AWWA Standard (For) Polyethylene Encasement For Ductile-Iron Pipe Systems

ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.
5-05
(Revision of ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5-99)
The Authoritative Resource on Safe WaterSM
AWWA Standard
Polyethylene Encasement
for Ductile-Iron Pipe
Systems
Effective date: Dec. 1, 2005.

First edition approved by AWWA Board of Directors in 1972.
This edition approved June 12, 2005.
Approved by American National Standards Institute Sept. 14, 2005.
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AWWA Standard
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describe minimum requirements and do not contain all of the engineering and administrative information normally
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ii
Committee Personnel
A21 Subcommittee 4, Coatings and Linings, which reviewed this standard, had the follow-
ing personnel at the time:
Troy F. Stroud, Chair

Kenneth W. Henderson, Vice-Chair
General Interest Members

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K.W. Henderson, Malcolm Pirnie Inc., White Plains, N.Y. (AWWA)

D.H. Kroon, Corrpro Companies Inc., Houston, Texas (AWWA)
D.A. Lincoln, Aurora Pipe Line Company, Commerce City, Colo. (AWWA)
P.I. McGrath Jr., Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
J.R. Plattsmier, MWH Americas Inc., Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
W.H. Smith, Flora, Ill. (AWWA)
K.E. Wilson, Post Buckley Schuh & Jernigan, Tampa, Fla. (AWWA)
Producer Members
D.R. Charko, McWane, Inc., Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)

Chris Comins, Custom Fab Inc., Orlando, Fla. (AWWA)
A.M. Horton, U.S. Pipe & Foundry Company, Birmingham, Ala. (DIPRA)
Harold Kennedy Jr., Harold Kennedy & Associates, Cary, N.C. (AWWA)
Michael Lundstrom, Eastland, Texas (AWWA)
C.W. McCauley Jr., Griffin Pipe Products Company, Lynchburg, Va. (DIPRA)
P.L. Robertson, Specification Rubber Products Inc., Alabaster, Ala. (AWWA)
P.A. Selig, American Cast Iron Pipe Company, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
E.J. Shields Jr., Waterworks Supply Corporation, Malden, Mass. (AWWA)
T.F. Stroud, Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association, Birmingham, Ala. (DIPRA)
User Members
K.A. Alms, Missouri–American Water Company, St. Louis, Mo. (AWWA)

D.T. Bradley, Oak Lodge Water District, Milwaukie, Ore. (AWWA)
R.R. Goold, Kansas City Water Services Department, Kansas City, Mo. (AWWA)
T.C. Moreno, Bexar Metro Water District, San Antonio, Texas (AWWA)
iii
D.W. Russom, Central Arkansas Water, Little Rock, Ark. (AWWA)
C.R. Schwenker, Fairfax Water, Fairfax, Va. (AWWA)
R.L. Worden, Guadalupe–Blanco River Authority, Seguin, Texas (AWWA)
AWWA Standards Committee A21, Ductile-Iron Pipe and Fittings, which reviewed and
approved this standard, had the following personnel at the time of approval:
John R. Plattsmier, Chair

Charles W. McCauley Jr., Vice-Chair
General Interest Members
K.W. Henderson, Malcolm Pirnie Inc., White Plains, N.Y. (AWWA)

H.E. Holcomb, Jordan Jones & Goulding Inc., Norcross, Ga. (AWWA)
M.B. Horsley, Black & Veatch, Kansas City, Mo. (AWWA)
D.H. Kroon, Corrpro Companies Inc., Houston, Texas (AWWA)
G.E. Laverick, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, Ill. (UL)
T.J. McCandless,* Standards Engineer Liaison, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
P.I. McGrath Jr., Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
J.R. Plattsmier, MWH Americas Inc., Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
W.H. Smith, Flora, Ill. (AWWA)
L.C. Yates, McGoodwin Williams & Yates, Fayetteville, Ark. (AWWA)
Ken Zastrow,† Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, Ill. (UL)
Producer Members
John Critchlow, Pacific States Cast Iron Pipe Company, Provo, Utah (AWWA)
L.R. Dunn, U.S. Pipe & Foundry Company, Birmingham, Ala. (DIPRA)
Harold Kennedy Jr., Harold Kennedy & Associates, Cary, N.C. (AWWA) --``,`,,``,,`,,```,`,,``,,,``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Michael Lundstrom, Eastland, Texas (AWWA)

C.W. McCauley Jr., Griffin Pipe Products Company, Lynchburg, Va. (DIPRA)
T.J. Muntz, Fab Pipe Inc., Rogers, Minn. (AWWA)
Gene Oliver,† American Cast Iron Pipe Company, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
*Liaison, nonvoting
† Alternate
iv
P.A. Selig, American Cast Iron Pipe Company, Birmingham, Ala. (DIPRA)
J.E. Shea,* McWane Cast Iron Pipe Company, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
E.J. Shields Jr., Waterworks Supply Corporation, Malden, Mass. (AWWA)
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T.F. Stroud, Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association, Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)
T.B. Wright,* National Association of Pipe Fabricators, Edmond, Okla. (AWWA)
User Members
D.T. Bradley, Oak Lodge Water District, Milwaukie, Ore. (AWWA)

