Looking for expertise in electrochemical corrosion of water pipes
Looking for expertise in electrochemical corrosion of water pipes
(OP)
I am evaluating the source of elevated lead and copper in water from a water supply system that includes municipal distribution, local distribution, and building piping. Building piping is the likely source of the metals and electrolysis is a anticipated to be a potential mechanism. Is there a way to pinpoint where electrolysis is occurring in the pipe? The water first out of the tap had lower concentrations of copper in it than what was collected after purging 1.3L out of the pipe. To me this suggests that electrolysis occurs further down the pipe. Thanks.





RE: Looking for expertise in electrochemical corrosion of water pipes
2) Newer buildings all should have back flow preventors, so the copper and lead should not be from a newer building, unless it is your building. Copper piping and lead solder over 5 years old should be protected by calcium deposits. How old is your building. Have you cut open any existing piping to see its condition?
3) Copper pits in aggressive water (low Ph) and copper suffers from velocity pitting. How high are your copper pipe velocities?
You need to supply better info for better answers.
Clifford H Laubstein
FL Registered PE 58662
RE: Looking for expertise in electrochemical corrosion of water pipes
Cliff also mentioned errosion of your pipe whice is related to velocity and should be checked.
Where did you collect a sample from? This would be a good starting point.
Bob
RE: Looking for expertise in electrochemical corrosion of water pipes