Material & System Selection

Material and System Selection

1
Table of Contents

Basic Comparison of U.S. Piping Standards to European ......................................................................................................1.2

Definition of Basic Units of Measure ................................................................................................................................................1.6
A Brief Explanation of ASTM Standard Specifications..............................................................................................................1.7
Plastic Piping Systems Components ..................................................................................................................................................1.8
Description of Plastics ..........................................................................................................................................................................1.8
The Period Table of the Elements and How it Relates to Plastics ...................................................................................1.8
The General Bond Strength of Plastics ........................................................................................................................................1.9
General Bond Strengths for Polyatomic Molecules (Bond Dissociation Energy) .........................................................1.9
Abrasion Resistance of Plastics ..................................................................................................................................................... 1.11
Taber Abrasion Tester ...................................................................................................................................................................... 1.11
Deflection Temperature (Heat Distortion Temperature) ....................................................................................................... 1.11
Tensile Strength of Plastics ............................................................................................................................................................. 1.11
Permeation Resistance of Plastics ................................................................................................................................................. 1.11
Description of Individual Plastics ..................................................................................................................................................... 1.13
Physical Properties of Plastics ........................................................................................................................................................... 1.18
Abbreviations used for Plastics ......................................................................................................................................................... 1.19
Physical Data and Aids to Identification of Plastics ................................................................................................................ 1.20
Properties of Plastic in Relation to Temperature ....................................................................................................................... 1.21
Comparison of the Strength Characteristics of Metal and Plastic.................................................................................... 1.22
Comparison of Contraction and Expansion after Cooling and Heating a Pipe 1 meter long ............................ 1.23
Development of Stress and Force when the Expansion and Contraction of Plastics Pipes are Restricted ...... 1.24
Service Life of Plastics .......................................................................................................................................................................... 1.25
Long-term Strength and Permissible Loads .................................................................................................................................. 1.25
Long-term Behavior of SYGEF ........................................................................................................................................................... 1.26
Long-term Behavior of PVC................................................................................................................................................................ 1.27
Long-term Behavior of CPVC ............................................................................................................................................................ 1.28
Long-term Behavior of PP ................................................................................................................................................................... 1.29
Long-term Behavior of HDPE ............................................................................................................................................................. 1.30
Permissible Working Pressures for George Fischer Plastic Pipe Fittings ........................................................................... 1.31
Application Range of Plastic Piping ............................................................................................................................................... 1.32
Thermal Application Range of Sealing Materials .................................................................................................................... 1.35
Application Range of Various Plastics with Dangerous and Aggressive Media ......................................................... 1.36
Application Range of Plastic Pipe ................................................................................................................................................... 1.36
The Installation of Plastic Pipelines in Premises where there is Danger of Explosion and
for the Transport of Ignitable Media .................................................................................................................................. 1.37
Plastic Pipelines for the Transport of Disinfectants ................................................................................................................... 1.38
Comparison of Joining Methods: Threaded vs Solvent Cemented Schedule 80 PVC Pipes ................................. 1.40
Threaded PVDF Pipe vs Interference Heat Fusion (SYGEF) ............................ 1.40

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 Basic Comparison of U.S. Piping Standards to European
Since much of the technical data in different pressure ratings. It has also
this catalog was developed in Europe resulted in different pressure ratings for
and based upon metric standards, it is the same diameter pipe in different
endeavored in this foreword to make materials. A similar philosophy was
a few basic comparisons between U.S. followed with the introduction of SDR
and European practice in order to (Standard Dimension Ratio) pipe sizes.
make the information more useful to The OD was fixed as was the thick-
users. ness. The pressure ratings for all
dimensions of the same material is
George Fischer Products constant, but varies for each plastic
material used.
George Fischer offers the following In Europe under the auspices of ISO
range of thermoplastic products: (International Organization for Stan-
dardization) a different approach was
Stock Location fostered. ISO R 161s objective was to
U.S.A. Europe fix the OD of plastic pipe and working
pressures (vs. wall thickness). The
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
nominal pressures designated were in
Pipe/Fittings (IPS) X X kilograms force per square centime-
(metric) X X ter: i.e.
Valves (IPS) X X 1 kgf/cm2 = 14.22 psi
(metric) X X
The preferred series was:
Chlorinated Polyvinyl 1 kgf/cm2 = 14.22 psi
Chloride (CPVC) 2.5 kgf/cm2 = 35.50 psi
4 kgf/cm2 = 56.90 psi
Pipe/Fittings (IPS) X X 6 kgf/cm2 = 85.30 psi
(metric) X X 10 kgf/cm2 = 142.20 psi
Valves (IPS) X X 16 kgf/cm2 = 227.50 psi
(metric X X
At a later date with the introduction of
Polypropylene (PP) the Sl system into ISO standards, the
Pipe/Fittings (IPS) X bar was adopted for use instead of
(metric) X X Kgf/cm2. A bar equals 14.5 psi. Since
Valves (metric) X X the difference was so small the bar
(IPS) X X has been essentially substituted for
Kgf/cm2 for general use with no
adjustment for the differences.
SYGEF
Pipe (metric) X X Subsequently ISO 4065-1978(E) was
Fittings (metric) X X developed which proposed a preferred
Valves (metric) X X Pipe Series S where wall thicknesses
(IPS) X X are designated. The value of S when
Sheet (metric) X X compared with the U.S. SDR system is:
Rod (metric) X X SDR = 2S + 1
Tube (metric) X X Pipe Series S: 2.5 3.2 4 5 6.3 8 10 12.5 16 20 25 32 etc.
Corresponding
SDR Series: 6.0 7.4 9 11 13.6 17 21 26 33 41 51 65
Pipe Philosophy
Thus ISO 4065 would have the net
The basic philosophies differ somewhat effect of standardizing the preferred
between the U.S. and Europe. In the number series for determining wall
U.S. the adoption of steel schedule 40, thicknesses. The different wall thick-
80 and 120 pipe ODs and wall nesses used then result from the differ-
thicknesses for plastic pipe has re- ent pipe ODs used in Europe and the
sulted in pipe of different sizes having U.S.

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Pressure Ratings
Pressure ratings in both the U.S. and
Europe are derived using the ISO
formula
2s = Do 1
P t
where
S = hydrostatic design stress (psi)
P = pressure rating (psi)
Do = Average outside diameter
(inch)
t = minimal wall thickness (inch)
Do/t = R (or SDR)
Circumferential stress is the largest
stress present in any pressurized
piping system. It is this factor that
determines the pressure that a section
of pipe can withstand. The relationship
of stress, pressure and pipe dimensions
is described by the ISO Equation
shown above.
Long-Term Strength
To determine the long-term strength of
thermoplastic pipe, lengths of pipe are
capped at both ends (see Fig.1) and
subjected to various internal pressures,
to produce circumferential stresses that
will produce failure in from 10 to
10,000 hours. The test is run according
to ASTM D-1598-Standard Test for
Time-to-Failure of Plastic Pipe Under
Long-Term Hydrostatic Pressure.
The resulting failure points are used in
a statistical analysis (outlined in ASTM
D-2837) to determine the characteristic
regression curve that represents the
stress/ time-to-failure relationship for
the particular thermoplastic pipe
compound under test. This curve is
represented by the equation:
Log T = a + b log S
where: a and b are constants
describing the slope and
intercept of the curve, and T
and S are time-to-failure and
stress, respectively.
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01_ALL 3 6/7/02, 10:24 AM
Material & System Selection
The regression curve may be plotted
on log-log paper, as shown in Fig. 2
and extrapolated from 10,000 to 1
100,000 hours (11 .4 years). The stress
at 100,000 hours is known as the
Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB) for that
particular thermoplastic compound.
From this HDB, the Hydrostatic Design
Stress (HDS) is determined by applying
the service factor multiplier, as de-
scribed below.
Length = 7 x min.
dia. 12" min.
for any size
O.D. = Do
wall = t
End closurecemented
on cap or mechanical joint
Fig. 1
Long-Term Strength Test per ASTM D-1598.
Pipe test specimen per ASTM D-1598
for Time-to-Failure of Plastic Pipe
Under Long-Term Hydrostatic Pressure
10
9 20 seconds 8500 PSI
LOG STRESS (PSI X 1000)
8
7
6
5
LTS = 4790
HDB 4000 PSI
Envelope of
4 experimental points
LTS = 3830
3
HDS = HDB X 0.5
2
= 2000 PSI
1
0.1 1 10 100 1000 10M
LOG TIME (hours)
100M 1MM
Fig. 2
Regression Curve-Stress/Time-to-Failure
for PVC Type 1.
Service Factor
The Hydrostatic Stress Committee of
the Plastic Pipe Institute (PPI) has
determined that a service (design)
factor of one-half the Hydrostatic
Design Basis would provide an ad-
equate safety margin for use with
water to ensure useful plastic-pipe
service for a long period of time.
While not stated in the standards, it is
generally understood within the industry
that this long period of time is a
minimum of 50 years.
Some engineers in the U.S. have felt
that a safety factor of 2.5 would better
accommodate surge pressures found in
water systems and have accordingly
used a service factor of 0.4.
1.3
 System Summary
A comparison of the two systems
follows:

