Bsi bs en 12201 3 2011 + a1 2012 (2013)

BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012

BSI Standards Publication

Plastics piping systems for
water supply, and for drainage
and sewerage under pressure
— Polyethylene (PE)
Part
General
Part 1:
3: Fittings


BRITISH STANDARD

BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
National
Nationalforeword
foreword

This British Standard is the UK implementation of
BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012. It supersedes BS EN 12201-3:2011
which is withdrawn.
The start and finish of text introduced or altered by amendment is
indicated in the text by tags. Tags indicating changes to CEN text carry
the number of the CEN amendment. For example, text altered by CEN
amendment A1 is by !".
NOTE 1 There is no Part 6 in the EN 12201 series. Instead users of BS EN 12201
The UK
participation

in its
preparation
wasSpecification
entrusted for
to Technical
should
refer
to Water Industry
Specification
4-32-08
the fusion
Committee
PRI/88/2,
Plastics
piping
for
pressure
applications.
jointing of polyethylene pressure pipeline systems using PE80 and PE100 materials,
obtainable
from www.water.org.uk.
In addition,
guidance
provided
by be
the
A list of organizations
represented
on this
committee

can
manufacturer of the pipes and fittings should be followed.

obtained on request to its secretary.

NOTE 2 Part 7 of the EN 12201 series has been prepared as a CEN/TS to
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary
allow further development. CEN/TS 12201-7 is not mandatory under the Public
provisions of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct
Procurement Directives (2004/18/EC and 2004/17/EC).

application.

As yet there is no pan-European agreement on water quality requirements,
© BSI 2011
so existing UK regulations remain in force.

ISBN 978 0 580 69591 9

The following regulations apply to the approval of substances and products
ICS 23.040.45;
91.140.60;
93.030
used
in the provision
of public
water supplies within the United Kingdom:

a British
cannot

confer
immunity
a)Compliance
England –with
Regulation
31Standard
of The Water
Supply
(Water
Quality)from
legal
obligations.
Regulations 2000 (Statutory Instruments 2000 No 3184)
British
Standard was
published
under
the
authority
of the
b)ThisWales
– Regulation
31 of
The Water
Supply
(Water
Quality)
Standards
Policy2001
and(Welsh

Strategy
Committee
on 302001
September
Regulations
Statutory
Instrument
No 39112011.
(W.323)
c)Amendments
Scotland – Regulation
27publication
of The Water Supply (Water Quality)
issued since
(Scotland)
Regulations
2001
Date
Text affected
d)

Northern Ireland – Regulation 30 of The Water Supply (Water
Quality) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2009
(Statutory Rules of Northern Ireland 2009 No.246)

For further information, go to: />As part of the regulations, all pipes and fittings used to convey drinking
water supplies are required to be approved under the provisions of
Regulation 31, as applicable. In addition manufacturers may obtain
approval under the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) to confirm
that use of their products will not cause adverse effect on water quality or a

risk to health of consumers.
National Annex NA provides additional information on the selection and
installation of piping systems and components in the UK.
Attention is drawn to the following statutory regulation: Health & Safety
at Work etc. Act 1974, and subsequent regulations.
The requirements contained in the EN 12201 series of standards are not
necessarily indicative of all the performance requirements, or the suitability
of pipework for the service conditions, likely to be encountered in the UK.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted by Technical
Committee PRI/88, Plastics piping systems, to subcommittee PRI/88/2,
Plastics piping for pressure applications.
A list of organizations represented on this subcommittee can be obtained
on request to its secretary.


BRITISH STANDARD

BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012

National
foreword

This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 12201-3:2011.
It supersedes BS EN 12201-3:2003 and BS EN 13244-3:2002, which
are withdrawn.
© The British Standards Institution 2013.
Published by BSI Standards Limited 2013

Committee PRI/88/2, Plastics piping for pressure applications.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be

obtained on request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary
provisions of a contract. Users are res1ponsible for its correct
application.
© BSI 2011
ISBN 978 0 580 69591 9
ICS 23.040.45; 91.140.60; 93.030
Implementation of CEN amendment A1:2012
31
30January 2013
Compliance
with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal
obligations.
Standards
Policy and Strategy Committee on 30 September 2011.
Amendments issued since publication
Date

Text affected


EUROPEAN STANDARD

EN 12201-3:2011+A1

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM

November 2012

ICS 23.040.45

Supersedes EN 12201-3:2011

English Version

Plastics piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and
sewerage under pressure - Polyethylene (PE) - Part 3: Fittings
Systèmes de canalisations en plastique pour l'alimentation
en eau et pour les branchements et les collecteurs
d'assainissement avec pression - Polyéthylène (PE) Partie 3 : Raccords

Kunststoff-Rohrleitungssysteme für die Wasserversorgung
und für Entwässerungs- und Abwasserdruckleitungen Polyethylen (PE) - Teil 3: Formstücke

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 8 July 2011 and includes Amendment 1 approved by CEN on 4 September 2012.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national
standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation
under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the same
status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United
Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

Management Centre: Avenue Marnix 17, B-1000 Brussels

© 2012 CEN

All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Ref. No. EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012: E


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

Contents

Page

Foreword .............................................................................................................................................................. 4
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................... 6
1

Scope............................................................................................................................................................ 7

2

Normative references ................................................................................................................................. 8

