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IS 10986:1984 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for non-return valves for plumbing systems - specification. This standard specifies the requirements for materials, dimensions, construction, workmanship, and performance testing for non-return (check) valves up to size DN 100 used in plumbing systems. It covers various types like swing and lift check valves, ensuring they prevent backflow effectively in water lines.
Covers requirements for non-return valves (check valves) for use in plumbing systems.
BIM-relevant code. See the BIM Hub for ISO 19650, IFC, and LOD/LOIN frameworks used alongside it.
Practical Notes
! Ensure correct installation orientation as many non-return valves are gravity-assisted and only work in specific orientations (e.g., horizontal or vertical-up flow).
! The choice between swing, lift, or other types of check valves depends on the application, fluid velocity, and potential for water hammer.
! Regular inspection is recommended as internal components can wear out or get stuck due to debris, leading to failure.
BS EN 13959:2004BSI / CEN (United Kingdom / Europe)
HighCurrent
Anti-pollution check valves - DN 6 to DN 250 - Family E, type A, B, C and D
Covers check valves specifically for preventing contamination in potable water systems, a key application in plumbing.
BS 5153:1974BSI (United Kingdom)
HighWithdrawn
Specification for cast iron check valves for general purposes
A direct contemporary, covering the same materials (cast iron) and valve types (swing, lift) for similar applications.
BS EN 12334:2001BSI / CEN (United Kingdom / Europe)
MediumCurrent
Industrial valves - Cast iron check valves
Covers cast iron check valves, a material specified in IS 10986, but for broader industrial use rather than just plumbing.
AWWA C508-17American Water Works Association (USA)
MediumCurrent
Swing-Check Valves for Waterworks Service, Sizes 2 In. Through 48 In. (50 mm Through 1,200 mm)
Specifies swing-check valves, a type covered by the IS code, but focuses on larger-scale municipal waterworks applications.
Key Differences
≠IS 10986:1984 is a dated standard and lacks requirements for modern potable water safety, such as strict limits on lead content in materials or approval schemes for non-metallic parts (e.g., WRAS), which are central to standards like BS EN 13959.
≠European standards like BS EN 13959 provide a detailed performance classification (e.g., Family E, Type A/B/C/D) based on backflow prevention capability and pressure drop, whereas IS 10986 only classifies valves by their mechanical design (swing, lift).
≠The scope of IS 10986 is limited to sizes from 15 mm to 100 mm, typical for building plumbing. Equivalent international standards often cover a much wider range of sizes, for example, BS EN 13959 goes up to DN 250 and AWWA C508 up to 1200 mm.
≠International standards typically reference EN or ISO standards for face-to-face dimensions (e.g., EN 558 series), leading to different dimensional requirements compared to those specified in the tables of IS 10986.
Key Similarities
≈Both the Indian standard and its international counterparts specify the same fundamental valve designs, namely swing type and lift type (piston) non-return valves.
≈The principle of hydrostatic pressure testing is a core similarity. All standards mandate a shell (body) integrity test at a higher pressure and a seat (closure) leakage test at a slightly lower pressure.
≈Traditional materials of construction like cast iron for the body and copper alloys (bronze/brass) for trim components are specified in both IS 10986 and older or general-purpose standards like the withdrawn BS 5153.
≈Basic marking requirements are consistent, with all standards requiring mandatory markings for the manufacturer's identity, nominal size, and a prominent arrow indicating the direction of flow.
What is the primary function of a valve conforming to IS 10986?+
To allow fluid to flow in only one direction and automatically prevent backflow in a pipeline.
What is the required body test pressure?+
The valve body must withstand a hydrostatic pressure of 1.5 MPa for a specified duration without showing any leakage (Clause 7.2.1).
What markings should be present on the valve?+
The valve should be marked with the manufacturer's name or trademark, the nominal size (DN), and the direction of flow (Clause 8.1).
Can plastic materials be used for these valves?+
Yes, the standard allows for the use of suitable plastic materials, provided they meet the performance requirements and are agreed upon between the purchaser and manufacturer (Clause 4.1).