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An American National Standard

Designation: D2855 – 96 (Reapproved 2002)

Standard Practice for


Making Solvent-Cemented Joints with Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
(PVC) Pipe and Fittings1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2855; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the Department of Defense.

1. Scope D1784 Specification for Rigid Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC)


1.1 This practice describes a procedure for making joints Compounds and Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
with poly(vinyl chloride) plastic (PVC) pipes, both plain ends (CPVC) Compounds 4
and fittings, and bell ends, by means of solvent cements. These D2564 Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly(Vinyl
procedures are general ones for PVC piping. In non-pressure Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Piping Systems 4
applications, simplified procedures may be used. Manufactur- F402 Practice for Safe Handling of Solvent Cements, Prim-
ers should supply specific instructions for their particular ers, and Cleaners Used for Joining Thermoplastic Pipe and
products, if and when it seems necessary. Fittings 4
1.2 The techniques covered are applicable only to PVC F412 Terminology Relating to Plastic Piping Systems 4
pipe, both plain and bell-end, and fittings of the same classes as F656 Specification for Primers for Use in Solvent Cement
described in Specification D1784. Joints of Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe and
1.3 Pipe and fittings are manufactured within certain toler- Fittings
ances to provide for the small variations in the extrusion, 3. Terminology
belling, and molding processes and are not to exact size. A
partial list of standards for PVC pipe, fittings, and cements 3.1 Definitions—Definitions are in accordance with Termi-
suitable for use in making solvent-cemented joints is given in nology F412, and abbreviations are in accordance with Termi-
Appendix X1. nology D1600, unless otherwise specified.
1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded 4. Summary of Practice
as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for
information only. 4.1 To consistently make good joints, the following should
1.5 The text of this practice references notes and footnotes be clearly understood and adhered to:
that provide explanatory material. These notes and footnotes 4.1.1 The joining surfaces must be softened (dissolved) and
(excluding those in tables and figures) shall not be considered made semi-fluid.
as requirements of the practice. 4.1.2 Sufficient cement must be applied to fill the gap
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the between pipe and fitting.
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the 4.1.3 Assembly of pipe and fittings must be made while the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- surfaces are still wet and fluid.
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- 4.1.4 Joint strength develops as the cement dries. In the tight
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. part of the joint the surfaces will tend to fuse together; in the
loose part the cement will bond to both surfaces.
2. Referenced Documents 4.2 Penetration and dissolving can be achieved by the
2.1 ASTM Standards: 2 cement itself, by a suitable primer, or by the use of both primer
D740 Specification for Methyl Ethyl Ketone 3 and cement. A suitable primer will penetrate and dissolve the
D1600 Terminology for Abbreviated Terms Relating to plastic more quickly than cement alone. In cold weather, more
Plastics 3 time and additional applications are required (see Fig. 1).
4.3 More than sufficient cement to fill the loose part of the
joint must be applied (see Fig. 2). Besides filling the gap,
1
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F17 on Plastic adequate cement layers will penetrate the surfaces and also
Piping Systems and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F17.20 on Joining.
Current edition approved March 10, 1996. Published May 1996. Originally remain wet until the joint is assembled.
published as D2855 – 70. Last previous edition D2855 – 93. DOI: 10.1520/D2855-
96R02.
2
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 06.04.
3 4
Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 08.01. Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Vol 08.04.

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

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D2855 – 96 (2002)

FIG. 1 Areas of Pipe and Fittings to Be Softened (Dissolved) and


Penetrated
FIG. 4 Bonded and Fused Surfaces of Joined Pipe

good quality joint. This skill and knowledge can be obtained by


making joints under the guidance of skilled operators and
testing them until good quality joints are obtained.

