Red Pipe = Fireproof? 5 Compliance Myths Busted

Myth 1: Red Pipes = Fireproof? Standards vs. Reality

Red ductile iron pipes are not inherently fireproof. Per ASTM A153, red coding signifies suitability for high-pressure or high-temperature environments, such as steam lines in energy facilities .True fire-resistant pipes require orange labels + silicate coatings and explicit fire ratings.

Myth 2: Darker Colors = Better Corrosion Resistance? Coating Science

Corrosion resistance depends on coating chemistry, not color depth. For example:

Light green pipes with zinc-aluminum + epoxy coatings can last 50+ years;

Dark green paint without proper coatings may peel under UV exposure.

Myth 3: Global Color Consistency? Regional Risk Guide

North America (ASTM): Green = industrial corrosion resistance .

Europe (ISO): Green = recycled water systems;

Asia (Custom): Red may indicate fire lines but requires NFPA compliance .

Myth 4: Permanent Color Codes? Fading and Maintenance

Marine silver coatings need triannual inspections;

Repaint municipal blue pipes every 5 years and verify ISO 7346 compliance.

Myth 5: Colors Ignore Material? Ductile Iron’s Unique Rules

Cheap coatings can hide material flaws:

Inspect black pipes for casting voids masked by paint.

Demand ASTM A536 certificates and coating reports.