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Having stainless steel water pipes in your home is a game-changer for your plumbing system.
Stainless steel water pipes are resistant to corrosion and can last up to 50 years, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
They are also resistant to scaling and mineral buildup, which can clog traditional pipes and reduce water flow.
This means you'll have a steady supply of clean water without the hassle of frequent pipe repairs or replacements.
Stainless steel water pipes are also non-toxic and safe for drinking water, providing peace of mind for you and your family.
In fact, they are often used in hospitals and other healthcare facilities where water quality is paramount.
Pipe Characteristics
Stainless steel water pipes are incredibly strong and durable, lasting longer than other materials. They can withstand high pressures, making them ideal for high-rise buildings.
The tensile strength of 304 stainless steel water pipes is 2 times that of ordinary steel pipes. This means they can handle the demands of modern plumbing systems.
Stainless steel pipes can reach working pressures of over 10Mpa, far exceeding the 6Mpa threshold of standard high-rise buildings. This ensures safe and reliable water supply.
Stainless steel has a very low thermal conductivity, making it suitable for conveying hot water. In fact, its thermal conductivity is only 1/25 of that of copper tubes.
Corrosion resistance is one of the most significant advantages of stainless steel pipes. They can withstand harsh environments and ensure long-term performance.
Durability and Maintenance
Stainless steel water pipes are known for their exceptional durability, with a lifespan of up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
Their resistance to corrosion is due to the presence of chromium, which forms a protective oxide layer on the surface of the pipe.
This layer prevents the pipe from coming into contact with oxygen, which can cause rust and other forms of corrosion.
Regular cleaning and inspection can help extend the life of the pipe and prevent any potential issues.
It's also important to note that stainless steel water pipes can withstand extreme temperatures, from freezing cold to scorching hot.
However, it's still important to use a pipe that is specifically designed for the temperature range you'll be using it in.
In fact, using a pipe that's not designed for the temperature can lead to a significant reduction in its lifespan.
Installation and Connection
Stainless steel water pipes are a great choice for their durability and resistance to rust and corrosion.
They can withstand areas with a higher risk of water damage without compromising the water quality.
Stainless steel pipes do not leach chemicals into the water, making them a safe option for households.
To install stainless steel water pipes, you can choose between different types of pipes, including copper, galvanized steel, and stainless steel itself.
Copper pipes are more expensive and require extra care due to their tendency to corrode when exposed to acidic substances.
Galvanized steel pipes are less expensive but have a shorter lifespan compared to stainless steel pipes.
When to Use
Stainless steel is a reliable option for pipework in various industries, including food and beverage, wastewater/water treatment, and heavy industrial applications.
Traditionally, stainless steel piping has been used in these sectors due to its durability and resistance to corrosion.
Copper has been used for centuries in domestic, commercial, and light industrial plumbing applications, but stainless steel is now more readily considered for these applications.
Stainless steel pipes are strong and durable, preventing leaks or cracks, and resist corrosion and damage from chemicals or rust.
Their lifespan is much longer than that of copper pipes, so you won't have to worry about replacing them as often.
Stainless steel piping installation costs less than copper pipe installation because it's lighter and easier to work with during the installation process.
In modern buildings, water supply pipes are often hidden, making the selection of the right material crucial to avoid costly problems.
Stainless steel pipes compare favorably to other materials in terms of strength, durability, and reliability.
The most commonly used stainless steel pipes in the water industry are 304 and 316 stainless steel, which have high tensile strength and can withstand high working pressures.
Stainless steel pipes can reach pressures of over 10Mpa, making them suitable for high-rise water supply systems.
Their low thermal conductivity also makes them suitable for conveying hot water.
Cutting Ease
Copper is more malleable and easier to cut than stainless steel.
While stainless steel is noticeably harder to cut with a manual cutting tool, there are specialized tools that can make the job easier and reduce the risk of repetitive strain injury.
Installing Pipes
Installing pipes requires careful consideration of the material's durability and corrosion resistance. Stainless steel pipes are a popular choice for potable water applications due to their high resistance to corrosion.
Stainless steel pipes are more corrosion-resistant than copper, especially in applications with high chloride levels. In fact, stainless steel will corrode with high chloride levels, but it's generally more corrosion-resistant than copper.
Choosing the right insulation for stainless steel pipes is crucial, as some brands contain chlorides that can cause deterioration. Look for chloride-free insulation to ensure the longevity of your pipes.
In high-rise buildings, stainless steel pipes can withstand pressures of over 10Mpa, making them a reliable choice for water supply systems. Their high tensile strength also ensures they can handle the demands of modern plumbing systems.
