The Benefits and Drawbacks of using Vitrified Clay Pipes
Vitrified clay aren’t your typical ceramic pipe materials. The vitrified clay pipes (VCP) used in sewer lining are advanced and practical than. Vitrified clay is actually far more superior than your regular clay materials. VCP has its own set of advantages and disadvantages just like any other pipe out there. Learn more about its perks and drawbacks below.
The benefits of the material
It’s sturdy and can withstand hydraulic pressure
The sturdiness of a pipe material is one of the few factors that determine if a pipe material is excellent or not. VCP is a very tough pipe material because it underwent the vitrification process. Vitrification is when a material goes through the process of heating. The material is cooled down immediately to turn it into a glass-like solid. Vitrified clay are far more durable than normal because of vitrification. Not only is it sturdier but it can also last longer. A lot of vitrified clay pipes are still functional in some households today.
Can be exposed to high water pressure cleaning
High water pressure cleaning with the use of hydro jet machines is effective in clearing a pipe. It’s not advisable to use high water pressure on some pipe materials because it can damage it. Collapsing pipelines shouldn’t be also exposed to high water pressure. Vitrified clay pipes are a unique case since these pipes are able to cope with the strong pressure. This means you won’t have any trouble cleaning VCPs with a hydro jet frequently.
It can withstand external loads
Today, a lot of households have plastic materials for their sewer line. Plastic pipes are actually great materials for sewer systems. It’s resistant to most chemicals, has a long lifespan, durable, etc. The only issue with plastic pipes is that it gets flattened if it’s under heavy load. Plastic pipes that are constantly under heavy load get bent easily, and may need have to be removed. VCP is stronger than plastic pipes as it can undergo both high static and dynamic loads from the surface. Again, the reason for its amazing sturdiness is the vitrification process it has underwent.
Resistance to corrosion and chemicals
Corrosion is common with pipe materials, especially with metal pipes. VCP is able to survive exposure to chemicals that have a pH range of 0 – 14. It’s no surprise that VCP is a popular option in sewer pipe installations. Its resistance to both corrosion and hydraulic pressure makes it a great pipe material.
Drawbacks of using VCP
Vitrification can actually cause a bit of problem since it makes the materials heavier. Furthermore, it’s not just clay that’s mixed but other ceramic materials as well. This mixture increases the size as well as the weight of the finished VCP. The durability can become a problem since it makes the clay difficult to cut. Furthermore, the weight will make it difficult to move around during installation.
Very receptive to root intrusions
All pipe materials are actually susceptible to root attacks, but VCPs are more prone. VCP has earthen materials which attracts the roots easily.