6. Materials
6.1 Pipe and Fittings—The pipe and fittings should meet
the requirements of current applicable PVC piping standards. A
list of these standards is given in Appendix X1.
FIG. 2 Cement Coatings of Sufficient Thickness 6.2 Solvent Cement:
6.2.1 Specification—The solvent cement should meet all the
requirements of Specification D2564.
4.4 If the cement coatings on the pipe and fittings are wet 6.2.2 Selection—PVC solvent cements are available in a
and fluid when assembly takes place, they will tend to flow variety of viscosities and wet film thicknesses to cover the
together and become one cement layer. Also, if the cement is range of pipe sizes from 1⁄8 to 12 in. and for interference-fit
wet the surfaces beneath them will still be soft, and these joints as well as noninterference joints, as found in some
dissolved surfaces in the tight part of the joint will tend to fuse Schedule 80 pipe and fittings. One of the general principles of
together (see Fig. 3). solvent cementing that should be strictly adhered to is: suffi-
4.5 As the solvent dissipates, the cement layer and the cient cement must be applied to fill the gap between pipe and
dissolved surfaces will harden with a corresponding increase in fitting.
joint strength. A good joint will take the required working 6.2.2.1 The ability of a solvent cement to fill a gap in a pipe
pressure long before the joint is fully dry and final strength is joint can be determined by considering its viscosity and
obtained. In the tight (fused) part of the joint, strength will wet-film thickness (see Note X3.1). A guide to the proper
develop more quickly than in the looser (bonded) part of the selection of a solvent cement for the various pipe sizes is given
joint. Completed joints should not be disturbed until they have in Table X3.1 and Table X3.2, where PVC solvent cements are
cured sufficiently to withstand handling. Joint strength devel- classified (for purposes of identification) as regular-bodied,
ops as the cement dries. Information about the development of medium-bodied, and heavy-bodied cement based on minimum
bond strength of solvent cemented joints is available (see Fig. viscosity and minimum wet-film thickness.
4). 6.2.3 Storage—PVC solvent cements should be stored in a
cool place except when actually in use at the job site. These
5. Significance and Use
cements have a limited shelf life when not stored in hermeti-
5.1 The techniques described herein can be used to produce cally sealed containers. Screw top containers are not consid-
strong pressure-tight joints between PVC pipe and fittings, ered to be hermetically sealed. Consult the cement manufac-
either in shop operations or in the field. However, skill and turer for specific storage recommendations on storage
knowledge on the part of the operator are required to obtain a conditions and shelf life. The cement is unsuitable for use on
the job if it exhibits an appreciable change from the original
viscosity, or if a sign of gelation is apparent. Restoration of the
original viscosity or removal of gelation by adding solvents or
thinners is not recommended.
6.3 Cleaners—Cleaners are of two types, chemical and
mechanical (abrasives). Cleaners are used to remove surface
impurities (oil, dirt, etc.) and surface gloss.
6.3.1 Chemical Cleaners—The chemical cleaners are as
follows:
6.3.1.1 Cleaner recommended by the pipe, fittings, or ce-
FIG. 3 Assembly of Surfaces While They Are Wet and Soft ment manufacturer, and

