American Water Works Association

ANSI/AWWA C909-98
(First Edition)

AWWA STANDARD
FOR
MOLECULARLY ORIENTED POLYVINYL
CHLORIDE (PVCO) PRESSURE PIPE, 4 IN.
THROUGH 12 IN. (100 mm THROUGH
300 mm), FOR WATER DISTRIBUTION

Effective date: Sept. 1, 1998.

This edition approved by AWWA Board of Directors Jan. 25, 1998.
Approved by American National Standards Institute June 9, 1998.

AMERICAN WATER WORKS ASSOCIATION

6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80235

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

 AWWA Standard
This document is an American Water Works Association (AWWA) standard. It is not a specification.
AWWA standards describe minimum requirements and do not contain all of the engineering and
administrative information normally contained in specifications. The AWWA standards usually
contain options that must be evaluated by the user of the standard. Until each optional feature is
specified by the user, the product or service is not fully defined. AWWA publication of a standard
does not constitute endorsement of any product or product type, nor does AWWA test, certify, or
approve any product. The use of AWWA standards is entirely voluntary. AWWA standards are
intended to represent a consensus of the water supply industry that the product described will
provide satisfactory service. When AWWA revises or withdraws this standard, an official notice of
action will be placed on the first page of the classified advertising section of Journal AWWA. The
action becomes effective on the first day of the month following the month of Journal AWWA
publication of the official notice.

American National Standard

An American National Standard implies a consensus of those substantially concerned with its scope
and provisions. An American National Standard is intended as a guide to aid the manufacturer, the
consumer, and the general public. The existence of an American National Standard does not in any
respect preclude anyone, whether that person has approved the standard or not, from manufactur-
ing, marketing, purchasing, or using products, processes, or procedures not conforming to the
standard. American National Standards are subject to periodic review, and users are cautioned to
obtain the latest editions. Producers of goods made in conformity with an American National
Standard are encouraged to state on their own responsibility in advertising and promotional
materials or on tags or labels that the goods are produced in conformity with particular American
National Standards.

CAUTION NOTICE: The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) approval date on the front
cover of this standard indicates completion of the ANSI approval process. This American National
Standard may be revised or withdrawn at any time. ANSI procedures require that action be taken
to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this standard no later than five years from the date of publication.
Purchasers of American National Standards may receive current information on all standards by
calling or writing the American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036;
(212) 642-4900.

Copyright © 1998 by American Water Works Association

Printed in USA

ii
Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.
 Committee Personnel
The Subcommittee on Molecularly Oriented PVC Pressure Pipe, which developed
this standard, had the following personnel at the time of approval:

Dennis Bauer, Chair

Producer Members

Dennis Bauer, Uponor ETI, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)

D.L. Eckstein, Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association, Dallas, Texas (UNI-BELL)
J.F. Houle, Village of Baraga, Baraga, Mich. (AWWA)
P.F. Lloyd, B.F. Goodrich Company, Cleveland, Ohio (AWWA)
Neil Mahoney, Vinidex Tubemakers Pty. Ltd., Gordon, Australia (AWWA)

General Interest Member

J.G. Richard Jr., Consulting Engineer, Baton Rouge, La. (AWWA)

The AWWA Standards Committee on Polyvinyl Chloride Pressure Pipe and Fittings,
which reviewed and approved this standard, had the following personnel at the time
of approval:

S.A. McKelvie, Chair

Robert P. Walker, Vice-Chair

Consumer Members

K.F. Cerotsky, Springfield Utility Board, Springfield, Ore. (AWWA)

D.A. Kellendonk, Aqualta Inc., Edmonton, Alta. (AWWA)
J.L. Diebel,* Council Liaison, Denver Water Department, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
P.L. Eckley, Salem Public Works Department, Salem, Ore. (AWWA)
B.H. Ellis,† Canusa, Woodlands, Texas (AWWA)
L.A. Kinney, US Bureau of Reclamation, Denver, Colo. (USBR)
J.L. May, City of Garland Water Utilities, Garland, Texas (AWWA)
Mike Rickman, Dallas Water Utilities, Dallas, Texas (AWWA)
L.A. Wettering, City of Appleton, Green Bay, Wis. (AWWA)
D.R. Young, Florida Cities Water Company, Sarasota, Fla. (AWWA)

General Interest Members

K.M. Bell, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, Ill. (UL)

J.P. Castronovo, CH2M Hill Inc., Gainesville, Fla. (AWWA)
M.J. Devine, Whitman & Howard Inc., Norwell, Mass. (NEWWA)
R.J. Holme, Proctor & Redfern Ltd., Don Mills, Ont. (AWWA)

