How Household Pipes Differ From The Sewer

From a general view household and sewer pipes may appear similar but this is rarely the case. The two categories of pipes may share some similarities but they can never replace one another. Pipe manufacturing industries design these pipes using different techniques. The contrast can be attributed to the type of materials used in making the pipes.

Installation procedures may also bring about a difference. Installing each pipe may require different types of equipment; large sewer pipes may require additional installation procedures to make them safer. This article will highlight the clear differences between household and sewer pipes.

Strength

On average sewer pipes are stronger compared to the household pipes. Sewer pipes are made from materials that are very tough and can withstand external pressure. The reason for the tough design is because sewer pipes at times are made to run below roads. The pipes can withstand the pressure applied to them by vehicles and other locomotives. This is extremely important to avoid constant sewer repair projects as repairing sewers constantly can be costly. Household pipes, on the other hand, may not be as tough as sewer pipes. They are mostly installed within the house where it is safe and can therefore not be damaged by any external pressures.

Sewer Pipes are more Resistant to Corrosion

Sewer pipes transport a lot of waste materials which in most cases contain very corrosive compounds. Chemicals such as those used in cleaning toilets and other areas in the house find their way into sewage systems. These chemical compounds can accumulate within the pipes and may corrode the pipes from the inside.

For this reason, the inner lining of the sewer pipes is designed with unique properties that allow it to withstand the corrosive properties of the chemicals. This may however not apply to the household pipes. They may be reinforced but not to the same level as sewer pipes. This is mainly because household pipes do not transport as much chemical compared to sewer pipes.

Direction of Flow

Most household pipes such as water pipes are designed in such a way that they direct the flow of water towards the house. On the other hand, civil engineering professionals design sewer pipes to direct wastes away from the house. The other difference that comes with the flow is that most household pipes convey their content in high pressure. This is usually made possible using pumps or any mechanical force that can push the contents of the pipes. When it comes to sewer lines this may not be the case, waste from the house moves slowly through the point until it reaches the sewer plant when additional pumping may take place.

Installation

The other difference between household and sewer pipes can be seen in the way each is installed. Household pipes can be installed on level ground due to the availability of pumps that push the pipe contents. When it comes to sewer pipes they must be installed on sloppy terrain. This is done to maximize the force of gravity which is the main driving force and to make it less likely for a sewer blockage to happen.

Sewer Pipes are Larger

In terms of diameter, a good number of sewer pipes have larger diameters compared to household pipes. This may be attributed since one sewage pipes may be shared by the entire neighborhood. Sewer pipes also have a larger diameter because no propulsion mechanism is needed so there is no need of using narrow pipes to create pressure. In most cases, household pipes have a smaller diameter because they convey contents such as water at very high pressure. The small diameter maximizes the pressure that is generated by the pump thereby increasing the speed of the water being conveyed.

How Do Household Pipes Differ From The Ones In Sewer

Now that we know the differences between the requirements of household plumbing and the industrial-grade materials used in the sewers, we can explore a bit more in-depth on these materials. In the next section of the article, we will talk about the common types of materials used for the pipes. These are used not only for the household but also for commercial buildings; do not be surprised if you find out that the pipes used in, say, an adult zip line theme park is the same as the one used in your home.

Copper Pipes

Among the costliest plumbing options, aluminum pipes are highly durable and resist corrosion much better than other metal pipe choices. Copper is secure for sexy and cold-water materials and can resist high pressure, making it an ideal choice for refrigerant lines and underground support conduits.

Stainless Steel Pipes

The high price of stainless steel pipe stuff makes it a much less popular choice for Houston commercial plumbing repair and replacement software. Stainless steel is preferred, but for areas in which corrosion is not a major concern and durability is a priority for property owners. In fact, this same material is so strong that it is the preferred material when making ziplines. Head over to your nearest zip lining locations and see how strong this material can really hold. You can be rest assured that it can withstand constant flow of waste materials for an extended period of time.

Cast-Iron Pipes

Designed to stand up to high pressure and also to carry considerable quantities of liquid, cast-iron plumbing fixtures are usually employed as main sewer lines into commercial buildings and for water supply in these facilities. These pipes provide exceptional fire resistance and noise-suppression capacities for waste disposal in apartment buildings and condo complexes.

Brass Pipes

Rustproof and corrosion-resistance, brass pipes and fittings are among the most durable and longest lasting options for commercial plumbing installations. Brass also threads simpler than stainless steel pipes and can be used to communicate both hot and cold water supplies safely.

PEX Pipes

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping provides real benefits for business properties. It’s a higher tolerance for cold and heat, letting it be utilised for all sorts of water distribution applications. As a result of this high amount of flexibility exhibited by this material, PEX pipes could be flexed around obstacles to permit easier installation and replacement. PEX isn’t acceptable for outdoor use because of its reactivity with ultraviolet lighting.

PVC Plumbing

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes are commonly utilised in both residential and business applications. It is a also a favourite material used for engineering companies in Australia when designing drainage systems. This substance can respond poorly to extended exposure to heat or to ultraviolet light, which restricts its use primarily to indoor applications and drainage applications. PVC pipes are usually rigid and need fittings to reach turns and avoid obstacles. Unlike PEX pipes, PVC materials will split or break instead of expand in freezing temperature conditions.