IS SP Part 21 (2005) provides comprehensive summaries of Indian Standards related to building materials, covering specifications, testing methods, dimensions, tolerances, and performance requirements for a wide range of construction products. It serves as an essential reference for engineers, architects, and construction professionals seeking to understand applicable standards for materials such as bricks, pipes, cables, particle boards, and manhole covers, facilitating informed selection and compliance in building projects.
Overview
IS SP Part 21 (2005) provides comprehensive summaries of Indian Standards related to building materials, covering specifications, testing methods, dimensions, tolerances, and performance requirements for a wide range of construction products. It serves as an essential reference for engineers, architects, and construction professionals seeking to understand applicable standards for materials such as bricks, pipes, cables, particle boards, and manhole covers, facilitating informed selection and compliance in building projects.
Audience
Contents
Structure
Scope Summary from IS SP Part 21
Clause 4.3 (Dimensions): Refer to Table 1 for standard dimensional data of structural elements.
Clause 10.0 (Masses): Mass values are detailed in Tables 1 to 4 for different profiles and sizes.
Clause 2.1 (Designation Table): Lists standard designations with dimensions (e.g., 110(5), 100(4), 80(4.5), etc.), where numbers denote size and thickness in mm.
Clause 8.0 (Dimensions Table): Provides dimensions for various sizes (e.g., 175, 200, 225 mm) with corresponding thickness options (3.65 to 12.5 mm).
| Size (mm) | Width (mm) | Thickness Options (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 175 | 193.7 | 3.65, 4.5, 4.85, 5.4, 6.35, 7.0, 9.5 |
| 200 | 291.1 | 4.85, 5.4, 6.35, 7.1, 8.0, 9.5, 11.0, 12.5 |
| 225 | 244.5 | 5.9, 7.1, 8.0, 9.5 |
| 250 | 273.0 | 5.9, 6.35, 7.1, 8.0, 9.5, 11.0, 12.5 |
flowchart LR
A[Designation] --> B[Refer Table 1 for Dimensions]
B --> C[Select Thickness & Width from Clause 8.0 Table]
C --> D[Check Masses in Tables 1-4]
D --> E[Use for Structural Design]
This concise scope helps in selecting standard sizes and thickness
| Grade | C (Max %) | Mn (Max %) | S (Max %) | P (Max %) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fe 290 | 0.25 | 1.25 | 0.055 | 0.055 |
| Fe 330 | 0.25 | 1.25 | 0.055 | 0.055 |
| Fe 370 | 0.25 | 1.25 | 0.055 | 0.055 |
| Grade | Tensile Strength (MPa) | Yield Stress Min (MPa) | Elongation % (5.65√So) | Internal Bend Diameter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fe 290 | 290 - 390 | 165 | 23 | 2t |
| Fe 330 | 330 - 430 | 170 | 23 | 3t |
| Fe 370 | 370 - 470 | 215 | 23 | 3t |
| Grade | C (Max %) | Mn (Max %) | S (Max %) | P (Max %) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| O | 0.15 | 0.60 | 0.055 | 0.055 |
| D | 0.12 | 0.50 | 0.040 | 0.040 |
| DD | 0.10 | 0.45 | 0.035 | 0.035 |
| EDD | 0.08 | 0.40 | 0.030 | 0.030 |
Permissible Variation (Max %):
| Element | Variation |
|---|---|
| Carbon | 0.02 |
| Manganese | 0.03 |
IS SP Part 21: Dimensions and Tolerances
Based on Clauses 2.3, 2.7, 2.8, and 2.9, the key points for Dimensions and Tolerances are:
| Dimension | Tolerance (±) |
|---|---|
| Depth (d) | 2 mm |
| Width (b) | 2 mm |
| Thickness (t) | 0.3 mm to 0.5 mm |
| Length (L) | ±10 mm |
| Parameter | Tolerance Range |
|---|---|
| Depth (d) | ±2 mm |
| Width (b) | ±2 mm |
| Thickness (t) | ±0.3 to 0.5 mm |
| Length (L) | ±10 mm |
| Angular Deviation | ±1° to ±2° |
| Straightness | ≤ 1/1000 of length |
flowchart LR
A[Nominal Dimension] --> B[Manufacturing]
B --> C[Dimensional Tolerance Applied]
C --> D[Final Product Dimension]
D --> E[Fit & Interchangeability]
This ensures structural steel members conform to IS standards for safe and reliable construction.