* Liaison, nonvoting
† Alternate

iii
Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.
J.H. Lee, Dayton & Knight Ltd., West Vancouver, B.C. (AWWA)
S.A. McKelvie, P.B.G. & S. Inc., Glastonbury, Conn. (AWWA)
E.L. Melear, Boyle Engineering Corporation, Orlando, Fla. (AWWA)
E.W. Misichko,* Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, Ill. (UL)
J.R. Paschal, NSF International, Ann Arbor, Mich. (NSF)
J.G. Richard Jr., Consulting Engineer, Baton Rouge, La. (AWWA)
J.K. Snyder, Snyder Environmental Engineering, Audubon, Pa. (AWWA)
J.H. Wilber,† Standards Engineer Liaison, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)

Producer Members

O.J. Barber, Capco Pipe Company Inc., Van Buren, Ariz. (AWWA)
Maria Boitz, J-M Manufacturing Company Inc., Livingston, N.J. (UNI-BELL)
D.L. Eckstein,* Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association, Dallas, Texas (UNI-BELL)
S.B. Gross, Certainteed Corporation, Blue Bell, Pa. (AWWA)
D.W. Harrington, Harrington Corporation, Lynchburg, Va. (AWWA)
J.F. Houle, Pacific Western Extruded Plastics Company,
Eugene, Oregon (UNI-BELL)
P.H. Luckett, Multi-Fittings USA, Austin, Texas (AWWA)
Veso Sobot, IPEX Inc., Mississauga, Ont. (AWWA)
R.P. Walker, Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association, Dallas, Texas (UNI-BELL)

* Alternate
† Liaison, nonvoting

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Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.
 Contents

All AWWA standards follow the general format indicated subsequently. Some variations from this format may be
found in a particular standard.

SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE

Foreword 5 Verification
I Introduction........................................ vii 5.1 Quality Control and Qualification
I.A Background......................................... vii Test Requirements ........................... 8
I.B History ................................................ vii 5.2 Quality Control Records....................... 9
I.C Acceptance .......................................... vii 5.3 Plant Inspection.................................... 9
II Special Issues .................................... viii 6 Delivery
III Use of This Standard........................ viii
6.1 Marking................................................. 9
III.A Purchaser Options and
6.2 Shipping and Delivery ....................... 10
Alternatives.................................... viii
6.3 Affidavit of Compliance...................... 10
III.B Modification to Standard..................... ix
IV Major Revisions.................................... ix
Appendix
V Comments............................................. ix
A Installation and Design
Standard A.1 Installation.......................................... 11
1 General A.2 Design.................................................. 11
1.1 Scope ...................................................... 1
Tables
1.2 Purpose .................................................. 1
1.3 Application............................................. 2 1 Dimensions and Pressure Classes for
PVCO Pressure Pipe With
2 References ........................................... 2 Cast-Iron-Pipe-Equivalent ODs............ 5
3 Definitions........................................... 3 2 Sustained Pressure Requirements ...... 6
3 Burst-Pressure Requirements ............. 6
4 Requirements 4 Temperature Coefficients..................... 7
4.1 Permeation ............................................ 4 5 Time to Failure for Individual
4.2 Materials................................................ 4 Data Points (Accelerated
4.3 Pipe Requirements................................ 4 Regression Test) ................................ 8
4.4 Joint Requirements............................... 7
4.5 Pressure-Class Designations................ 7

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Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

 Foreword
This foreword is for information only and is not a part of AWWA C909.

I. Introduction.
I.A. Background. Molecularly oriented polyvinyl chloride (PVCO) pressure
pipe has been installed in Europe since the early 1970s and in North America since
1991. The longitudinal molecular structure of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is reoriented
to a circumferential direction through the application of heat and pressure. The
manufacturing process is begun by conventionally extruding a starting stock pipe.
This starting stock piece is roughly half the diameter and twice the wall thickness of
the finished PVCO pipe (e.g., starting stock with a nominal 3 in. (75 mm)* diameter
and a 0.40 in. (10.2 mm) wall thickness becomes a finished PVCO pipe with a
nominal 6 in. (150 mm) diameter and a 0.20 in. (5.1 mm) wall thickness). The
starting stock piece is heated and then blown up to its final dimensions. By blowing
the starting stock piece up, a new molecular orientation is achieved. This new
orientation increases physical and mechanical properties of the pipe. Tensile
strength, and hence the hydrostatic design basis (HDB), is substantially increased
from 4,000 psi to 7,100 psi (27.6 MPa to 49.0 MPa).
This standard pertains to 4 in. through 12 in. (100 mm through 300 mm) PVCO
pressure pipe made from class 12454-B material. The PVCO pressure pipe is
designed to provide an HDB of 7,100 psi with cast-iron-pipe-equivalent (CI) outside
diameter (OD) dimensions. The wall thicknesses are sufficient to provide pressure
classes 100 psi, 150 psi, and 200 psi while maintaining a long-term safety factor of 2.5.
I.B. History. This is the first edition of AWWA C909. In 1994, the PVC Pipe
and Fittings Committee appointed a subcommittee to develop a standard for PVCO
pressure pipe. This standard is the result of that effort.
I.C. Acceptance. In May 1985, the US Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) entered into a cooperative agreement with a consortium led by NSF
International (NSF) to develop voluntary third-party consensus standards and a
certification program for all direct and indirect drinking water additives. Other
members of the original consortium included the American Water Works Association
Research Foundation (AWWARF) and the Conference of State Health and Environ-
mental Managers (COSHEM). The American Water Works Association (AWWA) and
the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA) joined later.
In the United States, authority to regulate products for use in, or in contact
with, drinking water rests with individual states.† Local agencies may choose to
impose requirements more stringent than those required by the state. To evaluate
the health effects of products and drinking water additives from such products, state
and local agencies may use various references, including
1. An advisory program formerly administered by USEPA, Office of Drinking
Water, discontinued on Apr. 7, 1990.
2. Specific policies of the state or local agency.

