EUROPEAN STANDARD NORME EUROPENNE EUROPISCHE NORM

ICS 23.040.20

EN 12007-2

January 2000

English version

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the Central Secretariat or to any CEN member. This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official versions. CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.

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EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION COMIT EUROPEN DE NORMALISATION EUROPISCHES KOMITEE FR NORMUNG

Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart, 36

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2000 CEN

All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CEN national Members.

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This European Standard was approved by CEN on 9 April 1999.

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Systmes d'alimentation en gaz - Canalisations pour pression maximale de service infrieure ou gale 16 bar Partie 2: Recommandations fonctionnelles spcifiques pour le polythylne (MOP infrieure ou gale 10 bar)

Gasversorgungssysteme - Rohrleitungen mit einem maximal zulssigen Betriebsdruck bis einschlielich 16 bar - Teil 2: Besondere funktionale Empfehlungen fr Polyethylen (MOP bis einschlielich 10 bar)

B-1050 Brussels

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Gas supply systems - Pipelines for maximum operating pressure up to and including 16 bar - Part 2: Specific functional recommendations for polyethylene (MOP up to and including 10 bar)

Ref. No. EN 12007-2:2000 E

Page 2 EN 12007-2:2000

Contents Page Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 1 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 2 Normative references . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 3 Definitions and abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 4 Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.2 Materials and components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.3 Maximum operating pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.4 Assembly techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.5 Material properties for flow stopping by squeeze-off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4.6 Pipework inside buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 5 5 6 7 7 7

7 Pressure testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Annex B (INFORMATIVE) Fusion joint integrity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Annex C (INFORMATIVE) Bibliography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

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Annex A (INFORMATIVE) Storage, handling and transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

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6 Quality control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 6.1 Inspection prior to installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 6.2 Inspection during laying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

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5 Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 5.1 Storage, handling and transportation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 5.2 Jointing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 5.3 Laying . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 5.4 Connection to existing systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

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Page 3 EN 12007-2:2000 Foreword This European Standard has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 234 "Gas supply", the secretariat of which is held by DIN. This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by July 2000, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the latest by July 2000. According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. There is a complete suite of functional standards prepared by CEN/TC 234 "Gas Supply" to cover all parts of the gas supply system from the input of gas to the transport system up to the inlet connection of the gas appliances,whether for domestic, commercial or industrial purposes. In preparing this standard a basic understanding of gas supply by the user has been assumed. Gas supply systems are complex and the importance on safety of their construction and use has led to the development of very detailed codes of practice and operating manuals in the member countries. These detailed statements embrace recognised standards of gas engineering and the specific requirements imposed by the legal structures of the member countries.

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Page 4 EN 12007-2:2000

1 Scope This standard describes the specific functional recommendations for polyethylene (PE) pipelines in addition to the general functional recommendations of EN 12007-1 for: a) a maximum operating pressure (MOP) up to and including 10 bar; b) an operating temperature between -20 0C and +40 0C. This European Standard specifies common basic principles for gas supply systems. Users of this European Standard should be aware that more detailed national standards and/or codes of practice can exist in the CEN member countries. This European Standard is intended to be applied in association with these national standards and/or codes of practice setting out the above mentioned basic principles. 2 Normative references

prEN 1555-1 prEN 1555-2 prEN 1555-3 prEN 1555-4 prEN 1555-5 EN 12007-1 EN 12327 ISO 12176-1 ISO/DIS 12176-2

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Plastics piping systems for gaseous fuels supply - Polyethylene (PE) - Part 1: General Plastics piping systems for gaseous fuels supply - Polyethylene (PE) - Part 2: Pipes Plastics piping systems for gaseous fuels supply - Polyethylene (PE) - Part 3: Fittings Plastics piping systems for gaseous fuels supply - Polyethylene (PE) - Part 4: Valves Plastics piping systems for gaseous fuels supply - Polyethylene (PE) - Part 5: Fitness for purpose of the system Gas supply systems - Pipelines for maximum operating pressure up to and including 16 bar Part 1: General functional recommendations Gas supply systems - Pressure testing, commissioning and decommissioning procedures Functional requirements Plastics pipes and fittings - Equipment for fusion jointing polyethylene systems - Part 1: Butt fusion Plastics pipes and fittings - Equipment for fusion jointing polyethylene systems - Part 2: Electrofusion

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This European Standard incorporates by dated or undated references, provisions from other publications. These normative references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and the publications are listed hereafter. For dated references, subsequent amendments to or revisions of any of these publications apply to this European Standard only when incorporated in it by amendment or revision. For undated references the latest edition of the publication referred to applies.

