water at 73.4°F
ISO 9080 Thermoplastics Pipes for the Transport of (23°C) in units of 100 psi with any decimal figures dropped.
Fluids—Methods of Extrapolation of Hydrostatic Stress Where the hydrostatic design stress code contains less than two
Rupture Data to Determine Long-Term Hydrostatic figures, a zero is used before the number. Thus, a complete
Strength of Thermoplastic Pipe Materials material designation code shall consist of PE and four figures
for PE materials. For example, PE2708 is a grade PE27
polyethylene with an 800psi design stress for water at 73.4°F
4
(23°C). The hydrostatic design stresses for gas are not used in
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
this designation code.
5
Available from Standardization Documents Order Desk, DODSSP, Bldg. 4,
Section D, 700 Robbins Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19111-5098, http://
7
www.dodssp.daps.mil. Available from Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI), 105 Decker Court, Suite 825,
6
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1, ch. de Irving, TX 75062, http://www.plasticpipe.org.
8
la Voie-Creuse, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland, http:// Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
www.iso.ch. Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.

2
 D2513 − 16a
3.7 dimension ratio (DR)—the ratio of pipe diameter to wall affect the pipelines that are in service. They can still be used for gas
thickness. It is calculated by dividing the specified outside distribution. The main reason for removing these materials from this
standard is to reflect the current state of the art in PE gas distribution
diameter of the pipe, in inches (mm), by the minimum specified piping.
wall thickness, in inches (mm). The standard dimension ratio
(SDR) is a common numbering system which is derived from 4.5 Resistance to Slow Crack Growth (SCG)—Use Test
the ANSI preferred number series R 10. Method F1473 on compression molded plaques at a stress of
2.4 MPa based on the unnotched area and a test temperature of
3.8 toe-in—a small reduction of the outside diameter at the 80°C. Notch depth shall be in accordance with Table 1 in Test
cut end of a length of thermoplastic pipe. Method F1473. Materials shall meet the Slow Crack Growth
4. Materials Resistance requirements in Table 1.

4.1 General—The PE used to make pipe and fittings shall be 4.6 Additive Classes—Polyethylene material compounds
PE or reworked PE (see 4.2 and 4.4) and shall have a Plastics shall meet Specification D3350 code C or E. Code C material
Pipe Institute (PPI) long-term hydrostatic design stress and compounds shall have 2 to 3 percent carbon black. Code E
hydrostatic design basis rating. material compounds shall be yellow with UV stabilizer.

4.2 Rework Material—Clean rework material of the same 4.7 Thermal Stability—The PE material shall contain suffi-
commercial designation, generated from the manufacturer’s cient antioxidant so that the minimum induction temperature
own pipe and fitting production shall not be used unless the shall be 428°F (220°C) when tested in accordance with
pipe and fitting produced meet all the requirements of this Specification D3350. The sample shall be representative of the
specification. The use of these rework materials shall be cross section of the pipe or fittings.
governed by the requirements of 4.3 and PPI TN-30/2006. In 4.8 Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB) Substantiation —The
pipe, rework materials shall be limited to a maximum of 30 % HDB for PE materials at 73°F (23°C) shall be substantiated to
by weight. be linear to 50 years as per Test Method D2837, Section 5.7.
NOTE 1—The requirements for rework materials herein are intended to NOTE 3—The long-term hydrostatic strength at 50 years in accordance
incorporate prudent specifications to ensure that the potential for contami- with Test Method D2837 is not to be used for any pressure rating
nation in gas piping products, that meet this specification, is reduced to the calculations. The MAOP is still calculated using the HDB obtained from
extent possible. It is imperative to emphasize that rework materials have Test Method D2837 long-term hydrostatic strength at 100 000 h. PE
not been identified as the cause of any field failures. The requirements for compounds with a thermoplastic pipe material designation code of PE
rework materials were developed by the consensus of interested parties 2708 and PE 4710 as well as those compounds denoted in PPI TR-4 with
including product manufacturers, gas utility companies, and regulatory an asterisk (*) meet the substantiation requirement of Test Method D2837.
agencies.
4.9 Resistance to Rapid Crack Propagation (RCP) for
4.3 Documentation—A documentation system to allow for Material —The PE material classification (formulation) used in
traceability of raw materials including percentage and material the manufacture of pipe and fittings under this specification
classification (or designation, if applicable) of rework materials shall be tested for resistance to failure by RCP in accordance
used in the manufacture of the pipe product meeting the with the procedures set forth in ISO 13477 (S4 Test) or ISO
requirements of this specification shall exist and be supplied to 13478 (Full Scale Test (FST)). The data obtained shall be made
the purchaser, if requested. available upon request without limitations on disclosure, and
4.4 Classification—Polyethylene materials suitable for use shall not subsequently be subject to disclosure limitations when
in the manufacture of pipe and fittings under this specification used by others. The values obtained are applicable to all pipes
shall meet Table 1 requirements for the applicable pipe with the wall thickness of the pipe tested and all thinner wall
material designation code. pipes. In case of conflict, the RCP results of ISO 13478 shall
apply.
NOTE 2—References and material descriptions for PE 2306, PE 2406,
PE 2606, PE 3306, PE 3406, PE 3408, PE 3608, PE 3710, and PE 4608 NOTE 4—While S4 or FST testing of any combination of outside
have been removed from D2513. Elimination of these materials does not diameter and SDR is permitted in fulfillment of the requirement for testing

TABLE 1 Polyethylene Compound Requirements

Pipe Material Designation Code
PE 2708 PE 4710
Density Cell Classification per Specification 2 4
D3350
SCG Resistance Cell Classification per 7 7
Specification D3350
HDS for water at 73°F (23°C) per Test 800 (5.5) 1000 (6.9)
Method D2837 and PPI TR-3, psi (MPa)
Color and UV Stabilizer Code per Speciif- C or E C or E
cation D3350
Melt flow rate per Test Method D1238, g/10 #0.40 Cond. 190/2.16 or #0.15 Cond. 190/2.16 or
min #20 Cond. 190/21.6 #20 Cond. 190/21.6
HDB at 73ºF (23ºC) per Test Method 1250 (8.6) 1600 (11.0)
D2837 and PPI TR-3, psi (MPa)
Minimum HDB at 140ºF (60ºC) per Test 800 (5.5) 800 (5.5)
Method D2837 and PPI TR-3, psi (MPa)

3
 D2513 − 16a
PE material resistance to RCP, S4 testing of SDR 9 or SDR 11 PE pipe NOTE 9—The terms LPG and LPG gas are synonymous and only apply
specimens is currently the most common industry practice. to a particular kind of fuel gas. For compositions and properties of LPG
NOTE 5—Caution should be exercised in applying the RCP test results gases see NFPA 58, Appendix B.
obtained on one SDR or DR of pipe across a series of pipe SDR’s or DR’s
produced from the same PE material classification (formulation). Indus- 5. Requirements
trial research to clarify the relationships between FST and S4 testing is
ongoing at this time, particularly as it relates to the applicability of RCP 5.1 General—Pipe shall be supplied in either coils or
test results obtained on one SDR or DR of pipe to other SDR’s or DR’s of straight lengths. Any pipe supplied in coils must meet the same
pipe produced from the same PE material classification (formulation). requirements before and after coiling.
Consult the resin manufacturer regarding the applicability of RCP test
results across diameters or SDR’s, or both. Additional information 5.2 Workmanship—The pipe and fittings shall be homoge-
regarding the use of RCP data is presented in ISO 4437. neous throughout and free of visible cracks, holes, foreign
inclusion, blisters, and dents, or other injurious defects. The
4.10 UV Resistance—PE materials shall be Code C or E as
pipe and fittings shall be as uniform as commercially practi-
defined in Specification D3350. Code C material shall contain
cable in color, opacity, density, and other physical properties.
2 to 3 percent well dispersed carbon black, and due to the
absorptive properties of the carbon black, is considered to be 5.3 Pipe and Tubing Dimensions and Tolerances:
stabilized against deterioration from unprotected exposure to 5.3.1 Dimension—The dimensions shall be specified by
UV for not less than 10 years. Code E material shall be wall thickness and outside diameter.
stabilized and protected against deterioration from unprotected 5.3.1.1 Diameters—The outside diameter shall meet the
UV exposure for not less than 3 years. requirements given in Table 2 or Table 3 when measured in
4.10.1 PE compounds designated as Code C containing 2 to accordance with 6.5.
3% carbon black shall be considered stabilized against dete- 5.3.1.2 Toe-In—When measured in accordance with 6.5.1.1,
rioration for not less than 10 years without the need for the outside diameter at the cut end of the pipe shall not be more
additional testing. Black PE pipe coextruded with yellow than 1.5 % smaller than the undistorted outside diameter.
stripe(s) shall be considered stabilized against deterioration Measurement of the undistorted outside diameter shall be made
from unprotected exposure to UV for not less than 10 years. no closer than 1.5 pipe diameters or 11.8 in. (300 mm),
whichever distance is less, from the cut end of the pipe.
NOTE 6—Consult with pipe manufacturer on UV Resistance of black Undistorted outside diameter shall meet the requirements of
pipes with yellow stripe(s) for conformance to the performance require-
ments of code “C” material. Table 2 or Table 3.
5.3.1.3 Wall Thickness—The wall thickness shall be as
4.10.2 PE compounds designated as Code E shall be con- specified in Table 3 or Table 4 when measured in accordance
sidered stabilized against deterioration from unprotected expo- with 6.5.1.2. The minimum wall thickness at any point of
sure to UV for not less than 3 years when meeting the measurement shall be not less than the minimum wall thickness
following criteria following exposure to actual outdoor (natural specified in Table 3 or Table 4.
sunlight) weathering for up to 3 years in accordance with 5.3.1.4 Wall Thickness Eccentricity Range—The wall thick-
Practice D1435 or accelerated weathering in accordance with ness eccentricity range shall be within 12 % when measured in
Practice D2565 and Practice G155 for the equivalent of at least accordance with 6.5.1.3.
3 years natural sunlight: (a) all tensile bar specimens tested in 5.3.1.5 Ovality—The ovality (cross section) of 3 in. IPS
accordance with Test Method D638 shall have an elongation at (88.9 mm) and smaller pipe shall not exceed 5 % when
break value greater than 400% indicating the equivalency of measured in accordance with 6.5.3. Measurements of coiled
the PE material before and after UV exposure against the pipe shall be made on a sample cut from the coil, and in case
elongation at break requirement in Specification D3350; and of disagreement, conditioned per 6.3.
(b) all tensile bar specimens tested in accordance with Test
Method D638 shall retain a minimum of 50% of their original NOTE 10—Other factors, that is, installation compaction, static soil
elongation at break values. Test data shall be made available loading, and dynamic vehicular loads may increase the ovality; therefore,
5 % was chosen as the limit for the amount contributed by manufacturing,
from the manufacturer upon request. packing, in-plant storage, and shipping. For further information, see (1)9.
NOTE 7—Studies have shown HDPE exposed to Xenon Arc via Practice (1) Before or during installation, coiled pipe larger than 3
G155-A Cycle 1 give approximately 4.4 times the acceleration to outdoor in. IPS (88.9 mm) shall be processed by the installer through
Florida exposure. Therefore approximately 2000 hours Xenon Arc testing re-rounding equipment that corrects ovality to 5 % or less.
would equal about 1-year outdoor exposure in Florida or 2-years in NOTE 11—Ovality is a packaging condition that occurs when roundable
southern Canada. pipe is wound into a coil—the pipe flattens out as it is coiled. Ovality is
NOTE 8—The determination for UV resistance is often based on corrected when joining equipment is applied to roundable pipe, or by field
measuring the ductility properties of the pipe material exposed to artificial processing roundable pipe through re-rounding and straightening equip-
weathering. These requirements and test methods are based on expected ment during installation.
UV exposure levels in North America. Alternate requirements and
alternate determination methods may be appropriate in other regions of the 5.3.1.6 Length—The pipe shall be supplied in straight
world. As an example ISO 4437 standard requires a minimum resistance lengths or coils as agreed upon between the manufacturer and
to an accumulation of 3.6GJ for non-black polyethylene materials. the purchaser. The length shall not be less than the minimum
4.11 Qualification for LPG Service—Materials that qualify length agreed upon when corrected to 73°F (23°C).
for natural gas service and that carry a recommended HDB for
140°F in accordance with 5.6, also qualify for LPG service 9
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to a list of references at the end of
without the need for further testing. this standard.

