BS 7291-1:2010

BSI Standards Publication

Thermoplastics pipe and

fitting systems for hot and
cold water for domestic
purposes and heating
installations in buildings
Part 1: General requirements
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

Publishing and copyright information

The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the
document was last issued.

© BSI 2010

ISBN 978 0 580 68861 4

ICS 83.140.30, 91.140.60

The following BSI references relate to the work on this standard:

Committee reference PRI/88
Draft for comment 09/30208674 DC

Publication history
First published May 1990
Second edition, October 2001
Third edition, June 2006
Fourth (present) edition, April 2010

Amendments issued since publication

Date Text affected

BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

Contents
Foreword iii
1 Scope 1
2 Normative references 1
3 Terms and definitions 2
4 Service conditions 3
5 Dimensions 4
6 Performance 5
7 Intermediate layers of multilayer pipes 7
8 Marking and associated information 7
Annexes
Annex A (normative) Test for minimum failure time 9
Annex B (normative) Method of test for hydrostatic pressure
resistance of assembled pipes and fittings 13
Annex C (normative) Method of test for resistance to
thermal cycling 14
Annex D (normative) Method of test for resistance to cyclic
pressure shock 18
Annex E (informative) Guidance on factory control procedures 19
Bibliography 21
List of figures
Figure 1 – Designation of fittings 8
Figure B.1 – Typical arrangement for hydrostatic pressure resistance
test for fittings 14
Figure C.1 – Test assembly for systems based on rigid pipes 15
Figure C.2 – Test assembly for systems based on flexible pipes 17
Figure C.3 – Configuration of bent flexible pipes for thermal cycle
testing 18
Figure D.1 – Diagram of typical equipment arrangement for cyclic
pressure shock test 19
List of tables
Table 1 – Class "S" service conditions 4
Table 2 – Circumferential stress values 5
Table 3 – Conditions constituting a change of material 7
Table A.1 – Failure point distribution 9
Table A.2 – Percentage points of Student’s t distribution (upper 2.5 %
points) 12
Table C.1 – Thermal cycling test schedule 15
Table E.1 – Applicability of requirements and test methods 20

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover,
pages i to iv, pages 1 to 22, an inside back cover and a back cover.

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BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

ii • © BSI 2010 This page deliberately left blank

BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

Foreword
Publishing information
This part of BS 7291 is published by BSI and came into effect on
30 April 2010. It was prepared by Subcommittee PRI/88/2/P3, Plastics
piping for hot and cold water, under the authority of Technical
Committee PRI/88, Plastics piping systems. A list of organizations
represented on this committee can be obtained on request to its
secretary.

Supersession
BS 7291-1:2010 supersedes BS 7291-1:2006, which is withdrawn.

Information about this document

The increase in unvented hot water storage systems in the UK, and
the higher temperatures and pressures associated with these, lead to
potential health and safety concerns in the UK. These are addressed
by the exclusive use of the Class "S" for the full range of service
conditions given in Table 1.
The size range of pipes and associated fittings to which this standard
is applicable is up to and including 110 mm nominal outside diameter.
Particular ranges of sizes are specified with reference to BS ISO 4065
and/or BS EN 1057 and/or BS EN 1254-2 and/or BS EN 1254-3, as
appropriate, by the other parts of BS 7291. These alternative size
ranges arise because, in addition to providing for specifications in
accordance with metric sizes of thermoplastics pipes, it is considered
desirable to standardize the requirements for plastics pipes made and
widely used for such applications with dimensions compatible with
pipework, fittings and accessories for metric sizes of copper pipes.
Additional requirements for pipes and fittings made from specific types
of thermoplastics materials are specified in other parts of BS 7291:
Part 2: Specification for polybutylene (PB) pipes and associated
fittings;
Part 3: Specification for cross-linked polyethylene (PE-X) pipes and
associated fittings.
In particular, these parts specify requirements and test methods to
ensure the quality of the material and the performance of pipes
and fittings of that material, including requirements for component
dimensions, which contribute to performance. The other parts also
rationalize the pipe sizes specified and identify suitable jointing
methods.
Fittings are permitted to be made of plastics materials other than those
from which the pipes are made or of other materials, e.g. metallic
fittings conforming to BS EN 1254-2 and/or BS EN 1254-3, subject to
conformity with this part of BS 7291 and with any applicable re-
quirements for jointed assemblies specified in BS 7291-2 or BS 7291-3,
as applicable.
Attention is drawn to BS 5955-8, which specifies the installation re-
quirements for plastics pipes and associated fittings falling within
the scope of BS 7291 and references other relevant standards.