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Page 5 EN 12007-2:2000 3 Definitions and abbreviations For the purposes of this standard, the following definitions, symbols and abbreviations apply : 3.1 nominal outside diameter (dn): The specified outside diameter in millimetres (mm). 3.2 nominal wall thickness (en): Numerical designation of the wall thickness of a component, which is a convenient round number, approximately equal to the manufacturing dimension in millimetres (mm). 3.3 standard dimension ratio (SDR): The number approximately equal to the quotient of the nominal outside diameter and the nominal wall thickness.

3.5 maximum operating pressure (MOP): The maximum pressure at which a system can be operated continuously under normal operating conditions.

3.6 maximum incidental pressure (MIP): The maximum pressure which a system can experience during a short time limited by the safety devices. 3.7 butt fusion joint: A method of jointing PE pipes and fittings where the two pipe ends are heated and brought together to be fused without the use of a separate fitting or filler material.

3.9 squeeze-off: The act of squeezing a pipe to prevent the flow of gas. 3.10 minimum required strength (MRS): The value of the lower confidence limit rounded down to the next lower value of the R10 series when the lower confidence limit is below 10 MPa, or to the next lower value of the R20 series when the lower confidence limit is 10 MPa or greater. NOTE: R10 and R20 series are the Renard number series conforming to ISO 3 and ISO 497. 3.11 lower confidence limit (LCL): A quantity, expressed in megapascals (MPa), which can be considered as a material property, representing the 97,5 % lower confidence limit of the predicted long term hydrostatic strength for water at 20
C for 50 years.

NOTE: Reference temperature is usually 0 0 C. 4 Design 4.1 General The selection of materials, SDR series, dimensions and assembling techniques shall be the responsibility of the pipeline operator. There are 2 SDRs in common use: SDR 17,6 and SDR 11. Other SDRs are also used. EXAMPLE: Renovation 4.2 Materials and components The PE materials and components used shall comply with prEN 1555-1, prEN 1555-2, prEN 1555-3, prEN 1555-4 and prEN 1555-5.

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3.12 critical rapid crack propagation pressure (PRCP): The pressure level at which a rapid crack propagation (RCP) can occur in a PE pipeline, defined at a reference temperature

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3.8 electrofusion joint: A method of jointing PE pipes, using fittings which have an integrated electric heating element.

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NOTE: Normal operating conditions are: no fault in any device or stream.

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3.4 design pressure (DP): The pressure on which design calculations are based.

Page 6 EN 12007-2:2000

Other components not covered by prEN 1555-1, prEN 1555-2, prEN 1555-3, prEN 1555-4 and prEN 1555-5 shall conform to the relevant European Standards or, in their absence, to national or other established standards and shall be fit for their purpose. 4.3 Maximum operating pressure The MOP should be selected on this basis of the gas supply system operating requirements provided that MOP does not exceed 10 bar and the following conditions are satisfied: a) Verification of the overall service (design) coefficient: The overall service (design) coefficient C shall be calculated using the equation as given below and shall be greater than or equal to 2. This coefficient C takes into consideration service conditions as well as the properties and components of a pipeline.

b) Verification of the RCP criterion

The ratio of critical RCP pressure to MOP shall be greater than or equal to 1,5. The RPC criterion is the critical RCP pressure is dependant upon pipe size and material and should be determined in accordance with prEN 1555-2.

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Where pipe temperature decreases below 0
C the PRCP/MOP ratio should be recalculated in accordance with prEN 1555-5 using a value of RCP pressure determined from the minimum expected operating temperature of the pipe. If necessary the value of MOP should be reduced so as to maintain the PRCP/MOP ratio at a value greater than or equal to 1,5. See figure 1.

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The critical RCP pressure is based on a temperature of 0
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NOTE: Derating factor (DF) is a coefficient used in the calculation of MOP which takes into account the influence of operating temperature. Derating factors are listed in prEN 1555-5.

