ASTM C1461-21

Standard Specification for Mechanical Couplings Using Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gaskets for Joining Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary, and Storm Plumbing Systems for Above and Below Ground Use

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the performance of shielded transition couplings using flexible PVC gaskets to join dissimilar DWV pipe and fittings above and below ground. The gaskets shall be permitted to be spliced or molded. The elastomeric gasket shall be free from imperfections and porosity that affects its use and serviceability. Clamps assembly screws or bolts shall not have screw-driver slots. Each coupling shall undergo deflection test, shear test, and unrestrained hydrostatic joint test.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification describes the properties of devices or assemblies suitable for use as mechanical couplings using thermoplastic elastomeric (TPE) gaskets, hereinafter referred to as couplings, for joining drain, waste, and vent (DWV), sewer, sanitary, and storm plumbing systems for above and below ground use.  
1.2 The pipe to be joined shall be of similar or dissimilar materials or size, or both.  
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.4 The ASTM standards referenced herein shall be considered mandatory.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Aug-2021
• ICS: 21.140 - Seals, glands
• Technical Committee: A04 - Iron Castings
• Drafting Committee: A04.75 - Gaskets and Coupling for Plumbing and Sewer Piping

Relations

• Refers: ASTM A644-17 - Standard Terminology Relating to Iron Castings
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2017
• Refers: ASTM A644-14 - Standard Terminology Relating to Iron Castings
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2014
• Refers: ASTM C1440-08(2013)e1 - Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary and Storm Plumbing Systems
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM A644-13 - Standard Terminology Relating to Iron Castings
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM C1440-08(2013) - Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary and Storm Plumbing Systems
• Effective Date: 01-May-2013
• Refers: ASTM A644-09a - Standard Terminology Relating to Iron Castings
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2009
• Refers: ASTM A644-09 - Standard Terminology Relating to Iron Castings
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2009
• Refers: ASTM C1440-08 - Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary and Storm Plumbing Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2008
• Refers: ASTM C1440-07 - Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary and Storm Plumbing Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2007
• Refers: ASTM A644-05 - Standard Terminology Relating to Iron Castings
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2005
• Refers: ASTM C1440-03 - Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary and Storm Plumbing Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2003
• Refers: ASTM C1440-99e1 - Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary and Storm Plumbing Systems
• Effective Date: 26-May-2000
• Refers: ASTM A644-98(2003) - Standard Terminology Relating to Iron Castings
• Effective Date: 10-Dec-1998

Overview

ASTM C1461-21: Standard Specification for Mechanical Couplings Using Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gaskets for Joining Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary, and Storm Plumbing Systems for Above and Below Ground Use establishes the requirements for mechanical couplings utilizing flexible TPE gaskets. These couplings are designed to connect similar or dissimilar pipes and fittings in drain, waste, vent, sewer, sanitary, and storm plumbing systems, accommodating both above and below ground applications. The standard ensures reliable sealing, robust mechanical performance, and compatibility with various piping materials, making it a critical reference for manufacturers, engineers, and installers working with DWV and sewer systems.

Key Topics

• Scope of Application: Covers shielded and unshielded mechanical couplings for joining a wide range of pipe materials and sizes. Applicable for both above ground and buried piping systems.
• Gasket Requirements: Specifies use of thermoplastic elastomeric gaskets, which must be free from imperfections, porosity, and meet the requirements of ASTM C1440.
• Component Materials: Stainless steel, specifically 300 series, is required for tension bands and must comply with referenced ASTM standards.
• Performance Testing: Couplings must undergo critical tests such as deflection sealing resistance, shear loading resistance, and the unrestrained hydrostatic joint test to verify durability and leak resistance.
• Design Features: Mandates inclusion of elements such as center stops (where applicable), shear rings in shielded couplings, and supports for unshielded systems.
• Marking & Identification: Each coupling must be permanently marked with manufacturer identification, country of origin, pipe size, type, and ASTM designation for traceability.
• Installation Limitations: Provides guidance on temperature limits, fire-resistive construction, and the need for adequate pipe supports.