T.E. Coughran, City of Santa Ana, Santa Ana, Calif. (AWWA)
A.J. DeBoy, American Water—Central Region, St. Louis, Mo. (AWWA)
R.R. Goold, Kansas City Water Services Department, Kansas City, Mo. (AWWA)
G.L. Meyer, City of Sioux Falls, Sioux Falls, S.D. (AWWA)
D.D. Montgomery, Independence Water Department, Independence, Mo. (AWWA)
T.C. Moreno, Bexar Metro Water District, San Antonio, Texas (AWWA)
C.J. Patla, Connecticut Water Company, Clinton, Conn. (AWWA)
C.R. Schwenker, Fairfax Water, Fairfax, Va. (AWWA)
R.L. Worden, Guadalupe–Blanco River Authority, Seguin, Texas (AWWA)
R.D. Zwygart, Tampa Water Department, Tampa, Fla. (AWWA)
* Alternate
v
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Contents
All AWWA standards follow the general format indicated subsequently. Some variations from this format
may be found in a particular standard.
SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE
Foreword 4.3 Marking ............................................. 5
I Introduction...................................... ix 4.4 Installation ......................................... 5
I.A Background....................................... ix 5 Verification
I.B Research............................................. x
5.1 Inspection and Affidavit of
I.C History............................................... x
Compliance................................... 10
II Special Issues..................................... xi
II.A Useful Life of Polyethylene ............... xi 6 Delivery ........................................... 10
II.B Type of Material .............................. xii
Appendix
II.C Exposure to Sunlight ....................... xii
II.D Copper Service Connections............ xii A Notes on Procedures for Soil
III Use of This Standard ...................... xiii Survey Tests and Observations
III.A Purchaser Options and and Their Interpretation to
Alternatives .................................. xiii Determine Whether
III.B Modification to Standard................ xiii Polyethylene Encasement
IV Major Revisions .............................. xiii Should Be Used ............................ 11
V Comments ...................................... xiii Figures
1 Installation Method A........................ 6
Standard
2 Slack-Reduction Procedure for
1 General
Installation Methods A and B......... 7
1.1 Scope ................................................. 1 3 Installation Method B........................ 7
1.2 Purpose .............................................. 1 4 Installation Method C ....................... 8
1.3 Application ........................................ 1 5 Preferred Method for Making Direct
2 References.......................................... 2 Service Taps on Polyethylene-
Encased Iron Pipe ........................... 9
3 Definitions ........................................ 2
Tables
4 Requirements 1 Polyethylene Tube and Sheet
4.1 Materials ............................................ 3 Sizes for Push-on Joint Pipe ........... 4
4.2 Tube Size or Sheet Width ................. 4 A.1 Soil-Test Evaluation......................... 14
vii
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Foreword
This Foreword is for information only and is not a part of ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5.
I. Introduction.
I.A. Background. In 1926, the American Standards Association (ASA) (now
American National Standards Institute [ANSI]) Committee A21, Cast-Iron Pipe and
Fittings, was organized under the sponsorship of the American Gas Association
(AGA), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), American Water
Works Association (AWWA), and the New England Water Works Association
(NEWWA). The current sponsor is AWWA, and the present scope of Committee
A21 is to develop standards and manuals for ductile-iron pressure pipe for water
supply service and ductile-iron and gray-iron fittings for use with this pipe. These
standards and manuals include design, dimensions, materials, coatings, linings,
joints, accessories, and methods of inspection and testing.
In 1958, Committee A21 was reorganized. Standards were divided into groups
focusing on the topics listed above, and subcommittees were established to study each
group in accordance with the review and revision policy of ASA. In 1984, the
committee became AWWA Standards Committee A21 on Ductile-Iron Pipe and
Fittings.
The present scope of A21 Subcommittee 4, Coatings and Linings, is to review
interior and exterior corrosion of ductile-iron pipe and fittings and to draft standards
for the interior and exterior protection of ductile-iron pipe and fittings. Accordingly,
Subcommittee 4 is responsible for the development of
1. Standards on polyethylene encasement materials and their installation to
provide corrosion protection, when required, for ductile-iron pipe and fittings.
2. Procedures for the investigation of soil to determine when polyethylene pro-
tection is indicated.
I.A.1. History of polyethylene encasement. Loose polyethylene encasement
was first used experimentally in the United States in 1951 for protection of gray-iron
pipe in corrosive environments. The first field installation of polyethylene wrap on
gray-iron pipe in an operating water system was in 1958. The installation consisted
of approximately 600 ft (180 m) of 12-in. (305-mm) pipe installed in a waste-dump
fill area. Since 1958, polyethylene encasement has been used extensively in
installations in severely corrosive soils throughout the United States on pipe ranging
ix
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in size from 3 in. to 64 in. (76 mm to 1,600 mm) in diameter. Polyethylene
encasement has been used as a soil-corrosion preventive in a number of other
countries as well. An International Standard for Polyethylene Sleeving (ISO-8180)*
has been adopted since the procedure was developed in the United States.
I.B. Research. The Cast Iron Pipe Research Association (CIPRA)† (now
known as the Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association [DIPRA]) has researched
several severely corrosive test sites. The tests indicate that polyethylene encasement
provides a high degree of protection resulting in minimal and generally insignificant
exterior surface corrosion of ductile-iron and gray-iron pipe protected in this manner.
Investigations of many field installations in which loose polyethylene encasement
has been used as protection for ductile-iron and gray-iron pipe against soil corrosion
confirm DIPRA’s findings. These field installations also indicate that the dielectric
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capability of polyethylene provides shielding for ductile-iron and gray-iron pipe from
stray direct current at most levels encountered in the field.
I.C. History. The first edition of this standard was published in 1972 as
American National Standard for Polyethylene Encasement for Gray and Ductile
Cast-Iron Piping for Water and Other Liquids.
In 1976, Subcommittee 4 reviewed the 1972 edition and submitted a
recommendation to Committee A21 that the standard be reaffirmed without change,
except for updating the Foreword.
In the 1982 revision, ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5-82, references to gray cast-iron
pipe were deleted from the title and throughout the standard because gray cast-iron
pipe was no longer produced in the United States. Also, metric conversions of all
dimensions were added to the standard.
The 1986 edition of the standard defined the thickness requirement for
polyethylene film; provided new figures showing installation methods; and extended
the length of connecting piping to be wrapped from 2 ft (0.6 m) to 3 ft (0.9 m).
Additionally, a requirement for wrapping service lines of dissimilar metals for a
distance of 3 ft (0.9 m) from the ductile-iron pipe was also incorporated.
In the 1993 revision of the standard, Sec. 4.1, Materials, was expanded to include
4-mil high-density cross-laminated (HDCL) polyethylene, and Class B (colors)
*International Organization for Standardization (ISO), ISO Central Secretariat, 1 rue de Varembé,
Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland.
†CIPRA became the Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association (DIPRA) in 1979.
x
material was added to allow the purchase of colored polyethylene. Additionally, Table 1
was modified to reflect reduced tube widths comparable with push-on joint pipe and
fittings, and the size range was expanded to include 60- and 64-in. (1,500- and
1,600-mm) pipe. A recommendation that circumferential wraps of tape be placed at
2-ft (0.6-m) intervals along the barrel of the pipe for installation below the water
table or in areas subject to tidal actions was added to Sec. 4.3.1, and Sec. 4.3.6 was
revised to indicate the preferred method of making direct service taps on
polyethylene-encased pipe. An illustration of this procedure was added.
In 1999, the format was changed to AWWA standard style; Sec. II.D, Copper
Service Connections, was added to the Foreword of the standard; and, definitions of
parties and types of polyethylene film were added to Sec. 3, Definitions, of the
standard. Additionally, changes to Sec. 4.1, Materials, included: (1) deletion of low-
density polyethylene film; (2) the addition of linear low-density polyethylene film
and appropriate material requirements and physical properties; (3) increasing the
tensile strength requirements for the high-density cross-laminated polyethylene film;
(4) the addition of impact- and tear-resistance requirements for both polyethylene
materials; (5) deletion of the minus tolerance on film thickness for both materials;
and, (6) the addition of an ultraviolet inhibitor to any natural or colored film except
black film containing 2 percent or more of carbon black. Other changes to the
standard included the addition of Sec. 4.3, Marking, to facilitate traceability and to
help ensure compliance with the standard; the addition of an alternate method of
using a 3-ft sheet of polyethylene rather than a 3-ft length of polyethylene tube for
joint makeup to Sec. 4.4.2.2, Method; and, the addition of Sec. 5.1, Inspection and
Certification by Manufacturer, to help ensure compliance with the standard. Also,
in Appendix A, a new paragraph on stray current corrosion and a new section on
uniquely severe environments were added. Additionally, the resistivity ranges in
Table A.1, Soil-Test Evaluation, were increased to make the procedure more
conservative.
This edition of ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5 was approved by the AWWA Board
of Directors on June 12, 2005.
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II. Special Issues.