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20 x MRS MOP x (SDR1) x DF

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Page 7 EN 12007-2:2000

Figure 1 Pressure conditions in a PE-system

4.4 Assembly techniques

Jointing procedures can vary depending upon the PE material and sizes used. Fusion should be used as the jointing method. The fusion jointing techniques for the construction of PE pipelines shall be butt fusion and electrofusion.

Care shall be taken for fusion joints made on older PE materials which are not in accordance with prEN 1555-1. Written jointing procedures, authorised by the pipeline operator, shall be available prior to the construction of a pipeline. 4.5 Material properties for flow stopping by squeeze-off When squeeze-off techniques are considered, the suitability of pipe for squeeze-off should be established in accordance with prEN 1555-2. 4.6 Pipework inside buildings The pipework element of the gas supply system situated in buildings shall be designed, constructed and protected so that the effects of a fire on pipework do not lead to an explosion or significant aggravation of the fire. For further guidance reference should be made to EN 12007-1. In accessable areas service lines shall be protected from external interference.

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Mechanical joints can also be used for making PE to PE joints. Mechanical joints shall be used for jointing PE to other materials such as cast iron or steel, these are often refered to as transition fittings (for definitions of mechanical joints see EN 12007-3).

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Page 8 EN 12007-2:2000

5 Construction 5.1 Storage, handling and transportation Care shall be taken during the transport, handling and storage of pipes, fittings and other components to ensure at all stages that their specified properties and conditions, which can be affected by environmental factors, are preserved and that physical damage and distortions are avoided. EXAMPLE: At low temperatures, flexibility and fracture resistance are reduced. Pipes and fittings shall be inspected and those with surface defects deeper than 10 % of the nominal wall thickness shall not be used. PE pipes and fittings stored outside are subjected to UV degradation when exposed to direct daylight. PE materials are stabilized to give protection for a UV radiation level of 3.5 GJ/m. National bodies should give recommendations for allowed storage times in their countries. The average radiation level for one year in European countries are given in figure 2.

Europa

3,35 4,19 5,86

Pipes shall not be used where it is considered that they have exceeded the maximum UV exposure limit, unless they have been tested to demonstrate acceptable performance in accordance with existing standards. Further guidance on storage, handling and transportation of PE pipes and fittings is given in annex A. 5.2 Jointing 5.2.1 General Personnel shall be competent in appropriate jointing methods. Pipes and other pipeline components should be joined by fusion. Jointing procedures shall be carefully followed to obtain good quality joints. Cleanliness and the absence of stress are essential for reliable joints.

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Figure 2 Isobaric Curves of Global Radiation in Gigajoules per m2 per year

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Page 9 EN 12007-2:2000 5.2.2 Fusion jointing Satisfactory fusion jointing procedures based upon recognised standards and experience of the pipeline operator can be used. In the absence of fusion jointing procedures ISO 11413 and ISO 11414 should be applied. Fusion equipment shall conform with ISO 12176-1 for butt fusion and ISO/DIS 12176-2 for electrofusion. Consideration shall be given to the use of shielding, end caps or longer heating times when jointing in adverse weather conditions. NOTE: Strong winds or cold weather can reduce the quality of the PE fusion joint if not protected.

The following are minimum requirements for assembly of fusion joints:

5.2.3 Mechanical joints 5.2.3.1 General

All mechanical joints shall be resistant to end load in accordance with prEN 1555-3. All mechanical joints shall be assembled in accordance with the manufacturers instructions and the metallic parts of fittings shall be corrosion resistant or protected against corrosion. Satisfactory mechanical jointing procedures based upon recognised standards and experience of the pipeline operator can be used. In the absence of mechanical jointing procedures ISO/DIS 10838-1 and ISO/DIS 10838- 2 should be applied.

Flanged joints shall be made using the appropriate jointing material. 5.2.3.3 Threaded joints PE pipes shall not be threaded. 5.2.3.4 Compression joints Stiffener appropriate to the inside diameter of the PE-pipe shall be applied in joints with a compressive element. Only the stiffener supplied with a fitting shall be used for a given joint. Lubricants shall only be used following the manufacturers specification. Where relative movement can occur, anti-shear-sleeves should be fitted. 5.3 Laying Care shall be taken to prevent damage to the pipes and fittings during the whole process of laying.

