IS 49852000AI Search Enabled✦ AI Generated

Unplasticized PVC Pipes for Potable Water Supplies

IS 4985:2000 specifies requirements for unplasticized PVC (UPVC) pipes intended for potable water supply systems. It covers dimensions, physical and chemical properties, testing methods, and marking requirements to ensure safety, durability, and suitability for drinking water applications. This standard applies to manufacturers, suppliers, and engineers involved in the production, quality control, and installation of UPVC pipes for potable water and related agricultural uses.

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Alternative search terms: IS 4985 PDF, IS 4985 pdf free download, IS 4985 free download pdf, IS4985 PDF, IS-4985 PDF, IS 4985 2000 PDF, IS 4985:2000 PDF, IS 4985-2000 PDF, IS 4985 (2000) PDF, IS 4985 2000 edition PDF, IS 4985 edition 2000 PDF

What This Standard Covers

IS 4985:2000 specifies requirements for unplasticized PVC (UPVC) pipes intended for potable water supply systems. It covers dimensions, physical and chemical properties, testing methods, and marking requirements to ensure safety, durability, and suitability for drinking water applications. This standard applies to manufacturers, suppliers, and engineers involved in the production, quality control, and installation of UPVC pipes for potable water and related agricultural uses.

Who Uses This Standard

  • Civil Engineers
  • Water Supply Engineers
  • Quality Control Inspectors
  • Manufacturers of PVC Pipes
  • Plumbing Contractors
  • Agricultural Engineers
  • Material Testing Laboratories

Key Topics Covered

Material composition and virgin resin requirements
Dimensional tolerances including outside diameter and wall thickness
Hydrostatic pressure testing and performance criteria
Impact resistance and external blow testing
Chemical resistance and effect on potable water quality
Marking and identification of pipes
Socket and joint specifications
Sampling procedures and conformity criteria
Physical properties such as density and opacity
Temperature and pressure ratings for safe use
Testing for toxic substances and impurities
Classification of pipes by pressure class
Rework and recycled material limitations
Visual appearance and color coding
Acceptance and type testing protocols

Table of Contents

1Scope

IS 4985: Scope & Key Specifications

Scope (Clause 3.0 & related notations)

  • Applies to PVC pipes for potable water supply.
  • Covers dimensions, classification, testing, and quality requirements.

Important Notations (Symbols)

SymbolMeaning
dNominal outside diameter
d₀Outside diameter at any point
dₘMean outside diameter
dₘ,max / dₘ,minMax/Min mean outside diameter
dᵢMean inside socket diameter
eWall thickness at any point
eₘMean wall thickness
eₘ,max / eₘ,minMax/Min wall thickness
LOverall length of pipe
LₑEffective length of pipe
PₙNominal (working) pressure
fDerating factor for application
fₜDerating factor for water temperature
ρMaterial density
σₕHydrostatic stress
σ_dDesign stress

Classification of Pipes (Clause 5.0 & Table C-4.1.3)

  • Pipes classified by Nominal Outside Diameter (d)
  • Impact test parameters (mass of falling weight & fall height):
Nominal Outside Diameter (mm)Mass of Falling Weight (kg)Fall Height (mm)
≤ 250.25 ±0.5%500 ±10
32 to 630.25 ±0.5%1000 - 2000 ±10
90 to 1100.50 ±0.5%2000 ±10
≥ 1251.00 ±0.5%2000 ±10

Testing Notes

  • Convex (outer) surface of pipe specimen faces light source during inspection.
  • Updated nomenclature and dimensional values in tables for accuracy.

flowchart LR
    A[PVC Pipes Scope] --> B[Dimensions & Tolerances]
    A --> C[Classification by Diameter]
    C --> D[Impact Test Parameters]
    A --> E[Material & Mechanical
2Definitions

IS 4985 - Definitions & Key Specifications

Key Definitions (Clause 3.0 & 3.22)