© BSI 2010 • iii

BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

Presentational conventions
The provisions of this standard are presented in roman (i.e. upright)
type. Requirements are expressed in sentences in which the principal
auxiliary verb is “shall”.
Where optional recommendations are included, they are expressed in
sentences in which the principal auxiliary verb is “should”.
Commentary, explanation and general informative material is presented
in smaller italic type, and does not constitute a normative element.
Product certification/inspection/testing. Users of this British
Standard are advised to consider the desirability of third-party
certification/inspection/testing of product conformity with this British
Standard. Appropriate conformity attestation arrangements are
described in BS EN ISO/IEC 17025. Users seeking assistance in identifying
appropriate conformity assessment bodies or schemes may ask BSI to
forward their enquiries to the relevant association.
Assessed capability. Users of this British Standard are advised to
consider the desirability of quality system assessment and registration
against the appropriate standard in the BS EN ISO 9000 series by an
accredited third-party certification body.

Contractual and legal considerations

This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions
of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
In particular, attention is drawn to the following statutory regulations:
The Health and Safety at Work, etc Act 1974 [1]
The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 [2]
Annex A, Annex B, Annex C and Annex D are normative. Annex E
is informative.

iv • © BSI 2010
BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

1 Scope
This part of BS 7291 specifies general requirements and methods
of test for thermoplastics pipe and fitting systems intended for
use within buildings for the conveyance of cold water, including
drinking water, and heated water for use in domestic hot and cold
water distribution and heating installations. These systems are also
suitable for the conveyance of cold water for a period of 50 years at a
temperature of 20 °C and a design pressure of 12½ bar.
This British Standard is applicable only to Class “S” pipes and fittings.
Details of the specific applications and service conditions are given in
Table 1.
This specification is applicable to rigid or flexible plain pipes, pipes
incorporating a polymeric barrier to inhibit gas permeability through
the pipe wall and multilayer pipes having a nominal outside diameter
up to and including 110 mm.
NOTE 1 Methods of test are given in Annex A, Annex B, Annex C and
Annex D. Annex E gives guidance on factory control procedures.
NOTE 2 BS 7291-2 and BS 7291-3 specify additional requirements for
pipes and/or fittings manufactured from specific thermoplastics materials.
They should be read in conjunction with this part of BS 7291.
NOTE 3 Reference to “pressure” in this part of BS 7291 means “gauge
pressure”, unless otherwise stated.
NOTE 4 Where the pipe or fitting is of a thermoplastics material
covered by BS 7291-1, BS 7291-2 or BS 7291-3, either the requirements
for preventing or controlling the extent of permeation specified in the
applicable part, e.g. by use of a barrier pipe, should be followed, or
a corrosion inhibitor added to the primary circuits in accordance with
BS 5955-8.

2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the
application of this document. For dated references, only the edition
cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the
referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 5955-8, Plastics pipework (thermoplastics materials) – Part 8:
Specification for the installation of thermoplastics pipes and associated
fittings for use in domestic hot and cold water services and heating
systems in buildings
BS 6100-5, Building and civil engineering – Vocabulary – Part 5: Civil
engineering – Water engineering, environmental engineering and
pipe lines
BS 6100-7, Building and civil engineering – Vocabulary – Part 7: Services
BS 6920-1, Suitability of non-metallic products for use in contact with
water intended for human consumption with regard to their effect on
the quality of the water – Part 1: Specification
BS 7291-2:2010, Thermoplastics pipe and fitting systems for hot
and cold water for domestic purposes and heating installations
in buildings – Part 2: Specification for polybutylene (PB) pipe and
associated fittings

© BSI 2010 • 1
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

BS 7291-3:2010, Thermoplastics pipe and fitting systems for hot

and cold water for domestic purposes and heating installations in
buildings – Part 3: Specification for cross-linked polyethylene (PE-X)
pipes and associated fittings
BS EN 578, Plastics piping systems – Plastics pipes and fittings –
Determination of the opacity
BS EN 1057, Copper and copper alloys – Seamless, round copper tubes
for water and gas in sanitary and heating installations
BS EN 1254-2, Copper and copper alloys – Plumbing fittings – Part 2:
Fittings with compression ends for use with copper tubes
BS EN 1254-3, Copper and copper alloys – Plumbing fittings – Part 3:
Fittings with compression ends for use with plastics pipes
BS EN ISO 15875-2:2003, Plastics piping systems for hot and cold water
installations – Crosslinked polyethylene (PE-X) – Part 2: Pipes
BS EN ISO 15876-2:2003, Plastics piping systems for hot and cold water
installations – Polybutylene (PB) – Part 2: Pipes
BS EN ISO 1167-1, Thermoplastics pipes, fittings and assemblies for
the conveyance of fluids – Determination of the resistance to internal
pressure – Part 1: General methods
BS EN ISO 1167-2, Thermoplastics pipes, fittings and assemblies for
the conveyance of fluids – Determination of the resistance to internal
pressure – Part 2: Preparation of pipe test pieces
BS EN ISO 7686, Plastics pipes and fittings – Determination of opacity
BS EN ISO 3126, Plastics piping systems – Plastics components –
Determination of dimensions
BS ISO 17455, Plastics piping systems – Multilayer pipes – Determination
of the oxygen permeability of the barrier pipe
BS ISO 472, Plastics – Vocabulary
BS ISO 4065, Thermoplastics pipes – Universal wall thickness table

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this British Standard, the terms and definitions
given in BS ISO 472, BS 6100-5, BS 6100-7 and the following apply.
3.1 flexible pipes
pipes available in coil form
3.2 rigid pipes
pipes available only in straight lengths
3.3 oxygen barrier pipes
pipes incorporating a polymeric barrier layer to prevent or greatly
diminish the diffusion of oxygen into or through the pipe wall where
the design stress requirements are entirely met by base polymer
NOTE The performance requirements, with the exception of oxygen
permeability, are the same for plain pipes, barrier pipes and multilayer pipes.