U.S. Europe
(inch) (metric)

Schedule 40 Nominal pressures of:

80
120 1 kgf/cm2
2.5
SDR 64 4
41 6
32.5 10
26 16
21
17
13.5

ODs are fixed in both systems. Wall

thickness is fixed in the U.S. while
pressure rating is fixed in Europe.

Table 1 gives a comparison of actual

ODs for PVC pipe sizes from 1/8 " to
12".

Table 2 gives a comparison showing

pressure ratings OD, wall thickness and
weight per foot in pounds for selected
sizes and systems.

(see following pages)

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 Material & System Selection
T able 1
Pipe ODs
U.S. (ANSI) Europe (ISO) 1
DN d
No r m al bo r e A ct u al OD (normal bors) (actual OD)
inches inches millimeters inches millimeters inches
1/8 .405 6 (.236) 10 (.394)
1/4 .540 8 (.315) 12 (.472)
3/8 .675 10 (.394) 16 (.630)
1/2 .840 15 (.591) 20 (.787)
3/4 1.050 20 (.787) 25 (.984)
1 1.315 25 (.984) 32 (1.260)
1 1/4 1.660 32 (1.260) 40 (1.575)
1 1/2 1.900 40 (1.575) 50 (1.969)
2 2.375 50 (1.969) 63 (2.480)
2 1/2 2.875 65 (2.559) 75 (2.953)
3 3.500 80 (3.150) 90 (3.543)
4 4.500 100 (3.937) 110 (4.331)
5 5.563 125 (4.921) 140 (5.512)
6 6.625 150 (5.906) 160 (6.299)
8 8.625 200 (7.874) 225 (8.858)
10 10.750 250 (9.843) 280 (11.024)
12 12.750 300 (11.811) 315 (12.402)

Table 2
Sample Comparison of PVC Pipe
U.S. Water Pressure Nominal OD Wall Thickness
Class Ratings in psi size inches Approx. weight
@ 23C inches inches lbs./ft.
Threaded Unthreaded
850 1
/2 .840 .109 .159
400 2 2.375 .154 .684
Schedule 40
320 4 4.500 .237 1.985
280 6 6.625 .280 3.458
420 850 1
/2 .840 .147 .203
200 400 2 2.375 .218 .932
Schedule 80
160 320 4 4.500 .337 2.730
140 280 6 6.625 .432 5.207
160 1
/2 .840 .062 .099
160 2 2.375 .091 .421
SDR 26 160 4 4.500 .173 1.502
160 6 6.625 .255 3.167
200 1
/2 .840 .062 .099
200 2 2.375 .113 .513
SDR 21 200 4 4.500 .214 1.823
200 6 6.625 .316 3.887

Europe @ 20C
145 1
/2 .787 .059 .092
145 2 2.480 .118 .570
10 bar 145 4 4.331 .209 1.750
145 6 6.299 .303 4.340
232 1
/2 .787 .059 .092
16 bar 232 2 2.480 .185 .867
232 4 4.331 .322 2.621
232 6 6.299 .468 5.490

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 Definition of Basic Units of Measure
A short definition of units of measure
used is included here, however, a
more complete conversion table is
found later in this booklet.
ft, cm, m
the foot, centimeter and meter are the
basic length units of the English, cgs
and mks, or Sl systems.
lb, g, kg
the pound, gram and kilogram are the
basic mass (absolute weight) units of
the English, cgs and mks, or Sl sys-
tems.
Ibf, gf, kgf
the pound-force, gram-force and
kilogram-force are the conventional
gravitational force units used in tech-
nology and engineering in the English
and cgs or technical mks systems but
not in the Sl metric system. The
kilogram-force is equal to the
kilo-pond of German technology
which used the symbol kp.
N
the newton - the basic force unit of
the mks metric system used throughout
the Standard International System. The
newton is the analog of the poundal
and the dyne, the more scientific
force units of the English and cgs
systems which produce unit accelera-
tion of unit mass. The force of 1
newton accelerates 1 kilogram at 1
meter/second2.
1 N = 1 kg x 1 m/s2
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01_ALL 6 6/7/02, 10:24 AM
J or Nm
the joule or newton-meter is the Sl
unit of energy or work of thermal,
electrical, mechanical or chemical
origin. A force of 1 newton over a
distance of one meter produces 1
newton-meter or 1 joule of energy.
1 J = 1 Nm
W
the watt or 1 joule per second, is the
Sl unit of power.
1 W= 1J/s= 1 Nm/s
N/m2 (or Pa)
the pascal (pa) is the Sl unit of force/
area (stress or pressure) expressed
equivalently as the newton per square
meter. The choice was to avoid the
use of the pascal as neither particu-
larly useful or informative, and stress is
expressd as N/cm2, a valid submul-
tiple of N/m2, although it is not a
preferred form in Sl.
1 Pa = 1 N/m2
1 N/cm2 = 10 kN/m2 (where kN
= kilonewtons = 1,000 newtons)
cP
the centipoise, a subunit of the poise,
P, the unit of viscosity in the cgs
system not preferred in Sl.
1 P = 0.1 N s/m2 = 0.1 Pa s,
(or 0.1 pascal-second)
1 cP = 0.001 N s/m2 = 0.001
Pa s or 1 m Pa s
Hz
the hertz or 1 cycle per second.

A Brief Explanation of ASTM Standard Specifications
ASTM D-1784 Rigid Poly Vinyl
Chloride) (PVC) Compounds and
Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride)
CPVC Compounds
This specification covers rigid plastic
compounds composed of poly (vinyl
chloride), or vinyl copolymers, and the
necessary compounding ingredients
may consist of lubricants, stabilizers,
nonpoly (vinyl chloride) resin modifiers,
and pigments essential for processing,
property control, and coloring.
ASTM D-2464 Threaded Poly
(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe
Fittings, Schedule 80
This specification covers poly (vinyl
chloride) (PVC) threaded Schedule 80
pipe fittings. Included are requirements
for materials, workmanship, dimensions
and burst pressure.
The tapered pipe threads in this
specification refer toANSI B1.20.1 (was
B2. 1 ) and it is this portion to which
all George Fischer valves comply.
ASTM F437 (formerly included in D-
2464) Threaded Chlorinated Poly
(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe
Fittings, Schedule 80"
Material & System Selection
ASTM F439 (formerly included in
D-2467) Socket Type Chlorinated 1
Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic
Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80"
ANSI B16.5 American National
Standard Pipe Flanges and Flanged
Fittings
This standard covers flanges and
flanged fittings in all pressure classes.
Bolt hole circle diameters are called
out and bolt hole diameters, as well as
other dimensions. It is in Class 150
which George Fischer valves comply
where applicable.
ASTM D-4101 (formerly D-2146)
Standard Specification for
Propylene Plastic Injection and
Extrusion Materials
ASTM D-3222 Standard
Specification for unmodified Poly
(Vinylidene Fluoride) (PVDF) Molding
Materials
ASTM D-2657 Standard Practice
for Heat Joining Polyolefin Pipe and
Fittings

ASTM D-2467 Socket Type Poly

(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe
Fittings, Schedule 80
This specification covers poly (vinyl
chloride) (PVC) Schedule 80 socket
type pipe fittings. Included are require-
ments for materials, workmanship,
dimensions and burst pressure.

