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Understanding Copper Pitting in Drinking Water Pipes
Citation:
Tang, M., M. Schock, Helen Y. Buse, D. Lytle, R. Fields, S. Masters, AND S. Triantafyllidou. Understanding Copper Pitting in Drinking Water Pipes. OPFLOW. American Water Works Association, Denver, CO, 47(8):20-22, (2021). https://doi.org/10.1002/opfl.1589
Impact/Purpose:
Localized or pitting corrosion of copper is a major cause of drinking water plumbing failures, that can lead to expensive repairs, growth of mildew and molds in walls or basement, and other unintended consequences. In 2008, the estimated cost of pitting corrosion repair and prevention in the United States was approximately $957 million annually, with 58% of the cost incurred by single family homes. This article provides an overview of pitting corrosion causes, pit structures, impact of water chemistry and microbial activities on pitting corrosion, assessment tools, and gaps to address pitting corrosion issues.
Description:
Localized or pitting corrosion of copper is a major cause of drinking water plumbing failures, that can lead to expensive repairs, growth of mildew and molds in walls or basement, and other unintended consequences. In 2008, the estimated cost of pitting corrosion repair and prevention in the United States was approximately $957 million annually, with 58% of the cost incurred by single family homes. This article provides an overview of pitting corrosion causes, pit structures, impact of water chemistry and microbial activities on pitting corrosion, assessment tools, and gaps to address pitting corrosion issues.