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BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

3.4 maximum system service temperature

Ts
maximum service temperature that can occur during normal operation
NOTE An example is thermal stratification within hot water storage
vessels or of the positioning and/or operating tolerances of temperature
controls.

3.5 nominal system flow temperature

Tf
intended maximum flow temperature of a system for a particular
application as recommended in codes of practice and other guidance
documents
3.6 system malfunction temperature
Tm
maximum temperature likely to be applied to pipes and fittings in the
event of control thermostat failure or malfunction
3.7 multilayer pipes
pipes comprising layers of polymer materials
NOTE Layers may consist of of polybutylene (PB) or cross-linked
polyethylene (PE-X) layers, adhesive and intermediate layers (see also
Clause 7). Layers may have the ability to:
a) withstand pressure;
b) block or greatly reduce the permeation of oxygen or other substances
into the pipe;
c) create interlayer adhesion;
d) block or greatly reduce incoming UV and/or sunlight;
e) mechanically protect other layers;
f) control the longitudinal expansion;
g) give the multilayer pipe a colour.
Some characteristics can be combined in one layer.

4 Service conditions
Pipes and fittings shall be capable of performing to all the application
criteria of Table 1 without exception.

© BSI 2010 • 3
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

Table 1 Class "S" service conditions

Application Nominal Maximum System System

system flow system service malfunction maximum
temperature temperature temperature working
Tf Ts Tm pressure A)
ºC ºC ºC bar B)
Indirect cold water systems 20 20 — 3½
Direct mains-fed cold water systems 20 20 — 12½
Subsurface heating systems 60 83 100 3½
Vented hot water supply systems 65 83 100 3½
Unvented hot water supply systems 65 95 100 6
including instantaneous heaters and/or
incorporating storage
Vented central heating systems and 82 95 100 3½
indirect hot water primary circuits
Sealed central heating systems and 82 105 114 3
indirect hot water primary circuits
Continuously operated re-circulating systems are excluded from these applications
A)
Where a nominal working pressure does not comprise an integer value, the mantissa is expressed in a fractional
format. This is done to reduce the possibility of misinterpretation or obscurity that could cause a system to be
subjected to an excessive pressure (see also 8.4).
B)
1 bar = 105 N/m2 = 105 Pa.

5 Dimensions

5.1 General
Subject to 5.2 and 5.3, the dimensions and their tolerances for specific
pipes shall be as specified in BS 7291-2 and BS 7291-3, as applicable,
and shall be compatible with either:
a) outside diameters up to and including 110 mm for pipe systems
conforming to BS ISO 4065; or
b) compression fittings conforming to BS EN 1254-2 and/or
BS EN 1254-3 to suit sizes of tube up to and including 35 mm
conforming to BS EN 1057.
NOTE 1 The sizes adopted for a specific component may be selected
from either or both of the ranges in a) and b).
NOTE 2 The dimensions and associated tolerances for fittings to suit a
given pipe and application are not specified but are controlled by the
need for conformity with the performance requirements of BS 7291-1 and
BS 7291-2 and BS 7291-3, as applicable. The method of designating the
size or pattern of a fitting is specified in 8.5.

5.2 Wall thickness of pipes

When determined in accordance with BS EN ISO 3126, the wall
thickness of pipe shall be not less than one eleventh of the outside
diameter, subject to a minimum value of 1.5 mm.

4 • © BSI 2010
BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

5.3 Coatings
If pipe is coated, the coating shall be sufficiently thin and/or
removable to enable jointing with fittings and materials specified in
BS 7291-2:2010, 5.1, or BS 7291-3:2010, 5.1, as applicable.
NOTE Attention is drawn to 6.1; consideration should be given to the
possibility of diffusion of external coating constituents through the wall
of the pipe to its interior.

6 Performance

6.1 Effect of materials on the quality of drinking water

Non-metallic products in contact or likely to come into contact with
drinking water shall conform to BS 6920-1.
NOTE There is no corresponding British Standard or associated test
methods generally applicable to metallic products which might come
into contact with drinking water. Attention is drawn to the Water Supply
(Water Fittings) Regulations [2] and to BS EN 1254-2 and/or BS EN 1254-3.

6.2 Long-term hydrostatic strength of pipes

6.2.1 Pipes shall either:
a) conform to 6.2.2; or
b) be tested in accordance with, and conform to,
BS EN ISO 15875-2:2003, 4.2 (PE-X), or BS EN ISO 15876-2:2003, 4.2
(PB), as applicable.
6.2.2 When pipes are tested in accordance with Annex A:
a) there shall be no rupturing or cracking throughout the wall
thickness of the test piece at any point, or leakage at any
associated joint under test; and
b) the extrapolated failure times at the circumferential stress values
given in Table 2 shall be not less than 438 000 h (50 years); and
c) the 97.5% lower confidence limits of the failure times at those
stress values shall be not less than 100 000 h.

