For over a hundred years, metal piping had been the king of the plumbing and pipe-laying industries. It was long considered the strongest and most durable type of piping available. However, in the past several decades, non-metal piping has been rapidly gaining on metal piping as the top option in the industry.
Non-metal piping, specifically PVC, CPVC, and PEX, are now considered the most popular type of piping amongst plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and similar professionals. These non-metal pipes are just as durable as metal pipes and don't have many of its potential downsides.
If you're curious and want to know more about how non-metal piping is changing the piping industry, you've come to the right place. This article will examine why non-metal piping is more popular than metal piping, where it's being used, and some of the potential drawbacks of non-metal piping.
Advantages of Non-Metal Piping Over Metal Piping
PVC, CPVC, and PEX are the three most common types of non-metal piping. Each of these pipes consists of various plastics, chemicals, and other components that give it a soft but durable composition. Here are some of the main advantages of these types of non-metal pipes over metal alternatives.
Corrosion Resistance
Since it was first invented, the biggest drawback of metal piping has been the fact that it's prone to corrosion. Corrosion can happen on the inside or outside of a metal pipe, and it's like a gut-shot in that it spells the slow and steady demise of any pipes it affects.
Because non-metal pipes don't have metal oxides and aren't prone to oxidation from moisture, they are 100% corrosion-resistant. As such, they don't break down when they're exposed to moisture and are less likely to suffer from sudden leaks.
Durability and Longevity
Metal piping, such as copper, steel, and cast iron, are very durable and long-lasting. On average, they can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years, as long as they don't start to corrode.
However, non-metal piping is every bit as durable and long-lasting, if not more so. PVC, CPVC, and PEX can each last upwards of 75 to 100 years and are theoretically designed to last forever.
Cost Effectiveness
In spite of its many benefits and advantages over metal piping, non-metal piping is still much cheaper. This is primarily because the materials used to create non-metal piping are cheaper and easier to source than heavy metals. As such, it's an appealing option to plumbers, HVAC contractors, and others who use piping on a regular basis.
Ease of Installation
In addition to being more affordable, non-metal piping is also significantly easier to install than metal piping. This is because non-metal piping is lighter, easier to cut, and easier to prepare for installation. A seasoned plumber, for instance, can measure, cut, prime, glue, and install a non-metal pipe in a matter of minutes.
Energy Efficiency
Finally, non-metal pipes have less heat transfer than metal pipes. This is extremely important in the plumbing and HVAC industries, where less heat transfer means less heat lost during operation. As such, non-metal pipes offer an energy-efficient alternative to metal pipes, which are notorious for heat loss.
Common Applications for Non-Metal Piping
Now that you know the numerous advantages that non-metal piping has over metal piping, let's look at the most common applications for non-metal pipes.
Residential Plumbing
Residential water, sewer, vent, and drain lines are easily the most prominent place where you'll find non-metal piping. In fact, metal piping has been nearly phased out entirely, aside from very specific applications with copper pipe.
Commercial and Industrial Use
Although it was once only used in residential plumbing, non-metal piping has now found its way into commercial and industrial implementations. This includes plumbing, HVAC, sprinkler, and electrical systems where conduit is required.
Agriculture and Irrigation
Farmers, gardeners, and landscapers have also started using non-metal piping much more frequently than metal piping. You can now find it used in everything from drip irrigation systems to sprinkler systems and everything in between.
Pools and Spas
Non-metal piping is also much more convenient and easy to use in the pool and spa industry, specifically with pool heaters and pumps.
Industry Trends and Innovations in Non-Metal Piping
There's no doubt that non-metal piping is quickly becoming the top dog for most piping implementations. Specifically, PVC and CPVC have become exponentially more popular in recent years, especially in the construction industry. In addition to traditional drain and water lines, PVC and CPVC is also used in roofing, siding, flooring, windows, and many other areas of construction.
The main reason that non-metal plastic piping has become so popular is because of how it's constructed. PVC and similar materials are created with reinforced plastics and chemical coatings to ensure they perform well in high-pressure situations. They're also an eco-friendly option, as they're 100% recyclable and often sourced from recycled materials.
Potential Drawbacks and How to Mitigate Them
While non-metal piping has the edge on metal piping in many areas, it does have a few potential drawbacks.
Sensitivity to Temperatures
The main issue with non-metal pipes, specifically PVC, is that it has temperature limitations. They aren't designed to handle temperatures higher than 140 degrees Fahrenheit. If you get into a high-heat situation but still want to use non-metal pipe, simply opt for CPVC instead of PVC.
Structural Support
Because of its non-rigid design, non-metal piping is prone to bending and dipping. As such, it's essential to have enough structural support for non-metal pipes to ensure the smooth flow of liquids and gases.
UV Sensitivity
Lastly, non-metal pipes are susceptible to degradation and discoloration when they're exposed to UV radiation. Therefore, it's important to use special coatings and protections if you're installing non-metal pipe in outdoor, sunny areas.
Final Thoughts
Although non-metal piping has a few potential drawbacks, its advantages far outweigh its disadvantages. As such, it's showing no signs of losing popularity in the plumbing, construction, HVAC, irrigation, and similar industries.
If you're interested in using durable, affordable, eco-friendly, and efficient piping systems, non-metal piping is the way to go. And, if you want the best non-metal piping in the industry, look no further than PVC Fittings Online. Contact us to learn more about our PVC, CPVC, and other non-metal piping options and to place an order today!