ASTM F1970-23

Standard Specification for Special Engineered Fittings, Appurtenances or Valves for use in Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) or Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Systems

ABSTRACT
This specification covers special engineered fittings, appurtenances or valves for use in poly(vinyl chloride) or chlorinated poly(vinyl chloride) pipe and tubing systems. Fittings or appurtenances covered by this specification are generally either molded, fabricated, or assembled from molded or machined components. The materials used in components include rigid thermoplastics, thermoplastic elastomers, elastomerics, and metals. Seal dimensions shall be in accordance with the standard design dimensions and tolerances and shall be designed in such a manner as to provide adequate compressive force against mating parts after assembly. Solvent-weld, threaded, flange, and spigot connections shall also meet the requirements for bolt patterns, average outside diameter, out-of-plane roundness, and minimum wall thickness of the corresponding pipe. Hydrostatic internal pressure tests shall be performed on valves, check valves, and blind flanges to verify compliance with hydrostatic pressure resistance, leakage resistance, joint tightness, and activation pressure requirements.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers fittings, appurtenances and valves which are to be used with pipe and tubing complying with Specifications D1785, D2241, D2846/D2846M, F441/F441M or F442/F442M, or other piping as specified by the fittings manufacturer. These products, such as unions, flanges or valves, are not included in the scope of existing ASTM specifications. This specification includes minimum requirements for testing, materials, dimensions, workmanship, marking, and in-plant quality control.  
1.2 Fittings or appurtenances covered by this specification are generally either molded, fabricated, or assembled from molded or machined components. The materials used in components include rigid thermoplastics, thermoplastic elastomers, elastomerics, and metals. The body or main portion of the fitting, appurtenance or valve is typically PVC, CPVC, PE or PA (nylon). All products covered by this standard are intended to be used in PVC or CPVC plastic piping systems, or as a transition from these to metal systems.  
1.3 The application of these products to gas service is beyond the scope of this specification.  
1.4 The products covered by this specification are intended for use with the distribution of pressurized liquids only, which are chemically compatible with the piping materials. Due to inherent hazards associated with testing components and systems with compressed air or other compressed gases some manufacturers do not allow pneumatic testing of their products. Consult with specific product/component manufacturers for their specific testing procedures prior to pneumatic testing.  
Note 1: Warning: Pressurized (compressed) air or other compressed gases contain large amounts of stored energy which present serious safety which present serious safety hazards should a system fail for any reason.  
1.5 Fittings which rely on heat fusion welding for connection to the piping system are outside the scope of this specification.  
1.6 Check valves (including foot valves) covered by this specification shall not be considered backflow prevention devices and shall not be used for the protection of a potable water supply. For definitions and requirements of backflow prevention devices, consult model plumbing codes and ASSE.2  
1.7 Due to the complex and installation-specific concerns surrounding chemical resistance and corrosion, this specification does not address the compatibility of the products with all possible end-use environments. Additional testing specific to the end-use environment is recommended if the system is conveying liquids other than potable water.  
1.8 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.  
1.9 The following safety caveat applies only to the test ...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 14-Feb-2023
• ICS: 23.040.45 - Plastics fittings
• Technical Committee: F17 - Plastic Piping Systems
• Drafting Committee: F17.10 - Fittings

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D2846/D2846M-24 - Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Hot- and Cold-Water Distribution Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM D2241-24 - Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pressure-Rated Pipe (SDR Series)
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM F439-24 - Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2024
• Refers: ASTM D1898-68(1989) - Standard Practice for Sampling of Plastics (Withdrawn 1998)
• Effective Date: 29-Sep-2023
• Refers: ASTM D2241-20 - Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pressure-Rated Pipe (SDR Series)
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2020
• Refers: ASTM D2467-20 - Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2020
• Refers: ASTM F412-20 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2020
• Refers: ASTM D1784-20 - Standard Classification System and Basis for Specification for Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Compounds and Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Compounds
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM F439-19 - Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM F442/F442M-19 - Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR–PR)
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2019
• Refers: ASTM D2846/D2846M-19a - Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Hot- and Cold-Water Distribution Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2019
• Refers: ASTM D2846/D2846M-19 - Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Hot- and Cold-Water Distribution Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2019
• Refers: ASTM F412-19 - Standard Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2019
• Refers: ASTM D1599-18 - Standard Test Method for Resistance to Short-Time Hydraulic Pressure of Plastic Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2018
• Refers: ASTM D1600-18 - Standard Terminology for Abbreviated Terms Relating to Plastics (Withdrawn 2024)
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2018