Table 2 Circumferential stress values

Temperature Stress
°C MPa
20 9.0
65 4.5
100 2.6

© BSI 2010 • 5
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

6.3 Hydrostatic pressure resistance of assembled pipes

and fittings
When fittings are tested in accordance with Annex B, there shall be no
rupturing or cracking throughout the wall thickness of the test piece
at any point, or leakage at any associated joint under test, and:
a) the time to failure at 20 ºC and 20 bar pressure shall be not less
than 1 000 h;
b) the time to failure at 95 °C and 10 bar pressure shall be not less
than 1 000 h.

6.4 Resistance to thermal cycling of assembled pipes

and fittings
When tested in accordance with Annex C, there shall be no leakage
from pipes, fittings or joints during or at the end of testing.
NOTE The test in Annex C may be used to confirm compatibility of
thermoplastics pipes and fittings with copper pipes and compression
fittings conforming to BS EN 1057 and/or BS EN 1254-2 and/or BS EN 1254-3.
In this case, the test is performed with copper pipes and thermoplastics
fittings using the assembly shown in Figure C.1 and with thermoplastics
pipes and compression fittings using the assembly shown in Figure C.2
This is not a requirement of BS 7291:2010 and is included as an optional
procedure to provide evidence of compliance with the regulators’
specification for water fittings requirements.

6.5 Resistance to cyclic pressure shock of assembled

pipes and fittings
When tested in accordance with Annex D, there shall be no leakage
from pipes, fittings or joints.

6.6 Opacity
When determined in accordance with BS EN ISO 7686, the percentage
of light passing through the wall of the pipe or fitting shall not
exceed 0.2%. In the case of pipe supplied in a protective sleeve, this
requirement shall relate to the performance of the combination of
both pipe and sleeve.
To ensure conformity, the combination of pipe and sleeve shall not
depend upon subsequent assembly of pipe and sleeve.

6.7 Oxygen permeability of multilayer oxygen barrier

pipes
When multilayer oxygen barrier pipes are tested in accordance with
BS ISO 17455:2005, Method I, at a temperature of 80 °C and with four
connecting fittings of the system under test, the oxygen permeability
shall be ≤3.6 mg/m2.day.

6.8 Conditions constituting a change of material

If any of the characteristics in Table 3 are changed, or any level
exceeds the band, the product shall be retested in accordance with
this part of BS 7291 and BS 7291-2 (polybutylene) or BS 7291-3
(cross-linked polyethylene), as applicable.

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BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

Table 3 Conditions constituting a change of material

Type of material change Characteristics, value X and band

Change of polymer Change of supplier
Change of polymerization
Change of chemical properties of
comonomers
Change of additive package Amount greater than X ±30% of
(e.g. pigments, antioxidants) individual additive;
Chemical properties or nature of
additive

7 Intermediate layers of multilayer pipes

Any intermediate layers shall include only layers made of polymers; no
metal layers shall be used.

8 Marking and associated information

8.1 Each pipe shall be marked in accordance with BS 7291-2:2010, 6.1,
or BS 7291-3:2010, 6.1, as applicable.
8.2 Each fitting shall be marked in accordance with BS 7291-2:2010, 6.2,
or BS 7291-3:2010, 6.2.
8.3 The marking specified in BS 7291-2:2010, Clause 6, and
BS 7291-3:2010, Clause 6, shall contrast clearly with the colour of
the pipe, fitting or label, as applicable. It shall remain legible under
handling, storage and installation conditions in accordance with
BS 5955-8. Marking by indentation shall be to a depth not greater
than 0.15 mm. There shall be no spaces greater than 0.5 m in length
between each block of text.
8.4 If additional markings include a pressure rating that does not
comprise an integer value, the mantissa shall be presented as a fraction,
e.g. 3½ (see Table 1).
8.5 The nominal size of a fitting or of each individual socket thereon
shall be designated by the nominal size of the pipe(s) with which it is
to be used. The method of designating the fitting shall be as follows,
depending on the type of fitting.
a) Straight fittings and bends. For fittings having two unequal ends,
the larger end shall be given first, e.g. 20 × 16.
b) Tee fittings. Tee fittings shall be designated first by the ends
on the run, i.e. two ends in the same straight line with, where
applicable, the larger of the two being specified first, followed by
the other end. (See Figure 1.)
c) Transition fittings. The end relating to BS 7291-1 shall be given
first, followed by the other end.
EXAMPLES
22 mm × ¾ BSP thread external
10 mm × ½ BSP tail pipe end
22 mm × ¾ tank connector
15 mm × ½ tap connector

© BSI 2010 • 7
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

Figure 1 Designation of fittings

Dimensions in millimetres
15

22 22

22 x 22 x 15 tee

28

22 15

22 x 15 x 28 tee

8 • © BSI 2010
BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

Annex A (normative) Test for minimum failure time

A.1 Principle
This method determines the minimum failure time of a thermoplastics
material to be used for pipes or fittings class conforming to this
standard. Test pieces are in the form of pipe or an assembly of pipes
and fittings at the relevant temperatures, or interpolated, from
testing, at temperatures above and below those quoted in Table A.2.
The test pieces are subjected to levels of sustained hydrostatic
stress to produce failures of the pipe alone after periods according
to Table A.1. The data are extrapolated to determine the failure
times at the relevant stresses and temperatures, with reference to a
lower 97.5% confidence limits for the results.

