Ductile iron pipe is resilient, safe, and reliable – with a service life of over 100 years. It is an environmentally superior pipe due to its longer service life, resilience, energy savings while in service, recycled content, and its own recyclability. Ductile iron pipe is a key component of a clean energy future and modern, resilient water infrastructure. Ductile iron pipe has proven itself to stand the test of time, is made in America, and supports domestic jobs in communities across the country.
Environmentally superior pipe
Ductile iron pipes are natural, safe, and sustainable. Ductile iron pipes contain at least 90% recycled materials with the pipes themselves being 100% recyclable.
Better value
Ductile iron pipe is a better value than plastic pipe because it lasts longer and saves money over time. According to a University of Michigan report, Ductile iron pipe is the more cost-effective material over a pipeline’s service life with lower operational and maintenance costs and lower energy costs.
Lower emissions and less energy
Ductile iron pipe has better environmental performance due to its lower greenhouse gas emissions in both the production and operation phases. From cradle-to-grave, Ductile iron pipe is superior environmentally, as it requires less energy to pump water and has a lower environmental impact.
Resilient
Ductile iron pipe is resilient through extreme weather events, natural disasters, soil contamination, and unpredictable situations. With its strength and durability, Ductile iron is the pipe of choice to protect against wildfires, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, extreme temperatures, and the regular, ongoing stresses facing water utility systems.
Health and safety
Production of Ductile iron pipe does not release dangerous chemicals like vinyl chloride, dioxin or ethylene dichloride. Ductile iron pipe does not absorb toxins like plastic pipe and provides better protection against drinking water contamination. Ductile iron pipe is safer to install and maintain than plastic pipe, which is more prone to catastrophic installation and operational failures causing injuries to workers and damage to property.
Longer life cycle
Ductile iron pipe requires very little maintenance and has an expected service life of at least 100 years. Ductile iron pipe provides significant cost savings and benefits compared to plastic pipe, which has an average service life of 55 years. A longer life cycle saves money and is better for the environment. It also means fewer interruptions, fewer replacements, and more peace of mind for local communities.