4
 D2513 − 16a
TABLE 2 Outside Diameters and Tolerances for Plastic Pipe, in. (mm)

Nominal Maximum Out-of-Roundness

Pipe Outside Diameter Tolerance SDR 17
Size SDR 32.5 SDR 26 SDR 21 SDR 13.5
SDR 11

⁄
12 0.840 (21.3) ±0.004 (±0.102) ... ... 0.03(0.762) 0.016(0.406)
⁄
34 1.050 (26.7) ±0.004 (±0.102) ... ... 0.03(0.762) 0.02(0.508)
1 1.315 (33.4) ±0.005 (±0.127) ... ... 0.03(0.762) 0.02(0.508)
1 1⁄ 4 1.660 (42.1) ±0.005 (±0.127) ... ... 0.03(0.762) 0.024(0.61)
1 1⁄ 2 1.900 (48.3) ±0.006 (±0.152) ... ... 0.06(1.524) 0.024(0.61)
2 2.375 (60.3) ±0.006 (±0.152) ... ... 0.06(1.524) 0.024(0.61)
2 1⁄ 2 2.875 (73.0) ±0.007 (±0.179) ... ... 0.06(1.524) 0.03(0.762)
3 3.500 (88.9) ±0.008 (±0.203) ... ... 0.06(1.524) 0.03(0.762)
3 1⁄ 2 4.000 (101.6) ±0.008 (±0.203) ... ... 0.1(2.5) 0.03(0.762)
4 4.500 (114.3) ±0.009 (±0.229) ... ... 0.1(2.5) 0.03(0.762)
5 5.563 (141.3) ±0.010 (±0.254) ... ... 0.1(2.5) 0.06(1.524)
6 6.625 (168.3) ±0.011 (±0.279) 0.12(3) 0.11(2.74) 0.1(2.5) 0.07(1.778)
8 8.625 (219.1) ±0.013 (±0.330) 0.24(6.1) 0.16(4.06) 0.12(3) 0.08(2.04)
10 10.750 (273.0) ±0.015 (±0.381) 0.24(6.1) 0.2(5.08) 0.14(3.58) 0.1(2.5)
12 12.750 (323.8) ±0.017 (±0.432) 0.28(7.12) 0.2(5.08) 0.14(3.58) 0.1(2.5)
14 14.000 (355.6) ±0.063 (±1.60) 0.308(7.82) 0.224(5.68) 0.154(3.91) 0.112(2.84)
16 16.000 (406.4) ±0.072 (±1.83) 0.352(8.94) 0.256(6.50) 0.176(4.47) 0.128(3.25)
18 18.000 (457.2) ±0.081 (±2.06) 0.396(10.05) 0.288(7.31) 0.198(5.02) 0.144(3.65)
20 20.000 (508.0) ±0.090 (±2.29) 0.44(11.1) 0.32(8.12) 0.22(5.58) 0.16(4.06)
22 22.000 (558.8) ±0.099 (±2.51) 0.484(12.29) 0.352(8.94) 0.242(6.14) 0.176(4.47)
24 24.000 (609.6) ±0.108 (±2.74) 0.528(13.41) 0.384(9.75) 0.264(6.70) 0.192(4.87)

TABLE 3 PE Tubing-Diameters, Wall Thicknesses, and yield when determined in accordance with 6.8 shall be 2520 psi
Tolerances, in. (mm) (17.4 MPa) for PE 2708 pipe or 2900 psi (20.0 MPa) for PE
Nominal Minimum Wall 4710 pipe.
Outside
Tubing Tolerance Wall Thickness
Diameter
Size (CTS) Thickness Tolerance NOTE 12—The requirements in 5.3.1.1 and 5.3.1.3 are for laboratory
⁄
14 0.375 (9.52) ±0.004 (±0.10) 0.062 (1.58) +0.006 (+0.15) proof testing only and should not be interpreted as applicable to on-site
3⁄ 8 0.500 (12.7) ±0.004 (±0.10) 0.062 (1.58) +0.006 (+0.15) testing for acceptance of installed systems larger than 12 in. See
1⁄ 2 0.625 (15.9) ±0.004 (±0.10) 0.062 (1.58) +0.006 (+0.15) appropriate installation standards or manufacturer’s recommendations for
1⁄ 2 0.625 (15.9) ±0.004 (±0.10) 0.090 (2.27) +0.009 (+0.23) field test procedures.
1⁄ 2 0.625 (15.9) ±0.004 (±0.10) 0.104 (2.64) +0.010 (+0.25)
3⁄ 4 0.875 (22.2) ±0.004 (±0.10) 0.062 (1.58) +0.006 (+0.15) 5.5 Chemical Resistance—The pipe and fittings shall not
3⁄ 4 0.875 (22.2) ±0.004 (±0.10) 0.077 (1.95) +0.008 (+0.20) increase in weight more than 0.5 % (1.0 % for toluene in
3⁄ 4 0.875 (22.2) ±0.004 (±0.10) 0.090 (2.27) +0.009 (+0.23) methanol). Where the test specimen is a pipe ring, the material
1 1.125 (28.6) ±0.005 (±0.13) 0.062 (1.58) +0.007 (+0.18)
1 1.125 (28.6) ±0.005 (±0.13) 0.090 (2.27) +0.011 (+0.28) shall not change more than 612 % in apparent tensile yield
1 1.125 (28.6) ±0.005 (±0.13) 0.099 (2.51) +0.012 (+0.31) strength when measured in accordance with 6.9. Where the test
1 1.125 (28.6) ±0.005 (±0.13) 0.101 (2.56) +0.012 (+0.31) specimen is a plaque, the material shall not change more than
1 1.125 (28.6) ±0.005 (±0.13) 0.121 (3.07) +0.015 (+0.38)
1 1⁄ 4 1.375 (34.9) ±0.005 (±0.13) 0.062 (1.58) +0.007 (+0.18) 612 % in tensile strength at yield when measured in accor-
1 1⁄ 4 1.375 (34.9) ±0.005 (±0.13) 0.090 (2.27) +0.011 (+0.28) dance with Test Method D638.
1 1⁄ 4 1.375 (34.9) ±0.005 (±0.13) 0.121 (3.07) +0.015 (+0.38)
1 3⁄ 4 1.875 (47.6) ±0.006 (±0.15) 0.062 (1.58) +0.007 (+0.18) NOTE 13—This pipe test is only an indication of what will happen as a
result of short term exposure to these chemicals. For longterm results,
additional testing is required.
5.6 Melt Index—Melt index is the flow rate of PE material
when measured in accordance with Test Method D1238,
5.3.1.7 When sizes other than those listed in Table 2, Table condition 190/2.16 (formerly Condition E). Materials that
3 or Table 4 are used, tolerances shall be: for outside diameter, record zero flow under condition 190/2.16 shall be measured in
use same tolerance of next smaller size; for wall thickness, use accordance with condition 190/21.6 (formerly condition F).
same tolerance percentage as shown in the tables. The melt index of pipe/fitting shall meet the designated
5.4 Minimum Hydrostatic Burst Pressure/Apparent Tensile category in Table 5. The sample shall be representative of the
Strength (Quick Burst)—The pipe or system shall fail in a cross section of the pipe or fitting and diced to an appropriate
ductile manner when tested in accordance with Test Method size by a method not producing heat.
D1599. For pipe sizes above 4-in. nominal diameter, the testing 5.7 Sustained Pressure 73°F (23°C)—Fittings shall not fail
lab shall be allowed to replace the quick burst test (Test in less than 1000 h when tested in accordance with Test
Method D1599) by the apparent ring tensile strength test (Test Method D1598. For PE 2708 materials, the stress shall be 1320
Method D2290). The minimum apparent tensile strength at psi, for PE 4710 materials, the stress shall be 1600 psi.

