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D2737-22 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
📋 Scope and Material Classification
ASTM D2737-22 is issued under the fixed designation D2737 and covers polyethylene (PE) plastic tubing in outside diameters and Standard Dimension Ratios (SDRs) pressure rated for water. The specification defines requirements for PE compounds, workmanship, dimensions, elevated temperature sustained pressure, burst pressure, and marking. All PE compounds must conform to Specification D3350 for Polyethylene Plastics Pipe and Fittings Materials. For potable water end-use applications, the standard references AWWA C901 and PPI Technical Note 49 (TN‑49). Oxidative Resistance Classification (CC# rating) information is available from NSF International.
🚫 Flaring Not Authorized: Joining PE plastic tubing with fittings that require flaring the tubing is not recommended because Practice D3140, the technique used to make the flare, has been withdrawn (discontinued). Users must select alternative joining methods in compliance with current industry practice.
⚙️ Dimensional Tolerances and Testing Protocols
Dimensional verification is performed in accordance with Test Method D2122, with specimens conditioned per Practice D618. The tubing must meet strict outside diameter and wall thickness tolerances based on the specified SDR. Performance testing for hydrostatic design basis is conducted per Test Method D2837. Short-term burst pressure is determined via Test Method D1599, while resistance to sustained pressure at elevated temperatures is evaluated per Test Method D1598. For tubing in chlorinated water environments, oxidative resistance is assessed per Test Method F2263.
| 📐 SDR | 🎯 Pressure Class (psi) for PE4710 / PE100 | 🔍 Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 315 | High-pressure service lines |
| 9 | 250 | General water service lines |
| 11 | 200 | Municipal water mains |
| 13.5 | 160 | Irrigation and residential supply |
| 17 | 125 | Low-pressure distribution systems |
📊 Marking, Compliance, and Raw Material Controls
Tubing conforming to D2737 must be clearly marked with the standard designation, nominal size, SDR, the material code per D3350, and the manufacturer’s identification. Raw material quality is controlled through the D3350 cell classification system. Carbon black content for UV resistance is verified via Test Methods D1603 or D4218, and accelerated weathering is assessed per Practices D2565 or G154.
💡 Units of Measure: The values stated in inch-pound units are regarded as the standard in D2737. Values in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units provided for information only and are not considered the primary specification requirement.
| 📏 Property | ⚡ Specified Cell Limit (D3350) | 📋 Test Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Density | 3 – 6 (0.926 – 0.955 g/cm³) | D1505 / D792 |
| Melt Index (190°C / 2.16 kg) | 3 – 5 (0.15 – 1.9 g/10 min) | D1238 |
| Tensile Strength at Yield | 3 – 5 (3000 – 3900+ psi) | D638 |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What size range does ASTM D2737 typically cover?
D2737 generally covers smaller diameter tubing sized on the Copper Tube Size (CTS) system. Nominal sizes typically range from ½ in. to 3 in., with specific SDR values providing defined pressure classes for water service.
💡 How is the Pressure Class of the tubing determined?
The Pressure Class is derived from the material’s Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB), established per Test Method D2837, combined with the tubing geometry (SDR). A lower SDR yields a thicker wall and a higher pressure rating at a given HDB.
⚡ What is the significance of the CC# rating mentioned in the standard?
The Oxidative Resistance Classification (CC# rating), available from NSF International, quantifies the material’s resistance to degradation from chlorinated water. This classification helps engineers specify tubing suitable for continuous exposure to disinfectants in potable water systems.
📌 Does D2737 cover tubing for gas applications?
No, this standard specifically covers polyethylene tubing pressure rated for water. Gas distribution tubing is covered under a separate ASTM specification, D2513.