A.2 Apparatus and test temperature

The apparatus shall conform to BS EN ISO 1167-1 and
BS EN ISO 1167-2, with water or air for the external test environment.
The test temperatures shall be either those given in Table 2, in which
case the failure time at the required stress shall be calculated by the
method given in A.5, or other test temperatures, provided they are
suitable for interpolation of the results in accordance with A.6.

A.3 Test pieces

Each test piece shall be a pipe manufactured from the thermoplastics
material to be tested in barrier, non-barrier, or multilayer form. It shall
have an outside diameter of 22 mm or the nearest to that diameter in
a manufacturer’s range of products. The test piece shall be closed with
pressure-tight caps or plugs such that the free length between end
caps or plugs shall be not less than 150 mm.

A.4 Procedure
Obtain at least 18 test results at each test temperature for the
calculation of the log of time versus log of stress regression line
specified in A.5, with a failure data point distribution in accordance
with Table A.1. Include as failures at the time of testing those test pieces
that have not failed after being under test for more than 10 000 h if
they increase the value of the extrapolated failure time [see 6.2.2b)].

Table A.1 Failure point distribution

Failure time range Minimum data point Recommended data

h distribution point distribution A)
> 10 and < 50 2 ≥4
≥ 50 and < 2 500 3 ≥5
≥ 2 500 and < 6 500 3 ≥4
≥ 6 500 and < 10 000 2 ≥4
≥ 10 000 1 ≥1
Total 11 + 7 others ≥ 18
A)
While 18 data points, distributed as shown in column 2, is the minimum
pattern required, it is recommended that sufficient data points be obtained.

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BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

A.5 Method of calculation of the regression line of log

time on log stress
A.5.1 The following symbols are used:
n is the number of observations;
fi is the log of stress (in megapascals) of observation i, i = 1, …, n;
hi is the log of time (in hours) of observation i; i = 1, …, n;
f is the arithmetic mean of all fi values:
1 n
∑f
n i=1 i
(A.1)

h is the arithmetic mean of all hi values:

1 n
∑h
n i=1 i
(A.2)

The regression equation of log time (h) on log stress (f ) is:

h = a + bf (A.3)
A.5.2 Calculate the following three quantities.
n
Sff = ∑i=1fi2 − n(f )2 (A.4)

n
Shh = ∑i=1h i2 − n (h )2 (A.5)

n
Sfh = ∑i=1fi h i − nf h (A.6)

A.5.3 Calculate b and a using equations (A.7) and (A.8).

Sfh
b= (A.7)
Sff

a = h − bf (A.8)

If the slope of the regression line, b, is not negative, reject the results.
A.5.4 Calculate the mean failure time (in hours) at each required
stress, using equation (A.3), where:
f is the log of the stress (in megapascals) given in Table 2 for a
given test temperature;
antilog h is the failure time (in hours) at a given stress and test
temperature.
A.5.5 Calculate the lower 97.5% confidence limit of the mean failure
time at each required stress as follows.
Determine the residual variance about the regression line, Sr2, from
the following equation:

1  S2 
Sr2 = Shh − fh (A.9)
n− 2 Sff 

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BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

Calculate the lower 97.5% confidence limit for one future observation
at each stress from the following equation:
0.5

( )
2
1 f0 − f
h0 = a + bfo − tv Sr 1+ + 
 (A.10)
n Sff
 

where:
h0 is the 97.5% lower confidence limit of the estimated log
time before failure (in hours) at a given stress and test
temperature;
f0 is the log of the stress (in megapascals) given in Table 2 for
test temperature;
tv is the Student’s t for v = n − 2 degrees of freedom, as given
in Table A.2, which gives the upper 2.5% points.

A.6 Interpolation
If testing has been carried out at temperatures other than those given
in Table 2, providing data at two temperatures, one above (T1) and one
below (T2) the temperature (Tf) specified, use the following method of
interpolation to estimate failure times at a given temperature.
Following the procedure in A.4 and A.5, calculate the values of h at
each temperature, h(T1) and h(T2), for the specified stress value.
Calculate the estimated value of h(Tf) for the specified temperature
and stress value using the following equation:

(h( T 2) − h( T1) )(T1 − Tf )

h(Tf) = h( T1) + (A.11)
(T1 − T2 )

Use the same method for the calculation of interpolated values of the
lower 97.5% confidence limit of the estimated time before failure (h0 )
at a given stress and test temperature.