  • Own Rework Material: Material from rejected unused pipes or trimmings, reprocessed with known formulation.
  • Symbols:
SymbolMeaning
dₙNominal outside diameter
d₀Outside diameter at any point
dₘMean outside diameter
dₘ, maxMaximum mean outside diameter
dₘ, minMinimum mean outside diameter
dᵢMean inside socket diameter
eWall thickness at any point
eₘMean wall thickness
eₘ, maxMaximum wall thickness
eₘ, minMinimum wall thickness
eₙNominal wall thickness
L₀Overall length of pipe
LₑEffective length of pipe
LₛMinimum socket length
PₙNominal (working) pressure
fₐDerating/uprating factor
fₜDerating factor for temperature
ρMaterial density
σₕHydrostatic stress
σ_dDesign stress

Pipe Classification - Falling Weight Test (Clause 4.1.2)

Nominal Outside Diameter (dₙ, mm)Mass of Falling Weight (kg)Fall Height (mm)
Up to 250.25 ± 0.5%500 ± 10
32 to 500.25 ± 0.5%1,000 ± 10
63 to 750.25 ± 0.5%2,000 ± 10
90 to 1100.50 ± 0.5%2,000 ± 10
125 and above1.00 ± 0.5%2,000 ± 10

Sampling

3Classification of Pipes

IS 4985 - Classification of PVC Pipes

1. Classification by Working Pressure (Clause 5.1)

ClassWorking Pressure (PN) at 27℃
Class 10.25 MPa (2.5 kg/cm²)
Class 20.4 MPa (4.0 kg/cm²)
Class 30.6 MPa (6.0 kg/cm²)
Class 40.8 MPa (8.0 kg/cm²)
Class 51.0 MPa (10.0 kg/cm²)
Class 61.25 MPa (12.5 kg/cm²)

2. Key Dimensions (Excerpt from Table 7.2)

  • Pipes are specified by Nominal Outside Diameter (DN).
  • For each DN and class, minimum and maximum wall thickness values are defined.
  • Wall thickness increases with pressure class for the same DN.
DN (mm)Wall Thickness (mm) ExampleClass 1Class 3Class 6
50Min - Max1.1-1.51.7-2.12.8-4.0
110Min - Max1.6-2.03.7-4.37.5-8.7
200Min - Max2.9-3.46.8-7.713.6-15.7

3. Important Symbols (Clause 3.22 & Notations)

SymbolMeaning
(d_n)Nominal outside diameter
(d)Outside diameter at any point
(e)Wall thickness at any point
(e_{min}), (e_{max})Min/Max wall thickness
(L)Overall length of pipe
(PN)Nominal (working) pressure

Summary:

  • Pipes are classified by **
4Dimensions and Tolerances

IS 4985: Dimensions and Tolerances for uPVC Pipes

1. Outside Diameter & Tolerances (Clause 7.1.1, Table 1)

  • Mean Outside Diameter (D_mean) and Outside Diameter at any point (D_point) have specified min and max limits.
  • Measured as per IS 12235 (Part 1).
  • Example for DN 50:
    • Mean Outside Diameter: 50.0 mm (min), 50.3 mm (max)
    • Outside Diameter at any point: 49.4 mm (min), 50.6 mm (max)

2. Socket Dimensions for Solvent Cement Jointing (Clause 7.2.1.1, Table 3)

Nominal Size DNSocket Length L (mm)Socket Internal Diameter at Mid-Point d (mm) MinMax
2016.020.120.3
5031.050.150.3
11061.0110.1110.4
630321.0630.4631.0
  • L = Socket length (minimum depth of engagement)
  • d = Internal diameter at mid-point of socket length

3. Wall Thickness Classes (from Table 1)

  • Classes 1 to 6 correspond to working pressures 0.25 MPa to 1.25 MPa.
  • Wall thickness varies with nominal size and class.
  • Example for DN 50:
    • Class 1: 1.5 mm (min), 1.1 mm (max)
    • Class 6: 4.0 mm (min), 3.4 mm (max)

Summary:

ParameterSpecification
Mean Outside DiameterPer Table 1 (e.g., DN 50: 50.0-50.3 mm)
Outside Diameter at any pointPer Table 1 (e.g., DN 50: 49.4-50.6 mm)
Socket Length (L)Per Table
5Material Requirements

IS 4985: Material Requirements - Key Points

1. Material Definition (Clause 3.22)

  • Own Rework Material: Reprocessed from rejected/unused pipes or production trimmings.
  • Must be processed at the manufacturer's plant with known formulation.
  • Only manufacturer's own rework material is allowed (Clause 6.2).