*Metric conversions given in this standard are direct conversions of US customary units and
are not those specified in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards.
†Persons in Canada, Mexico, and non-North American countries should contact the
appropriate authority having jurisdiction.

vii
Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.
 3. Two standards developed under the direction of NSF, ANSI*/NSF† 60,
Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals—Health Effects, and ANSI/NSF 61, Drinking
Water System Components—Health Effects.
4. Other references, including AWWA standards, Food Chemicals Codex,
Water Chemicals Codex,‡ and other standards considered appropriate by the state or
local agency.
Various certification organizations may be involved in certifying products in
accordance with ANSI/NSF 61. Individual states or local agencies have authority to
accept or accredit certification organizations within their jurisdiction. Accreditation
of certification organizations may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
Appendix A, “Toxicology Review and Evaluation Procedures,” to ANSI/NSF 61
does not stipulate a maximum allowable level (MAL) of a contaminant for substances
not regulated by a USEPA final maximum contaminant level (MCL). The MALs of an
unspecified list of “unregulated contaminants” are based on toxicity testing
guidelines (noncarcinogens) and risk characterization methodology (carcinogens). Use
of Appendix A procedures may not always be identical, depending on the certifier.
AWWA C909-98 does not address additives requirements. Thus, users of this
standard should consult the appropriate state or local agency having jurisdiction in
order to
1. Determine additives requirements, including applicable standards.
2. Determine the status of certifications by all parties offering to certify
products for contact with, or treatment of, drinking water.
3. Determine current information on product certification.
II. Special Issues. This standard has no applicable information for this
section.
III. Use of This Standard. AWWA has no responsibility for the suitability
or compatibility of the provisions of this standard to any intended application by any
user. Accordingly, each user of this standard is responsible for determining that the
standard’s provisions are suitable for and compatible with that user’s intended
application. Although this standard generally presents adequate information to order
pipe to meet working pressure requirements, it does not include information to guide
the designer in determining wall thicknesses, pipe flexibility requirements, and
installation conditions to meet external loading conditions. Pipe designers should
refer to AWWA Manual M23, PVC Pipe—Design and Installation. In addition,
consultation with pipe manufacturers is recommended.
III.A. Purchaser Options and Alternatives. The following items should be
covered in the purchaser’s specifications:
1. Standard used—that is, ANSI/AWWA C909, Standard for Molecularly
Oriented Polyvinyl Chloride (PVCO) Pressure Pipe, 4 In. Through 12 In. (100 mm
Through 300 mm), for Water Distribution.
2. Pipe.
a. Nominal size (for example, 4 in. [100 mm]).
b. Pressure class (see Table 1).

*American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.

†NSF International, 3475 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106.
‡Both publications available from National Academy of Sciences, 2102 Constitution Ave.
N.W., Washington, DC 20418.

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Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.
 c. Length of each pressure class for each nominal pipe size to be furnished.
d. Whether drawings and calculations shall be furnished by the manufacturer.
3. Specifications. When desired, requirements such as the following should be
specified in the purchase contract.
a. Standard lengths (Sec. 4.3.3.3).
b. Shipping and delivery (Sec. 6.2).
c. Affidavit of compliance (Sec. 6.3).
4. Plant inspection. If plant inspections are desired, provisions must be
specified in the purchase contract (Sec. 5.3).
a. Production notice. The manufacturer should be required to give adequate
advance notice of when and where production of ordered materials will start.
b. Inspection aids. The manufacturer should be required to make available,
without charge, to the purchaser’s inspector such tools and assistance as are
necessary for inspection and handling of materials.
c. Inspection limitations. To exclude inspection of proprietary manufacturing
processes, the manufacturer should be required to give advance notice to the
purchaser.
III.B. Modification to Standard. Any modifications to the provisions, defini-
tions, or terminology in this standard must be provided in the purchaser’s
specifications.
IV. Major Revisions. This is the first edition of this standard.
V. Comments. If you have any comments or questions about this standard,
please call the AWWA Standards and Materials Development Department,
(303) 794-7711 ext. 6283, FAX (303) 795-1440, or write to the department at 6666 W.
Quincy Ave., Denver, CO 80235.

