PVC Self-Tapping Saddle Tees For Use On PVC Pipe: Awwa Standard

American Water Works Association
ANSI/AWWA C908-97
(First Edition)
AWWA STANDARD
FOR
PVC SELF-TAPPING SADDLE TEES
FOR USE ON PVC PIPE
Effective date: Aug. 1, 1997.

First edition approved by AWWA Board of Directors Feb. 2, 1997.
Approved by American National Standards Institute May 9, 1997.
AMERICAN WATER WORKS ASSOCIATION

6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80235
Copyright (C) 1998 American Water Works Association, All Rights Reserved.
AWWA Standard
This document is an American Water Works Association (AWWA) standard. It is not a specification.
AWWA standards describe minimum requirements and do not contain all of the engineering and
administrative information normally contained in specifications. The AWWA standards usually
contain options that must be evaluated by the user of the standard. Until each optional feature is
specified by the user, the product or service is not fully defined. AWWA publication of a standard
does not constitute endorsement of any product or product type, nor does AWWA test, certify, or
approve any product. The use of AWWA standards is entirely voluntary. AWWA standards are
intended to represent a consensus of the water supply industry that the product described will
provide satisfactory service. When AWWA revises or withdraws this standard, an official notice of
action will be placed on the first page of the classified advertising section of Journal AWWA. The
action becomes effective on the first day of the month following the month of Journal AWWA
publication of the official notice.
American National Standard

An American National Standard implies a consensus of those substantially concerned with its scope
and provisions. An American National Standard is intended as a guide to aid the manufacturer, the
consumer, and the general public. The existence of an American National Standard does not in any
respect preclude anyone, whether that person has approved the standard or not, from manufactur-
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CAUTION NOTICE: The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) approval date on the front
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Copyright © 1997 by American Water Works Association

Printed in USA
ii
Committee Personnel
The AWWA Standards Subcommittee on PVC Self-Tapping Saddle Tees, which
developed this standard, had the following personnel:
Eldon Morain, Chair

T.L. Chance M.B. Harrington
A.T. Davies Patrick Hopkins
D.L. Eckstein J.H. Lee
H.R. Fraser E.L. Melear
W.S. Gentry James Van Houtte
The AWWA Standards Committee on PVC Pressure Pipe and Fittings, which
reviewed and approved this standard, had the following personnel at the time of
approval:
Thomas L. Chance, Chair

Robert P. Walker, Vice-Chair
Consumer Members
K.F. Cerotsky, Springfield Utility Board, Springfield, Ore. (AWWA)

A.T. Davies, Public Works, Edmonton, Alta. (AWWA)
J.L. Diebel,* Council Liaison, Denver Water Department, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
P.L Eckley, Salem Public Works Department, Salem, Ore. (AWWA)
B.H. Ellis,† FERA, Houston, Texas (AWWA)
R.L. Heino,† Public Works, Edmonton, Alta. (AWWA)
L.A. Kinney Jr., Bureau of Reclamation, Denver, Colo. (USBR)
J.L. May, City of Garland Water Utilities, Garland, Texas (AWWA)
Mike Rickman, Dallas Water Utilities, Dallas, Texas (AWWA)
L.A. Wettering, Green Bay, Wis. (AWWA)
D.R. Young, Florida Cities Water Company, Poinciana, Fla. (AWWA)
General Interest Members
K.M. Bell, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, Ill. (UL)