2. Notations (Key Symbols)

SymbolMeaning
dNominal outside diameter
d₀Outside diameter at any point
dₘMean outside diameter
dₘ,maxMaximum mean outside diameter
dₘ,minMinimum mean outside diameter
dᵢMean inside socket diameter
eWall thickness at any point
eₘMean wall thickness
eₘ,maxMaximum wall thickness
eₘ,minMinimum wall thickness
eₙNominal wall thickness
LOverall length of pipe
LₑEffective length of pipe
LₛMinimum socket length
PₙNominal (working) pressure
fDerating/uprating factor
fₜDerating factor for water temp.
ρMaterial density
σₕHydrostatic stress
σ_dDesign stress

3. Sampling & Testing (Quality Control)

  • Sampling scales for Visual, Dimensional, Vicat Softening, Density, Sulphated Ash Tests are tabulated for different lot sizes.
  • Example: For lots up to 1,000 pipes, first sample size for visual/dimensional test is 13 pipes with acceptance 0 rejects, rejection at 2 rejects.
  • Refer to Tables 13, 14, 15 for detailed sampling sizes and acceptance criteria.

4. Pressure Calculation (Reference Fig. 1)

  • Maximum continuous working pressure depends on temperature (up to 45°C).
  • Use derating factors f and fₜ to adjust nominal pressure Pₙ.

Summary Formula for Design Stress:

[ \sigma_d = \frac{P_n \times d_m}{

6Physical and Chemical Characteristics

IS 4985: Physical and Chemical Characteristics — Key Points

1. Chamfering for Elastomeric Sealing Rings (Clause 9.2)

  • Pipes with plain ends must be chamfered at ~15° to the pipe axis.
  • Chamfer depth: ~2/3 of the wall thickness.
  • Ensures proper seating of elastomeric sealing rings.

2. Sampling for Physical Tests (Tables 14 & 15)

  • Sampling is based on lot size and pipe diameter (d).
  • Tests include: Reversion, Vicat Softening Temperature, Density, Sulphated Ash Content.
Lot Size (pipes)Sample Size (First/Second)Acceptance NumberRejection Number
Up to 1,0005 / 50 / 12 / 2
1,001 to 3,0008 / 80 / 12 / 2
3,001 to 10,00013 / 130 / 12 / 2
10,001 and above20 / 200 / 33 / 4

For pipes with diameter >110 mm, sample sizes are reduced.


3. Toxic Substance Limits (Clause 1.0)

  • Lead: 0.001 mg/l (ppm)
  • Mercury: 0.001 mg/l
  • Other toxic organotin compounds: 0.01 mg/l

4. Minimum Depths of Engagement (Table 5)

  • For joints involving sulphuric acid (density 1840 kg/m³), specific engagement depths are prescribed (refer to Table 5 in IS 4985).

Summary Diagram: Chamfering Detail

graph LR
A[Pipe End] --> B[Chamfer at 15°]
B --> C[Depth = 2/3 Wall Thickness]
C --> D[Proper Seal with Elastomeric Ring]

**Use IS 4985 Tables for sampling and chemical

7Sockets and Jointing

IS 4985: Sockets and Jointing Key Specifications


1. Sockets for Solvent Cement Jointing (Clause 7.2.1.1)

  • Socket Length (L) and Mean Internal Diameter (d) at midpoint per Nominal Size DN:
DN (mm)Socket Length L (mm)Mean Socket Internal Diameter d (mm) MinMax
2016.020.120.3
2519.025.125.3
............
630321.0630.4631.0
  • Minimum Socket Length Formula:

[ L_s = 0.5 \times d_n + 6 \text{ mm} ]

where (d_n) = nominal outside diameter.

