IS 6908:1991 specifies requirements for asbestos cement pipes and fittings designed for sewerage and drainage systems operating under gravity flow at atmospheric pressure. It covers classification, dimensions, mechanical properties, jointing methods, and optional tests such as hydraulic pressure and acid resistance. This standard is essential for manufacturers, engineers, and contractors involved in the design, production, inspection, and installation of asbestos cement sewerage pipelines and fittings in India.
Overview
IS 6908:1991 specifies requirements for asbestos cement pipes and fittings designed for sewerage and drainage systems operating under gravity flow at atmospheric pressure. It covers classification, dimensions, mechanical properties, jointing methods, and optional tests such as hydraulic pressure and acid resistance. This standard is essential for manufacturers, engineers, and contractors involved in the design, production, inspection, and installation of asbestos cement sewerage pipelines and fittings in India.
Audience
Contents
Structure
IS 6908: Scope on Dimensions and Tolerances
| Thickness (mm) | On Thickness (mm) | On External Diameter (mm) | On Nominal Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 10 | -1.5 to -2.0 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm | +50 to -20 for 100 to 300 mm |
| Over 10 to 20 | -2.0 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm | +50 to -20 for 100 to 300 mm |
| Over 20 to 30 | -2.5 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter |
| Over 30 to 60 | -3.0 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter |
| Over 60 to 90 | -3.5 | ±1.5 for nominal diameter | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter |
| Over 90 | -4.0 | Not specified | Not specified |
flowchart LR
A[Wall Thickness] -->|Tolerance| B[-1.5 to -4.0 mm]
C[External Diameter] -->|Tolerance| D[±1.0 to ±1.5 mm]
E[Nominal Length] -->|Tolerance| F[+50 to -40 mm]
style A fill:#f9f,stroke:#333,stroke-width:1px
style C fill:#bbf,stroke:#333,stroke
IS 6908: Key Specifications on Dimensional Tolerances (Clause 3.4.4)
| Thickness (mm) | Permissible Deviation on Thickness (mm) | On External Diameter (mm) | On Nominal Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to and including 10 | -1.5 to -2.0 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm diameter | +50 to -20 for 100 to 300 mm length |
| Over 10 to 20 | -2.0 to -2.5 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm diameter | +50 to -20 for 100 to 300 mm length |
| Over 20 to 30 | -2.5 to -3.0 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm diameter | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter >300 mm |
| Over 30 to 60 | -3.0 to -3.5 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm diameter | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter >300 mm |
| Over 60 to 90 | -3.5 to -4.0 | ±1.5 for nominal diameter | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter >300 mm |
| Over 90 | -4.0 | ±1.5 for nominal diameter | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter >300 mm |
This table ensures pipes meet strict manufacturing tolerances for thickness, diameter, and length to guarantee fit and performance.
flowchart LR
A[Manufacturer's Stated Dimensions] --> B[Check Thickness Tolerance]
B -->|Within Permissible Deviation| C[Check External Diameter]
C -->|Within Permissible Deviation| D[Check Nominal Length]
D -->|Within Permissible Deviation| E[Accept Pipe]
B -->|Out of Tolerance|
IS 6908: Classification of Pipes by Crushing Strength
Ultimate Crushing Load (UCL) per meter length = Load per unit area × Nominal Diameter (m)
Where load per unit area for classes:
Minimum crushing load at rupture ≥ 15 kN/m
| Nominal Diameter (mm) | Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100 - 125 | 15.0 | 15.0 | 15.0 |
| 150 | 15.0 | 15.0 | 17.5 |
| 200 | 15.0 | 17.5 | 25.0 |
| 250 | 15.0 | 22.5 | 30.0 |
| 300 | 17.5 | 27.5 | 35.0 |
| ... | ... | ... | ... |
| 1000 | 60.0 | 90.0 | 120.0 |
Note: For diameters/classes outside this table, dimensions must be mutually agreed.
flowchart TD
A[Nominal Diameter (m)] --> B[Load per unit area (kN/m²)]
B --> C[Ultimate Crushing Load (kN/m)]
C --> D{Compare with Table 1}
D -->|≥ Min Load| E[Accept Class]
D -->|< Min Load| F[Review Design]
This classification ensures pipes withstand expected loads during installation and operation safely.
