Overview
EN ISO 13255:2017 sets out a specific and uniform method for testing the airtightness of joints within thermoplastics piping systems used for soil and waste discharge inside buildings. Developed in alignment with ISO 13255:2010, this European Standard, published by CEN, aims to ensure that connection points in thermoplastic pipes and fittings prevent the unwanted escape of air or gases, contributing to system reliability and hygiene in residential, commercial, and public buildings.
Proper airtightness of piping joints is essential for preventing gas leaks, odour emissions, and maintaining the overall performance of drainage and waste discharge systems. This standard addresses the need for consistent testing procedures to support safety, code compliance, and product quality throughout the construction and building services industries.
Key Topics
EN ISO 13255:2017 covers several critical points related to the airtightness testing of thermoplastics piping systems:
- Scope and Application: The standard is intended for soil and waste discharge systems inside buildings, using joints between thermoplastics pipes and fittings.
- Test Principle: Joints are evaluated by subjecting an assembled test piece to a specified internal air pressure over a set duration, with leakage detected visually via soap solution or equivalent methods.
- Apparatus Requirements: The use of appropriate end-sealing devices, pressure sources, and measuring instruments capable of maintaining and monitoring specified values is emphasized.
- Test Piece Preparation: Detailed guidelines are provided on assembling and preparing the pipe and fitting combinations for testing, ensuring representative and reproducible results.
- Testing Procedure: Procedures include mounting the test assembly, introducing water to a certain level, applying air pressure, systematically deflecting the joints, and inspecting for leaks.
- Reporting: The standard outlines necessary contents of the test report, such as component identification, temperatures, pressures, deflection angles, observations, and other relevant factors influencing results.
Applications
The practical importance of EN ISO 13255:2017 lies in its use across various stages of the building and construction supply chain:
- Manufacturers of thermoplastic piping and fittings use this method to validate product performance and support claims of compliance with European and international regulations.
- Testing Laboratories rely on the prescribed procedure to deliver consistent, repeatable airtightness assessments for certification and quality assurance purposes.
- Construction and Engineering Firms integrate the standard into procurement and quality checks, ensuring installed systems perform reliably and safely under everyday building usage.
- Building Inspectors and Regulatory Bodies reference this standard to support legal and technical compliance during inspections and approvals.
- Designers and Consultants utilize the standard as a benchmark when specifying piping systems for new buildings or refurbishment projects.
Ensuring airtight joints reduces the likelihood of gas emissions and odours, boosts hygiene, and minimizes potential damage or performance issues in soil and waste systems.
Related Standards
For a comprehensive approach to thermoplastic piping in building drainage and waste management, the following standards may also be relevant:
- EN 1054: Superseded by EN ISO 13255:2017, previously addressed similar topics.
- EN ISO 1329: Focuses on PVC piping systems for soil and waste discharge.
- ISO 3633: Covers polypropylene piping systems for similar applications.
- EN 12056: Addresses the overall design and layout of gravity drainage systems inside buildings.
- EN ISO 1610: Contains methods for testing water tightness of joints.
Integrating EN ISO 13255:2017 into organizational processes supports robust system design and reliable, leak-free operation of modern thermoplastics piping networks in building services.