3

Terms and definitions, symbols and abbreviations ................................................................................ 9

4 Material ....................................................................................................................................................... 10
4.1 PE compound ......................................................................................................................................... 10
4.2 Material for non-polyethylene parts ..................................................................................................... 10
4.2.1 General .................................................................................................................................................. 10
4.2.2 Metal parts ............................................................................................................................................ 11
4.2.3 Elastomers ............................................................................................................................................ 11
4.2.4 Other materials ..................................................................................................................................... 11
5 General characteristics ............................................................................................................................ 11
5.1 Appearance............................................................................................................................................. 11
5.2 Design ..................................................................................................................................................... 11
5.3 Colour ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
5.4 Electrical characteristics for electrofusion fittings ............................................................................ 11
5.5 Appearance of factory made joints ...................................................................................................... 12
5.6 Effect on water quality ........................................................................................................................... 12
6 Geometrical characteristics ..................................................................................................................... 12
6.1 Measurement of dimensions ................................................................................................................ 12
6.2 Dimensions of electrofusion socket fittings ....................................................................................... 12
6.2.1 Diameters and lengths of electrofusion sockets .............................................................................. 12
6.2.2 Wall thicknesses .................................................................................................................................. 14
6.2.3 Out-of-roundness of the bore of a fitting (at any point) ................................................................... 15
6.3 Dimensions of spigot end fittings ........................................................................................................ 15
6.4 Dimensions of socket fusion fittings ................................................................................................... 17
6.5 Dimensions of electrofusion saddle fittings ....................................................................................... 17
6.6 Dimensions of mechanical fittings....................................................................................................... 18
6.7 Dimensions of loose backing flanges and flange adapters .............................................................. 18
6.8 Dimensions of fabricated fittings ......................................................................................................... 18
7 Mechanical characteristics ...................................................................................................................... 18

7.1 General .................................................................................................................................................... 18
7.2 Conditioning ........................................................................................................................................... 19
7.3 Requirements ......................................................................................................................................... 19
7.4 Retest in case of failure at 80 °C .......................................................................................................... 21
7.5 Pressure drop ......................................................................................................................................... 21
7.6 Performance requirements ................................................................................................................... 21
8 Physical characteristics ........................................................................................................................... 22
8.1 Conditioning ........................................................................................................................................... 22
8.2 Requirements ......................................................................................................................................... 22

2


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

9

Chemical resistance of fittings in contact with chemicals ................................................................... 22

10 Performance requirements ...................................................................................................................... 22
11 Marking ...................................................................................................................................................... 23
11.1 General.................................................................................................................................................... 23
11.2 Minimum required marking of fittings ................................................................................................. 23
11.3 Additional marking ................................................................................................................................ 24
11.4 Fusion system recognition ................................................................................................................... 24
12 Delivery Conditions .................................................................................................................................. 24
Annex A (normative) Socket fusion fittings ................................................................................................... 25
Annex B (normative) Fabricated fittings ........................................................................................................ 27
B.1 General ....................................................................................................................................................... 27

B.2 Dimensions ................................................................................................................................................ 28
B.3 Segmented bends ..................................................................................................................................... 29
B.4 Swept bends .............................................................................................................................................. 31
B.5 Segmented tees ........................................................................................................................................ 32
Annex C (informative) Examples of typical terminal connection for electrofusion fittings ...................... 34
Annex D (normative) Short-term pressure test method ............................................................................... 37
D.1 Principle ..................................................................................................................................................... 37
D.2 Apparatus .................................................................................................................................................. 37
D.3 Test piece .................................................................................................................................................. 37
D.4 Procedure .................................................................................................................................................. 37
D.5 Test report ................................................................................................................................................. 38
Annex E (normative) Tensile test for fitting/pipe assemblies ...................................................................... 39
E.1 Principle ..................................................................................................................................................... 39
E.2 Apparatus .................................................................................................................................................. 39
E.3 Test piece .................................................................................................................................................. 39
E.4 Procedure .................................................................................................................................................. 39
E.5 Test report ................................................................................................................................................. 39
Bibliography ...................................................................................................................................................... 41

3


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

Foreword
This document (EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 155
“Plastics piping systems and ducting systems”, the secretariat of which is held by NEN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an identical
text or by endorsement, at the latest by May 2013, and conflicting national standards shall be withdrawn at the

latest by May 2013.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of patent
rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document includes Amendment 1 approved by CEN on 4 September 2012.
This document supersedes !EN 12201-3:2011".
The start and finish of text introduced or altered by amendment is indicated in the text by tags !".
!Due to Amendment 1 to EN 12201-3:2011, this document comprises technical changes to:


Subclause 7.3, Requirements."

System Standards are based on the results of the work being undertaken in ISO/TC 138 "Plastics pipes,
fittings and valves for the transport of fluids", which is a Technical Committee of the International Organization
for Standardization (ISO).
They are supported by separate standards on test methods to which references are made throughout the
system Standard.
The System Standards are consistent with general standards on functional requirements and on
recommended practice for installation.
EN 12201 consists of the following parts:


EN 12201-1, Plastics piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and sewerage under pressure —
Polyethylene (PE) — Part 1: General;



EN 12201-2, Plastics piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and sewerage under pressure —
Polyethylene (PE) — Part 2: Pipes;



EN 12201-3, Plastics piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and sewerage under pressure —
Polyethylene (PE) — Part 3: Fittings (this standard);



EN 12201-4, Plastics piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and sewerage under pressure —
Polyethylene (PE) — Part 4: Valves for water supply systems;



EN 12201-5, Plastics piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and sewerage under pressure —
Polyethylene (PE) — Part 5: Fitness for purpose of the system;



CEN/TS 12201-7, Plastics piping systems for water supply — Polyethylene (PE) — Part 7: Guidance for
the assessment of conformity.

