Cast Iron

Cast iron pipe has been used in some cities for over 100 years! While they are most commonly used for drainage systems, they are also widely used for water supply lines. They are more expensive to produce than plastic pipe but they are much stronger and installation is relatively easier.

Cast iron's strength comes from the way it is produced. Cast iron piping produced today is spun cast. By using this method, the manufacturer can produce a very consistent sidewall thickness. This makes any possible defects few and far between. Different sections of the pipe are joined together by using stainless steel band clamps. These clamps have bolts in them, which when tightened create a virtually leak-proof seal.

People often ask the question: "If the pipe is made of iron, won't water make it rust?" The idea of cast iron is to have a material with the same structural integrity as iron but without the corroding effects of water. However, cast iron pipes are susceptible to corrosion due to the acidity of the material that is either in them or around them. For example, if the pipe is buried underground, surface rust might be caused by unusually acidic soil.

Most of the damage comes from sewer gasses within the pipe itself. Hydrogen sulfide gas can accumulate in certain spots in the pipe and cause cracks to form. Sulfuric acid also causes this. Another sign of weakness are blobs of rust that form on the outside of the pipe. These are where there are pinhole leaks in the pipe that rust fills up and seals repeatedly.

If you are having trouble with your cast iron piping or are thinking of installing it your home, give us a call today at (480) 615-7766 to schedule service!

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Smoke Testing | Floor Drains | Grease Pumping | Sewage Ejectors