Applications

ASTM C1461-21 is essential for a variety of plumbing and civil engineering projects, including:

• New Construction and Renovations: Ensures compatibility and reliable connections when joining pipes of the same or different materials in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: Facilitates repairs and replacement of existing piping systems, enabling efficient connection of pipes with different diameters or materials without extensive modification.
• Stormwater and Sanitary Systems: Used in the installation or repair of municipal sewer and stormwater drainage networks, both above and below ground.
• Transition Couplings: Supports the use of shielded transition couplings with TPE gaskets to connect dissimilar materials such as cast iron to PVC in DWV and sewer pipelines.
• Underground Installations: Provides specifications ensuring couplings withstand soil loads, hydrostatic pressure, and environmental exposure.
• Code Compliance: Helps designers and contractors meet local and international plumbing codes that reference ASTM C1461 for gasketed pipe joint performance.

Related Standards

For best practices and comprehensive compliance, reference these related documents:

• ASTM C1440: Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for DWV, Sewer, Sanitary, and Storm Plumbing Systems.
• ASTM A644: Terminology Relating to Iron Castings, which supports consistent use of terms in plumbing and pipe joining.
• Local and International Plumbing Codes: Many refer to ASTM C1461 as a basis for mechanical couplings in sanitary systems.
• Other ASTM Pipe and Fitting Specifications: Ensure material compatibility and performance.

