BRITISH STANDARD |

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2000
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Threaded pipe fittings in |
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malleable cast iron and |
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cast copper alloy |
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Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

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ICS 23.040.40 |
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NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW
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 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Committees responsible for this

British Standard
The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by Technical Committee
ISE/19, Ferrous pipe fittings (excluding cast iron), to Panel ISE/19/-/3, Panel for
revision of BS 143 & 1256, upon which the following bodies were represented:

British Malleable Tube Fittings Association

British Plumbing Fittings Manufacturers' Association
Co-opted Members
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

This British Standard, having

been prepared under the
direction of the Engineering
Sector Committee, was published
under the authority of the
Standards Committee and comes
into effect on 15 March 2000

 BSI 03-2000

Amendments issued since publication

Amd. No. Date Comments

The following BSI references

relate to the work on this
standard:
Committee reference ISE/19/-/3
Draft for comment 99/707033 DC

ISBN 0 580 33142 3

 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Contents
Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
1 Scope 1
2 Normative references 1
3 Terms and definitions 1
4 Types of fitting 2
5 Materials 2
6 Design options 4
7 Dimensions and tolerances 19
8 Threads 19
9 Manufacture 20
10 Characteristics 20
11 Assembly 21
12 Testing and inspection 21
13 Designation of fittings 21
14 Marking 22
Annex A (informative) Relationship between fitting size and nominal size DN 23
Annex B (normative) Information to be obtained from the purchaser 23
Annex C (normative) Effect of non-metallic materials on water quality 23
Bibliography 24
Figure 1 Ð Forms of reinforcement 4
Figure 2 Ð Temperature/pressure ratings 20
Figure 3 Ð Outlets of fittings with more than two outlets 22
Table 1 Ð Index of fitting types, symbols and specifying tables of this British
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Standard 3
Table 2 Ð Design options 4
Table 3 Ð Elbows A1; male and female elbows A4; tees B1; male and female
tees B4; crosses C1 5
Table 4 Ð Elbows, reducing A1; male and female elbows, reducing A4 6
Table 5 Ð 458 elbows A1/458; 458 male and female elbows A4/458 7
Table 6 Ð Tees, reducing on the branch B1; tees, increasing on the branch B1 8
Table 7 Ð Tees, reducing on the run and branch B1; tees, reducing on the run
and equal on the branch B1 9
Table 8 Ð Bends D1; male and female bends D4; male bends D8; pitcher tees E1;
twin elbows E2 10
Table 9 Ð 458 male and female bends D4/458 10
Table 10 Ð Pitcher tees, reducing on the branch E1; pitcher tees, reducing on
the run E1; pitcher tees, reducing on the branch and run E1 11
Table 11 Ð Return bends Kb1 12
Table 12 Ð Sockets M2; sockets, reducing M2; sockets, eccentric, reducing M3 13
Table 13 Ð Bushes N4 14
Table 14 Ð Hexagon nipples N8; hexagon nipples, reducing N8 15
Table 15 Ð Backnuts P4 16
Table 16 Ð Caps T1; plain plugs T8; beaded plugs T9; countersunk plugs T11;
alternative slotted head plugs for sizes 5 and 6 17
Table 17 Ð Unions, flat seat U1; unions, taper seat U11; male and female unions,
taper seat U12 18
Table 18 Ð Elbow unions, taper seat UA11; male and female elbow unions,
taper seat UA12 18
Table 19 Ð Gaskets for unions, flat seat U1 19
Table 20 Ð Tolerance on length 19
Table 21 Ð Minimum depth of spanner flats 19
Table 22 Ð Jointing threads 20
Table 23 Ð Temperature/pressure ratings 20
Table 24 Ð Design test pressures 20
Table A.1 Ð Relationship between fitting size and nominal size (DN) 23

 BSI 03-2000 i
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Foreword

This British Standard has been prepared by panel ISE/19/-/3. It supersedes

BS 143 & 1256:1986, which is withdrawn.
In 1968, BS 143, the standard for malleable cast iron fittings, and BS 1256, which
covered fittings with parallel internal threads and taper external threads, were revised
and incorporated into one standard, BS 143 & 1256. The 1986 revision of BS 143 & 1256
was related to and followed the general format of ISO 49:1983, Malleable cast iron
fittings threaded to ISO 7-1. ISO 49 was revised in 1994 and this second edition was
used as the basis for preparation of the new European Standard EN 10242, which was
subsequently adopted as BS EN 10242.
The range of fitting sizes and types specified in BS EN 10242 did not fully align with
BS 143 & 1256:1986, so this revision details the fittings not covered by BS EN 10242 that
are in regular production by UK manufacturers. For malleable iron fittings, the
technical requirements have been aligned, where appropriate, with BS EN 10242 to
obviate dual production requirements, and the style of BS EN 10242 has been generally
adopted.
A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii, pages 1 to
24, an inside back cover and a back cover.
The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the document was
last issued.

ii  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

1 Scope 3 Terms and definitions

This British Standard specifies requirements for For the purposes of this standard, the terms and
design and performance of threaded pipe fittings in definitions given in BS EN ISO 6708 and the
malleable cast iron and cast copper alloy for two following apply.
basic designs:
3.1
a) BS 143, with taper external and taper internal
threads; fitting
b) BS 1256, with taper external and parallel connecting piece of one or more parts
internal threads. 3.2
This British Standard applies to fittings in the
following categories: jointing thread
1) category 1: BS 143 design and BS 1256 design, in thread conforming to BS 21
a limited range of malleable cast iron fitting sizes 3.3
and types with threads conforming to
fastening thread
BS 21 (ISO 7-1), and that are not included in
BS EN 10242; thread conforming to BS 2779
2) category 2: BS 143 design only, in a full range of 3.4
malleable cast iron fitting sizes and types with fitting size
threads conforming to ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 (NPT);
3) category 3: BS 143 design only, in a limited designation of thread size of threaded outlet
range of cast copper alloy fitting sizes and types, NOTE See 13.2 for fittings with more than one thread size.
with threads conforming to BS 21 (ISO 7-1) or 3.5
ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 (NPT).
nominal size
These fittings are for general purposes for
transmission of fluids and gases up to the limits of see BS EN ISO 6708
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