II.A. Useful life of polyethylene. Tests of polyethylene used to protect ductile-
iron and gray-iron pipe have shown that after 40 years of exposure to severely
corrosive soils, strength loss and elongation reduction are insignificant. US Bureau of
xi
Reclamation (BUREC) studies* of polyethylene film used underground illustrate that
tensile strength was nearly constant and that elongation was only slightly affected
during a seven-year test period. BUREC’s accelerated soil-burial testing (acceleration
estimated to be 5 to 10 times that of field conditions) shows polyethylene to be
highly resistant to bacteriological deterioration.
II.B. Type of material. The materials described in this standard are a linear
low-density polyethylene film and a high-density cross-laminated film. A low-density
film was used in the initial research and testing of polyethylene encasement to protect
ductile-iron and gray-iron pipe from corrosion. The current materials provide the
same degree of protection as the low-density film and are stronger and more damage
resistant. Other types of polymeric material are also available that may provide
equally suitable protection.
II.C. Exposure to sunlight. Prolonged exposure to sunlight will eventually
deteriorate polyethylene film. Although the film is required to contain not less than
2 percent carbon black or 2 percent of a hindered-amine ultraviolet inhibitor,
exposure of wrapped pipe should be kept to a minimum.
II.D. Copper service connections. The direct connection of copper services to
ductile- and gray-iron pipelines has historically been a common practice in the
waterworks industry. To minimize the possibility of bimetallic corrosion, service lines
of dissimilar metals and the attendant corporation stop should be wrapped with
polyethylene or a suitable dielectric tape for a minimum clear distance of 3 ft (0.9 m)
from the main (Sec. 4.4.7).
In addition, the grounding of household electrical services to the copper water
service line may also result in stray current corrosion of the copper service or the
ductile-iron or gray-iron main. AWWA policy opposes the grounding of electrical
systems to pipe systems conveying drinking water to a customer’s premises. AWWA
further states that interior piping systems may be connected to an electrical service
neutral and to a separate grounding electrode, provided these systems are electrically
insulated from the water utility’s pipe system. To minimize the possibility of stray-
current corrosion on the ductile-iron or gray-iron main, electrical insulating
couplings should be installed at the water main.
*Laboratory and Field Investigations of Plastic Films. US Department of the Interior, Bureau of
Reclamation, Rept. No. ChE-82 (September 1968).
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xii
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III. Use of This Standard. It is the responsibility of the user of an AWWA

standard to determine that the products described in that standard are suitable for use
in the particular application being considered.
III.A. Purchaser options and alternatives. The following items should be pro-
vided by the purchaser:
1. Type of polyethylene material (Sec. 4.1.1 and Sec. 4.1.2).
2. Color of polyethylene material (Sec. 4.1.3).
3. Installation method—A, B, or C (Sec. 4.3)—if there is a preference.
4. Requirement for delivery of an Affidavit of Compliance (Sec. 5.1.2).
III.B. Modification to standard. Any modification to the provisions, defini-
tions, or terminology in this standard must be provided by the purchaser.
IV. Major Revisions. There were no major revisions to this edition of the
standard.
V. Comments. If you have any comments or questions about this standard,
please call the AWWA Volunteer & Technical Support Group, 303.794.7711,
FAX 303.795.7603, or write to the group at 6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, CO
80235-3098, or e-mail at standards@awwa.org.
xiii
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ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5-05
(Revision of ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5-99)
AWWA Standard
Polyethylene Encasement
for Ductile-Iron Pipe Systems
SECTION 1: GENERAL
Sec. 1.1 Scope

This standard describes materials and installation procedures for polyethylene
encasement to be applied to underground installations of ductile-iron pipe. This
standard also may be used for polyethylene encasement of fittings, valves, and other
appurtenances to ductile-iron pipe systems.
Sec. 1.2 Purpose

The purpose of this standard is to provide the minimum requirements for
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polyethylene sheet and tubes to be used for external corrosion protection of buried
ductile-iron pipe, fittings, and appurtenances.
Sec. 1.3 Application

