IAPMO/ANSI Z124.6 Plastic Sinks

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) is an organization that coordinates the development and adaptation of plumbing, mechanical, swimming pool, and solar codes to meet the specific needs of specific jurisdictions in the United States and around the world. The organization's jointly published standard, "IAPMO/ANSI Z124.6 Plastic sinks," with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), describes the minimum performance requirements for plastic sinks. Compliance with this standard and the test procedures contained herein demonstrates the acceptability of the plastic sink as a plumbing fixture.

This standard specifies physical requirements and test methods for minimum performance requirements for materials and workmanship and surface finish of plastic sinks. In this standard, the term sink means a kitchen sink, bar sink, service sink or laundry sink with or without integral tops. The materials and equipment listed as used to conduct the test procedures are provided for reference purposes only.

For the purposes of this standard, the following definitions apply:

• Drain connection refers to the outlet connection of a fitting, which includes any strainers and the tailpiece necessary for connection to the drain pipes.
• Integral top refers to a product consisting of a horizontal surface and an armature, made from a single mould and which may include a drainboard area and rear splashboard.

The requirements in this standard are explained as follows:

• Materials:
  • Composition: Units shall be constructed from appropriate grades of plastic resins and other fillers, colorings, reinforcements and coating materials that will meet the performance requirements of this standard.
  • Supporting structure: The material of the supporting structure integral with the unit and its attachment shall be sufficient to meet the performance requirements of this standard.
• Dimensions and tolerances: Holes for taps and drain outlets, when provided, shall be as described in the figure given in the standard. Unless otherwise stated, finished trim dimensional tolerances shall be those declared by the manufacturer.
• Units for testing: Units to be inspected and tested shall be taken from the finished product inventory. The unit for testing shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions to simulate permanent installation conditions, excluding fittings and piping. However, a drain connection shall be installed for testing in accordance with this standard. As shown in the table provided in the standard, certain tests cannot be applied to all classes of sinks.
• Installation instructions: Each unit must be supplied with a copy of the manufacturer's written installation instructions unless the unit is intended to be installed by the manufacturer.
• Maintenance and repair instructions: A copy of the manufacturer's written maintenance and care instructions must be included with each unit and must be affixed to the unit in a visible location and marked "Remove for use by user."

Generally, plastic sinks are made of polypropylene and are resistant to impact and stains. Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer that has a wide range of uses, from parts used in the automotive industry to textile and food packaging. Polypropylene, obtained by polymerizing the monomer propylene, is extremely resistant to organic solvents, acids and bases.

Plastics such as impact-resistant polypropylene are used in smaller, more economical sinks and freestanding wash tubs. While not as strong or resistant to heat or chemicals as other materials, they tend to be quite durable, easy to clean, and affordable.

Unlike traditional porcelain sinks, acrylic sinks are non-porous, making them resistant to mold and mildew. No abrasive scrubbing or harsh chemicals needed. Just a simple wipe down with soap and water is all it takes to keep your sink looking shiny and new.

Among the numerous testing, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies carried out for businesses in various sectors, our organization also provides testing services defined in the “IAPMO/ANSI Z124.6 Plastic sinks” standard with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment.