Standardization News

A new ASTM International specification fills a need for a standard covering strong plastic piping systems that can be used in the harsh environment of underground mine leachate systems.

F2986, Specification for Corrugated Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings for Mine Leachate Applications, was developed by Subcommittee F17.65 on Land Drainage, part of ASTM International Committee F17 on Plastic Piping Systems.

"F2986 was developed because an entire market segment, mine leachate applications, was not being served by any specific engineered pipe product," says John Kurdziel, director of technical services and market development, Advanced Drainage Systems. According to Kurdziel, who is secretary of F17.65, most of the pipe being used in leachate applications was storm, sanitary or agricultural drainage pipe, none of which addresses the severe environmental conditions and load requirements that exist at mines.

The leachate pipe described in F2986 is designed for deep underground use under harsh chemical exposure from corrosive acid or alkaline effluent. The pipe is primarily used to collect or convey ore leachate to a facility for processing and extraction of the desired mineral or metal, such as gold, silver and copper. The use of pipe as specified in F2986 will prevent premature deterioration of leachate systems in large mine operations.

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CONTACT Technical Information: John Kurdziel, Advanced Drainage Systems Inc. • Hilliard, Ohio • Phone: 614-658-0211 | ASTM Staff: Robert Morgan • Phone: 610-832-9732 | Upcoming Meeting: April 15-17, 2013 • April Committee Week • Indianapolis, Ind.