1. The sample pipe is subjected to an increasing compressive load so that, at a given time, it reaches the force defined by the standard; the intensity of the force is measured in Newtons.
2. Once this force has been reached, the deflection level is measured, i.e. the difference between the original outer diameter and the post-test outer diameter. This deflection must not exceed the limits imposed by the standard.

Es. ICTA 3422
The resistance to compressive strength is expressed by the first digit: 3
The sample of ICTA 3422 is subjected to a force that, in 30 seconds, reaches an intensity of 750N: following this force, deflection of the sample must not exceed 50% (for ICTA 20 mm, for example, the decrease in diameter must not exceed 10 mm).
Subsequently, the sample is removed and, after 15 minutes, the so-called "self-recovery" capacity is measured: the difference between the initial outer diameter and that of the deformed sample should not exceed 10%. For example, for the ICTA diam. 20, the post-test diameter must be at least 18mm.

1. The sample pipe and equipment are conditioned at the temperature required by the standard for at least two hours.
2. The sample is then hit by a hammer placed at a distance that generates the energy level set by the reference standard.
3. The sample subjected to this shock must remain perfectly intact, without any cracks visible to the naked eye in order to conform to standard specifications.

Es. ICTA 3422
Impact resistance is expressed by the second number: 4
The ICTA 3422 sample is cooled to a temperature of -5°C and, after 2 hours, subjected to a 6 Joules energy shock test (1 x 3kg hammer placed 20 cm from the sample).

1. During the impact resistance test, the mechanical resistance at the minimum temperatures required by the standard is also tested.

Es. ICTA 3422
Resistance to minimum operating and installation temperature is expressed by the third digit: 2
The impact test is performed on samples chilled to -5°C.

1. The sample is placed in a kiln at the temperature required by the standard for 4 hours.
2. After this time has lapsed, the sample is loaded for 24 hours with the weight specified by the standard whilst still inside the kiln.
3. After 24 hours, the load is removed and the "collapse value" is measured: the internal diameter, which is measured using a special sliding gauge, must not be less than the value declared by the manufacturer.

Es. ICTA 3422
Resistance to maximum operating and installation temperature expressed by the fourth digit: 2
The ICTA 3422 sample is placed in a kiln at a temperature of 90°C for 4 hours and is then weighted with a load of 2 kg for 24 hours. After the test, the internal diameter must not be less than the minimum internal diameter indicated by the manufacturer.

This test is only performed on polypropylene pipes (ICTA), as they are not self-extinguishing (unlike PVC).

1. The sample ICTA pipe is tested using a flame rising from a temperature of 100°C to a temperature of 700°C in just 45 seconds.
2. The flame must be applied for a time that varies, depending on the thickness of the pipe wall (for example, a 20 diameter pipe will require an application time of 20 seconds).
3. When this time has lapsed, the flame is removed: at this point, the pipe must not burn for more than 30 seconds and any drops must not ignite the tissue paper placed under the pipe at a distance of about 50cm.