4


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

In this revision the test methods have been updated as appropriate and in accordance with other parts of this
standard.
According to the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the following
countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech
Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece,

Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

5


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

Introduction
The System Standard, of which this is Part 3, specifies the requirements for a piping system and its
components when made from polyethylene (PE), intended to be used for water supply intended for human
consumption, including the conveyance of raw water prior to treatment, drainage and sewerage under
pressure, vacuum sewer systems, and water for other purposes.
In respect of potential adverse effects on the quality of water intended for human consumption, caused by the
product covered by EN 12201 (all parts):
a) this European Standard provides no information as to whether the products may be used without
restriction in any of the Member States of the EU or EFTA;
b) products intended for use in water supply systems must comply, when existing, with national
regulations and testing arrangements that ensure fitness for contact with drinking water.
NOTE
On April 2006, EC Commission set up a revised mandate (M/136) asking CEN to propose harmonised product
standards and support standards for test methods which could be used for assessing the fitness for contact with drinking
water. In parallel, EC Commission has launched processes for a regulation of construction products (CPR) to be
substituted to CP directive (89/106/EEC) and for the revision of drinking water directive (98/83/EC). If relevant, when the
ouputs of these processes will be known, European Product Standards will be amended by the addition of an Annex Z
under Mandate M136 which will contain formal references to the applicable requirements. Until such amendments, the
current national regulations remain applicable.

Requirements and test methods for material and components, other than fittings, are specified in EN 12201-1,

EN 12201-2 and prEN 12201-4:2011.
Characteristics for fitness of purpose are covered in EN 12201-5. CEN/TS 12201-7 [2] gives guidance for the
assessment of conformity.
This Part of EN 12201 covers the characteristics of fittings.

6


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

1

Scope

This !European Standard" specifies the characteristics of fittings made from polyethylene (PE 100 and
PE 80) intended for the conveyance of water for human consumption, raw water prior to treatment, drainage
and sewerage under pressure, vacuum sewer systems, and water for other purposes.
NOTE 1
For PE components intended for the conveyance of water for human consumption and raw water prior to
treatment, attention is drawn to 5.6 of this part of EN 12201. Components manufactured for water for other purposes,
drainage and sewerage may not be suitable for water supply for human consumption.

It also specifies the test parameters for the test methods referred to in this standard.
In conjunction with Parts 1, 2 ,4 and 5 of EN 12201, it is applicable to PE fittings, their joints and to joints with
components of PE and other materials intended to be used under the following conditions:
a) allowable operating pressure, PFA, up to 25 bar 1);
b) an operating temperature of 20 °C as a reference temperature;
c) buried in the ground;
d) sea outfalls;

e) laid in water;
f)

above ground, including pipes suspended below bridges.

NOTE 2
For applications operating at constant temperature greater than 20 °C and up to 40 °C, see Annex A of
EN 12201-1:2011.

EN 12201 (all parts) covers a range of allowable operating pressures and gives requirements concerning
colours and additives.
NOTE 3
It is the responsibility of the purchaser or specifier to make the appropriate selections from these aspects,
taking into account their particular requirements and any relevant national guidance or regulations and installation
practices or codes.

These fittings can be of the following types:
a)

b)

c)

1)

fusion fittings;
1)

electrofusion fittings;

2)

spigot end fittings (for butt fusion using heated tools and electrofusion socket fusion);

3)

socket fusion fittings (see Annex A);

mechanical fittings;
1)

compression fittings;

2)

flanged fittings;

fabricated fittings (see Annex B).

1 bar = 0,1 MPa = 105 Pa; 1 MPa = 1 N/mm2.

7


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

2

Normative references

!The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references,
the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies."
EN 681-1, Elastomeric seals — Materials requirements for pipe joint seals used in water and drainage
applications — Part 1: Vulcanized rubber
EN 1716, Plastics piping systems — Polyethylene (PE) tapping tees — Test method for impact resistance of
an assembled tapping tee
EN 12201-1, Plastics piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and sewerage under pressure —
Polyethylene (PE) — Part 1: General
EN 12201-2:2011, Plastics piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and sewerage under pressure —
Polyethylene (PE) — Part 2: Pipes
EN 12201-5, Plastics piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and sewerage under pressure —
Polyethylene (PE) — Part 5: Fitness for purpose of the system
CEN/TR 15438, Plastics piping systems — Guidance for coding of products and their intended uses
EN ISO 1133, Plastics — Determination of the melt mass-flow rate (MFR) and the melt volume-flow rate
(MVR) of thermoplastics (ISO 1133:2005)
EN ISO 1167-1, Thermoplastics pipes, fittings and assemblies for the conveyance of fluids — Determination
of the resistance to internal pressure — Part 1: General method (ISO 1167-1:2006)
EN ISO 1167-3, Thermoplastics pipes, fittings and assemblies for the conveyance of fluids — Determination
of the resistance to internal pressure — Part 3: Preparation of components (ISO 1167-3:2007)
EN ISO 1167-4, Thermoplastics pipes, fittings and assemblies for the conveyance of fluids — Determination
of the resistance to internal pressure — Part 4: Preparation of assemblies (ISO 1167-4:2007)
EN ISO 3126, Plastics
(ISO 3126:2005)

