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Pipes

Pipes

(OP)
Im lost and no1 can give me a clear defnite answer. For underground dewatering pipes which is best to use: Steel pipes or plastic pipes. and Why?

RE: Pipes

you're not the only one lost, just a little more information (but pleased don't over do it) might help to understand what you are talking about.   

It is a capital mistake to theorise before one has data. Insensibly one begins to twist facts to suit theories, instead of theories to suit facts. (Sherlock Holmes - A Scandal in Bohemia.)  

RE: Pipes

General answer - steel is stronger - plastic is cheaper.

Steel will corrode - plastic won't - but might collapse.

Pretty simple answer for a very general question

RE: Pipes

if you are talking about a toe drain, foundation drain etc., I have not seen steel used on any recent projects, not since the advent of "plastic pipes". However, I do not specify "plastic", maybe HDPE or PVC would be a better specification.

RE: Pipes

MikeTheEngineer,
I priced a job recently where plastic was 20% more expensive than steel.  Pretty special plastic though and you still had to weld the steel.

David

RE: Pipes

I hate those "special plastics"  Stuff I see looks like it was made out of old Coke bottles....

RE: Pipes


What about specifying for expected lifetime, solidity and performance requirement for the exact purpose, including diameter and amount?

One or several of your nearby suppliers would have a meaning on local avaiability, praxis and cost.

And please remember: steel is not only steel and plastic is certainly not only plastics. The market is brimming with product development for special purposes made to be competitive in price and durability. Even material combinations steel/plastic exists.

Conclusion: You are correct, no one can give you the answer, we are all a bit confused.

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