IS 6908: Dimensions and Geometrical Characteristics
| Thickness (mm) | On Thickness (mm) | On External Diameter (mm) | On Nominal Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to and including 10 | -1.57 | +50 / -20 for 100 to 300 mm diameter | +50 / -20 |
| Over 10 to 20 | -2.0 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm diameter | Not specified |
| Over 20 to 30 | -2.5 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm diameter | Not specified |
| Over 30 to 60 | -3.0 | +50 / -40 for nominal diameter > 300 mm | +50 / -40 |
| Over 60 to 90 | -3.5 | Nominal diameter | Not specified |
| Over 90 | -4.0 | Not specified | Not specified |
flowchart TD
A[Manufacturer's Catalogue] --> B[Main Dimensions]
B --> C[Thickness Tolerances]
B --> D[External Diameter Tolerances]
B --> E[Nominal Length Tolerances]
C --> F[Table 2: Thickness Deviations]
D --> G[Table 2: Diameter Deviations]
E --> H[Table 2: Length Deviations]
For detailed design, always refer to the manufacturer's catalogue and IS 6908 Table 2 for precise tolerances.
IS 6908 – Jointing of Asbestos Cement Pipes
Hydrostatic Pressure Test (Clause 5.4):
Joint must withstand 0.25 MPa (2.5 bar) internal pressure per IS 5913:1989, even at max angular deviation.
Rubber Rings (Clause 5.3):
Must comply with IS 5382:1985 and be compatible with the joint type.
Material Standards (Clause 5.2):
| Joint Type | Sealing Element | Material Standard | Pressure Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asbestos Cement Coupling | Rubber Ring | IS 6908 Clause 3.1 | 0.25 MPa |
| Cast Iron Detachable | Rubber Ring + Bolts | IS 8794:1988 | 0.25 MPa |
flowchart LR
A[Pipe Ends] --> B[Rubber Sealing Ring]
B --> C[Coupling / Cast Iron Joint]
C --> D[Bolts & Nuts (for cast iron)]
D --> E[Joint Assembly]
E --> F[Hydrostatic Pressure Test @ 0.25 MPa]
This ensures leak-tight, pressure-resistant joints suitable for asbestos cement pipelines.
IS 6908: Sampling and Testing Key Points
| Property | Test Method | Acceptance Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | Tensile test (IS 1608) | As per specified grade |
| Yield Strength | Tensile test | Minimum yield strength specified |
| Elongation | Tensile test | Minimum % elongation specified |
| Chemical Composition | Spectrochemical analysis | Within specified elemental limits |
| Dimensions | Vernier caliper/micrometer | Within tolerance limits |
flowchart LR
A[Sample Collection] --> B{Before or After Delivery?}
B -->|Before| C[Sample taken pre-delivery]
B -->|After| D[Sample taken post-delivery]
C & D --> E[Testing as per IS 6908]
E --> F{Test Results}
F -->|Pass| G[Batch Accepted]
F -->|Fail| H[Retesting or Rejection]
Summary:
Ensure sampling is representative and timely. Testing covers physical, mechanical, and chemical properties. Acceptance depends on conformity with IS 6908 criteria.
IS 6908: Criteria for Acceptance
| Thickness (mm) | Permissible Deviation on Thickness (mm) | On External Diameter (mm) | On Nominal Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to and including 10 | -1.5 to -2.0 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm nominal diameter | +50 to -20 for 100 to 300 mm |
| Over 10 to 20 | -2.0 to -2.5 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm nominal diameter | +50 to -20 for 100 to 300 mm |
| Over 20 to 30 | -2.5 to -3.0 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm nominal diameter | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter > 300 mm |
| Over 30 to 60 | -3.0 to -3.5 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm nominal diameter | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter > 300 mm |
| Over 60 to 90 | -3.5 to -4.0 | ±1.5 for nominal diameter | +50 to -40 for nominal diameter > 300 mm |
| Over 90 | -4.0 | Not specified | Not specified |
flowchart LR
A[Sample Taken]
Manufacturer's Certificate - IS 6908 Key Points
Clause 8.1:
The manufacturer must ensure pipes/fittings conform to IS 6908 requirements and provide a certificate stating the class of pipes/fittings to the purchaser.