pressure and temperature specified in this British NOTE 1 Nominal size is designated by the letters DN followed by
a number.
Standard. They are intended for connection of
elements with threads conforming to BS 21 (ISO 7-1) NOTE 2 Guidance on the relationship between fitting size and
nominal size is given in annex A.
or ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 (NPT), in sizes 1/8 to 6 for
NOTE 3 Nominal size should not be used for designation of
malleable cast iron fittings and sizes 1/8 to 2 for cast fitting size.
copper alloy fittings.
NOTE For use in conditions outside the pressure and 3.6
temperature limits specified in this British Standard, reference reinforcement
should be made to the manufacturer.
additional material on the outside diameter of an
internally threaded fitting in the form of a band or
2 Normative references bead
The following normative documents contain
provisions that, through reference in this text, 3.7
constitute provisions of this British Standard. For rib
dated references, subsequent amendments to, or local and axially aligned additional material on the
revisions of, any of these publications do not apply. outside or inside of a fitting used to assist in
For undated references, the latest edition of the manufacturing or assembly
publication referred to applies.
BS 21:1985, Specification for pipe threads for tubes 3.8
and fittings where pressure-tight joints are made on outlet
the threads (metric dimensions). internally or externally threaded end of a fitting that
BS 2779:1986, Specification for pipe threads for can connect to a tube, fitting or other component
tubes and fittings where pressure-tight joints are
not made on the threads (metric dimensions). 3.9
BS EN 1562:1997, Founding Ð Malleable cast irons. run
BS EN 1982:1999, Copper and copper alloys Ð Ingots two principal axially aligned outlets of fittings with
and castings. more than two outlets
BS EN 10204:1991, Metallic products Ð Types of 3.10
inspection documents.
branch
BS EN ISO 6708:1996, Pipework components Ð
Definition and selection of DN (nominal size). side outlet(s) of a tee, pitcher tee or cross
ANSI/ASME B1.20.1:1983, Pipe threads, general
purpose (inch).

 BSI 03-2000 1
 BS 143 & 1256:2000
3.11
chamfer
machined or cast surface in the form of a cone at
the entrance of a thread used to assist assembly and
to prevent damage to the start of the thread
3.12
face-to-face dimension
distance between the two parallel faces of axially
aligned outlets of a fitting
3.13
face-to-centre dimension
distance between the face of an outlet and the
central axis of an angularly disposed outlet
3.14
centre-to-centre dimension
distance between the axes of the two outlets of a
return bend
4 Types of fitting
Table 1 gives the fitting types and corresponding
symbols used in this British Standard, together with
a reference to the table in which their sizes and
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI
dimensions are specified.
NOTE The symbols relate to identification of fittings and may be
used for designation (see 13.1).
5 Materials
5.1 Fittings
5.1.1 Malleable cast iron
Malleable cast iron for fittings shall conform to
BS EN 1562. The grade of material shall be selected
from the following:
Ð grades EN-GJMW-400-5 or EN-GJMW-350-4 for
fittings in whiteheart malleable cast iron;
Ð grades EN-GJMB-350-10 or EN-GJMB-300-6 for
fittings in blackheart malleable cast iron.
5.1.2 Other ferrous materials
Other ferrous materials with mechanical properties
at least equivalent to the malleable cast irons
specified in 5.1.1 may be used for straight fittings up
to and including 3/8, but shall not be used for unions
or for larger fittings.
5.1.3 Cast copper alloy
Cast copper alloy for fittings shall conform to
BS EN 1982. The grade of material shall be selected
from the following:
Ð symbol CuSn3Zn8Pb5-C, alloy no. CC 490K;
Ð symbol CuSn5Zn5Pb5-C, alloy no. CC 491K;
Ð symbol CuSn7Zn2Pb3-C, alloy no. CC 492K.
2  BSI 03-2000
5.2 Gasket material
If the purchaser states that the gasket could come
into contact with potable water (see annex B) the
material shall either:
Ð conform to annex C; or
Ð conform to the purchaser's own specification.
NOTE If the purchaser does not indicate a gasket material, the
gasket material is not covered by this British Standard.
5.3 Hot dip zinc coating
5.3.1 General
If zinc coating protection is required on malleable
cast iron fittings, it shall be applied by the hot dip
process and shall conform to 5.2.2 to 5.2.4.
NOTE For fittings of other ferrous materials (see 5.1.2)
alternative zinc coating may be provided by agreement with the
purchaser.
5.3.2 Chemical composition
The content by mass of the accompanying elements
in the finish zinc coating shall not exceed the
following:
Ð aluminium (Al): 0.1 %;
Ð antimony (Sb): 0.01 %;
Ð arsenic (As): 0.02 %;
Ð bismuth (Bi): 0.01 %;
Ð cadmium (Cd): 0.01 %;
Ð copper (Cu): 0.1 %;
Ð lead (Pb): 1.6 % (or by agreement, 1.8 %);
Ð tin (Sn): 0.1 %.
5.3.3 Coating mass per surface unit
The surface related mass of the zinc coating shall be
not less than 500 g/m2, as a mean of five fittings.
(This corresponds to a medium layer thickness
of 70 mm.) The surface related mass of the zinc
coating shall not be less than 450 g/m2 (63 mm)
measured on any individual sample.
NOTE The medium layer thickness s of the zinc coating, in
micrometres, can be calculated by using the approximation
formula:
m
s= A
7.2
where
mA is the surface related mass of the zinc coating in g/m2.
5.3.4 Surface condition
Zinc coating on the internal surface of the fitting
shall be continuous, except for with machined black
surfaces. The internal zinc coating shall be free from
zinc blisters, zinc burrs and non-metallic remainders.
NOTE In the special case of larger material cross-sections, it is
permissible for the iron-zinc alloy phases to grow through.
5.4 Despatch conditions of finished fittings
The surfaces of fittings shall be free of polycyclic
aromatic hydrocarbons.
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 1 Ð Index of fitting types, symbols and specifying tables of this British Standard
Fitting type Description Symbol Outlets type/pattern no. Table no.
A Elbows A1 Female-equal outlets 3
Female-reducing outlets 4
A4 Male/female-equal outlets 3
Male/female-reducing outlets 4
458 elbows A1/458 Female-equal outlets 5
A4/458 Male/female-equal outlets
B Tees B1 Female-equal outlets 3
Female-reducing outlets 6, 7
Female-increasing outlets 6
B4 Male/female-equal outlets 3
C Crosses C1 Female-equal outlets 3
D Bends D1 Female-equal outlets 8
D4 Male/female-equal outlets 8
D8 Male-equal outlets 8
458 bends D4/458 Male/female-equal outlets 9
E Pitcher tees E1 Female-equal outlets 10
Female-reducing outlets 10
Twin elbows E2 Female-equal outlets 8
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Kb Return bends Kb1 Female-equal outlets 11

M Sockets M2 Female-equal outlets 12
Female-reducing outlets
M3 Female-reducing outlets
M4 Male/female-reducing outlets
N Bushes N4 Pattern I 13
Pattern II
Hexagon nipples N8 Male-equal 14
Male-reducing
P Backnuts P4 Ð 15
T Caps T1 Ð 16
Plugs T8 Plain pattern 16
T9 Beaded pattern
T11 Countersunk pattern
U Unions U1 Female-flat seat pattern 17
U11 Female-taper seat pattern
U12 Male/female-taper seat pattern
UA Elbow unions UA11 Female-taper seat pattern 18
UA12 Male/female-taper seat pattern

 BSI 03-2000 3
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

6 Design 6.4 Manufacturers may incorporate ribs at their

6.1 Design options are based on the basic design,
thread type and material grade. Fittings shall
conform to one of the design options given in
Table 2.
discretion. Ribs shall not project higher than the
band or bead.
6.5 Backnuts shall be plain or recessed.
NOTE One face of each backnut may be machined.

