Published by the Municipal Advisory Board (MAB) with assistance from the Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI), "MAB-3 Model Specifications Guide for PE 4710 Buried Potable Water Service, Distribution and Transmission Pipes and Fittings" has been updated and is now available. The document covers system design parameters, quality control, pressure classes, pipe and fittings, training and inspection, joining methods such as butt fusion, saddle fusion, socket fusion, electrofusion and mechanical, plus open cut and trenchless installation for water services (3/4 to 3 inches per AWWA C901), and for water distribution and transmission (4 to 65 inches per AWWA C906). Additionally, MAB-3 provides an appendix with a list of references from ASTM, AWWA, MAB, NSF and PPI.

The document is available free of charge at www.plasticpipe.org/pdf/mab3.pdf. 

MAB serves as an independent, non-commercial adviser to the Municipal & Industrial Division of the Plastics Pipe Institute.

“This model specification was originally prepared and now has been updated by MAB members and associates as a service to the water industry,” said Camille George Rubeiz, P.E., F. ASCE, co-chair, MAB and senior director of engineering, Municipal and Industrial Division of PPI. “It is intended as a guide for engineers, users, contractors, code officials, and other interested parties for use in the design, and installation of HDPE pressure water piping systems.  The local utility or engineer may need to modify this model specification to adapt the document to local conditions, operations, and practices.”

Additional information can also be found at the MAB website.