piping

systems

—

Plastics

components

—

Determination

of

dimensions

ISO 4059:1978, Polyethylene (PE) pipes — Pressure drop in mechanical pipe-jointing systems — Method of
test and requirements
ISO 4433-1:1997, Thermoplastics
Part 1: Immersion test method

pipes

—

Resistance

to

liquid

chemicals

—

Classification

—

ISO 4433-2:1997, Thermoplastics
Part 2: Polyolefin pipes

pipes

—

Resistance

to

liquid

chemicals

—

Classification

—

ISO 9624, Thermoplastics pipes for fluids under pressure — Mating dimensions of flange adapters and loose
backing flanges

ISO 11357-6, Plastics — Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) — Part 6: Determination of oxidation
induction time (isothermal OIT) and oxidation induction temperature (dynamic OIT)
ISO 12176-1, Plastics pipes and fittings — Equipment for fusion jointing polyethylene systems — Part 1: Butt
fusion
ISO 13950, Plastics pipes and fittings ― Automatic recognition systems for electrofusion joints

8


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

ISO 13951, Plastics piping systems ― Test method for the resistance of polyolefin pipe/pipe or pipe/fitting
assemblies to tensile loading
ISO 13953, Polyethylene (PE) pipes and fittings — Determination of the tensile strength and failure mode of
test pieces from a butt-fused joint
ISO 13954, Plastics pipes and fittings — Peel decohesion test for polyethylene (PE) electrofusion assemblies
of nominal outside diameter greater than or equal to 90 mm
ISO 13955, Plastics pipes and fittings — Crushing decohesion test for polyethylene (PE) electrofusion
assemblies
ISO 13956, Plastics pipes and fittings — Decohesion test of polyethylene (PE) saddle fusion joints —
Evaluation of ductility of fusion joint interface by tear test
ISO 14236, Plastics pipes and fittings ― Mechanical-joint compression fittings for use with polyethylene
pressure pipes in water supply systems

3

Terms and definitions, symbols and abbreviations

For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions, symbols and abbreviations given in EN 12201-1

and the following apply.
3.1
electrofusion socket fitting
polyethylene (PE) fitting which contains one or more integral heating elements that are capable of
transforming electrical energy into heat to produce a fusion joint with a spigot end or pipe
3.2
electrofusion saddle fitting
polyethylene (PE) fitting which contains one or more integral heating elements that are capable of
transforming electrical energy into heat to produce a fusion joint with the pipe
3.2.1
tapping tee
electrofusion saddle fitting (top-loading or wraparound) which contains an integral cutter used for cutting
through the wall of the main pipe, which remains in the body of the tapping tee after installation
3.2.2
branch saddle
electrofusion saddle fitting (top loading or wrap round) which requires an ancillary cutting tool for drilling the
hole in the adjoining main pipe
3.3
spigot end fitting
polyethylene (PE) fitting where the outside diameter of the spigot end is equal to the nominal outside
diameter, dn, of the corresponding pipe
3.4
mechanical fitting
fitting, that generally includes a compression part to provide pressure integrity, leaktightness and resistance to
end loads, for assembling polyethylene (PE) pipe to another PE pipe or any other element of the piping
system
NOTE 1
A pipe-supporting sleeve providing a permanent support for a polyethylene (PE) pipe to prevent creep in the
pipe wall under radial compressive forces, may be applicable. The metallic parts of the fitting can be assembled to metallic
pipes by screw-threads, compression joints, welded or flanged connections, including PE flanges. In some cases, the

supporting sleeve at the same time constitutes a grip ring.

9


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

NOTE 2

The fitting can allow either a dismountable or permanently assembled joint.

NOTE 3

The mechanical fitting can be supplied for field assembly or pre-assembled by the manufacturer.

3.5
fabricated fitting
fitting produced from pipe conforming to EN 12201-2 and/or from injection-moulded fittings in accordance with
this part of EN 12201
3.6
voltage regulation
control of energy supplied, during the fusion process of an electrofusion fitting, by means of the voltage
parameter
3.7
intensity regulation
control of energy supplied, during the fusion process of an electrofusion fitting, by means of the current
parameter

4

Material

4.1 PE compound
The PE compound from which the fittings are made shall conform to EN 12201-1.
The stress bearing parts shall only be made from virgin material conforming to EN 12201-1.

4.2 Material for non-polyethylene parts
4.2.1

General

All components shall conform to the relevant European Standard(s). Alternative standards may be utilised in
cases where suitable European Standards do not exist provided that the fitness for purpose can be
demonstrated.
The materials and constituent elements used in making the fitting (including elastomers, greases, and any
metal parts) shall be as resistant to the external and internal environments as the other elements of the piping
system and shall have a life expectancy under the following conditions at least equal to that of the PE pipe
conforming to EN 12201-2 with which they are intended to be used:
a)

during storage;

b)

under the effect of the fluids being conveyed;

c)

taking account of the service environment and operating conditions.

