ISO 13255:2010

Overview

ISO 13255:2010 is an international standard specifying a test method for airtightness of joints in thermoplastics piping systems used for soil and waste discharge inside buildings. Developed by ISO Technical Committee ISO/TC 138, this standard provides a precise procedure to assess the integrity and air-tightness of joints under specified pressure and deflection conditions. Adhering to ISO 13255:2010 ensures plumbing systems maintain reliable performance, prevent leaks, and uphold building safety and hygiene standards.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application
  Specifies testing airtightness of joints in thermoplastic pipes designed for internal soil and waste discharge systems. The method applies to pipe sections and fittings assembled according to manufacturer’s instructions.

• Testing Principles
  The method involves subjecting an assembly of pipes and fittings to internal air pressure (~0.1 bar) filled halfway with water, monitoring for air leaks via bubble formation from a soapy water solution.

• Apparatus Requirements

  • End-sealing devices tailored to joint type, preventing longitudinal forces
  • Air pressure sources with controlled pressure ±10%
  • Pressure measuring instruments
  • Water supply/outlet devices to fill and drain the test assembly

• Test Piece Preparation
  Test assemblies include combinations of spigot ends and socket diameters taken from the smallest to largest tolerances. The pipe or fitting is fixed in a clamped apparatus allowing pressure application and angular deflection without causing separation.

• Test Procedure

  • Conducted at (23 ± 5) °C using cold tap water
  • Fill pipe halfway with water, maintain test pressure for 5 minutes
  • Manually apply maximum angular deflections (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) for 1 minute each to simulate operational stresses
  • Inspect visually for leaks or component damage

• Reporting
  Test reports must document reference standards, component details, test temperature, pressure, duration, applied deflections, leakage observations, any component alteration, and test dates.

Applications

ISO 13255:2010 is essential for:

• Manufacturers of thermoplastics piping systems ensuring product quality and compliance
• Building consultants and engineers verifying joint airtightness in soil and wastewater discharge systems
• Quality control laboratories conducting routine and type testing for product certification
• Plumbers and contractors assessing pipe joint reliability under operational conditions
  This standard supports durability and leak prevention in plumbing systems within residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, minimizing odor escape, contamination, and structural damage from leaks.

Related Standards

• ISO 1452 series – Plastics piping systems for potable water and drainage
• ISO 4435 – Plastics piping systems for non-pressure underground drainage
• EN 1329 series – Plastic piping systems for drainage and sewerage
• ISO 7198 – Plastics fittings for pressure piping
• ISO 15874 – Plastics piping systems for hot and cold water installations
  These related standards complement ISO 13255 by addressing broader aspects of plastics piping system performance, installation, and testing for various fluids and building services.

Adopting ISO 13255:2010 testing protocols enables stringent airtightness verification for thermoplastic joint assemblies, helping ensure efficient, safe, and durable soil and waste discharge systems inside buildings. This facilitates compliance with international plumbing standards and promotes sustainable building infrastructure.