Piping Material Pressure Rating Compressive Corrosion Expansion/Contraction

Strength Resistance
Up to 300 psi Moderate (not typically Good (not suitable for high Moderate (thermal expansion)
PVC rated) temperatures)

Up to 300 psi High Excellent (Antimicrobial) Low (minimal thermal expansion)

Copper

Up to 80-100 psi Moderate (flexible) Excellent (resistant to scale High (flexible, allows for expansion)
PEX and chlorine)

Up to 400 psi Moderate (not typically Excellent (resistant to a Moderate (thermal expansion)
CPVC rated) wider range of chemicals
than PVC)
Up to 150 psi High Moderate (prone to rust Low (thermal expansion)
Galvanized over time)
Steel
 Piping Material Applications Justification

PVC Wastewater drainage, irrigation Lightweight, corrosion-resistant,

systems and cost-effective for drainage.

CPVC Hot and cold water supply, chemical Higher temperature tolerance and
handling excellent chemical resistance.

Copper Potable water supply, refrigeration Antimicrobial properties and good

lines thermal conductivity.

PEX Residential plumbing (hot/cold Flexible, resistant to scale, and

water) allows for expansion.

Galvanized Pipe Structural applications, fire High strength, good for high-
protection systems pressure systems, though prone to
rust.
Key Applications Explained:
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
 Used In: Wastewater drainage and irrigation systems.
 Reason: Affordable, easy to install, and resistant to corrosion.
CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride)
 Used In: Hot and cold water supply, industrial applications involving chemicals.
 Reason: Can withstand higher temperatures and is resistant to many chemicals.
Copper
 Used In: Potable water supply and refrigeration.
 Reason: Durable, prevents bacterial growth, and excellent heat transfer properties.
PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene)
 Used In: Residential plumbing.
 Reason: Flexible installation, resistant to scale and chlorine, and can expand without breaking.
Galvanized Steel
 Used In: Structural piping and fire protection systems.
 Reason: Strong and durable, suitable for high-pressure applications, but can corrode over time.
Cast Iron
 Used In: Sewer systems and heavy-duty drainage.
 Reason: High durability and excellent for sound dampening, making it suitable for underground installations.

The effects of temperature on water systems in plumbing can significantly influence the performance and longevity of
plumbing materials and systems. Here are some key effects:

1. Expansion and Contraction

Effect: As water temperature increases, pipes expand, and when it cools, they contract.
Implication: This can lead to stress on joints and fittings, potentially causing leaks or even burst pipes if not properly
accommodated.
2. Pressure Changes
Effect: Temperature affects water pressure; as temperature increases, water expands, increasing pressure in closed
systems.
Implication: High pressure can stress plumbing fixtures, valves, and pipes, leading to leaks or failures.
3. Material Degradation
Effect: Some materials degrade faster at high temperatures (e.g., PVC becomes softer and less rigid).
Implication: This can reduce the lifespan of pipes and increase the likelihood of failures in hot water systems.
4. Water Quality
Effect: Higher temperatures can promote the growth of bacteria and biofilm in stagnant water.
Implication: This can lead to health risks and require more frequent maintenance and disinfection.
5. Thermal Shock
Effect: Rapid changes in temperature can cause thermal shock, especially in rigid materials like glass or some types of
plastic.
Implication: This can lead to cracks or fractures in pipes and fixtures.
6. Increased Corrosiveness
Effect: Hot water is often more corrosive than cold water, especially in metal pipes.
Implication: This can lead to accelerated wear and tear, particularly in copper and galvanized steel systems.
7. Loss of Efficiency in Water Heaters
Effect: Water heaters must work harder to maintain temperatures in poorly insulated systems, leading to higher energy
costs.
Implication: This can reduce the overall efficiency of hot water systems and increase operational costs.
Detailed distinction between various types of pipes and fittings commonly used in plumbing:

Types of Fittings
Elbows
Function: Change the direction of the pipe (usually 90° or 45° angles).
Material Compatibility: Available in PVC, CPVC, copper, and more.
Tees
Function: Connect three sections of pipe, allowing for branching.
Material Compatibility: Commonly made in various materials, including PVC, copper, and PEX.
Couplings
Function: Join two sections of the same type of pipe.
Material Compatibility: Available in all common pipe materials.
Adapters
Function: Connect different types of pipes (e.g., PVC to copper).
Material Compatibility: Available in various materials with threaded or slip connections.
Caps
Function: Close the end of a pipe.
Material Compatibility: Commonly used in PVC, CPVC, and other materials.
Reducers
Function: Connect pipes of different diameters.
Material Compatibility: Available in many materials for various applications.
Flanges
Function: Create a bolted connection between two pipes or between a pipe and a fitting.
Material Compatibility: Used with metal and some plastic pipes for high-pressure applications.
Union Fittings
Function: Allow for easy disconnection of pipes.
Material Compatibility: Commonly used in metal piping systems.
In plumbing, different types of solders and fluxes are used to create strong, reliable joints, especially in copper piping
systems. Here’s a breakdown of the types of solders and fluxes commonly used in plumbing:

