Overview
EN ISO 13266:2023 (ISO 13266:2022) specifies a standardized test method for assessing the resistance of the upper assembly of thermoplastic inspection chambers and manhole components used in non‑pressure underground drainage and sewerage systems to surface and traffic loading. The test targets thermoplastic shafts, risers, cones, telescopic adapters and near‑surface components - not the cover and frame, which are addressed by EN 124‑1 or other material‑specific standards.
Key Topics
- Scope and test object
- Applies to the first 1 m of the inspection chamber/manhole assembly (from the top element downward).
- Excludes requirements for covers and frames.
- Test principle
- The assembly is buried in a soil box or under field conditions with a specified granular surround.
- A loading plate (as per EN 124‑1) applies a central load; vertical displacement of the cover assembly is measured during and after loading.
- After testing, the assembly is visually inspected for defects.
- Apparatus and instrumentation
- Soil box large enough to accommodate the test assembly with ≥300 mm free space around.
- Loading device capable of applying and holding the specified load for a minimum of 15 minutes (hydraulic actuator or dead weight).
- Thermocouple to record granular surround temperature.
- Test conditions and parameters
- Number of test pieces: one unless otherwise specified by a referring standard.
- Conditioning: do not test for at least 24 h after manufacture.
- Ambient test temperature: 5 °C to 25 °C; granular surround must be ≥3 °C.
- Test recording: displacement measurements at defined points, temperature, and visual inspection results.
- Updates
- This edition replaces EN 14802:2005 and aligns with ISO 13266:2022; includes an additional classification (“Class C”) and editorial/technical updates.
Applications
- Manufacturers: validate design strength and highway/traffic resistance of thermoplastic risers, shafts and adapters for product certification and quality control.
- Test laboratories: standardize test methods and reporting for repeatable performance verification.
- Civil and drainage engineers: specify compliant components for non‑pressure sewer and drainage projects.
- Procurement and asset owners: assess component suitability for vehicular and pedestrian areas to ensure durability under surface and traffic loads.
- Regulatory bodies and conformity assessors: reference for compliance with European/CEN requirements.
Related Standards
- EN 124‑1 - covers requirements and test methods for gully/manhole covers and frames (vehicular/pedestrian).
- ISO 13260 - test method for resistance to combined temperature cycling and external loading.
- CEN/TS 1046 - installation guidance for thermoplastic piping and ducting systems in trenches.
Keywords: EN ISO 13266:2023, ISO 13266, thermoplastics piping systems, non‑pressure underground drainage, sewerage, inspection chambers, manholes, shafts, risers, surface and traffic loading, test method, EN 124‑1.