The requirements for the level of material performance for non-polyethylene parts shall be at least as stringent
as that of the PE compound for the piping system.
Other materials used in fittings in contact with the PE pipe shall not adversely affect the pipe performance or
initiate stress cracking.
NOTE

10

Subclause 4.2 does not apply to non-stress bearing fitting parts.


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

4.2.2

Metal parts

All metal parts susceptible to corrosion shall be adequately protected, provided this is necessary for durability
and function of the system.
When dissimilar metallic parts are used, which can be in contact with moisture, steps shall be taken to avoid
the possibility of galvanic corrosion.
4.2.3

Elastomers

Elastomeric materials used for the manufacture of seals shall conform to EN 681-1.
4.2.4

Other materials

Greases or lubricants shall not exude on to the fusion areas, and shall not affect the long-term performance of
the fitting nor have any adverse effect on the quality of the water.

5

General characteristics

5.1 Appearance
When viewed without magnification, the internal and external surfaces of the fitting shall be smooth, clean and
free from scoring, cavities and other surface defects to an extent that would prevent conformity of the fitting to
this standard.
No component of the fitting shall show any signs of damage, scratches, pitting, bubbles, blisters, inclusions or
cracks to an extent that would prevent conformity of the fittings to the requirements of this standard.

5.2 Design
The design of the fitting shall be such that, when assembling the fitting onto the pipe or other components, the
electrical coils and/or seals are not displaced.

5.3 Colour
The fitting shall be black or blue. For fabricated fittings the colour characteristics of pipes according to
EN 12201-2 applies.
NOTE

For above ground installations, all blue components should be protected from direct UV light.

5.4 Electrical characteristics for electrofusion fittings
The electrical protection that shall be provided by the system depends on the voltage and the current intensity
used and on the characteristics of the electrical power source.

For voltages greater than 25 V, direct human contact with the energised parts shall not be possible when the
fitting is in the fusion cycle during assembly in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer of the
fittings and the assembly equipment, as applicable.
NOTE 1
This type of fitting is a part of an electrical system as defined in EN 60335-1 [3], IEC 60364-1 [5] and
IEC 60449 [6]. A protection against direct contacts with active parts (live conductors) is required for conformity to
EN 60529 [4]. This protection is a function of the work site conditions.
NOTE 2

See Annex C for examples of typical electrofusion terminal connectors.

11


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

The tolerance on the electrical resistance of the fitting at 23 °C shall be stated by the manufacturer. The
resistance shall be in between nominal resistance (–10%) and nominal resistance (+10% ) + 0,1 Ω.
NOTE 3

0,1 Ω is the assumed value of the contact resistance.

The surface finish of the terminal pins shall allow a minimum contact resistance in order to satisfy the
resistance tolerance requirements.

5.5 Appearance of factory made joints
The internal and external surfaces of the pipe and fitting after fusion jointing, examined visually without
magnification, shall be free from melt exudation outside the confines of the fitting, apart from that which may
be declared acceptable by the fitting manufacturer or used as a fusion marker.

Any melt exudation shall not cause wire movement in electrofusion fittings such that it leads to short-circuiting,
when jointed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. There shall be no excessive creasing of the
internal surfaces of the adjoining pipes.

5.6 Effect on water quality
For fittings intended for the conveyance of water for human consumption attention is drawn to the
requirements of national regulations (see Introduction).

6

Geometrical characteristics

6.1 Measurement of dimensions
The dimensions of the fittings shall be measured in accordance with EN ISO 3126. In the case of dispute the
measurement of dimensions shall not be made less than 24 h after manufacture after being conditioned for at
least 4 h at (23 ± 2) °C.
NOTE
Indirect measurement at the stage of production is allowed at shorter time periods providing evidence is
shown of correlation.

6.2 Dimensions of electrofusion socket fittings
6.2.1

Diameters and lengths of electrofusion sockets

When measured in accordance with 6.1, the diameters and lengths of electrofusion sockets (see Figure 1)
shall conform to Table 1.

12

BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

Key

D1
D2
L1
L2
L3

is the "mean inside diameter in the fusion zone" measured in a plane parallel to the plane of the mouth at a
distance of L3 + 0,5L2;
is the bore which is the minimum diameter of the flow channel through the body of the fitting where
D2 ≥ (dn − 2emin);
is the "design penetration depth" of the pipe or male end of a spigot fitting; in the case of a coupling without a stop,
it is not greater than half the total length of the fitting;
is the heated length within a socket as declared by the manufacturer to be the nominal length of the fusion zone;
is the distance between the mouth of the fitting and the start of the fusion zone as declared by the manufacturer to
be the nominal unheated entrance length of the fitting L3 shall be ≥ 5 mm.

