Standardization News

A proposed ASTM standard will provide best practices for companies that coat pipe with porcelain enamel (glass) lining. Such linings have been used in municipal wastewater, sewage treatment and other water-related industries since the 1960s. Subcommittee B08.12 on Materials for Porcelain Enamel and Ceramic-Metal Systems is developing the standard.

Porcelain enamel lining acts as a deterrent to interior clogging in piping because of its hardness and improved flow characteristics, according to ASTM member Charles Baldwin.

"Porcelain enamel lining applied to the internal surfaces of ductile iron pipe, steel pipe, fittings and valves has been successfully used for more than 50 years," says Baldwin. Porcelain-lined pipes help to minimize maintenance operations and costs, while protecting metal pipe interiors from corrosion.

The proposed standard (WK49160, Practice for Casting Preparation and Test Procedure of Porcelain Enamel Lined Pipe, Fittings and Valves for Use in the Municipal Wastewater, Sewage and Water Treatment Industry) will be used by specifiers, designers, consulting engineers and municipalities. For example, it will serve as a quality control guide in developing project specifications, and can be used by manufacturers who make products to meet the specifications.

"Using the proposed standard, once it is approved, will assure that sound, proven manufacturing processes and final quality control procedures are undertaken by all participating manufacturers of the product, ensuring the continued effectiveness and longevity of porcelain enamel-lined pipe," says Baldwin.

CONTACT Technical Information: Charles Baldwin, Ferro Corp. • tel +1.216.875.6204 | ASTM Staff: Diane Lake • tel +1.610.832.9661 | Upcoming Meeting: Nov. 18-19 • November Committee Week • Tampa, Fla.