Justice4Jason Engineering Electrical Equipment & Tools

The Different Types of Pipe Material

Posted on May 19, 2012

When building or remodeling a home, piping is essential to transfer water as well as other substances in one location to a higher.  There are a number of different materials used to construct these pipes.  Piping systems have evolved through the years to create a sturdy, long-lasting product.  Wood was one of the primary materials used and today plastic is really a more common material for pipes. 

Cast Iron

Piping created from surefire was used for countless years.  Typically surefire was adopted specifically to produce large pipes but has since been discontinued.  Iron had not been as strong as it would have to be given it would deteriorate in some soils.

Ductile Iron Pipe

To compensate for the discontinuation of iron, ductile iron pipe is now being utilized.  Ductile iron pipe is stronger than certain plus it has the ability to be formed into any shape.  Of course this product is stronger, nevertheless runs potential risk of deteriorating in some soils.

Steel

The past kind of metal piping is steel.  Steel is inexpensive, rendering it well suited for water transmission mains.  For already existing water mains, steel pipes should be cut with a specific size to be able to fit the dwelling and performance efficiently. 

Concrete

Since metal pipes can deteriorate in some soils and corrode in acidic water, concrete is typically used by water lines and industrial systems.  Concrete is not that expensive when compared with other piping materials so it is widely used in projects that want vast amounts of water transported.

Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

For projects that require smaller pipes, plastic can be used on pipes that are ten inches or smaller.  PVC can be a popular form of plastic piping which is inexpensive.  PVC must pass a check mark that ensures the pipes don't contain any toxic chemicals.

Copper

There are many service pipes which can be crafted from copper.  Copper is ideal in water systems yet it is more epensive than plastic piping.

Piping

The type of pipe is important because of deterioration.  Some kinds of soils can weaken surefire and ductile iron inside of a few years.  Chemicals, solvents, and gasoline may damage PVC pipes by making them expand and rupture.  The environment how the pipe have been around in and the type of substance that runs through the pipe must be considered to be sure the longevity of pipes and piping supports for the many years to come.