J.P. Castronovo, CH2M Hill Inc., Gainesville, Fla. (AWWA)
T.L. Chance, Camp, Dresser & McKee Inc., Houston, Texas (AWWA)
M.J. Devine, Whitman & Howard Inc., Norwell, Mass. (NEWWA)
R.J. Holme, Proctor & Redfern Ltd., Don Mills, Ont. (AWWA)
J.A. Lee, Dayton & Knight Ltd., North Vancouver, B.C. (AWWA)
S.A. McKelvie, P.B.G. & S Inc., Glastonbury, Conn. (AWWA)
E.L. Melear, Boyle Engineering Corporation, Orlando, Fla. (AWWA)
* Liaison, nonvoting
† Alternate
iii
E.W. Misichko,* Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, Ill. (UL)
J.R. Paschal, NSF International, Ann Arbor, Mich. (NSF)
J.G. Richard Jr., Consulting Engineer, Baton Rouge, La. (AWWA)
J.K. Snyder, Snyder Environmental Engineering Associates, Audubon, Pa. (AWWA)
J.H. Wilber,† Standards Engineer Liaison, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
Producer Members
O.J. Barber, Capco Pipe Company Inc., Van Buren, Ark. (AWWA)
Marie Boitz, J-M Manufacturing Company Inc., Livingston, N.J. (UNI-BELL)
Claude Corcos,* J-M Manufacturing Company Inc., Livingston, N.J. (AWWA)
D.L. Eckstein,* Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association, Dallas, Texas (UNI-BELL)
S.B. Gross, Certainteed Corporation, Blue Bell, Pa. (AWWA)
D.W. Harrington, Harrington Corporation, Lynchburg, Va. (AWWA)
J.F. Houle, Pacific Western Extruded Plastics Company, Eugene, Ore. (UNI-BELL)
P.H. Luckett, Multi Fittings USA, Austin, Texas (AWWA)
J.H. Miller, JHM Enterprises, Woodbridge, Ont. (AWWA)
Veso Sobot, IPEX Inc., Mississauga, Ont. (UNI-BELL)
R.P. Walker, Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association, South Lake, Texas (UNI-BELL)
* Alternate
† Liaison, nonvoting
iv
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 Requirements
I Introduction........................................ vii 4.1 Permeation ............................................ 3
I.A Background......................................... vii 4.2 Installation............................................ 4
I.B History ................................................ vii 4.3 Materials ............................................... 4
I.C Acceptance .......................................... vii 4.4 Requirements........................................ 4
II Special Issues .................................... viii 5 Verification
II.A Advisory Information on
5.1 Test Methods ........................................ 7
Application of Standard ................ viii
5.2 Inspection .............................................. 9
III Use of This Standard........................... ix
III.A Purchaser Options and 6 Delivery
Alternatives....................................... ix 6.1 Marking................................................. 9
III.B Modification to Standard..................... ix 6.2 Packaging and Shipping ...................... 9
IV Major Revisions.................................... ix 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance........................ 9
V Comments............................................. ix
Figure
Standard
1 Self-Tapping Saddle Tee With
1 General Cutaway View.................................. vii
1.1 Scope ...................................................... 1
1.2 Purpose .................................................. 1 Tables
1.3 Application............................................. 1
1 ANSI/AWWA C900 Pipe Dimensions
2 References ........................................... 1 (CIOD) ................................................ 4
2 IPS PVC Pipe Dimensions ................... 5
3 Definitions........................................... 2
v
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Foreword
This foreword is for information only and is not a part of AWWA C908-97.
I. Introduction.
I.A. Background. For the past 40 years, the water industry has been using
polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pressure pipe for water main lines. The method for
connecting service taps to the PVC mains has been an adaptation of the methods of
tapping metallic mains.
The PVC self-tapping saddle tees (saddles) were developed approximately 30
years ago, specifically designed to supply the need for tapping PVC mains in a
manner suitable for the PVC materials used. An example of a self-tapping saddle tee
is shown in Figure 1.
I.B. History. In 1989, AWWA Standards Council approved a project to develop
a standard for saddles, thereby initiating development of this first edition of this
standard.
I.C. Acceptance. In May 1985, the US Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) entered into a cooperative agreement with a consortium led by NSF
International (NSF) to develop voluntary third-party consensus standards and a
certification program for all direct and indirect drinking water additives. Other
members of the original consortium included the American Water Works Association
Research Foundation (AWWARF) and the Conference of State Health and Environ-
mental Managers (COSHEM). The American Water Works Association (AWWA) and
the Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA) joined later.
Internal Tapping Mechanism