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Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

 American Water Works Association

ANSI/AWWA C909-98
(First Edition)

AWWA STANDARD FOR

MOLECULARLY ORIENTED
POLYVINYL CHLORIDE (PVCO)
PRESSURE PIPE, 4 IN. THROUGH
12 IN. (100 mm THROUGH 300 mm),
FOR WATER DISTRIBUTION

SECTION 1: GENERAL
Sec. 1.1 Scope
This standard pertains to molecularly oriented polyvinyl chloride (PVCO)
pressure pipe that is manufactured from starting stock pipe made from ASTM D1784
cell class 12454-B material. The starting stock materials are then oriented through
circumferential expansion to provide a hydrostatic design basis (HDB) of 7,100 psi
(49.0 MPa). The pipe has cast-iron-pipe-equivalent (CI) outside diameter (OD)
dimensions and with wall thicknesses designed for pressure classes 100, 150, and
200 psi, in 4 in. through 12 in. (100 mm through 300 mm). Design considerations are
provided in appendix A of this document.
Sec. 1.2 Purpose
The purpose of this standard is to provide purchasers, manufacturers, and
suppliers with the minimum requirements for PVCO pressure pipe, 4 in. through 12 in.
(100 mm through 300 mm), for water distribution, including materials and inspection
requirements.

1
Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.
2 AWWA C909-98

Sec. 1.3 Application

This standard can be referenced in specifications for purchasing and receiving
PVCO pressure pipe, 4 in. through 12 in. (100 mm through 300 mm), for water
distribution. The stipulations of this standard apply when this document has been
referenced and then only to PVCO pressure pipe, 4 in. through 12 in. (100 mm
through 300 mm), for water distribution.

SECTION 2: REFERENCES
This standard references the following documents. In their latest editions, they
form a part of this standard to the extent specified within the standard. In any case
of conflict, the requirements of this standard shall prevail.
ASTM* D1598—Standard Test Method for Time-to-Failure of Plastic Pipe Under
Constant Internal Pressure.
ASTM D1599—Standard Test Method for Short-Time Hydraulic Failure Pres-
sure of Plastic Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings.
ANSI†/ASTM D1784—Standard Specification for Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
(PVC) Compounds and Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Compounds.
ASTM D2122—Standard Test Method for Determining Dimensions of Thermo-
plastic Pipe and Fittings.
ASTM D2152—Standard Test Method for Adequacy of Fusion of Extruded
Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pipe and Molded Fittings by Acetone Immersion.
ASTM D2241—Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pressure-
Rated Pipe (SDR series).
ASTM D2412—Standard Test Method for Determination of External Loading
Characteristics of Plastic Pipe by Parallel-Plate Loading.
ASTM D2837—Standard Test Method for Obtaining Hydrostatic Design Basis
for Thermoplastic Pipe Materials.
ASTM D3139—Standard Specification for Joints for Plastic Pressure Pipes
Using Flexible Elastomeric Seals.
ASTM F477—Standard Specification for Elastomeric Seals (Gaskets) for Joining
Plastic Pipe.
ANSI/NSF‡ 61—Drinking Water System Components-Health Effects.
PPI§ TR3—Policies and Procedures for Developing Recommended Hydrostatic
Design Stresses for Thermoplastic Pipe Materials.

* American Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Dr., West Conshohocken, PA
19428-2529.
† American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.
‡ NSF International, 3475 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106.
§ Plastics Pipe Institute, 1275 K St. N.W., Ste. 400, Washington, DC 20005.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