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5.2.3.2 Flanged joints

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Cleaning of the pipe and/or fitting ends and the surface of the heated tools; Protection against dust and other contaminating influences; Clamping of the pipe and/or fitting ends; Verification of the alignment and the gap between fitting and/or pipe ends; Use of rerounding clamps where pipe ovality exists; Preparation of the fusion ends, by either scraping in case of electrofusion and planing in case of butt fusion; Marking for depth of penetration into the electrofusion sockets; Maintenance and correct functioning of the fusion equipment and check of its compatibility with the required parameters; Taking into account the fusion parameters as written in the jointing procedure.

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Pipes and/or fittings with fusion ends of different SDR values shall not be jointed by butt fusion.

Page 10 EN 12007-2:2000

Changes of direction of a PE pipeline during construction shall be achieved by means of preformed bends or elbow fittings or by the natural flexibility of the PE pipe within limits. Natural flexing can be used for bend radii greater than or equal to 25 x dn, and for smaller radii dependant upon the SDR and material properties based on operational experience and good engineering practice. Machine bending of pipes or bending following the application of heat shall not be used. PE pipes, fittings and valves installed above ground shall be protected against mechanical interference and UV degradation. When using carrier pipes the gas pipe should be fully supported or equipped with support rings. Contact with sharp edges shall be avoided at entry and exit from the carrier pipe in order to prevent damage to the gas pipe. When tightening or untightening a mechanical joint it is essential that movement is not transmitted to the pipe. EXAMPLE: Torsion.

Pipes shall not be overstressed by tensile forces during laying.

If the PE pipe is laid by drag care shall be taken that the drag force is not greater than the values (in Newton) given by the formula:

Valves shall be installed so that they do not expose the PE pipe to unnecessary stress during opening and closing cycles. Material around the pipe shall be compacted so as to avoid excessive pipe ovality and shall be done layer by layer. Backfill materials around the pipe shall be selected to prevent damage to the pipe from contact with sharp edges during and after compaction. 5.4 Connection to existing systems 5.4.1 Static electricity

Where there can be a release of gas in the working area, static charge accumulation shall be avoided. EXAMPLE: Draping water soaked cloths of natural fibre over all pipes and fittings likely to be handled so that the cloths touch both the pipe and the ground. 5.4.2 Squeeze-off The squeeze-off procedure and tooling shall be specified by the pipeline operator. Squeeze-offs shall be located no nearer than 3 x dn from joints and 6 x dn from other squeeze-offs. The squeeze-off position shall be permanently marked if the section of pipe is not replaced.

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Stresses caused by different temperatures between laying and operation shall be considered.

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x d n 3 x SDR
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Consideration shall be given during the laying process to the potential effects on the pipe of relative movements of the ground or adjacent constructions or from temperature variations.

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Page 11 EN 12007-2:2000 6 Quality control 6.1 Inspection prior to installation The PE pipes and fittings and associated equipment shall be inspected prior to installation to confirm the following: Conformity with 4.2, in particular verification of required gas application mark, pipe diameters, SDR, MRS and tolerance class on basis of the pipe and fitting marking information. Conformity with 5.1. EXAMPLE 1: Limitations on outside storage have not been exceeded. EXAMPLE 2: Pipes and fittings showing obvious defects or excessive scoring are discarded, clearly identified as unsuitable and, where appropriate, returned to the source of supply. Conformity with 5.2.2 regarding the use of the equipment in accordance with relevant standards and the availability of written jointing procedures. 6.2 Inspection during laying 6.2.1 Laying Soil and trench conditions shall comply with 5.3. 6.2.2 Joint integrity

Joints shall be visually inspected following procedures approved by the pipeline operator. This inspection can be carried out by the personnel engaged in jointing. EXAMPLE: For butt fusion visual examination on the fusion bead, shape and geometry.