Overview

ASTM F1970-23 is the definitive standard specification developed by ASTM International for special engineered fittings, appurtenances, or valves used in Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) and Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) piping systems. This standard establishes critical requirements for the manufacture, materials, testing, and performance of such products where compatibility, pressure integrity, and reliable sealing are of utmost importance. ASTM F1970-23 fills the gap for items such as unions, flanges, and valves that are not covered by existing PVC or CPVC pipe fitting standards, ensuring system integrity in pressurized liquid distribution applications.

Key Topics

• Scope and Coverage

  • Applies to special engineered fittings, appurtenances, and valves for use with PVC/CPVC pipes compliant with ASTM D1785, D2241, D2846/D2846M, F441/F441M, or F442/F442M.
  • Intended for systems transporting pressurized, chemically compatible liquids; not suitable for gas service or as backflow prevention devices.

• Material Requirements

  • Components must generally be fabricated, molded, or assembled from rigid thermoplastics (like PVC or CPVC), thermoplastic elastomers, elastomerics, and metals.
  • The main body or critical portions are typically PVC, CPVC, PE, or Nylon, with seals compliant with standardized compression and material requirements.

• Dimensional and Performance Criteria

  • Seal dimensions, solvent-weld, threaded, flange, and spigot connections must all conform to rigorous dimensional standards for proper sealing and mechanical compatibility.
  • All tested products must comply with requirements for wall thickness, roundness, and bolt pattern consistency.

• Testing and Quality Assurance

  • Hydrostatic internal pressure testing verifies resistance to pressure, leakage, joint integrity, and valve activation.
  • In-plant quality control includes sampling, dimensional verification, burst testing, and marking for traceability.

• Product Markings

  • Products must display clear information: manufacturer, material designation, recommended pressure and temperature, nominal size, and the F1970 designation.

Applications

• Potable Water & Industrial Piping

  • ASTM F1970-23 fittings and valves are frequently found in potable water systems, as well as industrial and commercial liquid distribution networks using PVC or CPVC piping.
  • Valves, unions, and flanges conforming to this standard are used in municipal infrastructure, building plumbing, process water systems, and irrigation.

• System Compatibility and Transition

  • Special engineered appurtenances aid in transitions between plastic and metal piping, and in connecting or controlling flow where traditional fittings may not be suitable.
  • Designed to maintain pressure integrity and chemical compatibility across a range of service conditions.

• Health and Safety

  • Products intended for potable water contact must meet or exceed ANSI/NSF Standards 61 and 14 for health effects, promoting public safety and regulatory compliance.

Related Standards

• Referenced ASTM Standards

  • ASTM D1785: PVC Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40, 80, and 120
  • ASTM D2241: PVC Pressure-Rated Pipe
  • ASTM D2846/D2846M: CPVC Hot- and Cold-Water Distribution
  • ASTM F441/F441M & F442/F442M: CPVC plastic pipe
  • ASTM F477: Elastomeric seals for joining plastic pipe
  • ASTM F1498: Taper Pipe Threads for thermoplastic fittings

• Supplementary Standards

  • ASME B1.20.1 & B16.5: Pipe threads and flanges
  • NSF 14 & 61: Plastics piping & health effects for drinking water
  • ASSE Standards for backflow prevention (where applicable)
  • ISA S75.02: Control valve capacity test procedure

Practical Value

Implementing ASTM F1970-23 provides assurance of product quality, performance, and fitness for liquid distribution systems that require robust and reliable PVC or CPVC fittings and valves. It standardizes manufacturing, testing, and marking protocols, supporting compliance, safety, and interoperability in building and industrial piping systems.

