Installing pipes for acidic waste? 4 factors you should look for
Posted on: 3 October 2018
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The plumbing systems of laboratories across the country need to be efficient and reliable. As opposed to domestic plumbing systems, a burst pipe that's carrying acidic waste can harm both people and the environment. Therefore, laboratory and industrial pipes need to perform at a much higher level than many other plumbing systems.
If you're looking to install pipes that will carry acidic waste, here are 4 important factors to consider.
1. High-temperature tolerance
One of the most important features of a pipe for acidic waste is high-temperature tolerance. The pipe material should be able to withstand large changes in temperature as acids are flushed down the pipe.
As an active chemical material, acids can react with many different materials and release heat during the process. Therefore, you should look for a material that can maintain its structure and integrity even in high-heat conditions.
Polypropylene is a useful piping material for temperature tolerance. Polypropylene can be coated with flame-retardant properties that prevent the pipes from becoming flammable.
2. pH resistance
Another concern for acidic waste pipes is pH resistance. Your pipes should be able to tolerate highly acidic or basic conditions without corroding. While materials such as cast iron, copper and other metals may be at risk of scaling and corrosion, thermoplastics can resist high pH conditions.
For example, polypropylene and polyvinyl fluoride are good choices for pipes that will carry acidic waste. The surface material should be able to withstand a constant flow of acid and basic content without slowly wearing out.
3. Fire retardation
Whether running a laboratory or a manufacturing plant, fire safety is always a top concern. You may put in place safety measures within the building itself, but what about your waste pipes? When acids go down the drain, the heat and pressure released from reactions can result in a fire outbreak.
It's important for your pipes to have flame-retardation properties to further prevent the risk of fire damage. Polypropylene pipes are a useful choice because they can be coated with a flame-retardant material that isn't combustible. With reinforced polypropylene, plumbers can fit your laboratory pipes to remain durable even when a fire breaks out.
4. Flexible assembly and disassembly
You also need a piping system that is easy to mould and fit into many different shapes. The routes of acidic piping systems are often long and complex due to safety compliance regulations. Therefore, you need a material that is easy to install and maintain as necessary. Thermoplastics are a popular option due to their convenience and competitive cost.