BS EN 12842:2012
Incorporating corrigenda
October
2013
and November
Incorporating
October 2015
2013
BS
ENcorrigendum
12842:2012

BSI Standards Publication

Ductile iron fittings for
PVC-U or PE piping
systems — Requirements
and test methods


BS EN 12842:2012

BRITISH STANDARD
National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 12842:2012. It
supersedes BS EN 12842:2000 which is withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee PSE/10, Iron pipes and fittings.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be obtained
on request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions

of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
© The British Standards Institution 2015.
Published by BSI Standards Limited 2015
ISBN 978 0 580 92366 1
ICS 23.040.40

Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
This British Standard was published under the authority of the Standards
Policy and Strategy Committee on 31 May 2013.

Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication
Date

Text affected

31 October 2013

National Annex added

30 November 2015Implementation of CEN correction notice
26 September 2012: Figure 3 key and subclause 7.1.2
modified


BS EN 12842:2012

EN 12842

EUROPEAN STANDARD

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM

August 2012

ICS 23.040.40

Supersedes EN 12842:2000

English Version

Ductile iron fittings for PVC-U or PE piping systems Requirements and test methods
Raccords en fonte ductile pour systèmes de canalisations
en PVC-U ou en PE - Prescriptions et méthodes d'essai

Duktile Gussformstücke für PVC-U oder PERohrleitungssyteme - Anforderungen und Prüfverfahren

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 23 June 2012.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the same
status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United
Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels

© 2012 CEN

All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Ref. No. EN 12842:2012: E


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

Contents

Page

Foreword ..............................................................................................................................................................3
1

Scope ......................................................................................................................................................4

2

Normative references ............................................................................................................................5

3


Terms and definitions ...........................................................................................................................5

4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6

Technical requirements ........................................................................................................................8
General ....................................................................................................................................................8
Dimensional requirements ................................................................................................................. 10
Material characteristics ...................................................................................................................... 12
Coatings ............................................................................................................................................... 13
Marking ................................................................................................................................................ 14
Leak tightness ..................................................................................................................................... 14

5
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4

Performance requirements for joints................................................................................................ 14
General ................................................................................................................................................. 14
Leak tightness of flexible joints ........................................................................................................ 15
Long term hydrostatic strength test ................................................................................................. 17
Flanged joints...................................................................................................................................... 19


6
6.1
6.2
6.3

Test methods....................................................................................................................................... 19
Tensile testing for ductile iron .......................................................................................................... 19
Brinell hardness for ductile iron ....................................................................................................... 20
Works leak tightness test .................................................................................................................. 21

7
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6

Performance tests............................................................................................................................... 21
Leak tightness of joints to internal hydrostatic pressure .............................................................. 21
Leak tightness of joints to negative internal pressure ................................................................... 23
Leak tightness of joints to dynamic internal pressure ................................................................... 24
Long term hydrostatic strength test for joints of fittings for PE pipes ......................................... 24
Pull out test at 25 ºC for restrained joints for PE pipes .................................................................. 25
Long term hydrostatic strength test for joints of fittings for PVC-U pipe .................................... 25

8
8.1
8.2

8.3

Tables of dimensions ......................................................................................................................... 26
Dimensions of sockets for push-in flexible joints........................................................................... 26
Dimensions of sockets for mechanical flexible joints .................................................................... 28
Dimensions of fittings ........................................................................................................................ 29

9
9.1
9.2
9.3

Evaluation of conformity .................................................................................................................... 44
General ................................................................................................................................................. 44
Initial performance testing ................................................................................................................. 45
Factory production control (FPC) ..................................................................................................... 46

Bibliography ..................................................................................................................................................... 49

2


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

Foreword
This document (EN 12842:2012) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 203 “Cast iron pipes,
fittings and their joints”, the secretariat of which is held by AFNOR.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical
text or by endorsement, at the latest by February 2013, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn

at the latest by February 2013.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN 12842:2000.
The significant changes made since the previous version are as follows:
a)

Wording (relating to accessories, fittings, coupling and flange adaptor) modified in accordance with
EN 545;

b)

Improvement of shear load test for flange adapter and one socket fitting;

c)

Addition of aging test for PE pipe fittings and accessories.

This European Standard was prepared in co-operation with CEN/TC 155 "Plastics piping systems".
This standard is in conformity with the general requirements already established by CEN/TC 164 in the field of
water supply.
In respect of potential adverse effects on the quality of water intended for human consumption caused by the
product covered by this standard:


this standard provides no information as to whether the product may be used without restriction in any of
the member states of the EU or EFTA;




it should be noted that, while awaiting the adoption of verifiable European criteria, existing national
regulations concerning the use and/or the characteristics of these products remain in force.

According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece,
Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

3


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

1

Scope

This European Standard specifies the requirements and associated test methods applicable to ductile iron
fittings, ductile iron and mild steel couplings and flange adaptors and their joints to be used with poly(vinyl
chloride) (PVC-U) pipes or polyethylene (PE) pipes. It is in conformity with EN 1452-1 to -5, ENV 1452-6 and 7 and EN 12201-1 to -5 respectively, for the construction of pipelines:


to convey water (e.g. water intended for human consumption);



with or without pressure;




to be installed below or above ground, inside or outside buildings.