 MOLECULARLY ORIENTED PVCO PRESSURE PIPE 3

SECTION 3: DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall apply in this standard:
1. Hydrostatic design basis (HDB): The long-term, hydrostatic-strength (hoop
stress) rating of a specific plastic pipe material as determined by hydrostatic tests,
evaluation, and categorization procedures in accordance with ASTM D2837. This
standard requires the use of PVC compounds that qualify for an HDB rating of
4,000 psi (27.6 MPa) and finished pipe that qualifies for an HDB rating of 7,100 psi
(49.0 MPa).
2. Expansion ratio (ER): The ratio of the outside diameter of the original
starting stock to the outside diameter of the finished PVCO pipe.
3. Manufacturer: The party that manufactures, fabricates, or produces
materials or products.
4. Molecularly oriented polyvinyl chloride (PVCO) plastics pipe: PVCO pipe is
PVC pressure pipe that attains a relatively high circumferential strength by
reorienting the molecules. To create PVCO pipe, conventionally extruded PVC pipe is
expanded circumferentially (for example, 2-in. diameter starting stock pipe is
conventionally extruded; it is then heated and blown up [expanded] to 4-in. diameter)
through the application of pressure and temperature. The expansion reorients the
PVC molecular structure in the hoop direction, thereby increasing the material
strength in the hoop direction.
5. Pressure class: A pipe’s designated design capacity, in pounds per square
inch (psi), that corresponds to its recommended safe sustained operating pressure.
Pressure class designations include an allowance for pressure surges above the
maximum sustained operating pressure caused by an instantaneous velocity change
of 2 ft/s (0.61 m/s). Pressure class designations are based on long-term pressure
testing at 73.4°F (23°C).
6. Purchaser: The person, company, or organization that purchases any
materials or work to be performed.
7. Standard thermoplastic pipe material designation code: The molecularly
oriented polyvinyl chloride materials designation code shall consist of the abbrevia-
tion PVCO for the type of plastics, followed by the ASTM type and grade in arabic
numerals and the hydrostatic design stress in units of 100 psi (690 kPa) with any
decimal figures dropped. The ASTM type and grade shall be that of the starting stock
material. The hydrostatic design stress shall be that of the finished pipe. A complete
material designation code for finished pipe manufactured in accordance with this
standard is PVCO 1135.
8. Starting stock: The conventionally extruded PVC pipe of uniform wall
thickness that will be expanded to a larger diameter to orient the molecular
structure.
9. Supplier: The party that supplies materials or services. A supplier may or
may not be the manufacturer.
10. Wall-thickness-ratio (WTR): The ratio of the starting stock wall thickness
to the wall thickness of the finished PVCO pipe.
11. Sample/Specimen: The word “sample” is only used to describe a piece or
quantity of bulk material that has been selected by some sampling process. Pieces or
quantities taken from production for testing are called “specimens.” To describe the
piece on which a test is made, “specimen” or “test specimen” is used.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

4 AWWA C909-98

SECTION 4: REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 4.1 Permeation
The selection of materials is critical for water service and distribution piping in
locations where there is likelihood the pipe will be exposed to significant concentra-
tions of pollutants comprised of low molecular weight petroleum products or organic
solvents or their vapors. Research has documented that pipe materials such as
polyethylene, polybutylene, polyvinyl chloride, and asbestos cement; and elastomers,
such as used in jointing gaskets and packing glands, may be subject to permeation by
lower molecular weight organic solvents or petroleum products. If a water pipe must
pass through such a contaminated area or an area subject to contamination, consult
with the manufacturer regarding permeation of pipe walls, jointing materials, and so
forth, before selecting materials for use in that area.
Sec. 4.2 Materials
4.2.1 Pipe. PVC starting stock pipe shall be made from virgin PVC resin that
has been compounded to provide physical and chemical properties that equal or
exceed cell class 12454-B, as defined in ASTM D1784, and shall qualify for an HDB
of 4,000 psi (27.6 MPa) at 73.4°F (23°C) per the requirements of PPI TR3. Finished
PVCO pipe shall have an HDB of 7,100 psi (49.0 MPa) as determined by testing in
accordance with ASTM D1598, with data evaluated in accordance with ASTM D2837.
Finished PVCO pipe shall have a material designation code of PVCO 1135.
4.2.2 Rework materials. No rework materials are permitted.
4.2.3 Certification for potable-water service. PVC compounds or products
shall be tested for chemical extractants and certified as suitable for potable-water
distribution service by an accredited testing agency acceptable to the purchaser, in
accordance with requirements that are no less restrictive than the applicable
requirements specified in ANSI/NSF 61.
4.2.4 Gaskets and lubricants. Gaskets and lubricants intended for use with
PVCO pipe shall be made from materials that are compatible with the plastic
material and with each other when used together. The material shall not adversely
affect the potable quality of the water that is to be transported (see foreword,
Sec. I.C).
4.2.4.1 Elastomeric gaskets. One gasket shall be furnished with each length
of elastomeric-gasket bell-end pipe. Elastomeric gaskets shall be manufactured to
conform with the high head application requirements in ASTM F477.
Sec. 4.3 Pipe Requirements
4.3.1 General. Except where specifically noted, all requirements shall apply
to finished PVCO pipe.
4.3.2 Workmanship. When manufactured, pipe shall be homogeneous
throughout; free from voids, cracks, inclusions, and other defects; and as uniform as
commercially practical in color, density, and other physical properties. Pipe surfaces
shall be free from nicks and significant scratches.* The joining surfaces of pipe

* Scratches that extend 5 percent or more into the pipe wall shall be considered significant.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

 MOLECULARLY ORIENTED PVCO PRESSURE PIPE 5

spigots and of integral-bell and sleeve-reinforced bell sockets shall be free from
gouges and other imperfections that might cause leakage at joints.
4.3.3 Dimensions.
4.3.3.1 Pipe barrel. The dimensions and tolerances of the pipe barrel shall
conform with the applicable requirements listed in Table 1 when measured as
specified in ASTM D2122.
4.3.3.2 Elastomeric-gasket bell ends. The dimensions of the integral bell ends
shall meet one of the following requirements when measured according to
ASTM D2122.
a. The bell wall thickness at any point shall conform to the dimension ratio of
the pipe except in the annular gasket ring groove and bell entry lip portions where
the wall shall be at least the minimum thickness of the pipe barrel (Table 1).
b. Designs not meeting the requirements of 4.3.3.2(a) shall be tested in
accordance with ASTM D3139 to verify that the hydrostatic design basis category for
the joint assembly is not lower than that for the pipe.
4.3.3.3 Standard lengths. Pipe shall be furnished in standard laying lengths
of 20 ft ± 1 in. (6.1 m ± 25 mm), unless otherwise agreed on at time of purchase.
4.3.4 Physical properties.
4.3.4.1 Accelerated regression. The pipe shall demonstrate a minimum HDB
projection, at the 100,000 hour intercept, of 6,810 psi (47.0 MPa). (See Table 1 of

