Piping is an important component of countless industries in the United States. Without quality piping, many businesses could not operate successfully. Are you curious about how piping systems work? This quick guide will help you better understand the various materials that are used for these systems.

Piping Basics

Put simply, a pipe is any tube made of metal, plastic, wood, concrete, or fiberglass. These pipes are often used to carry various substances, including liquids, gases, slurries, and even small particles. A piping system is usually defined as a series of interconnected pipes that work together connected by fittings and flanges. A system may also include pumps, heat exchanges, valves, or tanks.

A piping system can be simple or complex. In some systems, carbon steel elbows are used to connect pieces that join straight lengths of pipe, usually at a 90-degree or 45-degree angle. The specifics that go into a piping system are based on the function of the system and the material that is being moved through it.

Piping Materials

Different materials may be used to comprise a piping system. These materials must be chosen based on the function of the system as well as the substances being passed through it. There are strict piping codes that must be adhered to when it comes to choosing materials. These codes are established and enforced by the federal government to ensure the safety of the systems themselves and the workers interacting with the systems.

Steel is the most frequently used material in piping systems. Steel pipes can be seamless or welded. Forged steel is typically used for fittings, and cast steel is often used for special applications.

Cast iron is also often used in piping systems because it has a high resistance to corrosion and abrasion. These types of pipes are usually found in ash handling systems, sewage lines, or water lines. Cast iron pipes can be brittle, though, and they are not typically recommended for power plants.

Brass and copper are non-ferrous materials, so they work well in power plant applications or instruments. They are also useful for water services. This type of pipe works well if temperatures are not a crucial factor.

If you’re in need of high-quality products for your piping system, don’t hesitate to reach out to Lynco Flange & Fitting today. We’ll be happy to help you with all your piping needs.