This European Standard is not intended to cover sewerage applications, where additional requirements may
be necessary.
This European Standard is applicable to fittings which are:


manufactured with socketed, flanged or spigot ends;



supplied externally and internally coated;



suitable for PE and PVC-U pipes with fluid temperatures between 0°C and 25°C, excluding frost, and for
pressures up to 16 bar (PFA). For higher temperatures (up to 45°C for PVC-U or 40°C for PE) the PFA is
derated as given in EN 1452 and EN 12201;



not intended for use in areas subjected to reaction to fire regulations.

NOTE 1
This does not preclude special arrangements for the products to be used at higher temperatures. Temperature
limitations and pressure limitations are those coming from the PVC-U or PE pipes.

This European Standard covers ductile iron fittings, couplings and flange adaptors cast by any type of foundry

process or manufactured by fabrication of cast components, as well as corresponding joints, in a size range
extending from DN 60 to DN 700, to be used with pipes of external diameter from 63 mm to 710 mm.
As long as no equivalent European Standard exists for mild steel accessories, this European Standard also
covers couplings and flange adaptors for use with PVC-U and PE pipes which are fabricated partly or entirely
from mild steel as well as corresponding joints, in a size range extending from DN 60 to DN 700, to be used
with pipes of external diameter from 63 mm to 710 mm.
This European Standard specifies requirements for materials, dimensions and tolerances, mechanical
properties and standard coatings. It also gives minimum performance requirements for all components,
including restrained and non-restrained flexible joints. Joint design and gasket shapes are outside the scope
of this standard.
This European Standard does not cover fittings, couplings and flange adaptors intended to be used with
different pipe materials other than PVC-U and PE.
NOTE 2
Fittings, couplings and flange adaptors complying with the requirements of this European Standard for PVC-U
also usually meet the requirements for PVC-O and PVC-A pipes. Where this is not the case, the manufacturer is expected
to declare this in the relevant literature.
NOTE 3

4

In this European Standard, all pressures are relative pressures, expressed in bars (100 kPa = 1 bar).


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

2

Normative references


The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 681-1, Elastomeric seals  Material requirements for pipe joint seals used in water and drainage
applications  Part 1: Vulcanised rubber
EN 805:2000, Water supply  Requirements for systems and components outside buildings
EN 1092-2, Flanges and their joints  Circular flanges for pipes, valves, fittings and accessories, PN
designated  Part 2: Cast iron flanges
EN 10025-1:2004, Hot rolled products of structural steels  General technical delivery conditions
EN 10310, Steel tubes and fittings for onshore and offshore pipelines  Internal and external polyamide
powder based coatings
EN 14901, Ductile iron pipes, fittings and accessories  Epoxy coating (heavy duty) of ductile iron fittings and
accessories – Requirements and test methods
EN 15189, Ductile iron pipes, fittings and accessories  External polyurethane coating for pipes 
Requirements and test methods
EN 15655, Ductile iron pipes, fittings and accessories  Internal polyurethane lining for pipes and fittings 
Requirements and test methods
EN ISO 1167-1:2006, Thermoplastics pipes, fittings and assemblies for the conveyance of fluids 
Determination of the resistance to internal pressure  Part 1: General method (ISO 1167-1:2006)
EN ISO 4016, Hexagon head bolts  Product grade C (ISO 4016)
EN ISO 4034, Hexagon nuts  Product grade C (ISO 4034)
EN ISO 6506-1, Metallic materials  Brinell hardness test  Part1: Test method (ISO 6506-1)
EN ISO 7091, Plain washers  Normal series  Product grade C (ISO 7091)
EN ISO 9001:2008, Quality management systems  Requirements (ISO 9001:2008)
EN ISO 13846:2000, Plastic piping systems  End-load-bearing and non-end-load-bearing assemblies and
joints for thermoplastics pressure piping  Test method for long-term leaktightness under internal water
pressure (ISO 13846:2000)

3


Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
3.1
ductile iron
cast iron used for fittings in which graphite is present substantially in spheroïdal form
3.2
fitting
casting other than a pipe which allows pipeline deviation, change of direction or bore

5


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

[SOURCE: EN 545]
3.3
flange
end of a fitting or flange adaptor extending perpendicular to its axis, with bolt holes equally spaced on a circle
Note 1 to entry:
A flange can be fixed (e.g. integrally cast or welded) or adjustable; an adjustable flange comprises a
ring, in one or several parts assembled together, which bears on an end joint hub and can be freely rotated around the
axis before jointing.

3.4
spigot
male end of a pipe or fitting
3.5
socket

female end of a pipe or fitting to make the connection with the spigot of the next component
3.6
gasket
sealing component of a joint
3.7
joint
connection between the ends of two components in which a gasket is used to effect a seal
3.8
flexible joint
joint which permits significant angular deflection both during and after installation and which can accept a
slight offset of the centreline
3.9
push-in flexible joint
flexible joint assembled by pushing the spigot through the gasket in the socket of the mating component
3.10
mechanical flexible joint
flexible joint in which sealing is obtained by applying pressure to the gasket by mechanical means, e.g. a
gland
3.11
restrained flexible joint
flexible joint in which a means is provided to prevent separation of the assembled joint
3.12
flanged joint
joint between two flanged ends
3.13
nominal size
DN/OD
alphanumeric designation of size for components of a pipework system, which is used for reference purposes
Note 1 to entry:
It comprises the letters DN followed by a dimensionless whole number which is indirectly related to the

physical size, in millimetres, of the bore or outside diameter of the end connections.
Note 2 to entry:

Adapted from EN ISO 6708:1995, definition 2.1.

