External Corrosion of Water Piping Systems—Causes and Solutions

Abstract

Corrosion impacts the design, operation and maintenance of every element of a water system. Water wells, treatment equipment, storage facilities and piping systems are all vulnerable to accelerated deterioration from corrosion. Numerous studies have been published that document the causes of corrosion and successful methods of control. The problems related to corrosion in water systems are not new. As early as 1939, the results from a survey performed by the Illinois State Water Survey indicated that 41% of the water systems responding were experiencing corrosion problems involving well pumps, water mains, storage facilities and service lines. Over the years, the basic problems have changed very little, although our understanding and technology for controlling corrosion have improved significantly. Corrosion in water systems must be addressed by every operator to ensure economical supply of high quality water and safe operation of fire protection systems. By properly addressing corrosion mitigation through material selection, coatings and cathodic protection, system life will be extended and operational costs reduced. The economic benefits accrue to both the system operator and ultimately the consumer.