Figure 1 — Dimensions of electrofusion sockets

13


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

Table 1 — Electrofusion socket dimensions
Dimensions in millimetres

Nominal diameter
of the fitting

Design depth

dn

L1,min

Fusion zone

L1,max

L2,min

Intensity regulation

Voltage regulation

20
25
32
40

20
20
20

20

25
25
25
25

41
41
44
49

10
10
10
10

50
63
75
90

20
23
25
28

28
31
35

40

55
63
70
79

10
11
12
13

110
125
140
160

32
35
38
42

53
58
62
68

82
87
92

98

15
16
18
20

180
200
225
250

46
50
55
73

74
80
88
95

105
112
120
129

21
23
26

33

280
315
355
400

81
89
99
110

104
115
127
140

139
150
164
179

35
39
42
47

450
500
560

630

122
135
147
161

155
170
188
209

195
212
235
255

51
56
61
67

710
800

177
193

220
230

280
300

74
82

The mean inside diameter of the fitting in the middle of the fusion zone, Dl, shall not be less than dn.
The manufacturer shall declare maximum and minimum values of Dl to allow end user to determine their
suitability for clamping and joint assembly and fitness for purpose testing in accordance with EN 12201-5.
In the case of a fitting having sockets of differing sizes, each one shall conform to the requirements for the
corresponding nominal diameter.
6.2.2

Wall thicknesses

In order to prevent stress concentrations, any changes in wall thickness of the fitting body shall be gradual.
a)

14

The wall thickness of the body of the fitting at any point, E, shall be greater than or equal to emin for the
corresponding pipe at any part of the fitting located at a distance beyond a maximum of 2L1/3 from all


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

entrance faces if the fitting and the corresponding pipe are made from a polyethylene having the same
MRS.

If the fitting is produced from a polyethylene having an MRS that is different from that of the
corresponding pipe, the relationship between the wall thickness of the fitting, E, and the pipe, emin, shall
be in accordance with Table 2
Table 2 — Relationship between pipe and fitting wall thicknesses
Material

b)

Relationship between fitting wall
thickness, E, and pipe wall thickness, emin

Pipe

Fitting

PE 80

PE 100

E ≥ 0,8 emin

PE 100

PE 80

E ≥ 1,25 emin

In the case of a wall thickness design different from that according to a), fittings and associated fusion
joints shall additionally meet the performance requirements given in 7.6.

6.2.3

Out-of-roundness of the bore of a fitting (at any point)

When a fitting leaves the site of the manufacturer, the out-of-roundness of the bore of a fitting at any point
shall not exceed 0,015 dn.

6.3 Dimensions of spigot end fittings
When measured in accordance with 6.1, the spigot dimensions shall conform to the requirements given in
Table 3 (see Figure 2).

15


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

Key

D1
D2
E
E1
L1
L2
a
b
c
d

e
f

mean outside diameter of fusion end piece a
minimum bore which comprises the minimum diameter of the flow channel through the body of the fitting
body wall thickness of fitting c
fusion face wall thickness d
cut-back length of fusion end piece e
tubular length of fusion end piece f

D1 is measured in any plane parallel to the plane of the entrance face at a distance not greater than L2 (tubular length)
from the plane of the entrance face.
This diameter does not include the fusion bead, if any.
It comprises the thickness measured at any point of the wall of the fitting.
It is measured at any point at a maximum distance of L1 (cut back length) from the entrance face and shall be equal to
the pipe wall thickness and tolerance to which it is intended to be butt fused, as specified in EN 12201-2:2011,
Table 2. E1 for small dimensions is at least 3 mm.
It comprises the initial depth of the spigot end necessary for butt fusion or re-weld and may be obtained by joining a
length of pipe to the spigot end of the fitting provided the wall thickness of the pipe is equal to E1 for its entire length.
It comprises the initial length of the fusion end piece and shall allow the following (in any combination): the use of
clamps required in the case of butt fusion; assembly with an electrofusion fitting; assembly with a socket fusion fitting;
the use of a mechanical scraper.
Figure 2 — Dimensions of spigot end fittings

The wall thickness of the fusion end, E1, shall be at least equal to the minimum wall thickness of the pipe,
except between the plane of the entrance face and a plane parallel to it, located at a distance not greater than
(0,01de + 1 mm), where a thickness reduction for e.g. a chamfered edge is permitted.

16

BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

Table 3 — Spigot dimensions
Dimensions in millimetres
Nominal
outside
diameter
of spigot

dn

Mean outside diameter of the
a
fusion end

For electrofusion and butt fusion

Grade A

Grade B

Out-ofroundness

Min.
bore

Cut back Tubularb
length

length

For butt fusion only

Socket
fusion

Tubular
Out-of- Cut back
length roundness length

Tubular
length
c
Normal

Tubular
length
d
Special

L2,min

L2,min

D1,min

D1,max

D1,max

max.

D2

L1,min

L2,min

L2,min

max.