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 Plastic Piping Systems Components
The following paragraphs describe key
properties and applications for the
more popular plastics and
fluoroplastics. The reader is encour-
aged to use this information when
selecting plastic components from
George Fischer.
Description of Plastics
Within the broad category of plastics
as materials, George Fischer offers
piping system components constructed
of plastics known as fluoroplastics and
thermoplastics. The category of
fluoroplastics includes those polymers
containing one or more atoms of
fluorine in their chemical and molecu-
lar makeup and structure. The basic
group known as fluoroplastics includes
PTFE, PVDF, ECTFE, CTFE, ETFE, PFA and
FEP. Fluoroplastics as a class offer
excellent characteristics, performing
well in aggressive chemical elements
at temperatures from -328F (-200C)
to 500F (260C). In addition to very
good mechanical properties, these
materials have low wettability, and in
many cases, an exceptionally low
coefficient of friction.
The group of plastics known as ther-
moplastics includes those which are
"melt processible," i.e., may be welded
or injection molded using standard
manufacturing techniques. PTFE and
UHMW PE are two popular plastics
which have well defined melt points
but are not thermoplastics since they
are not melt processible. These plastics
are compression moldable into stock
shapes for machining into piping
system components.
The Period Table of the Elements and
How it Relates to Plastics
In illustrating the differences in plastics,
it is best to highlight the distinctions
between members of the classes of
polymers including fluoroplastics,
thermoplastics, and polyolefins (a class
including PP, PE and UHMW PE), using
a comparison of their basic chemical
structures. Many of the physical
property and chemical resistance
differences stem directly from the type
and arrangement of atoms in the
polymer chains.
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01_ALL 8 6/7/02, 10:24 AM
The periodic table arranges the
elements in horizontal rows, called
periods, according to their electron
structure and atomic weights. The
table arranges the basic elements of
nature not only by atomic structure but
by chemical nature as well. Chemists
have placed the elements into classes
which have similar properties, i.e. the
elements and their compounds which
exhibit similar chemical behavior.
These classes are the alkali metals,
alkaline earth metals, transition metals,
rare earth series, actinide series, other
metals, nonmetals, and noble (inert)
gases.
One group in the periodic table of
particular importance to fluoroplastics,
within the nonmetals category is
known as the halogens. These ele-
ments include fluorine, chlorine, bro-
mine, and iodine. These elements are
the most electronegative elements in
the period table, meaning they have
the strongest attraction to gain an
electron (from another element) and
become a stable structure. Fluorine is
the most electronegative halogen of
them all. Having this property, fluorine
bonds strongly with carbon and
hydrogen atoms but not well with
fluorine itself. The carbon-fluorine
bond, the predominant bond in PVDF
and PTFE and which gives it such
important properties, is among the
strongest known organic compounds.
The fluorine acts like a protective
sheath for other bonds of lesser
strength within the main chain of the
polymer. The carbon-hydrogen bond,
of which plastics such as PP and PE
are composed, is considerably weaker.
The carbon-chlorine bond, a key bond
in PVC, is weaker yet.
Between parallel polymer chains,
similar bond forces between such
adjacent elements become established
and greatly determine the physical
properties and strength of the plastic
itself. The intermolecular bond forces
are known as Van der Waals forces.
Although Van der Waals forces
between adjacent atoms along poly-
mer chains are far smaller than the
bond strengths between atoms within
 Material & System Selection
General Bond Strengths for Polyatomic
Molecules (Bond Dissociation Energy)
a discrete molecule itself, the forces
are additive along the length of the
polymer chain and subsequently
Bond
Type
Typical
Plastic
Bond
Energy
Molecular
Separation
1
dictate physical (kcal/mole) (Angstroms)
characteristics of the plastic such as
tensile strength, melt point, impact F-F PTFE 37.7 1 .42
strength, heat deflection temperature, CI - CI PVC 57.9 1 .99
creep resistance, and more. Br - Br - 46.1 2.28
F-H PTFE, PVDF 134.6 0.96
CI - H PVC, ECTFE 103.1 1 .27
The General Bond Strength of Plastics Br - H - 87.5 1 .41
A good indication of the comparative O-H - 110.6 0.96
strength of Van de Waals forces H-H PP, PE 104.2 0.74
between polymer chains is data which C-C All 83.0 1 .54
shows relative bond strengths between C-F PTFE 107.0 1 .32
atoms of polyatomic molecules. Inter- C - CI PVC 78.5 1 .76
C-H PP, PE 98.8 1 .07
pretation of the data in the table
C-O - 84.0 1 .43
below substantiates the expected
advantage of having a high degree of
fluorine in a plastic (i.e. PVDF). Fluorine
shows the highest affinity for hydrogen
(the most electropositive element in the
Periodic Table) and a strong attraction
for carbon as well.

While it is extremely important as to

the specific elements contained in a
plastic's structure, the actual arrange-
ment of elements in the molecule, the
symmetry of the structure, and the
degree of branching of the polymer
chains are highly important as well.
The plastics that contain carbon-
hydrogen bonds (i.e. PP and PE) and
carbon-chlorine bonds (i.e. PVC,
ECTFE, CTFE) are noticeably different
in the important property of chemical
resistance from a fully fluorinated
plastic such as PTFE.

Within the following paragraphs

describing individual plastics, the
simplified molecular structures may be
examined to see how structurally alike
many plastics are. However, some
seemingly minor structure result in
considerable differences in melt points,
use temperatures, and physical
strengths.

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 1.10

01_ALL 10 6/7/02, 10:24 AM


Abrasion Resistance of Plastics
Plastics as a general class offer
sizeable performance differences
compared to metals with respect to
abrasion resistance, coefficient of
friction, wettability, and self lubricating
qualities. PTFE, with the lowest surface
energy of any common solid, has
exceptional antistick properties. Addi-
tionally, PTFE has an excellent low
coefficient of friction, especially at
highloads where it can be less than
0.01. However, PTFE is not optimal
with respect to wear resistance, and
PTFE may not be ideal for moving
parts where friction is prevalent.
Plastics such as UHMW PE, PVDF,
CTFE, and Nylon have such excellent
wear resistance that they prove to be
5 to 10 times better in this regard
than 304 Stainless Steel. One widely
known test method is the Taber
Abrasion Test, wherein an abrasive
wheel is cycled over the face of a
plate of the material being tested,
and the resultant weight loss of the
plate is measured after 1000 cycles
of the ring.
Material & System Selection
Deflection Temperature
(Heat Distortion Temperature)
The heat deflection temperature test is
an ideal method for comparing the
high temperature capabilities of com-
1
mercial polymers. It is strongly linked to
the softening point of the material, and
gives a measure of the rigidity of the
polymer under a load as well as
temperature. Unexpectedly, the
fluoroplastics with the highest melt
points of the group have the lowest
deflection temperatures. The heat
distortion test basically is one in which
a bar of the plastic in question is
heated uniformly in a closed chamber
while a load of 66 psi or 264 psi is
placed at the center of the horizontal
bar. When a slight deflection of
0.25mm at the center is noted, as the
temperature is raised, it is noted and
called its HDT. HDT is a test to show
how easily, or not so easily as the
case may be, the Van der Waals
forces of intermolecular bonding can
be overcome in a plastic. In a practi-
cal sense, HDT indicates how much
mass (weight) of which the object must
be constructed to maintain the desired
form stability and strength rating.

