FEATURES 17
Fitness for purpose testing assesses the product to determine if it is able to perform its function which is typically stipulated in product specifications. These tests range from basic tests such as dimensional measurements to more intricate tests such as hydrostatic pressure testing which
“ Pipe testing is critical on multiple levels. It is important for testing to take place at the point before the raw material is processed, all the way through to after the pipe has been manufactured, at regular intervals,” says Marsberg.
AENOR and CEISLAB have a strong relationship that is key to collaboration in the field of certification and quality assurance. These two companies have been collaborating in the conformity assessment of plastic pipes since 2001, when CEISLAB established the plastic pipes and fittings laboratory. While CEISLAB specialises in advanced technical testing to assess product performance and resistance, AENOR serves as a certification body, ensuring that products comply with European and international standards. This alliance strengthens the credibility of tested products and facilitates their recognition in global markets.
When it comes to the South African market, AENOR has already issued 76 certificates for seven factories in South Africa, one in Botswana and three located in Angola.“ We are fully confident that with the support of CEISLAB South Africa the number of tested and certified products will multiply in the coming years,” he adds.
Pipe testing is important for safety and durability.
products are safe and suitable for use. This not only extends the service life of plastic pipes but also reduces maintenance and replacement costs.
Laboratory testing should be used in conjunction with inhouse control testing to verify processes and provide reassurance to customers of independent, accredited, third-party testing results.
“ We often experience the situation where a sample set of pipes will arrive at the laboratory to be checked for material properties and performance requirements even though a project may be well into the phase of pipe installation- or, even more perilously, after a failure has been detected on site. These scenarios, when failures are detected, lead to increased lead times and, naturally, have massive cost implications,” says Marsberg.“ In most of these scenarios, the failure of the samples are due to easily rectified issues arising from material inconsistencies or processing errors.”
Finally, plastic pipe testing is key to minimising environmental impact by preventing contamination and hazardous substance leaks. In this way, it promotes the development of safer, more efficient and sustainable infrastructure.
Pipes are tested for resilience in extreme conditions.
The pipe testing process follows a series of standardised procedures designed to ensure strength, durability and compliance with local, regional or international regulations. Among the main tests are pressure tests, which assess the pipe’ s ability to withstand internal stress without leaks or failures; mechanical tests, which determine resistance to tension, impact and flexibility; and chemical analysis, which verifies the material composition to ensure it meets required specifications.
Additionally, visual and dimensional inspections are carried out to confirm the absence of visible defects and ensure precise measurements, while environmental tests simulate prolonged exposure to harsh conditions, evaluating resistance to aging, humidity and chemicals.
One of the primary objectives of these tests is to ensure the pipes ' resistance to extreme conditions, such as pressure, temperature and exposure to chemicals. Additionally, they play a crucial role in preventing leaks and structural failures, reducing risks for both the environment and the infrastructure where they are installed. Moreover, testing contributes to compliance with regulatory standards and quality requirements set by industry authorities, ensuring that
Pipe testing is important, and so is the timing of the testing. In the best-case scenario, all tests pass and clients as well as manufacturers have peace of mind that their products will perform as expected for many years. In the worst case, errors can be detected early in the process and expert insight could provide clarity about what could have caused the problem, and what potential consequences could be if not rectified.
“ At the heart of our goal is to try to be the best partners we can be to our clients,” says Marsberg.“ As such, a crucial phase of any testing process is to understand our clients’ needs and help them timeously and accurately.” PA
With technical input from SAPPMA, AENOR and CEISLABS
To become a member of SAPPMA, a company needs to:
• Be certified by an accredited authority and display the mark of approval
• Successfully pass a thorough factory and systems audit conducted by a SAPPMA auditor
• Agree to and sign a strict code of conduct
• Pay the necessary membership fee
June 2025 Volume 31 I Number 04 www. plumbingafrica. co. za