Standard Test Method for Concrete Pipe Sewerlines by Negative Air Pressure (Vacuum) Test Method

1.1 This test method covers procedures for testing concrete pipe sewerlines, when using the negative air pressure (vacuum) test method to demonstrate the integrity of the installed material and the construction procedures. This test method covers testing of 4 to 36-in. diameter circular concrete pipe sewerlines utilizing gasketed joints.

Note 1—The user of this test method is advised that methods described herein may also be used as a preliminary test to enable the manufacturer or installer to demonstrate the condition of sewer pipe prior to delivery or backfill. Minimum test times presented in are for pipelines. Holding times for testing an individual pipe may have to be increased to allow for the accumulation of leakage when the tested pipe are incorporated into a continuous pipeline.

1.2 A complete metric companion to Test Method C 1214 has been developed—C 1214M; therefore, no metric equivalents are presented in this test method.

Note 2—The user of this test method is advised that the negative air pressure (vacuum) test criteria presented in this test method are similar to those in general use. The test and criteria have been used widely and successfully in testing smaller diameter pipe. Larger pipe will be accepted more conveniently by visual inspection and individual joint testing.

Note 3—The user of this test method is advised that no correlation has been found between loss of vacuum and water leakage.

1.3 This 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. See Section 6 for specific safety precautions.