  • Total taper angle ≤ 0°30'.

2. Sockets for Elastomeric Sealing Ring Joints (Clause 7.2.1.2)

  • Must conform to Table 4 and Fig. 4 (not provided here).

  • Minimum Depth of Engagement (m):

[ m = \begin{cases}

50 \text{ mm} + 0.22 d_a, & d < 280 \text{ mm} \ 70 \text{ mm} + 0.15 d_a, & d \geq 280 \text{ mm} \end{cases} ]

  • (d_a) = outer diameter at any point.

  • Wall thickness at socket (including groove) ≥ minimum pipe wall thickness.

  • Joint pressure rating per Table 6 (not provided).


3. Sealing Rings (Clause 8)

  • Types 1 to 6 as per IS 5382.

  • Manufacturer specifies ring type.

  • Test certificate recommended every 3 months.


4. Additional Notes

  • Wall thickness for pipes based on safe working stress 8.6 MPa at 27°C.

  • Effective length and insertion length differ for plain-ended, solvent cement, and rubber jointed pipes (see Fig. 3).


8Marking

IS 4985 - Marking of Pipes (Clause 13)

Key Specifications for Marking:

  • Marking Interval:
    Every pipe must be marked at intervals ≤ 3 meters.

  • Marking Method:
    Ink/paint or hot embossing on a white base; alternatively, inkjet printing in contrasting color.

  • Information to Mark:

    • Manufacturer's name or trade-mark
    • Outside diameter (OD)
    • Class of pipe and pressure rating
    • Batch or lot number
    • The word "plumbing" (for plumbing pipes)
  • Colour Coding by Pipe Class (Clause 13.1.1):

Class of PipeColour
Class 1Red
Class 2Blue
Class 3Green
Class 4Brown
Class 5Yellow
Class 6Black
  • Additional Marking:
    Pipes may also carry the Standard Mark as per Clause 13.2.1.

Summary:

Markings ensure easy identification of pipe specifications and quality control. Colour coding aids quick visual classification on site.

flowchart LR
    A[Pipe] --> B{Marking Interval ≤ 3m}
    B --> C[Manufacturer's Name/Trade-mark]
    B --> D[Outside Diameter]
    B --> E[Class & Pressure Rating]
    B --> F[Batch/Lot Number]
    B --> G["Plumbing" (if applicable)]
    B --> H[Colour Code by Class]
    B --> I[Standard Mark (optional)]
9Sampling and Testing

IS 4985: Sampling and Testing Key Points

Sampling Scales for Different Tests

Test TypeLot Size (Number of Pipes)Sample Number (1st/2nd)Sample Size (Cumulative)Acceptance NumberRejection Number
Visual & Dimensional (Clause 1.4.1, Table 13)Up to 1,00013 / 1313 / 260 / 12 / 2
1,001 to 3,00020 / 2020 / 400 / 12 / 2
3,001 to 10,00032 / 3232 / 640 / 32 / 4
10,001 and above50 / 5050 / 1001 / 44 / 5
Reversion, Vicat Softening Temp., Density (Clause 1.6, Table 14)Up to 1,0005 / 55 / 100 / 12 / 2
1,001 to 3,0008 / 88 / 160 / 12 / 2
3,001 to 10,00013 / 1313 / 260 / 12 / 2
10,001 and above20 / 2020 / 400 / 33 / 4
Sulphated Ash Content (Clause D-1.8, Table 15)Up to 10,0002 / 22 / 40 / 11 / 1
Above 10,
10Type Tests

IS 4985: Type Tests Summary

Type tests validate new pipe compositions or sizes, ensuring performance per IS 4985 requirements.


