ASTM F3565-23

Standard Practice for Electrofusion Joining Polyethylene (PE) Pipe and Fittings for Pressure Pipe Service

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Using the procedures and apparatus in Sections 8 and 9 and the manufacturer's instructions, pressure-tight joints as strong as the pipe itself can be made between manufacturer-recommended combinations of pipe and fittings. See Specification F1055 for performance requirements of polyethylene electrofusion fittings.
SCOPE
1.1 This practice describes procedures for making joints suitable for pressure service with polyethylene (PE) pipe and fittings by means of electrofusion joining techniques in, but not limited to, a field environment. Other suitable electrofusion joining procedures are available from various sources including fitting manufacturers. This standard does not purport to address all possible electrofusion joining procedures, or to preclude the use of qualified procedures developed by other parties that have been proven to produce reliable electrofusion joints. (Note 1)
Note 1: Reference to the manufacturer in this practice refers to the electrofusion fitting manufacturer.  
1.2 The parameters and procedure are applicable only to joining polyethylene pipe and fittings (Note 2) which are intended for PE fuel gas pipe per Specification D2513 and PE potable water, sewer and industrial pipe manufactured per Specification F714, Specification D3035, Specification F2619, and AWWA C901 and C906.
Note 2: Commercially available materials classified with a thermoplastic pipe material designation code beginning with PE 14, PE 23, PE 24, PE 27, PE 33, PE 34, PE 36, and PE 46, and PE 47 in accordance with Specification D3350 and Terminology F412 are generally acceptable for electrofusion joining using this practice. Consult with the pipe or fitting manufacturer for specific compatibility information.  
1.3 Parts that are within the dimensional tolerances given in present ASTM specifications are required to produce sound joints between polyethylene pipe and fittings when using the joining techniques described in this practice.  
1.4 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.  
1.5 The text of this practice references notes, footnotes, and appendices which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the practice.  
1.6 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.  
1.7 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-2023
• Technical Committee: F17 - Plastic Piping Systems
• Drafting Committee: F17.20 - Joining

Relations

• Refers: ASTM F714-24 - Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DR-PR) Based on Outside Diameter
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2024
• Refers: ASTM F412-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM F412-19 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2019
• Refers: ASTM D2513-18 - Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2018
• Refers: ASTM D1600-18 - Standard Terminology for Abbreviated Terms Relating to Plastics (Withdrawn 2024)
• 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 D2513-16a - Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2016
• Refers: ASTM D2513-16 - Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2016
• 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 F1055-16 - Standard Specification for Electrofusion Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene and Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe and Tubing
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2016
• Refers: ASTM F1055-15 - Standard Specification for Electrofusion Type Polyethylene Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene and Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe and Tubing
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2015
• Refers: ASTM F412-15 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Jun-2015
• Refers: ASTM D3035-14a - Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DR-PR) Based on Controlled Outside Diameter
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2014

Overview

ASTM F3565-23 is a standard practice developed by ASTM International for the electrofusion joining of polyethylene (PE) pipe and fittings intended for pressure pipe service. Electrofusion offers a reliable and efficient method for assembling pressure-tight joints in PE piping systems, typically used in potable water, fuel gas, sewer, and industrial applications. The procedures outlined in this standard apply both in controlled environments and in the field, following manufacturer’s instructions and verified joining techniques.

This standard supports the creation of joints as strong as the pipe itself between compatible, manufacturer-recommended pipe and fitting combinations. The practice is relevant for users seeking to ensure the performance, safety, and reliability of pressure PE piping networks, and aligns with internationally recognized standardization principles.

Key Topics

• Electrofusion joining process: Utilizes a heat fusion method where resistance wire heating elements within a fitting melt and bond the contacting PE pipe and fitting surfaces.
• Applicable materials: Covers PE pipes and fittings meeting the requirements of standards such as ASTM D2513 (fuel gas), ASTM F714, D3035, F2619, AWWA C901, and C906 (water, sewer, industrial).
• Operator qualification: Emphasizes the need for trained, qualified individuals to ensure the integrity of electrofusion joints. Operators should follow accepted procedures and obtain guidance from the manufacturer and regulatory agencies.
• Processes and apparatus: Addresses both socket and saddle electrofusion techniques, specifying necessary equipment such as control boxes, power sources, alignment devices, surface preparation tools (scrapers and peelers), cleaning solvents, and rerounding devices.
• Field and environmental considerations: Advises on precautions during joining in varying weather conditions, contamination risks, and the handling and storage of electrofusion fittings.
• Joint quality assurance: Requires verification of joint integrity through visual inspections, adherence to fusion/cooling times, and pressure testing according to system specifications.

