A new standard approved by ASTM International’s F17 plastic piping systems committee will aid in the design of fabricated pipe fittings made from cross-linked polyethylene (CX-PE). The standard will soon be published as F3525.

Part of a series of initiatives to develop standards applicable to the specification and construction of CX-PE piping systems, F3525 “is intended for manufacturers of fittings that will be used for large-scale utility, commercial, and industrial projects,” said Robert Samplonius, Laboratory Manager at Kafrit NA Ltd. and ASTM member.

“This standard will support the development of improved infrastructure, added Samplonius. “CX-PE piping has clear advantages when used to transfer hot water, which could help make utility projects more economical and energy efficient.”

This effort directly relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure, among others, said ASTM.

The subcommittee that developed the standard is working on other proposed CX-PE standards, such as a practice for commissioning constructed CX-PE piping systems. ASTM invites interested parties to join in developing these proposed standards.