Note 3 to entry:

Plastic pipes are only defined as DN/OD.

6


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

3.14
nominal outside diameter (dn)
specified outside diameter, in millimetres, assigned to a nominal size DN/OD
[SOURCE: EN 12201-1]
3.15
minimum socket inside diameter (di min)
minimum value of the internal diameter of the socket mouth
3.16
nominal pressure PN
alphanumerical designation, which comprises a convenient rounded number used for reference purposes
Note 1 to entry:
dimensions.

All components of the same nominal size, DN, designated by the same PN have compatible mating


Note 2 to entry:

Adapted from EN 1333:2006.

Note 3 to entry:

In EN 1452 and EN 12201, the term nominal pressure (PN) at 20°C is used in place of PFA.

3.17
allowable operating pressure (PFA)
maximum hydrostatic pressure that a component is capable of withstanding continuously in service
[SOURCE: EN 805:2000]
Note 1 to entry:

In EN 1452 and EN 12201, the term nominal pressure (PN) at 20°C is used in place of PFA.

3.18
leak tightness test pressure
pressure applied to a component during manufacture in order to ensure its leak tightness
3.19
allowable maximum operating pressure (PMA)
maximum pressure occurring from time to time, including surge, that a component is capable of withstanding
in service
[SOURCE: EN 805:2000]
3.20
allowable test pressure (PEA)
maximum hydrostatic pressure that a newly installed component is capable of withstanding for a relatively
short duration, in order to ensure the integrity and tightness of the pipeline
[SOURCE: EN 805:2000]
Note 1 to entry:

This test pressure is different from the system test pressure (STP), which is related to the design
pressure of the pipeline and is intended to ensure its integrity and leak tightness.

3.21
batch
quantity of castings from which a sample is taken for testing purposes during manufacture
3.22
performance test
proof of design test which is done once and is repeated only after change of design

7


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

3.23
length
effective length of a fitting, as shown on the figures of Clause 8
Note 1 to entry:
For flanged fittings, the effective length L (l for branches) is equal to the overall length. For socketed
fittings, the effective length is designated Z in plastics piping systems standards and Lu (lu for branches) in EN 545; it is
equal to the overall length minus the spigot insertion depth as given in the manufacturer's catalogues.

3.24
flange adaptor
accessory which:


is used in a pipeline to make the connection with a spigot of a pipe or fitting and the flange of another

component of the pipeline (e.g. pipe, fitting, valve etc.); and



allows for angular and axial displacements for unrestrained joints and angular displacements for
restrained flexible joints

Note 1 to entry:
assembly.

Some flange adaptors are designed such that they can be slid over the pipes in order to facilitate easy

Note 2 to entry:

As defined in EN 545, Flange Adaptors are accessories.

3.25
coupling
accessory which:


is used in a pipeline to make the connection between two spigots of pipes, fittings or valves, etc.; and



allows for angular and axial displacements for unrestrained joints and angular displacements for
restrained flexible joints

Note 1 to entry:
assembly.


Some couplings are designed such that they can be slid over the pipes in order to facilitate easy

Note 2 to entry:

As defined in EN 545, Couplings are accessories.

4

Technical requirements

4.1
4.1.1

General
Fittings

Nominal sizes, minimum wall thicknesses, lengths and coatings are specified in 4.1.2, 4.2.1/4.2.2, 4.2.3 and
4.4 respectively. When, for specific needs, fittings with different lengths and/or coatings and other types of
fittings than those given in Clause 8 are supplied with reference to this standard, they shall comply with all
other requirements of this standard.
4.1.2

Standardized sizes

The standardised sizes of fittings, corresponding to the nominal outside diameter dn (in millimetres) of the
pipes to which they shall be connected, are as follows: 63, 75, 90, 110, 125, 140, 160, 180, 200, 225, 250,
280, 315, 355, 400, 450, 500, 560, 630, 710.

8



BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

4.1.3

Surface condition and repairs

Fittings, couplings and flange adaptors shall be free from defects and surface imperfections which could lead
to non-compliance with Clauses 4 and 5.
When necessary, fittings, couplings and flange adaptors may be repaired, for example by welding, in order to
remove surface imperfections and localised defects which do not extend through the entire wall thickness,
provided that:


the repairs are carried out according to the manufacturer’s written procedure;



the repaired products comply with all the requirements of Clauses 4 and 5.

