Study Notes on Pipe Types and Characteristics

Types of Pipes

Asbestos Cement Pipe

  • Composition: Made of fibrous carcinogenic silicate material combined with Portland cement.
  • Uses: Typically used for soil, waste, or downspout applications.
  • Pressure Ratings: Available for working pressures of 100 psi, 150 psi, and 200 psi.
  • Dimensions: Diameter ranges from 3" to 13", with lengths generally between 3 to 4 meters. Specifically:
    • 3", 4", and 6" available lengths are typically 3 meters.
    • 8" diameter available at a fixed length of 4 meters.
  • Joints: Connected using rubber gaskets or solvent cement.

Cast Iron Pipe

  • Characteristics: Known for its durability; suitable for buildings up to 25 stories high.
  • Types:
    • SV: For building applications.
    • XV: For underground use.
    • Extra Heavy: For additional strength.
  • Specialty Type: Acid-resistant cast iron pipes made from an alloy of cast iron and silicon, designed for chemical and acid waste.

Bituminous Fiber Sewer Pipe

  • Features: The cheapest and lightest option available.
  • Typical Use: Primarily used in septic tanks.

Vitrified Clay Pipe

  • Material: Manufactured from clay.
  • Dimension: Commonly 0.75 meters in diameter.
  • Application: Installed mainly underground for sewer systems or storm drains.
  • Durability: Brittle in nature; prone to cracking if not laid on a stable base.

Lead Pipe

  • Historical Significance: One of the oldest plumbing materials used.
  • Health Risks: Not suitable for conveying potable water due to health risks associated with lead exposure.

Galvanized Iron Steel Pipe

  • Length: Typically found in 6.0 meters sections.
  • Lifespan: Generally has a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
  • Corrodibility: Susceptible to corrosion from alkaline and acidic water.
  • Galvanized Wrought Iron Pipes: Considered better than steel pipes for plumbing installations; more resistant to acid waste than traditional steel pipes.

Brass Pipe

  • Cost: The most expensive of all pipe materials.
  • Composition: Composed of 15% zinc and 85% copper.

Copper Pipes

  • Corrosivity: Extremely corrosive, yet one of the easiest types to install.
  • Types:
    • Type K: Green; the heaviest; used for underground installations.
    • Type L: Blue; available in both flexible and rigid forms.
    • Type M: Red; thinner; available only in rigid form.
    • Type DWV: Yellow; typically used for drain, waste, and vent applications.

Plastic or Synthetic Pipe

  • Types:
    • Rigid PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
    • CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride)
    • UPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride)
    • PP (Polypropylene)
    • ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
    • SR (Styrene Rubber)
  • Flexible Pipe:
    • PE (Polyethylene): Round; lengths can reach up to 30 meters.
    • PB (Polybutylene): Oval; lengths can extend up to 150 meters long.