IS SP Part 21: Key Physical & Mechanical Requirements
| Property | Type V (MPa) | Type VI (MPa) |
|---|---|---|
| Min. Tensile Strength | 200 | 100 |
| Min. Static Bending Strength | 200 | 90 |
| Min. Compressive Strength (20×20×20mm) | ||
| - Parallel to Laminae | 100 | 120 |
| - Perpendicular to Laminae | 70 | 150 |
| Min. Shear Strength | ||
| - Parallel to Grain/Laminae (Edgewise) | 14 | 20 |
| - Perpendicular to Grain/Laminae | 35 | 30 |
| Min. Hardness (Rockwell H scale) | 70 | 80 |
| Min. Impact Strength (Izod, kg.m/cm²) | ||
| - Perpendicular to Laminae | - | 0.20 |
| - Parallel to Laminae | - | 0.50 |
| Property | Value/Limit |
|---|---|
| Density (kg/m³) | 400 ± 10% |
| Moisture Content (%) | Max 16 |
| Modulus of Rupture (N/mm²) | Min 1.5 |
| Swelling (2 hr immersion) (%) | Max 5 |
| Thermal Conductivity (kcal/cm·s·°C) | 0.1 to 0.5 (freq. dependent) |
| Sound Absorption Coefficient | 0.2 to 0.5 |
| Fire Ignitability | Not easily ignitable |
| Surface Flame Spread | Not lower than class 2 |
| Polymer Type | Tensile Strength (MPa, Min) | Elongation at Break (%) Min | |-----------------------|-----------------------------
IS SP Part 21: Testing Methods - Key Formulas, Tables & Specs
| Type | Size (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Test Load (kg) | Test Span (mm) | Max Deflection (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2000×500 | 25 | 100 | 45 | 6 |
| 1220×610 | 25 | 165 | 27.5 | 6 | |
| 2000×500 | 40 | 90 | 75 | 6 | |
| 1220×610 | 50 | 90 | 75 | 6 | |
| 75 | 120 | 75 | 5 | ||
| 100 | 150 | 75 | 5 | ||
| 2 | 2000×500 | 40 | 120 | 75 | 6 |
| 1220×610 | 50 | 160 | 75 | 6 | |
| 75 | 240 | 75 | 5 |
| Frequency (Hz) | Min Sound Absorption Coefficient (25 mm thick slab with rigid backing) |
|---|---|
| 125 | 0.1 |
| 250 | 0.2 |
| 500 | 0 |
IS SP Part 21: Performance Criteria Summary
| Type | Size (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Test Load (kg) | Test Span (mm) | Max Deflection (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2000×500 | 25 | 100 | 45 | 6 |
| 1 | 1220×610 | 25 | 165 | 27.5 | 6 |
| 2 | 2000×500 | 40 | 120 | 75 | 6 |
| Frequency (Hz) | Absorption Coefficient |
|---|---|
| 125 | 0.1 |
| 250 | 0.2 |
| 500 | 0.2 |
| 1000 | 0.3 |
| 2000 | 0.5 |
| 4000 | 0.5 |
| Thickness (mm) | Weight (kg) (approx.) |
|---|---|
| 12 | 5 |
| 25 | 11 |
| 50 | 16 |
| 75 | 22 |
| 100 | 27.5 |
graph LR
A[Type & Size] --> B[Test Load & Span]
B --> C[Max Deflection Limit]
C --> D[Performance Compliance]
For
Designation System (Clause 2.1):
The product is identified by a five-block code separated by asterisks *:
Block 1* Block 2* Block 3* Block 4* Block 5*
Block 1: IS specification number (e.g., IS SP Part 21)
Block 2: Product general description
Format: PC + number of layers + cross-section type + surface texture
Example: PC2NP (Polycarbonate, 2 layers, hollow N-profile, polished surface)
Refer Table 1 for codes.
Block 3: Material and surface properties (4 letters)
1st: Light stabilization (L/X/O)
2nd: Coating (H/U/O)
3rd: Transparency (T/R/Q/O)
4th: Colour (C/N/O)
Example: LHQC = Light stabilized, Hard coating, Transparent, Coloured
Refer Table 2.