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D2855 – 96 (2002)
6.3.1.2 Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) in accordance with should be snug. If the fit is loose or wobbly, other fittings or
Specification D740. pipe should be selected which give a proper fit.
6.3.2 Mechanical Cleaners—The mechanical cleaners are 7.4 Cleaning—Surfaces to be joined must be cleaned and be
as follows: free of dirt, moisture, oil, and other foreign material (see Fig.
6.3.2.1 Fine abrasive paper or cloth (180 grit or finer), and 8). If this cannot be accomplished by wiping with a clean dry
6.3.2.2 Clean, oil-free steel wool. cloth, a chemical or mechanical cleaner must be used. If a
6.4 Primers—Primers are used to clean, soften, and dissolve chemical cleaner is used, apply with an applicator. Skin contact
the joining surfaces in order to better prepare them for solvent with chemical cleaners should be avoided.
cementing. Primers must be capable of dissolving 10 weight % 7.5 Application Procedure:
of PVC resin as required in Specification F656. Primers may 7.5.1 Handling Cement—Keep the cement can closed and
also be used as cleaners; refer to specific recommendations of in a shady place when not actually in use. Discard the cement
the manufacturer. when an appreciable change in viscosity takes place, or at the
NOTE 1—In the event of conflicting instructions from the pipe, fittings,
first sign of gelation. The cement should not be thinned. Keep
or cement manufacturer, use a primer as well as solvent cement in the the brush immersed in cement between applications.
joining procedure. NOTE 2—A gel condition is indicated when the cement does not flow
6.4.1 Primer Specification—The primer shall meet the re- freely from the brush or when the cement appears lumpy and stringy.
quirements of Specification F656. 7.5.2 Applicator Size—Apply the cement with a natural
bristle, nylon brush or suitable applicator, using a 1⁄2-in.
7. Procedure (12-mm) brush or dauber for nominal pipe size 1⁄2-in. and less,
7.1 Cutting the Pipe—Cut pipe square with the axis, using a 1-in. (25-mm) brush or dauber for pipe up through 2-in.
a fine-tooth hand saw and a miter box, or a fine-tooth power nominal pipe size, and a brush width at least 1⁄2 of nominal pipe
saw with a suitable guide (see Fig. 5). Wood-working blades size for sizes above 2 in., except that for pipe sizes 6 in. and
may be used. A rotary cutter may be used if the cutting blades larger a 21⁄2-in. (60-mm) brush is adequate. Other applicators
are specifically designed for cutting plastic pipe in such a way may be used provided their use results in an equivalent amount
as not to raise a burr or ridge (flare) at the cut end of the pipe. of cement being applied to the joining surfaces.
If other tools are not available, a standard rotary metal pipe 7.5.3 Application of Primer and Cement—PVC solvent
cutter may be used, provided great care is taken to remove all cement is fast drying, and therefore the cement shall be applied
the ridge raised at the pipe end by the wedging action of the as quickly as possible, consistent with good workmanship. It
cutting wheels. Failure to remove the ridge will result in the may be necessary for two workers to perform this operation for
cement in the fitting socket being scraped from the socket larger sizes of pipe. Under conditions of high atmospheric
surface, producing a dry joint with a high probability of joint humidity, quick application is important to minimize conden-
failure. Remove all burrs with a knife, file, or abrasive paper. sation of moisture from the air on the cement surface. The
7.2 Joint Preparation—Chamfer or deburr pipe, or both, surface temperature of the mating surfaces should not exceed
approximately as illustrated in Fig. 6. Failing to chamfer the 110°F (45°C) at the time of assembly. In direct sunlight or in
edge of the pipe may remove the cement and softened material ambient temperatures above 110°F, the pipe surface may
from the fitting socket, and result in a leaking joint. exceed 110°F. The pipe temperature may be reduced by
7.3 Test Dry Fit of the Joint (see Fig. 7)—The solvent swabbing the surface to be cemented with clean wet rags
cement joint is designed so that there will generally be provided the pipe is thoroughly dried before the primer and
interference of pipe wall with the fitting socket before the pipe cement are applied.
is fully inserted. Insert the pipe into the fitting and check that 7.5.3.1 First apply primer to inside socket surface (see 7.5.2
the interference occurs about 1⁄3 to 2⁄3 of the socket depth. for applicator or brush size). Use a scrubbing motion to ensure
Sometimes, when the pipe and fittings are at their tolerance penetration. Repeated applications may be necessary (see Fig.
extremes or when Schedule 80 pipe is used, it may be possible 9).
to fully insert the dry pipe into the fitting socket until it 7.5.3.2 Next, soften surface of male end of pipe, to be
bottoms. If this occurs, the fit between the pipe and fitting inserted into socket, to depth of fitting socket by uniformly

FIG. 5 Apparatus for Cutting Pipe

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D2855 – 96 (2002)

FIG. 6 Chamfer and Deburring of Pipe Edges

FIG. 7 Pipe Entering Dry Fitting FIG. 9 Application of Primer to Inside Socket Surface

FIG. 8 Cleaning of Pipe with Dry Cloth to Remove Foreign Matter FIG. 10 Liberal Application of Primer to Soften Surface of End of
Pipe