6.2 The face-to-face, face-to-centre and 6.6 Plugs shall be:

centre-to-centre dimensions of fittings shall conform
to Tables 3 to 18.
NOTE The drawings in Tables 3 to 18 are diagrammatic and
should not limit the manufactured form of the fittings.
6.3 Bushes, nipples, backnuts, plugs, and unions
shall be provided with flats for assembly purposes.
Flats on plugs shall be square except that for sizes 5
and 6 a slotted head may be provided as shown in
Table 16. Flats on other fittings (except unions) shall
be hexagonal on sizes ‹ and below, and hexagonal
or octagonal on sizes above ‹. Flats on unions may
be hexagonal, octagonal or decagonal.
All other fittings shall be reinforced at the internally
threaded end with a band or bead (see Figure 1)
except that caps and sockets may alternatively have
a polygonal shaped reinforcement.
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI
a) solid type for sizes ¡ and ï;
b) solid or hollow type for sizes ® to 4;
c) hollow type for sizes 5 and 6.
6.7 Two typical types of seat for unions and their
designations are given in Tables 17 and 18. Unions
with other types of seat design and unions with seats
of materials other than specified in 5.1 may be
considered to conform to this standard if they
conform to Tables 17 and 18 and the other
requirements of this standard. (These unions do not
have a formal designation.) Gaskets for
type U1 unions shall conform to Table 19. If the
gasket could come into contact with potable water,
the gasket material shall conform to annex C.

Table 2 Ð Design options

Design option Basic design Thread type Material grade
External Internal Malleable cast iron Copper alloy
1 BS 143 R Rc EN-GJMB-300-6 Ð
2 BS 1256 R Rp EN-GJMB-350-10
3 BS 143 NPT NPT EN-GJMW-350-4
EN-GJMW-400-5
4 BS 143 R Rc Ð CC 490K
5 BS 143 NPT NPT CC 491K
CC 492K
NOTE 1 The design option is for manufacturers only. It does not indicate design options available for the purchaser.
NOTE 2 BS 143 and BS 1256 design fittings in malleable iron are also identified in BS EN 10242 and ISO 149 by design symbols A, B,
C, or D depending on the material grade and thread type.

Band Bead

Figure 1 Ð Forms of reinforcement

4  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 3 Ð Elbows A1; male and female elbows A4; tees B1; male and female tees B4; crosses C1

Elbows A1 Male/female elbows A4 Tees B1 Male/female tees B4 Crosses C1

Fitting size Dimensions

A1 A4 B1 B4 C1 a b c
Cat. 2 Cat. 3 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 mm mm mm
¡ Ð ¡ Ð ¡ ¡ Ð Ð Ð Ð 19 25 Ð
ï ï ï ï ï ï Ð Ð ï Ð 21 28 Ð
® ® ® ® ® ® Ð Ð ® Ð 25 32 Ð
¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ 28 37 41
‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ Ð 33 43 48
1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Ð 38 52 54
1ï 1ï 1ï Ð 1ï 1ï Ð Ð 1ï Ð 45 60 Ð
1¯ 1¯ 1¯ Ð 1¯ 1¯ Ð Ð 1¯ Ð 50 65 Ð
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

2 2 2 Ð 2 2 Ð Ð 2 Ð 58 74 Ð
2¯ Ð 2¯ Ð 2¯ Ð Ð Ð 2¯ Ð 69 88 Ð
3 Ð 3 Ð 3 Ð Ð Ð 3 Ð 78 98 Ð
4 Ð 4 Ð 4 Ð Ð Ð 4 Ð 96 118 Ð
5 Ð Ð Ð 5 Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 115 Ð Ð
6 Ð Ð Ð 6 Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 131 Ð Ð
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.

 BSI 03-2000 5
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 4 Ð Elbows, reducing A1; male and female elbows, reducing A4

Elbows, reducing A1 Male and female elbows, reducing A4

Fitting size Dimensions
A1 A4 a b c
Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 1 Cat. 2 mm mm mm
Ð ®3ï Ð Ð 23 23 Ð
¯3ï ¯3ï Ð Ð 25 25 Ð
Ð ¯3® Ð Ð 26 26 Ð
Ð ‹3¯ Ð ‹3¯ 30 31 40
Ð 13¯ 13¯ 13¯ 32 34 51
Ð 13‹ Ð 13‹ 35 36 46
1ï 3 ¯ 1ï 3 ¯ Ð Ð 34 39 Ð
Ð 1ï 3 ‹ Ð Ð 36 41 Ð
Ð 1ï 3 1 Ð Ð 40 42 Ð
1¯ 3 ‹ 1¯ 3 ‹ Ð Ð 39 44 Ð
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Ð 1¯ 3 1 Ð Ð 42 46 Ð
231 231 Ð Ð 46 48 Ð
2 3 1ï Ð Ð Ð 44 51 Ð
Ð 2 3 1¯ Ð Ð 52 55 Ð
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.

6  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 5 Ð 458 elbows A1/458; 458 male and female elbows A4/458

458 elbows A1/458 458 male and female elbows A4/458

Fitting size Dimensions

A1/458 A4/458 a b
Category 1 Category 2 Category 1 Category 2 mm mm
ï ï Ð Ð 19 Ð
Ð ® Ð Ð 20 Ð
Ð ¯ Ð ¯ 22 28
Ð ‹ Ð Ð 25 Ð
Ð 1 Ð Ð 28 Ð
Ð 1ï Ð Ð 33 Ð
Ð 1¯ Ð Ð 36 Ð
Ð 2 Ð Ð 43 Ð
2¯ 2¯ 2¯ Ð 50 62
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

3 3 3 Ð 55 70
4 4 Ð Ð 66 Ð
6 6 Ð Ð 88 Ð
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.