This standard or sections of this standard can be referenced in documents for
the purchasing and installation of polyethylene sheet or tubes for corrosion
protection of buried ductile-iron pipe, fittings, and appurtenances.
1
2 AWWA C105/A21.5-05
SECTION 2: REFERENCES
This standard references the following documents. In their latest editions, they
form a part of this standard to the extent specified within the standard. In any case
of conflict, the requirements of this standard shall prevail.
ANSI*/AWWA C600—Installation of Ductile-Iron Water Mains and Their
Appurtenances.
ASTM† D149—Standard Test Method for Dielectric Breakdown Voltage and
Dielectric Strength of Solid Electrical Insulating Materials at Commercial Power
Frequencies.
ASTM D882—Standard Test Method for Tensile Properties of Thin Plastic
Sheeting.
ASTM D1709—Standard Test Methods for Impact Resistance of Plastic Film
by the Free-Falling Dart Method.
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ASTM D1922—Standard Test Method for Propagation Tear Resistance of
Plastic Film and Thin Sheeting by Pendulum Method.
ASTM D4976—Standard Specification for Polyethylene Plastics Molding and
Extrusion Materials.
SECTION 3: DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall apply in this standard:
1. High-density cross-laminated polyethylene film: Film extruded from virgin
high-density polyethylene raw material, which is molecularly oriented by stretching.
Two single-ply layers of the film are laminated together with their orientations at 90°
to one another to form the final product.
2. Linear low-density polyethylene film: Film extruded from virgin linear
low-density polyethylene raw material.
3. Manufacturer: The party that manufactures, fabricates, or produces
materials or products.
4. Polyethylene encasement: The encasement of piping with polyethylene
film in tube or sheet form.
*American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor, New York, NY 10036.
†ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428.

POLYETHYLENE ENCASEMENT FOR DUCTILE-IRON PIPE SYSTEMS 3
5. Purchaser: The person, company, or organization that purchases any

materials or work to be performed.
SECTION 4: REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 4.1 Materials

4.1.1 Linear low-density polyethylene film. Linear low-density polyethylene
film shall be manufactured from virgin polyethylene material conforming to the
following:
4.1.1.1 Raw material requirements, per ASTM D4976
Group: 2 (Linear)
Density: 0.910 to 0.935 g/cm3
Dielectric strength: Volume resistivity, 1015 ohm-cm, minimum
4.1.1.2 Physical properties of finished film.
Tensile strength: 3,600 psi (24.8 MPa), minimum in machine and transverse
direction (ASTM D882)
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Elongation: 800 percent, minimum in machine and transverse direction

(ASTM D882)
Dielectric strength: 800 V/mil (31.8 V/µm) thickness, minimum (ASTM
D149)
Impact resistance: 600 g, minimum (ASTM D1709 Method B)
Propagation tear resistance: 2,550 gf (grams force), minimum in machine and
transverse direction (ASTM D1922)
4.1.1.3 Thickness. Linear low-density polyethylene film shall have a mini-
mum thickness of 0.008 in. (8 mil or 200 µm).
4.1.2 High-density, cross-laminated polyethylene film. High-density cross-lami-
nated polyethylene film shall be manufactured of virgin polyethylene material
conforming to the following:
4.1.2.1 Raw material requirements per ASTM D4976
Group: 2 (Linear)
High-density: 0.940 to 0.960 g/cm3
Dielectric strength: Volume resistivity, 1015 ohm-cm, minimum
4.1.2.2 Physical properties of finished film.
Tensile strength: 6,300 psi (43.4 MPa), minimum in machine and transverse

4 AWWA C105/A21.5-05
Elongation: 100 percent, minimum in machine and transverse direction

(ASTM D882)
Dielectric strength: 800 V/mil (31.8 V/µm) thickness, minimum (ASTM
D149)
Impact resistance: 800 g, minimum (ASTM D1709 Method B)
Propagation tear resistance: 250 gf, minimum in machine and transverse
4.1.2.3 Thickness. High-density cross-laminated polyethylene film shall
have a minimum thickness of 0.004 in. (4 mil or 100 µm).
4.1.3 Color. Polyethylene film may be supplied with its natural color, colors
including white and black, or black (weather-resistant) containing not less than
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2 percent carbon black with an average particle diameter of 50 nm or less. A

minimum of 2 percent of a hindered-amine ultraviolet inhibitor is required in any
natural or colored film except black film containing 2 percent or more carbon black.
Sec. 4.2 Tube Size or Sheet Width

Tube size or sheet width for each pipe diameter shall be as listed in Table 1.
Sec. 4.3 Marking

4.3.1 Marking requirements. The polyethylene film supplied shall be clearly
marked, at a minimum of every 2 ft along its length, containing the following
information:
a. Manufacturer’s name or trademark.
b. Year of manufacture.
c. ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5.
d. Minimum film thickness and material type (LLDPE or HDCLPE).
e. Applicable range of nominal pipe diameter size(s).
f. Warning—Corrosion Protection—Repair Any Damage.
4.3.2 Marking height. Letters and numerals used for marking items a
through e in Sec. 4.3.1 shall not be less than 1 in. in height. Item f in Sec. 4.3.1 shall
be not less than 1½ in. in height.
Sec. 4.4 Installation

4.4.1 General. The polyethylene encasement shall prevent contact between
the pipe and the surrounding backfill and bedding material, but it is not intended to
be a completely airtight or watertight enclosure. Lumps of clay, mud, cinders, etc., on
the pipe surface shall be removed prior to installation of the polyethylene