Saddle Top Outlet
Service Line
Inlet
Sealing Gasket
Saddle Bottom
Water Main
Figure 1 Self-tapping saddle tee with cutaway view
vii
In the United States, authority to regulate products for use in, or in contact with,
drinking water rests with individual states.* Local agencies may choose to impose
requirements more stringent than those required by the state. To evaluate the health
effects of products and drinking water additives from such products, state and local
agencies may use various references, including
1. An advisory program formerly administered by USEPA, Office of Drinking
Water, discontinued on Apr. 7, 1990.
2. Specific policies of the state or local agency.
3. Two standards developed under the direction of NSF, ANSI†/NSF‡ 60,
Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals—Health Effects, and ANSI/NSF 61, Drinking
Water System Components—Health Effects.
4. Other references, including AWWA standards, Food Chemicals Codex, Water
Chemicals Codex,§ and other standards considered appropriate by the state or local
agency.
Various certification organizations may be involved in certifying products in
accordance with ANSI/NSF 61. Individual states or local agencies have authority to
accept or accredit certification organizations within their jurisdiction. Accreditation
of certification organizations may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
Appendix A, “Toxicology Review and Evaluation Procedures,” to ANSI/NSF 61
does not stipulate a maximum allowable level (MAL) of a contaminant for substances
not regulated by a USEPA final maximum contaminant level (MCL). The MALs of an
unspecified list of “unregulated contaminants” are based on toxicity testing
guidelines (noncarcinogens) and risk characterization methodology (carcinogens). Use
of Appendix A procedures may not always be identical, depending on the certifier.
AWWA C908-97 does not address additives requirements. Thus, users of this
standard should consult the appropriate state or local agency having jurisdiction in
order to
1. Determine additives requirements including applicable standards.
2. Determine the status of certifications by all parties offering to certify
products for contact with, or treatment of, drinking water.
3. Determine current information on product certification.
II. Special Issues.
II.A. Advisory Information on Application of Standard. This standard per-
tains to saddles for use with PVC water pipes conforming to outside diameter
dimensions of cast iron outside diameter (CIOD) pipe 4 in. through 8 in. (100 mm
through 200 mm) as described in AWWA C900 and iron-pipe-size (IPS) outside
diameter 1 1⁄4 in. through 8 in. (32 mm through 200 mm) PVC water pipe.
NOTE: Even though AWWA Standard C900 covers 4 in. through 8 in. PVC
pressure class pipes in CIOD, there is no AWWA standard covering 1 1⁄4 in. through
8 in. IPS pipes that are pressure rated (ASTM D2241) nor schedule thicknesses
* Persons in Canada, Mexico, and non-North American countries should contact the
appropriate authority having jurisdiction.
† American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.
‡ NSF International, 3475 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48106.
§ Both publications available from National Academy of Sciences, 2102 Constitution Ave.
N.W., Washington, DC 20418.
viii
(ASTM D1785) that are in common use for service lines and branches. Therefore, this
standard provides provisions to accommodate the 1 1⁄4 in. through 8 in. IPS pipe.
III. Use of This Standard. AWWA has no responsibility for the suitability or
compatibility of the provisions of this standard to any intended application by any
user. Accordingly, each user of this standard is responsible for determining that the
standard’s provisions are suitable for and compatible with that user’s intended
application.
III.A. Purchaser Options and Alternatives. The following items should be cov-
ered in the purchaser’s specifications:
1. Standard used—that is, ANSI/AWWA C908, Standard for PVC Self-Tapping
Saddle Tees For Use on PVC Pipe, of latest revision.
2. Nominal size and OD base of pipe upon which to install the self-tapping
saddle tee (e.g., 6-in. CIOD or 6-in. IPS) (Sec. 4.4.2).
3. Nominal size and type of outlet to be used (e.g., 3⁄4 in. copper tube size (CTS)
compression) (Sec. 4.4.6).
4. If an affidavit of compliance is required (Sec. 6.3).
5. If the purchaser will require plant inspection (Sec. 5.2.2).
III.B. Modification to Standard. Any modification of the provisions, defini-
tions, or terminology in this standard must be provided in the purchaser’s
specifications.
IV. Major Revisions. This is the first edition of this standard.
V. Comments. If you have any comments or questions about this standard,
please call the AWWA Standards and Materials Development Department, (303)
794-7711 ext. 6283, FAX (303) 795-1440, or write to the department at 6666 W.
Quincy Ave., Denver, CO 80235.
ix
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American Water Works Association
ANSI/AWWA C908-97
(First Edition)
AWWA STANDARD FOR
PVC SELF-TAPPING SADDLE TEES