5
 D2513 − 16a
TABLE 4 Wall Thicknesses and Tolerances for Plastic Pipe, in (mm)A,B
Nominal Pipe Size
DRC Minimum Tolerance
(IPS)

D
⁄
12 0.062 (1.58) +0.007 (+0.178)
11.0 0.076 (1.93) +0.009 (+0.229)
9.33 0.090 (2.29) +0.011 (+0.279)

D
⁄
34 0.090 (2.29) +0.011 (+0.279)
11.0 0.095 (2.41) +0.011 (+0.279)
Sch 40 0.113 (2.87) +0.014 (+0.356)

D
1 0.090 (2.29) +0.011 (+0.279)
13.5 0.097 (2.46) +0.012 (+0.305)
11.0 0.120 (3.05) +0.014 (+0.356)
9.9 0.133 (3.38) +0.016 (+0.406)
9.33 0.140 (3.56) +0.017 (+0.432)

D
1 1⁄ 4 0.090 (2.29) +0.011 (+0.279)
17.0 0.098 (2.49) +0.012 (+0.305)
13.5 0.123 (3.12) +0.015 (+0.381)
Sch 40 0.140 (3.56) +0.017 (+0.432)
11.0 0.151 (3.84) +0.018 (+0.457)
10.0 0.166 (4.22) +0.020 (+0.508)
9.33 0.178 (4.52) +0.021 (+0.533)
6.0 0.277 (7.04) +0.033 (+0.838)

D
1 1⁄ 2 0.090 (2.29) +0.011 (+0.279)
17 0.112 (2.85) +0.013 (+0.330)
13.5 0.141 (3.58) +0.017 (+0.432)
Sch 40 0.145 (3.68) +0.017 (+0.432)
11 0.173 (4.39) +0.021 (+0.533)

2 21 0.113 (2.87) +0.014 (+0.356)

17 0.140 (3.56) +0.017 (+0.432)
Sch 40 0.154 (3.91) +0.018 (+0.457)
13.5 0.176 (4.47) +0.021 (+0.533)
11 0.216 (5.49) +0.026 (+0.660)
9.33 0.255 (6.48) +0.031 (+0.787)

2 1⁄ 2 21 0.137 (3.48) +0.016 (+0.406)

17 0.169 (4.29) +0.020 (+0.508)
13.5 0.213 (5.41) +0.026 (+0.660)
11 0.261 (6.63) +0.031 (+0.787)

3 21 0.167 (4.24) +0.020 (+0.508)

17 0.206 (5.23) +0.025 (+0.635)
Sch 40 0.216 (5.49) +0.026 (+0.660)
13.5 0.259 (6.58) +0.031 (+0.787)
11.5 0.304 (7.72) +0.036 (+0.914)
11 0.318 (8.08) +0.038 (+0.965)
9.33 0.375 (9.53) +0.045 (+1.143)

3 1⁄ 2 21 0.190 (4.83) +0.023 (+0.584)

17 0.236 (5.99) +0.028 (+0.711)
13.5 0.296 (7.52) +0.036 (+0.914)
11 0.363 (9.22) +0.044 (+1.118)
4 21 0.214 (5.44) +0.026 (+0.660)
19 0.237 (6.02) +0.028 (+0.711)
17 0.265 (6.73) +0.032 (+0.813)
13.5 0.333 (8.46) +0.040 (+1.016)
11.5 0.391 (9.93) +0.047 (+1.194)
11.0 0.409 (10.39) +0.049 (+1.246)
9.33 0.482 (12.24) +0.058 (+1.473)

5 21.6 0.258 (6.55) +0.031 (+0.787)

21 0.265 (6.73) +0.032 (+0.813)
17 0.327 (8.31) +0.039 (+0.991)
13.5 0.412 (10.46) +0.050 (+1.270)
11 0.506 (12.85) +0.061 (+1.549)

6 32.5 0.204 (5.18) +0.024 (+0.610)

26 0.255 (6.48) +0.031 (+0.787)
23.7 0.280 (7.11) +0.034 (+0.864)
21 0.315 (8.00) +0.038 (+0.965)
17 0.390 (9.91) +0.047 (+1.194)
13.5 0.491 (12.47) +0.059 (+1.499)

6
 D2513 − 16a
TABLE 4 Continued
Nominal Pipe Size C
DR Minimum Tolerance
(IPS)

11.5 0.576 (14.63) +0.069 (+1.753)

11.0 0.602 (15.29) +0.072 (+1.829)

8 32.5 0.265 (6.73) +0.032 (+0.813)

26 0.332 (8.43) +0.040 (+1.016)
21 0.411 (10.44) +0.049 (+1.245)
17 0.507 (12.90) +0.061 (+1.549)
13.5 0.639 (16.23) +0.077 (+1.956)
11.5 0.750 (19.05) +0.090 (+2.286)
11 0.784 (19.91) +0.094 (+2.388)

10 32.5 0.331 (8.41) +0.040 (+1.016)

26 0.413 (10.49) +0.050 (+1.270)
21 0.512 (13.00) +0.061 (+1.549)
17 0.632 (16.05) +0.076 (+1.930)
13.5 0.796 (20.22) +0.096 (+2.438)
11.5 0.935 (23.75) +0.112 (+2.845)
11 0.977 (24.82) +0.117 (+2.972)

12 32.5 0.392 (9.96) +0.047 (+1.194)

26 0.490 (12.45) +0.059 (+1.499)
21 0.607 (15.42) +0.073 (+1.854)
17 0.750 (19.05) +0.090 (+2.286)
13.5 0.944 (23.98) +0.113 (+2.870)
11.5 1.109 (28.17) +0.133 (+3.378)
11 1.159 (29.44) +0.139 (+3.531)

14 32.5 0.431 (10.942) +0.052 (+1.313)

26 0.538 (13.677) +0.065 (+1.641)
21 0.667 (16.933) +0.080 (+2.032)
17 0.824 (20.918) +0.099 (+2.510)
13.5 1.037 (26.341) +0.124 (+3.161)
11.5 1.217 (30.922) +0.146 (+3.711)
11 1.273 (32.327) +0.153 (+3.879)

16 32.5 0.492 (12.505) +0.059 (+1.501)

26 0.615 (15.631) +0.074 (+1.876)
21 0.762 (19.352) +0.091 (+2.322)
17 0.941 (23.906) +0.113 (+2.869)
13.5 1.185 (30.104) +0.142 (+3.612)
11.5 1.391 (35.339) +0.167 (+4.241)
11 1.455 (36.945) +0.175 (+4.433)

18 32.5 0.554 (14.068) +0.066 (+1.688)

26 0.692 (17.585) +0.083 (+2.110)
21 0.857 (21.771) +0.103 (+2.613)
17 1.059 (26.894) +0.127 (+3.227)
13.5 1.333 (33.867) +0.160 (+4.064)
11.5 1.565 (39.757) +0.188 (+4.771)
11 1.636 (41.564) +0.196 (+4.988)

20 32.5 0.615 (15.631) +0.074 (+1.876)

26 0.769 (19.538) +0.092 (+2.345)
21 0.952 (24.190) +0.114 (+2.903)
17 1.176 (29.882) +0.141 (+3.586)
13.5 1.481 (37.630) +0.178 (+4.516)
11.5 1.739 (44.174) +0.209 (+5.301)
11 1.818 (46.182) +0.218 (+5.542)

22 32.5 0.677 (17.194) +0.081 (+2.063)

26 0.846 (21.492) +0.102 (+2.579)
21 1.048 (26.610) +0.126 (+3.193)
17 1.294 (32.871) +0.155 (+3.944)
13.5 1.630 (41.393) +0.196 (+4.967)
11.5 1.913 (48.591) +0.230 (+5.831)
11 2.000 (50.800) +0.240 (+6.096)

24 32.5 0.738 (18.757) +0.089 (+2.251)

26 0.923 (23.446) +0.111 (+2.814)
21 1.143 (29.029) +0.137 (+3.483)

7
 D2513 − 16a
TABLE 4 Continued
Nominal Pipe Size C
DR Minimum Tolerance
(IPS)

17 1.412 (35.859) +0.169 (+4.303)

13.5 1.778 (45.156) +0.213 (+5.419)
11.5 2.087 (53.009) +0.250 (+6.361)
11 2.182 (55.418) +0.262 (+6.650)
A
The sizes listed in Table 4 are those commercially available sizes used by the gas industry.
B
The minimum is the lowest wall thickness of the pipe at any cross section. The maximum permitted wall thickness, at any cross section, is the minimum wall thickness
plus the stated tolerance. All tolerances are on the plus side of the minimum requirement.
C
The DR shown are designations commonly accepted by the gas industry and do not calculate exactly.
D
These wall thicknesses are minimum and are not a function of the dimension ratios.

