Overview
ISO 6182-17:2020 defines requirements and test methods for pressure reducing valves used in water-based fire protection and automatic sprinkler systems. The standard covers both pilot-operated and direct-acting pressure reducing valves, specifying performance criteria, production testing, marking and manufacturer instructions. Auxiliary components or attachments to the pressure reducing valve are outside its scope.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and definitions - Clear terminology for main valve, pilot valve, minimum opening pressure, rated working pressure, stuffing box, etc.
- Nominal sizes and tolerances - Standard nominal connection sizes: 40, 50, 65, 80, 100, 125, 150, 200, 250, 300 mm; tolerances referenced to Annex A.
- Connections - Connections must be suitable for the valve’s rated working pressure and conform to relevant international or national standards (for example, ISO 6182-12 for grooved ends).
- Rated working pressure - Minimum rated working pressure specified as 1.2 MPa (12 bar); lower machining possible if marked accordingly.
- Materials and construction - Body and cover must be corrosion-resistant at least equivalent to cast iron; cover fasteners to be steel, stainless steel, titanium or equivalent; restrictions on non-metallic materials for body/cover.
- Strength and integrity tests - Hydrostatic strength test: assembled valve (sealing assembly blocked open) withstands 4× rated working pressure for 5 minutes without rupture. Diaphragms must not leak, tear or rupture under test.
- Leakage, deformation and sealing - Tests and limits for body leakage, sealing assembly, stem seal and repacking leakage.
- Durability and ageing - Warm-water and air ageing tests for non-metallic components; long-term static leakage test (90 days) and durability cycling operation tests.
- Operation and maintenance - Requirements for access for maintenance, inline servicing, visual indicators to prevent improper reassembly, and replacement parts design.
- Marking and documentation - Required product marking and manufacturer’s installation instructions are specified.
Applications and users
ISO 6182-17:2020 is used by:
- Manufacturers of pressure reducing valves for fire suppression systems (pilot-operated and direct-acting designs).
- Fire protection engineers and system designers specifying components for automatic sprinkler systems.
- Test laboratories and certification bodies conducting performance and compliance testing.
- Installers, maintenance teams and facility managers who require validated performance, marking and servicing guidance.
Related standards
- ISO 6182 series (other parts for automatic sprinkler systems)
- ISO 6182-12 (grooved-end components)
- ISO 898-1, ISO 898-2 (fastener mechanical properties) referenced for strength calculations
Keywords: ISO 6182-17:2020, pressure reducing valves, automatic sprinkler systems, fire protection standard, test methods, performance requirements.
Open preview (PDF)Fire protection — Automatic sprinkler systems — Part 17: Requirements and test methods for pressure reducing valves