Applications

ASTM F3565-23 is widely applicable in industries utilizing buried or aboveground pressure piping systems made of polyethylene. Common applications include:

• Municipal water distribution: Ensures leak-free and durable pipe networks for clean water delivery.
• Industrial piping: Facilitates secure connections in systems transporting various fluids under pressure.
• Sewer and drainage: Provides a reliable joining solution for PE sewer pipelines requiring chemical resistance and structural strength.
• Fuel gas distribution: Enables safe, high-integrity joints for natural gas and propane delivery lines.

The standard is especially valuable in field installations, repair scenarios, new construction projects, and situations where rapid, safe joining is critical.

Related Standards

• ASTM D2513: Specification for PE gas pressure pipe, tubing, and fittings.
• ASTM D3035: Specification for PE plastic pipe (DR-PR) based on controlled outside diameter.
• ASTM F714: Specification for PE plastic pipe based on outside diameter.
• ASTM F1055: Specification for electrofusion type PE and PEX fittings, detailing performance requirements.
• ASTM D3350: Specification for PE plastics pipe and fitting materials.
• AWWA C901 and C906: Standards for PE pressure pipe used in water service and distribution.
• Plastics Pipe Institute TR-49: Generic guide for field joining of polyethylene gas pipe.

These documents provide essential terminology, material classifications, and additional technical guidance to support compliant design, installation, and testing of PE piping systems using electrofusion techniques.

Keywords: ASTM F3565-23, electrofusion joining, polyethylene pipe, PE fittings, pressure pipe service, socket fusion, saddle fusion, PE piping installation, gas pipe joining, water pipe standards, ASTM PE standards.

