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IS 13049:1991 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for diaphragm type (plastic body) float-operated valves for complex water services. This standard specifies the requirements for diaphragm-type, float-operated valves with plastic bodies, intended for use in cold water services, particularly for water closets and flushing cisterns. It covers materials, dimensions, construction, performance tests, and marking for nominal sizes of 15 mm and 20 mm.
diaphragm type (plastic body) float-operated valves for complex water services
BIM-relevant code. See the BIM Hub for ISO 19650, IFC, and LOD/LOIN frameworks used alongside it.
Practical Notes
! These valves are intended for low to medium pressure applications (up to 0.5 MPa) and should not be used in high-pressure systems.
! The plastic construction offers excellent corrosion resistance but may be susceptible to degradation from UV exposure or certain chemicals.
! Ensure the correct float arm length and float position is set during installation to achieve the desired water level and ensure proper shut-off.
Frequently referenced clauses
Cl. 4Materials
Cl. 5Dimensions and Construction
Cl. 7Performance Requirements
Cl. 7.2Hydrostatic Test
Cl. 7.5Endurance Test
Cl. 9Marking
Updates & Amendments1 amendment
Amendment 1 (July 1993)
Consolidated list per BIS. For the text of each amendment, refer to the BIS portal link above.
plasticsacetal copolymernylonrubber
International Equivalents
Similar International Standards
BS 1212-3:1990BSI, UK
HighWithdrawn
Float operated valves. Specification for diaphragm type (plastics body) float operated valves for cold water services only (excluding floats)
Direct equivalent from the same era, specifically for plastic body diaphragm-type float valves.
BS 1212-4:2016BSI, UK
MediumCurrent
Float operated valves - Specification for compact float operated valves for WC flushing cisterns
The modern successor, focusing on compact designs for cisterns with updated performance criteria.
AS 1910-2004Standards Australia, Australia
MediumCurrent
Water supply - Float-operated float valves
Covers a broader range of float valve types but includes requirements for plastic-bodied valves.
EN 14124:2004CEN, European Union
MediumCurrent
Inlet valves for flushing cisterns with internal overflow
Focuses specifically on valves for toilet cisterns, introducing acoustic and flow rate classifications.
Key Differences
≠IS 13049 specifies an endurance test of 50,000 cycles, whereas modern standards like BS 1212-4:2016 mandate a much more rigorous 200,000 cycle test.
≠Modern European standards like EN 14124 introduce acoustic performance classifications (noise levels during filling), a requirement not present in IS 13049.
≠Backflow prevention requirements in IS 13049 are basic (e.g., a 20 mm air gap), while current standards (BS 1212-4, EN 14124) reference detailed air gap types (e.g., Type AG, AA) to comply with stringent water regulations.
≠IS 13049 specifies a single operating pressure range (0.05 to 1.0 MPa), while standards like EN 14124 define multiple pressure classes to cater to different supply conditions.
Key Similarities
≈All standards are based on the same fundamental operating principle: a float rising with the water level actuates a diaphragm to shut off the inlet supply.
≈The basic construction involving a valve body, seat, diaphragm, lever, and float is common across IS 13049 and its international counterparts.
≈All standards mandate essential performance tests, including a hydrostatic watertightness test to check for leaks under high static pressure.
≈Material requirements are conceptually similar, specifying corrosion-resistant plastics like acetal copolymer for the valve body and components in contact with water.
≈Marking requirements are consistent, demanding that the manufacturer's name or trademark and the relevant standard number be clearly marked on the valve body.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Endurance Cycle Test
50,000 cycles
200,000 cycles
BS 1212-4:2016
Operating Pressure Range
0.05 to 1.0 MPa (0.5 to 10 bar)
0.05 to 1.0 MPa (Class I); 0.02 to 0.5 MPa (Class II)
EN 14124:2004
Hydrostatic Body Test (Valve Closed)
1.5 MPa for 2.5 minutes
1.5 MPa for 10 minutes
AS 1910-2004
Backflow Prevention Air Gap (Minimum)
20 mm above critical water level
Must comply with specific air gap types like Type AG (min 20 mm) as per BS EN 13076
BS 1212-4:2016
Body Material Example
Acetal copolymer conforming to IS 7834
Acetal copolymer or other suitable plastics
BS 1212-3:1990
Acoustic Performance (Noise)
Not specified
Classified into Acoustic Groups I, II, or III based on noise in dB(A)
EN 14124:2004
Operating Temperature
Suitable for cold water services
Fluid temperature test at 20°C ± 5°C
EN 14124:2004
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use