Key Points from Clauses:

  • When to conduct:

    • Change in polymer composition
    • Introduction of new pipe size or series
  • Samples:

    • 3 samples of different diameters & classes from regular production
    • Tested for compliance with Tables 6 & 7 (mechanical & physical properties)
  • Relevant Clauses:

    • Clause 2.1.3.1: Selection & testing of 3 samples
    • Clause 3.20.1: Type tests for suitability & performance
    • Clause 2.1.3: Internal Hydrostatic Pressure Test as a mandatory type test

Essential Type Tests (per IS 4985):

Test TypePurposeReference Clause/Table
Internal Hydrostatic PressureVerify pipe withstands pressureClause 2.1.3, Table 6
Tensile StrengthMechanical strength checkTable 7
Impact ResistanceDurability against shockTable 7
Dimensional ChecksVerify pipe size & toleranceTable 6

Internal Hydrostatic Pressure Test Formula:

[ P = \frac{2 \times \sigma_t \times t}{D} ]

Where:

  • (P) = Design pressure
  • (\sigma_t) = Allowable tensile stress of pipe material
  • (t) = Wall thickness
  • (D) = Outside diameter

Summary Diagram

flowchart TD
    A[Change in Polymer or Size] --> B[Select 3 Samples]
    B --> C[Perform Type Tests]
    C --> D[Internal Hydrostatic Pressure Test]
    C --> E[Tensile Strength Test]
    C --> F[Impact Resistance Test]
    C --> G[Dimensional Checks]
    D & E & F & G --> H[Compliance Verification]

Note: Refer IS 4985 Tables 6 & 7 for detailed test parameters and acceptance criteria.

11Acceptance Tests

IS 4985 Acceptance Tests for Steel Tubes

Key Acceptance Test Parameters:

  • Internal Hydrostatic Pressure Test (Clause 1.10):

    • Test pressure = 1.5 × PN (Nominal Pressure)
    • Duration: Minimum 5 seconds
    • Purpose: Check tube integrity under pressure without leakage or permanent deformation.
  • Tensile Strength Test (Clauses 2.20 & 1.16):

    • Tensile strength acceptance limit = ≥ 2.20 × PN (MPa) or ≥ 1.16 × PN (MPa) depending on test type (verify specific clause for exact application).
  • Acceptance Tests (Clause 3.20.2):

    • Samples taken from each lot for testing
    • Tests include dimensional checks, mechanical properties, and hydrostatic pressure tests
    • Lot acceptance based on compliance with all specified criteria.

Summary Table:

Test TypeTest ParameterValueClause Reference
Internal Hydrostatic TestTest Pressure1.5 × PN (MPa)1.10
Tensile Strength TestMinimum Tensile Strength2.20 × PN or 1.16 × PN2.20, 1.16
Lot AcceptanceSampling & TestingAs per Clause 3.20.23.20.2

flowchart TD
    A[Lot of Tubes] --> B[Sample Selection]
    B --> C{Acceptance Tests}
    C --> D[Dimensional Checks]
    C --> E[Mechanical Tests (Tensile)]
    C --> F[Hydrostatic Pressure Test]
    D --> G{Pass?}
    E --> G
    F --> G
    G -->|Yes| H[Accept Lot]
    G -->|No| I[Reject Lot]

Note: Always refer to the specific clauses for detailed test procedures and acceptance criteria.

12Inspection and Quality Control

IS 4985 - Inspection & Quality Control Key Points


1. Sampling for Visual & Dimensional Requirements (Clause 1.4.1, Table 13)

Lot Size (pipes)Sample No.Sample SizeCumulative SampleAcceptance No.Rejection No.
Up to 1,0001st131302
2nd132612
1,001 to 3,0001st202002
2nd204012
3,001 to 10,0001st323203
2nd326434
10,001 and above1st505014
2nd5010045

2. Sampling for Reversion, Vicat Softening Temp., Density (Clause 1.6, Table 14)

  • Sample sizes vary by lot size and pipe diameter.
  • For example, for up to 1,000 pipes, first sample size is 5; for 10,001+, first sample size is 20.
  • Acceptance and rejection numbers are similar to Table 13 but adjusted per test.

