ISO 13955:1997/Amd 1:2020

Overview

ISO 13955:1997/Amd 1:2020 is an important amendment to the international standard covering plastics pipes and fittings, specifically addressing the crushing decohesion test for polyethylene (PE) electrofusion assemblies. Originally published in 1997, this amendment issued in 2020 updates normative references and testing procedures to enhance the reliability and quality assessment of PE electrofusion joints used in fluid transport systems. Developed by ISO/TC 138 and its subcommittee SC 5, this standard focuses on mechanical testing protocols essential for ensuring the structural integrity of electrofusion welded polyethylene pipe joints, which are widely used in water, gas, and chemical distribution networks.

Key Topics

• Crushing Decohesion Test
  The core of ISO 13955:1997/Amd 1:2020 is the standardized method for performing the crushing decohesion test. This mechanical test assesses the resistance of electrofusion joints to crushing forces, ensuring that the fusion assembly maintains cohesion under mechanical stress.

• Electrofusion Assemblies in Polyethylene (PE)
  The standard specifies testing methods for electrofusion joints in PE pipes and fittings, a common technique used to join plastic pipes by heating embedded coils inside fittings to create a fused connection.

• Updated Normative References
  Amendment 1 updates references such as ISO 11413, which relates to the preparation of test specimens through electrofusion assembly, ensuring harmonized and up-to-date testing processes.

• ISO/IEC Directives Compliance
  The document is drafted in accordance with ISO/IEC directives to maintain consistency in international standard development and approval processes.

Applications

• Water and Gas Distribution Systems
  The standard is crucial for manufacturers and testers of polyethylene pipe systems used in drinking water and natural gas supply, ensuring joint strength and reliability to prevent leaks and failures.

• Industrial Fluid Transport
  Used in chemical and industrial pipeline systems, the crushing decohesion test validates electrofusion joints where safety and durability are critical.

• Quality Assurance and Control
  Laboratories and quality control departments utilize this standard to certify electrofusion weld integrity before installation, reducing risk of premature pipeline failures.

• Regulatory Compliance
  Compliance with ISO 13955:1997/Amd 1:2020 supports meeting national and international regulatory requirements for plastic piping systems.

Related Standards

• ISO 11413: Preparation of Test Specimens
  Specifies how to prepare test assemblies involving PE pipes and fittings for electrofusion, referenced in ISO 13955 Amendment 1.

• ISO 13857 - Safety Distances
  Related to safety requirements for machinery involved in pipe assembly and testing.

• ISO 11299 - General Specifications for Plastics Pipes
  Provides broader specifications, complementing testing standards like ISO 13955.

• IEC Standards for Electrotechnical Compatibility
  Given the electrofusion process involves electrical components, coordination with IEC standards is important for electrical safety.

Adoption of ISO 13955:1997/Amd 1:2020 enhances the accuracy and consistency of mechanical testing for polyethylene electrofusion assemblies, supporting the production of high-quality plastic piping systems for fluid transport. This amendment ensures updated testing references and aligns international practices, contributing to safer and more durable pipeline infrastructures worldwide.