 BSI 03-2000 7
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 6 Ð Tees, reducing on the branch B1; tees, increasing on the branch B1

Tees, reducing on the Tees, increasing on

branch B1 the branch B1
Tees, reducing on the branch
Fitting size Dimensions Fitting size (cont.) Dimensions
(cont.)
Category 1 Category 2 a b Category 1 Category 2 a b
(1) and (2) 3 (3) mm mm (1) and (2) 3 (3) (1) and (2) 3 (3) mm mm
Ð ®3ï 23 23 2¯ 3 ¯ 2¯ 3 ¯ 41 57
Ð ¯3ï 24 24 2¯ 3 ‹ 2¯ 3 ‹ 44 59
Ð ¯3® 26 26 Ð 2¯ 3 1 47 60
Ð ‹3ï 26 27 Ð 2¯ 3 1ï 52 62
Ð ‹3® 28 28 Ð 2¯ 3 1¯ 55 63
Ð ‹3¯ 30 31 Ð 2¯ 3 2 61 66
Ð 13ï 28 31 33¯ 33¯ 51 68
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Ð 13® 30 32 33‹ 33‹ 51 68

Ð 13¯ 32 34 Ð 331 51 67
Ð 13‹ 35 36 Ð 3 3 1ï 55 70
Ð 1ï 3 ¯ 34 38 Ð 3 3 1¯ 58 71
Ð 1ï 3 ‹ 36 41 Ð 332 64 73
Ð 1ï 3 1 40 42 Ð 3 3 2¯ 72 76
Ð 1¯ 3 ¯ 36 42 431 431 56 81
Ð 1¯ 3 ‹ 38 44 4 3 1ï 4 3 1ï 61 83
Ð 1¯ 3 1 42 46 4 3 1¯ 4 3 1¯ 64 84
Ð 1¯ 3 1ï 46 48 Ð 432 70 86
Ð 23¯ 38 48 4 3 2¯ 4 3 2¯ 77 89
Ð 23‹ 40 50 Ð 433 84 92
Ð 231 44 52 633 633 92 121
Ð 2 3 1ï 48 54 634 634 105 125
Ð 2 3 1¯ 52 55 Ð Ð Ð Ð
Tees, increasing on the branch
Fitting size Dimensions Fitting size (cont.) Dimensions
(cont.)
Category 1 Category 2 a b Category 1 Category 2 a b
(1) and (2) 3 (3) (1) and (2) 3 (3) mm mm (1) and (2) 3 (3) (1) and (2) 3 (3) mm mm
Ð ¯3‹ 31 30 Ð 1ï 3 2 54 48
Ð ‹31 36 35 Ð 1¯ 3 2 55 52
Ð 1 3 1ï 42 40 2 3 2¯ 2 3 2¯ 66 61
Ð 1 3 1¯ 46 42 Ð Ð Ð Ð
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.

8  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 7 Ð Tees, reducing on the run and branch B1; tees,

reducing on the run and equal on the branch B1

Tees, reducing on the Tees, reducing on the run

run and branch and equal on the branch
Tees, reducing on the run and the branch Tees, reducing on the run and equal on the branch
Fitting size Dimensions Fitting size Dimensions
Category 1 Category 2 a b c Category 1 Category 2 a b c
(1) 3 (2) 3 (3) (1) 3 (2) 3 (3) mm mm mm (1) 3 (2) 3 (3) (1) 3 (2) 3 (3) mm mm mm
Ð ¯3®3® 26 26 25 ¯3ï3¯ ¯3ï3¯ 28 28 25
Ð ‹3¯3¯ 30 31 28 Ð ‹3¯3‹ 33 33 31
Ð 13‹3¯ 32 34 30 Ð 13¯31 38 38 34
Ð 13‹3‹ 35 36 33 Ð 13‹31 38 38 36
Ð 1ï 3 1 3 ¯ 34 38 32 Ð 1ï 3 ¯ 3 1ï 45 45 38
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Ð 1ï 3 1 3 ‹ 36 41 35 Ð 1ï 3 ‹ 3 1ï 45 45 41
Ð 1ï 3 1 3 1 40 42 38 Ð 1ï 3 1 3 1ï 45 45 42
Ð 1¯ 3 1 3 1 42 46 38 Ð 1¯ 3 ¯ 3 1¯ 50 50 42
Ð 1¯ 3 1ï 3 ¯ 36 42 34 Ð 1¯ 3 ‹ 3 1¯ 50 50 44
Ð 1¯ 3 1ï 3 1 42 46 40 Ð 1¯ 3 1 3 1¯ 50 50 46
Ð 1¯ 3 1ï 3 1ï 46 48 45 Ð 1¯ 3 1ï 3 1¯ 50 50 48
2 3 1¯ 3 ¯ 2 3 1¯ 3 ¯ 38 48 36 23¯32 23¯32 57 57 48
Ð 2 3 1¯ 3 ‹ 40 50 38 Ð 23‹32 58 58 50
Ð 2 3 1¯ 3 1 44 52 42 Ð 23132 58 58 52
Ð 2 3 1¯ 3 1ï 48 54 46 Ð 2 3 1ï 3 2 Ð Ð Ð
Ð 2 3 1¯ 3 1¯ 52 55 50 Ð 2 3 1¯ 3 2 58 58 55
2¯ 3 2 3 2 Ð 61 66 57 2¯ 3 1¯ 3 2¯ 2¯ 3 1¯ 3 2¯ 69 69 64
33232 Ð 64 73 57 33233 33233 78 78 73
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.

 BSI 03-2000 9
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 8 Ð Bends D1; male and female bends D4; male bends D8; pitcher tees E1; twin elbows E2

Bends D1 Male/female bends D4 Male bends D8 Pitcher tees E1 Twin elbows E2

Fitting size Dimensions
D1 D4 D8 E1 E2 a b
Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 Cat. 1 Cat. 2 mm mm
Ð ï Ð ï Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 30 Ð
Ð ® Ð ® Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 36 Ð
Ð ¯ Ð ¯ Ð ¯ ¯ Ð ¯ Ð Ð ¯ 45 24
Ð ‹ Ð ‹ Ð ‹ ‹ Ð ‹ Ð Ð ‹ 50 28
Ð 1 Ð 1 1 1 1 Ð 1 1 Ð 1 63 33
Ð 1ï Ð 1ï Ð 1ï 1ï Ð 1ï Ð Ð 1ï 76 40
Ð 1¯ Ð 1¯ Ð 1¯ 1¯ Ð 1¯ Ð Ð 1¯ 85 43
Ð 2 Ð 2 Ð 2 2 Ð 2 Ð Ð 2 102 53
2¯ 2¯ 2¯ 2¯ Ð Ð Ð 2¯ 2¯ Ð 2¯ 2¯ 114 61
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

3 3 3 3 Ð Ð Ð 3 3 Ð 3 3 127 70
4 4 4 4 Ð Ð Ð 4 4 Ð Ð Ð 165 87
5 5 Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 191 Ð
6 6 6 6 Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 229 Ð
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.

Table 9 Ð 458 male and female bends D4/458

458 male and female bends D4/458

Fitting size D4/458 Dimension a
Category 1 Category 2 mm
ï ï 19
® ® 21
¯ ¯ 25
‹ ‹ 29
1 1 35
1ï 1ï 42
1¯ 1¯ 48
2 2 55
2¯ 2¯ 61
3 3 68
4 4 87
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.

