Plumbing
Plumbing is any system that conveys
In the developed world, plumbing infrastructure is critical to public health and sanitation.[4][5]
Boilermakers and pipefitters are not plumbers although they work with piping as part of their trade and their work can include some plumbing.
History
Plumbing originated during ancient civilizations, as they developed
The
Standardized earthen plumbing pipes with broad
Copper piping appeared in Egypt by 2400 BCE, with the Pyramid of Sahure and adjoining temple complex at Abusir, found to be connected by a copper waste pipe.[12]
The word "plumber" dates from the Roman Empire.[13] The Latin for lead is plumbum. Roman roofs used lead in conduits and drain pipes[14] and some were also covered with lead. Lead was also used for piping and for making baths.[15]
Plumbing reached its early apex in
In post-classical Kilwa the wealthy enjoyed indoor plumbing in their stone homes.[16][17]
Most large cities today pipe solid wastes to
The use of lead for potable water declined sharply after World War II because of increased awareness of the dangers of lead poisoning. At this time, copper piping was introduced as a better and safer alternative to lead pipes.[18]
Systems
The major categories of plumbing systems or subsystems are:[19]
- potable cold and hot tap water supply
- plumbing drainage venting
- graywaterrecovery and treatment systems
- Rainwater, surface, and subsurface water drainage
- fuel gas piping
- hydronics, i.e. heating and cooling systems using water to transport thermal energy, as in district heating systems, like for example the New York City steam system.
Water pipes
A water pipe is a
History
Despite the Romans' common use of lead pipes, their aqueducts rarely poisoned people. Unlike other parts of the world where lead pipes cause poisoning, the Roman water had so much calcium in it that a layer of plaque prevented the water contacting the lead itself. What often causes confusion is the large amount of evidence of widespread lead poisoning, particularly amongst those who would have had easy access to piped water,[21] an unfortunate result of lead being used in cookware and as an additive to processed food and drink (for example as a preservative in wine).[22] Roman lead pipe inscriptions provided information on the owner to prevent water theft.
Cast iron and ductile iron pipe was long a lower-cost alternative to copper before the advent of durable plastic materials but special non-conductive fittings must be used where transitions are to be made to other metallic pipes (except for terminal fittings) in order to avoid corrosion owing to electrochemical reactions between dissimilar metals (see galvanic cell).[25]
Bronze fittings and short pipe segments are commonly used in combination with various materials.[26]
Difference between pipes and tubes
The difference between pipes and tubes is a matter of sizing. For instance,
Pipe is available in rigid joints, which come in various lengths depending on the material. Tubing, in particular copper, comes in rigid hard tempered joints or soft tempered (annealed) rolls. PeX and CPVC tubing also comes in rigid joints or flexible rolls. The temper of the copper, whether it is a rigid joint or flexible roll, does not affect the sizing.[27]
The thicknesses of the water pipe and tube walls can vary. Because piping and tubing are commodities, having a greater wall thickness implies higher initial cost. Thicker walled pipe generally implies greater durability and higher pressure tolerances. Pipe wall thickness is denoted by various schedules or for large bore polyethylene pipe in the UK by the
Wall thickness does not affect pipe or tubing size.[28] 1/2" L copper has the same outer diameter as 1/2" K or M copper. The same applies to pipe schedules. As a result, a slight increase in pressure losses is realized due to a decrease in flowpath as wall thickness is increased. In other words, 1 foot of 1/2" L copper has slightly less volume than 1 foot of 1/2 M copper.[29]
Materials
Water systems of ancient times relied on gravity for the supply of water, using pipes or channels usually made of clay, lead, bamboo, wood, or stone. Hollowed wooden logs wrapped in steel banding were used for plumbing pipes, particularly water mains. Logs were used for water distribution in England close to 500 years ago. US cities began using hollowed logs in the late 1700s through the 1800s. Today, most plumbing supply pipe is made out of steel, copper, and plastic; most waste (also known as "soil")[30] out of steel, copper, plastic, and cast iron.[30]
The straight sections of plumbing systems are called "pipes" or "tubes". A pipe is typically formed via
Steel
Most typical single family home systems will not require supply piping larger than 3⁄4 inch (19 mm) due to expense as well as steel piping's tendency to become obstructed from internal rusting and mineral deposits forming on the inside of the pipe over time once the internal galvanizing zinc coating has degraded. In potable water distribution service, galvanized steel pipe has a service life of about 30 to 50 years, although it is not uncommon for it to be less in geographic areas with corrosive water contaminants.