FOR USE ON PVC PIPE
SECTION 1: GENERAL
Sec. 1.1 Scope
This standard covers self-tapping saddle tees, hereafter referred to as self-
tapping saddle(s), molded from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material (ASTM D1784). The
self-tapping saddles are for use with PVC water pipe described in ANSI/AWWA C900,
having cast iron outside diameters (CIOD) and are for self-tapping saddles designed
for iron pipe size (IPS-OD) PVC water pipes in nominal sizes 1 1⁄4 in. through 8 in. (32
mm through 200 mm).
Sec. 1.2 Purpose
The purpose of this standard is to provide purchasers, manufacturers, and
constructors with minimum capabilities, characteristics, and properties that a saddle
must pass at the time of manufacture.
Sec. 1.3 Application
The saddles covered by this standard are intended for use in tapping 4 in.
through 8 in. (100 mm through 200 mm) PVC pipe manufactured in accordance with
ANSI/AWWA C900 and for IPS-OD PVC water pipes in nominal sizes 1 1⁄4 in. through
8 in. (32 mm through 200 mm).
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.
1
2 AWWA C908-97
ANSI B1.20—American National Standard For Pipe Threads, General Purpose

(Inch).
ASTM* D1598—Standard Test Method for Time-To-Failure of Plastic Pipe
Under Constant Internal Pressure.
ASTM D1599—Standard Test Method for Short-Time Hydraulic Failure Pres-
sure of Plastic Pipe, Tubing, and Fittings.
ANSI/ASTM D1784—Standard Specification for Rigid Poly (Vinyl Chloride)
(PVC) Compounds and Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Compounds.
ASTM D1785—Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic
Pipe, Schedules 40, 80, and 120.
ASTM D2122—Standard Test Method for Determining Dimensions of Thermo-
plastic Pipe and Fittings.
ASTM D2241—Standard Specification for Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Pres-
sure-Rated Pipe (SDR-Series).
ASTM D2837—Standard Test Method for Obtaining Hydrostatic Design Basis
for Thermoplastic Pipe Materials.
ASTM F477—Standard Specification for Elastomeric Seals (Gaskets) for Joining
PVC Pipe.
ASTM F610—Standard Test Method for Evaluating the Quality of Molded Poly
(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings by the Heat Reversion Technique.
ANSI†/AWWA C900—Standard for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Pipe,
4 In. Through 12 In., for Water Distribution.
ANSI/AWWA C907—Standard for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Fittings
for Water—4 In. Through 8 In. (100 mm Through 200 mm).
AWWA Manual M23—PVC Pipe, Design and Installation.
SECTION 3: DEFINITIONS
The following definitions shall apply in this standard:
1. Adapter: A fitting used to connect pipe or tubing sections or other fittings
that may have different threads or materials.
2. Compression outlet: That portion of a self-tapping saddle(s) used to connect
the service pipe to the outlet of the self-tapping saddle(s) by mechanically
compressing a seal of elastomeric material.
3. Dimension ratio (DR): The DR is determined by dividing the average
outside diameter (OD) of the pipe by its minimum wall thickness and rounding off
the dimensionless quotient, when necessary, to the nearest whole number.
4. Factor of safety: A number by which the long-term pressure strength
(LTPS) of a self-tapping saddle is divided to determine what proportion of the LTPS
can be used in the calculation of its pressure class or pressure rating.
5. Internal tapping mechanism: A device that is a part of the self-tapping tee
and used to perforate the wall of the main or shut off the flow of water to the service
line.
*American Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr Harbor Dr., West Conshohocken, PA
19428-2959.
†American National Standards Institute, 11 W. 42nd St., New York, NY 10036.
PVC SELF-TAPPING SADDLE TEES 3
6. Long-term pressure strength (LTPS): The long-term, hydrostatic, internal

pressure strength in pounds per square inch (psi) of a specific configuration and size
of injection-molded self-tapping saddle for water service at a specific maximum
operating temperature as determined by hydrostatic tests and detailed evaluation
procedures in accordance with ASTM D2837, with internal pressure substituted for
hoop stress. The LTPS of self-tapping saddles in this standard is 615 psi (4,240 kPa)
at 73.4°F (23°C).
7. Manufacturer: The party that manufactures, fabricates, or produces
materials or products.
8. Mechanical self-tapping saddle tee: A self-tapping saddle and tee unit used
to mechanically connect the water main to a service lateral or pipe incorporating an
internal self-tapping mechanism to be used once only on its first application.
9. Polyvinyl chloride: Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, refers to thermoplastic
compounds prepared by combining PVC resin with modifiers, stabilizers, lubricants,
and pigments to attain desirable properties for processing, property control, and
coloring.
10. Pressure class: The working-pressure rating of a specific pipe or fitting for
water service at a maximum operating temperature of 73.4°F (23°C).
11. Pressure rating: The pressure rating of a specific pipe or fitting for water
service at a maximum operating temperature of 73.4°F (23°C) determined without an
allowance for surge pressure and with a safety factor of 2.
12. Purchaser: The person, company, or organization that purchases any
materials or work to be performed.
13. Surge pressure: The maximum pressure increase above the working
pressure (sometimes called “water hammer”) that is anticipated in the pipe system as
a result of change in the velocity of the water column when valves are operated or
when pumps are started or stopped.
14. Total system pressure: The sum of working pressure plus surge pressure.
15. Working pressure: The maximum sustained operating pressure under
steady state conditions that is anticipated for the pipeline being designed. Transient
surge pressures associated with changing flow velocities are not included in working
pressure.
SECTION 4: REQUIREMENTS
Sec. 4.1 Permeation
The selection of materials is critical for water service and distribution piping in
locations where there is likelihood the pipe will be exposed to significant concentra-
tions of pollutants comprised of low molecular weight petroleum products or organic
solvents or their vapors. Research has documented that pipe materials such as
polyethylene, polybutylene, polyvinyl chloride, and asbestos cement, and elastomers,
such as used in jointing gaskets and packing glands, may be subject to permeation by
lower molecular weight organic solvents or petroleum products. If a water pipe must
pass through such a contaminated area or an area subject to contamination, consult
with the manufacturer regarding permeation of pipe walls, jointing materials, and so
forth, before selecting materials for use in that area.
4 AWWA C908-97
Sec. 4.2 Installation