ASTM C1461-21 supports high standards of performance, durability, and flexibility in plumbing and sewer systems, making it a vital standard for ensuring the long-term reliability and safety of critical infrastructure.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:C1461 −21
Standard Specification for
Mechanical Couplings Using Thermoplastic Elastomeric
(TPE) Gaskets for Joining Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV),
Sewer, Sanitary, and Storm Plumbing Systems for Above
and Below Ground Use
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1461; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 3. Terminology
1.1 This specification describes the properties of devices or 3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this
specification, see Terminology A644.
assemblies suitable for use as mechanical couplings using
thermoplastic elastomeric (TPE) gaskets, hereinafter referred
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
to as couplings, for joining drain, waste, and vent (DWV),
3.2.1 center stop—an integral part of the gasket centered on
sewer, sanitary, and storm plumbing systems for above and
its axial length intended to limit the insertion depth of the pipe
below ground use.
to be coupled.
1.2 The pipe to be joined shall be of similar or dissimilar
3.2.2 fitting—parts of a pipeline other than straight pipe,
materials or size, or both.
couplings, or valves.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded 3.2.3 free torque—the torque value expressed in lbf-in.
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical (N-m) when the clamp is tightened four revolutions of the
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only screw nut. While in the free state, this value does not include
and are not considered standard. any breakaway effects due to staking method or passage of the
band ends beyond the screw heads.
1.4 TheASTM standards referenced herein shall be consid-
3.2.4 inserts—a bushing or ring placed into the coupling
ered mandatory.
socket to accommodate pipe materials of differing outside
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
diameters.
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
3.2.5 joint—the completed assembly of parts consisting of
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
the flexible transition coupling and the joined pipes or fittings,
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
or both.
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.2.6 lot—a specific quantity of similar material or collec-
tion of similar units from a common source; the quantity
2. Referenced Documents
offered for inspection and acceptance at any one time. A lot
might comprise a shipment, batch, or similar quantity.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A644Terminology Relating to Iron Castings 3.2.7 mechanical couplings—devices used to join between
C1440Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) sections of plain-end pipe or fittings of the same or different
Gasket Materials for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), materials, of the same or different size, or any combination of
Sewer, Sanitary, and Storm Plumbing Systems materials and pipe sizes.
3.2.8 plain-end pipe—any pipe that does not include any
bell, hub, threaded area, or other means of joining.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A04 on Iron
3.2.9 shear ring—an interior or exterior element which is
Castings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee A04.75 on Gaskets and
used to span the distance between the pipe ends within a
Coupling for Plumbing and Sewer Piping.
couplingsoastoprovideincreasedresistancetoaxialdisplace-
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2021. Published September 2021. Originally
approved in 2000. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as C1461–08 (2017).
ment.
DOI: 10.1520/C1461-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
4. Classification
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
4.1 The couplings shall have a center stop unless telescop-
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. ing of the pipe is necessary for special applications. The
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1461−21
components shall be designed so that the elastomeric material 8.2 Notlessthantwocouplingsforeachsizeortypeshallbe
is compressed to form a hydrostatic seal when the joint is tested, unless otherwise specified or waived by the purchaser.
assembled. The couplings shall be of the types described in
8.3 Wherethereisafailureintheoriginaltest,theentiretest
4.1.1 – 4.1.3.
shallbererunwithtwicethenumberofsamplesandanyfailure
4.1.1 Unshielded—A coupling consisting of an elastomeric
shall be cause for rejection.
sleeve incorporating corrosion-resistant tension bands and a
tightening mechanism. Couplings shall be fabricated without
9. Test Methods
shear rings. Couplings installed without metallic shear rings
9.1 Elastomeric Materials—Physical properties of gaskets
shall not be installed in fire-resistive construction.
shall be in accordance with Specification C1440. Many ther-
4.1.2 Shielded—A coupling consisting of an elastomeric or
moplastic elastomeric gaskets are temperature-sensitive. Refer
rubber sleeve incorporating a metallic, corrosion-resistant
to Specification C1440 for the allowable temperature range of
shearringandtensionbandsortighteningmechanism,orboth.
materials.
4.1.3 Other—Acoupling (gasket) fabricated for elastomeric
9.2 Tension Band Performance:
compression seals.
9.2.1 Torque Resistance—Stainless steel tension bands shall
5. Materials and Manufacture
be tested to withstand 150% of the manufacturer’s specified
installation torque without visible signs of failure. The band
5.1 Elastomeric materials used in the manufacturing of
shall be tested over a steel mandrel of the appropriate coupling
couplings and inserts shall comply with the requirements in
diameter and torqued as required.
accordance with Specification C1440.
9.2.2 The maximum free-running torque shall be 4 lbf-in.
5.2 The stainless steel tension band assembly shall be 300
(0.45 N-m).
series stainless steel, excluding copper bearing alloys, meeting
9.2.2.1 Stainless steel tension bands with torque resistance
the requirements of the appropriate ASTM standard for stain-
in excess of 100 lbf-in. shall have a maximum free-running
