U.S. Water-Network Pipes Reflect Aging Infrastructure
According to projections from the EPA, water-pipe replacement rates will peak in 2035 at 16,000 to 20,000 miles of pipes replaced per year—four times the current annual replacement rate of 4,000 to 5,000 miles.
#water-wastewater
Edited by Chris Pasion
Share
According to a report by McKinsey and Company, the average U.S. water-network pipe is 45 years old, with some cast-iron pipes more than a century old. The Midwest and Southeast have seen high rates of breakage in recent years. The aging infrastructure has also led to high water-loss rates from leaks in the water distribution network system.
According to projections from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), water-pipe replacement rates will peak in 2035 at 16,000 to 20,000 miles of pipes replaced per year — four times the current annual replacement rate of 4,000 to 5,000 miles. The EPA also estimates that it could take an investment of up to $839 million per year to replace and monitor the 9.7 million to 12.8 million lead service lines that are currently in use in the United States as a response to the updated Lead and Copper Rule.
RELATED CONTENT
-
The Biggest Valves: Sizes Growing in Step with Greater Demand
Valve manufacturers that have the expertise, skills, equipment and facilities to produce large valves are rare.
-
Water Hammer
Water hammer is a shock wave transmitted through fluid contained in a piping system.
-
Check Valve Installation Considerations to Maximize Process Performance
Key considerations in successful check valve performance.
 Unloading large gate valve.jpg;maxWidth=214)