applying a liberal coat of primer. Be sure entire surface is well


softened (dissolved) (see Fig. 10). tion of the surfaces can be achieved at the existing temperature.
7.5.3.3 Again, brush inside socket surface with primer; then, This test can be done by applying the primer, waiting a few
without delay, apply cement to pipe while the surfaces are still minutes and scraping the surface with a knife edge. If sufficient
wet with primer (see Fig. 11). penetration is achieved, some of the plastic surface of the pipe
7.5.3.4 Apply cement lightly but uniformly to inside of should be soft enough to be removed. If sufficient penetration
socket, taking care to keep excess cement out of socket. This is is not achieved, even with multiple applications of primer, it is
to prevent solvent damage to pipe (see Fig. 12). Time is unlikely that a suitable joint will result.
important at this stage. Apply a second coat of cement to the 7.5.4.1 Individual scrape tests may be needed for pipes and
pipe end (see Fig. 11). fittings from different manufacturers or even for pipes and
7.5.4 Low-Temperature Application—At temperatures be- fittings of different lots from the same manufacturer, because of
low freezing, 32°F (0°C), solvents penetrate and soften the possible surface variations. Furthermore, it is good practice to
PVC surfaces more slowly than in warmer weather. For this use this test, regardless of ambient temperature, not only
reason it is recommended that testing be done on a piece of because of possible surface variations in pipes and fittings, but
scrap pipe of the same lot to determine if satisfactory penetra- also because of differences in pipe primer formulations. If

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D2855 – 96 (2002)
SOFT and WET with solvent cement, forcefully bottom the
male end of the pipe in the socket (see Fig. 13). Turn the pipe
or fitting 1⁄4 turn during assembly (but not after the pipe is
bottomed) to distribute the cement evenly.
7.7.1 Assembly should be completed within 20 s after the
last application of cement. The pipe should be inserted with a
steady even motion. Hammer blows should not be used. If
there is any sign of drying of the cement surfaces, due to delay
in assembly, the surfaces should be recoated, taking care again
not to apply a surplus of cement to the inside of the socket,
particularly in bell-end pipe. As large axial forces are necessary
FIG. 11 Uniform Application of Cement to Outside of Pipe for the assembly of interference fit joints in large-size pipe, two
or more workers are needed for such joints. Mechanical forcing
equipment, “come-alongs,’’ or levers and braces may also be
necessary. Until the cement is set in the joint, the pipe may
back out of the fitting socket if not held in place for approxi-
mately 1 min after assembly. Care should be taken during
assembly not to disturb or apply any force to joints previously
made. Fresh joints can be destroyed by early rough handling
(see 7.5.1).
7.7.2 After assembly, wipe excess cement (Fig. 14) from the
pipe at the end of the fitting socket. A properly made joint will
normally show a bead around its entire perimeter. Any gaps at
this point may indicate a defective assembly job, due to
FIG. 12 Uniform But Light Application of Cement to Inside of insufficient cement or the use of light-bodied cements on large
Socket diameters where standard (heavy-bodied) cement should have
been used.
7.8 Set Time—Handle the newly assembled joints carefully
satisfactory penetration of joining surfaces does not occur until the cement has gone through the set period. Recom-
when tested as outlined above with available cement or mended set time is related to temperature as follows:
primers, contact your pipe, fitting, cement, or primer manufac- 30 min minimum at 60 to 100°F (15 to 40°C)
turer before proceeding. 1 h minimum at 40 to 60°F (5 to 15°C)
7.5.4.2 Important considerations for cementing in cold 2 h minimum at 20 to 40°F (−5 to 5°C)
weather are: 4 h minimum at 0 to 20°F (−20 to −5°C)
(1) Prefabricate as much of the system as possible in a
heated work area. 8. Installation
(2) Store sealed cements and primers between 40°F (5°C) 8.1 After the set period, the pipe can be carefully placed in
to 70°F (21°C) when not in use and make sure they remain a prepared ditch and snaked from side to side. Prior to
fluid. Do not use open flame or electric heaters to warm backfilling, the pipe shall be brought to approximate operating
cements or primers. temperature either by shade backfilling, or by filling with
(3) Take special care to remove moisture, including ice water, or by allowing to stand overnight. The pipe system
and snow, from pipe and fitting surfaces before applying should be allowed to stand vented to the atmosphere prior to
primer or cement. pressure testing. The set period before the system is pressure-
(4) Always use primer to soften the joining surfaces tested will depend on the specific cement, the size of the pipe,
before applying cement. More than one application may be the ambient temperature, and the dry-joint tightness. Necessary
necessary.
(5) Allow a longer cure time before the system is used.
This is necessary because the solvents evaporate more slowly
at cold temperatures. Refer to Table X2.1.
7.6 Special Instructions for Bell-End Pipe—The procedure
in 7.5 may be followed in the case of bell-end pipe except that
great care should be taken not to apply an excess of cement in
the bell socket, nor should any cement be applied on the
bell-to-pipe transition area. This precaution is particularly
important for installation of bell-end pipe with a wall thickness
of less than 1⁄8 in. (3 mm).
7.7 Assembly of Joint—Immediately after applying the last
coat of cement to the pipe, and while both the inside socket
surface and the outside surface of the male end of the pipe are FIG. 13 Assembly of Joint

