Use and Care Guide

40
Cast Iron Installation
It is important to test all cast iron piping installations for
leaks after the roughing-in has been completed. Before
testing, the installer should notify the inspector of the
local administrative authority having jurisdiction over
plumbing installations. Leave concealed work uncovered
until the required tests are performed and the system
receives approval.
1. Since visual inspection of the system is required,
conduct this test prior to enclosing above-
ground installations, or backfilling below-ground
installations.
2. Isolate each floor or section being tested by inserting
plugs into the test tees in the stacks.
3. Plug or cap all other openings with test plugs or test
caps.
TESTING AND INSPECTION
Various procedures are used to test installed cast iron soil
pipe and fitting systems. They include the use of water
(hydrostatic), smoke, and peppermint.
For testing purposes, the system should be properly
restrained at all bends, changes of direction, and ends
of runs.
• NEVER test with or transport/store
compressed air or gas in Cast Iron pipe
or fittings.
• NEVER test Cast Iron pipe or fittings
with compressed air or gas.
• ONLY use Cast Iron pipe and fittings
for drain, waste and vent or sanitary
sewer applications.
Testing with or use of compressed air or gas in Cast Iron
pipe or fittings can result in explosive failures and cause
severe injury or death.
Note: In all installations, installers should be aware of
local conditions, codes and regulations. Comply with all
local codes, regulations, manufacturers’ instructions and
architect/engineer specifications.
Water or Hydrostatic Testing
This is the most common type of test used to test a
completed cast iron soil pipe installation, and it is the test
most often recommended by plumbing codes. Its purpose
is to check the installation for leaks and to correct these
prior to putting the system into service. Use the following
steps to perform a water test:
4. Fill the system with water at its highest point. Do this
slowly to allow any trapped air to escape as the water
level rises. Note: Failure to remove entrapped air
may cause faulty test results, so be sure all entrapped
air has been removed to obtain reliable test results.
5. As water fills a vertical pipe, it creates hydrostatic
pressure. This pressure increases as the height of the
water in the vertical pipe increases. Charlotte Pipe
recommends water testing with ten feet of hydrostatic
pressure (4.3 pounds per square inch).
6. After filling the stack to ten feet of head, visually
inspect the section you are testing for any leaks
around its joints.
7. In hubless systems, leaks can often be traced to
hubless couplings that were not tightened properly
to the recommended torque. In these cases, correctly
tightening the couplings should eliminate the leak.
8. If leaks are detected in hub and spigot systems,
disassemble the joints and check to determine if the
correct installation procedures were used.
9. Water test each portion of the system for 15
minutes. This is sufficient time for any problems to
be detected.
10. After a successful test, drain the system and prepare
the next section for testing.
Use proper safety procedures, equipment, eye-wear and
clothing during any testing procedures.
Horizontal pipe and fittings five (5) inches and larger must
be suitably braced to prevent horizontal movement. This
must be done at every branch opening or change in
direction by the use of a brace, block, rodding or other
suitable method, to prevent movement or joint separation.
Heavy Duty or wide body couplings are not a substitute for
proper thrust restraint. Failure to properly restrain branch
openings or changes in direction will result in joint
movement or separation, causing system failure and
potential serious injury.