What is BS EN 1555‑4 about?
BS EN 1555‑4 discusses the characteristics of valves made from polyethene (PE) for piping systems designed for the supply of gaseous fuels. BS EN 1555‑4 is applicable to isolating unidirectional and bi-directional valves with spigot ends or electrofusion sockets intended to be fused with PE pipes or fittings.
BS EN 1555‑4 covers valve bodies designed for connection with pipes with a nominal outside diameter dn ≤ 400 mm. BS EN 1555‑4 covers the characteristics of these valves.
Note: It’s the responsibility of the purchaser or specifier to make the appropriate selections from these aspects, considering their requirements and any relevant national regulations and installation practices or codes.
Who is BS EN 1555‑4 for?
BS EN 1555‑4 on Plastics piping systems for the supply of gaseous fuels (valves) is useful for:
- Valve manufacturers
- PE pipes and fittings manufacturers
- Refineries
- Pipe Retailers
- Gaseous fuels suppliers
Why should you use BS EN 1555‑4?
Polyethylene (PE) valves are important components of gaseous fuel supply systems. They help you regulate the gas inflow and outflow. An error in dimensions or installation of valves in a gas supply line can be harmful.
BS EN 1555‑4 provides you with the requirements for a piping system and valves made from polyethene (PE) which are intended to be used for the supply of gaseous fuels. BS EN 1555‑4 will guide you through the complete process of designing a polyethylene valve and the necessary tests to check their performance level; which will help you pass all the necessary quality checks.
What’s changed since the last update?
BS EN 1555‑4:2021 supersedes BS EN 1555‑4:2011, which is withdrawn. Significant changes between BS EN 1555‑4:2021 and BS EN 1555‑4:2011 include:
- PE 100-RC type materials with enhanced resistance to slow crack growth have been added
- Annex A in EN 1555-1:2021 now discusses the performance of this type of material and gives additional information for non-conventional installation techniques
- The diameter range for valves has been increased to 400 mm and an improved description of the leak-tightness test is given
- Annex B has been added to describe the leak-tightness test after the tensile test, following the withdrawal of ISO 10933
- Test methods have been updated and a new method has been added for PE 100-RC materials