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D2855 – 96 (2002)
small pipe sizes, quick-drying cements, and tight-fitting joints.
Longer cure periods are required for low temperatures, large
pipe sizes, slow-drying cements, loose joints, and relatively
high humidity. Shade backfill, leaving all joints exposed so that
they can be examined during pressure tests. On long runs
pressure tests should be performed on sections no longer than
5000 ft (1500 m). Test pressure should be 150 % of system
design pressure and held at this pressure until the system is
checked for leaks, or follow the requirements of the applicable
code, whichever is higher.

FIG. 14 Wiping Excess Cement from Pipe After Assembly 9. Safe Handling of Solvent Cement
9.1 Solvent cements, primers, and cleaners for plastic pipe
cure time can vary from minutes to days depending on are made from flammable liquids and should be kept away
conditions and the solvent cement used. Appendix X2 shows from all sources of ignition. Good ventilation should be
cure schedules for several ranges of pipe sizes and tempera- maintained to reduce fire hazard and to minimize breathing of
tures. As a general rule, relatively short cure periods are solvent vapors. Avoid contact with skin and eyes.
satisfactory for high-ambient temperatures with low humidity, 9.2 Refer to Practice F402 for additional information.

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. STANDARDS FOR PVC PIPING COMPONENTS

X1.1 Standards for PVC pipe, fittings, and cements suitable (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe
for use in making solvent-cemented joints: and Fittings4
X1.1.1 ASTM Standards: * D 3034 Specification for Type PSM Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
(PVC) Sewer Pipe and Fittings4
* D 1785 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) * D 3138 Specification for Solvent Cements for Transition
Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40, 80, and 1204 Joints Between Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) and
* D 2241 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Non-Pressure Piping Compo-
Pressure-Rated Pipe (SDR Series)4 nents4
* D 2466 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) F 409 Specification for Thermoplastic Accessible and Re-
Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 404 placeable Plastic Tube and Tubular Fittings4
* D 2467 Specification for Socket-Type Poly(Vinyl Chlo- F 512 Specification for Smooth-Wall Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
ride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 804 (PVC) Conduit and Fittings for Underground Installation4
* D 2513 Specification for Thermoplastic Gas Pressure F 656 Specification for Primers for Use in Solvent Cement
Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings4 Joints of Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastice Pipe and Fit-
* D 2564 Specification for Solvent Cements for Poly(Vinyl tings4
Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe and Fittings4 F 758 Specification for Smooth-Wall Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
* D 2665 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) (PVC) Plastic Underdrain Systems for Highway, Airport, and
Plastic Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe and Fittings4 Similar Drainage4
* D 2672 Specification for Joints for IPS PVC Pipe Using F 789 Specification for Type PS-46 Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
Solvent Cement4 (PVC) Plastic Gravity Flow Sewer Pipe and Fittings4
* D 2729 Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) F 891 Specification for Coextruded Poly(Vinyl Chloride)
Sewer Pipe and Fittings4 (PVC) Plastic Pipe With a Cellular Core4
* D 2949 Specification for 3.25-in. Outside Diameter Poly- * These standards are also ANSI standards.

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D2855 – 96 (2002)