Copper
Copper pipe and tubing was widely used for domestic water systems in the latter half of the twentieth century. Demand for copper products has fallen due to the dramatic increase in the price of copper, resulting in increased demand for alternative products including
Plastic
Plastic pipe is in wide use for domestic water supply and drain-waste-vent (DWV) pipe. Principal types include: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was produced experimentally in the 19th century but did not become practical to manufacture until 1926, when Waldo Semon of BF Goodrich Co. developed a method to plasticize PVC, making it easier to process. PVC pipe began to be manufactured in the 1940s and was in wide use for Drain-Waste-Vent piping during the reconstruction of Germany and Japan following WWII. In the 1950s, plastics manufacturers in Western Europe and Japan began producing acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) pipe. The method for producing cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) was also developed in the 1950s. Plastic supply pipes have become increasingly common, with a variety of materials and fittings employed.
- PVC/CPVC – rigid plastic pipes similar to PVC drain pipes but with thicker walls to deal with municipal water pressure, introduced around 1970. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, and it has become a common replacement for metal piping. PVC should be used only for cold water, or for venting. CPVC can be used for hot and cold potable water supply. Connections are made with primers and solvent cements as required by code.[31]
- PP – The material is used primarily in housewares, food packaging, and clinical equipment,[32] but since the early 1970s has seen increasing use worldwide for both domestic hot and cold water. PP pipes are heat fused, being unsuitable for the use of glues, solvents, or mechanical fittings. PP pipe is often used in green building projects.[33]
- PBT – flexible (usually gray or black) plastic pipe which is attached to barbed fittings and secured in place with a copper crimp ring. The primary manufacturer of PBT tubing and fittings was driven into bankruptcy by a class-action lawsuit over failures of this system.[citation needed] However, PB and PBT tubing has since returned to the market and codes, typically first for "exposed locations" such as risers.
- PEX– cross-linked polyethylene system with mechanically joined fittings employing barbs, and crimped steel or copper rings.
- Polytanks – plastic polyethylene cisterns, underground water tanks, above ground water tanks, are usually made of linear polyethylene suitable as a potable water storage tank, provided in white, black or green.
- Aqua – known as PEX-Al-PEX, for its PEX/aluminum sandwich, consisting of aluminum pipe sandwiched between layers of PEX, and connected with modified brass compression fittings. In 2005, many of these fittings were recalled.[further explanation needed]
Present-day water-supply systems use a network of high-pressure pumps, and pipes in buildings are now made of copper,[34] brass, plastic (particularly cross-linked polyethylene called PEX, which is estimated to be used in 60% of single-family homes[35]), or other nontoxic material. Due to its toxicity, most cities moved away from lead water-supply piping by the 1920s in the United States,[36] although lead pipes were approved by national plumbing codes into the 1980s,[37] and lead was used in plumbing solder for drinking water until it was banned in 1986.[36] Drain and vent lines are made of plastic, steel, cast iron, or lead.[38][39]
Gallery
-
Monument to water pipe in Mytishchi (Russia)
-
A specific water pipe made for use with pressure vessels. The pipe can sustain high-pressure water and is relatively small.
-
Concrete water pipe
-
Connecting to an existing water line (white pipe) with a stainless steel tapping sleeve and valve (red). A concrete thrust block is being formed behind the new connection.
-
Water pipe connected to the septic tank.
-
Sewer pipe
Components
In addition to lengths of pipe or tubing, pipe fittings such as valves, elbows, tees, and unions. are used in plumbing systems.
Sealants
Threaded pipe joints are sealed with
Equipment and tools
Plumbing equipment includes devices often behind walls or in utility spaces which are not seen by the general public. It includes
There are many tools a plumber needs to do a good plumbing job. While many simple plumbing tasks can be completed with a few common hand held tools, other more complex jobs require specialised tools, designed specifically to make the job easier.
Specialized plumbing tools include
Flooding from excessive rain or clogged sewers may require specialized equipment, such as a heavy duty pumper truck designed to vacuum raw sewage.[citation needed]
Problems
Bacteria have been shown to live in "premises plumbing systems". The latter refers to the "pipes and fixtures within a building that transport water to taps after it is delivered by the utility".
Regulation
Much of the plumbing work in populated areas is regulated by government or quasi-government agencies due to the direct impact on the public's health, safety, and welfare. Plumbing installation and repair work on residences and other buildings generally must be done according to plumbing and building codes to protect the inhabitants of the buildings and to ensure safe, quality construction to future buyers. If permits are required for work, plumbing contractors typically secure them from the authorities on behalf of home or building owners.[citation needed]
Australia
In Australia, the national governing body for plumbing regulation is the Australian Building Codes Board. They are responsible for the creation of the National Construction Code (NCC), Volume 3 of which, the Plumbing Regulations 2008[45] and the Plumbing Code of Australia,[46] pertains to plumbing.