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: F3565 − 23 An American National Standard
Standard Practice for
Electrofusion Joining Polyethylene (PE) Pipe and Fittings
for Pressure Pipe Service
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F3565; 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 and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not
be considered as requirements of the practice.
1.1 This practice describes procedures for making joints
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
suitable for pressure service with polyethylene (PE) pipe and
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
fittings by means of electrofusion joining techniques in, but not
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
limited to, a field environment. Other suitable electrofusion
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
joining procedures are available from various sources includ-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
ing fitting manufacturers. This standard does not purport to
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
address all possible electrofusion joining procedures, or to
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
preclude the use of qualified procedures developed by other
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
parties that have been proven to produce reliable electrofusion
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
joints. (Note 1)
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
NOTE 1—Reference to the manufacturer in this practice refers to the
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
electrofusion fitting manufacturer.
2. Referenced Documents
1.2 The parameters and procedure are applicable only to
joining polyethylene pipe and fittings (Note 2) which are
2.1 ASTM Standards:
intended for PE fuel gas pipe per Specification D2513 and PE
D1600 Terminology for Abbreviated Terms Relating to Plas-
potable water, sewer and industrial pipe manufactured per
tics
Specification F714, Specification D3035, Specification F2619,
D2513 Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Gas Pressure
and AWWA C901 and C906.
Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings
D3035 Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DR-
NOTE 2—Commercially available materials classified with a thermo-
plastic pipe material designation code beginning with PE 14, PE 23, PE PR) Based on Controlled Outside Diameter
24, PE 27, PE 33, PE 34, PE 36, and PE 46, and PE 47 in accordance with
D3350 Specification for Polyethylene Plastics Pipe and Fit-
Specification D3350 and Terminology F412 are generally acceptable for
tings Materials
electrofusion joining using this practice. Consult with the pipe or fitting
F412 Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
manufacturer for specific compatibility information.
F714 Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DR-
1.3 Parts that are within the dimensional tolerances given in
PR) Based on Outside Diameter
present ASTM specifications are required to produce sound
F1055 Specification for Electrofusion Type Polyethylene
joints between polyethylene pipe and fittings when using the
Fittings for Outside Diameter Controlled Polyethylene
joining techniques described in this practice.
and Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe and Tubing
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
F2619 Specification for High-Density Polyethylene (PE)
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
Line Pipe
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
2.2 PPI Documents:
and are not considered standard.
TR-49 Generic Electrofusion Joining Guide for Field Join-
ing of Polyethylene Gas Pipe
1.5 The text of this practice references notes, footnotes, and
appendices which provide explanatory material. These notes
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F17 on Plastic Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Piping Systems and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F17.20 on Joining. the ASTM website.
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2023. Published September 2023. DOI: Available from Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI), 105 Decker Court, Suite 825,
10.1520/F3565-23 Irving, TX 75062, http://www.plasticpipe.org.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F3565 − 23
2.3 AWWA Documents: oped in conjunction with applicable codes and regulations and
AWWA C901 Standard for Polyethylene (PE) Pressure Pipe the manufacturers of the pipe, fittings, and joining equipment
and Tubing, ⁄2 in. (13 mm) through 3 in. (76 mm), for involved, including the safety precautions to be followed, are
Water Service issued before actual joining operations begin.
AWWA C906 Standard for Polyethylene (PE) Pressure Pipe
5.4 These procedures require the use of electrical and
and Fittings, 4 in. (100 mm) through 63 in. (1575 mm), for
mechanical equipment. The operator shall ensure that recom-
Water Distribution and Transmission
mended procedures developed for the electrofusion fittings
involved, including the safety precautions to be followed, are
3. Terminology
issued before joining operations commence. It is especially
3.1 Definitions—Definitions are in accordance with Termi-
important that the operator be aware of specific instructions
nology F412, and abbreviations are in accordance with Termi-
regarding the use of electrical equipment in the presence of a
nology D1600, unless otherwise specified.
potentially explosive environment.
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
6. Electrofusion Joining Processes
3.2.1 control box, also referred to as processor—the appa-
6.1 Electrofusion is a heat-fusion joining process where the
ratus placed between the power source and the electrofusion
heat source is a resistance wire heating element that is an
fitting to regulate voltage or current input to the fitting for the
integral part of the fitting. Energy is supplied to the resistance
specified time or energy defined by the electrofusion fitting
wire by a control box that supplies voltage determined by input
fusion parameters.
of fusion parameters through (1) a barcode on the fitting that is
3.2.2 operator—an individual that has been evaluated and
scanned by the control box or (2) an identification device that
found to be qualified to make electrofusion joints in accordance
is integral to the fitting and sensed by the control box or (3)
with this standard.
manual entry of the fusion parameters by the operator. When
3.2.3 pipe end—the end of a length of pipe or fitting spigot
energy is applied, heat is produced, melting and joining the
end having pipe dimensions such as a tee, elbow, valve, etc.
components. As the polyethylene pipe and fitting surfaces melt
3.2.4 peeler—a pipe surface preparation tool that is de- they undergo volumetric expansion that closes annular spaces
signed to remove a controlled amount of outer pipe surface or between the pipe and fitting. Continued melt expansion gener-
pipe end material in a continuous ribbon during the pipe ates pressure within the heated zones. The expanding melt
preparation process for electrofusion joining. reaches areas within the fitting where heat is not produced,
called cold zones, allowing the leading edges of melt flow to
3.2.5 scraper—a pipe surface preparation tool that uses a
cool and solidify, thereby blocking any further melt movement
smooth or serrated blade that is dragged over the pipe surface
or escape. The heating process continues for a predetermined
to scrape away outer pipe or pipe end material during the pipe
time so that substantial pressure is reached through continued
preparation process for electrofusion joining.
melt expansion in the contained melt pool of the pipe and
4. Significance and Use fitting surfaces, also known as the joint. Fusion occurs when
the pipe and fitting materials mix together and the joint cools