4.1.4
4.1.4.1

Types of joints and interconnection
General

Rubber gasket materials shall comply with the requirements of EN 681-1 for the type WA. When materials
other than rubber are necessary (e.g. for high temperature flanged joints), they shall comply with the

appropriate European Technical Specification or, where no European Technical Specification exists, the
appropriate International Standard.
4.1.4.2

Flexible joints

The dimensions of sockets for push-in and mechanical, restrained and non-restrained flexible joints shall
comply with 4.2.4 and with any additional requirements related to the gasket design. This ensures
interconnection between all fittings and all PVC-U and PE pipes.
In addition, each type of flexible joint shall be designed to fulfil the performance requirements of Clause 5.
Taking into account the temperature and pressure effects on PE pipe, all joints intended for use with PE pipe
shall be restrained.
Supporting sleeves (inserts) may be necessary depending on pipe material, on pipe wall thickness, on joint
design and on national requirements; they should provide adequate support over the entire compression area
of the gasket and restraining mechanism.
Where applicable, the minimum thickness of the PE pipes should be declared by the manufacturer of the
fittings.
4.1.4.3

Flanged joints

Flanges shall be designed such that they can be attached to flanges whose dimensions and tolerances
comply with EN 1092-2. This ensures interconnection between all flanged components (pipes, fittings, valves
etc.) of the same PN and DN.
Bolts and nuts shall comply as a minimum with the requirements of EN ISO 4016 and EN ISO 4034, grade
4.6. Where washers are required, they shall comply with EN ISO 7091.
Although it does not affect interconnection, the manufacturer shall state whether his products are normally
delivered with fixed flanges or adjustable flanges.
Flange gaskets may be one of any type given in EN 1514 (all parts).


9


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

4.1.5

Materials in contact with water intended for human consumption

Components of a pipe system include several materials given in this standard. When used under the
conditions for which they are designed, in permanent or in temporary contact with water intended for human
consumption, ductile iron/mild steel fittings and their joints shall not change the quality of that water to such an
extent that it fails to comply with the requirements of national regulations.
For this purpose, reference shall be made to the relevant national regulations and standards, transposing EN
standards when available, dealing with the influence of materials on water quality and to the requirements for
external systems and components as given in EN 805.

4.2
4.2.1

Dimensional requirements
Minimum wall thickness of ductile iron fittings, couplings and flange adaptors

The minimum wall thickness of the ductile iron, at any point, shall be as given in Table 1, provided that the
requirements of 4.3, 4.6 and Clause 7 are complied with.
Table 1 — Minimum wall thickness of ductile iron fittings, couplings and flange adaptors
dn

Minimum wall thickness mm


dn ≤ 225

4

225 < dn ≤ 315

5

315 < dn ≤ 710

6

NOTE
The thickness given in Table 1 is the minimum wall thickness corresponding to the main part of the body. The
actual thickness at any particular point might require to be increased to meet localised high stresses depending on the
shape of the casting (e.g. at internal radius of bends, at the branch-body junction of tees, etc.).

4.2.2

Minimum wall thickness of mild steel couplings and flange adaptors

The minimum wall thickness of the steel, at any point, shall be as given in Table 2, provided that the
requirements of 4.3, 4.6 and 7 are complied with.
Table 2 — Minimum wall thickness of mild steel couplings and flange adaptors

dn

Minimum wall thickness
for material grade as

specified in 4.3.2
mm

dn ≤ 315

3

315 < dn ≤ 560

4

560 < dn ≤ 710

5

For higher grade materials, it is permissible to use thicknesses less than those specified in Table 2 with an
absolute minimum of 3mm.
4.2.3

Length

The lengths (see 3.23) of fittings shall be as given in the manufacturers' catalogues taking into account the
minimum lengths given in the tables of Clause 8.

10


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)


4.2.4

Dimensions of sockets

The minimum internal diameter of sockets and the minimum depth of engagement of sockets shall comply
with the values given in Tables 7 and 8.
4.2.5

Jointing gap for couplings and flange adaptors

The manufacturer shall declare his maximum jointing gap for couplings and flange adaptors for PVC-U pipes
(see Figure 1) and it shall not be less than the values given in Table 3.
NOTE
The jointing gap between the pipes or the flange to be connected might be affected by the pipe contraction or
expansion occurring as a result of temperature or pressure change.

Jointing gaps for PE pipes and restrained joints for PVC-U pipes are related to the joint design; the
manufacturer shall declare these where relevant.
The manufacturer shall declare the minimum depth of engagement in the jointing instructions. The minimum
depth of engagement shall be such that the pipes can support the loads imparted by the jointing/anchorage
system.

Key
1

maximum joint gap

2
3


flange adaptor
coupling

Figure 1  Jointing gap for couplings and flange adaptors

11


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

Table 3  Dimensions of jointing gap for non-restrained couplings and flange adaptors for PVC-U
pipes
PVC-U Pipes

4.3

Nominal outside diameter
of pipe

Coupling jointing gap

Flange adaptor jointing gap

dn

mm

mm


63

20

16

75

21

17

90

22

18

110

24

19

125

26

19


140

28

20

160

30

21

180

32

22

200

34

23

225

36

25


250

39

26

280

42

28

315

46

29

355

38

25

400

41

27


450

44

29

500

48

30

560

52

33

630

57

35

710

63

38


Material characteristics

4.3.1
4.3.1.1

Ductile iron
Tensile properties

Ductile iron fittings, couplings and flange adaptors shall have a minimum tensile strength of 420 MPa and a
minimum elongation after fracture of 5 %. The tensile strength shall be tested in accordance with 6.1.
4.3.1.2

Hardness

The Brinell hardness, when measured in accordance with 6.2, shall not exceed 250 HBW. For components
manufactured by welding, a higher Brinell hardness is allowed in the heat-affected zone of the weld.

