If not addressed, corrosion can cause major pipe damage in plumbing systems. Pipe corrosion leads to rust, scale build-up, leaks, and contamination issues in the water supply and plumbing system.
Metal pipes like galvanised steel pipes are especially vulnerable to water corrosion and corrosion damage over time. Proactively using corrosion inhibitors and other preventive measures is key to avoiding costly repairs.
This guide will give homeowners and property managers an overview of pipe corrosion, its impacts, and actionable ways to identify and prevent plumbing corrosion issues. So, keep ready to learn how to prevent corrosion in your plumbing system!
Corrosion is the gradual deterioration of metal pipes, copper piping, and other plumbing components. As water moves through the pipes, chemical reactions occur, leaving mineral deposits and rust behind. Over time, the protective layer is destroyed.
Factors like water chemistry, velocity, temperature and dissolved oxygen content accelerate galvanic corrosion, leading to leaks, blockages, water quality issues and structural weaknesses.
The effects of corrosion in pipes on household and commercial water supply systems are numerous:
Materials like galvanised steel, copper pipes, and iron are prone to corrosion damage over time. Even concealed pipes inside walls and foundations will eventually be weakened. Catching corrosion early is critical to avoid total component failure.
Being proactive with pipe maintenance and implementing corrosion prevention methods when installing or upgrading plumbing systems is key:
Certain plumbing systems, water sources, and installations require specialised corrosion prevention strategies. Dissolved oxygen in the water promotes corrosion by reacting with metal components. Using deaerators and airtight plumbing systems helps remove oxygen before it can accelerate pipe deterioration.
In hard water areas, water softeners help reduce scale build-up and corrosion damage by replacing stiff mineral ions like calcium and magnesium with sodium ions. Pre-installation cleaning and maintenance measures that prevent contact between dissimilar metals will also avoid accelerated galvanic corrosion.
Finally, microbiological contaminants like corrosive bacteria should be controlled through chlorine injection or other disinfection methods to inhibit microbial-influenced corrosion.
Even minor corrosion can allow chemical contaminants like lead and copper to infiltrate water systems, causing health problems. Corroded pipes must be addressed swiftly to avoid compromising drinking water safety. Ongoing corrosion prevention is crucial to keep water safe.
A robust corrosion prevention plan starts with selecting the right materials resistant to corrosion during the design or re-pipe phase. Copper, flexible plastic piping like PEX, and stainless steel alloys are less corrosion-resistant than galvanised steel or iron. Any metal components should have protective coatings or linings applied, whether epoxy, enamel, or insulating joint sleeves.
It’s also essential to monitor and control water chemistry. Test pH regularly and aim for a 6.5-8.0 range using acid neutralisers or alkali injectors. Chlorination or other disinfection limits microbially-influenced corrosion.
Particulate filters remove sand and dirt that could abrade pipe walls. Water softeners reduce the hardness of minerals that react with metal. If necessary, other chemicals like phosphates, silicates, or zinc compounds can be dosed as corrosion inhibitors for problematic water supplies.
Vigilant maintenance is also required in addition to chemistry. Conduct regular professional inspections to identify potential corrosion and address minor issues like leaks before major repairs are needed. Airtight plumbing with deaerators limits water oxygenation. Keep aerators and strainers clear of debris. Prompt identification and remediation of corrosion will limit damage and costs.
A dedicated water treatment system overseen by corrosion control specialists is advisable for large facilities. But smaller systems can also benefit from these fundamental approaches - selecting resistant materials, facilitating proper water chemistry, following manufacturer specifications, and inspecting and maintaining plumbing components.
Preventing corrosion takes vigilance but pays dividends by averting pipe damage, water loss, and costly repairs down the road.
Corrosion prevention involves vigilance, early detection, and proactive maintenance. However, ignoring corrosion threats can lead to ruptured pipes, rusty water, contamination, and costly plumbing repairs.
Don’t wait until major issues arise. Monitor your plumbing system closely and address even minor leaks or anomalies immediately. The most effective approach is to implement the right materials, water treatment, and maintenance routines before corrosion takes hold.
Contact the licensed professionals at WP Plumbing in Melbourne for assistance creating a customised corrosion prevention plan for your residential or commercial plumbing system.
Our experienced plumbers can inspect your existing pipes, recommend corrosion-resistant materials for re-piping, install protective linings and coatings, and implement water treatment to control pH and chemistry. We also provide ongoing corrosion monitoring services to identify issues early before they escalate.
Don’t leave your plumbing system’s longevity and water quality to chance—partner with WP Plumbing in Melbourne for proven corrosion prevention that protects your pipes and gives you peace of mind.
You can help prevent microbiologically influenced corrosion by maintaining your water system with chlorine or other chemical disinfectants to control bacteria growth. Also, flush infrequently used pipes regularly and promptly fix any leaks that could allow microbes inside.
For aggressive water that causes pitting corrosion, phosphate or silicate inhibitors work well to protect metal pipes. Maintaining water pH between 6.5 and 8.0 also helps minimise chemical reactions that cause pitting damage.
Blue or green stains are signs of copper corrosion. To prevent this chemical reaction, ensure your water system maintains optimal pH and hardness levels. You can also install copper corrosion inhibitors, like zinc or phosphate compounds, to form a protective layer on pipes.
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Read on to learn the variables that can contribute to corrosion-compromising home pipes over time. It explores the major types of corrosion and examines factors like oxygen levels, velocity, chemicals, installation issues and sediments that may accelerate the process. Gain insights to inform preventative strategies.