4.1 Using the procedures and apparatus in Sections 8 and 9
below its melt temperature co-crystallizing into a homogenous
and the manufacturer’s instructions, pressure-tight joints as
monolithic structure. Maximum joint strength has occurred
strong as the pipe itself can be made between manufacturer-
when the joint reaches ambient temperature
recommended combinations of pipe and fittings. See Specifi-
6.2 Electrofusion fitting manufacturers establish and qualify
cation F1055 for performance requirements of polyethylene
electrofusion fittings. ambient temperature joining limitations for their fitting de-
signs. Verify the acceptable installation temperature limit with
5. Operator Experience
the fitting manufacturer.
5.1 Skill and knowledge on the part of the operator are
7. Classification
required to obtain a good quality joint. The skill and knowl-
7.1 Technique 1: Socket Type—The electrofusion socket
edge are obtained by making joints in accordance with proven
technique involves heat fusion of pipe or pipe ends with a
procedures under the guidance of qualified evaluator.
fitting utilizing socket ends with a pipe section or pipe end
5.2 Each operator shall be qualified in accordance with
inserted in each end of the fitting. The sockets contain a
recommended procedures and any regulatory agency or indus-
resistance wire coil located on the inner surface that acts as an
try organization that has jurisdiction over these practices. For
internal heat source. When voltage is applied, heat is produced
gas applications, qualification of the procedure by testing joints
to melt the inside of the fitting and the outside of the pipe. An
made using the procedure in accordance with regulations from
alignment device or method shall be used to secure the joint
the authority having jurisdiction are required.
and hold it in axial alignment during the joining process. The
5.3 The party responsible for the joining of polyethylene device or method may be either external or one that is integral
pipe and fittings shall ensure that detailed procedures devel-
to the fitting itself.
7.2 Technique 2: Saddle Type—The electrofusion saddle
technique involves heat fusion of a saddle fitting to the outer
Available from American Water Works Association (AWWA), 6666 W. Quincy
Ave., Denver, CO 80235, http://www.awwa.org. surface of a pipe. The heat source is a resistance coil and is
F3565 − 23
located on the fusion surface of the concave base of the saddle surface. The marker shall be of a type that is fast drying and
fitting. When voltage is applied, heat is produced at the contains no additives such as greases or other petroleum bases
interface of the pipe and fitting, melting the surfaces of the two
that may hinder the fusion process. A marking pen is used to
components. A restraining device is used to hold the fitting in
define the boundaries before peeling or scraping the pipe
place on the pipe during the fusion process. The device may be
surface.
either external or one that is integral to the saddle fitting itself.
8.1.6.3 Cleaning Solvent—A 90 % or greater concentration
of isopropyl alcohol in water. No other additives may be
8. Apparatus
present in the isopropyl alcohol solution. Acetone has been
8.1 General Recommendations:
evaluated as a cleaning solvent and is an acceptable alternate to
8.1.1 Power Source—An adequate source of electricity is isopropyl alcohol.
required. Consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for the
8.1.6.4 Wiping Cloth—A clean, dry, low-lint cloth or paper
type of power (ac or dc), input voltage, frequency (Hertz) and
towel should be used for removing surface preparation residue
power output (kW) required for proper fusion of fittings. A
from the joining surfaces. Packaged 90 % or greater isopropyl
transformer may be required if the source voltage differs from
alcohol wipes are also suitable. Considerations of the hazards
the voltage recommended by the manufacturer.
of static electricity should be applied in selection of a wiping
8.1.2 Extension Cord—If the power source is remote from
cloth material.
the installation site, an extension cord may be required. Select
8.1.6.5 Rerounding Devices—Rerounding equipment is
an extension cord following manufacturer’s recommendations
used to bring the pipe into the out of round limitation
of sufficient conductor size to deliver the required voltage to
requirements of the applicable pipe standard or the limitations
the control box.
established by the electrofusion fitting manufacturer, which-
8.1.3 Control Box—A control box is required to deliver the
ever is more severe. (Note 4)
appropriate amount of energy to the electrofusion fitting.
Control boxes incorporate (1) a barcode scanning device that
NOTE 4—Some alignment devices may also be capable of rerounding
reads the input parameters on the electrofusion fitting, or (2) a
pipe ends.
means of sensing a value provided by the electrofusion fitting
8.1.6.6 Witness Mark Scribing Device—A device that
that determines the fusion parameters, or (3) allow manual
scribes a mark on the surface to be prepared for electrofusion
input of the fusion parameters. Not all control boxes are
joining that aids the installer in determining that the minimum
compatible with all electrofusion fittings. Consult the fitting
amount of surface has been removed by scraping. The depth of
manufacturer to determine the compatibility of control boxes
the mark is controlled to an amount that is slightly less than the
not made by the same manufacturer as the fitting.
minimum recommended pipe surface material removal depth
8.1.4 Alignment Device or method—Alignment control is
so that complete removal of the scribed mark visually ensures
required for electrofusion. Various types of alignment and
that adequate material has been removed during pipe prepara-
clamping devices or methods are available. The device or
tion.
method will align and restrain the pipe and fitting being joined
during the fusion and cooling cycles.
9. Joining Procedure
8.1.5 Surface Preparation Equipment—The purpose of sur-
face preparation is to remove surface contamination and
9.1 Precaution—Fusion quality can be affected if extreme
oxidation from the pipe or pipe ends prior to assembly and
weather conditions exist such as high winds, blowing dust and
fusion. A surface removing tool is required to remove the outer
dirt, and wet conditions (see 6.2 for information regarding
layer of material on the pipe or pipe end surface prior to fusion.
installation temperature limits). Ambient temperature limita-
Tools used for this purpose are commonly called peelers or
tions of the electrofusion control box and fitting should be
scrapers. Only qualified procedures and tools intended to
considered when making field joints. Observe normal precau-
prepare the pipe surface shall be used. Emery cloth or
tions in the use of electrical equipment, especially in wet
sandpaper is not acceptable and shall not be used. (Note 3).
environments.
NOTE 3—Pipe surface preparation is very important to ensure total
9.1.1 Fitting handling and storage—Electrofusion fittings
fusion. Not all surface preparation tools perform equally. Tools such as
are packaged in sealed plastic bags. This packaging is intended
peelers that are designed to remove a controlled and measurable amount
to provide some protection from dirt and contamination during
of surface material are recommended. Tools should be inspected for
proper function and cleanliness before each use to ensure proper surface normal storage and handling, but it is good practice to inspect
layer removal depth and to prevent accidental introduction of potential
and clean electrofusion fitting fusion surfaces with a cleaning
contaminants. Witness marks made on the pipe surface to be prepared can
solvent and a wiping cloth before use. Avoid touching fitting
visually aid the installer in verifying that the surface is properly prepared.
and prepared pipe fusion surfaces with hands because body oils
8.1.6 Additional Equipment—Th
...