Which materials can cause corrosion in water distribution pipes?

Corrosion in water distribution pipes is primarily a concern for materials that are metallic, particularly iron and copper. These metals can undergo electrochemical reactions when they are in contact with water and various minerals or chemicals, leading to rust (in the case of iron) and other forms of deterioration for copper. Factors such as pH levels, temperature, and the presence of oxygen and electrolytes in the water can exacerbate this process, making metal pipes susceptible to corrosion over time.

In contrast, plastic pipes, though they can degrade from prolonged UV exposure, generally do not corrode in the same manner as metals. They are resistant to the corrosive effects caused by water chemistry under normal conditions. Glass pipes are typically not impacted by corrosion but can be affected by extreme pressure and temperature, while ceramic pipes might have their integrity compromised by moisture but do not corrode like metals do. Therefore, the focus on metallic pipes highlights the specific vulnerabilities associated with corrosion in water distribution systems.