L1,min

20
25
32
40

20,0
25,0
32,0
40,0

—
—
—
—

20,3
25,3
32,3
40,4

0,3
0,4
0,5
0,6

13
18
25
31

25
25
25
25

41
41
44
49

11
12,5
14,6
17

—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—

50
63
75
90

50,0
63,0
75,0
90,0

—
—
—
—

50,4
63,4
75,5
90,6

0,8
0,9
1,2
1,4

39
49
59
71

25
25
25
28

55
63
70
79

20
24
25
28

—
1,5
1,6
1,8

—
5
6
6

—
16
19
22

—
5
6
6

110
125
140
160

110,0
125,0
140,0
160,0

—
—
—
—

110,7
125,8
140,9
161,0

1,7
1,9
2,1
2,4

87
99
111
127

32
35
38
42

82
87
92
98

32
35
—
—

2,2
2,5
2,8
3,2

8
8
8
8

28
32
35
40

8
8
8
8

180
200
225
250

180,0
200,0
225,0
250,0

—
—
—
—

181,1
201,2
226,4
251,5

2,7
3,0
3,4
3,8

143
159
179
199

46
50
55
60

105
112
120
129

—
—
—
—

3,6
4,0
4,5
5,0

8
8
10
10

45
50
55
60

8
8
10
10

280
315
355
400

280,0
315,0
355,0
400,0

282,6
317,9
358,2
403,6

281,7
316,9
357,2
402,4

4,2
4,8
5,4
6,0

223
251
283
319

75
75
75
75

139
150
164
179

—
—
—
—

9,8
11,1
12,5
14,0

10
10
10
10

70
80
90
95

10
10
12
12

450
500
560
630

450,0
500,0
560,0
630,0

454,1
504,5
565,0
635,7

452,7
503,0
563,4
633,8

6,8
7,5
8,4
9,5

359
399
447
503

100
100
100
100

195
212
235
255

—
—
—
—

15,6
17,5
19,6
22,1

15
20
20
20

60
60
60
60

15
15
15
20

710
800

710,0
800,0

716,4
807,2

714,9
805,0

10,6
12,0

280
280

—
—

24,8
28,0

20
20

60
60

20
20

567
125
639
125
a
Tolerance grades A and B are in accordance with ISO 11922-1:1997 [8].
b
The values of L2 (electrofusion) are based on the following equations:
for dn ≤ 90, L2 = 0,6dn + 25 mm;
for dn ≥ 110, L2 = dn/3 + 45 mm.
c
Used by preference.

d
Used for fittings fabricated in the factory.

6.4 Dimensions of socket fusion fittings
For the description and dimensions of these types of fittings, see Annex A.

6.5 Dimensions of electrofusion saddle fittings
Outlets from tapping tees and branch saddles shall have spigots in accordance with 6.3 or an electrofusion
socket in accordance with 6.2. The manufacturer shall specify the overall characteristic dimension of the fitting
in the technical file. These dimensions shall include the maximum height of the saddle, H, and the height of
the service pipe measured from the top of the main, h, as shown in Figure 3.
NOTE
For technical and design reasons the minimum bore diameter D2 may be different from the one of spigot
fittings as given in 6.3.

17


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

Key

H
h
L

is the height of the saddle, i.e. the distance from the top of the main to the top of the tapping tee;
is the "height of service pipe", i.e. the distance between the top of the main pipe and the axis of the service pipe;
is the "width of the tapping tee", i.e. the distance between the axis of the pipe and the plane of the mouth of the

service tee.

Figure 3 — Dimensions of electrofusion saddle fittings

6.6 Dimensions of mechanical fittings
Mechanical fittings manufactured substantially from PE and intended for part fusion to PE pipe and part
mechanical jointing to other pipe components, e.g. adapters, shall in at least one joint conform to the
geometrical characteristics of the PE jointing system to be used.
NOTE
Mechanical fittings not manufactured substantially from PE should conform to the requirements specified in
the relevant standard(s).

6.7 Dimensions of loose backing flanges and flange adapters
Dimensions of loose backing flanges and flange adapters shall be in accordance with ISO 9624.

6.8 Dimensions of fabricated fittings
When the description and dimensions of fittings of this type are required, Annex B applies.

7

Mechanical characteristics

7.1 General
A fitting shall be tested and assembled with pipe or as a part of an assembly of more than one fitting fused to
pipe conforming to EN 12201-2.
Each assembly shall be prepared from components (pipes and fittings) of the same pressure class and
material classification.

18

BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

7.2 Conditioning
Unless otherwise specified by the applicable test method, the test pieces shall be conditioned at (23 ± 2) °C
before testing in accordance with Table 4.

7.3 Requirements
When tested in accordance with the test methods as specified in Table 4 using the parameters given in
Table 4, the fitting shall have mechanical characteristics conforming to the requirements given in Table 4.
Mechanical fittings shall be in accordance with ISO 14236 or the relevant standard for diameters above dn
160.

19


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

Table 4 — Mechanical characteristics
Characteristics

Requirements

Hydrostatic strength
at 20 °C

No failure during
test period of any

test pieces

Test parameters
Parameters

No failure during
test period of any
test pieces

No failure during
test period of any
test pieces

b

Type A EN ISO 11671
Shall conform to
EN ISO 1167-1
3
Water- in- water
20 °C
100 h

Test method
EN ISO 1167-1
and
EN ISO 1167-4

10,0 MPa
12,0 MPa

a

End caps
Conditioning period
Number of test pieces
Type of test
Test temperature
Test period
Circumferential (hoop)
c
stress for: PE 80
PE 100

Hydrostatic strength
at 80 °C

a

End caps
Conditioning period
Number of test pieces
Type of test
Test temperature
Test period
Circumferential (hoop)
c
stress for: PE 80
PE 100

Hydrostatic strength

at 80 °C

Value

b

End caps
Conditioning period
Type of test
Test temperature
b
Number of test pieces
Test period
Circumferential (hoop)
c
stress for: PE 80
PE 100