Keywords: ASTM F1970-23, PVC fittings, CPVC valves, special engineered fittings, plastic piping systems, hydrostatic pressure testing, potable water, appurtenances, elastomeric seals, industrial piping, NSF 61, ASME, pipeline quality control.

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: F1970 − 23 An American National Standard
Standard Specification for
Special Engineered Fittings, Appurtenances or Valves for
use in Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) or Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl
Chloride) (CPVC) Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1970; 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* 1.6 Check valves (including foot valves) covered by this
specification shall not be considered backflow prevention
1.1 This specification covers fittings, appurtenances and
devices and shall not be used for the protection of a potable
valves which are to be used with pipe and tubing complying
water supply. For definitions and requirements of backflow
with Specifications D1785, D2241, D2846/D2846M, F441/
prevention devices, consult model plumbing codes and ASSE.
F441M or F442/F442M, or other piping as specified by the
fittings manufacturer. These products, such as unions, flanges 1.7 Due to the complex and installation-specific concerns
or valves, are not included in the scope of existing ASTM
surrounding chemical resistance and corrosion, this specifica-
specifications. This specification includes minimum require- tion does not address the compatibility of the products with all
ments for testing, materials, dimensions, workmanship,
possible end-use environments. Additional testing specific to
marking, and in-plant quality control. the end-use environment is recommended if the system is
conveying liquids other than potable water.
1.2 Fittings or appurtenances covered by this specification
are generally either molded, fabricated, or assembled from
1.8 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
molded or machined components. The materials used in
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
components include rigid thermoplastics, thermoplastic
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
elastomers, elastomerics, and metals. The body or main portion
and are not considered standard.
of the fitting, appurtenance or valve is typically PVC, CPVC,
1.9 The following safety caveat applies only to the test
PE or PA (nylon). All products covered by this standard are
methods and in-plant quality control portions, section of this
intended to be used in PVC or CPVC plastic piping systems, or
specification: This standard does not purport to address all of
as a transition from these to metal systems.
the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
1.3 The application of these products to gas service is responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
beyond the scope of this specification. priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 The products covered by this specification are intended
1.10 This international standard was developed in accor-
for use with the distribution of pressurized liquids only, which
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
are chemically compatible with the piping materials. Due to
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
inherent hazards associated with testing components and sys-
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
tems with compressed air or other compressed gases some
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
manufacturers do not allow pneumatic testing of their products.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Consult with specific product/component manufacturers for
their specific testing procedures prior to pneumatic testing.
2. Referenced Documents
NOTE 1—Warning: Pressurized (compressed) air or other compressed
2.1 ASTM Standards:
gases contain large amounts of stored energy which present serious safety
which present serious safety hazards should a system fail for any reason.
D1598 Test Method for Time-to-Failure of Plastic Pipe
Under Constant Internal Pressure
1.5 Fittings which rely on heat fusion welding for connec-
tion to the piping system are outside the scope of this
specification.
