Smooth Pipes Save Lives: Preventing Biofilm Build-up

Biofilm: The Back Story

Any plumbing professional knows that there is more going on inside those pipes than many people realise. But while we may assume that there is little chance of biofilm building up inside a new water system any time soon, in some wet environments, biofilm can be formed and colonised by bacteria in just a few hours. This can happen inside water distribution systems, too. So it’s important to know what’s happening inside those pipes, and the risks involved.

Biofilms thrive in aqueous environments. Microbial bacteria identify wet surfaces and attach itself to them. Before long, bacteria have colonised the inner surface of the pipe and growth takes place. What disperses from this slimy, glue-like surface can lead to devastating infections and diseases.

Legionella, when consumed can lead to mild influenza or even pneumonia. Pseudomonas can lead to lung and blood infections. Coliform bacteria can cause extreme gastrointestinal illnesses. To protect clients and their families by minimising biofilm formation, plumbers can minimise disruption inside the pipe.

Making a Connection

When installing a water distribution system, joints will happen. FlowGuard CPVC facilitates smother joints with smoother pipes, thanks to stronger material. Durable, long-lasting CPVC contains high levels of chlorine molecules which surround and protect plastic molecules from breaking away and entering the water. This keeps the surface intact and smooth, increasing the likelihood that the bacteria will pass right through before it has the chance to become harmful.

But there is an additional way in which plumbers can take responsibility for building safer environments in the home. The answer is in the smoothness of the installation itself.

Battling Biofilm on the Inside

Biofilm can be minimised at the jointing stage using solvent cement welding. This creates a smoother joint on the inside the pipe, by fusing the two individual sections together at the molecular level, forming a strong connection and a smoother inner surface, keeping the flow of water healthy.

While PPR is a popular choice for plumbers, the fusion of two sections of pipe forms a bead around the inner surface; an open invitation for biofilm to attach and grow. And while CPVC helps protect homeowners against Biofilm, for plumbers, it’s helping them protect them in other ways too.

Smooth Pipes Save Lives… Plumbers Included

Thanks to solvent cement welding, the process is looked after by the simple application of solvent cement and letting the cohesive bond of CPVC do the rest. During PPR installation, specialized heat welding tools are required, creating a potentially unsafe working environment, not to mention the risk of electrocution. No more heat welding tools means no more plumbers putting themselves at risk to deliver clean, healthy water to homes.

Plumbers’ Last Stand

The installation process is fast and cost-effective, so you don’t have to wait to start enjoying the advantages of FlowGuard CPVC. FlowGuard CPVC pipe and fittings offers regular advice and support in applying CPVC to your working process effectively.

When it comes to the risks of unsafe water, biofilm is only the beginning. But with strong, resistant materials and smart installation methods available to us, Plumbers can take a greater responsibility in delivering clean, safe water to more families

Want to understand more about the water in your pipes? Download the Water Safety Guide today so you can answer all your client's questions. 

To find out more about this subject, listen to this episode of the FlowGuard podcast

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