Dimensional Tolerances (Clause 3.4.4, Table 2):
Permissible deviations on thickness, external diameter, and nominal length are as follows:
| Thickness (mm) | Thickness Deviation (mm) | External Diameter Deviation (mm) | Nominal Length Deviation (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 10 | -1.5 | +0.5 for 100 to -2.0 for 300 mm | +50 |
| Over 10 to 20 | -2.0 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm nominal diameter | -20 |
| Over 20 to 30 | -2.5 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm nominal diameter | +50 |
| Over 30 to 60 | -3.0 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm nominal diameter | +40 |
| Over 60 to 90 | -3.5 | ±1.5 for nominal diameter | |
| Over 90 | -4.0 | - |
Main Dimensions (Clause 4.4.1):
Must comply with the manufacturer's catalogue.
Testing (Clause 7.2.1):
Tests per Clauses 3.5 and 4.5 on samples selected as per Clause 9.
flowchart TD
A[Manufacture Pipes/Fittings] --> B[Conduct Tests (Clauses 3.5 & 4.5)]
B --> C[Check Dimensions per Catalogue & Table 2]
C --> D[Verify Compliance with IS 6908]
D --> E[Issue Manufacturer's Certificate]
IS 6908: Inspection by Sampling Summary
Reference Standard: Sampling, inspection, and acceptance follow IS 7639:1975.
Inspection Lot Definition:
| Diameter Range (mm) | Max Lot Size | Min Lot Size |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 100 | 800 pipes | 200 pipes |
| 125 to 250 | 400 pipes | 100 pipes |
| 300 and above | 200 pipes | 100 pipes |
Sampling Procedure:
Acceptance Criteria:
flowchart TD
A[Inspection Lot] --> B{Diameter?}
B -->|Up to 100 mm| C[Lot: 200-800 pipes]
B -->|125 to 250 mm| D[Lot: 100-400 pipes]
B -->|300 mm and above| E[Lot: 100-200 pipes]
C --> F[Sampling per IS 7639]
D --> F
E --> F
F --> G{Acceptance Criteria}
G -->|Pass| H[Accept Lot]
G -->|Fail| I[Reject Lot / Re-inspection]
For detailed sampling plans and acceptance numbers, refer to IS 7639:1975.
IS 6908: Marking of Pipes and Fittings (Clauses 10.1 & 10.1.1)
Pipes and fittings must be legibly and indelibly marked with:
| Thickness (mm) | Permissible Deviation on Thickness (mm) | Permissible Deviation on External Diameter (mm) | Permissible Deviation on Nominal Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to and including 10 | -1.57 to -2.0 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm | +50 to -20 |
| Over 10 to 20 | -2.0 to -2.5 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm | +50 to -20 |
| Over 20 to 30 | -2.5 to -3.0 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm | +50 to -40 |
| Over 30 to 60 | -3.0 to -3.5 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm | +50 to -40 |
| Over 60 to 90 | -3.5 to -4.0 | ±1.5 for nominal diameter | +50 to -40 |
| Over 90 | -4.0 | Not specified | Not specified |
graph LR
A[Pipe/Fitting] --> B[Manufacturer's Name/Trade-mark]
A --> C[Date of Manufacture]
A --> D[Nominal Diameter]
A --> E[Class of Pipe/Fitting]
A --> F[Pictorial Warning Sign (IS 12081 Pt 2)]
A --> G[Standard Mark (Optional)]
Note: Markings ensure traceability, quality
IS 6908 - Safety Rules Sheet (Clause 11)
Requirement:
All deliveries of asbestos cement pipes and fittings must be accompanied by a Safety Rules Sheet as per IS 11769 (Part 1): 1987.
Purpose:
To ensure safe handling, transportation, storage, and installation of asbestos cement pipes and fittings, protecting workers and users.
Key Points (Typical Safety Rules):
Marking:
Each pipe/fitting may bear the Standard Mark (Clause 10.1.1) ensuring conformity.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Standard for Safety Sheet | IS 11769 (Part 1): 1987 |
| Applicability | Asbestos cement pipes & fittings |
| Purpose | Safe handling & installation |
flowchart TD
A[Receive Pipes & Fittings] --> B[Check for Safety Rules Sheet]
B --> C{Safety Gear Available?}
C -- Yes --> D[Handle Pipes Carefully]
C -- No --> E[Procure Safety Gear]
D --> F[Store Properly]
F --> G[Install Pipes]
G --> H[Clean Work Area Safely]
H --> I[Dispose Waste Properly]
For detailed safety rules, always refer to IS 11769 (Part 1): 1987 along with IS 6908.