American Society of Sanitary Engineering, 28901 Clemens Rd., Suite 100,
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F17 on Plastic Westlake, OH 44145.
Piping Systems and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F17.10 For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Current edition approved Feb. 15, 2023. Published March 2023. Originally contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
approved in 1999. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as F1970–22. DOI: Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
10.1520/F1970-23. the ASTM website.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1970 − 23
D1599 Test Method for Resistance to Short-Time Hydraulic 3. Terminology
Pressure of Plastic Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings
3.1 General—Definitions are in accordance with the Defi-
D1600 Terminology for Abbreviated Terms Relating to Plas-
nitions in F412 and abbreviations are in accordance with
tics
D1600 unless otherwise specified.
D1784 Classification System and Basis for Specification for
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Compounds and Chlo-
3.2.1 appurtenances—accessories of a plastic piping system
rinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Compounds
designed for special applications or end-uses. Appurtenances
D1785 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic
may include, but are not limited to pipes, fittings, valves,
Pipe, Schedules 40, 80, and 120
storage tanks, mechanical devices and expansion tanks.
D1898 Practice for Sampling of Plastics (Withdrawn 1998)
D2000 Classification System for Rubber Products in Auto- 3.2.2 connections—the portion of the fitting intended to join
the fitting with the rest of the piping system (see 5.1).
motive Applications
D2122 Test Method for Determining Dimensions of Ther-
3.2.3 CTS—abbreviation for “copper tube size”, indicating
moplastic Pipe and Fittings
an outside-diameter controlled tubing with outside diameter
D2241 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC)
dimensions meeting the tube specifications given in Specifica-
Pressure-Rated Pipe (SDR Series)
tion D2846/D2846M.
D2466 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic
3.2.4 IPS—abbreviation for “iron pipe size”, indicating an
Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40
outside-diameter controlled tubing with outside diameter di-
D2467 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic
mensions meeting the requirements of schedule 40 pipe (see
Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80
Specification D1785 for dimensions of schedule 40 pipe).
D2846/D2846M Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl
3.2.5 lot size—the total number of completely finished
Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Hot- and Cold-Water Distribu-
fittings or appurtenances that are manufactured under condi-
tion Systems
tions of production that are considered uniform.
F412 Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
F438 Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl 3.2.6 referee test—testing conducted to compare perfor-
Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40 mance of the product against all requirements of this specifi-
F439 Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) cation. In-plant QC testing is not considered referee testing.
(CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80
4. Materials and Manufacture
F441/F441M Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chlo-
ride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40 and 80
4.1 The elastomeric seals designed for push-on joints,
F442/F442M Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chlo-
which require no internal or external pressure to effect the
ride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR–PR)
initial seal, shall comply with the requirements of Specification
F477 Specification for Elastomeric Seals (Gaskets) for Join-
F477, Table 1 for thermoset, Table 2 for thermoplastic.
ing Plastic Pipe
4.2 All other elastomeric seals shall be designed to meet the
F1498 Specification for Taper Pipe Threads 60° for Thermo-
product performance requirements stated within this document
plastic Pipe and Fittings
