These Pipes Have Passed

Abstract

This article discusses need for introducing new standards for developing efficient piping systems. A barrier to wider adoption of the material has been the absence of non-metallic piping standards that could serve as a common language for manufacturers, fabricators, designers, and other stakeholders. The development of the new standards also reflects the growing international role of ASME standards. The intent of ASME NM-1 is to set engineering requirements for safe design and construction of thermoplastic piping installations. The ASMI NM-2 is expected to address pipe and piping components which are produced as standard products, as well as custom products designed for specific applications. The ASME NM-3 Standard intends to provide greater uniformity, consistency, and transparency for the identification and establishment of physical properties and allowable stress values for materials in non-metallic piping systems. The standards for thermoplastic and fiberglass reinforced plastic piping systems are being developed to fill the unmet need for comprehensive documents in these areas.