TABLE 5 Pipe Category

Category
Property Test Method
A B C D E F G H
Temperature, ... 100 (38) 120 (49) 140 (60) 160 (71) 180 (82)
200 (93) ... ...
°F (°C)
Hydrostatic D2837 400 (2.8) 500 (3.4) 630 (4.3) 800 (5.5) 1000 (6.9) 1250 (8.6) 1600 (11.0) 2000 (13.8)
Design
Basis, psi
(MPa)
Melt IndexA D1238 >0.5 0.2–0.5 0.01–0.3 <0.01B C
... ... ...
Examples: CDB - At 140ºF (60ºC) the HDB is 800 psi (5.5 MPa). The approximate melt index range is 0.2 to 0.5 g/10 min for this PE pipe.
DF - At 160ºF (71ºC) the HDB is 1250 psi (8.6 MPa)A .
A
The Melt Index information in this table is intended to provide guidance relating to heat fusion joining of PE materials, not for classification of materials. This property
is not applicable to non-PE materials or to mechanical fittings. See 7.5.
B
Typically melt flow measured under condition 190/21.6 is less than 4.01 g/10 min.
C
When a PE pipe or fitting is marked per 7.2 or 7.5 with the letter “E,” it affirms that the manufacturer has verified the applicability of generic fusion joining with their products
in accordance with PPI TR-33 and PPI TR-41 by joining to itself and to other “E” materials and testing the joints in accordance with applicable regulations. However,
qualification of joining procedures by operators in accordance with applicable regulations may still be required. Information about manufacturers who have verified PPI
TR-33 and PPI TR-41 generic fusion joining with their products is found in PPI TR-33 and PPI TR-41. Consult PPI and the manufacturer for additional information.

5.8 Elevated Temperature Service—piping materials in- conducted. In cases of conflict, the RCP results of ISO 13478
tended for use at temperatures above 100°F (38°C) shall have shall apply. The data obtained shall be made available upon
the PPI hydrostatic design basis (HDB) determined at the request without limitations on disclosure, and shall not subse-
specific temperature in accordance with Test Method D2837. quently be subject to disclosure limitations when used by
The 100 000-h intercept (long-term strength) shall be catego- others.
rized in accordance with Table 5 and be listed as the “hydro-
NOTE 16—The requirements and testing for resistance to RCP specified
static design basis of XXX psi at XXX °F (C°) for (compound in this specification do not provide information for all possible conditions
name).” of use. The user should consult with the manufacturer and other
appropriate sources such as resin suppliers, research, academia, etc., to
NOTE 14—Many design factors for elevated temperature service cannot
determine that the RCP resistance provided by the pipe producer is
be covered in this specification. Users should consult applicable codes for
sufficient for the intended use.
limitations on pertinent maximum temperatures.
NOTE 15—In the absence of an HDB established at the specified 5.11 Inside Surface Ductility for Pipe—The inside surface
temperature, the HDB of a higher temperature may be used in determining of pipe shall be ductile as shown by testing in accordance with
a design pressure rating at the specified temperature by arithmetic
interpolation. 5.11.1, 5.11.2, and 5.11.3. Before testing, specimens shall be
conditioned in accordance with Practice D618 for 40 h at 73.4
5.9 HDB Validation for PE Pipe—The 73°F (23°C) Hydro- 6 3.6°F (23 6 2°C) and 50 % relative humidity.
static Design Basis (HDB) of PE pipe shall be validated by the
pipe producer using the PE validation procedure as outlined in NOTE 17—ID ductility testing may also be conducted for quality control
Test Method D2837. For MDPE materials, the HDB of 1250 purposes, however, there is no known data that identifies one test as
inferior, equal, or superior to the others, therefore, results from one test
psi shall be validated; for HDPE materials, the HDB of 1600
should not be evaluated against the results from either of the other two
psi shall be validated. tests.
5.10 Resistance to Rapid Crack Propagation (RCP) for 5.11.1 Bend-back Test Method:
Pipe—Additional testing for resistance to RCP is required 5.11.1.1 From the pipe, squarely cut a ring of pipe with a
when the wall thickness of the pipe being produced in minimum width of 11⁄4 (32 mm). The entire wall thickness may
accordance with this standard exceeds that of the pipe used to be tested, or material may be removed from the OD surface of
establish the resistance to RCP for the PE compound. In these the pipe, while maintaining an undisturbed ID surface, to
circumstances, additional testing for resistance to failure by produce a ring with 3⁄8-in. (9.5-mm) wall thickness.
RCP in accordance with the procedures set forth in ISO 13477
(S4 Test) or ISO 13478 (Full Scale Test (FST)) shall be NOTE 18—The ring may be tested in its entirety, or may be cut into

8
 D2513 − 16a
representative sectors to produce bend-back test specimens. 5.13.1.2 PE butt fusion joining shall be between compo-
5.11.1.2 In a well-lit area at 73.4 6 3.6°F (23 6 2°C) nents (pipes, fittings, or valves) having the same SDR or DR.
perform the following procedure within 5 min: (a) Bend the Butt fusion between unlike SDR or DR components shall be
specimen inside-out (reverse-bend so that the pipe ID surface allowed only if it has been demonstrated that long term
is on the outside surface of the bent specimen). (b) Using an performance is not adversely affected. The minimum require-
apparatus such as a vise or other suitable bending equipment, ment to demonstrate long term performance shall be the
close the legs of the specimen together. When the specimen validation procedure for PE in Test Method D2837. The
legs are closed together, the top of the bend-back specimen Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB) of the PE material shall be
shall protrude 1 to 11 ⁄4 in. (25 to 32 mm) or two wall validated using specimens containing butt fusion joints result-
thicknesses, whichever is greater, above the point of closure ing from different SDRs or DRs. Pipe/pipe joints of the given
(jaws). (c) With the unaided (naked) eye, visually examine the PE material that pass shall validate pipe/pipe, pipe/fitting, or
protruding reverse-bent pipe ID surface for signs of brittle fitting/fitting joints of the same SDR ratio for that PE material.
cracking or crazing. 5.13.2 Mechanical—Mechanical fittings shall be installed in
5.11.1.3 Any indication of brittle cracking or crazing indi- accordance with the user’s written procedures and the fitting
cates failure. manufacturer’s installation instructions. The joint shall be
5.11.2 Elongation-at-Break Test Method : tested in accordance with the specific design category as
5.11.2.1 Five Test Method D638 Type IV specimens cut in outlined in 6.10.
the longitudinal direction from locations equally spaced around 5.13.3 Electrofusion—Electrofusion joints shall be made in
the circumference of the pipe shall be tested in accordance with accordance to user’s written procedures and the fitting manu-
Test Method D638 at a cross-head separation speed of 2 in. facturer’s installation instructions.
(50.8 mm) min, and at 73.4 6 3.6°F (23 6 2°C). If the 5.14 Fittings:
specimen thickness must be reduced by machining, the pipe ID 5.14.1 Socket-type fusion fittings shall meet the require-
surface shall be left unaltered. ments of Specification D2683.
NOTE 19—If the specimen thickness is reduced, the machined side of 5.14.2 Butt-type fusion fittings shall meet the requirements
the specimen must be smooth and the thickness of the specimen in the of Specification D3261.
gage length must be uniform. Surface cuts or scratches and nonuniform 5.14.3 Electrofusion fittings should meet the requirements
thickness in the specimen gage length can detrimentally affect test results.
of Specification F1055.
5.11.2.2 The percent elongation at break for each test
specimen shall exceed 400 %. 5.15 PE Valves—All PE gas valves shall meet the require-
5.11.3 Thermal Stability Test Method—Specimens of the ments of ANSI Standard B 16.40.
pipe inside wall surface not more than 0.005 in. (0.13 mm) 5.16 Excess Flow Valves—All excess flow valves shall meet
thick shall demonstrate a minimum induction temperature of the requirements of Specification F2138.
428°F (220°C) when tested in accordance with the Test Method
for Thermal Stability in Specification D3350. 6. Test Methods
5.12 Squeeze-Off—This requirement is limited to pipe sizes, 6.1 General—The test methods in this specification cover
wall thicknesses, squeeze procedures, and conditions deemed plastic pipe and fittings to be used for gas distribution. Test
suitable for squeeze-off in service by the pipe manufacturer. methods that are applicable from other specifications will be
There shall be no leakage or visual evidence of splitting, referenced in the paragraph pertaining to that particular test.
cracking, breaking or reduction in 1000-h sustained pressure
6.2 Sampling—Take a representative sample of the pipe and
category when pipe is tested as follows:
fittings sufficient to determine conformance with this specifi-
5.12.1 Prepare six randomly selected pipe specimens in
cation. About 40 ft (12 m) of pipe is required to perform all the
accordance with Test Method D1598 except they shall be
tests prescribed. The number of fittings required varies, de-
unfilled.
pending upon the size and type of fitting. A sampling plan shall
5.12.2 The squeeze-off shall be effected at the mid-point of
be agreed upon by the purchaser and the manufacturer (see
the test specimen, 90° to the point of the measured minimum
Practice D1898).
wall thickness. Close the squeeze bars to the gap stop in
6.2.1 Pipe Test Specimens—Not less than 50 % of the test
Specification F1563 and hold in constraint for 4 h. Remove
specimens required for any pressure test shall have at least a
squeeze bars and reround pipe by closing squeeze bars at a
part of the marking in their central sections. The central section
point 90° from the squeeze area.
is that portion of pipe which is at least one pipe diameter away
5.12.3 Immediately upon removal of the squeeze-off tool,
from an end closure.
fill the specimens with ambient temperature water, that is, 67 6
10°F (19.4 6 5.6°C), condition, and test in accordance with 6.3 Conditioning—For those tests where conditioning is
6.6. required or unless otherwise specified, condition the specimens
5.13 Joints: prior to testing for a minimum of 1h in water or 4h in air at 73.4
5.13.1 Heat Fusion: 6 3.6°F (23 6 2°C).
5.13.1.1 Heat fusion joints of thermoplastic pipe and fittings 6.4 Test Conditions—Conduct the test in the standard labo-
shall be made in accordance with Practice F2620 and the user’s ratory atmosphere of 73.4 6 3.6°F (23 6 2°C) and 50 6 5 %
written procedure. relative humidity, unless otherwise specified.