ASTM D648
Taber Abrasion Tester
(Barasion Ring CS-10, Load 1 kg) 66 psi 264 psi Melt Point

Nylon 6-10 5mg / 1000 cycles PTFE 250F 132F 620F

UHMW PE 5 PVC 135F 140F <285F
PVDF 5 - 10 LDPE - 104F 221F
PVC (rigid) 12 - 20 UHMW PE 155F 110F 265F
PP 15 - 20 PP 225F 120F 330F
CPVC 20 PFA 164F 118F 590F
CTFE 13 FEP 158F 124F 554F
PS 40 - 50 PVDF 298F 235F 352F
Steel (304 SS) 50 ECTFE 240F 170F 464F
ABS 60 - 80 CTFE 258F 167F 424F
PTFE 500 - 1000 ETFE 220F 165F 518F

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 Tensile Strength of Plastics Permeation Resistance of Plastics

The tensile strength of a material is
calculated by dividing the maximum
load applied to a material prior to its
breaking, divided by the original cross-
sectional area of the piece. Thus, as
opposed to toughness which is a
measure of the energy required to
break a material, tensile strength is a
measure of the stress required to
deform the material prior to breakage.
Stress is defined as the force applied
over the area on which it operates.
Tensile strength alone must not be
used to determine the ability of a
plastic to resist deformation and
maintain form stability, and other
mechanical characteristics such as
elasticity, ductility, creep resistance,
hardness, and toughness should be
used to determine the optimal plastic.
If the chemical structure of plastics is
analyzed, it may be seen that those
plastics which have atom types with
the highest likelihood of intermolecular
bonding, indeed do show to be the
highest in tensile strength. In many
applications, the lower tensile strength
of a plastic is offset by adding extra
thickness and mass to the part being
designed.
Tensile Strength of Plastics
@ 73F (25C) @ Break
The driving force for gases and vapors
penetrating and/or diffusing through
plastics is basically the difference in
concentrations between the environ-
ments inside and outside of the plastic
barrier. The mathematic equations
known as Fick's First and Second Laws
of Diffusion enable certain parameters
to be identified for individual plastics.
These are known as diffusion coeffi-
cients, solubility coefficients, and perme-
ability coefficients. Measurements must
be made to finally determine equations
which may be used to calculate the
thicknesses required for protective
barriers, etc. Whereas permeation is a
major consideration in dealing with thin
films, thick sections of 1/8 inch (3mm)
or more generally eliminate any perme-
ation situation unless one is dealing
with media detection levels of 1 ppm or
lower.
Comparative Resistance pf Plastics to
Permeation* of Gases
Oxygen Hydrogen Nitrogen Helium Carbon
Dioxide
SYGEF 2 10 4 25 8
PP 25 180 10 200 100
HPDE 30 - 40 22 18 20 200
PVC 3 10 1 16 16
*Permeability through sheet thickness of 1 mm film in
cm3 / m2 x24h x 1bar

PVDF 8000 psi

ETFE 6500 psi
CTFE 4500 - 6000 psi
PFA 4000 - 4300 psi
ECTFE 7000 psi
PTFE 2500 - 6000 psi
FEP 2700 - 3100 psi
PVC 6000 - 7500 psi
PE 1200 - 4550 psi
PP 4500 - 6000 psi
UHMW PE 5600 psi

Comparative Resistance to Gas Permeability for Fluoropolymers at 73F

through a 100 um Film
Gas Units Fluoropolymer Type
PVDF PTFE FEP PFA
Water Vapor g / m2 x day x bar 2 5 1 8
Air cm3 / m2 x day x bar 27 2000 600 1150
Oxygen cm3 / m2 x day x bar 20 1500 2900 -
Nitrogen cm3 / m2 x day x bar 30 500 1200 -
Helium cm3 / m2 x day x bar 600 35000 18000 17000
Carbon Dioxide cm3 / m2 x day x bar 100 15000 4700 7000

1.12

01_ALL 12 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Material & System Selection
Description of Individual Plastics

PTFE (Polytetrafluorethylene) PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

PVC is the largest volume of the vinyl
1
PTFE is made in larger amounts than
family of plastics. Overall it has
all other fluoroplastics combined. It is
excellent basic properties, may be
resistant to practically every known
easily processed and welded, and is
chemical or solvent in combination
exceptionally economical in cost.
with the highest useful temperature
Homopolymer grades of PVC com-
limit of commercially available plastics.
prise over 80% of all PVC used, and
Fabricated PTFE has a melt point of
contain 56.8% chlorine by weight.
620F (327C) and a useful tempera-
Chlorinated PVC, in which the chlo-
ture range from -436F (-260C) to
rine content is increased from 56.8%
500F (260C). PTFE for plastic applica-
to about 67%, increases the heat
tions has a very high molecular weight
deflection temperature at 264 psi from
which results in a melt viscosity about
155F (68C) to 218F (103C). PVC is
1 million times higher than is accept-
a thermally sensitive thermoplastic to
able for conventional thermoplastics.
which compounding ingredients must
As a result, the usual processing
be added to allow it to be
techniques like injection molding are
processible. Heat stabilizers are
not possible. PTFE resin is pressed into
required, in addition to lubricants,
shapes under high pressure at room
fillers, plasticizers, impact modifiers,
temperature and then heated to 700F
pigments, and processing aids. Since
(371C) to complete the molding
PVC is amorphous and not crystalline
(sintering process) and adjust the
in form as most other thermoplastics
crystalline content. The high melt
are, it has a difficult melt point to
viscosity provides form stability and
detect. The glass transition tempera-
this sintering operation is almost
ture where major softening occurs is
always carried out with unsupported
167F (75C) for PVC and 230F
article sin air ovens. Ram extrusion of
(110C) for CPVC. The structures for
granular resin is used to make rods,
PVC and CPVC are as shown:
tubes, and other continuous shapes.
Impact strength is high and PTFE has
an exceptionally low coefficient of
friction. Since its commercial develop-
ment in 1948, PTFE has served as the H Cl H Cl
standard against which other plastics,
particularly fluoroplastics, are com- C C C C
pared.
PVC
H H H H

F F H H Cl H
C C C C C C
CPVC
F F H Cl H Cl

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01_ALL 13 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 PE (low density polyethylene)
Polyethylene is a thermoplastic mate-
rial which varies from type to type
according to the particular molecular
structure of each type, i.e. its crystallin-
ity, molecular weight, and molecular
weight distribution. These variations
are made possible through changes in
polymerization conditions used in the
manufacture of PE. The terms low,
medium, and high density PE usually
refer to the ASTM designations based
on density of the unmodified PE. For
example, low density PE has a specific
gravity of 0.91 to 0.925 g/cc whereas
medium density and high density
versions have ranges of 0.926 to
0.940 and 0.941 to 0.959 g/cc re-
spectively. The densities, being related
to basic molecular structure, are
indicators of the end products proper-
ties and processing characteristics. Low
density PE has increased toughness,
stress cracking resistance, clarity,
flexibility, and elongation. It also has
reduced creep and mold shrinkage.
Low density PE has a melt point of
221F (105C) if it is the common
branched version. Another type, known
as linear low density PE (LDPE) has a
melt point of 252F (122C). PE of
higher density has better permeation
barrier properties, hardness, abrasion
resistance, chemical resistance, and
surface gloss. With all various PE
types, the basic molecular unit is,
H H
C C
H H
It is important to note that photo or
light oxidation will occur when natural
PE is exposed to UV radiation, usually
from the sun. With the exception of
carbon black, other UV stabilizers do
just a partial job of screening UV light.
1.14
01_ALL 14
UHMW PE
Ultra-high molecular weight polyethyl-
ene is set apart from other polyethyl-
enes by its molecular weight, and its
extremely long linear molecular chain.
As defined by ASTM, UHMW PE must
have a molecular weight of at least
3.1 million. As a comparison, the
molecular weight of pipe grade PE is
500,000. The long linear chains of
UHMW PE provide great impact
strength, abrasion resistance (sliding),
toughness, and freedom stresscracking,
in addition to the typical PE character-
istics of chemical inertness, lubricity,
cyclical fatigue resistance, and low
coefficient of friction. Because of its
extremely high molecular weight,
UHMW resin cannot be processed
using conventional processing tech-
niques for plastics. As UHMW is
heated above its melt point of 265F
(129C), it will not change much in
shape but simply changes from
opaque to clear. Compression molding
of sheets and ram extrusion of profiles
and pipe are the standard manufac-
turing techniques. Parts may be made
into their final form by machining,
sintering, or forging. Since UHMW is
very nearly chemically inert, it has FDA
and USDA sanction for use in direct
food contact, as well as complying
with National Bureau of Standards
requirements for handling of water
and medical supplies. One important
consideration to keep in mind is the
attack of UHMW by UV light, seri-
ously deteriorating impact strength
within a relatively short period of time.
H H
C C
H H
6/7/02, 10:24 AM