Table 1 Polyethylene tube and sheet sizes for push-on joint pipe*
Nominal Pipe Diameter Minimum Polyethylene Width—in. (cm)

in. (mm) Flat Tube Sheet
3 (76) 14 (36) 28 (71)
4 (102) 14 (36) 28 (71)
6 (152) 16 (41) 32 (81)
8 (203) 20 (51) 40 (102)
10 (254) 24 (61) 48 (122)
12 (305) 27 (69) 54 (137)
14 (356) 30 (76) 60 (152)
16 (406) 34 (86) 68 (173)
18 (457) 37 (94) 74 (188)
20 (508) 41 (104) 82 (208)
24 (610) 54 (137) 108 (274)
30 (762) 67 (170) 134 (340)
36 (914) 81 (206) 162 (411)
42 (1,067) 81 (206) 162 (411)
48 (1,219) 95 (241) 190 (483)
54 (1,400) 108 (274) 216 (549)
60 (1,500) 108 (274) 216 (549)
64 (1,600) 121 (307) 242 (615)
* These wrap sizes should work with most push-on joint pipe and fitting bell sizes. Where bell circumferences are larger
than the sheet sizes shown, the bell areas should be carefully wrapped with cut film sections, effectively lapping and
securing cut edges as necessary; or, alternatively, sufficiently large tube or sheet film to effectively cover these joints
should be ordered.
encasement. During installation, soil or embedment material shall not be trapped

between the pipe and the polyethylene.
The polyethylene film shall be fitted to the contour of the pipe creating a snug,
but not tight, encasement with minimum space between the polyethylene and the
pipe. Sufficient slack shall be provided in contouring to prevent stretching the
polyethylene where it bridges irregular surfaces, such as bell-spigot interfaces, bolted
joints, or fittings, and to prevent damage to the polyethylene caused by backfilling
operations. Overlaps and ends shall be secured with adhesive tape or plastic tie straps.
For installations below the water table or in areas subject to tidal actions, tube-
form polyethylene should be used with both ends thoroughly sealed with adhesive
tape or plastic tie straps at the joint overlap. Also, circumferential wraps of tape
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6 AWWA C105/A21.5-05
12-in. (305-mm) Minimum
One length of polyethylene tube for each length of pipe, overlapped at joint.
Figure 1 Installation method A
should be placed at 2-ft (0.6-m) intervals along the barrel of the pipe to minimize the
space between the polyethylene and the pipe.
4.4.2 Pipe. This standard includes three methods of installation of polyeth-
ylene encasement on pipe. Methods A and B are for use with polyethylene tubes, and
method C is for use with polyethylene sheets.
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4.4.2.1 Method A (Refer to Figure 1.). Cut polyethylene tube to a length

approximately 2 ft (0.6 m) longer than the pipe section. Slip the tube around the
pipe, centering it to provide a 12-in. (305-mm) overlap on each adjacent pipe section
and bunching it accordion-fashion lengthwise until it clears the pipe ends.
Lower the pipe into the trench and make up the pipe joint with the preceding
section of pipe. A shallow bell hole must be made at the joints to facilitate installation
of the polyethylene tube.
After assembling the pipe joint, make the overlap of the polyethylene tube. Pull
the bunched polyethylene from the preceding length of pipe, slip it over the end of
the new length of pipe, and secure it in place. Slip the end of the polyethylene from
the new pipe section over the end of the first wrap until it overlaps the joint at the
end of the preceding length of pipe. Secure the overlap in place. Take up the slack
width at the top of the pipe as shown in Figure 2 to make a snug but not tight fit
along the barrel of the pipe, securing the fold at quarter points.
Cuts, tears, punctures, or other damage to the polyethylene shall be repaired as
described in Sec. 4.4.5. Proceed with the installation of the next section of pipe in the
same manner.
4.4.2.2 Method B (Refer to Figure 3.). Cut polyethylene tube to a length
approximately 12 in. (305 mm) shorter than that of the pipe section. Slip the tube
around the pipe, centering it to provide 6 in. (150 mm) of bare pipe at each end.

Take up the slack in the tube to make a snug but not tight fit. Fold the excess back over the top of the
pipe, securing the fold at the quarter points along the length of the pipe.
Figure 2 Slack-reduction procedure for installation methods A and B
Separate pieces of polyethylene tube for barrel of pipe and polyethylene tube or sheet for joints. The
polyethylene over joints overlaps tube encasing barrel. (Method B is not recommended for bolted-type
joints unless an additional layer of polyethylene is provided over the joint area as in methods A and C.)
Figure 3 Installation method B
Take up the slack width at the top of the pipe as shown in Figure 2 to make a snug
but not tight fit along the barrel of the pipe, securing the fold at quarter points.
Secure the ends as described in Sec. 4.4.1.
Before making up a joint, slip a 3-ft (0.9-m) length of polyethylene tube over
the end of the preceding pipe section, bunching it accordion-fashion lengthwise.
Alternatively, place a 3-ft (0.9-m) length of polyethylene sheet in the trench under
the joint to be made. After completing the joint, pull the 3-ft (0.9-m) length of
polyethylene over or around the joint, overlapping the polyethylene previously
installed on each adjacent section of pipe by at least 12 in. (305 mm). Make each end
snug and secure as described in Sec. 4.4.1. A shallow bell hole is necessary and shall
be made at joints to facilitate the installation of the polyethylene tube or sheet.
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8 AWWA C105/A21.5-05
Pipe completely wrapped with flat polyethylene sheet.
Figure 4 Installation method C