Table 1 Dimensions and pressure classes for PVCO* pressure pipe with cast-iron-pipe-equivalent ODs

Pressure
Class
Ratings at
Nominal 73.4°F
Size (23°C) OD—in. (mm) Wall Thickness—in. (mm)
in. psi (kPa) Average Tolerance Minimum Tolerance
4 100 (690) 4.800 (121.9) ±0.009 (0.23) 0.104 (2.64) +0.013 (0.33)
4 150 (950) 4.800 (121.9) ±0.009 (0.23) 0.145 (3.79) +0.019 (0.48)
4 200 (1380) 4.800 (121.9) ±0.009 (0.23) 0.188 (4.78) +0.025 (0.64)

6 100 (690) 6.900 (175.3) ±0.011 (0.28) 0.147 (3.74) +0.020 (0.51)
6 150 (950) 6.900 (175.3) ±0.011 (0.28) 0.209 (5.31) +0.028 (0.71)
6 200 (1380) 6.900 (175.3) ±0.011 (0.28) 0.271 (6.89) +0.037 (0.92)

8 100 (690) 9.050 (229.9) ±0.015 (0.38) 0.193 (4.91) +0.026 (0.66)
8 150 (950) 9.050 (229.9) ±0.015 (0.38) 0.274 (6.97) +0.037 (0.94)
8 200 (1380) 9.050 (229.9) ±0.015 (0.38) 0.355 (9.02) +0.048 (1.22)

10 100 (690) 11.100 (281.9) ±0.015 (0.38) 0.236 (6.00) +0.032 (0.81)
10 150 (950) 11.100 (281.9) ±0.015 (0.38) 0.336 (8.54) +0.045 (1.14)
10 200 (1380) 11.100 (281.9) ±0.015 (0.38) 0.435 (11.06) +0.059 (1.50)

12 100 (690) 13.200 (335.3) ±0.015 (0.38) 0.281 (7.14) +0.038 (0.97)
12 150 (950) 13.200 (335.3) ±0.015 (0.38) 0.400 (10.17) +0.054 (1.37)
12 200 (1380) 13.200 (335.3) ±0.015 (0.38) 0.518 (13.17) +0.070 (1.78)
*Hydrostatic design stress (HDS) = 2,840 psi (19,600 kPa)

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

6 AWWA C909-98

ASTM D2837 for hydrostatic design basis categories.) At the manufacturer’s option,
the accelerated regression test may be substituted for both pressure tests, sustained
and burst.
4.3.4.2 Sustained pressure. The pipe shall not fail, balloon, burst, or weep, as
defined in ASTM D1598, at the applicable sustained pressure listed in Table 2 when
six specimens are tested for 1,000 h as specified in ASTM D2241. Either free-end or
restrained-end closures that are free of leaks at maximum pressure shall be used.
4.3.4.3 Burst pressure. The quick-burst strength of pipe, including any
integral bell end, shall meet the applicable minimum pressure requirements of
Table 3 when tested in accordance with the specimen and sample sizes, conditioning,
and procedural requirements of ASTM D1599. At least three of the five test
specimens shall have a portion of the required markings located at least one pipe
diameter away from an end closure. For bell-end pipe, the bell shall be included as a
part of at least two test specimens. The test requirement has been met when the bell
is able to attain hydrostatic pressure equal to or greater than the values in Table 3
within 60 to 70 seconds.
4.3.4.4 Hydrostatic integrity. The pipe, including any integral bell end, shall
not fail, balloon, burst, or weep when subjected to an internal pressure equal to four
times its designated pressure class, as listed in Table 1, for a minimum dwell of
5 seconds. The pipe shall attain ambient temperature before testing. When the
ambient temperature is higher than 77°F (25°C), the test pressure shall be reduced
using Table 4.
4.3.4.5 Flattening. Three specimens of pipe, a minimum of 2 in. (50 mm) long,
shall be flattened between parallel plates in a suitable press until the distance
between the plates is 40 percent of the OD of the pipe. The three specimens shall be
oriented in accordance with the “Procedure” section of ASTM D2412; except, if no
minimum wall thickness has been identified, a spider line shall be used as the
baseline. The rate of flattening shall be uniform and such that the compression is

Table 2 Sustained pressure requirements

Pressure required for test with water at 73.4°F (23°C)

Pressure Class psi (kPa)

100 350 (2,410)
150 500 (3,450)
200 650 (4,480)
NOTE: Test pressures were derived using a pipe fiber stress of 8,000 psi (55.2 MPa).