PP (polypropylene)
Polypropylene is a crystalline polymer
with a melting point of 330F (165C).
It is the lightest of the most common
thermoplastics with a specific gravity
of 0.91 if unmodified. The key proper-
ties in addition to this are its high
heat resistance, stiffness, and chemical
resistance. It may be usable for low
stress structural applications up to
275F (135C) but for piping applica-
tions has an upper limit of 212F
(100C). Although excellent in chemical
resistance with respect to handling
caustics, solvents, acids, and other
organic chemicals, it is not recom-
mended for use with oxidizing type
acids, detergents, low-boiling hydro-
carbons, alcohols, and some chlori-
nated organic materials. Unpigmented,
natural polypropylene is degraded by
UV light unless it is shielded, pig-
mented, or otherwise stabilized. The
heat deflection temperature for PP
ranges from 195F (91C) to 240F
(116C) which is higher than other
common plastics. Within the structural
nature of PP is a distinction between
isotactic PP (which composes 97% of
PP and wherein the polymer units are
highly ordered as the chemical struc-
ture is drawn to look), and atactic PP
which is a viscous liquid type PP found
with the PP polymer matrix. Also, in
some cases, PP is actually a combina-
tion of PE and PP which is accom-
plished during a second stage of the
polymerization. This is called copoly-
mer PP, and gives the plastic much
less of a brittle characteristic than PP
which is entirely homopolymer. Co-
polymer withstands impact forces
down to -20F (-29C) whereas ho-
mopolymer is very brittle below -40F
(-40C).
H H
C C
H H C H
H C C C C
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01_ALL 15
Material & System Selection
ECTFE (ethylene
chlorotrifluoroethylene)
ECTFE is a melt processible thermoplas-
tic with a melt point of 473F (245C). 1
It contains 6.5% hydrogen and 24.6%
chlorine. It has useful applications in
the temperature range from -105F (-
76C) to 302F (150C). Overall it has
good physical properties and excellent
resistance to creep. To obtain good
extrusion characteristics it must be
compounded with a small amount of
processing aid. Otherwise it is weld-
able using hot inert gas (nitrogen).
Chemically it has excellent resistance
to solvents, caustics, chlorides, and
most corrosive chemicals. ECTFE is sold
under the Halar trademark by
Ausimont.
H H F F
C C C C
H H F Cl
ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene)
ETFE has a high melt point of 518F
(270C) and retains good mechanical
properties from cyrogenic temperature
levels to an upper limit of 350F
(177C). It has a continuous working
temperature limit of 300F (149C). ETFE
is a tough plastic with good tensile
strength, high impact resistance, and is
more like the conventional engineering
plastics than softer fluoropolymers. It
lacks the full chemical resistance
properties of PTFE since it is predomi-
nantly composed of alternating units of
ethylene and tetrafluorethylene. Next to
PVDF, ETFE has the highest tensile
strength of polymers containing fluorine.
However, it lacks good elongation
properties at elevated temperatures.
Tefzel is a familiar trademark of DuPont
for ETFE.
H H F F
H H F F
1.15
6/7/02, 10:24 AM
 PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride)
PVDF is a thermoplastic fluoropolymer
with a melt point of 352F (178C)
and a wide service range from
-40F (-40C) to 284 F (140 C). It has
a very linear chemical structure, and
similar to PTFE with the exception of
not being fully fluorinated, i.e. having
3% hydrogen by weight. Its draw-
backs in the area of chemical resis-
tance include unsuitability with strong
alkalis, fuming acids, polar solvents,
amines, ketones, and esters. It has a
high tensile strength as well as a high
heat deflection temperature. It is
readily weldable, offers high purity
qualities, and is resistant to permeation
of gases. The trademark Solef is used
by Solvay and Kynar by Atochem for
PVDF resin.
F H
C C
F H
1.16
01_ALL 16
CTFE (chlorotrifluoroethylene)
CTFE is a crystalline plastic related
structurally to PTFE with the exception
of the addition of a chlorine atom in
the basic chemical structure. CTFE has
a melt point of 424 F (218C) and is
melt processible, but processing is
difficult because of its high melt
viscosity and tendency to degrade too
readily with a resultant loss of me-
chanical properties. CTFE has 30.5%
chlorine by weight and although this
chlorine in its structure allows it to
become weldable, there are subse-
quent limitations to its use. It has high
compressive strength, low creep, and
good elastic memory. It is non-wetting
and experiences no moisture absorp-
tion. In its noncrystalline form CTFE is
relatively resilient and flexible, although
by heat treatment between 300F
(149C) and 380 F (193C) it can be
crystallized and rendered considerably
harder and less flexible. Molded
articles of CTFE are therefore very
sensitive to conditions of the molding
cycle, and under some conditions
impact strength is relatively low. The
trademark Kel-F is used by 3M Corpo-
ration for the resin.
F F
C C C
F Cl
6/7/02, 10:24 AM

FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene)
FEP is a fully fluorinated thermoplastic
which was introduced in 1960. It was
chiefly designed to provide melt
processibility properties to the unique
and high desirable properties of PTFE.
Although FEP is thermally superior to
other plastics, it still sacrificed some
temperature resistance compared to
PTFE. This is primarily evidenced by its
lower tensile strength and low heat
deflection temperature. FEP has some
degree of branching, but consists
predominantly of linear chinas and
has a crystalline melting point of 554F
(290C). However, FEP exhibits
changes in physical strength after
prolonged exposure above 400F
(204C) which largely account for the
lower temperature rating for this
product compared to a fully fluori-
nated polymer such as PTFE. FEP is a
relatively soft plastic with lower tensile
strength, wear resistance, and creep
resistance than other plastics. It is
insensitive to notched impact forces
and has excellent permeation resis-
tance to most liquids except some
chlorinated hydrocarbons.
F F F F
C C C C
F F F F C F
F C C C C C
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01_ALL 17
Material & System Selection
PFA (perfluoroalkoxy resin)
In 1972 DuPont produced another fully
fluorinated polymer known as PFA, one
which is also melt processible with 1
better melt flow and molding properties
than FEP. Although PFA has somewhat
better physical and mechanical proper-
ties than FEP above 300F (149C) and
can be used up to 500F (260C), it
lacks the physical strength of PTFE at
elevated temperatures and must be
reinforced or designed with thickness to
compensate for its softness. For in-
stance, although PFA has reasonable
tensile strength at 68F (20C), its heat
deflection temperature is the lowest of
all fluoroplastics. PFA melts at 590F
(310C) and a service temperature of
500F (260C) is claimed due to the
fact that pyrolysis studies show that
weight losses at that temperature are
essentially negligible. Although PFA
matches the hardness and impact
strength of PTFE, it sustains on 1/4 of
the life of PTFE in flexibility tests. PTFE is
generally advantageous over PFA in
the areas of deformation under load
(creep resistance), Taber abrasion
resistance, low temperature Izod impact
strength, heat distortion temperature,
continuous service temperature, fatigue
resistance (cycles to failure), and
elongation.
F F F F F
F F F O F
Rf
(Rf=CnF2n+1)
1.17
6/7/02, 10:24 AM
 Physical Properties
Introduction General Properties
Today, plastics materials are used The plastics materials in use today,
extensively in pipeline construction. with their various physical properties,
meet most of the requirements of
These are frequently unsuitable for pipeline construction. The suitability of
plastics piping, and should therefore a material should be tested before it is
be avoided. chosen for a particular application.
Apart from the special characteristics of
It is essential, and has in certain each type of material, there are some
countries become a regulation, that which are common to all plastics.
only persons familiar with the material
may be employed in plastics pipeline
construction. Light weight easy handling and
transport
This does not mean that plastics
Non-corrosive no protective coating
present the engineer with greater necessary
mechanical and technical problems.
Smooth surfaces hydraulic advantages,
On the contrary. little or no build-up of
scale or abrasion
Sometimes, however, plastics piping is
designed and installed on the basis of Flexibility 'give' in plastics pipe is
techniques traditionally associated with an aid to installation
piping in metal, even though it is an
Insulating properties no electrolytic
entirely different material. corrosion, good
soundproofing
Substantial advantages result from
simplified handling methods, while Poor thermal minimum heat loss
prefabrication and shorter assembly conductivity through uninsulated
times reduce the cost of installation piping
and maintenance. Technical require-
ments can in many cases be better Chemical resistance good resistance
against most normal
fulfilled, with a corresponding increase
corrosive actions of
in the efficiency of the installation. acids and alkalis