described in Sec. 4.4.5. Proceed with installation of the next section of pipe in the
same manner.
4.4.2.3 Method C (Refer to Figure 4.). Cut polyethylene sheet to a length
approximately 2 ft (0.6 m) longer than that of the pipe section. Center the cut length
to provide a 12-in. (305-mm) overlap on each adjacent pipe section, bunching it
until it clears the pipe ends. Wrap the polyethylene around the pipe so that it
circumferentially overlaps the top quadrant of the pipe. Secure the cut edge of
polyethylene sheet at intervals of approximately 3 ft (0.9 m).
Lower the wrapped pipe into the trench and make up the pipe joint with the
preceding section of pipe. A shallow bell hole is necessary and shall be made at the
joints to facilitate installation of the polyethylene. After completing the joint, make
the overlap and secure the ends as described in Sec. 4.4.1.
described in Sec. 4.4.5. Proceed with installation of the next section of pipe in the
same manner.
4.4.3 Pipe-shaped appurtenances. Bends, reducers, offsets, and other pipe-
shaped appurtenances shall be covered with polyethylene in the same manner as the
pipe.
4.4.4 Odd-shaped appurtenances. When it is not practical to wrap valves,
tees, crosses, and other odd-shaped pieces in a tube, wrap with a flat sheet or split
length of polyethylene tube by passing the sheet under the appurtenance and
bringing the sheet around the body. Make seams by bringing the edges of the
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polyethylene sheet together, folding them over twice, and taping them. Handle width
and overlaps at joints as described in Sec. 4.4.2.1. Tape the polyethylene securely in
place at the valve stem and other penetrations.
4.4.5 Repairs. Repair cuts, tears, punctures, or damage to polyethylene with
adhesive tape or with a short length of polyethylene sheet, or with a tube cut open,
wrapped around the pipe to cover the damaged area, and secured in place.
4.4.6 Openings in encasement. Provide openings for branches, service taps,
blowoffs, air valves, and similar appurtenances by cutting an ‘X’ in the polyethylene
and temporarily folding back the film. After the appurtenance is installed, tape the
slack securely to the appurtenance, and repair the cut and any other damaged areas
in the polyethylene with tape. Direct service taps may also be made through the
polyethylene, with any resulting damaged areas being repaired as described
previously. To make direct service taps, apply two or three wraps of adhesive tape
completely around the polyethylene-encased pipe to cover the area where the tapping
machine and chain will be mounted. This method minimizes possible damage to the
polyethylene during the direct-tapping procedure. After the tapping machine is
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mounted, the corporation stop is installed directly through the tape and polyethylene
as shown in Figure 5. This method is very effective in eliminating damage to the
polyethylene encasement caused by the tapping machine and chain during the
Figure 5 Preferred method for making direct service taps on polyethylene-encased iron pipe

10 AWWA C105/A21.5-05
tapping operation. After the direct tap is completed, the entire circumferential area
shall be closely inspected for damage and repaired if needed.
4.4.7 Junctions between wrapped and unwrapped pipe. Where polyethylene-
wrapped pipe joins an adjacent pipe that is not wrapped, extend the polyethylene
wrap to cover the adjacent pipe for a distance of at least 3 ft (0.9 m). Secure the end
with circumferential turns of adhesive tape.
Service lines of dissimilar metals shall be wrapped with polyethylene or a
suitable dielectric tape for a minimum clear distance of 3 ft (0.9 m) away from the
ductile-iron pipe.
4.4.8 Backfill for polyethylene-wrapped pipe. Use the same backfill material as
that specified for pipe without polyethylene wrap, exercising care to prevent damage
to the polyethylene wrapping when placing backfill. Backfill material shall be free
from cinders, refuse, boulders, rocks, stones, or other material that could damage the
polyethylene. In general, backfilling practice should be in accordance with ANSI/
AWWA C600.
SECTION 5: VERIFICATION
Sec. 5.1 Inspection and Affidavit of Compliance

5.1.1 Quality control and inspection. The manufacturer shall establish the
necessary quality control and inspection practice to ensure compliance with this
standard.
5.1.2 Affidavit of compliance. The manufacturer shall, if requested by the
purchaser, provide a sworn statement that the polyethylene encasement provided
complies with the requirements of this standard.
5.1.3 Freedom from defects. All polyethylene film shall be clean, sound, and
without defects that could impair service.
SECTION 6: DELIVERY
This standard has no applicable information for this section.
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APPENDIX A
Notes on Procedures for Soil Survey Tests and Observations and Their
Interpretation to Determine Whether Polyethylene Encasement Should Be Used
This appendix is for information only and is not a part of ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.5.
In the appraisal of soil and other conditions that affect the corrosion rate of
ductile-iron pipe,* many factors must always be considered. They are outlined here.
A method of evaluating and interpreting each factor and a method of weighing each
factor to determine whether polyethylene encasement should be used are subse-
quently described.
These methods should be employed only by qualified personnel who are
experienced in soil analysis and evaluation of conditions potentially corrosive to
ductile-iron pipe. Factors such as moisture content, soil temperature, location of soil
sample with respect to pipe, time between removal of soil sample and testing, and
other factors can significantly affect the soil-test evaluation. For example, certain soil
environments are considered to be potentially corrosive to ductile-iron pipe and,
therefore, do not require evaluation to determine the need for corrosion protection.
These environments include, but are not limited to, coal, cinders, muck, peat, mine
wastes, and landfill areas high in foreign materials. Existing installations and the
potential for stray direct-current corrosion should also be a part of the evaluation.
Sec. A.1 Soil Survey Tests and Observations

Factors to consider when determining the need for polyethylene encasement of
pipe are outlined below. A discussion of each point follows the outline.
1. Earth resistivity.
a. Four-pin
b. Single-probe
c. Saturated-sample (soil-box)
2. pH.
3. Oxidation-reduction (redox) potential.
4. Sulfides.
a. Azide (qualitative)
*NOTE: The information contained in Appendix A is also applicable to gray-iron pipe. Although gray-
iron pipe is no longer produced in the United States, many miles of this product remain in service.
11
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12 AWWA C105/A21.5-05
5. Moisture content (relative).