The test pressures selected for a pipeline shall be appropriate to its MOP and shall take into account the guidance given in Figure 1. The testing procedure(s) shall be in accordance with EN 12327. Consideration shall be given to the need for any special precautions to be taken to protect persons and property if air or inert gas is used as the test medium. For testing temperatures below 0
C the possibility of a reduction in critical RCP pressure shall be taken into account in the pipeline preparation and testing procedure adopted. Pressurised PE pipelines at ambient temperature are subjected to expansion by creep that could affect the results of pressure testing. At higher test pressures this effect can be significant. Appropriate allowances should be made for pressure losses due to creep when interpreting pressure test results. If air is used, oil from the compressor shall be prevented from entering the pipeline and the air temperature shall not exceed 40
C, to prevent damage to the pipes and/or fittings.

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Further information regarding inspection methods is given in Annex B.

Destructive testing on joints made in the field can also be carried out to ensure the quality of fusion in conformity with the fusion procedure.

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Any additional inspection shall be carried out by a competent person at a frequency depending on the conditions of use. The inspection should be recorded.

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Page 12 EN 12007-2:2000

Annex A (INFORMATIVE) Storage, handling and transportation

A.1 General PE pipes are available in coils, drums or in straight lengths in accordance with prEN 1555-2. The correct storage, handling and transportation of the PE pipes and fittings should be ensured at all times, to fulfill the specified conditions when they are used.

A.2.1 Storage conditions

Straight pipes should be stacked on a reasonably flat surface, free from sharp objects, stones or projections likely to deform or damage them. Special care should be taken under site conditions. Fittings should be stored in their original packing, until ready for use.

Contact with aggressive chemical products like liquid hydrocarbons should be avoided. A.2.2 Bundles

The supporting frames in stacks should not be nailed together, (see section A-A, Figure A.1)

The distance X should be agreed between manufacturer and pipeline operator and should not exceed 2.5 m (see figure A.1).

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Pipe bundles should not be stacked unless the supporting frames are equally spaced to transfer safely the load from bundle to bundle through the corresponding frame and to avoid distortion of the pipe and facilitate safe lifting of bundles.

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Section A-A

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Supporting frame

A.2.3 Stacking loose straight pipes Where individual straight pipe lengths are stacked in pyramidal fashion, deformation can occur in the lower layers, particularly in warm weather. Therefore, such stacks should not exceed a height of 1m. The exact height at which PE straight pipes can be stacked depends on many factors such as material, size, wall thickness and ambient temperatures. However, at no time should the loading cause the pipe section to be forced out of shape. The manufacturers stacking recommendations should always be followed. For long periods of storage at high ambient temperatures consideration should be given to fitting end caps to minimize pipe end distortion for large diameter thin wall thickness pipes.

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Figure A.1

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PE pipes and fittings should be stored so as to minimize the possibility of the material being damaged by crushing, piercing or extended exposure to direct daylight.

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A.2 Storage

Page 13 EN 12007-2:2000 EXAMPLE: dn > 250 mm, SDR 26. A.2.4 Drums and coils PE pipes can be coiled or packed on drums. Consideration should be given to avoiding single point contact of the coils. Attention should be paid to the weight of loaded drums which can usually be from 1000 kg to more than 2000 kg. A.2.5 Storing

Storage time can be extended by protecting the pipe from UV radiation.

NOTE: Covering of the pipe to protect it against UV exposure can sometimes create excessive heat which can also be detrimental to the pipe performance.

A.2.6 First in - first out

In managing storage sites the exposure time should be minimized by issuing from store on a "first in - first out" rotation with the date of manufacture used as control. The pipe with the earliest date of manufacture should be issued first for installation. The same "first in - first out" principle should also be used for fittings. A.3 Handling A.3.1 General

Care should be taken to avoid excessive damage. If handling equipment is used in contact with the pipes, a protection to avoid damage should be provided.

Metal chains or slings should not be used in direct contact with the pipe. EXAMPLE: during loading and unloading operations. When pipes are dragged along the ground, roller units or skids should be employed to minimize damage. A.3.2 Handling in cold weather At low temperatures, flexibility and fracture resistance are reduced and more care should be taken when handling PE pipes and components, especially fittings with fusion joints. A.3.3 Straight pipes Initial handling and storage of straight pipes should be made with the pipe in packaged form, thus minimizing damage during this phase. When loading, unloading or handling, mechanical equipment should be used to move or stack the packs.

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If handling equipment is not used, techniques which are not likely to damage the pipes and/or fittings should be chosen.

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For more exact assessment radiation instrumentation can be employed especially for longterm storage sites under strong UV-conditions.