less steel.
torque of 8 lbf-in.
5.3 Couplings with bushings or inserts, or both, of multi- 9.2.3 Test Procedure for Free-Running Torque:
piece construction or with splices shall show no separation,
9.2.3.1 Withthenonstressedclamphandheldandtheslotted
peeling, or other defects when tested in accordance with band fully engaged, the screw
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C1461 − 08 (Reapproved 2017) C1461 − 21
Standard Specification for
Mechanical Couplings Using Thermoplastic Elastomeric
(TPE) Gaskets for Joining Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV),
Sewer, Sanitary, and Storm Plumbing Systems for Above
and Below Ground Use
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1461; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This specification describes the properties of devices or assemblies suitable for use as mechanical couplings using
thermoplastic elastomeric (TPE) gaskets, hereinafter referred to as couplings, for joining drain, waste, and vent (DWV)(DWV),
sewer, sanitary, and storm plumbing systems for above and below ground use.
1.2 The pipe to be joined shall be of similar or dissimilar materials or size, or both.
1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.
1.4 The ASTM standards referenced herein shall be considered mandatory.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A644 Terminology Relating to Iron Castings
C1440 Specification for Thermoplastic Elastomeric (TPE) Gasket Materials for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV), Sewer, Sanitary,
and Storm Plumbing Systems
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—For definitions of terms used in this specification, see Terminology A644.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee A04 on Iron Castings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee A04.75 on Gaskets and Coupling
for Plumbing and Sewer Piping.
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2017Sept. 1, 2021. Published October 2017September 2021. Originally approved in 2000. Last previous edition approved in 20132017
as C1461 – 08 (2013).(2017). DOI: 10.1520/C1461-08R17.10.1520/C1461-21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1461 − 21
3.2.1 center stop—an integral part of the gasket centered on its axial length intended to limit the insertion depth of the pipe to be
coupled.
3.2.2 fitting—parts of a pipeline other than straight pipe, couplings, or valves.
3.2.3 free torque—the torque value expressed in lbf-in. (N-m) when the clamp is tightened four revolutions of the screw nut. While
in the free state, this value does not include any breakaway effects due to staking method or passage of the band ends beyond the
screw heads.
3.2.4 inserts—a bushing or ring placed into the coupling socket to accommodate pipe materials of differing outside diameters.
3.2.5 joint—the completed assembly of parts consisting of the flexible transition coupling and the joined pipes or fittings, or both.
3.2.6 lot—a specific quantity of similar material or collection of similar units from a common source; the quantity offered for
inspection and acceptance at any one time. A lot might comprise a shipment, batch, or similar quantity.
3.2.7 mechanical couplings—devices used to join between sections of plain-end pipe or fittings of the same or different materials,
of the same or different size, or any combination of materials and pipe sizes.
3.2.8 plain-end pipe—any pipe that does not include any bell, hub, threaded area, or other means of joining.
3.2.9 shear ring—an interior or exterior element which is used to span the distance between the pipe ends within a coupling so
as to provide increased resistance to axial displacement.
4. Classification
4.1 The couplings shall have a center stop unless telescoping of the pipe is necessary for special applications. The components
shall be designed so that the elastomeric material is compressed to form a hydrostatic seal when the joint is assembled. The
couplings shall be of the types described in 4.1.1 – 4.1.3.
4.1.1 Unshielded—A coupling consisting of an elastomeric sleeve incorporating corrosion-resistant tension bands and a tightening
mechanism. Couplings shall be fabricated without shear rings. Couplings installed without metallic shear rings shall not be
installed in fire-resistive construction.
4.1.2 Shielded—A coupling consisting of an elastomeric or rubber sleeve incorporating a metallic, corrosion-resistant shear ring
and tension bands or tightening mechanism, or both.
4.1.3 Other—A coupling (gasket) fabricated for elastomeric compression seals.
5. Materials and Manufacture
5.1 Elastomeric materials used in the manufacturing of couplings and inserts shall comply with the requirements in accordance
with Specification C1440.
5.2 The stainless steel tension band assembly shall be 300 series stainless steel, excluding copper bearing alloys, meeting the
requirements of the appropriate ASTM standard for stainless steel.
5.3 Couplings with bushings or inserts, or both, of multi-piece construction or with splices shall show no separation, peeling, or
other defects when tested in accordance with Section 9.
5.4 The coupling shall be free from porosity and air pockets. Its surface shall be smooth and free from pitting, cracks, blisters,
air marks, or any other imperfections that affect its performance in service. The flash extension shall not exceed ⁄32 in. (0.8 mm)
at any point where the presence of flash affects performance.
C1461 − 21
6. Requirements
6.1 In horizontal installations, unshielded couplings shall be supported on both sides of the coupling with suitable hangers or
support necessary to support the pipe and fittings joined. The support must be located within 18 in. of the center of the coupling.
6.2 Couplings shall not be installed in locations where the expected internal or external temperatures are below 0 °F (–18 °C) or
exceed 130 °F (54 °C).
6.3 Unshielded couplings shall not be installed in construction that has a fire rating that restricts the use of flammable materials
through penetrations or plenums without additional fire-resistive protection.
7. Dimensions, Mass, and Permissible Variations
7.1 Coupling and bushing dimensions shall be compatible with the dimensions and tolerances of the specific piping material which
it is designed to join.
8. Sampling, Tests, and Re
...