This document specifies the characteristics of valves made from unplasticized polyamide (PA-U) in accordance with ISO 16486-1, intended to be buried and used for the supply of gaseous fuels. It is applicable to isolating unidirectional and bi-directional valves with spigot ends or electrofusion sockets intended to be fused with PA-U pipes or fittings conforming to ISO 16486-2 and ISO 16486-3 respectively.

Valves made from material other than unplasticized polyamide designed for the supply of gaseous fuels conforming to the relevant standards are permitted to be used in PA-U piping systems according to the ISO 16486 series provided they have relevant PA-U connections for butt fusion or electrofusion ends (see ISO 16486‑3). The component, i.e. the complete valve, is required to fulfil the requirements of this document.

This document also specifies the test parameters for the test methods it describes.