NEW TEST METHODS TO DETERMINE THE CAUSES OF FAILURES IN ABS DRAIN WASTE AND VENT PLUMBING SYSTEMS

摘要

Large numbers of unusual failures in ABS DWV sewage installations, began appearing in the mid-1980s. They usually appear only after the buildings are occupied, but cause heavy damage and severe health problems. A number of lawsuits have resulted. The presence of unacceptable solvents in the cements used to assemble the systems and poor quality pipe have been identified as the primary causes of the problems. However, it has been difficult to prove this using the standard ASTM test methods. Therefore, we have developed new tests which address both problems using the STA/FTIR method. These methods have been described in previous publications, but both have recently been improved. In this paper, the improved test protocols are described and their applications to the analysis of failures in ABS DWV systems are illustrated using examples from the history of the problem. [References: 3]