12


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

4.3.2

Mild steel for couplings and flange adaptors

Mild steel for couplings and flange adaptors shall comply as a minimum with the requirements of
EN 10025-1:2004, grade S275.
4.3.3


Fastener for couplings and flange adaptors

The maximum operating load on a fastener should not be greater than 80% of the yield strength of the
fastener.
Fasteners shall be suitably protected to inhibit corrosion. The following coatings may be supplied:


polymeric (e.g. epoxy/polyamide);



zinc based corrosion protection;



PTFE;



a combination of the above.

4.4

Coatings

4.4.1

General


All fittings, couplings and flange adaptors shall be delivered with an external and internal epoxy coating in
compliance with EN 14901. Alternatively, the following coatings may also be supplied:
a)

External coatings:
1)

polyamide in accordance with EN 10310;

2)

polyurethane in accordance with EN 15189;

3)

enamel1).

b) Internal coatings (linings):
1)

polyamide in accordance with EN 10310;

2)

polyurethane in accordance with EN 15655;

3)

enamel .


1)

These external and internal coatings and their application process shall comply with the corresponding EN
standards or, where no EN standard exists, they shall comply with ISO standards or with national standards
valid in the place of use of the product, or with an agreed technical specification.
All coatings shall be works-applied.

1) Enamel is a glass material containing raw material oxides fully or partly molten in the glass. This non-organic preparation can be laid
in one or more layers on the metal part at a temperature higher than 480°C.

13


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

4.5

Marking

All fittings, couplings and flange adaptors shall be legibly and durably marked and shall bear at least the
following information:
a) a reference to this European Standard (EN 12842);
b) the manufacturer's name or mark;
c) identification of the year of manufacture;
d) the identification of ductile iron or mild steel;
e) the dn and/or the DN as relevant;
f)

the PN rating of flanges for flange components;


g) “PVC” and/or “PE”.
Items b) to f) shall be cast-on or cold stamped. Item a) and g) can be applied by any method e.g. painted on
the castings or attached to the packaging.

4.6

Leak tightness

4.6.1

Fittings, couplings and flange adaptors

Fittings, couplings and flange adaptors shall be leak tight at their allowable test pressure (PEA).
Ductile iron fittings, couplings and flange adaptors shall be tested in accordance with 6.3 and shall exhibit no
visible leakage, sweating or any other sign of failure.
4.6.2

Joints

Joints shall be designed in conformity with Clause 5 in order:
a)

to durably withstand without leakage the allowable maximum operating pressure (PMA) of corresponding
pipes and fittings under all normal service conditions, including foreseeable surge pressures and joint
movements (angular and axial);

b)

to be leak tight under negative internal pressure, which may occur under surge conditions.


5

Performance requirements for joints

5.1

General

In order to ensure the fitness for purpose of the joints in the field of water supply, there shall be a performance
test (see 3.22) for at least one dn for each of the groupings given below:


dn 63 to dn 140 (preferred dn: 110);



dn 160 to dn 315 (preferred dn: 200);



dn 355 to dn 710 (preferred dn: 400).

14


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

One end of a coupling is classified as the joint as long as both ends are to the same design. Where the joint

design for a coupling is the same as a flange adaptor, testing need only be carried out on either coupling or
flange adaptor.
One dn is representative of a grouping when the performances are based on the same design parameters
throughout the size range. Performance tests shall be carried out with PVC-U pipes and with PE pipes when
the joint is meant to be used with either PVC-U pipes or PE pipes.
If a grouping covers products of different designs and/or manufactured by different processes, the grouping
shall be sub-divided.
If for a manufacturer a grouping contains only one dn, this dn shall be tested instead of the preferred dn.

The PFA for a fitting with a flange on one or more sides cannot under any circumstance be higher than the
rating of the flange(s).

5.2

Leak tightness of flexible joints

5.2.1

General

The allowable angular deflection per joint declared by the manufacturer shall be not less than those given in
Table 4.
Table 4 — Allowable angular deflection
Push in joints and
mechanical restrained
joints

Mechanical non-restrained
joints


dn 63 to 315
dn 355 to 630

1,5°
1,0°

3,5°
2,5°

dn 710

0,5°

1,5°

All non-restrained joints shall be designed to provide axial movement; thereby the allowable withdrawal shall
be declared by the manufacturer.
NOTE
This permits the installed pipeline to accommodate ground movements and/or thermal effects without incurring
additional stresses.

The manufacturer shall declare the lowest and the highest pipe pressure class for which the fitting is intended
to be used.
5.2.2

Test conditions

All joint designs shall be performance tested with the lowest and the highest PVC-U and PE pipe pressure
class as declared by the manufacturer. Where supporting sleeves (inserts) are required for joints for PE pipes,
it shall be clearly stated and such supports shall be included in the test assembly. The tests results shall

record the PE grade diameter and SDR rating. The following conditions of tolerance and joint movement are
applicable:
a)

joint of maximum annulus (see 5.2.3.1), aligned, withdrawn to the allowable value declared by the
manufacturer, and subjected to shear (see 5.2.3.2);

b)

joint of maximum annulus (see 5.2.3.1), deflected to the allowable value declared by the manufacturer
(see 5.2.1).

The application of a shear load, as stated in 5.2.2 a), is only required for PVC-U pipes.

