Pipes: Why Choose Metal Over Plastic

Pipes have a lot of applications in the construction of residential or industrial structures. Pipes can be utilized as structural components, but their primary purpose is to convey substances – solid, liquid, or gas – through openings. There are plenty of pipe materials to choose from, with the selection mainly depending the substance that must be transported.

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The two main categories of pipe materials are plastic and metal. Some prefer plastic as it is the less expensive material, although the fittings and other accessories can be quite costly. There are also no risks of corrosion, unlike with metal pipes.

Contamination, though, is a possibility because of the chemicals used as adhesive to join sections of pipes, in addition to the potential toxicity of plastic itself. Most plastic pipes cannot withstand extreme temperatures, splitting when it is too cold, or warping when exposed to high heat.

For these reasons and some more, metal or alloy pipes have been the preferred choice of plumbers and engineers. These pipes are safe, durable, and reliable, especially when conveying any substance of whatever form or temperature. It has a long life span, rendering the need for replacement the least to be concerned about.

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There are a lot of metal and alloy pipes to choose from, such as steel, aluminum, brass, carbon, and copper. Each has advantages and drawbacks. But, clearly, these types of pipes are the better choice.

DS Pipe & Steel Supply LLC is a leading distributor of pipes and structural steel. It is led by Sean and Chris Keehner. Visit this blog for more discussion about steel and pipes.

Steel or plastic? The best materials for your piping needs

Old pipe systems in homes, office buildings, and industrial establishments have originally only used galvanized steel or cast iron. Today, however, the variety of materials used in fluid conveyances has been considerably wide. These include the following:

Steel. Steel pipes are strong and readily available, but last for only about 50 years. They can get eroded over time and may require replacement rather than repair when something gets broken.

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Copper. Copper pipe is very resistant to corrosion, so it is commonly used in water supply lines. It costs more than plastic but lasts much longer.

ABS. Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene or ABS is a plastic material first used in residential plumbing in the 1970s. It is usually colored black and is very affordable.

PVC. Polyvinyl-chloride or PVC is a white or cream-colored pipe most commonly used in drain lines. It is very strong, does not easily react with chemicals, and could last for a long time. The rating and diameter is stamped right on the pipe.

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PEX. Cross-linked polyethylene or PEX is the newest kind of pipe for residential use. Approved in most states, it can be easily installed, is flexible, and uses compression fittings. However, more permanent connections require a special crimping tool. As for its price, PEX is three to four times more expensive than copper or plastic.  
  
Chris Keehner is the president of DS Pipe & Steel Supply LLC, an independent, family-owned, full-line stocking distributor of structural steel, pipes, valves, fittings, and piping specialties. For more about his company’s services, click here.