Plastic pipe testing is one of the most important parts of the manufacturing process of different pipes made of polyethylene, polypropylene or PVC. These tests are crucial for manufactures to determine the quality, strength and tolerance of their products.
In the modern world, plastic pipes serve a myriad of purposes, including conveyance of drinking water, waste water, chemicals, heating and cooling fluids, irrigation and much more. Therefore, it’s fair to say that there’s a strong dependence on plastic pipes for life in general. Since plastic pipes have become quite indispensable, manufacturers are expected to supply quality products, adhering to various international standards.
In general, most plastic pipes manufactured must meet the following international standards:
| ISO1133 | ASTM D 1238 | ISO1183-1 |
| ISO1167 | ASTM D 1598 | ASTM D 1599 |
| ISO3127 | EN 744 | EN1411 |
| ISO7686 | ISO75 | ISO306 |
| ISO2507 | ASTM D 1525 | ASTM D 648 |
Qualitest’s team of experts are well versed in international standards and can assist you with selecting the right pipe testing equipment for your unique requirements. Book a free discovery call here.
In the world of plastic pipe testing, the following tests are common:
Hydrostatic Pressure Testing
The purpose of this test is to determine the resistance of thermoplastics pipes and short-time hydraulic burst to constant internal water pressure at a constant temperature. It is applicable to thermoplastic pipes intended for the conveyance of fluids.
Environmental Stress Cracking Testing:
The purpose of this test is to determine the susceptibility of ethylene plastics to environmental stress-cracking when subjected to conditions such as soaps, wetting agents, oils, or detergents. The test is performed by slowly bending the test specimens and placing them in a holding clamp. The clamp and specimens are then placed in a test tube and immersed in a specified reagent. The test tube is sealed and placed in a constant-temperature bath. Multiple specimens can be tested at the same time.
Drop Weight Impact Testing
Impact tests are performed on plastic pipes to determine the impact required to break or rupture the pipe and its components.
Pipe Opacity Testing
These tests are performed to determine the opacity of pipes and fittings. The pipes must meet ISO 7686:2005 standards that specifies a method for the determination of the opacity of plastics pipes and fittings. It is an ideal device for pipe manufacturers, research and inspection institutions.
Thermal Recycling Testing
These tests are carried out to evaluate the function of hot and cold water-pipes under a certain pressure for thousands of cycles. A test assembly of pipes and fittings is subjected to temperature cycling by the passage of water under pressure using hot and cold water alternately for a specified number of cycles. While being subjected to temperature cycling, parts of the assembly of pipes and fittings are maintained under tensile stress and/or flexural strain by the use of static clamps.
Rapid Crack Propagation Testing
These tests are conducted to determine the critical pressure or critical temperature for rapid crack propagation of plastic pipe, PVC or other materials. These tests are especially important for the assessment of the performance of thermoplastic pipes intended for the supply of gases or liquids.
Manhole Mechanical Properties Testing
A manhole mechanical properties test is carried out to gauge the performance of inspection chambers, manhole frames as well as manhole walls. These tests are conducted mainly to determine mechanical properties such as well seat, manhole well seat and wellbore. These testing machines can also be used to test shear strength and the axial loading performance of manhole base.
Ring Stiffness Testing
A ring stiffness test is conducted to determine ring stiffness, ring softness, and compression of thermoplastic pipes having a circular cross-section. It conforms to the requirements of all kinds of plastic pipes, such as structured-wall pipes, PE corrugated pipes, helically wound pipes, etc. The ring stiffness is determined by measuring the force and the deflection while deflecting the pipe at a constant deflection speed.
Explore our range of Plastic Pipe/PVC Testing Equipment here. We also deliver custom testing machinery based on your unique requirements.
Qualitest, with its trusted supplier network, is well aware of the various testing requirements that arise in the plastic pipe and PVC testing industry. Besides efficient logistics and high level of standards, we guarantee the best prices as well. Our products are built to last and various government agencies, educational institutions and private businesses have benefitted from our advanced state-of-the-art testing products.
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