The correct choice of material, based Simple joining reduced installation

on the physical properties, is therefore procedure costs
of the utmost importance.
Quality control and operational safety
standardization dimensional accuracy,
Summary: interchangeable
A successful installation necessitates components
careful planning and execution, which
takes into account the characteristics of
the material.

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01_ALL 18 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Material & System Selection
Abbreviations Used for Plastics

*ABS = Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene
CA = Cellulose acetate
*PC
*PCTFE
= Polycarbonate
= Polychlorotrifluoroethylene
1
CAB = Cellulose acetate butyrate PDAP = Polydiallyl phthalate
CAP = Cellulose acetate propionate PEC = Chlorinated polyethylene
CF = Cresol - formaldehyde PETP = Polyethylene terephthalate
CMC = Carboxymethyl cellulose *PF = Phenol-formaldehyde
CN = Cellulose nitrate PIB = Polyisobutylene
*CPVC = Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride PMMA = Polymethyl methacrylate
*CR = Chloroprene rubber *POM = Polyoxymethylene (Kematal *)
(Neoprene) *PP = Polypropylene
CS = Casein PS = Polystryne
*CSM = Chlorine sulphonyl polyethylene *PTFE = Polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon)
(Hypalon) PUR = Polyurethane
EC = Ethyl cellulose PVAC = Polyvinyl acetate
ECTFE = Ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene PVAL = Polyvinyl alcohol
(Halar **) PVB = Polyvinyl butyral
*EP = Epoxide, epoxy *PVC = Polyvinyl chloride
*EPDM = Ethylene propylene rubber PVCA = Polyvinyl chloride acetate
FEP = Perfluorethylenepropylene PVDF = Polyvinylidene fluoride
*FPM = Fluorine rubber (Viton) PVF = Polyvinyl fluoride
*HDPE = High-density polyethylene PVFM = Polyvinyl formal
HP = Laminated paper PVK = Polyvinyl carbazol
*IIR = Isobutene isoprene (butyl) rubber SAN = Styrene-acrylonitrile
MF = Melamine formaldehyde SB = Styrene-butadiene
*NBR = Nitrile (butadiene) rubber SI = Silicone
*NR = Natural rubber UF = Urea-formaldehyde
PFA = Perfluoroalkoxy resin UP = Unsaturated polyester
*PA = Polyamide
*PB = Polybutylene

* used in pipeline construction Du Ponts registered trade name * I.C.I.s registered trade name
** Ausimonts registered trade name

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01_ALL 19 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Physical Data and Aids to Identification
The values below are generic values and not to be used for calculation purposes. Please contact the material
product managers at the factory for current detailed values.

Properties PVC CPVC PP-B HDPE PVDF

Delivery of the pipes in straight in straight in straight in straight in straight
lengths lengths lengths lengths or lengths
coiled
Surface feel smooth smooth smooth waxy smooth
Appearance (water pipes) dark grey light grey grey-beige black translucent
natural
Sound produced when dropped high high medium medium high
clatter clatter clatter clatter clatter
Combustibility and appearance of carbonizes carbonizes bright flame; bright flame; carbonizes
the flame in flame; in flame; drops drops in flame;
extinguishes extinguishes continue to continue to extinguishes
away from away from burn while burn while away from
flame flame falling falling flame
Odor of smoke after flame is pungent pungent like resin like candles pungent
extinguished (like hydro- (like hydro-
chloric acid) chloric acid)
Nail test impression impression very slight impression impression
(Impression made with fingernail) not possible not possible impression possible not possible
possible

Floats in water no no yes yes no

Notch sensitivity yes yes slight no slight
Weather resistance stabilized stabilized poor; not UV stabilized unstabilized
good good resistant good excellent
Method of permanent joining solvent solvent fusion fusion fusion
cement cement
Suitable for mechanical joining yes yes yes yes yes
Stress crack sensitivity with regard none none slight some none
to joining for safe media, e.g. water
Linear expansion in/inF (10 -5) 4.44 3.89 8.33 11.1 6.72

Thermal conductivity BTU/FtHRF 0.094 0.094 0.128 0.269 0.109

Specific heat BTU/lbF 0.23 0.23 0.4 0.42 0.23
Specific gravity 1.38 1.5 0.905 0.93 1.78

Tensile strength at 20C (psi) 7500 8700 4500 3200 8000

Modulus of elasticity at 20C (psi) 435,000 406,000 181,000 130,000 305,000
(in tension)

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01_ALL 20 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Material & System Selection
Properties of Plastics in Relation to Temperature

hard zone range of partly rigid hot forming 1

application crystalline zone
possibilities for zone
pressure pipes

pliability temperature of temperature of decomposition

zone heating element heating tools zone
for butt fusion for socket fusion
joining joining

PVC

CPVC

HDPE

PP

SYGEF

Note: range of application possibilities depends upon temperature, pressure, time and material stability

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01_ALL 21 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Comparison of the Strength Characteristics of Metal and Plastics from 20 to 110C

Minimum breaking strain for one years service life

Circumferential stress (hoop stress) in kp / cm2

Temperature in C
Kp / cm2 = 14.22 psi
(Kp = kilogram of force)

1.22

01_ALL 22 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Material & System Selection
Comparison of Contraction and Expansion after Cooling and Heating a Pipe
1 meter long
1
Pipe length in cm

Temperature in C

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01_ALL 23 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Development of Stress and Force when the Expansion and Contraction of Plastics
Pipes are Restricted
Force appearing in kp/pipe
Temperature in C

Stress in kp/cm2

1.24

01_ALL 24 6/7/02, 10:24 AM


Service Life
Compared with metals, the performance
capabilities of most plastics are
contained in a narrow thermal range.
Generally, the normal range of
application possibilities lies closely
Material & System Selection
within the limits of permissible
mechanical and thermal load. 1
The service life is thus dependent to a
greater extent upon mechanical and
thermal influences.

The physical range of

application is determined
by time (service life), stress Normal mechanical and thermal load
(pressure) and temperature.

Increased mechanical and decreased

thermal load

Decreased mechanical and

increased thermal load

Increased mechanical and normal

thermal load

Increased mechanical and thermal

load

Excessive stress

Quality Assurance Taking into account that after a service

It is strongly recommended that only
those pipe fittings are used which meet
the quality specifications of the
appropriate trade association and/or
standards institution.
life of 50 years at a working temperature
of 20C there should still be a sufficient
safety margin to withstand the intended
internal pressure, the permissible loads
at 20C were established as follows:

SYGEF permissible = 163 kp/cm2

-Conversion of the new units of
measurement
1 bar P1 .02 kp/cm2
1 kp/cm2 = 1 kgf/cm2 = 14.22 psi
1 bar = 105N/m2 = 105Pa = 14.50 psi
Long-term Strength and PVC permissible = 100 kp/cm2 circumferential
CPVC permissible = 100 kp/cm2 stress
Permissible Loads PP permissible = 50 kp/cm2 or
The charts on pages 1 .26 1 .30 show HDPE permissible = 50 kp/cm2 hoop stress
the long-term value of various plastics
pipes. The three fundamental values, These details apply to safe media, e.g.,
time, temperature, and stress, can be water.
seen, and the curves show the minimum
service time, i.e., the failure point of the
weakest pipes or fittings from the chosen
test series.

