Transmission lines are the pipes that carry the water from the source to the storage system. Transmission lines are the largest, thickest pipes in the system. When planning a water system, try to keep the treatment and storage tanks close to the water source to reduce the cost of transmission lines.
Distribution pipes carry water out to the users. To protect water quality, water pipes must be at least 10 feet from sewer pipes and laid in separate trenches. The absolute minimum diameter for a distribution pipe is two inches. A six-inch diameter pipe is the minimum needed for serving fire hydrants.
Iron Pipe was used for a long time as a lower cost alternative to copper pipe. It does require special fittings and is corrodes faster than many other materials.
Wooden Pipes where common in Boston and Monreal in the 1800’s. They where hollowed out logs. The pipes where sealed together with animal fat. They where also used as a substitute material during WWII
Lead Pipe’s where a favorite materials for centuries due to the malleability. For years this was a source of lead related health problems including still births and high rates of infant mortality. They remain in many households.
PEX is a cross-linked polyethylene. The material is more durable under extreme temperature changes, chemical exposure, and better resists creep deformation, making PEX an excellent material for hot water and other applications.
Copper Pipe is widely used for potable water plumbing because of their corrosion resistance and safety. Plumbers experienced in Copper Pipe installation and repair are common. They are easy to work with because of it’s malleability and fittings are easily soldered. Copper pipe has sometimes failed due to pinhole leaks a company called CuraFlo has made exceptional strides in rehabilitating copper pipe.
Galvanized The galvanizing process is done by the application of molten zinc to pre-formed steel pipes to provide a corrosion resistant coating. Galvanized pipes will corrode over time. Many galvanized pipes in old buildings were manufactured using zinc that probably contained high levels of lead, which is a common impurity in the zinc. Galvanized pipes can still be found in many older homes and many commercial buildings.