10  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 10 Ð Pitcher tees, reducing on the branch E1; pitcher tees, reducing on the run E1;
pitcher tees, reducing on the branch and run E1

Pitcher tees, reducing on Pitcher tees, reducing Pitcher tees, reducing on

the branch E1 on the run E1 the branch and run E1
Pitcher tees, reducing on the branch E1
Fitting size Dimensions Fitting size (cont.) Dimensions (cont.)
(1) and (2) 3 (3) a b c (1) and (2) 3 (3) a b c
mm mm mm mm mm mm
Ð ‹3¯ 47 48 25 Ð 2 3 1ï 80 85 45
Ð 13¯ 49 51 28 Ð 2 3 1¯ 91 94 48
Ð 13‹ 53 54 30 2¯ 3 ¯ 2¯ 3 ¯ 60 75 37
Ð 1ï 3 ¯ 51 56 30 2¯ 3 ‹ 2¯ 3 ‹ 60 75 37
Ð 1ï 3 ‹ 55 58 33 2¯ 3 1 2¯ 3 1 72 85 40
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Ð 1ï 3 1 66 68 36 2¯ 3 1ï 2¯ 3 1ï 83 93 45
1¯ 3 ¯ 1¯ 3 ¯ 52 58 29 2¯ 3 1¯ 2¯ 3 1¯ 94 103 48
Ð 1¯ 3 ‹ 55 61 33 2¯ 3 2 2¯ 3 2 104 109 54
Ð 1¯ 3 1 66 71 36 33‹ 33‹ 63 82 39
Ð 1¯ 3 1ï 77 79 41 3 3 1¯ 3 3 1¯ 96 109 50
23¯ 23¯ 54 64 32 332 332 106 116 56
23‹ 23‹ 58 67 35 4 3 2¯ 4 3 2¯ 121 133 69
Ð 231 70 77 40 433 433 132 139 75
Pitcher tees, reducing on the run E1 Pitcher tees, reducing on the branch and run E1
Fitting size Dimensions (mm) Fitting size Dimensions (mm)
(1) 3 (2) 3 (3) (cat. 2) a b c (1) 3 (2) 3 (3) (cat. 2) a b c
‹3¯3‹ 50 50 27 ‹3¯3¯ 47 48 24
Ð Ð Ð Ð 13‹3¯ 49 51 25
Ð Ð Ð Ð 13‹3‹ 53 54 28
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.

 BSI 03-2000 11
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 11 Ð Return bends Kb1

Return bends Kb1

Fitting size Kb1 Dimension a
Category 1 Category 2 mm
¯ ¯ 38
‹ ‹ 50
1 1 64
1ï 1ï 76
1¯ 1¯ 89
2 2 102
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

12  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 12 Ð Sockets M2; sockets, reducing M2; sockets, eccentric, reducing M3

Sockets M2 Sockets, reducing M2 Sockets, eccentric, reducing M3

Fitting size Dimension a

M2 M2, reducing M3 (min.)
mm
Category 2 Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 1 Category 2
ï Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 25.5
® Ð ®3ï ®3ï Ð Ð 28.5
¯ Ð ¯3ï Ð Ð Ð 34
Ð ¯3® ¯3® Ð Ð
‹ Ð ‹3ï Ð Ð Ð 37
Ð ‹3® Ð Ð Ð
Ð ‹3¯ ‹3¯ ‹3¯ ‹3¯
1 13ï 13ï Ð Ð Ð 43
Ð 13® Ð Ð Ð
Ð 13¯ 13¯ 13¯ 13¯
Ð 13‹ 13‹ 13‹ 13‹
1ï Ð 1ï 3 ¯ Ð 1ï 3 ¯ 1ï 3 ¯ 48
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Ð 1ï 3 ‹ Ð 1ï 3 ‹ 1ï 3 ‹
Ð 1ï 3 1 Ð 1ï 3 1 1ï 3 1
1¯ Ð 1¯ 3 ¯ Ð 1¯ 3 ¯ 1¯ 3 ¯ 52.5
Ð 1¯ 3 ‹ Ð 1¯ 3 ‹ 1¯ 3 ‹
Ð 1¯ 3 1 Ð 1¯ 3 1 1¯ 3 1
Ð 1¯ 3 1ï Ð 1¯ 3 1ï 1¯ 3 1ï
2 Ð 23¯ Ð 23¯ 23¯ 62.5
Ð 23‹ Ð 23‹ 23‹
Ð 231 Ð 231 231
Ð 2 3 1ï Ð 2 3 1ï 2 3 1ï
Ð 2 3 1¯ Ð 2 3 1¯ 2 3 1¯
2¯ 2¯ 3 1¯ 2¯ 3 ¯ Ð 2¯ 3 ¯ 2¯ 3 ¯ 71.5
2¯ 3 1 2¯ 3 1 Ð Ð Ð
Ð 2¯ 3 1ï Ð Ð Ð
Ð 2¯ 3 1¯ Ð 2¯ 3 1¯ 2¯ 3 1¯
Ð 2¯ 3 2 Ð 2¯ 3 2 2¯ 3 2
3 331 331 Ð Ð Ð 77
Ð 332 Ð 332 332
Ð 3 3 2¯ Ð 3 3 2¯ 3 3 2¯
4 Ð 432 Ð Ð Ð 91
Ð 4 3 2¯ Ð Ð Ð
Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð
5 Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 105.5
6 633 Ð Ð Ð Ð 116.5
634 634 Ð Ð Ð
635 Ð Ð Ð Ð
NOTE For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.

 BSI 03-2000 13
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 13 Ð Bushes N4

