ASTM F1802-22 PDF

Overview

ASTM F1802-22 is the Standard Test Method for Performance Testing of Excess Flow Valves (EFVs) as designated by ASTM International. This standard outlines a reliable, reproducible method to determine the performance of EFVs used in thermoplastic natural gas service lines for residential and small commercial applications. By providing clear guidelines for evaluating EFVs, this test method helps promote safety and consistency in gas distribution systems, ensuring devices meet essential requirements for flow limitation or shut-off during abnormal conditions.

Key Topics

• Types of Excess Flow Valves:
  • Excess Flow Valve-Bypass (EFVB): Allows a controlled amount of gas to bypass after tripping, supporting automatic reset.
  • Excess Flow Valve-Non Bypass (EFVNB): Designed to shut off gas flow almost completely when tripped, typically requiring manual reset.
• Performance Characteristics Assessed:
  • Trip flow rate (activation flow)
  • Pressure drop across the EFV
  • Bypass or leak rate post-trip
  • Reset verification
  • Effects of possible contaminants on performance (e.g., kerosene and ferric oxide)
• Testing Scope and Conditions:
  • Tests are performed using air, with flow rates reported as standard cubic feet per hour (SCFH) of 0.6 relative density natural gas.
  • Temperature ranges: 0°F to 100°F (-18°C to 38°C), with tests typically conducted at 67°F (19.4°C).
  • EFVs evaluated must fit thermoplastic piping systems between 1/2 CTS and 1-1/4 IPS, rated for pressures up to 125 psig.

Applications

ASTM F1802-22 is used by various stakeholders for several critical applications:

• Product Design and Development: Manufacturers utilize this standard to ensure newly developed EFVs meet performance expectations, especially regarding trip flow, reset function, and resistance to environmental contaminants.
• Quality Control: Regular testing per ASTM F1802-22 enables manufacturers to maintain consistent production quality, verifying each batch of EFVs performs within specified parameters.
• Utility Acceptance Testing: Natural gas utilities apply this method to evaluate and approve EFVs for installation in residential or small commercial natural gas service lines, promoting safer distribution networks.
• Field Performance Validation: While the standardized test may not perfectly represent field conditions, its use helps refine selection and deployment of EFVs by establishing comparability and performance baselines.
• Contamination Impact Assessment: The method includes procedures for evaluating how exposure to kerosene or kerosene-ferric oxide mixtures may impact EFV functionality, reflecting real-world pipeline conditions.

Related Standards

When implementing or referencing ASTM F1802-22, the following standards and codes are often relevant:

• ANSI B31.8: Provides requirements for gas transmission and distribution piping systems, including terminology and safety.
• DOT Part 192 (49 CFR): Federal regulations for pipeline safety in natural gas distribution.
• ASTM D1600: Covers abbreviations related to plastics.
• ASTM E177: Details how to use terms precision and bias in ASTM test methods.
• ASTM E691: Guides conducting interlaboratory studies to determine test method precision.
• ASTM F412: Defines terminology for plastic piping systems.

Practical Value

Adhering to ASTM F1802-22 ensures that excess flow valves installed in thermoplastic gas service lines are thoroughly tested for performance and resilience, reducing the risk of uncontrolled gas release. This standard supports regulatory compliance, product quality assurance, and the overall safety and reliability of natural gas distribution systems. Following its protocol also enables utilities and manufacturers to consistently assess and report EFV performance, facilitating improved system maintenance and public safety.

Keywords: Excess Flow Valve (EFV), performance testing, thermoplastic natural gas service, bypass EFV, non-bypass EFV, ASTM F1802-22, gas safety standards, gas distribution, valve testing.