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In case of outside storage, the cumulative exposure period should be determined with reference to the Pipe Production Code marked on the pipe which includes the date of manufacture. Using this date and the received UV radiation levels at the storage site checks can be made for total UV exposure, see 5.1.

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A.3.4 Coils Coils of pipe stacked on pallets can easily be handled using a forklift truck. Individual coils should not be rolled off the edge of the loading platforms or trailers. These coils should be slung individually when off-loading with a crane. A.3.5 Drums Taking account of their weight, handling of drums should be helped by mechanical equipment. Special trailers make it easier and safer.

A.3.6 Uncoiling

While unrolling from drums the rotation rate should be checked and care should be taken that the pipe is not damaged. If PE pipes have been unrolled, care should be exercised when cutting the required length at its bending part situated near the drum or the coil.

A.4.1 Straight pipes

When transporting straight pipes, the vehicle bed should be free from nails and other protuberances likely to damage the pipe. The pipes should have sufficient support to minimize bending stresses likely to damage the pipe and to avoid pipe deformation. The vehicles should have side supports and the pipes should be secured effectively during transportation. All posts should be flat with no sharp edges. During transportation, the pipes should be continuously supported to minimize movement between the pipes and their supports. A.4.2 Coiled pipe

Coiled pipe with dn  63 mm can be supplied on pallets. The coils should be firmly secured to the pallets, which should in turn be firmly secured to the vehicle. Coiled pipe with dn > 63 mm should be supplied individually. There should be facilities to restrain each coil securely throughout transit and the loading process. A.4.3 Drums The drum should be firmly attached to the vehicle and its height and width should be considered in planning the intended route.

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A.4 Transportation

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Especially at low temperatures particular care should be taken during uncoiling operations to protect the operator against effects of uncontrolled spring back of the pipe.

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Before installing the pipe in the trench or by insertion it should be ensured that the drum is placed correctly and that its axle is steady during the unrolling operation.

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Annex B (INFORMATIVE) Fusion joint integrity

B.1 General All fusion joints should be visually inspected in the field. The quality of the joint depends on the strict adherence to the written and authorized fusion procedure, the use of well maintained equipment conforming to the relevant specification and the competence of fusion operators. B.2 Visual inspection criteria Attention should be drawn to the following visual inspection criteria, which are suitable for quality control of fusion joints. B.2.1 Butt fusion

Some general guidelines for the visual examination of butt fusion joints are given below: B.2.1.1 Bead symmetry

Good quality joints should have a smooth symmetrical bead shape around the entire pipe circumference as shown in figure B.1. The bead depression "A" should not extend below the pipe surface. An unsymmetrical bead profile between the same components should initially be considered as indicative of poor joint quality and therefore an assessment by an authorised person should be undertaken. The effect on bead symmetry of differences in melt flow rates (MFR) between the parts to be joined should be considered in the secondary assessment.

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Where the pipes and/or fittings have different melt flow rates (MFR) the bead can be unsymmetrical but still satisfactory. In assessing the results of the joint tests under standard conditions acceptable levels of symmetry should be determined. B.2.1.2 Alignment Pipes, fittings and valves should be as closely aligned as possible. An allowable misalignment V should not exceed 0,1 en. Where this leads to values below 1 mm, testing of joints should be undertaken to identify the maximum allowable misalignment. This value should not be exceeded anywhere around the circumference of the two parts adjacent to the fusion bead.

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Figure B.1

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Figure B.2

B.2.1.3 Bead width

The use of GO NO-GO gauges, manufactured to the recommended values, could facilitate the control (see figure B.5).

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Variation in the bead width of a single joint (figure B.3) indicates a poor condition of the fusion equipment and should be strictly limited.

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B.2.1.4 Bead removal Removal of the external fusion bead, using appropriate tooling, is possible without damage to the pipe (figure B.4). The removed bead is then available for inspection.

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Bmax
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Figure B.3

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One method of determining acceptable bead width value B is experimentally with pipe and butt fusion machines operating at the specified conditions. The mean value B is determined from several joints made under the conditions defined in the written fusion procedures. The measured bead width B should not exceed 20 % of this mean value.

