ASTM F2946-12(2021)

Standard Specification for PVC Hub and Elastomeric Seal (Gasket) Tee Connection for Joining Plastic Pipe to Insitu Pipelines and Manholes

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the minimum performance and material requirements for a three piece tee connector for connection between plastic pipe and insitu pipes, manholes and wastewater structures in sanitary and storm sewer applications. The three piece seal system consists of a 4 through 30-in. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) hub pipe, an elastomeric seal (gasket) and a mechanical band. The system is installed in either a bored or cast hole opening in the host pipe or structure to a specific dimension that corresponds to the combined diameter of the PVC pipe outside diameter/tolerance and the elastomeric seal thickness. These tee connectors are designed to provide a non-pressure (gravity flow) watertight connection between the incoming pipe and an insitu pipe or manhole/structure to the limits defined in this standard. This specification deals with materials and manufacture, principles of design, basis of acceptance, test methods and requirements, rejection and rehearing, certification, markings, quality assurance, and packaging and package marking.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the minimum performance and material requirements for a three piece tee connector for connection between plastic pipe and insitu pipes, manholes and wastewater structures in sanitary and storm sewer applications.  
1.1.1 The three piece seal system consists of a 4 through 30-in. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) hub pipe, an elastomeric seal (gasket) and a mechanical band (Fig. 1). The system is installed in either a bored or cast hole opening in the host pipe or structure to a specific dimension that corresponds to the combined diameter of the PVC pipe outside diameter/tolerance and the elastomeric seal thickness.
FIG. 1 Three-Piece Sealing System (Connector)  
1.2 These tee connectors are designed to provide a non-pressure (gravity flow) watertight connection between the incoming pipe and an insitu pipe or manhole/structure to the limits defined in this standard.
Note 1: Connections covered by this specification are adequate for laboratory hydrostatic pressures up to 13 psi (30 ft of head) without leakage when tested in accordance with the provisions of this standard. Infiltration or exfiltration quantities for an installed system are dependent upon many factors other than the connections between incoming pipe and the insitu pipe or manhole structure, and allowable quantities may need to be covered by other specifications and suitable testing of the installed pipeline and system. Where connections are made to concrete manhole sections refer to Specification C923.
Note 2: These connectors are not resilient connectors, and as such, allow for only a limited amount of lateral movement due to the tight compression seal between the PVC hub and insitu pipe/structure. Since these connectors are not rigid fittings, a significant amount of axial movement can be accommodated, but the degree of intrusion into the host pipe/structure must be regulated to minimize the impact on flow characteristics or hydraulic design conditions.  
1.3  The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the test methods portion, Section 7, of this specification: This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precaution statement, see Section 7.  
1.4 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: 30-Jun-2021
• ICS: 23.040.80 - Seals for pipe and hose assemblies
• Technical Committee: F17 - Plastic Piping Systems
• Drafting Committee: F17.20 - Joining

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D2665-24 - Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe and Fittings
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM A493-23 - Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Wire and Wire Rods for Cold Heading and Cold Forging
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2023
• Refers: ASTM D2665-20 - Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe and Fittings
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2020
• Refers: ASTM F412-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM F1417-11A(2019)e1 - Standard Practice for Installation Acceptance of Plastic Non-pressure Sewer Lines Using Low-Pressure Air
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM F1417-11a(2019) - Standard Practice for Installation Acceptance of Plastic Non-pressure Sewer Lines Using Low-Pressure Air
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM F412-19 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2019
• Refers: ASTM C822-18 - Standard Terminology Relating to Concrete Pipe and Related Products
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2018
• Refers: ASTM F412-17a - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2017
• Refers: ASTM F412-17 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2017
• Refers: ASTM F412-16a - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2016
• Refers: ASTM F412-16 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2016
• Refers: ASTM A493-16 - Standard Specification for Stainless Steel Wire and Wire Rods for Cold Heading and Cold Forging
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2016
• Refers: ASTM D3034-15e1 - Standard Specification for Type PSM Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Sewer Pipe and Fittings
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2015
• Refers: ASTM D3034-15 - Standard Specification for Type PSM Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Sewer Pipe and Fittings
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2015

Overview

ASTM F2946-12(2021) is the internationally recognized standard specification developed by ASTM for PVC hub and elastomeric seal (gasket) tee connections. This standard addresses the requirements for a three-piece tee connector system that connects plastic pipe to insitu pipes, manholes, and wastewater structures, specifically for sanitary and storm sewer applications. The connection system comprises a PVC hub (4 to 30 inches), an elastomeric seal, and a mechanical band. Designed to provide a watertight, non-pressure (gravity flow) connection, ASTM F2946 ensures durability and performance in critical underground piping infrastructure.

