ISO 13478:2007 specifies a full-scale test (FST) method for determining the arrest or propagation of a crack initiated in a thermoplastics pipe at a specified temperature and internal pressure. The method is also suitable for the determination of defined critical pressure, critical stress and critical temperature parameters.

It is applicable to the assessment of the performance of thermoplastics pipes intended for the supply of gases or liquids. In the latter case, air could also be present in the pipe.