A.7 Test report

The test report shall include the following:
a) identification of the test specimens;
b) a reference to this method of test, i.e. BS 7291-1:2010, Annex A;
c) the test temperature;
d) the estimated failure time and lower 97.5% confidence limit of
failure time (in hours) at a given test temperature and stress at
this value;
e) the interpolated values for failure times and lower 97.5%
confidence limits at the stress values and temperatures required
for conformity to Table 2;
f) the date of the test, e.g. the month(s) and year(s) during which
the pressure testing was conducted.

© BSI 2010 • 11
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

Table A.2 Percentage points of Student’s t distribution (upper 2.5 % points)

v tv v tv v tv
1 12.706 2 46 2.012 9 91 1.986 4
2 4.302 7 47 2.011 7 92 1.986 1
3 3.182 4 48 2.010 6 93 1.985 8
4 2.776 4 49 2.009 6 94 1.985 5
5 2.570 6 50 2.008 6 95 1.985 3
6 2.446 9 51 2.007 6 96 1.985 0
7 2.364 6 52 2.006 6 97 1.984 7
8 2.306 0 53 2.005 7 98 1.984 5
9 2.262 2 54 2.004 9 99 1.984 2
10 2.228 1 55 2.004 0 100 1.984 0
11 2.201 0 56 2.003 2 102 1.983 5
12 2.178 8 57 2.002 5 104 1.983 0
13 2.160 4 58 2.001 7 106 1.982 6
14 2.144 8 59 2.001 0 108 1.982 2
15 2.131 5 60 2.000 3 110 1.981 8
16 2.119 9 61 1.999 6 112 1.981 4
17 2.109 8 62 1.999 0 114 1.981 0
18 2.100 9 63 1.998 3 116 1.980 6
19 2.093 0 64 1.997 7 118 1.980 3
20 2.086 0 65 1.997 1 120 1.979 9
21 2.079 6 66 1.996 6 122 1.979 6
22 2.073 9 67 1.996 0 124 1.979 3
23 2.068 7 68 1.995 5 126 1.979 0
24 2.063 9 69 1.994 9 128 1.978 7
25 2.059 5 70 1.994 4 130 1.978 4
26 2.055 5 71 1.993 9 132 1.978 1
27 2.051 8 72 1.993 5 134 1.977 8
28 2.048 4 73 1.993 0 136 1.977 6
29 2.045 2 74 1.992 5 138 1.977 3
30 2.042 3 75 1.992 1 140 1.977 1
31 2.039 5 76 1.991 7 142 1.976 8
32 2.036 9 77 1.991 3 144 1.976 6
33 2.034 5 78 1.990 8 146 1.976 3
34 2.032 2 79 1.990 5 148 1.976 1
35 2.030 1 80 1.990 1 150 1.975 9
36 2.028 1 81 1.989 7 200 1.971 9
37 2.026 2 82 1.989 3 300 1.967 9
38 2.024 4 83 1.989 0 400 1.965 9
39 2.022 7 84 1.988 6 500 1.964 7
40 2.021 1 85 1.988 3 600 1.963 9
41 2.019 5 86 1.987 9 700 1.963 4
42 2.018 1 87 1.987 6 800 1.962 9
43 2.016 7 88 1.987 3 900 1.962 6
44 2.015 4 89 1.987 0 1 000 1.962 3
45 2.014 1 90 1.986 7 ∞ 1.960 0

12 • © BSI 2010
BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

Annex B (normative) Method of test for hydrostatic pressure

resistance of assembled pipes and fittings

B.1 Principle
An assembly incorporating one or more fittings jointed with pipe
is subjected to a sustained pressure at a specified temperature, and
inspected for rupture or leakage before a specified period of time
has elapsed.

B.2 Apparatus
The apparatus shall conform to BS EN ISO 1167-1 and BS EN ISO 1167-2,
with water or air as the external test environment, together with
ancillary supports as necessary to accommodate a test assembly
conforming to B.3.

B.3 Test assembly

The test assembly shall comprise an assembly of at least one fitting
having at least one connection jointed and clipped in accordance
with the manufacturer’s recommended practice to the corresponding
PB (BS 7291-2) or PE-X pipe (BS 7291-3) and, if required, copper pipe.
This pipe may be connected in turn with other fittings comprising
either other test pieces or fittings in the form of terminal fittings
or pressure-tight connections in accordance with BS EN ISO 1167-2,
e.g. as shown in Figure B.1.

B.4 Procedure
Prepare the test assembly for testing and prime it with water so
that all air is excluded. Bring the test piece and its contents to the
temperature specified in 6.3a) or 6.3b), as applicable. Condition and
pressurize them in accordance with BS EN ISO 1167-1 to establish
the applicable test conditions. Maintain the test conditions until
the fitting, pipe or any associated joint under test fails or until the
minimum required period under test has been exceeded.