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01_ALL 25 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Long-term Behavior of SYGEF (Maximum Internal Pressure)

These curves are subject to change due to new standards not yet released. Please contact the factory
(800) 854-4090 for up-to-date information.

1.26

01_ALL 26 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Material & System Selection
Long-term Behavior of PVC

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01_ALL 27 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Long-term Behavior of CPVC

1.28

01_ALL 28 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Material & System Selection
Long-term Behavior of Polypropylene (PP) - Copolymer

(See the Beta Polypropylene Section or contact the factory for specifications on pigmented Beta PP-H
homopolymer) 1

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01_ALL 29 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Long-term Behavior of HDPE

1.30

01_ALL 30 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Material & System Selection
Permissible Working Pressures for George Fischer
Plastic Pipe Fittings
When establishing the permissible The quality specification of the standard 1
working pressures for George Fischer for PVC pipeline components includes a
fittings, safety under operational 2.5 times safety margin, based on 50
conditions is of primary importance. years' service at 20C.

Experience has shown that, according For these reasons, George Fischer
to the type of installation, the safety subjects PVC fittings rated for NP 10
factors are quite closely calculated. pressures to more stringent testing.

Apart from working conditions and
careful installation, operational safety
depends upon the wall thickness of the
pipe used and the quality of the
product.
The diagram below shows the safety
ratings in relation to the permissible
working pressure NP 10 and NP 16.

Minimum service time under pressure at 20C l hour 1000 hours 50 years

Test pressure in atmospheres forfittings 67.2 51 .2 43

Safety factor for working pressure NP 10 6. 7 5.1 2 4.3

Safety factor for working pressure NP 16 4.2 3.2 2.7

Working Conditions for PVC Fittings

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01_ALL 31 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Application Range
When planning plastic piping installa-
tions, the physical working conditions
should be ascertained as accurately
as possible, e.g.:
"Mechanical load, temperature, and
period of application, i.e., length of
service"
Excessive stress caused by restricted
expansion and contraction, fluctuations
in pressure (high-speed actuated valves
and pumps) and temperature excesses
must be avoided.
The tensions and forces in the
pipework caused by thermal expansion
can be seen from the diagrams on the
previous pages.
Where necessary, George Fischer
recommends protecting plastic pipe-
lines against exceeding established
working conditions.
Where an installation for the convey-
ance of aggressive media is proposed,
the chemical resistance of the plastic
material from which the pipe and
fittings are made, including any seals,
to the substance to be conveyed must
first be checked against the informa-
tion given in the George Fischer
Chemical Resistance Table.
"Dangerous and non-dangerous" as
defined in DIN 2403 (March 1965).
In the case of PVC, compressed gases
(including compressed air) are also to
be regarded as dangerous substances.
Dangerous substances are those which
endanger life and health, or service
operations, because they are highly
inflammable, poisonous, develop
poisonous vapors, or for other reasons
(e.g. because of high temperature or
high pressure).
It is impossible to draw an exact line
between dangerous and safe sub-
stances, as the same substance can
be dangerous or safe under different
circumstances.
See diagram fig. 10 on page 1.36 for
range of application of groups I and
II.
Where the material is resistant and
the medium is known to be safe,
pipelines with George Fischer fittings
and valves can, almost without excep-
tion, be projected with the aid of the
diagrams shown on the following
pages.

If there are any doubts as a result of

this examination, it is advisable to
consult the pipe manufacturers or the
George Fischer Service Department to
confirm whether or not the materials
are suitable for the application pro-
posed.

The installation of an experimental test

piece can also be an advantage
where uncertainty exists.

The "dangerous media" group is sub-

divided into the following categories:

1)Dangerous media to which the

material is resistant.

2)Substances to which the material is

conditionally resistant.

1.32

01_ALL 32 6/7/02, 10:24 AM

 Material & System Selection
Application Range of George Fischer Plastic Fittings for:

Atmosphere = 14.7 psi Valid for safe media, e.g.water

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 Application Range of George Fischer of NP 6 and NP 10 Fittings in PVC, HDPE, and
PP, as well as of NP 16 in SYGEF

Normal range of application

Extended range of application (prior consultation with George Fischer strongly

recommended)

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 Material & System Selection
Thermal Application Range of Sealing Materials

Refers to safe media, e.g. water/under static load 1

long-term service short-term peak

NR Natural rubber CR Chloroprene rubber FPM Flourine rubber

(e.g. Neoprene) (e.g. Viton)

NBR Nitrile (butadiene) rubber CSM Chlorine sulphynol polyethylene

(e.g. Hypalon)

EPDM Ethylene propylene IIR Isobutene isoprene (butyl) PTFE Polytetraflouroethylene

rubber rubber (e.g. Teflon)

Du Ponts registered trade name

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 Application Range of Various Plastics with Dangerous and Aggressive Media

Application Range of Plastic Pipe

Transported Recommended Conditionally

Medium Material Suitable

Solvents PVDF PP, PE

Acids PVDF, PVC PP, PE
Laid above ground

High Purity Acids PVDF

Alkalis PVC, PP, PE
Hot Medium PVDF, PP
Swimming Pool Water PVC PE
Rain Water PVC
Waste Water PP, PE
High Purity Water PVDF PP, PVC
Potable Water PVC, PE
Buried in ground