The manufacturer shall make available to the purchaser installation instruc-
tions to ensure that self-tapping saddles provide proper performance.
Sec. 4.3 Materials
4.3.1 Basic materials.
4.3.1.1 Self-tapping saddle body components. The plastic components of sad-
dles shall be made from virgin homopolymer compounds capable of satisfying the
long-term performance requirements of Sec. 4.4.3 and the requirements for potable
water service (Sec. I.C of the foreword). The compound shall be classified in
accordance with ANSI/ASTM D1784.
4.3.1.2 Rework materials. Clean rework materials generated from a manu-
facturer may be used by that manufacturer for in-house production, provided that the
finished products meet all the requirements of this standard.
4.3.1.3 Qualification for potable water service. The materials used to make
saddles shall contain no ingredient that may migrate into water in quantities
considered to be toxic. Materials and compounds shall be suitable for potable water
distribution service.
4.3.1.4 Gaskets and lubricants. Gaskets and lubricants intended for use with
the plastic self-tapping saddle material shall be of materials that are compatible with
each other. They shall not be toxic or contribute taste and odor to the water in an
assembled piping system.
4.3.1.5 Elastomeric gaskets. Elastomeric gaskets shall be manufactured from
materials that meet the requirements of ASTM F477 for high head application.
4.3.1.6 Self-tapping saddle(s) components. Self-tapping saddle(s) components
such as the internal tapping mechanism, fasteners, seals, packing, and so forth, must
be made from materials with qualities including endurance, corrosion resistance, and
strength so as to not lessen the expected life performance of the assembly.
Sec. 4.4 Requirements
4.4.1 Workmanship. Self-tapping saddle(s) assemblies shall be free of chips,
dirt, filings, or other foreign materials. Those parts that are molded plastic shall be
homogeneous throughout and shall be free of visible cracks, holes, foreign inclusions,
or other injurious defects. The saddle shall be as uniform as commercially practical
in color, opacity, density, and other physical properties.
4.4.2 Dimensions. The inside diameter of the self-tapping saddle(s) shall
conform to the values given in Tables 1 and 2 when measured as specified in ASTM
D2122. Upon request, the manufacturer shall furnish to the purchaser relevant
standard product dimensions and tolerances for the self-tapping saddle(s). Provisions
Table 1 ANSI/AWWA C900 pipe dimensions (CIOD)

Pressure Class at
Nominal Size 73.4°F (23°C) Average Outside Diameter Tolerance
in. (mm) psi DR in. (mm) in. (mm)
4 (100) 100, 150, or 200 25, 18, or 14 4.800 (121.9) ±.009 (0.23)
6 (150) 100, 150, or 200 25, 18, or 14 6.900 (175.3) ±.011 (0.28)
8 (200) 100, 150, or 200 25, 18, or 14 9.050 (229.9) ±.015 (0.38)
in the design shall include a bottom-out or stop feature to prevent over-tightening