and be specified in accordance with Classification D2000.
2.2 ASME Standards:
4.3 Materials used in components which provide structural
B1.20.1 Pipe Threads, General Purpose (Inch)
integrity of the fitting or appurtenance shall meet the require-
B16.5 Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings
ments of 4.3.1, 4.3.2, or 4.4.
2.3 NSF Standards:
NSF 14 Plastics Piping Components and Related Materials
NOTE 2—Components which provide structural integrity include the
NSF 61 Drinking Water System Components - Health Ef- body; connections such as sockets, compression joint components,
saddles, and flanges.
fects
2.4 ISA Standard: 4.3.1 PVC materials shall meet the minimum requirements
ISA S75.02 Control Valve Capacity Test Procedure for a cell-classification of 12454, 13354, 11443 or 14333 as
defined by Specification D1784.
2.5 ASQ Standard:
4.3.2 CPVC materials shall meet the minimum require-
ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 Sampling Procedures and Tables for In-
ments for a cell-classification of 23447 or 23448 as defined in
spection by Attributes
Specification D1784.
4.4 Rework Material— The manufacturers shall use only
The last approved version of this historical standard is referenced on www.ast-
their own clean rework fitting material and the fittings pro-
m.org.
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME
duced shall meet the requirements of this specification. Mate-
International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
rials containing contaminants from other base materials or
www.asme.org.
6 elastomerics shall not be used in the manufacture of fittings or
Available from NSF International, P.O. Box 130140, 789 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann
appurtenances under this specification.
Arbor, MI 48105, http://www.nsf.org.
Available from International Society of Automation (ISA), 67 T.W. Alexander
Drive, PO Box 12277, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, https://www.isa.org.
5. Requirements
Available from American Society for Quality (ASQ), 600 N. Plankinton Ave.,
Milwaukee, WI 53203, http://www.asq.org. 5.1 Dimensions:
F1970 − 23
5.1.1 Seal Dimensions— Seal dimensions shall be in accor- 5.4 Joint Tightness— Fittings utilizing push-on joints with
dance with the manufacturer’s standard design dimensions and elastomeric seals shall not leak or fail when tested in accor-
tolerances. The seal shall be designed to provide an adequate dance with 8.3.
compressive force against the mating parts after assembly to
6. Workmanship, Finish, and Appearance
effect a positive seal under all combinations of permitted fitting
and seal tolerances. 6.1 The requirements of this section are verified by visual
5.1.2 Solvent-Weld Connections—Sockets shall comply
(non-magnified) inspection of the components and surfaces.
with the fittings dimensions applicable to the size of pipe being
6.2 All surfaces of the fitting or assembly against which a
joined. Dimensioning of sockets shall be conducted in accor-
seal may rest shall be free of imperfections that could adversely
dance with 8.2.
affect the performance of the fitting or assembly.
5.1.2.1 Socket connections for solvent-weld to IPS pipe
6.3 The surfaces of all thermoplastic and metallic compo-
shall comply with the socket dimensions given in Specification
nents shall be free from defects which will adversely affect the
D2467 for Sch 80 PVC, Specification D2466 for Sch 40 PVC,
performance and service of the fitting or assembly.
Specification F439 for Sch 80 CPVC or Specification F438 for
Sch 40 CPVC.
6.4 The thermoplastic materials, after molding or
5.1.2.2 Socket connections for solvent-weld to CTS pipe fabrication, shall be as uniform as commercially practical in
shall comply with the socket dimensions given in D2846/
color and opacity.
D2846M.
7. Sample Conditioning
5.1.3 Threaded Connections—For all thermoplastic compo-
nents having taper pipe threads, thermoplastic threads shall
7.1 For referee testing, all samples shall be conditioned at
conform to Specification F1498 and be gaged in accordance
73 °F 6 3.6 °F (23 °C 6 2 °C) for not less than 40 h
with 8.2.2. The tolerance on thermoplastic threads, when
immediately preceding testing.
measured using gages, shall
...