15


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

The joints shall exhibit no visible leakage when subjected to the following tests:


test 1: positive internal hydrostatic pressure in accordance with 7.1; the test pressure shall be (1,5 p) bar,
where p is the allowable operating pressure (PFA) of the joint declared by the manufacturer;



test 2: negative internal pressure in accordance with 7.2 of 0,8 bar below atmospheric pressure
(approximately 0,2 bar absolute pressure);




test 3: cyclic internal hydraulic pressure in accordance with 7.3. The test shall comprise at least 24 000
cycles between 0,5p and p, where p is the allowable operating pressure (PFA) of the joint declared by the
manufacturer.

NOTE
The test pressures in test 1 and test 2 and the test durations given in 7.1 and 7.2 are in accordance with, or
slightly more stringent than, the requirements of PVC-U and PE piping systems standards.

Table 5 summarises the test requirements and the test conditions given in 5.2.2, 5.2.3, 5.2.4, 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3.
Table 5 — Summary of test conditions
Test

Test requirements

Test conditions
PVC-U pipes



Positive internal

hydrostatic
pressure


Negative
internal

pressure

test 

joint of maximum annulus, 
deflected

joint of maximum annulus,
deflected



temperature between 15 °C 
and 25 °C

temperature between 15 °C
and 25 °C



joint of maximum annulus, 
aligned, withdrawn, and
subjected to shear load

temperature between 15 °C
and 25 °C

joint of maximum annulus,
aligned and withdrawn


test duration: 2 h
during

temperature between 15 °C
and 25 °C

temperature between 15 °C
and 25 °C

test pressure: - 0,8 bar



test duration: 2 h



maximum pressure change 
during test period: 0,08 bar

joint of maximum annulus, 
deflected

joint of maximum annulus,
deflected



temperature between 15 °C 
and 25 °C


temperature between 15 °C
and 25 °C



joint of maximum annulus, 
aligned,
withdrawn
and
subjected to shear load

temperature between 15 °C
and 25 °C

joint of maximum annulus,
aligned and withdrawn

Cyclic internal
hydraulic
pressure


5.2.3.1

joint of maximum annulus,
aligned and withdrawn






5.2.3

joint of maximum annulus, 
aligned, withdrawn, and
subjected to shear load

temperature between 15 °C
and 25 °C

test pressure: (1,5 x PFA )
bar

no leakage
period

Test conditions
PE pipes

test pressure: between 0,5
PFA and PFA
test period: 24 000 cycles





temperature between 15 °C
and 25 °C


Test parameters
Annulus

All joints shall be performance tested at the extremes of manufacturing tolerance such that the annular gap
between the sealing surfaces of the socket and of the spigot is equal to the maximum design value plus 0 %,

16


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

minus 5 %. It is permissible to machine socket internal surfaces to achieve the required annulus for the
performance test even though the resultant diameter can be slightly outside the normal manufacturing
tolerance.
5.2.3.2

Shear

When applicable, joints shall be performance tested with a resultant shear force across one joint of not less
than 10 x dn in Newton, taking into account the weight of the pipe and of its contents and the geometry of the
test assembly (see 7.1).
5.2.4

Restrained flexible joints

All restrained joint designs shall be performance tested in accordance with 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 following the
requirements of 5.2.2 and 5.2.3 except that:



the withdrawal condition of 5.2.2 a) shall not apply;



there shall be no external axial restraint in positive internal pressure tests so that the joint is subjected to
the full end thrust.

During the positive internal pressure tests, the axial movement shall reach a stable value and cease.
When the restraining mechanism and the sealing component of the restrained joint are independent, such a
joint need not be subjected to test 2 of 5.2.2 if the unrestrained version of the joint has passed this test.

5.3

Long term hydrostatic strength test

5.3.1

PE pipes

This test is applicable to restrained joints for PE pipe.
When tested by the method described in 7.4, the jointed assembly shall not leak nor shall the pipe fracture
when subjected to the test pressures resulting from the stresses given in the following test options:
a)

b)

PE 100 pipes:
2


1)

Temperature 80 °C with a circumferential stress of 5,3 N/mm for 165 h;

2)

Temperature 80 °C with a circumferential stress of 5,0 N/mm for 1 000 h;

3)

Temperature 60 °C with a circumferential stress of 6,8 N/mm for 165 h;

4)

Temperature 60 °C with a circumferential stress of 6,5 N/mm for 1 000 h;

5)

Temperature 50 °C with a circumferential stress of 7,8 N/mm for 165 h;

6)

Temperature 50 °C with a circumferential stress of 7,4 N/mm for 1 000 h.

2
2
2
2
2


PE 80 pipes:
2

1)

Temperature 80 °C with a circumferential stress of 4,3 N/mm for 165 h;

2)

Temperature 80 °C with a circumferential stress of 4,1 N/mm for 1 000 h;

3)

Temperature 60 °C with a circumferential stress of 5,5 N/mm for 165 h;

4)

Temperature 60 °C with a circumferential stress of 5,2 N/mm for 1 000 h;

2
2
2

17


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

2


5)

Temperature 50 °C with a circumferential stress of 6,3 N/mm for 165 h;

6)

Temperature 50 °C with a circumferential stress of 6,0 N/mm for 1 000 h.

