Overview
ISO 13257:2018 sets out the standardized test method for evaluating the resistance of thermoplastics piping systems to elevated temperature cycling in non-pressure applications. Thermoplastic pipes and fittings are often used in waste, soil, and drainage systems inside buildings or buried underground within the building structure. This standard ensures that such systems perform safely and reliably under repeated exposure to alternating hot and cold water, which can cause mechanical stress and deformation over time.
The method applies to systems with pipe and fitting components of nominal outside diameters up to and including 200 mm. Results may be extrapolated to products of larger diameters if they are from the same technical range.
Key Topics
- Test Methodology:
The standard details the laboratory procedure for subjecting test assemblies to cycles of hot and cold water to simulate real-use thermal variations. The key parameters include:
- 1,500 cycles of alternating hot (up to 93°C) and cold (as low as 15°C) water
- Monitoring for leaks and visual inspection for sagging after the test
- Use of precise temperature and sagging measurement devices
- Test Assemblies:
Procedures cover assemblies for pipes with and without integral sockets, for different diameters (≥40 mm and <40 mm), ensuring comprehensive applicability to installation types.
- Performance Criteria:
- Assessment of leaktightness before, during, and after thermal cycling
- Measurement of pipe sagging post-cycling (maximum permissible sagging defined based on pipe diameter)
- Inspection for observable deformation or damage to joints and fittings
- Reporting:
A complete test report must include all relevant test conditions, assembly identification, results, and any exceptional observations that could influence performance.
Applications
The ISO 13257:2018 standard is vital for:
- Product Development:
Manufacturers of thermoplastic pipes and fittings use this test to validate new designs for use in indoor and underground non-pressure drainage, soil, and waste systems.
- Quality Assurance:
The method offers a repeatable, internationally recognized way to assess the durability and reliability of non-pressure thermoplastic piping, supporting compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Specification Reference:
Designers, engineers, and contractors can refer to this standard when selecting pipe products for building drainage and waste systems, ensuring the chosen products are certified for temperature cycling resistance.
- Extrapolation for Large Systems:
Although direct testing is limited to 200 mm diameter, results can justify the reliability of larger pipes from the same series, supporting broader system certification.
Related Standards
For comprehensive project compliance, consider these related international standards:
- ISO/TS 7024: Plastics piping systems for soil and waste discharge (low and high temperature) inside buildings – Thermoplastics – Recommended practice for installation.
Useful for ensuring proper installation practices accompany conformity to ISO 13257:2018.
- ISO 21003 (various parts): Pertains to multilayer piping systems, which may be relevant for multi-material thermoplastic pipe assemblies.
- ISO 15874: Plastic piping systems for hot and cold water installations – Polypropylene (PP).
- ISO 3633: Plastics piping systems for soil and waste discharge – Polyvinyl chloride (PVC-U) specifications.
Practical Value
ISO 13257:2018 supports enhanced confidence in the durability and lifetime performance of non-pressure thermoplastic piping systems, reducing costly failures linked to temperature-induced fatigue and deformation. Its adoption helps promote safer, more reliable waste and drainage installations in both residential and commercial buildings, and streamlines international trade by harmonizing performance test methods for piping components worldwide.
Keywords: thermoplastics piping systems, non-pressure applications, temperature cycling resistance, ISO 13257:2018, drainage pipes, waste pipes, test method, product standard compliance, building drainage systems.