A new ASTM International standard aims to support more effective and innovative ways to join complex connections in storm and sewer pipes. The organization’s plastic piping systems committee (F17) developed the standard (soon to be published as F3202).  

According to ASTM International member John Kurdziel, the new standard will allow for different kinds of thermoplastic products to be used for pipe fittings. Previously, only like materials could effectively be used to connect sewer products, allowing for less innovation and necessitating more maintenance and more elaborate designs.

“Currently, many manholes are needed to accommodate alignment changes. This new standard eliminates problems associated with buckling due to the fabrication difficulties in producing corrugated high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP) fittings,” said Kurdziel. “The new standard allows the use of high-quality, watertight PVC fittings which are more structurally robust and allow for alignment changes without manholes.” 

Currently, he says, the structural design of PP and HPDE fittings is complex due to the profile shapes and angles associated with welding the multiple-wall sections of corrugations. The new standard simplifies this design and permits the use of “solid wall” structure members that can be installed deeper, thus reducing the potential for asymmetric deformations. 

While manholes are still a necessary part of sewer systems, Kurdziel notes that making fewer manholes necessary will create a more efficient and cost-effective sewer system. 

This effort directly relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #6 on clean water and sanitation. 

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Release #10785