and necking-down or damage to the PVC water pipe.
4.4.3 Fitting qualification test. Each saddle size shall be qualified by testing
in accordance with Sec. 5.1.2.2. Representative saddles shall demonstrate an average
extrapolated long-term pressure strength (LTPS) of 615 psi (4,240 kPa) at 100,000 h.
4.4.4 Sealing gasket. The sealing gasket in the self-tapping saddle(s) bonnet
shall form a permanent watertight seal at the rated pressure of the pipe when the
self-tapping saddle is properly installed.
4.4.5 Internal tapping mechanism. The internal tapping mechanism shall not
cause cracking or damage to the water main when cutting the hole in the main in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. The cutting device shall be a shell
cutter suitable for tapping PVC pressure pipe and shall also be designed to minimize
stresses on the PVC during the tapping process. The cutter shall retain the PVC
coupon cut from the main after tapping.
4.4.6 Outlets. The outlet of the tee shall be threaded male iron pipe size,
threaded female iron pipe size, solvent cemented, or mechanical-compression type, as
required by the purchaser. The outlets shall be designed to accept service piping in
sizes 1⁄2 in. (13 mm) through 2 in. (50 mm) IPS OD, or 3⁄4 in. (20 mm) through 2 in.
(50 mm) copper tube size (CTS).
4.4.7 Design pressure requirements. The self-tapping saddle(s) shall be
designed to provide satisfactory performance on water distribution mains and
services operating at 73.4°F (23°C) and 200 psig (1,379 kPa) for all sizes. The ratings
apply to the 200 psi (1,379 kPa) working pressure, and the design shall provide for a
pressure rise above this pressure caused by surge of 1.5 times above maximum
allowable 200 psi (1,379 kPa) pressure in water distribution mains. The long-term
pressure strength (LTPS) of each size self-tapping saddle(s) shall be 615 psi
(4,240 kPa).
4.4.8 Working pressure safety factors. The self-tapping saddle(s) safety factor
available at the working pressure of the PVC pipeline on which the saddles are
installed can be calculated by using the following equation:
LTPS
F
wp
= -------------- (Eq 1)
P
wp
Table 2 IPS PVC pipe dimensions

Nominal Pipe Size Average Outside Diameter Tolerance
in. (mm) in. (mm) in. (mm)
1 ⁄4 1
(32) 1.660 (42.16) ±0.005 (0.13)
1 1⁄ 2 (40) 1.900 (48.26) ±0.006 (0.15)
2 1⁄2 (50) 2.375 (60.32) ±0.006 (0.15)
2 ⁄2 1
(65) 2.875 (73.02) ±0.007 (0.18)
3 1⁄2 (80) 3.500 (88.90) ±0.008 (0.20)
3 ⁄2 1
(90) 4.000 (101.60) ±0.008 (0.20)
4 1⁄2 (100) 4.500 (114.30) ±0.009 (0.23)
6 1⁄2 (150) 6.625 (168.28) ±0.011 (0.28)
8 1⁄2 (200) 8.625 (219.08) ±0.015 (0.38)
6 AWWA C908-97
Where:
Fwp = saddle safety factor at the working pressure
LTPS = long-term pressure strength, which is 615 psi (4,240 kPa) for saddles
meeting the requirements of this standard
Pwp = maximum working pressure in the PVC pipeline
4.4.8.1 Example. Calculate the safety factor applicable to an installed and
open saddle when conveying flow from a PVC pipeline in which the maximum
working pressure will be 200 psi (1,379 kPa).
Solution:
615
F wp = --------- = 3.07
200
4.4.9 Maximum surge pressure safety factors. Saddles meeting the require-
ments of this standard are designed to operate at surge pressures of 1.5 × pressure
rating, or 300 psi (2,068 kPa). The self-tapping saddle(s) safety factors occurring in
the PVC pipeline on which they are installed can be calculated by using the following
equation:
LTPS (Eq 2)
F sp = --------------
P
ts
Where:
Fsp = saddle safety factor at maximum surge pressure
LTPS = long-term pressure strength, which is 615 psi (4,240 kPa) for saddles
meeting the requirements of this standard
Pts = total system pressure in the PVC pipeline, working pressure plus
surge pressure, not to exceed 300 psi (2,068 kPa)
4.4.9.1 Example. In a Class 150, DR 18, PVC pipeline, the working pressure
is 150 psi. The velocity of flow will be instantaneously changed from time to time by
up to 2 ft per second (0.61 m/second). Calculate the safety factor applicable to the
self-tapping saddles installed and open on this pipeline under full flow conditions and
maximum surge pressure.
Solution: The pressure rise in a PVC pipeline as a result of a change in flow
velocity is given in AWWA M23. For DR 18 pipe, the pressure surges by 17.4 psi
(120 kPa) for each 1 ft/second instant change in flow velocity. Therefore:
615
F = --------------------- = 3.3
sp 150 + 35
4.4.10 Quality control of self-tapping saddle(s) tees.

