Overview
ASTM C662-16(2021), Standard Specification for Impervious Graphite Pipe and Threading, sets forth the international requirements for the physical dimensions and thread types used in impervious graphite pipe and fittings. This standard, published by ASTM International, provides a key reference for organizations involved in the manufacture, supply, and installation of impervious graphite and impervious carbon pipe systems. By adhering to this specification, manufacturers and users ensure compatibility, quality, and reliability in applications that require resistance to liquid penetration.
Key Topics
- Pipe Sizing Standardization: Specifies eight standard pipe sizes, detailing permissible variations in inside diameter, outside diameter, and length for impervious graphite pipe.
- Thread Specifications: Defines the types, dimensions, and tolerances for both male and female threads used for joining pipes and fittings. Notably, standard metric threads for impervious graphite pipe are not established under this specification.
- Material Definitions: Clarifies what constitutes impervious graphite and impervious carbon, both involving impregnation with a resinous material to render the materials impervious to liquids within specified operating ranges.
- International Principles: Developed in accordance with globally recognized standardization principles, specifically referencing the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee guidelines.
- Limitation to Physical Dimensions: The scope is specifically limited to standardization of physical pipe and thread dimensions, not addressing material performance or chemical properties.
Applications
ASTM C662-16(2021) is applicable in numerous industries and contexts where impervious graphite or impervious carbon pipe systems are required, particularly where prevention of fluid permeation is critical.
- Chemical Processing: Used in piping systems handling aggressive or corrosive liquids, where leakage prevention is essential.
- Petrochemical Facilities: Suitable for fluid transfer systems demanding high corrosion resistance and minimal leak risk.
- Industrial Equipment: Applied in manufacturing settings that require maintenance-free, long-lasting pipework with reliable joint integrity.
- Replacement Parts and Maintenance: Ensures standardized dimensions for compatibility and interchangeability of pipes and fittings in existing installations.
Organizations relying on this standard benefit from improved system integrity, easier maintenance, parts replacement, and enhanced safety through adherence to reliable dimensional and threading requirements.
Related Standards
To ensure comprehensive compliance and best practice in piping systems, the following related standards may also be relevant:
- ASTM C568: Standard Specification for Carbon and Graphite Structural Shapes
- ASTM C747: Standard Test Method for Modulus of Rupture of Graphite Electrodes and Graphite Sulfur Resistors
- ISO Standards: International equivalents and supporting documents on dimensions and properties of industrial pipes
- WTO TBT Principles: Guidelines on standardization and regulatory harmonization
Practical Value
Adopting ASTM C662-16(2021) helps manufacturers, engineers, and suppliers:
- Achieve interoperability in piping systems using industry-accepted pipe and threading dimensions
- Minimize the risk of leaks through standardized impervious graphite or carbon materials
- Facilitate global trade and acceptance of products through compliance with internationally developed standards
- Reduce installation and maintenance errors thanks to precise, uniform specifications
ASTM C662-16(2021) is a critical standard for quality assurance and engineering consistency in the use of impervious graphite pipe and threading for high-integrity industrial applications.