3. Sampling for Sulphated Ash Content Test (Clause 1.8, Table 15)

Lot Size (pipes)Sample No.Sample SizeCumulative SampleAcceptance No.Rejection No.
Up to 10,0001st2201
2nd24
13Packaging and Storage

IS 4985: Packaging and Storage - Key Specifications & Tables

1. Conditioning Period (Table 12, Clause C-7 A):

Wall Thickness (mm)Conditioning Period (minutes)
Liquid Bath
up to 8.615
8.6 to 14.130
above 14.160
  • Conditioning ensures pipe material attains required properties before testing or use.

2. Acceptance Sampling for Quality Tests (Tables 14 & 15):

  • Sampling size depends on lot size and pipe diameter.
  • Example from Table 14 (Reversion, Vicat Softening Temp, Density):
Lot SizeSample Size (First)AcceptanceRejection
Up to 1,00050 failures2 failures
1,001 to 3,000802
10,001+2003
  • Table 15 is similar for Sulphated Ash Content test but with smaller sample sizes.

3. Test Evaluation - Number of Blows & Failures (Table 11, Clause C-6.5):

  • Minimum 25 blows initially.
  • Accept if failures = 0; Reject if failures ≥4.
  • Continue testing for intermediate failures (1-3) until decision region is reached.

Notations for Pipes (Clause 3.22):

  • d = Nominal outside diameter
  • d_max, d_min = Max/Min mean outside diameter
  • e = Mean wall thickness
  • e_max, e_min = Max/Min wall thickness
  • L = Overall length
  • P = Nominal pressure (working pressure)
  • σ = Design stress

This ensures proper handling, conditioning, and quality acceptance during packaging and storage of IS 4985 pipes.

Annex AList of Referenced Indian Standards

IS 4985 - List of Referenced Indian Standards (Annex A, Clause 2):

This standard references key IS codes related to PVC pipes and materials testing:

IS No.Title
4669 : 1968Methods of test for poly vinyl chloride resins
4905 : 1968Methods for random sampling
5382 : 1985Rubber sealing rings for gas mains, water mains and sewers
6307 : 1985Specification for rigid PVC sheets
10148 : 1982Positive list of constituents of PVC resins safe for food, pharmaceuticals, drinking water
10151 : 1982Specification for PVC and copolymers safe for food, pharmaceuticals, drinking water
12231 : 1987Specifications for UPVC pipes for agricultural pump suction and delivery lines
12235 (Parts 1-11)Methods of test for unplasticized PVC pipes for potable water supplies
12818 : 1992Unplasticized PVC screen and casing pipes for bore/tube wells
13360 (Part 3)/Sec 1 : 1995Plastics - Methods of testing: Physical and dimensional properties, density determination

Key Notes:

  • Sulphated Ash Content Test (Clause 10.7):
    Calcination with sulfuric acid followed by heating at 850°C until constant mass.

  • Rounding Off (IS 2:1960):
    Test results must be rounded to the same decimal places as specified values.

  • BIS Certification Mark (Clause 13.2.2):
    Use governed by BIS Act 1986; license details available from BIS.


Summary Diagram of Reference Standards Relation

graph TD
  A[IS 4985] --> B[PVC Resin Testing - IS 4669]
  A --> C[PVC Pipe Testing - IS 12235]
  A --> D[Rubber Sealing Rings - IS 5382]
  A --> E[UPVC Pipes for Agriculture - IS 12231]
  A --> F[Safety for Food Contact - IS 10148/10151]
  A --> G
Annex BTest Methods

IS 4985: Key Test Methods - Formulas, Tables & Specifications


1. Sampling for Tests (Clauses 1.6, D-1.5 to D-1.8)

Table 14: Sampling for Reversion, Vicat Softening Temp., and Density Tests

Lot Size (No. of Pipes)Sample No.Sample SizeCumulative SizeAcceptanceRejection
Up to 1,0001st5502
2nd51012
1,001 to 3,0001st8802
2nd81612
3,001 to 10,0001st131302
2nd132612
10,001 and above1st202003
2nd204034

For pipes diameter (d) > 110 mm, reduced sample sizes apply.