B.5 Test report

The test report shall include the following:
a) identification of the component(s) under test;
b) a reference to this method of test, i.e. BS 7291-1:2010, Annex B;
c) the test temperature and test pressure;
d) any observations of rupturing or signs of leakage;
e) the dates between which the testing under pressure was conducted
and the period (in hours) for which no failure was apparent.

© BSI 2010 • 13
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

Figure B.1 Typical arrangement for hydrostatic pressure resistance test for fittings

Pressure gauge

Air release valve

P
P

Pressure application

Pipe

Fitting

Pipe

Fitting

Annex C (normative) Method of test for resistance to

thermal cycling

C.1 Principle
An assembly of pipe and fittings is subjected to thermal cycling by the
passage of water, followed by a brief test at elevated pressure, then
inspected for leakage.

C.2 Apparatus
The apparatus shall comprise means of:
a) alternately circulating hot and cold water through the test
assembly in accordance with the schedules given in Table C.1;
b) regulating the water pressure in the test assembly; and
c) measuring the water temperature at the inlet to and outlet from
the test assembly.
The alternation equipment shall be capable of effecting each change
between hot and cold water sources within a specified period.
For testing of flexible pipe, devices shall be included to apply a sustained
tension to lengths of straight pipe.

14 • © BSI 2010
BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

Table C.1 Thermal cycling test schedule

Hot water Cold water Minimum Number of

Inlet Duration Inlet Duration pressure cycles
temperature temperature
°C min °C min bar
83 ±2 20 15 ±5 10 6 5 000

114 ±2 20 15 ±5 10 3½ 1 000

105 ±2 20 15 ±5 10 3½ 5 000

C.3 Test assembly

C.3.1 General
The test assembly shall comprise pipe and fittings jointed and clipped
in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Where a range of fittings is available, the assembly shall comprise a
representative selection of sizes and configurations manufactured or
recommended by the manufacturer, arranged so that the sizes under
test increase sequentially in the direction of flow, e.g. as shown in
Figure C.1.

Figure C.1 Test assembly for systems based on rigid pipes

Overall control

Size 16 Size 12 Size 10

(see note 1)

Cold water

Control valves

Hot water

Control valves

Control valves

Cold water

NOTE 1 Free length of vertical pipes is at least 2 m.

NOTE 2 Free length of horizontal pipe is at least 3 m.

© BSI 2010 • 15
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

C.3.2 Systems using rigid pipes

The test assembly shall be as shown in Figure C.1, with:
a) the free length of vertical pipes of at least 2 m;
b) the free length of horizontal pipes of at least 3 m;
c) the total number of fittings being no fewer than 20 and including
one or more of each of the following types of fittings:
1) straight connector;
2) 90º elbow;
3) 90º tee;
4) plastics to metal transition fitting.
If a manufacturer recommends a particular installation practice,
for example an expansion loop, bend clip or cold bend, it shall be
included in the test.

C.3.3 Systems using flexible pipes

The test assembly shall include:
a) at least one pair of pre-stressed pipes linked by a straight connector,
incorporated in accordance with Figure C.2 (see Branch A) and
stressed in accordance with C.4, with the free length of each such
combination being 3 m ±25 mm;
b) at least two straight pipes, each free to move when incorporated
as shown in Figure C.2 (see Branch B) and each having a free
length of (300 ±5) mm;
c) at least one bent pipe, as shown in Figure C.3, with each pipe
supported only by its ends when incorporated in accordance
with Figure C.2, such that the free length of the pipe lies in the
range 27de to 28de, inclusive, where de is the nominal outside
diameter of the pipe.

C.4 Procedure
Prepare the test assembly for testing and prime it with water so that
all air is excluded.
In the case of flexible piping, pre-stress the test pieces (see C.3.3 and
Figure C.2) to an initial tensile stress equivalent to that induced by
contraction when subjected to a temperature drop of 20 °C.
Subject the test assembly to the passage of the specified cycles of hot
and cold water at the pressures, temperatures and durations specified
in Table C.1, with each temperature change from hot to cold water
and vice versa effected within 1 min. Perform any desired tightening
or adjustment of joints within the first five cycles. Control the flow
rate of the circulating water such that the measured temperature
drop on the hot cycle from the inlet to the outlet of the test assembly
does not exceed 5 ºC.
On completion of the cyclic test schedule, subject the assembly to an
internal pressure of not less than 18 bar at (15 ±5) ºC for not less than
15 min and inspect all joints for signs of leakage.
NOTE To minimize temperature differences, balancing valves or series
connections might be necessary in parts of the circuit.

16 • © BSI 2010
BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

C.5 Test report

The test report shall include the following:
a) identification of the components under test;
b) a reference to this method of test; i.e. BS 7291-1:2010; Annex C;
c) the test conditions, as indicated by Class “S”;
d) any observations of signs of leakage;
e) the period of the test, e.g. the dates between which the thermal
cycling test schedule was conducted.

