In plumbing, a pipe is a tube of metal, plastic, or other material used to convey water, gas, oil, or other fluid substances. Pipes have the sole purpose of being a channel of distribution for utilities into a building. Utilities include; drinking water and gas. Pipes are also used in waste disposal systems like house plumbing or sewer line. Furthermore, they are also used for the distribution of air via vents and ducts for A.C. units. Pipes are also used for setting up electrical systems. They are fixed into a building’s walls during constriction to facilitate the installation of wiring systems. Owing to this, different pipes, play different functions and thus have different material requirements, dimensions, and specifications.
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Pipe sizes are specified by either the inside diameter (ID) or the outside diameter (OD) of the pipe and by the wall thickness. Pipe fittings are designed to connect pipes of different diameters or to connect pipes to other fittings like taps, showers, or main water supply.
There are a variety of different types of plumbing pipes used in building construction and these are classified in terms of the material from which they are manufactured. These pipes can be found in a variety of properties including; residential, and commercial industrial among others. Some common types of plumbing pipes used in construction include copper, PVC, cast iron, stainless steel, and aluminum. Each type of pipe has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to select the right one for the specific application. Copper pipe is one of the most common types of plumbing pipes used in construction.
Copper piping: This is one of the most commonly used types of plumbing. It is characterized by corrosion resistance, long lifespan, and resistance due to damage by microorganisms. Copper piping has been used for centuries because of its durability, and affordability among other useful qualities. Copper piping is also an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, which makes it ideal for transporting hot water and electrical wiring. However, in that case, such case, outer insulation is required to minimize heat loss from hot water. It’s used as an electrical conductor and the most common wiring material.
Cast iron piping; This has been used for plumbing and building construction for centuries. Cast iron is durable and relatively easy to work with, making it a popular material for pipes. Although it is more expensive than other materials, such as PVC, cast iron piping can last for many years when properly installed and maintained. The downside of cast iron piping is that it is prone to rust when exposed to moisture.
Plastic piping; When most people think of plumbing, they think of metal pipes. However, plastic piping is becoming an increasingly popular choice for plumbing in both residential and commercial buildings. Plastic piping is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of plastic that is known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Plastic is lightweight and less expensive compared to other piping types. There are many benefits to using plastic piping instead of metal pipes. Plastic piping is lighter than metal pipes, making it easier to install and less likely to cause damage to the building structure. Plastic piping is also less prone to rust and corrosion than metal pipes, making it a more reliable choice for water-supply lines. Additionally, plastic piping is cheaper than metal pipes, making it a more affordable option for homeowners and contractors alike.
Steel piping; This is a type of plumbing pipe that is made of steel. Steel piping is one of the most popular types of plumbing pipe. Steel is a metal alloy manufactured by combining iron and steel. It is often used in building construction and in other types of construction. Steel piping is strong and durable, and it can be used for a variety of purposes. It is also relatively affordable, making it a popular choice for many people. Steel is also rust-resistant and thus more durable than options like cast iron.
In conclusion, there are several types of plumbing pipes used in building construction namely;- steel, cast iron, copper, and PVC. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks that should be considered when choosing a pipe for a project. For example, galvanized steel pipes are durable and relatively inexpensive, but can corrode over time; copper pipes are more expensive but have a longer lifespan; PVC pipes are the most cost-effective option but may not be as durable as other types of pipes.