ASTM F 3346 : 2024

1.1This specification covers a coextruded polyethylene composite pressure pipe with a butt welded aluminum tube reinforcement between the inner and outer layers. The inner and outer polyethylene layers are bonded to the aluminum tube by a melt adhesive. Included is a system of nomenclature for the polyethylene-aluminum-polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT/AL/PE-RT) pipes, the requirements and test methods for materials, the dimensions and strengths of the component tubes and finished pipe, adhesion tests, and the burst and sustained pressure performance. Also given are the requirements and methods of marking. The pipe covered by this specification is intended for use in air conditioning and refrigeration (ACR), underground irrigation systems, radiant panel heating systems, baseboard, snow- and ice-melt systems, and gases that are compatible with composite pipe.

1.2This specification relates only to composite pipes incorporating a butt welded aluminum tube having both internal and external polyethylene layers. The welded aluminum tube is capable of sustaining internal pressures. Pipes consisting of metallic layers not butt welded together and plastic layers other than polyethylene are outside the scope of this specification.

1.3Specifications for fittings for use with pipe meeting the requirements of this specification are given in Annex A1.

1.4This specification excludes crosslinked polyethylene-aluminum-crosslinked polyethylene pipes (see Specification F1281).

1.5Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses after SI units are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.6This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.