Type A
Shall conform to
EN ISO 1167-1
3
Water-in-water
80 °C
d
165 h

EN ISO 1167-1
and
EN ISO 1167-4

4,5 MPa
5,4 MPa
a

Type A
Shall conform to
EN ISO 1167-1
Water-in-water
80 °C
3
1000 h

EN ISO 1167-1
and
EN ISO 1167-4

4,0 MPa
5,0 MPa

Decohesive
resistance for
electrofusion socket
fittings

Length of initiation
rupture ≤ L2/3 in
brittle failure

Test temperature

b
Number of test pieces

23 °C
Shall conform to
ISO 13954
or ISO 13955

ISO 13954
ISO 13955

Cohesive strength
of electrofusion
saddle fittings

Ld < 50% and
Ad ≤ 25 %, brittle
failure

Test temperature
b
Number of test pieces

23 °C
Shall conform to
ISO 13956

ISO 13956

Tensile strength for

butt fusion fittings spigoted fittings

Test to failure:
− ductile: pass
− brittle: fail

Test temperature
b
Number of test pieces

23 °C
Shall conform to
ISO 13953

ISO 13953

Impact resistance of
tapping tees

No failure, no
leaks

Test temperature
Mass of striker
Height
Conditioning period:
in air
in liquid

(0 ± 2) °C

(2 500 ± 20) g
(2 000 ± 10) mm

EN 1716

a
b

c
d

4h
2h

Type B end caps may be used for batch release tests for diameters ≥ 500 mm.
The number of test pieces given indicate the quantity required to establish a value for the characteristic described in the table. The
number of test pieces required for factory production control and process control should be listed in the manufacturer’s quality plan
(for guidance see CEN/TS 12201-7 [2]).
!The test pressure shall be calculated using the design SDR of the fitting."
Premature ductile failures are not taken into account. For retest procedure see 7.4.

20


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012
EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

7.4 Retest in case of failure at 80 °C
A fracture in a brittle mode in less than 165 h shall constitute a failure. However, if a sample in the 165 h test
fails in a ductile mode in less than 165 h, a retest shall be performed at a selected lower stress in order to

achieve the minimum required time for the selected stress obtained from the line through the stress/time
points given in Table 5.
Table 5 — Test parameters for the retest of the hydrostatic strength at 80 °C
PE 80

PE 100

Stress

Test period

Stress

Test period

MPa

h

MPa

h

4,5
4,4
4,3
4,2
4,1
4,0

165
233
331
474
685
1 000

5,4
5,3
5,2
5,1
5,0

165
256
399
629
1 000

7.5 Pressure drop
If required, the manufacturer shall declare the pressure drop of a fitting for sizes up to 63 when determined in
accordance with ISO 4059:1978.

7.6 Performance requirements
When 6.2.2 b) applies, electrofusion socket fittings shall also be in accordance with Table 6.
Table 6 ― Performance requirements
Characteristics

Requirement

Test parameters
Parameter

Short-term
internal pressure
resistance

Resistance to
tensile load

Value

Failure pressure shall
be greater than
pressure equivalent
of 2 × MRS calculated
for thickest-walled
pipe for which fitting
has been designed.

End caps
Orientation
Conditioning time
Type of test
Minimum pressure:
PE 80 pipe, SDR 11
PE 100 pipe, SDR 11
Pressure increase rate
Test temperature

Type A of EN ISO 1167-1
Free
12 h
Water-in-water

No leakage or failure
of the fusion joint
after 25% elongation
of the pipe

Test temperature

23 °C

Test
method
Annex D

32 bar
40 bar
5 bar/min
20 °C
Annex E

1 bar = 0,1 MPa = 105 Pa; 1 MPa = 1 N/mm2

21


BS EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012

EN 12201-3:2011+A1:2012 (E)

8

Physical characteristics

8.1 Conditioning
Unless otherwise specified by the applicable test method, the test pieces shall be conditioned at (23 ± 2) °C
before testing in accordance with Table 7.

8.2 Requirements
When tested in accordance with the test methods as specified in Table 7 using the indicated parameters, the
fittings shall have physical characteristics conforming to the requirements given in Table 7.
Table 7 — Physical characteristics
Characteristics

Test parameters

Requirements

Parameters

Value

Test method

Melt mass-flow
rate (MFR) for PE
80, and PE 100

Change of MFR by
b
processing ± 20 %

Load
Test temperature
Test period
a
Number of test pieces

5 kg
190 °C
10 min
Shall conform to
EN ISO 1133

EN ISO1133

Oxidation
induction time

≥ 20 min

Test temperature
Test environment
Specimen weight
a
Number of test pieces

200 °C

Oxygen
(15 ±2) mg
3

c

ISO 11357-6

Effect on water
d
quality

National regulations apply

a

The number of test pieces given indicate the quantity required to establish a value for the characteristic described in the table.
The number of test pieces required for factory production control and process control should be listed in the manufacturer’s
quality plan; for guidance see CEN/TS 12201-7 [2].
b
Value as measured on the fitting relative to the value measured on the compound used.
c
Test may be carried out as an indirect test at 210 °C or 220 °C providing that there is clear correlation of the results to those at
200 °C: in cases of dispute the reference temperature shall be 200 °C.
d
Test methods, parameters and requirements for all properties are under preparation. Until these European Standards are
published National Regulations apply (see Introduction).

9

Chemical resistance of fittings in contact with chemicals

If for a particular installation it is necessary to evaluate the chemical resistance of fittings, then the fitting shall
be classified in accordance with ISO 4433-1:1997 and ISO 4433-2:1997.
NOTE

Guidance for the resistance of polyethylene fittings against chemicals is given in ISO/TR 10358 [7].

10 Performance requirements
When fittings conforming to this standard are assembled to each other or to components conforming to other
Parts of this European Standard, the joints shall conform to the requirements given in EN 12201-5.

22