Block 4: Four digits representing:
Block 5: Additional specific performance (optional)
Codes:
| Block 2 (Product Description) | Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Layers | 1-4 | Number of layers |
| Cross-section | S/N/R/T/O | Solid/Hollow profiles |
| Texture | R/F/C/P/O | Ribbed/Fine/Coarse/Polished/Not specified |
| Block 3 (Material Properties) | Code | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Light Stabilization | L/X/O | Yes/No/Not specified |
| Coating | H/U/O |
| Service Condition | Timber Used | Preservative Type | Mode of Treatment | Minimum Retention (kg/m³) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marine structures exposed to marine borers (IS 710:1976) | All | Type 1 (Creosote or Creosote-fuel oil 50:50) | Pressure process | 200.0 |
| Concrete shuttering plywood (IS 4990:1993) | All | Type 4 (Copper Chrome Arsenic or Acid Copper Chrome) | Pressure process | 12.0 |
| Outer cladding, roofing, exposed to weather (IS 303:1989 BWR Grade) | All | Type 4 (CCA or ACC) | Veneer treatment | 12.0 |
| Bus/rail flooring (IS 303:1989 BWR Grade) | All | Type 4 or Type 1 | Pressure process | 7.5 - 75.0 |
| Interior plywood (dry localities) | All | Type 2, 3 or 4 | Pressure or soaking | 4.0 |
| Timber Species | Sapwood Penetration | Heartwood Penetration |
|---|---|---|
| Abies pindrow | 100% | 5 mm* |
| Cedrus deodara | 100% | 10 mm |
| Picea smithiana | 100% | 5 mm* |
| Pinus kesiya | 100% | 20 mm |
| Pinus roxburghii | 100% | 20 mm |
| Pinus wallichiana | 100% | 10 mm |
| Tectona grandis | 100% | No treatment needed |
*Incision of ~15 mm recommended on structural members for absorption.
IS SP Part 21: Installation and Application Guidelines - Key Formulas & Tables
Maximum allowable deflection for various sheet types, sizes, and thicknesses under specified test loads and spans:
| Type | Size (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Test Load (kg) | Test Span (mm) | Max Deflection (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2000×500 | 25 | 100 | 45 | 6 |
| 1 | 1220×610 | 25 | 165 | 27.5 | 6 |
| 1 | 2000×500 | 40 | 90 | 75 | 6 |
| 1 | 1220×610 | 50 | 90 | 75 | 6 |
| 1 | - | 75 | 120 | 75 | 5 |
| 1 | - | 100 | 150 | 75 | 5 |
| 2 | 2000×500 | 40 | 120 | 75 | 6 |
| 2 | 1220×610 | 50 | 160 | 75 | 6 |
| 2 | - | 75 | 240 | 75 | 5 |
| Characteristic | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bitumen Content | ≤ 50 ± 5% |
| Uniformity of Impregnation | Variation ≤ 5% between outer & central layers |
| Ash Content | ≤ 10% |
| Breaking Load | ≥ 100 kg (1000 N) minimum |
| Water Absorption | ≤ 8% |
| Impermeability | No moisture visible on underside |
| Impact Resistance | No tearing, cracking; recovers from deflection |
| Accelerated Weathering | No cracks, color change, or flexibility loss |
| Temperature |
IS SP Part 21: Sampling and Inspection - Key Points
| Constituent | Max Specified Range (%) | Permissible Variation (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon | ≤ 0.25 | ±0.02 |
| Carbon | > 0.25 | ±0.03 |
| Manganese | - | ±0.03 |
| Phosphorus | - | ±0.005 |
| Sulphur | - | ±0.005 |
| Silicon | - | ±0.03 |
| Classification | Surface Defects (mm²) | Inclusion Defects (mm²) |
|---|---|---|
| Negligible | < 2 | < 1 |
| Acceptable | 2 to 5 | 1 to 4 |
flowchart TD
A[Sampling] --> B[Product Analysis]
B --> C{Within Permissible Variation?}
C -- Yes --> D[Check Defects]
C -- No --> E[Reject / Reprocess]
D --> F{Defects Acceptable?}
F -- Yes --> G[Accept Material]
F -- No --> E
This ensures material quality meets IS standards for chemical composition and surface integrity.