Bushes N4

Fitting size Pattern Dim. a Fitting size (cont.) Pattern Dim. a

Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 mm Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 (cont.) (cont.)
mm
Ð ï3¡ ï3¡ I 20 2¯ 3 ¯ 2¯ 3 ¯ Ð II 40
Ð ®3¡ ®3¡ II 20 2¯ 3 ‹ 2¯ 3 ‹ Ð II
Ð ®3ï ®3ï I Ð 2¯ 3 1 Ð II
Ð ¯3¡ ¯3¡ II 24 Ð 2¯ 3 1ï Ð II
Ð ¯3ï ¯3ï II Ð 2¯ 3 1¯ Ð II
Ð ¯3® ¯3® I Ð 2¯ 3 2 Ð II
‹3¡ ‹3¡ Ð II 26 33¯ 33¯ Ð II 44
Ð ‹3ï ‹3ï II 33‹ 33‹ Ð II
Ð ‹3® ‹3® II Ð 331 Ð II
Ð ‹3¯ ‹3¯ I Ð 3 3 1ï Ð II
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Ð 13ï Ð II 29 Ð 3 3 1¯ Ð II
Ð 13® Ð II Ð 332 Ð II
Ð 13¯ 13¯ II Ð 3 3 2¯ Ð II
Ð 13‹ 13‹ I 431 431 Ð II 51
1ï 3 ï 1ï 3 ï Ð II 31 4 3 1ï 4 3 1ï Ð II
Ð 1ï 3 ® Ð II 4 3 1¯ 4 3 1¯ Ð II
Ð 1ï 3 ¯ 1ï 3 ¯ II Ð 432 Ð II
Ð 1ï 3 ‹ 1ï 3 ‹ II Ð 4 3 2¯ Ð II
Ð 1ï 3 1 1ï 3 1 I Ð 433 Ð II
1¯ 3 ï 1¯ 3 ï Ð II 31 534 534 Ð II 59
Ð 1¯ 3 ® Ð II 632 632 Ð II 62
Ð 1¯ 3 ¯ 1¯ 3 ¯ II 633 633 Ð II
Ð 1¯ 3 ‹ 1¯ 3 ‹ II 634 634 Ð II
Ð 1¯ 3 1 1¯ 3 1 II
Ð 1¯ 3 1ï 1¯ 3 1ï I
23® 23® Ð II 35
Ð 23¯ Ð II
Ð 23‹ Ð II
Ð 231 231 II
Ð 2 3 1ï 2 3 1ï II
Ð 2 3 1¯ 2 3 1¯ II
NOTE 1 For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.
NOTE 2 For dimension s see 7.2.

14  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 14 Ð Hexagon nipples N8; hexagon nipples, reducing N8

Hexagon nipples N8 Hexagon nipples, reducing N8

Fitting size Dimension a

N8 N8, reducing (min.)
Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 mm

Ð ï ï ï3¡ ï3¡ ï3¡ 34

Ð ®
Ð ¯
‹ ‹
Ð 1
Ð 1ï
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI
® Ð ®3ï ®3ï 36
¯ Ð ¯3ï Ð 42
Ð ¯3® ¯3®
Ð ‹3® Ð 45
Ð ‹3¯ ‹3¯
1 Ð 13¯ Ð 50.5
Ð 13‹ 13‹
1ï Ð 1ï 3 ¯ Ð 54.5
Ð 1ï 3 ‹ Ð

Ð 1¯
Ð 2
Ð 2¯
Ð 3
Ð 4
6 6
NOTE 1 For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.
NOTE 2 For dimension s see 7.2.
Ð 1ï 3 1 1ï 3 1
1¯ Ð 1¯ 3 ‹ Ð 56.5
Ð 1¯ 3 1 Ð
Ð 1¯ 3 1ï 1¯ 3 1ï
2 Ð 231 Ð 65.5
Ð 2 3 1ï Ð
Ð 2 3 1¯ 2 3 1¯
Ð 2¯ 3 1¯ Ð Ð 72.5
Ð 2¯ 3 2 Ð
Ð Ð 332 Ð 80
Ð 3 3 2¯ Ð
Ð Ð Ð Ð 92
Ð Ð Ð Ð 106.5

 BSI 03-2000 15
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 15 Ð Backnuts P4

Backnuts P4
Fitting size P4 Dimension a (min.)
Category 2 Category 3 mm
ï ï 6
® ® 7
¯ ¯ 8
‹ ‹ 9
1 1 10
1ï 1ï 11
1¯ 1¯ 12
2 2 13
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

2¯ Ð 16
3 Ð 19
NOTE 1 For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.
NOTE 2 For dimension s see 7.2.

16  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 16 Ð Caps T1; plain plugs T8; beaded plugs T9; countersunk plugs T11;
alternative slotted head plugs for sizes 5 and 6

Caps T1 Plain plugs T8 Beaded plugs T9 Countersunk plugs T11 Alternative slotted head plugs
for sizes 5 and 6
Fitting sizes Dimensions (min.)
T1 T8 T9 T11 a b c d
Cat. 1 Cat. 3 Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 Cat. 2 Cat. 1 Cat. 2 Cat. 3 mm mm mm mm
Ð Ð Ð ¡ ¡ Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 11 Ð Ð
ï ï Ð ï ï ï ï Ð Ð 15 14 22 11
® ® Ð ® ® ® Ð ® ® 17 15 24 11
¯ ¯ Ð ¯ ¯ ¯ Ð ¯ ¯ 19 18 26 15
‹ ‹ Ð ‹ ‹ ‹ Ð ‹ ‹ 22 20 32 16
1 1 Ð 1 1 1 Ð 1 1 24 23 36 19
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

1ï 1ï Ð 1ï 1ï 1ï 1ï 1ï Ð 27 29 39 20
1¯ 1¯ Ð 1¯ 1¯ 1¯ 1¯ 1¯ Ð 27 30 41 20
2 2 Ð 2 2 2 2 2 Ð 32 36 48 27
2¯ Ð Ð 2¯ Ð Ð 2¯ 2¯ Ð 35 39 Ð 33
3 Ð Ð 3 Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 38 44 Ð Ð
4 Ð Ð 4 Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 45 58 Ð Ð
Ð Ð 5 5 Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 62 Ð Ð
Ð Ð 6 6 Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð Ð 64 Ð Ð
NOTE 1 For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.
NOTE 2 For dimension s see 7.2.

 BSI 03-2000 17
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 17 Ð Unions, flat seat U1; unions, taper seat U11; male and female unions, taper seat U12

Unions, flat seat U1 Unions, taper seat U11 Male/female unions, taper seat U12

Fitting size Dimensions

U1 U11 U12 a b
Category 1 Category 2 Category 3 Category 2 mm mm
Ð ¡ Ð Ð 38 Ð
Ð ï ï Ð 42 Ð
Ð ® ® Ð 45 Ð
¯ ¯ ¯ ¯ 48 66
‹ ‹ ‹ ‹ 52 72
1 1 1 1 58 80
Ð 1ï 1ï Ð 65 Ð
Ð 1¯ 1¯ Ð 70 Ð
Ð 2 2 Ð 78 Ð
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Ð 2¯ Ð Ð 85 Ð
Ð 3 Ð Ð 95 Ð
Ð 4 Ð Ð 110 Ð
NOTE 1 For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.
NOTE 2 For dimensions a and b see 7.2.

Table 18 Ð Elbow unions, taper seat UA11; male and female elbow unions, taper seat UA12

Elbow unions, taper seat UA11 Male/female elbow unions, taper seat UA12

Fitting size Dimensions

UA11 UA12 a b c
(category 2) (category 2) mm mm mm
¯ ¯ 58 76 28
‹ ‹ 62 82 33
1 1 72 94 38
NOTE 1 For an explanation of the categories see clause 1.
NOTE 2 For dimensions a, b and c see 7.2.

