Steel Pipe Application: Waterlines

After entering the water main, water moves through a large pipe called a waterline (usually ¾ inches or larger) to reach its final destination. We rely on these pipes to deliver water to our homes, throughout our communities and for commercial applications. Waterlines are exposed to constant pressure and moisture, which is why choosing a material that is durable and resistant to corrosion is essential to ensuring a waterline’s longevity.

The History of Waterlines

Up until the 20th century, if you wanted water in your home you would need to fill a bucket from a stream or well and carry it home. One of the first houses to adopt running water in America was that of James LeRay, whose mansion had wooden pipes that kept water flowing using a simple gravity feed. Built in 1806, the water pipes were set at a slight grade so that water would always run downhill into the mansion’s kitchen, but not so quickly that it arrived with too much force. When the house was sold to Engineer Jules Payen, Payen improved this water system. By 1833, the White House was plumbed with running water, and from there the popularity of waterlines continued to grow into the standard we see today.

Materials Used in Waterlines

Today, waterlines are no longer made of hollow wooden tubes but of other materials such as PVC, copper and galvanized steel. PVC is typically used to transport cold water only. CPVC can transport water up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit. PEX can be used for hot and cold water and radiant heating, and copper is also common for both hot and cold-water distribution. Finally, galvanized steel is most often found in commercial applications.

Galvanized Steel Pipe for Commercial Waterlines

Galvanized steel pipe is pipe that’s been galvanized with a zinc coating. This coating prevents the water from corroding the pipe over time. Galvanized pipe was commonly used in home waterlines up until the 1970s, but due to the amount of work that it takes to cut, thread and install galvanized steel, today galvanized steel pipe is more often seen in commercial applications.

Common Waterline Problems

Waterlines are prone to certain problems that may cause damage and disrupt the water flow. Holes or cracks may develop in a waterline over time, usually as a result of long exposure to moisture or external corrosion from frost or chemicals in the soil. Similarly, waterlines are under constant pressure, which can degrade their integrity. Finally, it’s common for waterlines to suffer blunt damage from things like accidental shovel blows or construction digging. One of the reasons galvanized steel is a common choice in commercial waterlines is because it holds up well under pressure and is resistant to moisture and other outside elements.

Galvanized Steel Waterlines

As previously mentioned, waterlines must be resilient under pressure, durable, and resistant to corrosion. It’s for these reasons that steel waterlines are often used for large commercial applications. Unlike other materials like PVC, steel is long lasting and resistant to many chemical reactions that cause corrosion. This is especially important for waterlines, since they’re constantly exposed to water. Similarly, steel pipe is stronger than many other types of pipe and can be made larger or thinner without compromising its durability. The strength of steel makes it a great option for most waterlines since it can withstand vibrations, shock and high pressure. Unlike other materials, steel waterlines will bend rather than break in extreme conditions, which means they’re less likely to crack or leak. Finally, steel waterlines remain stable at extreme temperatures, which adds to their longevity.

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