This standard specifies a method for determining the Vicat softening temperature (VST) of pipes and fittings (see note) of thermoplastics materials, based on method B of ISO 306:1987, i.e. using a force of (50 ± 1) N and a rate of temperature increase of 50 °C/h.

A measure of the temperature is obtainable only for those thermoplastics for which the softening becomes rapid.

NOTE The term “fittings” is intended to also cover valves and other ancillaries made of thermoplastics material(s).

2 Normative references

This European Standard incorporates by dated or undated references provisions from other publications. These normative references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and the publications are listed hereafter. For dated references, subsequent amendments to, or revisions of, any of these publications apply to this European Standard only when incorporated in it by amendment or revision. For undated references, the latest edition of the publication referred to applies.

ISO 306:1987, Plastics — Thermoplastics materials — Determination of Vicat softening temperature.