2. Sampling for Sulphated Ash Content (Clause D-1.8)

Table 15:

Lot Size (No. of Pipes)Sample No.Sample SizeCumulative SizeAcceptanceRejection
Up to 10,0001st2201
2nd2411
Above 10,0001st3302
2nd

Popular Questions About IS 4985

?What are the specified dimensional tolerances for UPVC pipes under IS 4985?

IS 4985 specifies dimensional tolerances for UPVC pipes primarily in Table 1 (Clause 7 and related amendments). Key points:

  • Outside Diameter (OD) Tolerance: The OD at any point must conform within specified limits (usually ±0.5% to ±1% depending on pipe size and class).
  • Wall Thickness Tolerance: Varies by class and size; typically ±10% of nominal thickness.
  • Length Tolerance: Usually ±1% of the nominal length.
  • Tolerances ensure compatibility with fittings and maintain pressure ratings.

Summary Table (Typical tolerances):

ParameterTolerance Range
Outside Diameter±0.5% to ±1% of nominal OD
Wall Thickness±10% of nominal thickness
Length±1% of nominal length

These tolerances ensure pipes meet pressure class requirements (0.25 to 0.80 MPa) and fit with solvent cement or elastomeric sealing ring joints.

For exact values, refer to Table 1 of IS 4985 and related amendments.

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?How does IS 4985 address the chemical safety of pipes for potable water?

IS 4985 ensures chemical safety of UPVC pipes for potable water through:

  • Material Specifications: Pipes are made from unplasticized PVC resins conforming to IS 10148 and IS 10151, which certify safe use in contact with drinking water and foodstuffs.
  • Limits on Contaminants: Amendment No. 3 reduces allowable extractable contaminants, e.g., cadmium and mercury, to very low levels (e.g., 0.05 mg/l).
  • Testing Requirements: Pipes undergo tests per IS 12235 series, including:
    • Extractability of heavy metals (cadmium, mercury)
    • Sulphated ash content (Clause 10.7) to check inorganic residues after combustion
    • Internal hydrostatic pressure tests to ensure integrity
  • Marking & Identification: Pipes are color-coded by class to ensure correct application and traceability.

This comprehensive approach aligns with ISO 4422, ensuring pipes do not leach harmful chemicals into potable water, maintaining public health safety.

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?What testing procedures are required to ensure pipe performance and durability?

IS 4985 Testing Procedures for Pipe Performance and Durability

  1. Type Tests (Clause 2.1):

    • Required when introducing a new polymer composition or pipe size.
    • Includes tests per Clauses 10.2, 10.3, and 11.1 (hydrostatic test).
  2. Effect on Water Test (Clause 2.1.2):

    • Manufacturer supplies 3 samples (smallest size) from each machine.
    • If any sample fails, up to 3 more samples tested.
    • Failure in repeat test leads to rejection and redesign.
  3. Hydrostatic Pressure Test (Clause 11.1, Table 6):

    • Conducted ≥24 hours post-manufacture per IS 12235 (Part 8).
    • Type Test:
      • Temp: 60°C
      • Duration: 1000 hours
      • Pressure: 1.16 × PN (Nominal Pressure) MPa
    • Acceptance Test:
      • Temp: 27°C
      • Duration: 1 hour
      • Pressure: 4.19 × PN MPa
    • No failure allowed during tests.

Summary Table: Hydrostatic Pressure Test Parameters

Test TypeTemperature (°C)Duration (hours)Pressure (MPa)
Type Test6010001.16 × PN
Acceptance Test2714.19 × PN

These tests ensure pipe durability, pressure resistance, and safety before approval and use.

?What marking information must be present on pipes according to this standard?

According to IS 4985, pipes must be clearly and indelibly marked at intervals not exceeding 3 meters with the following information:

  • Manufacturer's name or trade-mark
  • Outside diameter
  • Class of pipe and pressure rating
  • Batch or lot number
  • The word "plumbing" (for plumbing pipes only)

Marking details:

  • Markings should be in ink/paint or hot embossed on a white base.
  • For plumbing pipes, markings must be in pink colour (Clause 13.1.2).
  • Inkjet printing in any contrasting colour is also permitted.
  • Pipes may also carry the Standard Mark (Clause 13.2.1).

