Utility considerations in developing a galvanized iron water pipe management plan

Abstract

Galvanized iron pipe (GIP) was once widely installed in publicly and privately owned potable water systems. This antiquated plumbing material can cause water discoloration from iron release, head loss resulting from corrosion scale buildup, and occasional problems with lead (Pb) release to drinking water. In this work, a GIP management framework for utilities is formulated via a literature review and several case studies. The GIP management plan is intended to guide water systems with understanding and addressing GIP issues while considering consumer expectations, corrosion control challenges, variable performance, and associated cost–benefit analysis for corrective actions.

What's New With Old Galvanized Iron Pipe? A Toolbox for Utilities

“…• FE AT U RE Addre s sing Galvanize d Iron Pip e C orro sion Editor's note: A full report of this project, Evaluating Key Factors That Affect the Accumulation and Release of Lead from Galvanized Pipes (4910), is open access and available for free to The Water Research Foundation subscribers by logging on to www.waterrf.org. More information from this project was also published in AWWA Water Science (Edwards et al 2023).…”

“…This article describes tools utilities can use to examine GIP corrosion to better comply with current and future regulations, prepare for source water or treatment changes, and provide aesthetically pleasing water to consumers. This article is based on the methods used to study GIP in Water Research Foundation project 4910, which also provides a strategic GIP management plan to help utilities address GIP in their service areas (see also Edwards et al 2023).…”