Types of Solders
Lead-based Solder
Composition: Typically composed of lead and tin (commonly 60% tin and 40% lead).
Uses: Historically used for water pipes and plumbing installations.
Pros: Easy to work with and provides strong joints.
Cons: Due to health concerns associated with lead, its use in potable water systems is now restricted or banned in many
areas.
Lead-free Solder
Composition: Made from a combination of tin, copper, silver, and sometimes bismuth.
Uses: Recommended for use in potable water systems.
Pros: Safe for drinking water, compliant with health regulations, and provides good joint strength.
Cons: Typically more expensive than lead-based solder and may require slightly higher temperatures to melt.
Silver Solder
Composition: Contains a higher percentage of silver (often around 40% or more) mixed with other metals like copper and
zinc.
Uses: Ideal for high-pressure systems and refrigeration lines.
Pros: Provides a very strong joint and is suitable for applications requiring high temperatures.
Cons: More expensive than standard solders and requires higher temperatures for melting.

Types of Fluxes
Rosin Flux
Composition: Made from natural resin, typically derived from pine trees.
Uses: Commonly used with lead-free solder.
Pros: Non-corrosive and safe for potable water applications.
Cons: Not effective for use with high-temperature applications.
Water-Soluble Flux
Composition: Contains organic acids and is designed to be easily cleaned with water.
Uses: Suitable for plumbing and HVAC applications.
Pros: Excellent for preventing oxidation during soldering and can be cleaned off easily.
Cons: Must be cleaned thoroughly after soldering to avoid corrosion.
Acid Flux
Composition: Contains strong acids (such as hydrochloric acid).
Strength: Very effective in promoting adhesion and cleaning surfaces.
Compatibility: Works well with copper and brass but can damage other materials.
Toxic and Corrosive Effects: Highly corrosive; not recommended for potable water applications due to health risks.
Applications: Best suited for joining copper pipes in HVAC systems and non-potable water applications.

Non-corrosive Flux
Composition: Blends of organic acids and non-toxic ingredients.
Strength: Effective in preventing oxidation during soldering.
Compatibility: Safe for use with most solders and metals, including those used in potable water systems.
Toxic and Corrosive Effects: Non-toxic and safe for drinking water applications; less aggressive than acid flux.
Applications: Ideal for potable water systems and general plumbing applications.
1. Gate Valve
Description: A gate valve is used to start or stop the flow of liquid. It consists of a round or rectangular gate
that moves up and down to open or close the valve.
Operation:
Open Position: When the valve is fully open, the gate is lifted completely out of the flow path, allowing
fluid to pass through with minimal resistance.
Closed Position: When the valve is closed, the gate is lowered, blocking the flow of fluid.
2. Ball Valve
Description: A ball valve uses a spherical disc (the ball) to control fluid flow. The ball has a hole in the
center that aligns with the pipe when open.
Operation:
Open Position: When the valve handle is turned 90 degrees, the hole in the ball aligns with the pipe,
allowing fluid to flow through.
Closed Position: When the handle is turned back, the solid part of the ball blocks the flow.
3. Check Valve

Description: A check valve allows fluid to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow. It typically uses a hinged disc or a ball that moves with the flow
direction.

Operation:

Flow Direction: When fluid flows in the desired direction, the disc or ball opens, allowing passage.

Backflow Prevention: If the fluid tries to flow backward, the disc or ball closes against the seat, blocking the flow.

Sketch Description:

Draw a cylindrical valve with an arrow indicating the flow direction. Show a disc or ball positioned to block flow when reverse pressure is applied.

4. Stop Valve (or Globe Valve)

Description: A stop valve (or globe valve) is used to regulate flow. It consists of a movable disk (or plug) that obstructs the flow path.

Operation:

Open Position: When the valve is open, the disk is lifted away from the seat, allowing fluid to flow through.

Closed Position: When the valve is closed, the disk is pressed down against the seat, stopping the flow.

Sketch Description:

Draw a cylindrical valve body with a vertical stem connected to a disk inside. Illustrate the disk raised for the open position and pressed down for the closed
position.