Figure C.2 Test assembly for systems based on flexible pipes

Branch A (anchored section)

3 000
Branch B
(section free
300 300 300
to expand and
contract)

Elbow

Pipe with guide

Branch C (cold bent pipe section) Free pipe

See figure 4
Fixed straight connector

Fixed elbow

© BSI 2010 • 17
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

Figure C.3 Configuration of bent flexible pipes for thermal cycle testing

20 de
3de

NOTE Free length of pipe is 27de to 28de where de is the outside diameter of the pipe.

Annex D (normative) Method of test for resistance to cyclic

pressure shock

D.1 Principle
An assembly of pipes and/or fittings is subjected to rapid pressure
cycling between two positive pressure limits via a liquid medium while
being maintained at elevated temperature and inspected for leakage.

D.2 Apparatus
D.2.1 Means for regulating the temperature of the test assembly and
water therein, while subjecting the latter to cyclic pressure variations
between specified limits at a rate of not less than 30 cycles per minute.
NOTE A typical arrangement is shown in Figure D.1.

D.3 Test assembly

The test assembly shall comprise three samples of each pipe and/or
fitting under test, jointed in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions with one or more pieces of pipe, and each at least 10dn in
length, where dn is the nominal outside diameter of the pipe.
NOTE In order to include the required number of pipes and/or fittings,
several assemblies may be tested simultaneously.

D.4 Procedure
Prepare the test assembly for testing and prime it with water so
that all air is excluded. Bring the test assembly and water therein
to (93 ±2) °C and condition it at that temperature for at least 1 h
immediately before applying alternately internal positive pressures
of (1 ±0.5) bar and (9 ±0.5) bar at a frequency of at least 30 pressure
cycles (i.e. 1 bar to 9 bar to 1 bar again) per minute, while continuing
to maintain the temperature.

18 • © BSI 2010
BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

After completing 10 000 cycles, inspect all test components and

associated joints for signs of leakage.
NOTE The conditioning may be carried out with the test assembly or
assemblies connected to the pressure converter, but not necessarily so. If
subsequent connection is necessary, it is important to ensure that all air is
again excluded.

D.5 Test report

The test report shall include the following:
a) identification of the components and joints under test;
b) a reference to this method of test, i.e. BS 7291-1:2010, Annex D;
c) any observations of signs of leakage;
d) the date of the test.

Figure D.1 Diagram of typical equipment arrangement for cyclic pressure shock test

Electric
control

Solenoid
valve

Water
Temperature
controlled
chamber
Compressed
air cylinder Air

Pressure converter
Test assemblies

Annex E (informative) Guidance on factory control procedures

The following guidance on the nature of the requirements and test
methods specified in this part of BS 7291 is provided to assist in the
preparation of quality plans for the manufacture of pipes or fittings
conforming to this and other parts of BS 7291.
The applicability of specific requirements and associated methods of
test to different types of pipe or fitting is summarized in Table E.1, in
which each requirement is classified as being considered particularly
suitable for type test and/or batch release test (BRT) purposes.
Type tests are intended to prove the suitability and performance of a
material composition, a compounding or processing technique or a
design or size of pipe, fitting or joint assembly. Such tests should be
performed when any introduction or change is made in one or more

© BSI 2010 • 19
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

of those aspects, but they may be performed more frequently by

incorporation into a plan for monitoring the consistency of manufacture.
Batch release tests are carried out during and/or following
manufacture to monitor the quality of a product item, as applicable.
Certain test methods and associated requirements have been
included because of the practicality and speed with which they can be
performed in conjunction with a production process, compared with
some of the type tests.
Some of the requirements in this standard are relevant to both type
test and BRT purposes, e.g. those for dimensions.

Table E.1 Applicability of requirements and test methods

Product Property Clause Method Test type

Type test BRT
Pipes and fittings Dimensions 5 BS EN ISO 3126 ×
Pipes and fittings Effect on the quality of 6.1 BS 6920-1 ×
potable water
Pipes Long-term hydrostatic 6.2 BS 7291-1, Annex A ×
strength
Pipes and fittings Hydrostatic pressure 6.3 BS 7291-1, Annex B ×
resistance
Pipes and fittings Resistance to thermal cycling 6.4 BS 7291-1, Annex C ×
Pipes and fittings Resistance to cyclic pressure 6.5 BS 7291-1, Annex D ×
shock
Pipes and fittings Opacity 6.6 BS EN ISO 7686 ×
Pipes Oxygen permeability 6.7 BS 7291-1, 6.7 ×
Pipes and fittings Marking and associated 8 × ×
information
NOTE All references to BS 7291-1:2010.

20 • © BSI 2010
BRITISH STANDARD BS 7291-1:2010

Bibliography
Standards publications
For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including
any amendments) applies.
BS EN ISO/IEC 17025, General requirements for the competence of
testing and calibration laboratories
BS EN ISO 9000, Quality management systems

Other publications
[1] GREAT BRITAIN: The Health and Safety at Work, etc Act 1974,
London: The Stationery Office: London.
[2] GREAT BRITAIN: The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations
1999, No. 1148, London: The Stationery Office: London.

© BSI 2010 • 21
BS 7291-1:2010 BRITISH STANDARD

22 • © BSI 2010 This page deliberately left blank

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