A new ASSE standard, ASSE 1103, Performance Requirements for Pilot Operated Water Pressure Reducing Valves for Potable Water, has recently been published. ASSE 1103 is an ANSI and a CAN national standard.
It is also worth noting that this is the second Canadian national product standard published by ASSE International. The new standard covers devices that are pilot-operated, diaphragm type pressure-reducing valves. The size range specified is 1 ¼-inch to 12-inch nominal, and the minimum working pressure is 250 psi.
The reader may recognize that a standard exists for water pressure reducing valves, ASSE 1003/CSA B356. This is correct. While ASSE 1003/CSA B356 is harmonized with the CSA Group, ASSE 1103 was published entirely by ASSE and was developed using the ANSI and SCC process.
The difference between the products covered by these standards is in how the device activates to maintain outlet pressure. An ASSE 1003/CSA B356 device uses a direct-acting spring-loaded valve to control pressure, while an ASSE 1103 device uses a pilot valve to drive the main valve to control pressure. The advantage of the pilot operation is that you can have larger sizes.
With regard to the requirements of ASSE 1103, they are similar to ASSE 1003/CSA B356. Products are evaluated for the performance of the seals and the ability to function at the higher temperatures (testing at 140 degrees Fahrenheit). Other requirements are to ensure that the device can control pressure under minimum conditions and still have the adjustment range necessary.
The ASSE 1103 standard is a good addition to the portfolio of standards already published by ASSE International. Previously no standard existed for pilot-operated reducing valves, especially the larger sizes. ASSE 1103 is an important standard in that it defines the proper performance of the pilot-operated reducing valve for the industry.
