Description

 This Standard specifies test procedures for determining the resistance of copper-base alloys containing zinc to dezincification. Dezincification resistance is required for alloys used in contact with supply waters and soils. 

Scope

This Standard specifies procedures for determining the resistance of copper-base alloys containing zinc to the form of corrosion termed 'dezincification', in two steps as follows: 

• (a) Alloys are categorized into two groups based on their chemical composition which is used to assess their susceptibility to dezincification.
• (b) Alloys assessed to be resistant to dezincification on the basis of chemical composition do not require testing. 

Alloys considered to be susceptible can be further evaluated by testing them under accelerated laboratory conditions after the completion of all manufacturing stages. Following this test and where the specified acceptance criteria are met, such alloys can also be regarded as resistant to dezincification.

This Standard also specifies the acceptance criteria for the dezincification resistance of copper/zinc alloy components designed for use in contact with potable water or soils.

Note: Advice and recommendations on information to be supplied by the purchaser at the time of enquiry or order are contained in Appendix A.