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: F1970 − 22 F1970 − 23 An American National Standard
Standard Specification for
Special Engineered Fittings, Appurtenances or Valves for
use in Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) or Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl
Chloride) (CPVC) Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F1970; 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 covers fittings, appurtenances and valves which are to be used with pipe and tubing complying with
Specifications D1785, D2241, D2846/D2846M, F441/F441M or F442/F442M, or other piping as specified by the fittings
manufacturer. These products, such as unions, flanges or valves, are not included in the scope of existing ASTM specifications.
This specification includes minimum requirements for testing, materials, dimensions, workmanship, marking, and in-plant quality
control.
1.2 Fittings or appurtenances covered by this specification are generally either molded, fabricated, or assembled from molded or
machined components. The materials used in components include rigid thermoplastics, thermoplastic elastomers, elastomerics, and
metals. The body or main portion of the fitting, appurtenance or valve is typically PVC, CPVC, PE or PA (nylon). All products
covered by this standard are intended to be used in PVC or CPVC plastic piping systems, or as a transition from these to metal
systems.
1.3 The application of these products to gas service is beyond the scope of this specification.
1.4 The products covered by this specification are intended for use with the distribution of pressurized liquids only, which are
chemically compatible with the piping materials. Due to inherent hazards associated with testing components and systems with
compressed air or other compressed gases some manufacturers do not allow pneumatic testing of their products. Consult with
specific product/component manufacturers for their specific testing procedures prior to pneumatic testing.
NOTE 1—Warning: Pressurized (compressed) air or other compressed gases contain large amounts of stored energy which present serious safety which
present serious safety hazards should a system fail for any reason.
1.5 Fittings which rely on heat fusion welding for connection to the piping system are outside the scope of this specification.
1.6 Check valves (including foot valves) covered by this specification shall not be considered backflow prevention devices and
shall not be used for the protection of a potable water supply. For definitions and requirements of backflow prevention devices,
consult model plumbing codes and ASSE.
1.7 Due to the complex and installation-specific concerns surrounding chemical resistance and corrosion, this specification does
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F17 on Plastic Piping Systems and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F17.10
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2022Feb. 15, 2023. Published October 2022March 2023. Originally approved in 1999. Last previous edition approved in 20192022 as
F1970–19. DOI: 10.1520/F1970-22.–22. DOI: 10.1520/F1970-23.
American Society of Sanitary Engineering, 28901 Clemens Rd., Suite 100, Westlake, OH 44145.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F1970 − 23
not address the compatibility of the products with all possible end-use environments. Additional testing specific to the end-use
environment is recommended if the system is conveying liquids other than potable water.
1.8 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.
1.9 The following safety caveat applies only to the test methods and in-plant quality control portions, section 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.
1.10 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:
D1598 Test Method for Time-to-Failure of Plastic Pipe Under Constant Internal Pressure
D1599 Test Method for Resistance to Short-Time Hydraulic Pressure of Plastic Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings
D1600 Terminology for Abbreviated Terms Relating to Plastics
D1784 Classification System and Basis for Specification for Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Compounds and Chlorinated
Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Compounds
D1785 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40, 80, and 120
D1898 Practice for Sampling of Plastics (Withdrawn 1998)
D2000 Classification System for Rubber Products in Automotive Applications
D2122 Test Method for Determining Dimensions of Thermoplastic Pipe and Fittings
D2241 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pressure-Rated Pipe (SDR Series)
D2466 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40
D2467 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80
D2846/D2846M Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Hot- and Cold-Water Distribution Systems
F412 Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems
F438 Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40
F439 Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80
F441/F441M Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40 and 80
F442/F442M Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR–PR)
F477 Specification for Elastomeric Seals (Gaskets) for Joining Plastic Pipe
F1498 Specification for Taper Pipe Threads 60° for Thermoplastic Pipe and Fittings
2.2 ASME Standards:
B1.20.1 Pipe Threads, General Purpose (Inch)
B16.5 Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings
2.3 NSF Standards:
NSF 14 Plastics Piping Components and Related Materials
NSF 61 Drinking Water System Components - Health Effects
2.4 ISA Standard:
ISA S75.02 Control Valve Capacity Test Procedure
2.5 ASQ Standard:
ANSI/ASQ Z1.4 Sampling Procedures and Tables for Inspection by Attributes
3. Terminology
3.1 General—Definitions are in accordance with the Definitions in F412 and abbreviations are in accordance with D1600 unless
otherwise specified.