AB A

The bead width B (figure B.2) is influenced by the PE material, the production type (extruded or injection moulded), the type and temperature of the heater plate and the applied fusion cycle; consequently it is difficult to specify a single set of bead width values. It is however a good indicator that the necessary fusion procedure has been followed.

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Figure B.4

Bead gauges can be used to assess the bead width (figure B.5). A visual examination of the underside of the bead can be undertaken; evidence of contamination, holes, offsets and melt damage should be cause for rejection.

The bead should be solid and rounded with a broad root as shown in figure B.6. Hollow beads with a thin root and curled appearance could have been formed with excessive pressure or no heat soak.

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Figure B.5 Figure B.6

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A bend back test (figure B.7) every few centimetres and observation for the presence of slit defects should be made. Slit defects are indicative of fine dust contamination entrained within the fusion interface, possibly arising from contact with a dirty heater plate.

Figure B.7

B.2.2.1 Electrofusion socket B.2.2.1.1 Pipe alignment

It should be checked that the pipes and fittings have been properly aligned conforming to the written jointing procedures. B.2.2.1.2 Scraping

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There should be clear evidence of scraping on either side of the socket. Particular attention should be given to the inspection of the bottom of the pipe.

B.2.2.1.3 Penetration The presence of depth of penetration marking should be checked to confirm that complete penetration of pipe or spigot ends has been achieved (figure B.9).

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It should be checked that an efficient scraping in accordance with the written jointing procedures over the entire circumference has been carried out (figure B.8).

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Figure B.8

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B.2.2 Electrofusion

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Figure B.9

B.2.2.1.4 Melt material

It should be checked that melt from the fusion process or fusion wires have not exuded outside the confines of the fitting (figure B.10).

B.2.2.1.5 Heating indicators

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If the fitting is designed with heating indicators they should be in a position complying with the manufacturer's instructions after fusion has been completed (figure B.11).

B.2.2.1.6 Cooling time The clamp should not be removed before the cooling time has elapsed. B.2.2.1.7 Electric wire position Abnormal displacement after fusion of the electric coils should not occur.

B.2.2.2 Saddle or tapping tee B.2.2.2.1 Scraping It should be checked that an efficient scraping in accordance with the written jointing procedures over the entire fusion area has been carried out (figure B.12). When the fusion area includes the entire circumference of the pipe particular attention should be given to the inspection of the bottom of the pipe.

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Figure B.10 Figure B.11

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Figure B.12

B.2.2.2.2 Visual control

The stack of the saddle should be perpendicular to the central line of the main. The fitting should not collapse the pipe.

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B.2.2.2.3 Heating indicators If the fitting is designed with heating indicators they should be in a position complying with the manufacturer's instructions after fusion has been completed (figure B.11). B.2.2.2.4 Cooling time When a special clamp is required for saddles or tapping tees, it should not be removed nor the joints disturbed before the cooling time as defined in the fusion procedure has elapsed. B.2.3 Ancillary tooling The application of ancillary tooling should not result in significant damage to pipe surfaces adjacent to the fusion joint. EXAMPLE: pipe clamps

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Figure B.13

Nowhere should melt from the fusion process exude outside the confines of the saddle, (figure B.13).

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Annex C (INFORMATIVE) Bibliography

EN 12007-3 EN 12007-4 ISO 3 ISO 497 ISO/DIS 10838-1 ISO/DIS 10838-2 ISO 11413 ISO 11414 Gas supply systems - Pipelines for maximum operating pressure up to and including 16 bar - Part 3: Specific functional recommendations for steel Gas supply systems - Pipelines for maximum operating pressure up to and including 16 bar - Part 4: Specific functional recommendations for renovation Preferred numbers - Series of preferred numbers Guide to the choice of series of preferred numbers and of series containing more rounded values of preferred numbers. Mechanical fittings for polyethylene piping systems for the supply of gaseous fuels -Part 1: Metal fittings for pipes of nominal outside diameter less than or equal to 63 mm Mechanical fittings for polyethylene piping systems for the supply of gaseous fuels - Part 2: Metal fittings for pipes of nominal outside diameter greater than 63 mm Plastics pipes and fittings - Preparation of test piece assemblies between a polyethylene (PE) pipe and an electrofusion fitting. Plastics pipes and fittings - Preparation of polyethylene (PE) pipe/pipe or pipe/fitting test assemblies by butt fusion.

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