My colleague Terry Burger has written in detail about ASSE’s newest standard, ASSE 1103, Performance Requirements for Pilot Operated Water Pressure Reducing Valves for Potable Water (see his article, “New ASSE 1103 Standard“). ASSE 1103 was the next logical step for devices that did not fit into the requirements of ASSE 1003, Performance Requirements for Water Pressure Reducing Valves for Potable Water Distribution Systems, due to their different control mechanism and larger sizes. So, what are the differences between the two standards? How are the testing criteria different for each standard?
Let’s look at sizes first. ASSE 1003 covers valves with nominal device sizes ranging from one-half inch to 4 inches, while ASSE 1103 covers devices from 1 ¼ inches up to 12 inches in diameter. To test these larger devices, it is likely the client will need to accommodate on-site “witness” testing. Most labs will not have the capacity to test the larger devices due to the high flow rates required.
Another way in which the devices are different is the manner in which the pressure is maintained. An ASSE 1003 device controls pressure using a spring-loaded valve, while an ASSE 1103 device uses a pilot valve that drives the main valve to regulate the pressure. The difference in how pressure is maintained has also led to differences in how the devices are tested. Common to both standards are a seal performance, hydrostatic, temperature range, reduced pressure deviation, minimum reduced pressure and a reduced pressure adjustment range test. While ASSE 1003 has a capacity and a bypass relief test, the tests were not included in ASSE 1103, as they were deemed not relevant. As a result, while an ASSE 1003 device is required to display a reduced pressure range, no such requirement exists for an ASSE 1103 device.
One other minor difference between the two standards is the pressures at which the reduced pressure tests are performed: 25 psi for ASSE 1003 versus 30 psi for ASSE 1103.
ASSE 1003 and 1103 standards are recognized in the United States as well as Canada. This allows clients to display the cASSE mark should they choose to do so. ASSE encourages clients to adopt the cASSE mark whenever possible. With the ever-increasing list of harmonized standards, the cASSE mark is becoming increasingly common. The time and money associated with keeping multiple certifications increases with a listee’s ever-changing product portfolio. At ASSE, you have a certification partner who understands the importance of speed to market, simplification, and cost reduction. ASSE’s expanded testing capabilities means that both new and existing clients can consolidate all their certifications, to multiple industry standards, under one umbrella — ASSE International.
To update your certifications, please contact: staffengineer@asse-plumbing.org.