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volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
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Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org.
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Available from International Society of Automation (ISA), 67 T.W. Alexander Drive, PO Box 12277, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, https://www.isa.org.
Available from American Society for Quality (ASQ), 600 N. Plankinton Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53203, http://www.asq.org.
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3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.2.1 activation pressure—the activation pressure of a check valve is that inlet pressure, exceeding the outlet pressure, required
to open the check valve and allow water to flow.
3.2.1 appurtenances—accessories of a plastic piping system designed for special applications or end-uses. Appurtenances may
include, but are not limited to pipes, fittings, valves, storage tanks, mechanical devices and expansion tanks.
3.2.2 connections—the portion of the fitting intended to join the fitting with the rest of the piping system (see 5.1).
3.2.3 CTS—abbreviation for “copper tube size”, indicating an outside-diameter controlled tubing with outside diameter
dimensions meeting the tube specifications given in Specification D2846/D2846M.
3.2.4 IPS—abbreviation for “iron pipe size”, indicating an outside-diameter controlled tubing with outside diameter dimensions
meeting the requirements of schedule 40 pipe (see Specification D1785 for dimensions of schedule 40 pipe).
3.2.5 lot size—the total number of completely finished fittings or appurtenances that are manufactured under conditions of
production that are considered uniform.
3.2.6 referee test—testing conducted to compare performance of the product against all requirements of this specification. In-plant
QC testing is not considered referee testing.
4. Materials and Manufacture
4.1 The elastomeric seals designed for push-on joints, which require no internal or external pressure to effect the initial seal, shall
comply with the requirements of Specification F477, Table 1 for thermoset, Table 2 for thermoplastic.
4.2 All other elastomeric seals shall be designed to meet the product performance requirements stated within this document and
be specified in accordance with Classification D2000.
4.3 Materials used in components which provide structural integrity of the fitting or appurtenance shall meet the requirements of
4.3.1, 4.3.2, or 4.4.
NOTE 2—Components which provide structural integrity include the body; connections such as sockets, compression joint components, saddles, and
flanges.
4.3.1 PVC materials shall meet the minimum requirements for a cell-classification of 12454, 13354, 11443 or 14333 as defined
by Specification D1784.
4.3.2 CPVC materials shall meet the minimum requirements for a cell-classification of 23447 or 23448 as defined in Specification
D1784.
4.4 Rework Material— The manufacturers shall use only their own clean rework fitting material and the fittings produced shall
meet the requirements of this specification. Materials containing contaminants from other base materials or elastomerics shall not
be used in the manufacture of fittings or appurtenances under this specification.
5. Requirements
5.1 Dimensions:
5.1.1 Seal Dimensions— Seal dimensions shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s standard design dimensions and
tolerances. The seal shall be designed to provide an adequate compressive force against the mating parts after assembly to effect
a positive seal under all combinations of permitted fitting and seal tolerances.
5.1.2 Solvent-Weld Connections—Sockets shall comply with the fittings dimensions applicable to the size of pipe being joined.
Dimensioning of sockets shall be conducted in accordance with 8.2.
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5.1.2.1 Socket connections for solvent-weld to IPS pipe shall comply with the socket dimensions given in Specification D2467
for Sch 80 PVC, Specification D2466 for Sch 40 PVC, Specification F439 for Sch 80 CPVC or Specification F438 for Sch 40
CPVC.
5.1.2.2 Socket connections for solvent-weld to CTS pipe shall comply with the socket dimensions given in D2846/D2846M.
5.1.3 Threaded Connections—For all thermoplastic components having taper pipe threads, thermoplastic threads shall conform to
Specification F1498 and be gaged in accordance with 8.2.2. The tolerance on thermoplastic threads, when measured using gages,
shall be 61.5 turns. For all metallic components having taper pipe threads, threads shall conform to ANSI/ASME B1.20.1. The
tolerance on metallic threads when measured using gages shall be 61 turn.
5.1.4 Flange Connections—Flanges and flange-connections on assemblies shall meet the bolt-pattern requirements of ANSI/
ASME B16.5.
5.1.5 Spigot Connections—Spigot ends of fittings shall meet the requirements for average outside diameter, out-of-roundness and
minimum wall thickness of the corresponding pipe.
5.1.6 Other dimensions shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s standard dimensions and tolerances.
5.2 Internal Pressure Tests—Fittings shall meet the minimum requirements for resistance to hydrostatic pressure when assembled
according to manufacturer’s instructions and tested in accordance with 8.2.
5.2.1 Valves—Valves shall be tested in both the open (shell test) and shut-off (seat test) configurations for compliance with this
section. Valves without a specified flow direction shall be tested in shut-off position from each possible flow direction. For
operating (test) temperatures above 145 °F (63 °C), the 1000 h test on the valves shall be conducted only in the open (shell test)
configuration.
5.2.2 Blind Flanges— Blind flanges shall be tested in addition to any other flange configurations for
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