Table 3 Burst-pressure requirements

Pressure required for test with water at 73.4°F (23°C)

Pressure Class psi (kPa)

100 535 (3,690)
150 755 (5,210)
200 985 (6,790)
NOTE: Test pressures were derived using a pipe fiber stress of 12,050 psi (83.1 MPa).

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

 MOLECULARLY ORIENTED PVCO PRESSURE PIPE 7

completed within 2 to 5 min. The applied load shall then be removed and the
specimen examined. There shall be no evidence of splitting, cracking, or breaking.
4.3.4.6 Extrusion quality. The starting stock pipe shall not fail when tested
by the acetone-immersion method as specified in ASTM D2152.
Sec. 4.4 Joint Requirements
Bell-end pipe designed for making PVCO joints using elastomeric gaskets to
affect the pressure seal shall be tested as assembled joints and shall meet the
requirements specified in ASTM D3139. (These are qualifying test requirements to
determine proper design and performance of specimen joints.)
Sec. 4.5 Pressure-Class Designations
The three pressure classes covered by this standard shall be as listed in Table 1.
The pressure classes apply to maximum sustained working pressure and provide for
a pressure rise above maximum working pressure caused by surge (water hammer)
from an instantaneous water velocity change of 2 ft/s (0.61 m/s). Pipe pressure classes
shall be based on a safety factor of 2.5 when calculated using the following equation:

2 HDB
PC = -------------- × -------------- – P s (Eq 1)
D F
---- – 1
t

Where:
PC = pressure class, in pounds per square inch (for sustained pipe
temperature above 73.4°F [23°C], see Table 4)
D = average outside diameter, in inches
t = minimum wall thickness, in inches
HDB = hydrostatic design basis, which for this standard shall be 7,100 psi
(49.0 MPa)
F = safety factor, which for this standard shall be 2.5
Ps = surge pressure allowance, in pounds per square inch, based on an
instantaneous velocity change of 2 ft/s (0.61 m/s). The pressure rise
for a 2 ft/s (0.61 m/s) abrupt velocity change is 31, 27, and 23 psi (215,
185, and 160 kPa) for PCs 200, 150, and 100, respectively.

Table 4 Temperature coefficients

Pipe Temperature Pressure Rating Reduction Coefficient

°F (°C) percent
77 [73.4 ± 3.6] (25 [23 ± 2]) 100
80 (27) 87
90 (32) 75
100 (38) 64
110 (43) 53
120 (49) 42
130 (54) 31

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

8 AWWA C909-98

SECTION 5: VERIFICATION
Sec. 5.1 Quality Control and Qualification Test Requirements
The manufacturer shall take adequate measures to produce PVCO pipe
products that comply with the requirements of this standard. The pipe shall be tested
at 73.4 ± 3.6°F (23 ± 2°C), unless otherwise specified, in accordance with the
requirements of Sec. 4.3 at intervals as required in this standard.
5.1.1 Pipe dimensions. The dimensions of pipe produced from each extrusion
outlet and each expansion unit, and the bell or sleeve-reinforced bell of pipe with
such ends, shall be measured in accordance with Sec. 4.3.3 at the beginning of
production of each specific material and each size. Thereafter, one specimen from
each extrusion outlet and expansion unit shall be measured each hour.
5.1.2 Accelerated regression test. This test shall be completed on a represen-
tative diameter at initial start up in accordance with Sec. 4.3.4.1. A representative
diameter is one that has an ER, a WTR, and a compound that is the same as the
other diameters manufactured. Thereafter, it shall be completed on a representative
diameter whenever there is a change in the ER or the WTR, or whenever a change is
made to the compound that is outside the allowable limits of the Plastics Pipe
Institute PVC compound range formula (see PPI TR3). Testing shall be in accordance
with procedures in ASTM D1598. A sample consisting of a minimum of six specimens
shall be tested at pressures selected to yield data points as follows in Table 5.
Additional points may be added if necessary to improve projection or lower
confidence level (LCL), or both. No points shall be excluded unless an obvious defect
is detected in the failure area of the test sample. Results shall be characterized using
the least squares extrapolation described in ASTM D2837. (These tests are for
qualification of the extrusion and expansion process and not for quality control of the
product.)
5.1.3 Sustained pressure. At the beginning of production and semiannually
thereafter, specimens of 4-in. (100-mm) or 6-in. (150-mm) pipe and of 8-in. (200-mm)
or larger size pipe that are made from each PVCO pressure pipe commercial
compound (i.e., material) shall be tested in accordance with Sec. 4.3.4.2. (These tests
are for qualification of the compound and the extrusion and orienting process and not
for quality control of the product.)
5.1.4 Pipe burst strength. The quick-burst strength of pipe produced from
each expansion unit shall be tested in accordance with Sec. 4.3.4.3 at the beginning
of production of each specific material, and each size. Thereafter, one specimen from
each expansion unit shall be tested every 24 h.

