Pipes and valves are necessary in water distribution, drainage and heating systems, to name a few applications. Pipes come in many types of materials, like PVC, cast steel, stainless steel and copper. Some materials are better suited for underground use, transporting corrosive materials or conducting heat. Other pipe materials have limitations with regard to how small or large the diameter can be.

If your business requirements aren’t restricted to one type of material, you should find suppliers of industrial pipes and valves that carry a wide variety of products. Here are some of the things to consider before buying pipes and valves:

1. Compare the cost of PVC and metal pipes and valves.

2. Choose a durable material for underground systems.

3. Identify the best type of valves for your application.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase PVC piping and valves

PVC is less expensive than metal pipes for most applications, such as drain pipes and valves. Other industrial uses for PVS pipes include air duct, irrigation, sewage and water systems.

I recommend: Alsco Industrial Products, Inc. sells clear PVC pipe cut to 5-foot lengths or special ordered in 10-foot sections. Spears Manufacturing Company offers many types of PVC industrial valves and fittings. Diamond Plastics Corporation is a leading manufacturer of PVC pipes in diameters from 2 to 60 inches.

Locate stainless pipes and valves

If your piping systems involve transporting anything constantly for long-term use, you'll need stainless pipes and valves. You can't have materials that will corrode or degrade from transporting fluids around the clock. Look for stainless steel or other durable metals.

I recommend: Stainless and Alloy Piping, Inc. supplies numerous stainless steel pipes and fittings, including 1/8 to 36-inch piping, globe/gate valves and flange ball valves. They also have carbon steel and aluminum products. Menon Pipe & Supply Company, Inc. carries pipes, tubing and valves made of stainless steel, carbon steel, brass and aluminum.

Purchase a variety of industrial pipes and valves

Your business may well need several types of pipes and valves, not just PVC, steel or copper pipes alone. In that case, you need a supplier with a wide range of commercial valves and pipes.

I recommend: The R.A. Mort Supply Co. sells wholesale drain pipes, valves, as well as many other types of piping products. Collins Pipe and Supply Co., Inc. has industrial pipes made of PVC, carbon steel, copper and other materials. They also sell butterfly, ball and check valves.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Copper has better thermal conductivity than other metals and is a good choice for plumbing and mechanical piping systems. This light-weight metal comes in a wide range of pipe sizes, is resistant to corrosion and has many other benefits.