Sewer Pipe Materials Explained: Choosing the Right Pipe for Sewer Construction

Sewer Pipe Materials Explained: Choosing the Right Pipe for Sewer Construction

What Illinois Contractors Need to Know About the Most Common Sewer Pipes

Sewer systems are only as reliable as the materials that carry waste and stormwater underground. At the heart of every system is the sewer pipe—a critical component that must meet engineering specs, stand up to soil and traffic loads, and resist corrosion for decades.

For Illinois sewer and water contractors working on municipal infrastructure, private developments, or repair projects, selecting the right pipe material is essential for long-term system performance and code compliance. This guide breaks down the most commonly used sewer pipe materials, their pros and cons, and where each is typically used.

1. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Pipe

PVC is the most widely used pipe for gravity-fed sanitary sewers.

• Strengths: Lightweight, easy to cut and join, corrosion-resistant, smooth interior for optimal flow

• Typical Sizes: 4” to 36”+

• Applications: Sanitary sewer laterals, municipal gravity mains, storm sewers

• Standards: ASTM D3034 (SDR 35), ASTM F679

Installation Tip: Always bed PVC in crushed stone or sand for proper support and alignment.

2. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) Pipe

HDPE pipe is gaining popularity for stormwater and sanitary sewer systems—especially where trenchless or directional drilling is used.

• Strengths: Flexible, chemically resistant, heat-fusible joints for leak-free systems

• Typical Sizes: 2” to 60”+

• Applications: Storm sewers, sewer force mains, trenchless rehab, culverts

• Standards: ASTM F714, AWWA C906

Good For: Sites with unstable soils, long runs without access points, or where watertight joints are essential.

3. RCP (Reinforced Concrete Pipe)

RCP remains a staple in deep sewer and stormwater applications due to its structural strength.

• Strengths: Handles high traffic loads, resistant to UV and chemicals, long service life

• Typical Sizes: 12” to 144”+

• Applications: Storm sewers, combined sewer systems, culverts under roadways

• Standards: ASTM C76

Common Requirement: Often specified by IDOT, MWRD, and other agencies for right-of-way projects.

4. Ductile Iron Pipe (DIP)

While more common in water mains, DIP is also used for sewer force mains where pressure and durability are needed.

• Strengths: High-pressure capacity, strength under traffic loads

• Typical Sizes: 4” to 64”

• Applications: Force mains, industrial sewer lines, pump discharge

• Standards: AWWA C151

Note: Coatings and linings (e.g., ceramic epoxy) are often applied to prevent internal corrosion.

Clay Pipe

Once the go-to material for sanitary sewers, clay still exists in older systems and is sometimes used for rehab.

• Strengths: Long-lasting and chemically inert

• Weaknesses: Brittle, prone to cracking and root intrusion

• Applications: Legacy systems, some rehab projects

• Standards: ASTM C700

Choosing the Right Pipe: Key Factors

Contractors should evaluate the following before selecting a pipe material:

• Load Conditions: Will the pipe carry vehicle loads or be deep underground?

• Flow Type: Is it gravity or pressurized (force main)?

• Soil and Groundwater Conditions: Some materials resist chemicals and root intrusion better than others.

• Agency Requirements: MWRD, IDOT, and municipalities often have pipe specifications.

• Installation Method: Open trench, trenchless, slip-lining, or directional drilling?

Working with a trusted Illinois sewer pipe supplier ensures you get the right pipe for your project—and avoid costly change orders or delays.

Source Sewer Pipe from A&A Equipment and Supply

At A&A Equipment and Supply, we stock the sewer pipe materials Illinois contractors rely on—from PVC and HDPE to RCP and fittings—with delivery options and technical guidance tailored to your jobsite. Our team also supports equipment repair and manhole accessories like adjustment rings, making us a one-stop shop for underground utility work.

Contact us today or visit aa.equipment to get quotes, specs, or expert recommendations on the right sewer materials for your next project.