Each Government at the state level has their own Authority and regulations in place for licensing plumbers. They are also responsible for the interpretation, administration and enforcement of the regulations outlined in the NCC.[47] These Authorities are usually established for the sole purpose of regulating plumbing activities in their respective states/territories. However, several state level regulation acts are quite outdated, with some still operating on local policies introduced more than a decade ago. This has led to an increase in plumbing regulatory issues not covered under current policy, and as such, many policies are currently being updated to cover these more modern issues. The updates include changed to the minimum experience and training requirements for licensing, additional work standards for new and more specific kinds of plumbing, as well as adopting the Plumbing Code of Australia into state regulations in an effort to standardise plumbing regulations across the country.
Norway
In Norway, new domestic plumbing installed since 1997 has had to satisfy the requirement that it should be easily accessible for replacement after installation.[48] This has led to the development of the pipe-in-pipe system as a de facto requirement for domestic plumbing.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom the professional body is the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (educational charity status) and it is true that the trade still remains virtually ungoverned;[49] there are no systems in place to monitor or control the activities of unqualified plumbers or those home owners who choose to undertake installation and maintenance works themselves, despite the health and safety issues which arise from such works when they are undertaken incorrectly; see Health Aspects of Plumbing (HAP) published jointly by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Plumbing Council (WPC).[50][51] WPC has subsequently appointed a representative to the World Health Organization to take forward various projects related to Health Aspects of Plumbing.[52]
United States
In the United States, plumbing codes and licensing are generally controlled by state and local governments. At the national level, the
Some widely used Standards in the United States are:[citation needed]
- ASME A112.6.3 – Floor and Trench Drains
- ASME A112.6.4 – Roof, Deck, and Balcony Drains
- ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 – Plumbing Supply Fittings
- ASME A112.19.1/CSA B45.2 – Enameled Cast Iron and Enameled Steel Plumbing Fixtures
- ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 – Ceramic Plumbing Fixtures
Canada
In Canada, plumbing is a regulated trade requiring specific technical training and certification. Standards and regulations for plumbing are overseen at the provincial and territorial level, each having its distinct governing body:
- Governing Bodies: Each province or territory possesses its regulatory authority overseeing the licensing and regulation of plumbers. For instance, in Ontario, the Ontario College of Trades handles the certification and regulation of tradespeople, whereas in British Columbia, the Industry Training Authority (ITA) undertakes this function.
- Certification: To achieve certified plumber status in Canada, individuals typically complete an apprenticeship program encompassing both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Upon completion, candidates undergo an examination for their certification.
- Building Codes: Plumbing installations and repairs must adhere to building codes specified by individual provinces or territories. The National Building Code of Canada acts as a model code, with provinces and territories having the discretion to adopt or modify to their specific needs.
- Safety and Health: Given its direct correlation with health and sanitation, plumbing work is of paramount importance in Canada. Regulations ensure uncontaminated drinking water and proper wastewater treatment, underscoring the vital role of certified plumbers for public health.
- Environmental Considerations: Reflecting Canada's commitment to environmental conservation, there is an increasing emphasis on sustainable plumbing practices. Regulations advocate water conservation and the deployment of eco-friendly materials.
- Standards: The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) determines standards for diverse plumbing products, ensuring their safety, quality, and efficiency. Items such as faucets and toilets frequently come with a CSA certification, indicating adherence to required standards.[54]
See also
- Active fire protection
- Copper pipe
- Domestic water system
- Double-walled pipe
- EPA Lead and Copper Rule
- Fire hose
- Flange
- Garden hose
- HDPE pipe
- Heat pipe
- Hose
- MS Pipe, MS Tube
- Passive fire protection
- Pipe
- Pipe and tube bender
- Pipefitter
- Pipe network analysis
- Pipeline transport
- Piping and plumbing fittings
- Pipe support
- Plastic pipework
- Plastic pressure pipe systems
- Plumber
- Plumbing & Drainage Institute
- Plumbosolvency
- Sanitation in ancient Rome
- Tube
- Victaulic
- Water supply network
References
- ISBN 9781136373152.
- ^ Blankenbaker, Keith (1992). Modern Plumbing. Goodheart Willcox.
- ^ "What Is The Origin Of The Word "plumbing"?". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. May 12, 1942. Retrieved December 27, 2013.
- ^ "Health Aspects of Plumbing".
{{cite journal}}
: Cite journal requires|journal=
(help) - ^ Plumbing: the Arteries of Civilization, Modern Marvels video series, The History Channel, AAE-42223, A&E Television, 1996
- ^ "Archaeologists Urge Pentagon To Keep Soldiers From Destroying". Herald-Journal. March 19, 2003. Retrieved December 27, 2013.
- ISBN 9781365912870. Retrieved August 4, 2017.
- ISBN 978-1-317-05953-0.
- S2CID 4398699.
- ISBN 978-0-8108-6564-8.
- ^ Teresi et al. 2002
- ISBN 978-1-4381-0997-8.