Clause 4.3 - Covering Strength
| Aspect | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sheet Sizes | 1200×750 mm, 1800×900 mm |
| Thickness | 3, 4, 5 mm |
| Mass Tolerance | ±0.2 kg (see Table 2 below) |
| Covering Paint | Aluminum paint on external surface |
| Packing | According to trade practice to avoid damage, discoloration, deformation |
Table 2: Weight of Sheets
| Size (mm) | Thickness (mm) | Mass (kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 1200×750 | 3 | 3 ± 0.2 |
| 4 | 4 ± 0.2 | |
| 5 | 5 ± 0.2 | |
| 1800×900 | 3 | 5.4 ± 0.2 |
| 4 | 7.2 ± 0.2 | |
| 5 | 9.0 ± 0.2 |
| Property | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Bitumen Content | ≤ 50 ± 5% |
| Uniformity of Impregnation | Variation ≤ 5% between layers |
| Ash Content | ≤ 10% |
| Breaking Load | ≥ 100 kg (1000 N) |
| Water Absorption | ≤ 8% |
| Impermeability | No moisture visible on underside |
| Impact Resistance | No tear, break, or crack |
| Wet Load Bearing Capacity |
IS SP Part 21: Safety and Environmental Considerations
Clause 2.1 Table (Designation & Thickness in mm):
This table lists material thicknesses and designations (e.g., 110(5), 80(4.5)) relevant for structural safety. The numbers represent thickness in mm and corresponding strength/designation.
Clause 10.0:
Refer to Tables 1 to 4 for mass values essential for load and safety calculations.
Clause 4.3 (Dimensions):
Dimensions for components are standardized in Table 1 ensuring compatibility and safety.
Clause 3.1 (Openings - Doors, Windows, Ventilators, Fixed Lights):
Specifies standard sizes and types (e.g., 6 HS 20 for doors, 5 HF 6 for fixed lights) crucial for ventilation, emergency exits, and environmental control.
Material Thickness & Strength: Use the thickness/designation table (Clause 2.1) to select materials ensuring structural integrity under environmental loads.
Mass & Load Calculations: Use Tables 1-4 (Clause 10.0) for accurate mass estimation to design safe supports and foundations.
Ventilation & Lighting: Standardized sizes (Clause 3.1) ensure adequate natural ventilation and lighting, reducing energy consumption and improving safety.
| Designation | Thickness (mm) | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| 110 (5) | 5 | High load areas |
| 80 (4) | 4 | Moderate load |
| 30 (2) | 2 | Low load/non-structural |
flowchart TD
A[Material Selection] --> B[Check Thickness (Clause 2.1)]
B --> C[Calculate Mass (Tables 1-4)]
C --> D[Design Openings (Clause 3.1)]
D --> E[Ensure Safety & Environmental Compliance]
Summary: Use Clause 2.1 for material thickness, Clause 10.0 for mass, and Clause 3.1 for openings to ensure safety and environmental standards in design per IS SP Part 21.
IS SP Part 21: Key References and Specifications
Masses: Refer Tables 1 to 4 for mass properties of materials/components. These tables provide standard weights essential for load calculations.
Materials: Clause 6.3 directs to details on materials, including specifications, grades, and properties. This is crucial for selecting appropriate materials in design.
Wall Thickness: Clause 5.2 specifies wall thickness requirements. Refer Tables 3, 4, and 5 for thickness values based on design parameters like pressure, diameter, and material grade.
| Table No. | Content Description |
|---|---|
| Table 1 | Mass of standard components/materials |
| Table 2 | Mass variations by size/type |
| Table 3 | Minimum wall thickness for pipes |
| Table 4 | Wall thickness for pressure ratings |
| Table 5 | Thickness correction factors |
[ t = \frac{P \times D}{2 \times \sigma \times E + P} ]
For detailed design, always cross-check with the exact tables and clauses mentioned in the standard.