a. Prevalence
6. Soil description.
a. Particle size
b. Uniformity
c. Type
d. Color
7. Potential stray direct current.
a. Nearby cathodic-protection-utilizing rectifiers
b. Railroads (electric)
c. Industrial equipment, including welding equipment
d. Mine transportation equipment
8. Experience with existing installations in the area.
1. Earth resistivity. There are three methods for determining earth resistiv-
ity: four-pin, single-probe, and soil-box. In the field, a four-pin determination should
be made with pins spaced at approximate pipe depth. This method yields an average
of resistivity from the surface to a depth equal to pin spacing. However, results are
sometimes difficult to interpret where dry topsoil is underlain with wetter soils and
where soil types vary with depth. The Wenner configuration is used with a
soil-resistance meter, which is available with varying ranges of resistance. For
all-around use, a meter with a capacity of up to 104 ohms is suggested, because it
permits both field and laboratory testing of most soils.
Because of this difficulty in interpretation, the same meter may be used with a
single probe that yields resistivity at the point of the probe. A boring is made into the
subsoil allowing the probe to be pushed into the soil at the desired depth.
Because the soil may not be typically wet, a sample should be removed for
saturated resistivity determination. This may be accomplished with a laboratory unit
that permits the introduction of water to saturation, therefore simulating saturated
field conditions. The unit is used in conjunction with a soil-resistance meter.
The interpretation of the results of resistivity measurements is extremely
important. A determination based on a four-pin reading with dry topsoil averaged with
wetter subsoil would probably be inaccurate. Only by determining the resistivity in soil
at pipe depth can an accurate interpretation be made. Also, the local situation should
be determined concerning groundwater table, the presence of shallow groundwater, and
the approximate percentage of time the soil is likely to be water saturated.
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With ductile-iron pipe, corrosion protection provided by products of corrosion

is enhanced if there are dry periods during each year. Dry periods seem to permit
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hardening, or toughening, of the corrosion scale or products, which become

impervious and serve as better insulators.
In making field determinations of resistivity, temperature is important. The
resistivity increases as the temperature decreases. As the water in the soil approaches
freezing, resistivity increases greatly and, therefore, is not reliable. Field determina-
tions under frozen soil conditions should be avoided. Reliable results under these
conditions can be obtained only by the collection of suitable subsoil samples for
analysis in laboratory conditions at a proper temperature.
Interpretation of resistivity data. Because of the wide variance in results
obtained using the methods described, it is difficult to interpret any single reading
without knowing which method was used to obtain the reading. The interpretation
should be based on the lowest reading obtained, with consideration to other
conditions, such as typical moisture content of the soil. Because of the lack of exact
correlation between experiences and resistivity, it is necessary to assign ranges of
resistivity rather than specific numbers. Table A.1 shows the points assigned to
various ranges of resistivity. These points, when considered along with points
assigned to other soil characteristics (also shown in Table A.1), are significant.
2. pH. In the pH range of 0.0 to 4.0, soil serves well as an electrolyte. In the
pH range of 6.5 to 7.5, soil conditions are optimum for sulfate reduction. In the pH
range of 8.5 to 14.0, soils are generally high in dissolved salts, yielding a low soil
resistivity.
In testing pH, a combination pH electrode is pushed into the soil sample, and
a direct reading is made, following suitable temperature setting on the instrument.
Normal procedures are followed for standardization.
3. Oxidation-reduction (redox) potential. The redox potential of a soil is
significant, because the most common sulfate-reducing bacteria can live only in
anaerobic conditions. A redox potential greater than +100 mV demonstrates that the
soil is sufficiently aerated, preventing sulfate reducers from forming. Potentials of 0 to
+100 mV may or may not indicate anaerobic conditions; however, a negative redox
potential definitely indicates the anaerobic conditions in which sulfate reducers thrive.
The redox test is performed using a pH/mV meter with a combination ORP electrode
inserted into the soil sample. It should be noted that soil samples removed from a
boring or excavation can undergo a change in redox potential when exposed to air.

14 AWWA C105/A21.5-05
Table A.1 Soil-test evaluation
Soil Characteristics Based on Samples Taken Down to Pipe Depth Points*

Resistivity—ohm-cm (based on water-saturated soil box):
<1,500.............................................................................................................. 10
≥1,500–1,800 .................................................................................................. 8
>1,800–2,100................................................................................................... 5
>2,100–2,500................................................................................................... 2
>2,500–3,000................................................................................................... 1
>3,000.............................................................................................................. 0
pH:
0–2................................................................................................................... 5
2–4................................................................................................................... 3
4–6.5................................................................................................................ 0
6.5–7.5............................................................................................................. 0.†
7.5–8.5............................................................................................................. 0
>8.5.................................................................................................................. 3
Redox potential:
> +100 mV ...................................................................................................... 0
+50 to +100 mV.............................................................................................. 3.5
0 to +50 mV .................................................................................................... 4
Negative ........................................................................................................... 5
Sulfides:
Positive............................................................................................................. 3.5
Trace ................................................................................................................ 2
Negative ........................................................................................................... 0
Moisture:
Poor drainage, continuously wet ...................................................................... 2
Fair drainage, generally moist........................................................................... 1
Good drainage, generally dry ........................................................................... 0
*Ten points indicates that soil is corrosive to ductile-iron pipe; protection is needed.
†If sulfides are present and low or negative redox-potential results are obtained, add three points for this range.
These samples should be tested immediately after the excavation. Heavy clays, muck,
and organic soils are often anaerobic. For this reason, these soils should be regarded as
potentially corrosive.
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4. Sulfides. The sulfide determination is recommended because of its field

expediency. A positive sulfide reaction reveals a potential problem caused by
sulfate-reducing bacteria. The sodium azide–iodine qualitative test is used to identify

sulfides. In this determination, a solution of 3 percent sodium azide in a 0.1N iodine

