What is BS EN 12201-4 – PE valves for plastic piping systems about?
BS EN 12201 is a European Standard, known as the System Standard, that specifies the requirements for a piping system and its components when made from polyethylene (PE).
BS EN 12201-4 is the fourth part of the series that specifies the characteristics of valves or valve bodies made from PE 100 and PE 80 for buried and above ground applications, 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.
BS EN 12201-4 also specifies the test parameters for the test methods referred to in this European Standard.
In conjunction with Parts 1, 2, 3 and 5 of EN 12201, BS EN 12201-4 is applicable to PE valves, their joints and to joints with components of PE and other materials intended to be used under the following conditions:
- Allowable operating pressure, PFA, up to 25 bar
- An operating temperature of 20 °C as a reference temperature
- Buried in the ground
- Sea outfalls
- Laid in water
- Above ground, including pipes suspended below bridges
Note: Valves made from material other than polyethylene (PE) designed for the supply of water intended for human consumption to a relevant standard(s) can be used in PE piping systems conforming to EN 12201 when they have relevant PE connection for butt fusion or electrofusion ends.
Who is BS EN 12201-4 - PE valves for plastic piping systems for?
BS EN 12201-4 on PE valves is relevant to:
- PE valve manufacturers
- Plastic piping system component manufacturers
- Product design engineers
- Quality control and testing personnel
- Contractors
- Civil engineers
- Local authorities
Why should you use BS EN 12201-4 - PE valves for plastic piping systems?
Water valves regulate the flow and temperature in pipes and plumbing fixtures. When they are installed and operated properly, the valves can efficiently control constant flow and volume. In this regard, PE is a widely chosen material for components in plastic piping systems that exhibit properties of corrosion resistance and durability.
BS EN 12201-4 provides best industry guidance on the material, design, geometric characteristics, mechanical characteristics for assembled valves and physical characteristics, along with performance requirements, marking and delivery conditions of the valves.
Moreover, the test method to determine the leaktightness of seal and packing of a valve/valve bodies made from PE, is also covered in BS EN 12201-4.
If you are a manufacturer of PE valves used for plastic piping systems, complying with BS EN 12201-4 can help demonstrate the performance and reliability of your product, ensuring that they are fit for purpose.
As a result, you can ensure that the PE valves play a positive role in maintaining overall integrity of plastic piping systems, thus avoiding incidents of leakages and product failures.