A responsible decision for Drinking Water supply

CLEAN, PURE AND HEALTHY WATER IN COPPER PIPES

The experts in material technology recognize that there is no material better than copper for carrying water. Several facilities that have been operating for years without problems, not only in Peru, but also worldwide, have built the prestige of the copper pipe based on its modern, light, durable and corrosion-resistant form. It is adequate for any kind of constructions, houses, and commercial and industrial buildings.

In the ‘40s, the era of synthetic materials began to expand over the world; this brought important technological changes that caused the natural growth of an economic system focused on mass production and the substitution of materials by others that apparently were equally effective and more economic.

Nevertheless, it is as from the ‘80s that consumers realize that cheap things prove to be expensive in the long run and so they start to assess materials which render a service requiring no maintenance and having a long life.

In fact, temporary savings obtained from the use of a material other than copper in the construction of a house or building, and generally in any construction, rapidly result in maintenance expenses. The initial cost analysis must consider maintenance savings, inspections and other pipe-failure related problems.

Buying cheap is a misunderstood economy

Most building regulations and codes in developed countries state three main requirements for drinking water systems.

Reliability. To ensure operation with the least possible maintenance.
Security. Copper does not react chemically with the water running in the pipe.
Efficiency. Water supply and distribution must consume the lowest possible power.

Scientific surveys carried out in several countries have proved that copper has a beneficial effect on the prevention of pathogenic agents such as Legionella, since it reduces the bacterial colonization and prevents its buildup in most cases.

The Midwest research institute in the United Sates verified this information by introducing several types of bacteria into pipes made up of a variety of materials. It was found that the E. Coli bacteria (known to cause severe gastric disorders in human beings) could hardly survive in the copper pipe, since just five hours after its introduction, scarcely 1% of the colony remained alive, while the other materials could not decrease or affect its growth.

The Microbe Applied Research Center in England supervised the growth of the Legionella bacteria and other microorganisms in pipes used for plumbing, made up of several materials, and carrying water of different hardness levels at temperatures ranging from 20ºC to 60ºC.

The results were amazing and indicated that the bacteria levels were considerably reduced on the surfaces of the copper pipes as compared to the whole rest.

Although bacteria born in chemically treated water that is consumed daily are rare, when this happens the dangers to health may be very serious. Experimental studies have began to show clearly that the number of original plaque units (OPU, scientific measure of bacterial life) is dramatically decreased by copper, but not by other materials.

The results of a survey in the United States and Canada give the reasons why several generations of building contractors prefer copper pipes for their plumbing.

Copper pipes have proved its reliability for several decades.

The properties and composition of copper products are controlled by strict quality standards.

The accuracy and control in the manufacturing process ensure the quality of the product and its long life.

Copper pipes have a permanent identification providing information on the product features.

The domestic codes and regulations ensure a reliable installation.

Copper pipes can be installed and used throughout the year at any temperature and weather. Furthermore, they can be tested right after its installation.

Copper does not alter with temperatures near the boiling or freezing point of water.

Copper pipes do not require maintenance and can be protected from damage.

The thermal conductivity of copper allows to use simple methods of adjustment when needed.

DRINKING WATER MANAGMENT


A mater of Experiance

Copper pipes have a great acceptance because of its tested reliability.

Copper is not flammable; it does not burn or promote combustion. When the copper pipe is exposed to fire, it maintains the water pressure, does not emit toxic fumes and does not conduct fire through walls or floors. Furthermore, it does not require protection against fire.

The copper pipe is rigid, uses less supports and does not bend over long runs.

The interior of the copper pipe is smooth and does not hinder the flow of water.

The copper welding is safe, reliable and non-toxic; it is lead-free and does not pollute water.

The copper pipe is material-fatigue resistant. It does not have problems related with excessive expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes.

Copper does not absorb organic materials or undergo deformation when in contact with them. Besides, it is biostatic and inhibits bacterial growth.

The copper pipe has a high recycling value.

Copper is a natural product. No synthetic products are used in its manufacture and it does not depend on oil or petrochemicals.