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Steel Pipes
Steel pipes are used when long distribution mains are required to be laid on the
surface. Steel pipes are light in weight, thickness of the pipe is smaller than
those of MS / RC pipes. Can withstand high working pressure (above 7 kg/sq
cm). Steel pipes are generally used in areas requiring diam. higher than 600
mm. Steel pipes are susceptible to attack by acids and alkalis, even present in
traces in water.
Galvanised Iron Pipes(GI)
Galvanised Pipes of steel or wrought iron are widely used for distribution
system and are good materials for conveyance of hard water. With soft active
waters such pipes deteriorate rapidly and should not be used. Galvanised /
wrought iron pipes and fittings are used where exposed to corrosive conditions
such as, the presence of sea water or salty water. GI pipes are manufactured in
diam. of 8mm to 100mm.
Asbestos Pipe
Asbestos - cement Pipes are manufactured with asbestos and cement and are
used for distribution of water. These pipes perform better in areas of corrosive
soils, or alkalis or acidic water without much corrosion. Diam of such pipes
may be 8mm to 600mm. Disadvantages of the pipes are reported danger of
health as the water may contain asbestos cement fibres which may cause
lungs disease.
Polythene and Polyvinyl (PVC) Pipes
Polythene pipes are very flexible and can be laid without problem. Friction losses
through the pipes are very low and discharge through the pipes are smooth.
PVC pipes are not flexible and differ the thickness and weight depending upon
the quality of the pipe. Rigid PVC pipes are light to handle, resistant to
corrosion, available in long lengths. They are also economical.