- ^ Pulsifer, William H. Notes For a History of Lead, New York University Press, 1888. pp. 132, 158
- ^ Middleton, The Remains of Ancient Rome, Vol. 2, A & C Black, 1892
- ^ Historical production and uses of lead. ila-lead.org
- ^ The Travels of Ibn Battuta
- ^ Cartwright, Mark (March 29, 2019). "Kilwa". World History Encyclopedia.
- ^ "Public Notice .Lead Contamination Informative City Ok Moscow Water System". Moscow-Pullman Daily News. August 12, 1988. Retrieved December 27, 2013.
- ^ "Basic Plumbing System". January 13, 2013. Retrieved January 4, 2016.
- ^ "Lead in Drinking Water". Epa.gov. February 20, 2013. Retrieved January 22, 2014.
- ^ Hansen, Roger. "WATER AND WASTEWATER SYSTEMS IN IMPERIAL ROME". Waterhistory.org. Retrieved January 22, 2014.
- ^ Grout, James. "Lead Poisoning and Rome". Encyclopaedia Romana. 2017.
- ^ "Wooden water pipe". BBC. Retrieved January 22, 2014.
- Washington Post.
- ^ "Types of Pipe Material". Virginia's Community Colleges. Retrieved January 22, 2014.
- ^ Worldwide Market for Industrial and Domestic Water Equipment as of 2010. PwC. March 2012. Retrieved January 28, 2014.
- ^ a b "Difference between Pipes and Tubes". Retrieved January 22, 2014.
- ^ "Wall thickness does not affect pipe o" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on September 3, 2013. Retrieved January 22, 2014.
- ^ "CTS - Copper Tube Sizes - Dimensions used in Plumbing". The Engineering Toolbox. Retrieved January 5, 2023.
- ^ a b https://www.cscplates.com/blog/what-is-cast-iron-soil-pipe/ What is cast iron soil pipe
- ^ "What's the difference between PVC and CPVC pipe?". August 15, 2017.
- ^ Bidisha Mukherjee. "Polypropylene Properties and Uses". Buzzle. Archived from the original on February 8, 2015. Retrieved February 7, 2015.
- ^ "Walking The Talk". pmengineer.com.
- ^ Copper Tube Handbook, the Copper Development Association, New York, USA, 2006
- ^ California’s PEX Battle Continues. Builderonline.com
- ^ PMID 16393670.
- PMID 18633098.
- ^ Uniform Plumbing Code, IAPMO
- ^ International Plumbing Code, ICC
- ^ "Miscellaneous Valves". Archived from the original on April 26, 2009. Retrieved December 27, 2013.
- ^ "Basic Plumbing Principles". The Evening Independent. November 10, 1926. Retrieved December 27, 2013.
- ^ "Key To Pop-up Drain Is Fresh Plumber's Putty". Daily News. January 12, 2003. Retrieved December 27, 2013.
- PMID 26230512.
- ^ PMID 25793551.
- ^ "PLUMBING REGULATIONS 2008 - REG 11 Plumbing work that may be carried out by unlicensed or unregistered persons". classic.austlii.edu.au. Retrieved November 13, 2018.
- ^ "The Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) - Australian Government". ablis.gov.au. November 14, 2018. Retrieved November 14, 2018.
- ^ "Regulatory Framework | Australian Building Codes Board". www.abcb.gov.au. ABCB. Retrieved November 13, 2018.
- ^ "Nytt om føringsveier for tappevann - Byggebransjens våtromsnorm". www.byggforsk.no. Retrieved December 25, 2021.
- ^ "The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE)". Retrieved March 29, 2014.
- ^ "World Plumbing Council". Retrieved October 11, 2009.
- ^ "WHO Health aspects of plumbing". Archived from the original on June 13, 2006. Retrieved October 11, 2009.
- ^ "World Plumbing Council". Archived from the original on January 17, 2009. Retrieved October 11, 2009.
- ^ "Section 1417 of the Safe Drinking Water Act: Prohibition on Use of Lead Pipes, Solder, and Flux". August 3, 2015. Retrieved December 20, 2016.
- ^ Brown, Norah. "Plumbing Company in Canada". Capital Plumbing & Heating. Norah Brown. Retrieved October 11, 2018.
Notes
- ^ Materials used to make water pipes are polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polyethylene, ductile iron, cast iron, steel, copper and formerly lead.
Further reading
- ISBN 0-684-83718-8.
External links
- Media related to Plumbing at Wikimedia Commons
- The dictionary definition of plumbing at Wiktionary
- Quotations related to Plumbing at Wikiquote
- Plumbing at Wikibooks
- ATSDR Case Studies in Environmental Medicine: Lead Toxicity U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- Lead Water Pipes and Infant Mortality in Turn-of-the-Century Massachusetts
- Case Studies in Environmental Medicine - Lead Toxicity
- ToxFAQs: Lead