The Technical Committee for Cement and Concrete (CED 2) comprises experts from diverse organizations related to cement, concrete, construction, and research. Key points:
Chairman: Dr. H.C. Visvesvaraya (University of Roorkee)
Members: Representatives from:
Alternate members are nominated for most representatives to ensure continuity.
If you need formulas or tables related to physical, mechanical, or chemical characteristics (Clauses 3.5, 4.5), please specify, as the committee composition itself does not include formulas.
graph TD
A[Technical Committee CED 2] --> B[Chairman: Dr. H.C. Visvesvaraya]
A --> C[Members]
C --> D[Cement Industry]
C --> E[Government Departments]
C --> F[Research Institutes]
C --> G[Industry Bodies]
C --> H[Testing & Standards]
C --> I[Engineering Consultants]
This structure ensures diverse expertise for standard development and review.
Frequently Asked
Classification Criteria for Asbestos Cement Pipes under IS 6908 (1991):
IS 6908 classifies asbestos cement pipes primarily based on their intended application and mechanical strength, especially for sewerage and drainage under gravity flow at atmospheric pressure.
Material Composition: Pipes are made from a homogeneous mix of:
Application: Pipes are intended for:
Mechanical Properties: Classification involves:
Dimensions and Tolerances: Pipes are classified by their dimensional tolerances and acceptance criteria.
| Classification Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Composition | Asbestos fiber + OPC/PSC/PPC + water |
| Application | Gravity sewerage/drainage, non-pressure |
| Mechanical Strength | Crushing load, bending strength, etc. |
| Testing | Optional hydraulic pressure and acid resistance tests |
| Dimensional Tolerances | Specified per pipe class |
For detailed mechanical strength values and dimensional classes, refer to IS 6908 tables on crushing strength and pipe dimensions.
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IS 6908: Dimensions and Tolerances for Pipes and Fittings
Size Designation: Pipes are sized by nominal internal diameter (mm) (Clause 3.4.1).
Dimensional Tolerances (Clause 3.4.4, Table 2):
| Wall Thickness (mm) | Thickness Tolerance (mm) | External Diameter Tolerance (mm) | Nominal Length Tolerance (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Up to 10 | -1.57 | +50 for 100 mm to -20 for 300 mm nominal diameter | ±50 |
| >10 to 20 | -2.0 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm nominal diameter | ±50 |
| >20 to 30 | -2.5 | ±1.0 for 100 to 700 mm nominal diameter | ±50 |
| >30 to 60 | -3.0 | ±1.5 for 750 to 1000 mm nominal diameter | +50 to -40 |
| >60 to 90 | -3.5 | ±1.5 for nominal diameter | +50 to -40 |
| Over 90 | -4.0 | Not specified | Not specified |
Fittings: Tolerances on fittings made from pipes correspond to those of pipes with the same wall thickness (Clause 3.4.4 Note).
Inspection: Finish, marking, dimensions, and tolerances can be verified on each item or by sampling as per purchaser's request (Clause 7.1.1).
This ensures uniformity and interchangeability of pipes and fittings in construction and industrial applications.
Recommended Joints for Asbestos Cement Sewerage Pipes (IS 6908):
Types of Joints (Clause 5.1):
Material Requirements:
Performance:
| Joint Type | Sealing Method | Standard Reference | Pressure Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asbestos cement coupling | Rubber sealing ring | Pipe composition (3.1) | 0.25 MPa |
| Cast iron detachable joint | Rubber ring + bolts | IS 8794:1988 | 0.25 MPa |
Loading diagram...
This ensures leak-proof, durable joints suitable for sewerage applications.
According to IS 6908:
| Test | Mandatory? | Test Pressure/Limit | Reference Clause |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hydraulic Pressure | Optional | 0.25 MPa | 3.5.1, 4.5.1 |
| Acid Resistance | Optional | Acetic acid neutralized ≤ 0.100 g/cm² | 3.5.4, 4.5.3 |
Conclusion: These tests are not mandatory but may be conducted as per project requirements or quality assurance needs.
According to IS 6908 Clause 10.1, pipes and fittings must be legibly and indelibly marked with:
Additionally, per Clause 10.1.1, the Standard Mark may also be included.
Key points:
This marking system helps users identify pipe specifications and safety warnings easily on-site.
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