18  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 19 Ð Gaskets for unions, flat seat U1

Gaskets for unions flat seat U1

Fitting size of union Diameter of gasket (mm)
d D
¯ 21 30
24 34
‹ 27 38
1 32 44
NOTE 21 mm 3 30 mm gaskets are intended for use with gaskets with union nut threads conforming to BS 2779, size 1, and
24 mm 3 34 mm gaskets are intended for use with gaskets with union nut threads conforming to BS 2779, size 1¯.

7 Dimensions and tolerances Table 21 Ð Minimum depth of spanner flats

Fitting size Min. depth of spanner flats
7.1 Dimensions of fittings shall conform to mm
Tables 3 to 18. If maximum or minimum dimensions
are not specified, the tolerances for face-to-face and ¡ 4,0
ï 4,0
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

face-to-centre dimensions of fittings other than

unions shall conform to Table 20. ® 5,0
WARNING Unions should only be used as complete ¯ 5,0
assemblies. Components of different types, or ‹ 5,5
components of the same type from different 1 6,0
manufacturers, may not be interchangeable.
1ï 6,5
NOTE 1 Some fittings have dimensions that are not specified in
this British Standard, and these are outside the scope of this 1¯ 6,5
British Standard. 2 7,0
NOTE 2 The face-to-face and face-to-centre dimensions of unions 2¯ 7,0
are not subject to the tolerances specified in Table 20 because of
the compound effects of component tolerances and design on the 3 7,5
final assembly. 4 8,0
5 12,0
Table 20 Ð Tolerance on length
6 15,0
Dimensions in millimetres
Length Tolerance
8 Threads
#30 ±1,5
8.1 Jointing threads
>30 # 50 ±2,0
Jointing threads shall conform to Table 22.
>50 # 75 ±2,5
±3,0 8.2 Fastening threads
>75 # 100
Threads of union nuts, and mating threads of union
>100 # 150 ±3,5
nuts and backnuts, shall conform to BS 2779.
>150 # 200 ±4,0
8.3 Alignment of threads
>200 ±5,0
Axes of screw threads of fittings with two or more
outlets shall be within ±0.58 of the nominal angle
7.2 The minimum depth of spanner flats, measured between each outlet.
at the corners, shall conform to Table 21. For
backnuts, any chamfering shall not reduce the depth 8.4 Chamfering of threads
of spanner flat below the minimum dimensions given 8.4.1 Outlets of fittings shall be chamfered.
in Table 21. 8.4.2 On internal threads, the chamfer shall have an
NOTE The dimensions of widths across flats s (see Tables 13 included angle of 908 and the diameter of the
to 16) depend on the design of the fittings and may be chosen by chamfer at the face of the fitting shall exceed the
the manufacturer.
major diameter of the thread at the face.

 BSI 03-2000 19
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Table 22 Ð Jointing threads

Basic design External thread Internal thread
BS 143 Taper (R) to BS 21 or Taper (Rc) to BS 21 or
ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 (NPT)a ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 (NPT)a
BS 1256 Taper (R) to BS 21 Parallel (Rp) to BS 21
a American National Standards Institute/American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
NOTE The type of jointing thread should be specified in accordance with annex B. If the purchaser does not specify the type of
thread then the manufacturer should supply fittings with jointing threads conforming to BS 21.

8.4.3 On external threads, the chamfer shall have a Table 23 Ð Temperature/pressure ratings
minimum included angle of 608 and the diameter of Material Service Maximum permissible
the chamfer at the face of the fitting shall not exceed temperature working pressure
the minor diameter of the thread at the face. 8C bara
Malleable cast iron 220 to 120 25
9 Manufacture 300 20
Fittings shall not contain any material detrimental to Cast copper alloy 220 to 120 16
usage. Fittings shall be smooth and free from sand, 300 10
blow holes, cracks, and other injurious defects. a 1 bar = 105 N/m2 = 100 kPa.
Fittings shall not be impregnated to cover such
defects. 10.2 Design strength
Pressure-containing fittings, including the component
10 Characteristics parts of unions, shall be designed to withstand the
10.1 Permissible working pressure and design test pressures specified in Table 24. Each size
temperature of fitting shall be type tested at the design test
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Fittings of all sizes shall be suitable for the pressures specified in Table 24.
maximum permissible working pressures within the NOTE Leakage may be permitted from a union joint at a
temperature ranges given in Table 23 (see also pressure below the pressure given in Table 24 provided that the
pressure is not less than 1,5 3 maximum permissible working
Figure 2). Intermediate pressure ratings at pressure at ambient temperature (see 10.1).
temperatures between 120 8C and 300 8C shall be
determined by linear interpolation. For normal Table 24 Ð Design test pressures
applications the lowest service temperature for
fittings shall be 220 8C. Material Hydrostatic design test pressure
(gauge)
NOTE 1 For use of malleable iron fittings in special applications
below 220 8C, the manufacturer should be consulted. Sizes ¡ to 4 Sizes 5 and 6
NOTE 2 Cast copper alloy fittings can be used at temperatures bar bar
below 220 8C, but consideration should be given to any applicable Malleable cast iron 100 64
codes and the suitability of the connecting pipe material, the
threaded joint, and any thread sealants. Cast copper alloy 64 Ð

Figure 2 Ð Temperature/pressure ratings

20  BSI 03-2000

11 Assembly
Fittings shall be able to withstand normal forces
applied during assembly when correctly assembled
with elements with threads conforming to clause 8.
12 Testing and inspection
12.1 Material
The manufacturer shall ensure by testing that the
material conforms to the grade specified in 5.1.
For malleable iron fittings, in addition to carrying
out the tests described in BS EN 1562, the
manufacturer shall conduct appropriate tests, after
annealing and before machining, to ensure that all
fittings are satisfactorily malleabilized.
12.2 Hot dip zinc coating
Hot dip zinc coating (if required) shall conform
to 5.3.
The elements specified in 5.2.2 shall be determined
using a recognized test method (e.g. atomic
absorption spectroscopy). The coating mass per
surface unit area shall be determined (e.g. in
accordance with BS EN ISO 1460).
NOTE 1 The thickness of the coating may be checked by using
calibrated electronic or magnetic instruments or by microscopic
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI
examination.
The measuring result of a fitting shall be calculated
as the arithmetic mean of at least 10 individual
measurements at points distributed across the fitting.
NOTE 2 BS EN ISO 2178 provides a suitable method for
determination of coating thickness.
Samples of hot dip zinc coated fittings shall be
selected, in accordance with the manufacturer's
sampling procedure, and visually inspected for
compactness and continuity of the zinc coating.
NOTE 3 Some suitable sampling procedures are given in BS 6001.
12.3 Gauging of threads
12.3.1 Jointing threads
Jointing threads shall be gauged in accordance with
system A or B of BS 21:1985, except that for internal
threads the theoretical location of the gauge plane
shall be at the position where the chamfer intersects
the major thread diameter. American pipe threads
shall be gauged in accordance with
ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 (NPT).
12.3.2 Fastening threads
Fastening threads shall be gauged to ensure that
thread diameters conform to BS 2779.
12.4 Alignment of threads
Axes of screw threads shall conform to 8.3.
 BSI 03-2000
BS 143 & 1256:2000
12.5 Leak tightness test
All pressure-containing fittings shall be tested after
machining, but before protective coating other than
with zinc, by one of the following methods:
Ð by application of an internal hydrostatic
pressure of not less than 20 bar; or
Ð by application of an internal pneumatic
pressure of not less than 5 bar, with the fitting
completely immersed in water or light oil; or
Ð by any other method that ensures equivalent
leak tightness.
Fittings shall not show signs of leakage.
Fittings that fail the test shall be rejected.
12.6 Final visual inspection
Fittings shall be free from visible casting or
threading defects.
12.7 Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
analysis
Surfaces shall be analysed for polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (see 5.3) by gas or thin-layer
chromatography or other equivalent method.
12.8 Inspection documents
If requested by the purchaser and agreed with the
supplier, inspection documents conforming to
BS EN 10204:1991, 2.1 or 2.2, as appropriate, shall be
supplied.
13 Designation of fittings
13.1 Elements of designation
Fittings shall be designated with the following:
a) the type of fitting (see Table 1);
b) the basic design, thread type and material grade
(see 6.1 and Table 2);
c) the identification symbol of the fitting
(see Table 1);
d) the fitting size (see 6.2 and 12.2 and Tables 3
to 19);
e) surface condition, for malleable iron fittings
[either black (symbol Fe) or hot dip zinc coated
(symbol Zn); see 5.2].
NOTE The basic designation should be supplemented by the
purchaser with additional information as given in annex B.
21
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

