ASTM C1719-11(2017)
(Test Method)Standard Test Method for Installed Precast Concrete Tanks and Accessories by the Negative Air Pressure (Vacuum) Test Prior to Backfill
Standard Test Method for Installed Precast Concrete Tanks and Accessories by the Negative Air Pressure (Vacuum) Test Prior to Backfill
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 This is not a routine test. The values recorded are applicable only to the tank being tested and at the time of testing. This test is intended only to demonstrate the sealing effectiveness of the installed system. Structural design of the tank is defined or demonstrated within the scope of other applicable specifications and test methods, including Specification C1227.
SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers procedures for testing precast concrete tanks (and installed accessories) used for on-site wastewater treatment, grease interception, grit/oil separation, water storage, or other applications requiring watertight construction and installation. This test method uses partial vacuum to demonstrate the integrity of the installed materials and the construction processes.
1.2 This test method is intended to be used to demonstrate the condition of the installed system (precast concrete tank and accessories) prior to backfill.
1.3 Testing of the system before backfill is necessary so as to preclude inadvertent structural overloading of the system components during the test.
Note 1: Vacuum test criteria presented in this test method are similar to those in general use. The test and criteria have been widely and successfully used in testing manholes as specified in Test Method C1244.
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 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.6 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-May-2017
- Technical Committee
- C27 - Precast Concrete Products
- Drafting Committee
- C27.30 - Water and Wastewater Containers
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2017
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2018
- Effective Date
- 15-Dec-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Feb-2013
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-Dec-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2010
- Effective Date
- 15-Apr-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2009
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2008
- Effective Date
- 02-Jul-2008
- Effective Date
- 15-Jan-2008
- Effective Date
- 15-Oct-2007
Overview
ASTM C1719-11(2017), titled Standard Test Method for Installed Precast Concrete Tanks and Accessories by the Negative Air Pressure (Vacuum) Test Prior to Backfill, establishes a procedure for ensuring the sealing effectiveness of precast concrete tanks and their accessories by performing a vacuum test before backfilling. This test method is essential for confirming the integrity of tanks designed for on-site wastewater treatment, grease interception, grit/oil separation, water storage, and similar applications requiring watertight construction and reliable installation.
This standard is not intended for routine testing, but rather to demonstrate the condition of the installed system at the time of testing. The structural aspects of the tank are covered by separate specifications such as ASTM C1227.
Key Topics
Test Purpose and Application
- Designed to verify the integrity and watertightness of installed precast concrete tanks and accessories.
- Utilizes negative air pressure (vacuum) testing to ensure the system is properly sealed before backfill.
Test Method Summary
- The test evaluates installed tanks in their final position, with all accessories and pipes in place and temporarily plugged.
- A vacuum is drawn and sustained for a specified period to check the system’s ability to maintain negative pressure, indicating effective sealing.
Non-Destructive Pre-Backfill Verification
- Testing before backfill is critical to avoid applying unnecessary structural loads during the vacuum test and to facilitate repairs if leaks are detected.
Reporting and Documentation
- Requires clear documentation of test conditions, results, and equipment calibration. Reports must be made available to the system owner and retained by those performing the test.
Safety and Limitations
- Users are responsible for addressing site-specific safety and regulatory concerns.
- The standard provides criteria in inch-pound units; metric equivalents are informational only.
Applications
Implementing ASTM C1719-11(2017) provides several practical benefits across industries that rely on durable, water-tight concrete systems:
- On-Site Wastewater Treatment: Ensures that septic tanks and treatment systems meet watertightness requirements essential for environmental compliance and public health.
- Grease and Oil Interception: Validates the installation quality of tanks used for separating harmful contaminants from wastewater in commercial kitchens and industrial facilities.
- Grit/Oil Separation and Water Storage: Confirms the integrity of tanks used to store water or separate inorganic materials, preventing contamination or leakage.
- Regulatory Compliance: Provides a recognized method to demonstrate that new installations meet local or national code requirements for watertight construction.
- Construction Quality Assurance: Offers builders, inspectors, and facility owners objective proof of proper installation prior to backfilling, reducing the risk of costly future repairs.
Related Standards
For comprehensive quality assurance and interoperability within precast concrete systems, ASTM C1719-11(2017) is commonly referenced alongside:
- ASTM C1227: Specification for Precast Concrete Septic Tanks, addressing structural requirements and manufacturing practices.
- ASTM C1244: Standard Test Method for Concrete Sewer Manholes by the Negative Air Pressure (Vacuum) Test Prior to Backfill, with test procedures similar to those used in C1719.
- ASTM C822: Terminology Relating to Concrete Pipe and Related Products, providing definitions for commonly used terms.
By following ASTM C1719-11(2017), industry professionals ensure that installed precast concrete tanks and accessories achieve reliable, watertight performance in critical infrastructure applications.