2

The pressure to be applied for the options (a) to (f) shall be calculated using the following Formula (1):

 en
P = (20σ )
 d n − en





(1)

where
P

is the test pressure, in bars;

σ


is the circumferential stress to be induced by the test pressure (a) to (f) in 5.3.1, in megapascals;

dn

is the nominal outside diameter of the test piece, in millimetres;

en

is the nominal wall thickness of the free length of the test piece, in millimetres.

If after the test period the sample has not failed, the test shall be discontinued and the sample subjected to the
test as detailed in 5.3.2.
5.3.2

Pull out test at 25 ºC

After having been subjected to the requirements of 5.3.1, the assembly shall be tested by the method
described in 7.5.
The pipe shall not fracture within the jointed assembly. Whilst initial movement of the pipe within the joint is
allowed, no further such movement is permitted after the test loads calculated from Formula (2) has been
attained:
F=

1,2 pπD 2
× 10 − 4
4

(2)

where

F

is the longitudinal test force to be applied, in kilonewtons;

1,2 is the safety factor;
p

is the maximum working pressure (PFA) of the pipe, in bars;

D

is the external diameter, in millimetres.

5.3.3

PVC-U pipes

This test is applicable to both non-restrained and restrained joints for PVC-U pipe.
When tested by the method described in 7.6, the jointed assembly shall not leak at any point of the jointing
areas during the test period when subjected to the test pressure from one of the following test options:
a)

18

Pipe with a design stress of 10 MPa:
1)

Temperature 20ºC for 1000 hours; test pressure = 1,7p

2)


Temperature 40ºC for 1000 hours; test pressure = 1,3p


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

b)

Pipe with a design stress of 12,5 MPa:
1)

Temperature 20 ºC for 1 000 h; test pressure = 1,65p

2)

Temperature 40 ºC for 1 000 h; test pressure = 1,3p

where p is the nominal pressure rating of the pipe/fitting, in bars.

5.4

Flanged joints

The performance of flanged joints is deemed to be satisfactory as long as they comprise two metallic flanges
in accordance with 4.1.4.3.

6

Test methods


6.1
6.1.1

Tensile testing for ductile iron
Samples

The thickness of the sample and the diameter of the test bar shall be as given in Table 6.
At the manufacturer’s discretion, samples shall be either cast integrally with the castings or cast separately. In
the latter case it shall be cast from the same metal as that used for the castings. If the castings are subjected
to heat treatment, the samples shall be subjected to the same heat treatment cycle.
6.1.2

Preparation of test bar

A test bar shall be machined from each sample to be representative of the metal at the mid thickness of the
sample, with a cylindrical part having the diameter given in Table 6.
The test bar shall have a gauge length equal to at least five times the nominal test bar diameter. The ends of
the test bar shall be such that they will fit the testing machine.
The surface roughness profile of the cylindrical part of the test bar shall be such that Rz ≤ 6,3.
If the specified diameter of the test bar is greater than 60 % of the measured minimum thickness of the
sample, it is allowed to machine a test bar with a smaller diameter, or cut another sample in a thicker part of
the fitting.

19


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)


Table 6 — Dimensions of test bar
Type of casting

a)

Integrally cast samples

b)

Separately cast samples:

a

Nominal diameter of
the test bar

Limit deviations on
diameter

Tolerance on
a
shape

mm

mm

mm

5,0


± 0,06

0,03

1)

sample thickness 12,5 mm for casting
thickness less than 12 mm

6,0

± 0,06

0,03

2)

sample thickness 25 mm for casting
thickness 12 mm and over

12,0 or 14,0

± 0,09

0,04

Maximum difference between the smallest and the largest measured diameter of the test bar.

The tensile strength shall be calculated either:



from the nominal diameter of the test bar when it has been machined to fulfil all the tolerances given in
Table 6, or if it is not the case,



from the actual diameter of the test bar measured before the test.

The actual diameter shall be measured using a measuring device having an error limit ≤ 0,5 % and shall be
within ± 10 % of the nominal diameter.
6.1.3

Apparatus and test method

The tensile test shall be carried out in accordance with EN 10002-1.
6.1.4

Test results

Test results shall comply with 4.3.1.1. If they do not comply, the manufacturer shall:
a)

in the case where the metal does not achieve the required mechanical properties, investigate the reason
and ensure that all castings in the batch are either re-heat treated or rejected. Castings which have been
re-heat treated are then re-tested in accordance with 6.1;

b)

in the case of a defect in the test bar, carry out a further test. If it passes, the batch is accepted; if not, the

manufacturer may proceed as in a) above.

The manufacturer may limit the amount of rejection by making tests until the rejected batch of castings is
bracketed, in order of manufacture, by a successful test at each end of the interval in question.

6.2

Brinell hardness for ductile iron

When Brinell hardness tests are carried out (see 4.3.1.2), they shall be performed either on the casting in
dispute or on a sample cut from the casting. The surface to be tested shall be suitably prepared by local
grinding to ensure a flat surface and the test shall be carried out in accordance with EN ISO 6506-1 using a
ball of 2,5 mm or 5 mm or 10 mm diameter.

