Proper maintenance can help to ensure your piping system doesn’t fail prematurely. Every piping system will deteriorate over time, but with the right steps, you can ensure the longest possible lifespan. According to the EPA, pipelines have caused almost 300 explosions in the United States because of failure, so it’s important to stay on top of potential problems. Here’s a closer look at how piping systems deteriorate.

Poor-Quality Parts

The biggest enemy of any piping system is subpar parts. Inadequate flanges, branch connections, and other fittings can prematurely age any piping system and cause catastrophic failures. High-quality connectors, flanges, and other parts help preserve the system’s integrity. Poor-quality parts are prone to fast corrosion and failure, and they cannot stand up to the rigors of a pipeline. Investing in the best parts from the beginning is key to preventing deterioration.

The Freeze-Thaw Cycle

The naturally occurring freeze-thaw cycle is another factor in how fast a piping system deteriorates. As the moisture in the soil freezes, it can put undue pressure on the piping system. The freezing and thawing cause the expansion and contraction of metal parts, which can result in cracking over time. The age of the piping system is relative to the amount of potential damage caused by this cycle. Older systems are more likely to show deterioration, so they must be inspected more frequently for signs of wear and tear. High-quality parts can offset some of the risks.

Mechanical Vibration Stress

Systems exposed to long-term mechanical vibrations will deteriorate faster. Piping systems that are constantly under stress from mechanical vibrations will develop stress fractures and damage to the fittings and seals. Over time, even small fractures or corruption of the seal and fittings can cause catastrophic failure.

Proper installation and design practices coupled with high-quality parts can help reduce the risk of premature deterioration, including chemical corrosion. It’s essential that a piping system is installed with proper planning and that high-quality components are used in the design. All piping systems deteriorate with time. However, some preventive measures will help control how quickly that deterioration occurs.

Scheduling frequent inspections and replacing parts as necessary is a good rule of thumb to maintain any piping system. Connecting with a supplier with a wide range of inventory and team of knowledgeable sales professionals can make it easier to maintain and repair your system. Contact Lynco Flange & Fitting today for the support you need to keep your pipeline in top condition.