When deciding what types of maintenance or repairs you should do for a piping system, line stopping is an option that usually comes to mind, as it proves to be a reliable and cost-effective solution to minimize downtime. Before considering it as an option, though, you must first understand which pipe materials are compatible with this technique. That way, you can ensure a successful application and maintain your system’s integrity. Below, we explore the most common pipe materials and their compatibility with line stopping.
Steel and Copper
Steel and copper pipes are among the most compatible materials for line stopping due to their durability and structural integrity. Steel pipelines, especially those made from carbon steel or stainless steel, are often used in industrial applications and municipal water systems. Their consistent wall thickness and uniform composition allow for secure fittings during the line stopping process.
While only really prevalent in smaller-scale applications, copper works similarly in this maintenance process due to its malleability and ability to maintain a tight seal with stopping equipment. Proper inspection for corrosion or thinning areas on either material is essential to ensure successful operations.
Cast and Ductile Iron
Cast iron and ductile iron pipes are frequently used in water and sewer systems, making them common candidates for line-stopping procedures. Cast iron, known for its rigidity and durability, can support line-stopping equipment reliably. However, it’s important to evaluate older cast iron pipes for signs of wear, as this material is susceptible to cracking under pressure over time.
Ductile iron offers enhanced flexibility and tensile strength compared to cast iron, making it particularly well-suited for line stopping. Its adaptability under pressure ensures more secure seals, reducing the risk of failure during the process.
PVC and HDPE
Plastic pipe materials like PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) and HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) are increasingly common, particularly in modern infrastructure applications, due to their corrosion resistance and lightweight nature. PVC pipes are compatible with line stopping, but care must be taken when using specialized equipment designed specifically for softer materials.
HDPE presents unique challenges due to its flexibility, which can make forming a tight seal more difficult. However, with the use of custom line-stopping heads and equipment engineered for plastic piping, HDPE is entirely viable as long as proper precautions are observed.
Concrete
Concrete pipes, commonly used for stormwater systems and larger infrastructure projects, require specialized equipment for line stopping due to their rigidity and external reinforcement with steel. While not as common as other materials for this technique, concrete piping can be successfully stopped with engineered solutions that take its unique properties into account.
Where To Go for Your Line Stopping Needs
While you might feel more confident in your decision to go with line stopping now, knowing which pipe materials are compatible with this process isn’t enough to handle it on your own. Due to the complexity of the task and the different methods needed for each pipe material, it’s best to leave this job to the pros. That’s why you should give Rangeline Group a call. We offer line stopping services for all kinds of pipelines, no matter which material they use.