solution is introduced into a test tube containing a sample of the soil. Sulfides
catalyze the reaction between sodium azide and iodine, resulting in nitrogen. If
strong bubbling or foaming results, sulfides are present, as are sulfate-reducing
bacteria. If very slight bubbling is noted, sulfides are probably present in small
concentration, and the result is noted as a trace.
--``,`,,``,,`,,```,`,,``,,,``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
5. Moisture content. Because prevailing moisture content is extremely impor-
tant to soil corrosion, this condition must be determined. It is not necessary that the
specific moisture content of a soil sample be determined, because the content probably
varies throughout the year. However, local authorities should observe the soil moisture
conditions many times during the year. (Although mentioned in item 1, Earth
resistivity, this variability factor is reiterated to emphasize the importance of notation.)
6. Soil description. In each investigation, soil types should be completely
described. The description should include color and physical characteristics, such as
particle size, plasticity, friability, and uniformity. Observation and testing will reveal
whether the soil is high in organic content; this should be noted. In a given area,
corrosivity may often be reflected in certain types and colors of soil. This information
is valuable for future investigations or for determining suspect soils.
Soil uniformity is important because of the possible development of local
corrosion cells caused by the difference in potential, such as different soil types
contacting the pipe. The same is true for uniformity of aeration. If one segment of
soil contains more oxygen than a neighboring segment, a corrosion cell can develop
from the difference in potential. This cell is known as a differential aeration cell.
There are several basic types of soils that should be noted in the soil description:
sand, loam, silt, clay, and muck. In addition, unusual soils, such as peat or soils high
in foreign material, should be noted.
7. Potential stray direct current. Soil surveys should consider the possibility of
stray direct current that might interfere with the ductile-iron-pipe installation. The
widespread use of rectifiers and ground beds for cathodic protection of underground
structures has increased the potential of stray direct current. The proximity of these
cathodic protection systems should be noted. Among other potential sources of stray
direct current are electric railways, industrial equipment (including welding
equipment), and mine-transportation equipment.
Normally, the amount of stray current influence from cathodic protection
systems on an electrically discontinuous ductile-iron pipeline will be negligible. It is

16 AWWA C105/A21.5-05
not detrimental to the expected life of the system, unless the pipeline comes close to
an impressed-current, cathodic-protection anode bed where the current density is
high. When ductile iron pipelines are exposed to high-density stray current
environments, the pipeline should be rerouted or the anode bed relocated. If neither
of these options is feasible, the ductile iron pipe in this area should be electrically
bonded together, electrically isolated from adjacent pipe, polyethylene encased, and
appropriate test leads and “current drain” installed.
8. Experience with existing installations. The best information on soil corro-
sivity with respect to ductile-iron pipe results from experience with this material in
the area under investigation. Every effort should be made to acquire these data by
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questioning local officials and, if possible, by observing existing installations.
Sec. A.2 Soil-Test Evaluation

When the soil-test procedures described in this standard are employed, the
following tests are used in evaluating corrosivity of the soil: resistivity, pH, redox
potential, sulfides, and moisture. For each of these tests, results are categorized
according to their contribution to corrosivity. Point values are assigned, based on
experience with ductile-iron pipe (see Table A.1). When results of these five tests/
observations are available, the assigned points are totaled. If the sum is equal to 10 or
more, the soil is corrosive to ductile-iron pipe, and protection against exterior
corrosion should be provided. This system of evaluation is limited to soil corrosion
and does not include consideration of stray direct current.
General. These notes address only ductile-iron pipe, the soil environment in
which the pipe will serve, and the methods of determining a need for polyethylene
encasement.
Sec. A.3 Uniquely Severe Environments

Research has shown that polyethylene encasement alone is a viable corrosion
protection system for ductile- and gray-iron pipe in most environments. However,
other options should be considered for environments where the following character-
istics co-exist: (1) soil resistivity ≤500 ohm-cm; (2) anaerobic conditions in which
sulfate-reducing bacteria thrive (neutral pH [6.5 to 7.5], low or negative redox
potential [negative to +100 mV], and the presence of sulfides [positive or trace]); and
(3) where the water table is intermittently or continually above the invert of the pipe.

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--``,`,,``,,`,,```,`,,``,,,``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy to improve the quality and
supply of water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in the
world. AWWA advances public health, safety, and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum of the
entire water community. Through our collective strength we become better stewards of water for the greatest
good of the people and the environment.
1P-3.6M-43105-11/05-CM Printed on recycled paper.


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ANSI/AWWA C105/A21.

The Authoritative Resource on Safe WaterSM

Effective date: Dec. 1, 2005.

6666 West Quincy Avenue Advocacy

Copyright American Water Works Association

American National Standard

Science and Technology

Copyright © 2005 by American Water Works Association

Troy F. Stroud, Chair

General Interest Members

K.W. Henderson, Malcolm Pirnie Inc., White Plains, N.Y. (AWWA)

D.R. Charko, McWane, Inc., Birmingham, Ala. (AWWA)

K.A. Alms, Missouri–American Water Company, St. Louis, Mo. (AWWA)

John R. Plattsmier, Chair

General Interest Members

K.W. Henderson, Malcolm Pirnie Inc., White Plains, N.Y. (AWWA)

Michael Lundstrom, Eastland, Texas (AWWA)

D.T. Bradley, Oak Lodge Water District, Milwaukie, Ore. (AWWA)

Copyright American Water Works Association

Copyright American Water Works Association

Copyright American Water Works Association

Copyright American Water Works Association

II. Special Issues.

III. Use of This Standard. It is the responsibility of the user of an AWWA

This page intentionally blank.

Copyright American Water Works Association

Sec. 1.1 Scope

Sec. 1.2 Purpose

Sec. 1.3 Application

Copyright American Water Works Association

5. Purchaser: The person, company, or organization that purchases any

Sec. 4.1 Materials

Elongation: 800 percent, minimum in machine and transverse direction

Copyright American Water Works Association

Elongation: 100 percent, minimum in machine and transverse direction

2 percent carbon black with an average particle diameter of 50 nm or less. A

Sec. 4.2 Tube Size or Sheet Width

Sec. 4.3 Marking

Sec. 4.4 Installation

Copyright American Water Works Association

Nominal Pipe Diameter Minimum Polyethylene Width—in. (cm)

encasement. During installation, soil or embedment material shall not be trapped

Copyright American Water Works Association

12-in. (305-mm) Minimum

Figure 1 Installation method A

4.4.2.1 Method A (Refer to Figure 1.). Cut polyethylene tube to a length

Copyright American Water Works Association

Figure 2 Slack-reduction procedure for installation methods A and B

12-in. (305-mm) Minimum

Figure 3 Installation method B

Copyright American Water Works Association

12-in. (305-mm) Minimum

Pipe completely wrapped with flat polyethylene sheet.

Figure 4 Installation method C

Cuts, tears, punctures, or other damage to the polyethylene shall be repaired as

Copyright American Water Works Association

Copyright American Water Works Association

Sec. 5.1 Inspection and Affidavit of Compliance