AWWA JAW10138

In an effort to control corrosion of asbestos-cement (A-C) pipe, water utilities worked with pipe manufacturers to develop a lined A-C pipe. Application of the lining usually involved thinning the vinyl toluene resin with tetrachloroethylene (PCE) and spraying it on the inside of the pipe. In a follow-up to the National Organics Monitoring Survey, the USEPA and several New England states found residual PCE in the drinking water of communities where lined A-C pipe was being used. The authors of this article describe some of the history behind the development and use of lined A-C pipe, the reasons why its production was discontinued, and actions taken to correct the problem. Strategies suggested by the USEPA include steps that individual homeowners can take to improve water used for drinking and cooking as well as actions that can be taken by communities, states, and the USEPA. These strategies are briefly outlined. Two widely employed methods for lessening tetrachloroethylene concentrations are flushing and installing continuous bleeders. Includes 2 references, tables, figures.