Key Topics

• Material and Performance Requirements
  Specifies the use of PVC for the hub, elastomeric gaskets meeting ASTM F477, and durable mechanical bands (typically corrosion-resistant stainless steel per ASTM A666 or A493).
• Three-Piece Seal System
  The connector must include:
  • PVC hub pipe
  • Elastomeric seal (gasket)
  • Mechanical band for compression
• Installation and Fit
  The tee connector is installed into a bored or cast opening in existing (insitu) pipes or manhole structures. It is sized according to the dimensions of the pipe and gasket for an effective seal.
• Watertight Gravity-Flow Connection
  Designed for non-pressurized systems, the specification ensures watertight seals at two locations: between the PVC hub and the structure, and between the hub and the gasket.
• Testing and Quality Assurance
  Laboratory testing is required for each connector size and configuration, including hydrostatic leak tests up to lab pressures of 13 psi. Field tests may be conducted as specified in project documents.
• Markings and Certification
  Each component is labeled with the standard designation, manufacturer, date, and size. Certification requirements ensure traceability and compliance.

Applications

ASTM F2946-12(2021) is vital for:

• Sanitary Sewer Installations
  Creating leak-free connections between new plastic sewers and existing pipelines or manholes, reducing infiltration/exfiltration risks.
• Storm Sewer Systems
  Enabling effective integration of plastic laterals into existing concrete or other pipeline materials in stormwater management infrastructure.
• Wastewater Structures
  Facilitating watertight service connections to wastewater containers, minimizing environmental impacts from leaks.
• Municipal and Civil Engineering Projects
  Used in municipal sewer system upgrades, repairs, and rehabilitations where reliable connections to existing infrastructure are necessary.
• Gravity Flow Piping Systems
  Ensuring consistent performance in gravity-driven, low-pressure applications where connection integrity is essential.

Related Standards

The following standards are referenced or closely associated with ASTM F2946-12(2021):

• ASTM F477 – Specification for elastomeric seals (gaskets) for joining plastic pipe.
• ASTM D1785, D2665, D3034, F679 – Standards for various types and sizes of PVC pipe.
• ASTM C923 – Specification for resilient connectors between reinforced concrete manhole structures, pipes, and laterals.
• ASTM F1417 – Practice for installation acceptance of plastic non-pressure sewer lines using low-pressure air.
• ASTM F2487 – Practice for infiltration and exfiltration testing of buried pipelines.
• ASTM A493, A666 – Specifications for stainless steel used in mechanical clamps/bands.
• AWWA C900 – PVC pipe for water transmission and distribution.

For reliable gravity sewer connections using plastic pipes and manhole structures, ASTM F2946 provides a comprehensive framework ensuring watertight installation, structural integrity, and system longevity.

Keywords: PVC hub, elastomeric seal, gasket, tee connection, plastic pipe, insitu pipes, manholes, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, watertight, ASTM F2946