Potable Water PVC, PE

Waste Water PVC, PE
Gas PVC, PE
Drainage PVC
Cable Protection PVC, PE

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The Installation of Plastic Pipelines in Premises where there is
Danger of Explosion and for the Transport of Ignitable Media
Introduction
The electrically non-conductive
properties of most plastics have led to
their widespread use in electrical
engineering and electronics. This
material characteristic can, however, be
a disadvantage in other fields of
application. In plastic pipeline
construction, the question of
electrostatic charging of the pipeline
becomes important if electrically non-
conductive media are to be transported,
or if the pipeline is to be installed in
premises where there is danger of
explosion. In both cases the electrostatic
charging of the material can be
troublesome or even dangerous. PVC,
PE, PP and PVDF belong to the group of
electrically non-conductive materials. All
materials with a specific resistance
greater than 106 h cm are
electrically non-conductive. The values
for the abovementioned materials lie
around 1015 h cm. When the
surface resistance of a solid material
exceeds 109 h cm, the material can
be electrostatically charged. This must
be taken into account for certain
applications.
In the mining industry, for example, for
safety reasons plastics may as a
general rule only be used when their
specific resistance does not exceed 108
h cm (measured at 20C and with
35% relative atmospheric humidity). This
applies especially in zones where there
is danger of firedamp.
Similar restrictions must also be applied
to the installation of plastic pipelines in
other areas where ignitable mixtures
can occur. There is no danger incurred
during the transport of ignitable gases
or fluids in plastic pipes as long as the
system is closed. Reduced rates of flow
also serve to reduce the electrostatic
charging.
There is, in principle, the possibility of
taking special measures to make
electrically non-conductive materials
conductive, e.g., by adding carbon.
Such additives do, however, generally
have a negative influence on other
indispensable material properties.
Special manufacture is also as a rule
unprofitable due to insufficient demand.
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Material & System Selection
If plastic pipelines are to be installed in
1
premises where ignitable gas/air
mixtures can occur, or if electrically non-
conductive media are to be transported
in plastic pipes, the following.points
should be observed at the planning
stage:
The Installation of Pipelines in
Premises where Ignitable Gas/Air
Mixture can occur
Avoid ignitable mixtures by means of,
for example, good ventilation or air
extraction.
Avoid charging by ionizing the
atmosphere.
Lead off charges by, for example,
rendering the pipe surfaces conductive
with the aid of solvent-free conductive
coating containing metallic powder, or
by lagging the piping with a
conductive foil. It is then essential to
earth the pipe.
Prevention of charging by increasing
the relative atmospheric humidity.
Conductivity is improved due to a
conductive film of water on the
pipeline. Electrostatic charges can
hardly occur at a relative atmospheric
humidity above 65%. Taking the
hydrophobic properties of PVC, PE, PP
and PVDF into account, the formation
of an intact film of moisture can be
facilitated if the pipeline surface is
treated with a hygroscopic soap.
It is not recommended to make the
pipeline conductive solely by treating
it with an antistatic and hygroscopic
solution. This is usually effective for a
limited period of time only, and
accidental damage to the protective
film cannot be ruled out.
The Transport of Electrically Non-
conductive Media
Plastic pipes are as a rule not
recommended for the transport of
electrically non-conductive dry
substances, due to the effects of the
electrostatic charge and the extensive
wear and tear on the material. A
preliminary test is recommended if
necessary.
Electrically non-conductive combustible
gases or fluids may only be
transported in closed pipeline systems.
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6/7/02, 10:24 AM
 Plastic Pipelines for the Transport of Disinfectants
General
Plastic pipes and fittings have for some
years been given preference for the
transport of disinfectant solutions in
hospitals. Certain characteristics, which
are indicated in the following
paragraphs, have to be taken into
account during planning, depending
upon the pipeline material, the pipe
joints chosen, the type of disinfectant
and the working conditions.
In costly large-scale tests we have
examined the behaviour of commercially
available disinfectant solutions in
conjunction with pipes and fittings in
PVC, HDPE and PP. In the case of PVC
our examination has been
supplemented by tests carried out by
Messrs Henkel, Duesseldorf.
As a basis we were able to use the
results of earlier preliminary tests, during
which the following criteria were
ascertained:
a) Disinfectant solutions have a great
capillary force. The pipe joints must,
therefore, be very carefully carried
out.
b) Occasional changing of the make or
type of disinfectant is to be expected
during the operation of such pipeline
systems. This is to prevent germs
becoming immune to a particular type
of disinfectant.
c) The various disinfectants have
differing compositions and they
behave differently towards plastics.
The purpose of the examination was to
compile an aid to planning for practical
application, taking into account the
above-mentioned criteria. When testing
the resistance of the pipe material in
question, the test specimens were filled
with disinfectant instead of water, and
the long-term internal pressure tests, as
stipulated in the Standards, were
carried out with this medium. The pipe
joints, which differ according to the
material, were tested at the same time.
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The Chemical Resistance of PVC,
HDPE and PP against Disinfectants
Disinfectants are mostly aqueous or
alcoholic solutions which contain special
substances against microbes and
generally detergents as well. The latter
increase the microbial effect due to their
capillary force. Depending upon the
application, chlorine separating
substances are used. Although the pH
value may vary within certain limits, from
slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, this has
practically no influence on the resistance
of the plastics.
Pipes and fittings in PVC, HDPE and PP
and the appropriate joints were tested.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC))
The disinfectant solutions tested have
influenced the material differently. The
normal long-term test results for PVC,
obtained with water, were only achieved
in part. Some of the disinfectant solutions
tested led to premature failure of the test
specimens due to stress corrosion.
Without exception, the solvent cement
joints tested at the same time were
leakproof up to the failure of the test
specimens.
The required test duration could only be
achieved by reducing the test pressure.
In this case the load corresponded to
that given in the relevant Standards for
dangerous media, to which PVC is
resistant.
It can be seen from these results that
stress corrosion cracking can be
expected at a relatively high
comparative stress, or after a fairly long
load duration at a reduced comparative
stress. The effective load placed on the
pipeline components in practice results
from the internal pressure and, possibly,
from transmitted stress occurring from the
installation conditions.
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High-density Polyethylene (HDPE)
The nominal long-term test duration for
pipes was achieved or exceeded with
all the disinfectant solutions examined.
The heated-tool socket fusion joints
remained leakproof until the testing was
discontinued, after the nominal duration
had been clearly exceeded.
Polypropylene (PP)
PP has proved to be "not resistant"
against all the disinfectant solutions
tested, i.e., the test specimens failed
before the minimum test duration had
elapsed.
Evaluation of the Test Results for
Planning Disinfectant Pipelines
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
We recommend that as a matter of
principle only pipes and pipeline
components dimensioned for pressure
rating PN10 (ISO 4065, pipe series 10)
are used. Furthermore, PVC pipelines
should not be subjected to a working
pressure above 6 bar at 20C, or, where
the average pipe wall temperature is
higher, to a correspondingly reduced
working pressure.
The instructions for solvent cement
joining must be observed with the
greatest care in view of the high
capillary force of the disinfectant
solutions.
High-density Polyethylene (HDPE)
On the basis of the long-term internal
pressure tests, HDPE pipelines can be
dimensioned as they are where water is
the medium. This means that:
In the case of pipes and fittings of
pressure rating PN10 (pipe series 5
according to ISO 4065) a max.
working pressure of 10 bar may not be
exceeded at a pipe wall temperature
of 20C.
Socket fusion joining, using heated tools,
is a particularly suitable joining method
for such pipelines.
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Material & System Selection
Polypropylene (PP))
At the present stage of technology it is
not recommended to use polypropylene
for the construction of disinfectant
pipelines for reasons of chemical
1
resistance, as premature failure can be
expected.
SYGEF
According to the composition of pipes
and pipeline components in the SYGEF
system, the material is suitable for the
transport of disinfectant solutions, and
can be subjected to loads applicable
for media to which PVDF is resistant.
Recommendations for practical
application
It goes without saying that the
information given applies only to the
disinfectant solutions tested. A list of the
tested media would, therefore, be
incomplete. Apart from this, we have no
control over the composition ol the
disinfectants. Alterations to their
composition could, however, alter their
behaviour as regards the materials
tested here. Our examination thus
applies only to the composition of the
disinfectant solutions at the time of
testing.
We would recommend obtaining written
confirmation from the manufacturer of
the disinfectant solution that it is
compatible with the intended pipeline
material.
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6/7/02, 10:24 AM
 Comparison of Joining Methods
Threaded versus Solvent Cemented Schedule 80 PVC Pipe
Threaded Joint
Advantage
can be disassembled
Disadvantages
Heavy wall thickness required
expensive installation
thread cutting required
connection for type of material not
optimal
PVC is notch sensitive
sensitive to torsional and longitudinal
loads
leak tightness and chemical resistance
are not optimal
sensitive to high working pressure and
pressure fluctuations
allowing for expansion and
contraction is difficult
Threaded PVDF Pipe versus Interference Heat Fusion (SYGEF)
Threaded Joint
Advantages
can be disassembled
Disadvantages
heavy wall thickness required
expensive installation
thread cutting required
limited usage
sensitive to torsional and longitudinal
loads
leak tightness and chemical resistance
are not optimal
sensitive to high working pressure and
pressure fluctuations
consideration of expansion and
contraction is difficult
potential cold flow stress cracking
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Solvent Cemented Joint
Advantages
pipe used is less expensive
internationally standardized and in
common usage
optimal connection for type of material
pull-out resistant connection
large selection pf fittings and valves
available
can be used within the entire spectrum
of application for PVC material
pressure resistant up to burst pressure
good chemical resistance
no thread cutting
Disadvantages
joining instructions must be followeed
carefully
connection cannot be disassembled
and leaky joints are difficult to repair
Interference Heat Fusion Joint
Advantages
less pipe wall thickness required
optimal connection for PVDF material
pull-out resistant connection
pressure resistant beyond burst
pressure of pipe
excellent chemical resistance
large surface contact between pipe
and fitting
Disadvantages
joining instructions must be followeed
carefully
connection cannot be disassembled
and leaky joints are difficult to repair
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