Table 5 Time to failure for individual data points (accelerated regression test)

Time in Hours (h)

0.010 to 0.099 h (36 s to 6 min)
0.10 to 0.999 h (6 min to 1 h)
1.00 to 9.999 h
10.0 to 99.999 h
100.0 to 100+ h
0 to 100+ h (random point)

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

 MOLECULARLY ORIENTED PVCO PRESSURE PIPE 9

5.1.5 Flattening capability. The flattening capability of pipe shall be tested in

accordance with Sec. 4.3.4.5 at the beginning of production from each expansion unit
for each specific material and each size. Thereafter, one specimen from each
expansion unit shall be tested every 8 h.
5.1.6 Extrusion quality. The starting stock pipe produced from each extrusion
outlet shall be tested in accordance with Sec. 4.3.4.6 at the beginning of production of
each specific material and each size. Thereafter, one specimen from each extrusion
outlet shall be tested every 8 h.
5.1.7 Provision for test failure. When any PVCO product fails to meet a require-
ment specified in this standard or in a referenced standard, additional tests shall be
performed to determine which products are acceptable of those produced since the
last favorable test. Products that fail to meet any requirement shall be rejected.
5.1.8 Hydrostatic proof-test for pipe. Each standard and random length of
pipe shall be proof tested in accordance with Sec. 4.3.4.4.
5.1.9 Additional test requirements. The purchaser or supplier may allow the
manufacturer to conduct hydrostatic proof tests for pipes at test frequencies other
than those required in Sec. 5.1.8.
Sec. 5.2 Quality Control Records
The manufacturer shall maintain, for a period of not less than 2 years, a record
of all quality control tests and shall, if requested, submit the pertinent record to the
purchaser.
Sec. 5.3 Plant Inspection
5.3.1 Manufacturer’s responsibility. The manufacturer is responsible for fur-
nishing materials that comply with the applicable requirements of this standard and
of the purchaser whether or not the purchaser inspects the plant.
5.3.2 Plant access. The purchaser shall have free access to those parts of a
manufacturer’s plant that are necessary to ensure that products comply with all
requirements.

SECTION 6: DELIVERY
Sec. 6.1 Marking
6.1.1 General. Pipe shall bear identification markings that will remain
legible during normal handling, storage, and installation. The markings shall be
applied in a manner that will not reduce the strength of the pipe.
6.1.2 Pipe. Marking on the pipe shall include the following and shall be
applied at intervals of not more than 5 ft (1.5 m):
1. Nominal size (for example, 4 in.).
2. PVCO.
3. AWWA pressure class (for example, PC 100).
4. AWWA designation number for this standard (ANSI/AWWA C909).
5. Manufacturer’s name or trademark and production-record code, to include
date of starting stock extrusion and the date the finished pipe is expanded.
6. Seal (mark) of the testing agency that verified the suitability of the pipe
material for potable-water service (Sec. 4.2.3).
7. The words “Do Not Use Solvent Cement.”

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

10 AWWA C909-98

Sec. 6.2 Shipping and Delivery

6.2.1 Shipping. All pipe shall, unless otherwise specified by the purchaser, be
prepared for standard commercial shipment.
6.2.2 Delivery. Pipe that does not comply with the applicable requirements of
this standard or that is damaged when received shall be replaced by the
manufacturer or supplier at the agreed point of delivery.
Sec. 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance
The manufacturer shall, if so specified by the purchaser, furnish an affidavit
that all delivered materials comply with the requirements of this standard and of the
purchaser.

Copyright © 1999 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.

 APPENDIX A
Installation and Design

This appendix is for information only and is not a part of AWWA C909.

SECTION A.1: INSTALLATION

The installation recommendations found in AWWA Manual M23, PVC Pipe—
Design and Installation and in ANSI/AWWA C605, Standard for Underground
Installation of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Pipe and Fittings for Water, apply
to PVCO pipe manufactured in accordance with this standard. The following
exceptions apply:
1. Tapping—PVCO pipe must be tapped through a saddle. Direct tapping the
wall of the pipe is not permitted.
2. Use of Solvent Cement—The molecular orientation of PVCO pipe will not
permit the use of solvent cement. The solvent does not adequately break down the
structure and therefore will not result in proper bonding of PVCO surfaces.
3. Maximum Operating Temperature—The maximum recommended operat-
ing temperature is 130°F (54°C).

SECTION A.2: DESIGN

The pipe design recommended in AWWA Manual M23 applies to PVCO pipe
manufactured in accordance with this standard. The key pipe design variables
required for use in equations in AWWA Manual M23 are contained within the body
of this standard.
The minimum modulus of elasticity to be used with PVCO pipe is 465,000 psi
(3,200 MPa).

11
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