9
 D2513 − 16a
6.5 Dimensions and Tolerances: 6.6.2 Maintain the specimens at the pressures required, held
6.5.1 Pipe—Any length of pipe is used to determine the to 610 psi (0.07 MPa), for a period of 1000 h at the test
dimensions. Coiled pipe shall be measured in the natural temperature 63.6°F (62°C) as specified in 6.6.1.
springback condition, unless specified otherwise. 6.6.3 Failure of two of the six specimens tested shall
6.5.1.1 Diameter—Measure the diameter of the pipe in constitute failure in the test. Failure of one of the six specimens
accordance with Test Method D2122. The average outside tested is cause for retest of six additional specimens. Failure of
diameter for nonroundable pipe is the arithmetic average of the one of the six specimens in retest shall constitute failure in the
maximum and minimum diameters at any cross section on the test. Evidence of failure of the pipe shall be as defined in Test
length of the pipe. For roundable pipe, out-of-roundness Method D1598.
tolerance applies to measurements made while the pipe is 6.7 Minimum Hydrostatic Burst Pressure (Quick Burst)—
rounded with the manufacturer’s recommended equipment. The test equipment, procedures, and failure definitions shall be
Measure out-of-roundness within one-half pipe diameter or 2 as specified in Test Method D1599. Pressures shall be calcu-
in. (50 mm), whichever is closer, of the rounding equipment. lated using the pipe’s actual measured minimum wall
See Test Method D2122 for definitions of nonroundable and thickness, outside diameter, and the applicable fiber stress,
roundable pipe. whichever is greater.
(1) The pipe surface shall be free of gross imperfections such
6.8 Apparent Tensile Properties—The procedure and test
as, deep scratches, grooves, or high or low (flat) spots around
equipment shall be as specified in Test Method D2290,
the pipe circumference.
Procedure B. The speed of testing shall be 0.5 in. (12.7
NOTE 20—Excessive out-of-roundness may be caused by manufactur- mm)/min. Cut “ring” specimens from pipe. Test a minimum of
ing irregularities around the circumference of the pipe, such as deep five specimens. This method is applicable to all pipe of
scratches, gouges, flat spots, and high spots. Such defects could detrimen- nominal 3⁄4-in. (19.0-mm) outside diameter and larger.
tally affect joining. To simulate field joining of roundable pipe, out-of-
roundness is checked by fitting a rounding device on the pipe, then 6.9 Chemical Resistance—Determine the resistance to the
measuring diameter. following chemicals in accordance with Test Method D543.
6.5.1.2 Wall Thickness—Make a minimum of six measure- Where available, the test specimen shall be a ring 2 in. SDR 11
ments at each cross section in accordance with Test Method pipe cut to the ring dimensions specified in 6.8. For materials
D2122. that are not readily available as 2 in. SDR 11 pipe, the test
6.5.1.3 Wall Thickness Eccentricity Range—Measure in a specimen shall be a plaque of material 1⁄4 by 2 by 4 in. (6.3 by
manner such that the maximum, A, and the minimum, B, wall 50.8 by 101.6 mm) with a 1 in. (25.4 mm) wide reduced
thickness at single points of each cross section measured are section.
obtained. Calculate the wall thickness eccentricity range, E, in Chemicals Concentration (% by volume)
percent for each cross section as follows: Mineral oil (USP) 100
Tertiary-butyl mercaptan 5 in mineral oil
E 5 @ ~ A 2 B ! /A # 3 100 (1) Antifreeze agents (at least one shall be used):
Methanol, or 100
6.5.1.4 Length—Measure pipe length and other linear di- Ethylene glycol 100
Toluene 15 in methanol
mensions with a steel tape or other device, accurate to 61⁄32 in.
(61 mm) in 10 ft (3 m). Test five specimens with each chemical. Weigh the speci-
6.5.2 Fittings—Measure the dimensions of fittings in accor- mens to the nearest 0.005 g and completely immerse them in
dance with Test Method D2122. the chemicals for 72 h. On removal from the chemicals, wipe
the specimens with a clean dry cloth. Condition in air for 2 to
6.5.3 Ovality—Determine percent ovality in accordance
21⁄4 h and reweigh. Calculate the increase in weight to the
with Test Method D2122.
nearest 0.01 % on the basis of initial weight. Test the specimen
6.6 Sustained Pressure Test: in tension in accordance with 6.8 within 1⁄2 h after weighing.
6.6.1 Select six test specimens of pipe at random, condition Examine the weight and apparent tensile strength of each
at the standard laboratory test temperature and humidity, and specimen for conformance to the requirement in 5.5.
pressure test in accordance with Test Method D1598. (Warning—Because of the possible toxicity of these reagents,
6.6.1.1 Test specimens shall be prepared so that the mini- refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet on each of these
mum length of pipe on each side of the fitting is equal to 5 reagents before using or handling them.)
times the diameter of the pipe but in no case less than 12 in. 6.10 Categorization of Mechanical Joints—The following
(304 mm) for sizes less than 6 in. For sizes 6 in. and larger, the test methods provide a uniform procedure for qualification or
minimum length shall be equal to 3 times the diameter or 30 in. categorization of mechanical joints using short term pullout
(762 mm), whichever is shorter. resistance tests and burst tests. The mechanical joint categories
6.6.1.2 Pressures used shall be calculated using the pipe’s and test methods are as follows:
actual measured minimum wall thickness, outside diameter, 6.10.1 Category 1—A mechanical joint design that provides
and the applicable fiber stress, whichever is greater. The test a seal plus a resistance to a force on the pipe end equal to or
fiber stress shall be 90 % of the hydrostatic design basis greater than that which will cause a permanent deformation of
(HDB). the pipe.
NOTE 21—Air, methane, or nitrogen may be substituted for water as the 6.10.1.1 The apparatus and report shall be as specified in
test medium. Test Method D638. The test shall be conducted at ambient

10
 D2513 − 16a
temperatures, that is, 67 6 10°F (19.4 6 5.6°C). The speed of Specification. For these reasons two material designations may be present.
the testing shall be 0.2 in. (5 mm)/min 625 %. Five specimens For example, PE4710 pipes were previously described as PE3408 pipes
and may be marked PE3408/4710. Similarly PE2708 pipes were previ-
shall be prepared following the manufacturer’s published ously described as PE2406 pipes and may be marked PE2406/2708.
installation instructions. Length of the specimens shall be such
that the unreinforced distance between the grip of the apparatus 7.1.1 In addition to 7.1, the pipe marking shall include a
and the end of the stiffener is at least five times the nominal coding that will enable the manufacturer to determine the
outside diameter of the pipe size being tested. Apply a load location of manufacture, pipe production and resin lots, and
until permanent deformation (yield) occurs in the unreinforced any additional information which is agreed upon between the
area of the piping. manufacturer and purchaser. The manufacturer shall maintain
6.10.1.2 Results obtained from the above method pertain such records for fifty years or for the design service life of the
only to the specific outside diameter, wall thickness, and pipe, whichever is longer.
compound of the piping used in the test and specific fitting 7.1.2 All the markings in 7.1 and 7.1.1 shall be repeated at
design tested. intervals not exceeding 2 ft (0.61 m). For indented printing,
either the indented print line shall be in a color that contrasts
NOTE 22—The ability to restrain pipe to its yield as specified above with that of the pipe, or a separate print line shall be in a color
does not guarantee that a properly installed joint will prevent pullout under
actual long-term field conditions. Joints that cannot pass this test would be that contrasts with the pipe. When color is applied such as with
expected to pullout under actual long term field conditions. To date, this color stripes, a color shell or solid color pipe, yellow color shall
test is the best available for disqualifying unsound joints. be used.
6.10.2 Category 2—A mechanical joint design that provides 7.2 Pipe intended for natural gas service at elevated tem-
a seal only (see Appendix X1.5.5). A mechanical joint designed peratures greater than 73°F (23°C) shall be marked with
for this category excludes any provisions in the design or additional code letters from Table 5 (the first code letter to
installation of the joint to resist any axial pullout forces; identify the temperature of pressure rating, the second code
therefore, tensile tests are not required. letter to identify HDB at highest rated temperature, and the
6.10.2.1 The test assembly shall meet the burst test require- third code letter to identify the melt index).
ments of 5.5 when tested in accordance with Test Method
D1599 with end closures designed in accordance with Test NOTE 24—The non-mandatory, preferred order for all the items required
in the print line in the marking sections 7.1 and 7.2 are:
Method D1599. (1) Pipe size including sizing system (IPS, CTS or OD),
6.10.3 Category 3—A mechanical joint design that provides (2) SDR (DR) or minimum wall thickness,
a seal plus a pipe restraint rating equivalent to the anticipated (3) Manufacturer’s name or trademark,
thermal stresses occurring in a pipeline (see Appendix X1.4). (4) GAS,
This category has a manufacturer’s rated pipe end restraint less (5) Pipe material designation code,
(6) Elevated temperature code from Table 5,
than the value required to yield the pipe as outlined in 6.10.1 (7) ASTM D2513,
(Category 1). (8) Manufacturer’s lot code (includes date of manufacture in some cases),
6.10.3.1 The procedures and testing shall be the same as and
outlined in 6.10.1 (Category 1) except the test tensile values (9) Additional information, including date of manufacture, coil number
sequential footage, third party certification mark etc.
shall meet the rated values published by the mechanical fitting
Example: 2 in. IPS SDR 11 MANUFACTURER NAME GAS PE 2708
manufacturer. CEC ASTM D2513 LOT CODE INFO 02JAN98 coil #506.