The installation process for stainless steel pipes is relatively simple and cost-effective. Unlike copper pipes, stainless steel pipes don't require welding or gas, making them a more affordable option.
Here are some key benefits of installing stainless steel water pipes:
- High resistance to corrosion
- Flexible applications
- Quality 316L stainless steel
- Minimal downtime and costly repairs
- Increased safety with no arc, heat, flame or fumes required for installation
- 10 x faster installation process than traditional methods
- Cost savings due to no requirements for welding, gas, tool maintenance etc., and less labour
Impress Large Bore
Impress Large Bore is a high-quality stainless steel pipe solution designed to handle high flow rates and advanced applications. It's engineered to support demanding projects.
One of its standout features is a 10% increase in bore size, resulting in a corresponding increase in bore rate. This means it can handle more water flow than other pipes.
Impress Large Bore is made from 316L stainless steel, a material that's highly resistant to corrosion and can withstand harsh environments. This ensures the pipe remains strong and durable over time.
Available in a wide range of pipe sizes, from 15mm to 168mm, Impress Large Bore can be used in various applications, including rising mains in high-rise buildings. Its vast temperature range also makes it suitable for use in different climates.
Here are some key specifications of Impress Large Bore:
Performance and Safety
Stainless steel water pipes offer unparalleled safety and performance.
Our systems are designed to meet various needs, including hydraulic applications, and are made from a range of stainless steel options.
One of the key benefits of Ibex systems is their high-pressure capabilities, with a manufacturer-backed pressure rating of up to 40* bar.
This means you can rely on our systems to perform well even in demanding situations.
Ibex systems also guarantee safe potable water use, with WaterMark approval and 316L stainless steel makeup that ensures corrosion resistance.
This results in minimal downtime and costly repairs, as well as increased safety with no arc, heat, flame, or fumes required for installation.
In fact, our systems are designed to be 10 x faster to install than traditional methods, saving you time and labor costs.
Flow Rate
Stainless steel piping can withstand water velocities of approximately 30m/s.
This is particularly beneficial on variable demand systems where peak demand may only be for very short periods.
Selecting a smaller stainless steel pipe size can result in attractive capital savings.
However, the savings need to be weighed up against any consequent increases in ongoing energy costs required to run the system at a higher velocity.
Acoustic considerations are another potential result of selecting a smaller pipe size.
The ramifications of increased velocity on the system should be investigated.
Stainless steel's corrosion resistance will be retained during the higher velocity conditions seen in the short periods of peak demand.
High-Pressure Capabilities
Stainless steel piping can withstand high water velocities, with smaller diameter pipes suitable for variable demand systems where peak demand is short-lived.
This allows for attractive capital savings by selecting a smaller pipe size, but ongoing energy costs may increase due to higher velocity requirements.
Our Tubepress system has a manufacturer-backed 40* bar pressure rating for fluid applications, making it a reliable choice for high-pressure situations.
In fact, our Impress Large Bore system can handle 25* bar, supporting higher flow rates and advanced applications.
Stainless steel piping's corrosion resistance is retained even at high velocities, making it a great option for systems with varying demands.
Increase Safety
Increasing safety is a top priority when it comes to potable water systems. One of the key benefits of Ibex systems is that they eliminate the risk of arc, heat, flame, or fumes during installation.
Our stainless steel water pipes are designed to meet a variety of needs, including hydraulic applications. This means you can rely on Ibex systems for a range of uses.
The Tubepress and Impress systems from Ibex hold WaterMark approval, ensuring they meet health and safety standards for potable water applications. This gives you peace of mind knowing your system is safe and compliant.
Ibex systems are made from high-quality 316L stainless steel, which is corrosion-resistant. This means you can enjoy a long-lasting and reliable system that won't let you down.
Here are some key benefits of Ibex systems that contribute to increased safety:
- No arc, heat, flame or fumes required for installation
- High resistance to corrosion
- Flexible applications
These features work together to provide a safe and reliable potable water system that you can trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cons of stainless steel pipe?
Stainless steel pipe has two main drawbacks: it's heavy and difficult to transport, and challenging to weld due to its heat resistance.
How long do stainless steel water pipes last?
Stainless steel water pipes can last for at least 100 years without cracking or bursting, with failure being extremely rare.
Sources
- https://blog.waterworksnz.co.nz/stainless-steel-piping-vs-copper-piping
- https://www.primegoldgroup.com/why-you-need-to-install-stainless-steel-pipes-in-your-home/
- https://diy.stackexchange.com/questions/49968/is-stainless-steel-water-piping-more-durable-than-copper
- https://www.ibexaustralia.com.au/stainless-steel-potable-water-tubing/
- https://stainless-steel-world.net/stainless-steel-favored-for-water-pipes/
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