EN 1393 is a test-method standard for glass-reinforced thermosetting plastics (GRP) pipes used in plastics piping systems. It focuses on measuring initial longitudinal tensile behavior so manufacturers, utilities, and project teams can verify baseline mechanical performance in the pipe’s axial direction.
Because EN 1393 describes multiple specimen and loading approaches, the practical setup depends on the method selected (strip specimen, full cross-section pipe section, or notched plate from the pipe wall). If you need help matching the method to your pipe construction and lab capability, talk with our team.
Plastics piping systems – GRP pipes – determination of initial longitudinal tensile properties (EN 1393)
EN 1393 is used where GRP pipe performance needs to be demonstrated or compared using standardized tensile-property measurements taken in the pipe’s longitudinal (axial) direction. It is commonly referenced in quality control programs, product qualification, and technical specifications for GRP piping.
This standard is test-focused: it provides defined approaches for creating test pieces from pipe and measuring tensile response so results can be reported consistently between labs and projects.
Quick definition
What it is: A test-method standard for determining initial longitudinal tensile properties of GRP pipes.
What it measures: Longitudinal tensile strength, ultimate elongation, and longitudinal modulus (as applicable to the chosen method).
How it’s performed: Tensile loading of prepared specimens cut from pipe, using one of the methods defined by the standard.
What this standard covers
EN 1393 defines three alternative test approaches for evaluating tensile properties in the axial direction of GRP pipe. The methods differ mainly in the form of the test piece prepared from the pipe, which changes fixturing needs and how the load is introduced.
In practical terms, EN 1393 is about producing repeatable, comparable tensile-property results for GRP pipes by controlling specimen form and test execution.
Why this standard matters in testing
Longitudinal tensile properties are an important part of how GRP pipes behave under axial forces from handling, installation, thermal effects, restraint conditions, and service loads. EN 1393 provides a common framework to quantify initial (as-manufactured) axial tensile performance for comparison against internal requirements, purchase specifications, or design assumptions.
For labs, the biggest impact is choosing the correct method and fixtures so the load path is appropriate for the specimen type and the results are not dominated by gripping damage, misalignment, or premature specimen failure outside the intended gauge section.
Common materials, product types, or applications covered
EN 1393 is specific to GRP (glass-reinforced thermosetting plastics) pipes used in plastics piping systems. It is typically used for pipe products where axial tensile properties are specified, tracked, or compared across production lots or product designs.
- GRP pressure and non-pressure piping (project requirements vary by system and service)
- Factory QA/QC and type-testing programs for GRP pipe constructions
- Technical submittals where standardized tensile-property reporting is expected
Common test or verification workflow
EN 1393 is commonly used as part of a mechanical test plan for GRP pipe qualification or ongoing production control.
Typical workflow: select the EN 1393 method that matches the pipe construction and the requirement being cited, prepare specimens from the pipe in the required form, run tensile testing under controlled alignment and gripping, then report tensile strength and strain-based results as required by the standard and the project specification.
Practical caution: specimen extraction and gripping strategy can strongly influence results with composite pipes. For consistent results, labs typically focus on repeatable cutting/edge quality, correct fixture selection for the chosen method, and minimizing bending or stress concentrations introduced by the grips.
Equipment commonly used for this standard
EN 1393 is a tensile test application, so the core system is a universal testing machine configured for composite/pipe-derived specimens and equipped with appropriate force capacity, alignment control, and gripping/fixture options that match the selected method.
Common equipment: universal testing machine (UTM) with suitable load cell; tensile grips or dedicated fixtures appropriate to the EN 1393 specimen type; extensometry or strain measurement suitable for the specimen geometry; specimen preparation tools for cutting/machining strips or plates from pipe and for producing notches when required by the selected method.
If you are selecting a UTM capacity, grip style, and extensometry for GRP pipe tensile testing, you can request a detailed quote for an equipment package matched to your method and specimen geometry.
How to read this designation or revision
EN 1393 is the European Standard designation. It may appear with a publication year (for example, “EN 1393:1996”) and may also be cited together with a corrigendum (for example, “+AC:1997”).
In procurement documents you may also see national adoptions that keep the EN number but add a national prefix (for example, “BS EN 1393”, “DIN EN 1393”, or “SS-EN 1393”). When quoting testing or equipment, match the exact cited edition and any corrigenda to ensure the correct method details and reporting expectations are applied.
Related standards, methods, or frameworks when useful
GRP pipe testing programs often include additional mechanical and performance requirements beyond longitudinal tensile properties. Depending on the pipe system and the project specification, EN 1393 may be paired with other GRP pipe test standards for stiffness, pressure performance, or long-term behavior.
When a customer specification references EN 1393 alongside other GRP pipe requirements, it is important to confirm which properties are required at receipt, during qualification, or as part of ongoing production testing so the lab plan and equipment configuration are sized correctly.
Get help selecting an EN 1393 test setup
If you are working from a project spec or QA plan that cites EN 1393 and you want to confirm the right specimen method, fixtures, and measurement approach for your GRP pipe, contact our team and share the exact designation and your pipe size/construction.