Accelerate your product certification. Get precise, reproducible test data for PE pressure pipes in sub-zero conditions. Our advanced S4 testing validates your products' performance against rapid crack propagation, streamlining your certification process and supporting faster market entry. Meet ISO 13477 requirements through independent verification that advances your business goals.
What is Rapid Crack Propagation Testing at ²ÝÁñÉçÇø?
Rapid crack propagation (RCP) testing investigates the sudden fractures that can occur in thermoplastic pressure pipes, especially polyethylene (PE), under specific stress and low temperatures. In critical infrastructure, particularly in sub-zero conditions, it is crucial to understand a material's resistance to RCP to ensure long-term safety and performance.
At ²ÝÁñÉçÇø, we perform ISO 13477-compliant, Small-Scale Steady-State (S4) testing to evaluate your products' resistance to RCP. This efficient, small-scale method delivers reproducible results that aid in product development, certification, and performance evaluation, serving as a faster and more cost-effective alternative to full-scale testing.
What Can ²ÝÁñÉçÇø Offer You For ISO 13477 Rapid Crack Propagation Testing?
Components and materials we test
Our testing program focuses on Polyethylene (PE) Pressure Pipes, where we evaluate crack propagation, particularly in sub-zero conditions, to ensure optimal performance and long-term durability. We also test a broad range of Thermoplastic Pipes, including Polypropylene and PVC, assessing their crack initiation and propagation characteristics under various conditions. Additionally, we conduct thorough testing on Industry-Relevant Resins, supporting manufacturers in refining their formulations to meet industry standards and deliver products that stand the test of time.
Key tests offered
Access critical testing data through our comprehensive S4 test program, designed to ensure reliability and performance of your products in demanding conditions:
- Critical Pressure Test: This test determines the pressure at which RCP occurs, helping you understand your material’s pressure limits.
- Critical Hoop Stress Test: We assess the hoop stress required for crack initiation and propagation, ensuring that your pipes and materials can withstand internal stresses in real-world applications.
- Critical Temperature Test: Our testing evaluates the temperature threshold at which rapid crack propagation becomes a risk, particularly important for applications in sub-zero environments.
Methods and solutions offered
We utilize advanced testing methods to ensure the highest accuracy and reliability for your materials, helping you make informed decisions regarding performance and certification.
- Controlled Conditions: We manage pressure and temperature to simulate real-world environments, providing realistic performance data.
- Impact Testing: Our experts strategically apply impact to initiate cracks with minimal disturbance for accurate results.
- Specialized Systems: Internal baffles and external cages stabilize testing conditions and prevent premature crack arrest.
- Small-Scale Efficiency: Our small-scale specimens offer a quicker, cost-effective alternative to full-scale testing while maintaining reliable accuracy.
Which labs offer this service
Our primary testing facility in Sweden hosts 5,000 test stations, enabling rapid response times and comprehensive testing capacity. This advanced facility maintains strictly controlled environmental conditions for sub-zero temperature testing, supporting your certification needs with reliable, reproducible results.
Advanced Digital Analytics
Transform your test results into actionable insights through our advanced digital analysis capabilities. Your test data undergoes sophisticated computational modeling to predict long-term performance characteristics and identify potential failure modes. This enhanced analysis helps you optimize material selection, refine design parameters, and make data-driven decisions that strengthen your product development process.
We're here to help. Engage with an expert today.
Our plastic pipes testing facility in Sweden is one of only a handful across the globe with a capacity of 5,000 test stations. We provide independent, reliable and reproducible test data for product classification and life time evaluation. Contact our team to discuss your test projects.
Plastic Pipes Testing Services

Hydrostatic Pressure Testing
Determination of long-term hydrostatic strength for plastic pipes to ISO 9080 (MRS) and ASTM D2837 (HDB).

Chlorine Resistance Testing
Evaluation of oxidative resistance to chlorinated water for PE, PEX, PE-RT, and PP materials to ASTM F2023, ASTM F2263, and ASTM F3497-21.

Rapid Crack Propagation, S4 Test
Determination of resistance to rapid crack propagation to ISO 13477 for PE pressure pipes at below zero temperature.

Slow Crack Growth Test to ISO 13479
Determination of slow crack growth to ISO 13479 on pre-notched PE and PEX pipes

High Flow Circulation Loop Testing
Experimental simulation of pipe life expectancy is affected by bend radius, types of fittings and pipe insulation using flowing water.

Plastic Pipes & Fittings Testing
Our plastic pipe testing program offers test data for product classification and lifetime evaluation to resin manufacturers, pipe extruders and certification bodies worldwide.Â