Technical Blog

Welcome to John’s Blog. Answers to frequently asked questions are periodically posted here. The objective is to share information about PVC pipe with readers as well as with utilities, design engineers and pipe installers. The blog provides the latest information on PVC pipe design, installation, and application for water and wastewater infrastructure projects.

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John Houle: Senior Technical Consultant, PVC Pipe Industry

John Houle holds a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Missouri and an MBA from the University of Oregon. He has more than 25 years of experience in the plastic pipe industry in applications engineering, market development, forensic analysis, technical writing, and standards development.

AWWA Standards for PVC Pipe - Product Testing

Posted By John Houle on Jan 9, 2018

AWWA standards for PVC pipe have been around since 1975. These standards are developed by committees comprised of three groups:

  • Product user members (water utilities)
  • Product manufacturer members
  • “General interest” members (from consulting engineers, certifying agencies, etc.)

This diverse group brings broad expertise to the table to assure that many views are considered in the standards process.

For PVC pipe, this has resulted in a comprehensive testing program that assures that PVC piping products meet the requirements of the AWWA standards. In addition to manufacturer tests, there are periodic tests by certification agencies such as UL and CSA.

For my Tech Brief on testing of PVC piping products, click here.