4.4.10.1 Accelerated-regression test. Self-tapping saddle(s) tees shall be tested
in accordance with Sec. 5.1.2.3. Representative self-tapping saddles shall demon-
strate a minimum extrapolated long-term pressure strength (LTPS) of 615 psi
(4,240 kPa) at 100,000 h.
4.4.10.2 Burst pressure. Specimens of the saddles shall not leak or fail when
raised to a pressure of 985 psi (6,791 kPa) in accordance with the test method in
Sec. 5.1.2.5.
4.4.10.3 Heat-reversion test. Self-tapping saddle tees shall be tested in
accordance with Sec. 5.1.2.4. The saddles shall conform to the criteria for success
specified in the procedure.
SECTION 5: VERIFICATION
Sec. 5.1 Test Methods
5.1.1 Test preparation.
5.1.1.1 Conditioning. Tests shall be performed at 73.4°F ±3.5°F (23°C ±2°C)
unless otherwise specified by the purchaser. Fittings shall be conditioned at test
temperatures in a liquid bath for a minimum of 1 h or in a gaseous medium for a
minimum of 16 h before pressurizing.
5.1.1.2 Sampling. Selection of fittings for testing shall be as specified in this
standard, unless otherwise agreed on by the purchaser and the manufacturer.
5.1.2 Test methods.
5.1.2.1 Dimensions. All measurements shall be made in accordance with
ASTM D2122.
5.1.2.2 Fitting qualification test. Each saddle design, pattern, and size shall
be qualified by subjecting representative samples to long-term pressure tests, with
devices mounted on water mains, as described in ASTM D1598, except as modified
below. The PVC pipe will be tapped by the saddle under this qualification test, and
the self-tapping saddle(s) valve is closed during the test. Internal pressure is
substituted for hoop stress. Pressure versus time-to-failure data, consisting of at least
10 data points and extending to at least 2,000 h, shall be obtained in representative
self-tapping saddle specimens mounted on pipe that has end closures described in
ASTM D1599, but otherwise in accordance with ASTM D1598. These data shall be
used to develop an estimate of the self-tapping saddle’s average 100,000 h strength
(expressed as internal pressure in psi) in accordance with the extrapolation method
given in ASTM D2837. The data shall be entered as log pressure to failure (psi)
versus log time to failure hours rather than the usual log stress to failure versus log
time to failure. The data shall be considered unsuitable for extrapolation if the lower
confidence limit at 100,000 h is less than 85 percent of the estimated average
pressure strength for the same time intercept. Failure of pipe only, or of the self-
tapping saddle(s) only, or of both the pipe and the self-tapping saddle(s) simulta-
neously in the test assembly shall represent a valid data point for estimating the self-
tapping saddle’s average 100,000 h strength.
5.1.2.3 Accelerated-regression test. A minimum of six specimens of a single
size of saddles shall be subjected to short-term pressure tests mounted on pipe that
has end closures described in ASTM D1599, but otherwise in accordance with ASTM
D1598. The self-tapping saddles shall be tested at internal pressures calculated to
cause failure (to yield data points) at the following time intervals:
a. 0.167 h to 0.500 h (10 min to 30 min)
b. 0.501 h to 2.000 h (30 min to 120 min)
c. 2.001 h to 15.000 h
d. 15.0001 h to 100.000 h
8 AWWA C908-97
e. 100.001 h to 1,000 h
f. 0 to 100+ h (random point)
Failure of a self-tapping saddle in a test assembly during the accelerated
regression test shall represent a valid data point for estimating the self-tapping
saddle’s strength. Additional points may be added to improve the precision of the
extrapolation or to narrow the band width of the confidence limits. No points shall be
excluded unless an obvious defect is detected in the failure area of the test specimen.
These data shall be used to develop an estimate of the self-tapping saddle’s average
100,000-h strength (expressed as internal pressure in psi) as described in ANSI/
AWWA C907 and in accordance with the extrapolation method given in ASTM D2837.
5.1.2.4 Heat-reversion test. Self-tapping saddles shall be subjected to the
reversion test method given in ASTM F610. The estimation of quality shall be based
on the suggested interpretation of results given in the appendix of ASTM F610.
5.1.2.5 Burst-pressure test. All sizes of saddles shall be tested. Self-tapping
saddles in sizes 4 in. through 8 in. (100 mm through 200 mm) shall be installed on
class 200 DR14 PVC pipe with the tap completed and the valve closed. IPS-OD self-
tapping saddles in sizes 1 1⁄4 in. through 8 in. (32 mm through 200 mm) shall be
installed on DR13.5 series PVC pipe with the tap completed and the valve closed. The
pressure in the test assembly shall be raised to the required test pressure within
60 seconds to 70 seconds.
5.1.3 Test frequency.
5.1.3.1 Dimensions. The dimension of self-tapping saddles produced from
each mold cavity shall be measured at the beginning of production, and thereafter at
least once for each 8 h of production. Any change to the molding parameters or
material compound shall be interpreted as a beginning of production.
5.1.3.2 Fitting qualification test. Each self-tapping saddle’s size shall meet
the requirements of Sec. 4.4.3. Having met these requirements, the qualified fitting
may be produced, subject to the other requirements of this standard, without
additional qualification tests. A qualified fitting shall be retested in accordance with
Sec. 5.1.2.2 if a change is made to its designed dimensions or any materials
compound to ensure compliance with Sec. 4.4.3.
5.1.3.3 Accelerated regression test. Testing shall be done on the original
design and thereafter, in accordance with Sec. 5.1.2.3.
5.1.3.4 Heat-reversion test. One self-tapping saddle shall be selected at
random from the first 50 self-tapping saddles of each production run of each
configuration and size and tested in accordance with Sec. 4.4.10.3 and once each 8 h
thereafter or on any change of molding conditions.
5.1.3.5 Provision for test-sample failure. Any rejected fitting, plus the fit-
tings represented by that fitting, shall be rejected if it does not meet all requirements
in this section. A quantity of specimens shall be subjected to the failed test method in
numbers sufficient to determine which are acceptable of those produced from the
same mold as the last favorable test.
5.1.4 Retention of test results. The manufacturer shall maintain for a period
of not less than five years a record of all quality-control tests performed in accordance
with Sec. 4.4.10 of this standard and shall, if requested, submit the pertinent record
to the purchaser.
Sec. 5.2 Inspection

