ASTM C610-17 (2023) PDF

Full title and description

Standard Specification for Molded Expanded Perlite Block and Pipe Thermal Insulation — ASTM C610‑17 (Reapproved 2023). This specification covers molded expanded perlite blocks, fittings, and pipe thermal insulation intended for use on surfaces with service temperatures from approximately 80 to 1200 °F (27 to 649 °C).

Abstract

Defines physical, dimensional, and performance requirements for molded expanded perlite block, fittings, and pipe-type insulation, including dimensional tolerances, density, thermal conductivity, hot‑surface/aging performance, shrinkage, water absorption, and acceptance/qualification criteria for manufactured lots. The standard is intended to ensure consistent product quality for industrial and building thermal insulation applications.

General information

• Status: Current — originally adopted 2017; reapproved (R23) in 2023.
• Publication date: Reapproval published March 28, 2023 (designation C610‑17, reapproved 2023).
• Publisher: ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials).
• ICS / categories: 91.100.60 — Thermal and sound insulating materials.
• Edition / version: C610‑17 (2017 original adoption), reapproved 2023 (often cited as 2017 R23).
• Number of pages: 4 pages (concise specification).

Scope

The specification applies to molded expanded perlite block, molded fittings, and preformed pipe insulation intended for thermal insulation of surfaces operating roughly between 80 and 1200 °F (27 and 649 °C). It covers allowable dimensions and tolerances for block and pipe sections, compositional notes (expanded perlite with silicate binders, optional reinforcing fibers), sampling and acceptance practices, and qualification/acceptance criteria for mechanical, thermal, and durability properties. Purchasers and suppliers may agree on specific dimensional or nested multilayer arrangements to meet application needs.

Key topics and requirements

• Product types covered: molded expanded perlite block, fittings, and pipe thermal insulation.
• Service temperature range: about 80 to 1200 °F (27 to 649 °C).
• Dimensional tolerances for block and pipe half‑sections; multilayer/nested constructions allowed to meet pipe diameters.
• Physical and performance requirements: density, compressive resistance, flexural strength, apparent thermal conductivity, linear shrinkage after soaking heat, water absorption after heat aging, hot‑surface performance, and combustibility/weight‑loss criteria.
• Sampling and acceptance: lot sampling per Practice C390 and specified acceptance tests; purchaser/supplier agreement for special sampling provisions.
• Qualification tests commonly specified: flexural strength, compressive resistance, surface burning characteristics, linear shrinkage, water absorption, apparent thermal conductivity, hot‑surface performance, corrosion/mass‑loss tests, and tumbling/abrasion loss.

Typical use and users

Used by insulation manufacturers, plant/pipeline designers, mechanical contractors, insulation specifiers, and procurement professionals specifying thermal insulation for industrial equipment, process piping, and high‑temperature applications where molded perlite products are appropriate. Typical sectors include petrochemical, power generation, industrial processing, and building services specifying high‑temperature insulation materials.

Related standards

References and related practices/test methods commonly associated with this specification include ASTM test methods and practices for thermal insulation such as C302/C302M, C303, C335/C335M, C356, C390 (sampling/acceptance), C450, and Practice C585 for pipe insulation dimensions and fittings. The standard is part of the wider ASTM C16 committee portfolio on thermal insulation.

Keywords

molded expanded perlite; perlite block; perlite pipe insulation; thermal insulation; high‑temperature insulation; ASTM C610; reapproved 2023; pipe coverings; insulation fittings.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM C610‑17 (Reapproved 2023) is the ASTM specification that defines requirements for molded expanded perlite block, fittings, and pipe thermal insulation.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers composition, dimensional tolerances, physical and thermal properties, sampling and acceptance procedures, and qualification/acceptance tests for molded expanded perlite block and pipe insulation intended for use at elevated temperatures (roughly 80–1200 °F / 27–649 °C).

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Insulation manufacturers, specifiers, mechanical engineers, contractors, and procurement teams in industrial and building services sectors where molded perlite insulation is selected for thermal protection and high‑temperature service.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: Current — the 2017 designation was reapproved in 2023 (commonly cited as C610‑17, reapproved 2023), so it remains an active ASTM specification.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is part of ASTM’s thermal‑insulation portfolio (committee C16) and is commonly used alongside related ASTM practices and test methods (for example C302/C303/C335/C356/C390 and Practice C585) referenced in the specification.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Molded expanded perlite, perlite block, pipe insulation, thermal insulation, high temperature, ASTM C610, fittings, dimensional tolerances.