Standard Practice for Wedge Welding of Polymeric Geomembranes

1.1 This practice is applicable for the hot wedge welding of geomembrane liners produced from polymer materials in sealing of geotechnical and hydraulic engineering systems.

1.2 Welding devices may include hot wedge or hot air wedge welders.

1.3 In this practice, the aim is to provide information on and give insight into the importance of factors that influence the quality and durability of geomembrane welds. This standard covers all weldable thermoplastic geomembranes, including of reinforced materials.

1.4 Extrusion welding and the welding of bituminous and non-thermoplastic geomembranes are not covered.

1.5 The work should only be carried out by operators with demonstrated competency in the welding of polymeric geomembranes. Only equipment designed for the welding of polymeric geomembranes shall be used. All operators of such equipment shall have training specific to the equipment and geomembranes being used.

1.6 Units—The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.7 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.8 This 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.