20


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

6.3

Works leak tightness test

6.3.1

General

At the discretion of the manufacturer, fittings, couplings and flange adaptors shall be submitted to an air test
(see 6.3.2) or to a hydrostatic pressure test (see 6.3.3) or to any other leak tightness test of equivalent

performance. Fittings shall be tested before application of their internal and external coatings.
The test apparatus shall be suitable for applying the specified test pressures to the fittings. It shall be
equipped with an industrial pressure gauge with an error limit of ± 3 %.
6.3.2

Air test

When the air test is carried out, it shall be with an internal pressure of at least 1 bar and a visual inspection
time not less than 10 s. For leak detection, the castings shall be either uniformly coated on their external
surface by a suitable foaming agent or submerged in water.
6.3.3

Hydrostatic pressure test

When the hydrostatic pressure test is carried out, it shall be with the following minimum test pressures:


dn 63 to dn 630: 16 bar;



dn 710: 10 bar.

The internal hydrostatic pressure shall be raised steadily until it reaches the test pressure which shall be
maintained for a sufficient time to allow visual inspection. The total duration of the pressure cycle shall be not
less than 15 s, including 10 s at test pressure.

7

Performance tests


7.1
7.1.1

Leak tightness of joints to internal hydrostatic pressure
Couplings and 2 sockets fittings

The test shall be carried out on an assembled joint comprising a fitting, including sockets, and two plastic
pipes section (see Figure 2).
The test apparatus shall be capable of providing suitable end and lateral restraints whether the joint is in the
aligned position, deflected or subjected to a shear load. It shall be equipped with a pressure gauge with an
accuracy in relation to the range of measured pressures of ≤ 3 %.

21


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

Key
1

plastic pipe section

2
a

ductile iron fitting
distance between block support and socket face


b length of pipe section
W vertical force

Figure 2 — Internal hydrostatic testing for couplings and 2 sockets fittings

The testing equipment shall be as shown in Figure 2. The plastic pipes shall be supported by means of V
shaped blocks with an angle of (120 ± 10)°, located at a distance, a, of 0,2dn in mm, from the socket face, and
up to a maximum of 50 mm. The length of each pipe section, b, shall be at least 2dn, in mm, and with a
minimum of 1 m. The vertical force, W, shall be applied to the fitting. The vertical force, W, shall be such that
the resultant shear force, F, across the joints is equal to the value specified in 5.2.3.2 taking into account the
mass, M, of the fitting and its contents and the geometry of the test assembly, as given in Formula (3):
W = 2F – M

(3)

The test assembly shall be filled with water and suitably vented of air. The test shall not begin before the
temperature of the test assembly has stabilised between 15 °C and 25 °C. The pressure shall be raised
steadily until it reaches the test pressure given in 5.2.2; the rate of pressure increase shall not exceed 1 bar
per s. The test pressure shall be kept constant within ± 0,5 bar for at least 2 h.
All necessary safety precautions should be taken for the duration of the pressure test.
For a restrained joint, the test assembly, the test apparatus and the test procedure are identical, except that
there shall be no end restraint so that the axial thrust is taken by the restrained joint under test.
7.1.2

Flange adaptors and 1 socket fitting

For a flange adaptor and 1 socket fitting, half of the test apparatus shall be used (see Figure 3).
The test apparatus shall be capable of providing suitable end and lateral restraints whether the joint is in the
aligned position, deflected or subjected to a shear load. It shall be equipped with a pressure gauge with an
accuracy in relation to the range of measured pressures of ≤ 3 %.


22


BS EN 12842:2012
EN 12842:2012 (E)

Key
1
2

plastic pipe section
1 socket fitting or flange adaptor

a
b

distance between block support and socket face
length of pipe section

W Vertical force

Figure 3 — Internal hydrostatic testing for flange adaptor and 1 socket fitting

The testing equipment shall be as shown in Figure 2. The plastic pipes shall be supported by means of V
shaped blocks with an angle of (120 ± 10)°, located at a distance a, of 0,2dn in mm, from the socket face, and
up to a maximum of 50 mm. The length of each pipe section, b, shall be at least 2dn, in mm, and with a
minimum of 1 m. The vertical force, W, shall be applied to the fitting. The vertical force, W, shall be such that
the resultant shear force F across the joints is equal to the value specified in 5.2.3.2 taking into account the
mass, M, of the fitting and its contents and the geometry of the test assembly, as given in Formula (4):

W=F–M

(4)

The test assembly shall be filled with water and suitably vented of air. The test shall not begin before the
temperature of the test assembly has stabilised between 15 °C and 25 °C. The pressure shall be raised
steadily until it reaches the test pressure given in 5.2.2; the rate of pressure increase shall not exceed 1 bar
per s. The test pressure shall be kept constant within ± 0,5 bar for at least 2 h.
All necessary safety precautions should be taken for the duration of the pressure test.
For a restrained joint, the test assembly, the test apparatus and the test procedure are identical, except that
there shall be no end restraint so that the axial thrust is taken by the restrained joint under test

7.2

Leak tightness of joints to negative internal pressure

The test assembly and test apparatus shall be as given in 7.1 with the pipe sections axially restrained to
prevent them moving towards each other.
The test assembly shall be empty of water and shall be evacuated to a negative internal pressure of 0,8 bar
(see 5.2.2) and then isolated from the vacuum pump. The test assembly shall be left under vacuum for 2 h
during which the pressure shall not have changed by more than 0,08 bar. The test shall begin at a
temperature between 15 °C and 25 °C, which is then kept constant at ± 2 °C for the duration of the test.
For a restrained joint, the test assembly, the test apparatus and the test procedure are identical.

23