7. Marking 7.3 PE pipe shall be marked with the melt index category in
accordance with Table 5 in addition to the marking require-
7.1 Pipe—All required marking shall be legible, visible, ments of 7.1.
and permanent. To ensure permanence, marking shall be
applied so it can only be removed by physically removing part 7.4 Markings for potable water, sewer, reclaimed water,
of the pipe wall. The marking shall (1) not reduce the wall communications or electrical use are prohibited.
thickness to less than the minimum value for the pipe, (2) not 7.5 Fittings—Fittings shall be marked D2513, as well as
have any effect on the long-term strength of the pipe, and (3) with the applicable fitting specification. All fittings shall be
not provide leakage channels when elastomeric gasket com- marked on the body or hub. The markings shall consist at least
pression fittings are used to make the joints. These marking of the manufacturer’s name or trademark, or both, the size, the
shall consist of the word GAS, the designation ASTM D2513, symbol for the type of material, and the three-letter code from
the manufacturer’s name or trademark, the nominal pipe size Table 5 (as described in 7.2). In addition, the fittings markings
including the sizing system used (IPS, CTS, or OD), DR or shall include code that will enable the manufacturer to deter-
minimum wall thickness, material designation, and date of mine the date of manufacture, the location of manufacture,
manufacture. fitting production and resin lots, and any additional information
NOTE 23—Earlier editions of Specification D2513 included PE material
which may be agreed upon between the manufacturer and
designations PE2406 and PE3408. Changes to Specification D3350 led to purchaser. The manufacturer shall maintain such records for 50
changes in the PE material designation codes that resulted in the PE years or for the design service life of the fittings, whichever is
material designations PE2406 and PE3408 being superceded by newer longer.
material designations. Additionally, OPS 49 CFR Part 192 may not
reference the most current version of D2513 and as a result may require NOTE 25—7.5 is applicable to fusion type fittings only. The marking
marking with material designation codes that are no longer included in this requirements in 7.5 are not applicable to mechanical fittings.

11
 D2513 − 16a
7.6 All PE pipe, tubing, and fusion fittings meeting the marked or affixed to the product, product packaging, or any
requirements of this specification for gas distribution systems manner agreed upon between manufacturer and end user.
shall be marked with the 16-character gas distribution compo-
nent tracking and traceability identifier in accordance with 8. Quality Assurance
Specification F2897. The 16-character code shall be expressed 8.1 When the product is marked with this designation,
in alphanumeric format and Code 128 bar code format with a D2513, the manufacturer affirms that the product was
minimum bar thickness value of 0.005 in. or an alternative 1D manufactured, inspected, sampled, and tested in accordance
or 2D bar code symbology as agreed upon between manufac- with this specification and has been found to meet the
turer and end user. All fittings shall have the 16-character codes requirements of this specification.

SUPPLEMENTARY REQUIREMENTS

GOVERNMENT/MILITARY PROCUREMENT

These requirements apply only to federal/military procurement, not domestic sales or transfers.

S1. Responsibility for Inspection—Unless otherwise speci- S2.1 Packaging—Unless otherwise specified in the contract,
fied in the contract or purchase order, the producer is respon- the materials shall be packaged in accordance with the suppli-
sible for performance of all inspection and test requirements er’s standard practices in a manner ensuring arrival at destina-
specified herein. The producer shall use his own or any other tion in satisfactory condition and which will be acceptable to
suitable facilities for the performance of the inspection and test the carrier at lowest rates. Containers and packing shall comply
requirements specified herein, unless the purchaser disap- with Uniform Freight Classification rules or National Motor
proves. The purchaser shall have the right to perform any of the Freight Classification rules.
inspections and tests set forth in this specification where such
S2.2 Marking—Marking for shipment shall be in accor-
inspections are deemed necessary to ensure that material
dance with Fed. Std. No. 123 for civil agencies and MIL-STD
conforms to prescribed requirements.
129 for military agencies.
NOTE S1.1—In U.S. federal contracts, the contractor is responsible for
inspection. NOTE S2.1—The inclusion of U.S. Government procurement require-
S2. Packaging and Marking for U.S. Government Procure- ments should not be construed as an indication that the U.S. Government
uses or endorses the products described in this specification.
ment:

ANNEXES

A1. IN-PLANT QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAM FOR PE PLASTIC PIPE AND FITTINGS UP TO
AND INCLUDING 12 IN. NOMINAL DIAMETER

A1.1 Quality Control be made in accordance with A1.2.1.1 using any of the test
A1.1.1 The following in-plant quality control program shall conditions in Table A1.1.
be used to assure compliance with this specification. The pipe A1.2.1.1 Elevated Temperature Sustained Pressure Test
and fittings producers shall maintain records on all aspects of Method—Select six random specimens produced at the manu-
this program and supply these to the purchaser, if requested. facturer’s facility using the Table A1.1 polyethylene pipe
A1.1.2 In-Plant Quality Control Test Methods—Test meth- material designation code. Test these pipe samples in accor-
ods other than those specified in Section 6 are used as long as dance with Test Method D1598 using water as the internal test
they provide equivalent results. In case of disagreement, those medium.
test methods in the applicable ASTM standard shall be used. A1.2.1.2 Passing results are (1) non-failure for all six
specimens at a time equal to or greater than the Table A1.1
A1.2 Pipe Tests “minimum average time before failure,” or (2) not more than
A1.2.1 Material and Extrusion Process Qualification— one ductile specimen failure and the average time before
Sustained pressure tests shall be made on one pipe size in the failure for all specimens shall be greater than the specified
range of 2 in., or less, and on one pipe size in the range of 21⁄2 “minimum average time before failure” for the selected Table
in., or greater. This test shall also be made on pipe from each A1.1 Condition. If more than one ductile failure occurs before
particular commercial plastic resin initially, and at least twice the Table A1.1 “minimum average time before failure,” it is
a year thereafter for material and extrusion process qualifica- permissible to conduct one retest at a Table A1.1 Condition of
tion and not as a quality control on the product. This test shall lower stress and longer minimum average time before failure

12
 D2513 − 16a
TABLE A1.1 Elevated Temperature Sustained Pressure Test RequirementsA
Test Temperature Pipe Material Designation Code Pipe Material Designation Code
Condition °F (°C) PE 2708 PE 4710
Test Temperature Hoop Minimum Average Time Test Pressure Hoop StressA , Minimum Average Time
StressA , Before Failure, psi (kPa)B Before Failure,
psi (kPa)B Hours Hours
1 176 (80) 670 (4620) 170 750 (5170) 200
2 176 (80) 650 (4480) 340 730 (5020) 400
3 176 (80) 630 (4345) 510 705 (4870) 600
4 176 (80) 610 (4210) 680 685 (4715) 800
5 176 (80) 590 (4070) 850 660 (4565) 1000
6 176 (80) 580 (4000) 1000 640 (4415) 1200
A
Calculate internal test pressure in accordance with :
2S
P5
S Do
t
21 D
Where:
P = test pressure, psig (kPa);
S = test pressure hoop stress, psi. (kPa)
DO = measured outside diameter, in. (mm)
t = measured minimum wall thickness, in (mm)
B
Test temperature tolerance ±3.6°F (±2°C). Test pressure tolerance ± 5psi (±35 kPa); test pressure hoop stress values are rounded to the nearest 5 psi or 5 kPa.

TABLE A1.2 Product Quality Control Tests

Property Frequency
for the material designation except that for Table A1.1 Condi- Diameter Once every hour or every coil,
whichever is less frequent
tion 6 no retest is permissible. Brittle failure of any specimen
in the test sample when tested at Table A1.1 Condition 1 Wall thickness Once every hour or every coil,
through 6 constitutes failure to meet this requirement and no whichever is less frequent
retest is allowed. Ring tensile or burst pressure Testing shall commence at the
A1.2.1.3 Provision for retest (if needed)—The retest sample beginning of production of a
shall be six specimens of the same pipe or tubing size and particular pipe or tubing size, and
shall continue weekly thereafter. If
material designation from the same time frame as the test production is interrupted, testing shall
sample per A1.2.1.2. For the retest, any specimen failure recommence after the interruption as
before the “minimum average time before failure” at the retest though at the beginning of
production.
condition of lower stress and longer minimum average time
before failure constitutes failure to meet this requirement.
NOTE A1.1—Table A1.1 conditions are based on PE validation require- A1.3 Fittings Tests10
ments per PPI TR-3 with Condition 6 being 85% of Condition 1 test
pressure hoop stress and six times greater minimum average time before A1.3.1 The fittings tests listed in the following sub-
failure. Conditions 2 through 5 are linear stress and time interpolations paragraphs shall be conducted at the frequencies indicated.
between Conditions 1 and 6. The intent of multiple conditions is to
maintain equivalent performance criteria, but provide for retest in the NOTE A1.4—When any fitting fails to meet the requirements of this
event of ductile failure. The test pressure hoop stress levels for Conditions specification, or the applicable referenced fitting specification, additional
2-5 are linear interpolations for arbitrarily chosen time increments. An tests should be made on fittings produced back to previous acceptable
equivalent performance requirement, however, may be determined by result to select the fittings produced in the interim that do meet the
arbitrarily choosing a test pressure hoop stress between Conditions 1 and requirements. Fittings that do not meet the requirements shall be rejected.
6 and linearly interpolating the minimum average time before failure. For A1.3.2 Dimensions:
example for PE 4710 material, at 670 psi test pressure hoop stress, the
minimum average time before failure would be 927 hours (200 + (750 – A1.3.2.1 Socket Fittings:
670) × ((1200 – 200) / (750 – 640)) = 927). (a) Socket Entrance, Bottom and Minimum Internal
A1.2.2 Product Quality Control (Note A1.2) The tests in Diameters—Once an hour or one out of ten fittings, whichever
Table A1.2 shall be made per size per extrusion die at the is less frequent.
denoted frequencies and the test results recorded and filed for (b) Wall Thickness—At the beginning of each production
inspection on request. setup for each cavity.
A1.3.2.2 Butt Fusion Fittings:(a) Outside Diameter and
NOTE A1.2—When the pipe fails to meet this specification in any test, Wall Thickness—Once an hour or one out of ten fittings,
additional tests shall be made on the pipe produced back to the previous whichever is less frequent.
acceptable result to select the pipe produced in the interim that does pass
the requirement. Pipe that does not meet the requirement shall be rejected. A1.3.3 Other Tests:
NOTE A1.3—For pipe sizes above 4-in. nominal diameter, the quick
burst test (Test Method D1599) may be replaced by the Apparent Ring
Tensile Strength Test (Test Method D2290) if agreed to between the 10
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
purchaser and the manufacturer. be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:F17-1018.

