1.1This specification covers crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) pipe that is outside diameter controlled in metric pipe sizes 16 mm to 1000 mm and inch pipe sizes 3 in. to 54 in., made in nominal pipe dimension ratios, and pressure rated for water at three temperatures (see Appendix X1). Included are requirements and test methods for material, workmanship, dimensions, burst pressure, hydrostatic sustained pressure, excessive temperature-pressure, environmental stress cracking, stabilizer functionality, bent-pipe hydrostatic pressure, oxidative stability in potable chlorinated water, degree of crosslinking, and minimum operating temperature. Requirements for pipe markings are also given. The pipe covered by this specification is intended for pressure piping applications, such as, industrial and general-purpose pipelines, potable water pipelines, and fire–extinguishing pipelines.

1.2The text of this specification references notes, footnotes, and appendixes, which provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes (excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered as requirements of the specification.

1.3The values stated in either SI units or inch-pound units are to be regarded separately as standard. The values stated in each system may not be exact equivalents; therefore, each system shall be used independently of the other. Combining values from the two systems may result in non-conformance with the standard.

1.4This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.