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM C1719-11(2017) is a standard published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Test Method for Installed Precast Concrete Tanks and Accessories by the Negative Air Pressure (Vacuum) Test Prior to Backfill". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 This is not a routine test. The values recorded are applicable only to the tank being tested and at the time of testing. This test is intended only to demonstrate the sealing effectiveness of the installed system. Structural design of the tank is defined or demonstrated within the scope of other applicable specifications and test methods, including Specification C1227. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers procedures for testing precast concrete tanks (and installed accessories) used for on-site wastewater treatment, grease interception, grit/oil separation, water storage, or other applications requiring watertight construction and installation. This test method uses partial vacuum to demonstrate the integrity of the installed materials and the construction processes. 1.2 This test method is intended to be used to demonstrate the condition of the installed system (precast concrete tank and accessories) prior to backfill. 1.3 Testing of the system before backfill is necessary so as to preclude inadvertent structural overloading of the system components during the test. Note 1: Vacuum test criteria presented in this test method are similar to those in general use. The test and criteria have been widely and successfully used in testing manholes as specified in Test Method C1244. 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 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 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.
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 5.1 This is not a routine test. The values recorded are applicable only to the tank being tested and at the time of testing. This test is intended only to demonstrate the sealing effectiveness of the installed system. Structural design of the tank is defined or demonstrated within the scope of other applicable specifications and test methods, including Specification C1227. SCOPE 1.1 This test method covers procedures for testing precast concrete tanks (and installed accessories) used for on-site wastewater treatment, grease interception, grit/oil separation, water storage, or other applications requiring watertight construction and installation. This test method uses partial vacuum to demonstrate the integrity of the installed materials and the construction processes. 1.2 This test method is intended to be used to demonstrate the condition of the installed system (precast concrete tank and accessories) prior to backfill. 1.3 Testing of the system before backfill is necessary so as to preclude inadvertent structural overloading of the system components during the test. Note 1: Vacuum test criteria presented in this test method are similar to those in general use. The test and criteria have been widely and successfully used in testing manholes as specified in Test Method C1244. 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 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.6 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.
ASTM C1719-11(2017) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 91.100.30 - Concrete and concrete products. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM C1719-11(2017) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM C1719-11, ASTM C822-18, ASTM C1227-13, ASTM C822-13, ASTM C1227-12, ASTM C822-11, ASTM C1244-11, ASTM C822-10, ASTM C1227-10a, ASTM C1227-10, ASTM C1227-09, ASTM C822-08b, ASTM C822-08a, ASTM C1227-08, ASTM C1227-07c. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM C1719-11(2017) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
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:C1719 −11 (Reapproved 2017)
Standard Test Method for
Installed Precast Concrete Tanks and Accessories by the
Negative Air Pressure (Vacuum) Test Prior to Backfill
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1719; 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 2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
1.1 This test method covers procedures for testing precast
C822 Terminology Relating to Concrete Pipe and Related
concrete tanks (and installed accessories) used for on-site
Products
wastewater treatment, grease interception, grit/oil separation,
C1227 Specification for Precast Concrete Septic Tanks
water storage, or other applications requiring watertight con-
C1244 Test Method for Concrete Sewer Manholes by the
struction and installation.This test method uses partial vacuum
Negative Air Pressure (Vacuum) Test Prior to Backfill
to demonstrate the integrity of the installed materials and the
construction processes.
3. Terminology
1.2 This test method is intended to be used to demonstrate 3.1 For definitions of terms relating to tanks, see Terminol-
the condition of the installed system (precast concrete tank and ogy C822.
accessories) prior to backfill.
4. Summary of Test Method
1.3 Testing of the system before backfill is necessary so as
4.1 The tank shall be set in its installed position. Required
to preclude inadvertent structural overloading of the system
accessories and pipes shall be installed.All openings and pipes
components during the test.
entering the tank shall be plugged. A vacuum shall be drawn
NOTE 1—Vacuum test criteria presented in this test method are similar
and vacuum retention over a specified time period is used to
to those in general use. The test and criteria have been widely and
determine the acceptability of the tank and installed accesso-
successfully used in testing manholes as specified in Test Method C1244.
ries.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded
5. Significance and Use
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
5.1 This is not a routine test. The values recorded are
and are not considered standard.
applicable only to the tank being tested and at the time of
testing. This test is intended only to demonstrate the sealing
1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the
effectiveness of the installed system. Structural design of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
tank is defined or demonstrated within the scope of other
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
applicable specifications and test methods, including Specifi-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
cation C1227.
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
6. Equipment Required
1.6 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
6.1 A vacuum device is required and shall be capable of
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
reliably drawing the required vacuum. Suitable vacuum de-
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
vices include vane- and venturi-type pumps, vehicle vacuum
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
systems, and high-performance shop-style vacuum cleaners.
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
6.2 A vacuum measuring device is required and shall be a
vacuum gauge, mercury manometer, or water manometer
accurate to 0.1 in. (2.5 mm) Hg [1.4 in. (35 mm) H O]. If a
This test method is under the jurisdiction ofASTM Committee C27 on Precast
Concrete Products and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C27.30 on Water
and Wastewater Containers. For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
CurrenteditionapprovedJune1,2017.PublishedJuly2017.Originallyapproved contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
in 2011. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as C1719 – 11. DOI: 10.1520/ Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
C17
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