13
 D2513 − 16a
A1.3.3.1 PE Fittings—At the start of each production run, [2] Apparent tensile strength tests of a ring cut from a fitting,
whenever production conditions have changed, or when the with the load oriented normal to the knit line. See Note A1.6.
resin lot is changed, but not less frequently than once per 500 [3] Burst testing of the fitting. See Note A1.6.
fittings thereafter, the following tests shall be made: (b) The integrity of at least one part from each mold cavity
(a) The knit line strength for at least one fitting from each shall be verified, using a method selected by the manufacturer
cavity shall be demonstrated by one of the following tests: as appropriate for this specific product and process.
[1] Crushing a fitting, or a portion of a fitting, in a manner NOTE A1.5—Separation in the knit constitutes a failure.
that applies load in the direction normal to the knit line. See NOTE A1.6—In tests 2 and 3 the strength requirements shown in the
Note A1.5. annexes must be met.

A2. IN-PLANT QUALITY CONTROL PROGRAM FOR 14-IN. AND LARGER DIAMETER
POLYETHYLENE PIPE

A2.1 Visual inspection of every length of pipe for work- A2.3 Manufacturers of pipe shall conduct such other quality
manship defects shall be carried out at the manufacturer’s control tests as are appropriate to their manufacturing opera-
plant. Measurements of outside diameter and wall thickness tions that will provide assurance that the product requirements
shall be made for each hour’s production or each length of of Section 5 will be met in place of the actual performance of
pipe, whichever is less frequent. the specified tests.
NOTE A2.1—The pressure tests required under product requirements are
A2.2 Lengths of pipe that are shorter than standard shipping tests for performance. These tests are not adaptable to in-plant quality
lengths are butt-fused to produce standard lengths. Such control. Quality control tests have not been standardized because the
build-up lengths must otherwise meet all of the product requirements for such tests vary substantially from one manufacturing
requirements of this specification. plant to another.

APPENDIX

X1. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

X1.1 General t = minimum wall thickness, in. (mm).

X1.1.1 The design of a PE piping system for natural gas X1.2.2 The following expression can be used to determine
service must include consideration of the combined effects of the burst pressure or sustained pressures needed in testing:
time, internal and external stress, and environment as an
P b 5 2S y / ~ DR 2 1 ! (X1.2)
overall basis for selecting a specific kind and size of PE pipe.
The design stress for PE pipe used for distribution of natural where:
gas and petroleum fuels is regulated by the U.S. Department of Pb = burst pressure, psig (MPa),
Transportation as published in OPS 49 CFR Part 192 of the Sy = yield stress, psi (MPa), and
Code of Federal Regulations. DR = dimension ratio.
P s 5 2S f / ~ DR 2 1 ! (X1.3)
X1.2 Design Equations
X1.2.1 Relationship Between Pipe Stress and Pressure— where:
The following expression is used to relate stress, pressure, pipe Ps = sustained pressure, psig (MPa),
size, and wall thickness: Sf = fiber stress psi (MPa), and
DR = dimension ratio.
P 5 2S/ ~ DR 2 1 ! (X1.1)
X1.2.3 Relation between Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB)
or and Hydrostatic Design Stress (HDS)—The HDS is determined
by multiplying the HDB by a design factor, f. The design factor,
2S/ @ ~ D o /t ! 2 1 #
f, has a value less than 1.0.
where: HDS 5 ~ HDB! ~ f ! (X1.4)
S = stress in the circumferential or hoop direction, psi NOTE X1.1—The actual choice of design factor for a given installation
(MPa), must be reviewed by the design engineer taking into account federal, state,
P = internal pressure, psig (MPa), and local code requirements. For example, the design factor for gas
DR = dimension ratio, pipelines under the jurisdiction of the Department of Transportation is
0.32.
Do = average outside diameter, in. (mm), and NOTE X1.2—In some countries, the ISO MRS method is used to

14
 D2513 − 16a
determine the maximum operating pressure (MOP) using the formula E = modulus of elasticity, psi (MPa), instantaneous, at
MOP = 2 MRS/(DR-1) C, which incorporates the pipe DR (dimension
ratio), the MRS (minimum required strength) of the pipe material as
73°F (23°C),
determined by ISO 9080 and ISO 12162 and the design coefficient (C). C = coefficient of expansion, in./in./°F, (mm/mm/°C), and
Guidance on selection for the value of C is provided in the following ∆t = maximum temperature minus minimum temperature,
references: ISO 4437, ISO 12162, and PPI TR-9. °F (°C).
X1.3 Design Stress and Internal Pressure for Natural X1.4.1.1 The measured stress has been determined to be
Gas less than that calculated. This difference is caused by the stress
relaxation in viscoelastic materials.
X1.3.1 The design stresses for natural gas pipe are based on
the hydrostatic design basis at 73°F (23°C) obtained in X1.4.2 Calculate the theoretical force sustained at the fixed
accordance with Test Method D2837. The test medium should points (typically joints) in a pipe member as follows:
be natural gas or simulated natural gas except that water may F 5 S 3A (X1.6)
be used where previous tests have shown that for the particular
type of plastic, water and natural gas give essentially the same where:
test results. The hydrostatic design basis of the PE presently F = force, lbf (N),
included in the applicable ASTM specifications are as follows: S = stress, psi (MPa), and
A = cross-sectional pipe wall area, in.2 (mm2).
PE Pipe Hydrostatic Design
Material Designation Basis at X1.4.3 Calculate pipe contraction in unrestrained pipe
73°F (23°C), psi (MPa)
PE2708 1250 (8.6)
caused by a reduction in temperature as follows:
PE4710 1600 (11.0) ∆L 5 k 3 L 3 C 3 ∆t (X1.7)
X1.3.2 The design stresses for natural gas at service tem-
where:
peratures above 73°F (23°C) should be based on hydrostatic
design basis of the pipe that are applicable for the particular use ∆L = change in length,
k = 1000 for ∆L (mm), L (m), C (°C−1), ∆ t (°C), or
temperature.
k = 12 for ∆L (in.), L (ft), C (°F−1), ∆ t (°F),
X1.3.3 The design stress for PE pipe for fuel gases other L = original length,
than natural gas should be based on hydrostatic design basis C = coefficient of linear expansion, and
categories that have been established with the intended gas as ∆t = temperature change.
the pressurizing medium (see X1.7.2 for information on the
effect of common LPG fuels on the long-term strength of PE X1.5 Installation Procedure
pipes). X1.5.1 It is recognized that certain minimum requirements
NOTE X1.3—Water may be used in lieu of a particular fuel gas where exist for the support of earth loads from backfill and other
previous tests have shown that the results obtained with water are external forces. Proper installation techniques can be used with
equivalent. flexible conduit (as defined by Marston and Spangler (2)) to
X1.3.4 The design stresses for natural gas are obtained by support relatively large earth loads without excessive deflec-
multiplying the hydrostatic design basis by design factors or tion by mobilizing lateral passive soil forces. Proper installa-
service factors according to the class of location as described in tion technique ensures that the necessary passive soil pressure
Chapter IV of the American National Standard Code for at the side of the pipe will be developed and maintained. It is
Pressure Piping ANSI B31.8, or, for gas operators in the United also recognized that internal pressures may be valuable in
States, Subpart C of the Minimum Federal Safety Standards for minimizing the deflection caused by earth loads. Installation
Transportation of Natural and Other Gas by Pipeline, OPS 49 procedures described in Recommended Practice D2774,
CFR Part 192. ANSI B31.8, and the AGA Plastic Pipe Manual for Gas
Service11 are recommended.
X1.3.5 For liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) applications, a
maximum operating pressure of 30 psig (206 kPa) is recom- X1.5.2 Unrestrained PE pipe expands and contracts from
mended in NFPA 58 by the members of the National Liquefied thermal change significantly more than metallic pipe. This ratio
Petroleum Gas Association. Liquefied petroleum gas has a may be of the magnitude of ten to one. Typical coefficients of
higher condensation temperature than does natural gas; this thermal expansion for unrestrained pipe for PE is 9.0 × 10-5
maximum pressure is recommended to ensure that plastic pipe (in./in.)/°F 24.30 (mm/mm)°C.
is not subjected to excessive exposure to LPG condensates. X1.5.2.1 Mains and service lines installed by insertion are
(See X1.7.1.) considered to approximate unrestrained conditions inside the
casing pipe except at end connections. Direct-burial pipe is
X1.4 Thermal Stress considered to be partially restrained by passive soil pressures
X1.4.1 Calculate the longitudinal stress (theoretical) in- except in the vicinity of joints.
duced in a pipe member between fixed points as follows: X1.5.3 Internal pressure, earth settlement, ground
S 5 E 3 C 3 ∆t (X1.5) movement, and thermal contraction impose stresses on the pipe

where:
11
Available from American Gas Association (AGA) 400 North Capitol Street,
S = stress, psi (MPa),
NW Suite 450 Washington, DC 20001, http://www.aga.org.