5.2.1 General. Inspection by the purchaser shall not relieve the manufacturer
of the responsibility for furnishing a product that will satisfy the requirements
defined in this standard.
5.2.2 Notification of purchaser. If an in-plant inspection of the product is
specified by the purchaser, the manufacturer shall provide the purchaser advance
notice of the date, time, and place of self-tapping saddle(s) manufacture and testing
so that the purchaser may be present.
5.2.3 Rejection. Unless otherwise specified by the purchaser, any self-tapping
saddle that is found to not conform to this standard shall be returned to and replaced
by the manufacturer.
5.2.3.1 External leakage. External leakage to the outside of the fitting or any
leakage between the self-tapping saddle and pipe is a basis for rejection, when
installation is performed in conformance with the manufacturer’s published
instructions.
5.2.3.2 Failure of internal tapping mechanism. Any failure of the internal
tapping mechanism to properly cut and retain the coupon without damage to the pipe
is a basis for rejection.
SECTION 6: DELIVERY
Sec. 6.1 Marking
Each self-tapping saddle shall bear the following permanent marking:
a. Nominal size and OD base of the pipe with which the self-tapping saddle(s)
is to be used (i.e., 6 in. C900 OD).
b. PVC.
c. AWWA designation for this standard (ANSI/AWWA C908-97).
d. Manufacturer’s name or trademark and production-record code.
e. Seal of the laboratory that evaluates the device as being suitable for use
with potable water.
Sec. 6.2 Packaging and Shipping
The saddles shall be complete and ready to install when shipped. The
manufacturer shall use care in packaging to prevent damage during handling or
transit.
Sec. 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance
The purchaser may require an affidavit from the manufacturer that the
products furnished have been tested and comply with all applicable provisions of this
standard.
1P-7.5M-43908-9/97-MG Printed on recycled paper.

PVC Self-Tapping Saddle Tees For Use On PVC Pipe: Awwa Standard

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PVC Self-Tapping Saddle Tees For Use On PVC Pipe: Awwa Standard

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American Water Works Association

Effective date: Aug. 1, 1997.

AMERICAN WATER WORKS ASSOCIATION

American National Standard

Copyright © 1997 by American Water Works Association

Eldon Morain, Chair

Thomas L. Chance, Chair

K.F. Cerotsky, Springfield Utility Board, Springfield, Ore. (AWWA)

General Interest Members

K.M. Bell, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, Ill. (UL)

SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE

Internal Tapping Mechanism

Saddle Top Outlet

Figure 1 Self-tapping saddle tee with cutaway view

AWWA STANDARD FOR

PVC SELF-TAPPING SADDLE TEES

ANSI B1.20—American National Standard For Pipe Threads, General Purpose

6. Long-term pressure strength (LTPS): The long-term, hydrostatic, internal

Sec. 4.2 Installation

Table 1 ANSI/AWWA C900 pipe dimensions (CIOD)

in the design shall include a bottom-out or stop feature to prevent over-tightening

Table 2 IPS PVC pipe dimensions

4.4.10 Quality control of self-tapping saddle(s) tees.

Sec. 5.2 Inspection

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