SIST EN ISO 16486-2:2025 PDF

Overview

EN ISO 16486-2:2024 - Plastics piping systems for the supply of gaseous fuels - Part 2 specifies requirements for pipes made from unplasticized polyamide (PA‑U) intended to be buried and used in gas supply networks. Adopted by CEN (November 2024) and aligned with ISO 16486‑1, this part defines the physical and mechanical properties, test parameters, dimensional characteristics and marking rules for PA‑U pipes used with fusion and mechanical jointing techniques.

Keywords: EN ISO 16486-2:2024, PA‑U, unplasticized polyamide, plastics piping systems, gaseous fuels, buried gas supply.

Key Topics and Requirements

• Material and compound - Pipes made of unplasticized polyamide (PA‑U) manufactured in accordance with ISO 16486‑1.
• Physical and mechanical properties - Clauses cover conditioning, required mechanical performance and physical characteristics (see Clauses 7 and 8).
• Geometrical characteristics - Measurement of dimensions, mean outside diameters, out‑of‑roundness, wall thickness (minimum and tolerances) and related testing (Clause 6).
• Jointing compatibility - Design and testing assume connection by mechanical jointing, electrofusion or butt fusion; fusion compatibility requirements are specified.
• Marking and identification - Mandatory marking elements and format to ensure traceability and correct use (Clause 9).
• Test parameters and methods - Defines parameters for referenced test methods so laboratories and manufacturers use consistent procedures.
• Installation-related guidance - Includes annexes such as a normative squeeze‑off technique (Annex A) and informative data on water uptake over time as a function of sample thickness (Annex B).
• Hydrogen note - ISO 16486‑1 (and the Introduction to this part) provides information on PA‑U suitability for hydrogen and hydrogen‑natural gas blends.

Applications and Who Uses the Standard

• Gas network operators and utilities - specifying buried distribution mains and service lines using PA‑U piping.
• Manufacturers and suppliers - ensuring pipes meet required dimensional, mechanical and marking rules for market access in CEN/ISO regions.
• Designers and specifiers - selecting compatible jointing methods (electrofusion, butt fusion, mechanical) and verifying fusion parameters covered elsewhere in the ISO 16486 series.
• Testing and certification laboratories - performing tests using the standardized test parameters given in this document.
• Installation contractors and fusion operators - referencing the standard alongside ISO 16486‑6 (installation practice) and training guidance (ISO/TS 16486‑8).

Related Standards

• ISO 16486‑1 - general requirements for PA‑U piping systems (material and components)
• ISO 16486‑3, ‑4, ‑5, ‑6 - components, system fitness for purpose, recommended installation practices
• ISO/TS 16486‑7, ‑8 - conformity assessment and training for fusion operators
• CEN/TS 12007‑6 - related CEN guidance on installation practice for gas infrastructure

EN ISO 16486‑2:2024 is essential for stakeholders involved in the specification, manufacture, testing and installation of underground PA‑U gas piping systems, helping ensure safety, compatibility and traceability across the supply chain.