13.2 Additional requirements for designation 14 Marking

of fitting size
Fittings shall be marked, by casting, with at least the
a) Equal fittings following:
Equal fittings with all outlets the same size shall a) the manufacturer's name or trademark;
be specified by the one size, irrespective of the
b) the fitting size (as defined in 4.4).
number of outlets.
The fitting size marking shall be the same as the
b) Unequal fittings
designation of fitting size (as specified in 13.2), or,
Unequal fittings shall be specified by the sizes of alternatively, the fitting shall be marked with the
each outlet. The sequence shall depend on the thread size designation at each outlet.
number of outlets as follows:
Other markings shall not conflict with the markings
1) Unequal fittings with two outlets shall be in items a) and b).
specified by the outlets in decreasing order. NOTE If it is not practicable to mark fittings because of casting
2) Tees B1 and E1 with equal outlets on the run method space limitations, either or both of a) and b) may be
and an increasing or reducing outlet on the omitted, provided that both markings are given on the packaging
material. In this case the fitting shall not be marked with any
branch shall be specified by the size of the run other marking.
followed by the size of the branch.
3) Tees B1 and E1, reducing on the run, or with
three different outlets, shall be specified by
either a) or b), as shown in Figure 3.
NOTE Method b) should be phased out during 2000. After this,
all fittings should be designated by method a).
Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

Figure 3 Ð Outlets of fittings with more than two outlets

22  BSI 03-2000
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Annex A (informative)
Relationship between fitting size and nominal size DN
The relationship between the fitting size (designation of thread size), and nominal size (DN) is given in Table A.1.

Table A.1 Ð Relationship between fitting size and nominal size (DN)
Designation of thread ¡ ï ® ¯ ‹ 1 1ï 1¯ 2 2¯ 3 4 5 6
size/fitting size
Nominal size, DN 6 8 10 15 20 25 32 40 50 65 80 100 125 150

Annex B (normative)
Information to be obtained from the purchaser
The following information, that supplements the designation detailed in 12.1, shall be obtained from the
purchaser at the time of enquiry and/or order:
a) the type of thread (see clause 8);
b) the fitting material (see 5.1);
c) the specific design of backnut, plug or union, if design alternatives are permitted (see 6.6 to 6.8);
d) whether an inspection document is required (see 11.8);
e) whether the gasket could come into contact with potable water, and so whether a particular type of gasket
material is required for unions, type U1 (see Table 19).

Annex C (normative)
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Effect of non-metallic materials on water quality

When used under conditions for which they are designed, non-metallic materials that could come in contact with
potable water shall not constitute a toxic hazard, shall not support microbial growth, and shall not produce
unpleasant tastes or odours, cloudiness, or discoloration of the water.
Concentrations of substances, chemicals and biological agents leached from materials in contact with potable
water, and measurements of the relevant organoleptic/physical parameters, shall not exceed the maximum values
recommended by the World Health Organization in its publication Guidelines for drinking water quality,
Vol. 1: Recommendations (WHO, Geneva 1984), or as required by the EEC Council Directive
of 15 July 1980 relating to the quality of water intended for human consumption (Official Journal of the
European Communities L229, 11-29), whichever in each case is the more stringent.
NOTE 1 Requirements for testing the effects of non-metallic materials on water quality are set out in the UK Water Fittings Byelaws
Scheme Information and Guidance Note 5-01-02, ISSN 0267-0313, obtainable from the Water Research Centre Water Byelaws Advisory
Service, 660 Ajax Avenue, Slough, Berkshire SL1 4BG.
NOTE 2 Pending determination of suitable means to characterize the toxicity of leachates from materials in contact with potable water,
materials approved by the Department of the Environment Committee on Chemicals and Materials of Construction for use in Public
Water Supply and Swimming Pools should be considered free from toxic hazard for the purposes of this annex. A list of approved
chemicals and materials is available from the Technical Secretary of that Committee at the Department of the Environment, Water
Division, Romney House, 43 Marsham Street, London SW1P 3PY.
NOTE 3 Products manufactured for installation and use in the United Kingdom that are verified and listed under the UK Water Fittings
Byelaws Scheme administered by the Water Research Centre Water Byelaws Advisory Service, 660 Ajax Avenue, Slough,
Berkshire SL1 4BG are deemed to conform to this British Standard.

 BSI 03-2000 23
 BS 143 & 1256:2000

Bibliography

BS 6001 (all parts), Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes.

ISO 7-1:1995, Pipe threads where pressure tight joints are made on the threads Ð Part 1: Designation,
dimensions and tolerances.
BS EN ISO 1460:1995, Metallic coatings Ð hop dip galvanized coatings on ferrous materials Ð Gravimetric
determination of the mass per unit area.
BS EN ISO 2178:1995, Non-magnetic coatings on magnetic substrates Ð Measurement of coating thickness Ð
Magnetic method.
BS EN 10242:1995, Threaded pipe fittings in malleable cast iron.
ISO 49:1994, Malleable cast iron threaded to ISO 7-1.
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24  BSI 03-2000
 Licensed copy:RMJM, 30/08/2005, Uncontrolled Copy, © BSI

blank
 BS 143 & 1256: |
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