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: F2946 −12 (Reapproved 2021) An American National Standard
Standard Specification for
PVC Hub and Elastomeric Seal (Gasket) Tee Connection for
Joining Plastic Pipe to Insitu Pipelines and Manholes
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F2946; 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 regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific precaution
statement, see Section 7.
1.1 This specification covers the minimum performance and
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
material requirements for a three piece tee connector for
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
connectionbetweenplasticpipeandinsitupipes,manholesand
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
wastewater structures in sanitary and storm sewer applications.
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.1.1 The three piece seal system consists of a 4 through
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
30-in. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) hub pipe, an elastomeric seal
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
(gasket)andamechanicalband(Fig.1).Thesystemisinstalled
in either a bored or cast hole opening in the host pipe or
2. Referenced Documents
structure to a specific dimension that corresponds to the
2.1 ASTM Standards:
combined diameter of the PVC pipe outside diameter/tolerance
A493 Specification for Stainless Steel Wire and Wire Rods
and the elastomeric seal thickness.
for Cold Heading and Cold Forging
1.2 These tee connectors are designed to provide a non-
A666 Specification forAnnealed or Cold-WorkedAustenitic
pressure (gravity flow) watertight connection between the
Stainless Steel Sheet, Strip, Plate, and Flat Bar
incoming pipe and an insitu pipe or manhole/structure to the
C822 Terminology Relating to Concrete Pipe and Related
limits defined in this standard.
Products
NOTE 1—Connections covered by this specification are adequate for
C923 Specification for Resilient Connectors Between Rein-
laboratory hydrostatic pressures up to 13 psi (30 ft of head) without
forced Concrete Manhole Structures, Pipes, and Laterals
leakage when tested in accordance with the provisions of this standard.
Infiltration or exfiltration quantities for an installed system are dependent
(Metric) C0923_C0923M
upon many factors other than the connections between incoming pipe and
D1566 Terminology Relating to Rubber
the insitu pipe or manhole structure, and allowable quantities may need to
D1785 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic
be covered by other specifications and suitable testing of the installed
Pipe, Schedules 40, 80, and 120
pipeline and system. Where connections are made to concrete manhole
D2665 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic
sections refer to Specification C923.
NOTE 2—These connectors are not resilient connectors, and as such,
Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe and Fittings
allow for only a limited amount of lateral movement due to the tight
D3034 Specification for Type PSM Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
compression seal between the PVC hub and insitu pipe/structure. Since
(PVC) Sewer Pipe and Fittings
these connectors are not rigid fittings, a significant amount of axial
F412 Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
movement can be accommodated, but the degree of intrusion into the host
F477 Specification for Elastomeric Seals (Gaskets) for Join-
pipe/structure must be regulated to minimize the impact on flow charac-
teristics or hydraulic design conditions.
ing Plastic Pipe
F679 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Large-
1.3 The following precautionary caveat pertains only to the
Diameter Plastic Gravity Sewer Pipe and Fittings
test methods portion, Section 7, of this specification: This
F1417 Practice for Installation Acceptance of Plastic Non-
standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns,
pressure Sewer Lines Using Low-Pressure Air
if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user
F2487 Practice for Infiltration and Exfiltration Acceptance
of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and
Testing of Installed Corrugated High Density Polyethyl-
environmental practices and determine the applicability of
ene and Polypropylene Pipelines
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F17 on Plastic
Piping Systems and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F17.20 on Joining. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved July 1, 2021. Published October 2021. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approvedin2012.Lastpreviouseditionapprovedin2017asF2946–12(2017).DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/F2946–12R21 the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F2946 − 12 (2021)
FIG. 1 Three-Piece Sealing System (Connector)
2.2 AWWA Standard: 4.2 Mechanical Device or Band—Take-up devices used for
C900 Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Pipe and Fabri- mechanically compressing the resilient portion of the connec-
cated Fittings, 4 in. Through 12 in. (100 mm Through 300 tor against the pipe, manhole or wastewater structure shall be
mm), for Water Transmission and Distribution made from a material or materials in combination that will
ensure durability, strength, resistance to corrosion, and have
3. Terminology
properties that will ensure continued resistance to leakage. All
3.1 Definitions: metallic mechanical devices, including castings and bolt as-
semblies used to mechanically deform elastomeric seals shall
3.1.1 Terms relating to plastics and rubber shall be as
defined in Terminologies F412 and D1566, respectively. be constructed of corrosion resistant materials meeting the
physical properties and chemical composition requirements of
3.1.2 Terms relating to precast concrete pipe, manholes, and
related products shall be as defined in Terminology C822. Specifications A493 and A666, Type 302 through Type 316.
The minimum torque requirement for securing the band around
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
the PVC hub shall be 60 in-lbs.
3.2.1 connector, n—the entire assembly including pipe hub,
elastomeric seal and mechanical band.
4.3 PVC Hubs—PVC pipe and joint sections that constitute
the hub component of this system shall be fabricated from pipe
3.2.2 insitu, adj—reflects the condition of the pipe, manhole
and joint that meet the requirements of either Specification
orwastewaterstructurethatservesasthehosttotheconnector.
D1785, D2665, D3034, F679 or AWWA C900.
These facilities are existing structures that has been excavated
NOTE 3—Experience has shown that successful performance of this
for the purposes of tapping or connecting into the line.
product depends on the type of bedding and backfill and the care in the
3.2.3 mechanical band, n—metallic or nonmetallic me-
field installation of the manhole or wastewater structure and connecting
chanical device used for compressing an elastomeric seal
pipes. The owner is cautioned that field inspection at the construction site
may be necessary.
againstapipe’soutsidediameterwall,typicallyastainlesssteel
worm screw clamp.
5. Principles of Design
3.2.4 pipe hub, n—a short section of pipe used to made a
watertight connection to the incoming pipeline. This pipe hub
5.1 The design of the connector shall be such that positive
is typically made from the same pipe material and meeting the
seal is accomplished at two locations: (1) between the elasto-
same ASTM standard as the incoming pipeline.
meric seal and the wall of the insitu pipe, manhole or
wastewater structure and (2) between the elastomeric seal and
4. Materials and Manufacture
the pipe hub. The watertight seal between the insitu pipe,
4.1 All materials shall conform to the following require- manhole or waste water structure is made by the compression
ments:
of the gasket between the insitu structure and the pipe hub.
4.1.1 Elastomeric Seals—Gasket materials for connectors
5.1.1 The seal between the connector and the wall of the
shall meet the requirements of F477.
insitu pipe, manhole or wastewater structure shall be made by
mechanical means, compression of the elastomeric seal be-
tweentheoutsidesurfaceofthepipehubandtheopeninginthe
Available fromAmerican Water WorksAssociation (AWWA), 6666 W. Quincy
Ave., Denver, CO 80235, http://www.awwa.org. wall of the insitu pipe, manhole or wastewa
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