IS SP Part 21 - Key Annexures & Tables Summary
| Designation (Density in kg/m³) | Examples: 110(5), 100(4), 90(3.15), 80(4.5), 70(2.5), 60(3.15), 50(2), 45(3.15), 40(2), 35(2), 30(2), 25(1.6) |
| Requirement | Door (mm) | Window >120 cm (mm) | Window <120 cm (mm) | Ventilator (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Width of frame carrying one set of shutter | ||||
| - For 35, 40 mm shutter | 100 | 100 | 90 | 90 |
| - For 25, 30 mm shutter | 90 | 90 | 90 | 90 |
| Width of frame carrying two sets of shutters | ||||
| - For 30, 35, 40 mm shutter | 120 | 120 | 120 | 120 |
| - For 25 mm shutter | 90 | 90 | 90 | 90 |
| Thickness of frame | 60 | 60 | 50 | 50 |
IS SP Part 21: Definitions & Terminology - Key Tables & Specifications
| Nominal Diameter (DN) | Inside Diameter Range (mm) | Tolerance (±mm) |
|---|---|---|
| 200 | 196 – 204 | 1.5 |
| 250 | 246 – 255 | 1.5 |
| 300 | 296 – 306 | 1.8 |
| 350 | 346 – 356 | 2.0 |
| 400 | 396 – 408 | 2.4 |
| ... | ... | ... |
| 2600 | 2595 – 2620 | 6.0 |
| 3000 | 2995 – 3020 | - |
(Full table in the standard; tolerances vary with size)
For detailed design, always cross-check exact values from IS SP Part 21 tables.
flowchart LR
A[Nominal Diameter DN] --> B[Inside Diameter Range (ID)]
B --> C[Tolerance on ID]
A --> D[Designation: Diameter (Thickness)]
A --> E[Mass Tables 1-4]
This diagram shows relationships between key parameters.
Frequently Asked
IS SP Part 21: Dimensions and Tolerances for Common Building Bricks
| Type | Length | Width | Height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modular | 190 | 90 | 90 |
| Modular Thin | 190 | 90 | 40 |
| Non-Modular | 230 | 110 | 70 |
| Non-Modular Thin | 230 | 110 | 30 |
| Special Half/Third Bricks | 70 | 110 | 70 (1/2 length) |
| Dimension | Modular (mm) | Non-Modular (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 3800 ± 80 | 4600 ± 80 |
| Width | 1800 ± 40 | 2200 ± 40 |
| Height | 1800 ± 40 | 1400 ± 40 |
| (for 90 mm height bricks) | 800 ± 40 | (for 70 mm height bricks) 600 ± 40 |
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This ensures proper bonding and uniformity in masonry construction.
Recommended Testing Methods for Mechanical Strength of Pipes and Conduits (IS SP Part 21):
Additional Notes:
| Class | Test Pressure |
|---|---|
| Class 1 | 0.5 MPa (50 m head) |
| Class 2 | 1.0 MPa (100 m head) |
| Class 3 | 1.5 MPa (150 m head) |
| Class 4 | 2.0 MPa (200 m head) |
| Class 5 | 2.5 MPa (250 m head) |
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This comprehensive testing ensures pipes meet mechanical strength and durability requirements per IS standards.
Classification and Grading as per IS SP Part 21:
Low Density Particle Boards (Table 1):
Medium Density Fibre Boards (IS 12406: 2003):
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References:
Performance Requirements for Manhole Covers (IS SP Part 21 / IS 1726:1991)
Manhole covers must satisfy load capacity and durability criteria based on their grade:
| Grade | Test Load (tonnes) | Load in kN | Suitable Location/Traffic |
|---|---|---|---|
| LD-2.5 | 2.5 | 25 | Residential, light motor traffic |
| MD-10 | 10 | 100 | Service lanes, medium vehicular traffic |
| HD-20 | 20 | 200 | Commercial roads, heavy vehicles (5-10 t wheel load) |
| EHD-35 | 35 | 350 | Extra-heavy duty, ports, industrial areas |
Key Points:
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Reference: IS 1726:1991 Table 1 & Clause 4.3 for load test details.
Preservatives and Treatments as per IS SP Part 21 & IS 401:1982
Timber Treatment:
Types of Preservatives:
Relevant Standards:
| Timber Type | Treatment Required | Preservative Type Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Durable species (sapwood) | Yes | Fixed water-soluble (CCA, CCB) or non-leachable solvent-soluble |
| Non-durable species (heartwood & sapwood) | Yes | Same as above |
| All others | Kiln-seasoned | - |
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Note: Always refer to IS 401:1982 for detailed preservative formulations and application methods.
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