This ensures traceability, size identification, and pressure class visibility for safe and compliant use.

?Can recycled or reworked materials be used in manufacturing UPVC pipes for potable water?

According to IS 4985:2000 Clause 6.1, UPVC pipes for potable water must be made substantially of unplasticized polyvinyl chloride with only additives permitted by IS 10148. These additives:

  • Must not create toxic, organoleptic, or microbial hazards.
  • Should not impair fabrication, welding, or mechanical properties (especially long-term strength and impact resistance).
  • Must be uniformly dispersed.

Recycled or reworked materials are not explicitly permitted if they compromise these requirements. The standard emphasizes sound, durable pipes with good surface finish and mechanical integrity.

Summary:

  • Use virgin UPVC resin primarily.
  • Only approved additives per IS 10148.
  • Recycled/reworked materials are generally not recommended unless they meet all safety and performance criteria.

This ensures safety and durability for potable water applications.

?What are the pressure and temperature ratings specified for these pipes?

IS 4985 Pressure and Temperature Ratings for Pipes:

  • Temperature Range: Recommended for water temperatures +1°C to +45°C (Clause 8.6).
  • Safe Working Stress: Maximum 8.6 MPa at 27°C; strength reduces above 27°C, so working pressure must be adjusted per Fig. I (Clause 8.6).
  • Pressure Classes at 27°C (Clause 5.1):
ClassWorking Pressure (PN)
10.25 MPa
20.4 MPa
30.6 MPa
40.8 MPa
51.0 MPa
61.25 MPa
  • Hydrostatic Test Pressures (Clause 11.1, Table 6):
Test TypeTemp (°C)Duration (h)Test Pressure (MPa)
Type Test6010001.16 × PN
Acceptance Test2714.19 × PN
  • Plumbing Pipes: Acceptance test pressure at 27°C is 3.6 MPa for 1 hour (Clause 11.1.1), as these have thicker walls for rigidity, not higher pressure.

Summary:
Use pipes within 1–45°C; working pressure depends on class (0.25 to 1.25 MPa at 27°C). Adjust pressure for temperature >27°C. Hydrostatic tests ensure pipe integrity at elevated pressures and durations.

?How are socket ends designed and tested for joint integrity?

Design of Socket Ends (IS 4985 - Clause 7.2.1.2):

  • Dimensions: Sockets must follow Table 4 and Fig. 4.

  • Wall Thickness: Minimum wall thickness (including ring groove and neck e3) ≥ minimum wall thickness of the plain pipe (Table 1).

  • Inside Diameter (d): Measured at mid-depth of engagement (m).

  • Minimum Depth of Engagement (m):

    • For d < 280 mm:
      [ m > 50 \text{ mm} + 0.22 \times d_a ]
    • For d ≥ 280 mm:
      [ m > 70 \text{ mm} + 0.15 \times d ] (Round up to next integer; see Table 5 and Fig. 5)
  • Groove Diameter: Must ensure joint meets pressure rating (Table 6).

  • Parallelism: Socket ends must be reasonably parallel to pipe axis (Clause 7.2.1).


Testing for Joint Integrity (Clause 4.19, Table 7):

  • Hydrostatic Pressure Test:
Diameter RangeTest TypeTemp (°C)Duration (h)Min Test Pressure (MPa)
d < 90 mmAcceptance2712.88 × PN
Type2710002.20 × PN
d ≥ 90 mmAcceptance2713.60 × PN
Type2710002.74 × PN
  • PN: Pressure rating of pipe.

Summary:

  • Design socket dimensions and wall thickness as per tables.
  • Ensure minimum depth of engagement using formulas.
  • Test sockets hydrostatically at specified pressures and durations.
  • Maintain socket parallelism for proper sealing ring function.
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