Why Metal Pipes Have Been Slowly Phased Out from Water Pipelines

The correct choice of material goes a long way in the performance of the entire system when it comes to plumbing and sanitation networks in a building. Conventionally, since centuries, metal pipes were widely used for installation of pipelines for water supply and management. However, increasingly, there has been a tilt away from metal pipes and in the favour of plastic pipes like polyvinyl chloride or PVC for pipeline installations. Let us take a look at some of the reasons that have caused metal pipes to be done away with in water supply and management pipeline systems:

1. The most crucial reason for the phasing out of metal pipes from water pipelines is their poor ability to withstand corrosion from rust. Conventional metal pipes such as iron and copper have a tendency to rust when they undergo oxidation in the external environment which not only contaminates the water flowing through the pipes but also causes the pipes to crack and damage over the long term.

2. Another reason for the doing away of metal pipes in water pipeline installations is their boul. Compared to plastic pipes, metal pipes are quite heavy and difficult to manage, which makes them difficult to transport and also install, thereby adding significant costs to the project.

3. Metal pipes have a relatively lower service life as compared to plastic pipes. The damage to metal pipes and fittings from cracks is high, which adversely impacts their service life and also leads to frequent repairs and replacements.

4. Metal pipes are also more cumbersome to join and may not always provide leakproof connections. The mechanical couplings and welding methods used to fuse metal pipes are not always foolproof and if exposed to high pressure or point load, can lead to the breakdown of the joint.

5. Metal pipes have a tendency to freeze if they are installed in low temperature zones. This can not only impede the flow of water during winters but also cause pipe bursts. On the contrary, plastic pipes for hot water and regular supply have great insulative qualities which prevents condensation in pipes carrying water even in extremely low temperatures.

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