15
 D2513 − 16a
that can be transmitted to joints. These stresses are additive. term effect of natural gas (methane, but with minor amounts of
Installation practices should reflect the need for continuous other gases) at 73°F (23°C) has been shown (3,4) to be
support and containment of the pipe through suitable bedding essentially equivalent to that of water at 73°F (23°C) for PE
and backfilling procedures. Attention should be given to all pipe.
joints, particularly to transition joints between PE and metal X1.7.2 Other Fuel Gases—In accordance with this
pipe. specification, PE materials must have not less than a 1250 psi
X1.5.4 It is desirable to have pipe joints that are as strong as HDB for 73.4°F, for methane. It has been shown (5, 6, and 7)
the pipe itself in the longitudinal (axial) direction. Thermal that aliphatic gaseous fuels of higher molecular weights than
fusion, and mechanical joints outlined in 6.10, Category 1 can methane (natural gas) somewhat reduce the long-term strength
provide such joint strength. The joint strength is a function of of PE pipe materials compared to when using methane or water
the assembly procedure, the design of the fitting, and the pipe as the pressurizing medium. The reduction in PE’s long-term
material and dimensions (see X1.5.5). strength caused by gaseous propane, propylene and butane is
X1.5.5 For those mechanical devices that are not designed modest, well under 20 %. On this basis one report (5) considers
to restrain the pipe against pullout forces, provisions must be an HDB of 1000 psi, for 73.4°F, as a reasonable and conser-
made in the field to prevent pullout, keeping in mind that vative design basis for PE piping materials intended for LPG
mechanical joints are vulnerable to the effects of internal fuel gas service.
pressure, temperature changes, earth settlement, and ground X1.7.2.1 However, it has also been shown by the above
movement. A somewhat limited alternative is to use long referenced studies that propane, propylene and butane, when in
sleeve-type fittings that permit limited movement without loss the liquid phase, can cause a greater reduction in long-term
of pressure seal. Otherwise, provisions must be made in the strength, up to 40 %. Accordingly, the use of PE piping to
field to prevent pullout through suitable anchoring at the joint. convey LPG gaseous fuels should recognize this effect and the
design and operation of such piping should consider the
X1.5.6 Plastic pipe joined with mechanical connectors that possibility for the occurrence of condensates. Extensive expe-
utilize a compression-type gasket must be reinforced by means rience has shown that the NFPA maximum recommended
of a tubular stiffener that extends at least under the section of operating pressure of 30 psig for LPG systems (see X1.3.4)
pipe being compressed by the gasket and the gripping device both minimizes the possible occurrence of condensates and
(where used). The stiffener shall be nonsplit-type design to gives adequate consideration of the effect of LPG fuels on the
meet the performance requirements recommended by the long-term strength of PE piping.
manufacturer of the fitting in which it is used, and the joint X1.7.2.2 It has been reported (8,9) and (10), that during the
shall meet the test requirements outlined in 6.10. heat fusion joining of PE piping that has been in service
X1.5.7 Kinks found in the pipe shall be cut out. Pipe with conveying fuel gases that consist of, or that include heavier
kinks shall not be placed in service. hydrocarbons, the PE surfaces being heated in preparation for
fusion sometimes exhibit a bubbly appearance. This bubbling
X1.6 Repair Considerations is the result of the rapid expansion (by heat) and passage of
X1.6.1 Repairs may be made to PE pipe under appropriate absorbed heavier hydrocarbon gases through the molten mate-
circumstances. Selection and installation considerations for the rial. Heat fusion (butt, socket, saddle, or electrofusion) joint
use of full encirclement band clamps are available in ASTM strength may be reduced by the presence of the heavier
Guide F1025. Additional information on repair of PE pipe may hydrocarbons. Pimputkar et al (8) conclude that for a system
be found in manufacturers’ literature, the AGA Plastic Pipe operating at 50psi and conveying a mixture of as high as 16
Manual for Gas Service,11 ANSI B31.8 Gas Transmission and volume percent in methane the propane concentration in PE
Distribution Piping Systems, and in the ASME Guide for Gas will be under 0.2 percent, sufficient to sometimes show some
Transmission and Distribution Piping Systems.12 bubbling, but not high enough to effect any significant degra-
dation in fusion strength. However, if the concentration of
X1.7 Environmental Effects propane in PE exceeds 0.2 percent, there is the risk of a rapid
X1.7.1 Natural Gas—The natural gas of commerce consists and large drop in fusion strength. Field tests to verify the level
of methane as the principal constituent with minor amounts of of contamination and subsequent degradation of joint strength
other gases, which can include other hydrocarbons (for are not currently available. Therefore, in the case of PE pipe
example, ethane, propane, butane, pentane), inert gases (for that has previously been installed in these types of services,
example, nitrogen, carbon dioxide), and odorants. The long one should use mechanical fittings to join or repair the pipe.
NOTE X1.4—PPI Technical Report TR 22–88 (5) lists maximum
12
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME operating pressures for various minimum operating temperatures at which
International Headquarters, Three Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http:// condensates will not form in LPG systems in which the primary fuels are
www.asme.org. propane and butane.

16
 D2513 − 16a
REFERENCES

(1) Allman, W.B., “ Earthloading Design Considerations for Polyethylene (6) Henrich, R.C., “ Use of Polyethylene Pipe for Propane Distribution
Gas Distribution Systems,” Proceedings of the Fifth Plastic Pipe Systems,” Fifth Fuel Gas Pipe Symposium, Houston, TX, November,
Symposium, November 13–15, 1974, Houston, TX, A.G.A., 1515 1974.
Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22209, pp. 55–171. (7) Viebke, J., Tranker, T., Hedenquist, and Gedde, V.W., “Long-Term
(2) Spangler, M.G., “ Secondary Stresses in Buried High Pressure Lines,” Behavior of MDPE Gas Pipes Exposed to Realistic Propane
Iowa State College Bulletin, Engineering Report 23 of the Iowa Environments,” Thirteenth Fuel Gas Pipe Symposium, San Antonio,
Engineering Experiment Station, 1954, 1955. TX, November, 1993.
(3) Kuhlman, H. W., Leninger, R. I., and Wolter, Fritz, “Investigation of (8) Sudheer M. Pimputkar, Barbara Belew, Michael L. Mamoun, Joseph
Engineering and Design Concepts for Plastics Pipe for Gas Distribu- A. Stets, “ Strength of Fusion Joints Made From Polyethylene Pipe
tion Application,” presented at ANSI B31.8 meeting in St. Charles, IL, Exposed to Heavy Hydrocarbons,” Fifteenth International Plastics
October 19, 1965. Pipe Symposium, Lake Buena Vista, Florida, October 1997.
(4) Palermo, E. F., and Cassady, M. J., “Comparison of Long-Term Effect (9) S.M. Pimputkar, J.A. Stets, and M.L. Mamoun, “Examination of Field
of Water and Methane on PE 2306 and PE 3406 Pipe Performance,” Failures,” Sixteenth International Plastics Pipe Symposium, New
presented at the American Gas Association Plastic Material Commit- Orleans, Louisiana, November 1999 .
tee Winter Workshop, February 23, 1982. (10) Gas Research Institute Topical Report GRI-96/0194, “ Service
(5) “Polyethylene Plastic Piping Distribution Systems for Components of Effects of Hydrocarbons on Fusion and Mechanical Performance of
Liquefied Petroleum Gases,” PPI Technical Report TR-22. Polyethylene Gas Distribution Piping,” May 1997.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

(1) D792 Test Methods for Density and Specific Gravity (Relative (5) ISO 11922–1 Thermoplastics pipes for the conveyance of fluids-
Density) of Plastics by Displacement2 –Dimensions and tolerances—Part 1: Metric series6
(2) D1603 Test Method for Carbon Black Content in Olefin Plastics2 (6) PPI TR-4 Hydrostatic Design Bases and Maximum Recommended
(3) D4218 Test Method for Determination of Carbon Black Content in Hydrostatic Design Stresses for Thermoplastic Piping Materials7
Polyethylene Compounds By the Muffle Furnace Technique2 (7) National Fire Protection Association: NFPA 54,Storage and Han-
(4) D4883 Test method for density of Polyethylene by the Ultrasound dling Liquefied Petroleum Gases8
Technique2

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Committee F17 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (D2513 – 16)
that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved December 15, 2016.)

(1) Revised 6.6.1.2.

Committee F17 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D2513 – 14ɛ1) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved December 1, 2016.)

(1) Revised 4.10.1.

17
 D2513 − 16a
ASTM International takes no position respecting the validity of any patent rights asserted in connection with any item mentioned
in this standard. Users of this standard are expressly advised that determination of the validity of any such patent rights, and the risk
of infringement of such rights, are entirely their own responsibility.

This standard is subject to revision at any time by the responsible technical committee and must be reviewed every five years and
if not revised, either reapproved or withdrawn. Your comments are invited either for revision of this standard or for additional standards
and should be addressed to ASTM International Headquarters. Your comments will receive careful consideration at a meeting of the
responsible technical committee, which you may attend. If you feel that your comments have not received a fair hearing you should
make your views known to the ASTM Committee on Standards, at the address shown below.

This standard is copyrighted by ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959,
United States. Individual reprints (single or multiple copies) of this standard may be obtained by contacting ASTM at the above
address or at 610-832-9585 (phone), 610-832-9555 (fax), or service@astm.org (e-mail); or through the ASTM website
(www.astm.org). Permission rights to photocopy the standard may also be secured from the Copyright Clearance Center, 222
Rosewood Drive, Danvers, MA 01923, Tel: (978) 646-2600; http://www.copyright.com/

18