X2. JOINT CURE SCHEDULE

TABLE X2.1 Joint Cure SchedulesA,B


Test Pressures for Pipe Test Pressures for Pipe Test Pressures for Pipe Test Pressures for Pipe
Temperature Sizes 1⁄2 to 11⁄4 in. Sizes 11⁄2 to 3 in. Sizes 31⁄2 to 5 in. Sizes 6 to 8 in.
Range During
Cure Period,B Up to Above 180 to Up to Above 180 to Up to Above 180 to 315 Up to Above 180 to 315
°F (°C) 180 psi 370 psi (1240 180 psi 315 psi (1240 180 psi psi (1240 to 2170 180 psi psi (1240 to 2170
(1240 kPa) to 2550 kPa) (1240 kPa) to 2170 kPa) (1240 kPa) kPa) (1240 kPa) kPa)
60 to 100 (15 to 40) 1h 6h 2h 12 h 6h 18 h 8h 24 h
40 to 60 (5 to 15) 2h 12 h 4h 24 h 12 h 36 h 16 h 48 h
20 to 40 (−7 to 5) 6h 36 h 12 h 72 h 36 hA 4 daysA 3 daysA 9 daysA
10 to 20 (−15 to −7) 8h 48 h 16 h 96 h 72 hA 8 daysA 4 daysA 12 daysA
Colder than 10 (−15) Extreme care should be exercised on all joints made where pipe, fittings, or cement is below 10°F (−12°C).
A
It is important to note that at temperatures colder than 20°F (−6.7°C) on sizes that exceed 3 in., test results indicate that many variables exist in the actual cure rate
of the joint. The data expressed in these categories represent only estimated averages. In some cases, cure will be achieved in less time, but isolated test results indicate
that even longer periods of cure may be required.
B
These cure schedules are based on laboratory test data obtained on Net Fit Joints (NET FIT = in a dry fit the pipe bottoms snugly in the fitting socket without meeting
interference). The relative humidity in these tests was 50 % or less. Higher relative humidity may require longer cure periods.

X2.1 The cure schedules in Table X2.1 are suggested as turers. Individual manufacturer’s recommendations for their
guides. They are based on laboratory test data, and should not particular cement should be followed.
be taken to be the recommendations of all cement manufac-

X3. GUIDELINES FOR PVC SOLVENT CEMENT SELECTION

X3.1 Cement classifications and guidelines shown are an TABLE X3.2 Cements for Schedule 80 (Note X3.3 and Note X3.4)
aid to selection, and should not be taken to be the recommen- Minimum Viscosity Minimum Wet Film
Pipe Size Thickness
dations of all cement manufacturers. Individual manufacturer’s Range, in.
Cement Type
cement recommendations for pipe sizes, SDR’s, and schedules cP mPa·s in. (mm)
should be followed, for there are situations where joint fits vary ⁄ to 3
18 medium-bodied 500 (500) 0.012 (0.30)
31⁄2 to 12 heavy-bodied 1600 (1600) 0.024 (0.60)
for different applications of the same nominal pipe size. In such
cases variations from the guidelines given in Table X3.1 and
Table X3.2 may be satisfactory and desirable.
the cement at a temperature of approximately 73°F (23°C) to a depth of
NOTE X3.1—The wet-film thickness of a solvent cement can be
1.5 to 2 in. (40 to 50 mm) for a period of 15 s. Remove the pipe from the
measured by using a Nordson Wet Film Thickness Gage or equivalent,
cement and hold the pipe horizontally for 45 s. Measure the wet-film
available from Nordson Corp., Amherst, Ohio 44001, as Nordson No.
thickness on the top surface of the pipe with the end of the gage about 1⁄4
79-0015. To use this gage, dip a short length of 1-in. pipe vertically into
in. (10 mm) from the end of the pipe. With a little care and experience, the
wet cement layer can be readily measured to 60.002 in. (60.05 mm).
TABLE X3.1 PVC Cements for Schedule 40 and Interference Fit NOTE X3.2—Solvent cement manufacturer’s recommendations should
(Note X3.2 and Note X3.3) be followed for set times and cure times when joining pipe sizes above 8
Minimum Viscosity Minimum Wet Film in.
Pipe Size Thickness NOTE X3.3—Medium-bodied and heavy-bodied cements can generally
Cement Type
Range, in.
cP (mPa·s) in. (mm) be used for smaller pipe sizes than those shown in Table X2.1 and Table
⁄ to 2
18 regular-bodied 90 (90) 0.006 (0.15)
X3.1.
21⁄2 to 6 medium-bodied 500 (500) 0.012 (0.30) NOTE X3.4—Solvent cement manufacturer’s recommendations should
8 to 12 heavy-bodied 1600 (1600) 0.024 (0.60) be followed in selecting the proper cement for joining Schedule 80 pipe
sizes above 6 in.

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