Cast Iron Soil Pipe & Fittings Handbook
Chapter 1 - Cast Iron Soil Pipe History, Uses and Performance
Economic Advantages of Cast Iron Soil Pipe
The foregoing sections of this chapter, which discuss the uses of cast
iron soil pipe, its properties, and the various joining systems, demonstrate
that cast iron soil pipe affords a number of economic advantages. These
advantages include performance, versatility, low cost installation, and
product availability.
Performance
The performance and durability of cast iron soil pipe are superior to any
other product used for sanitary and storm drain, waste, and vent piping.
These facts are supported by the test results presented previously in this
chapter and have a direct bearing on product selection. The choice is clear
because service to the customer requires that performance constitutes the
principal reason for material selection, and in the matter of performance
cast iron soil pipe has no equal.
Versatility
Cast iron soil pipe is the most versatile sanitary and storm drain, waste,
and vent piping material on the market. It is available with a variety
of joining methods so that it can be installed efficiently throughout the
plumbing drainage system, both above and below the floor and beneath the
ground. It is adaptable for use in all types of building construction,
including one-family and two-family homes, multiple dwelling units or apartment
building, high-rise structures such as hotels and office buildings, and
many commercial industrial applications. The lead and oakum, compression
gasket and hubless couplings can be used either individually or in combination
in a given plumbing system in order to meet the needs of any specific condition.
All three joining methods are available with a variety of pipe lengths
and with a complete line of cast iron soil pipe fittings.
Low-Cost Installation
Cast iron soil pipe offers the advantages of low-cost installation as a
result of the speed and efficiency with which the hubless couplings and
compression gasket joints can be made, and the use of 10-foot pipe lengths
which reduces the required number of joints in a given plumbing system.
Further, cast iron soil pipe can be preassembled before it is placed in
the ground or plumbing wall. This eliminates the need to work in cramped
quarters or muddy trenches and so speeds installation.
Product Availability
Cast iron soil pipe foundries are strategically located in various sections
of the country so that orders can be filled on very short notice. In many
areas it is possible to place an order and have it delivered overnight,
ready for use the following day. Contractors need not be concerned about
supply shortages since the industry's manufacturing capacity is adequate
and since the basic raw materials for the manufacture of soil pipe are
abundant and readily obtainable from domestic sources.
 
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