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Plumbineering
Dictionary
The Comprehensive Resource of
Plumbing Engineering Terminology
for Engineers, Designers,
and Contractors
ISBN 978-1-891255-16-8
ASPE
Technical Reviewers
William F. Hughes Jr., CPD, LEED AP Dean E. Proctor
ASPE Boston Chapter ASPE Ottawa Region Chapter
Plumbineering Dictionary 1
absorber plate
The part of a solar energy collector that receives the incident solar radiation energy
and transforms it into thermal energy.
absorptance
The ratio of the absorbed flux to the total incident flux, measured in terms of
percent.
absorption
1. The soaking up of a gas or liquid into a solid substance.
2. The process by which incident light energy is converted to another form of
energy, usually heat.
absorption chiller
A water chilling process in which the evaporation of a fluid is absorbed by a differ-
ent fluid and then evaporated and condensed under heat and pressure.
absorption field
A leeching or seeping field engineered to receive septic tank effluent.
absorptivity
A measurement of how well a solar absorber plate converts solar radiation into
thermal energy.
acceleration limiter
A hydraulic, mechanical, or spring device used to control acceleration, shock, and
sway in piping systems.
accepted engineering practice
Proven and accepted engineering methods, procedures, and practices that provide
appropriate, cost-effective, and well-documented solutions to meet user require-
ments and compliance with applicable regulations.
access channel
A conduit or channel cast in place horizontally throughout a concrete structure
to provide access for pipe.
access door
A panel that can be opened to provide easy approach to concealed valves or equip-
ment. Also called access panel.
access opening
An opening or conduit cast in place within concrete structural elements to pro-
vide access for pipe, typically for short, vertical conduit in concrete slabs to elimi-
nate the subsequent drilling of core holes.
access panel
A door that can be opened to provide easy approach to concealed valves or equip-
ment. Also called access door.
2 American Society of Plumbing Engineers
access to
That which enables a fixture, device, or appliance to be easily reached.
accessible
1. That which enables direct approach, either with or without the removing or
moving of any panel, door, or similar obstruction.
2. A plumbing fixture, site, building, facility, or portion thereof that can be ap-
proached, entered, and/or used by physically challenged individuals.
accessory
A subordinate or supplementary element in a plumbing system used mainly for
convenience, attractiveness, or safety.
accumulation
The amount a pressure, temperature, liquid level, or differential pressure deviates
higher than a set value.
accumulator
1. A container, in conjunction with a hydraulic cylinder or rotating vane device
for the control of shock or sway in piping systems, used to accommodate the
difference in fluid volume displaced by a piston.
2. A container in which fluid is stored under pressure as a source of power or as
a continuous supply of reserve fluid.
accuracy
1. The degree of conformity of a measured or calculated value to some recog-
nized standard or specified value.
2. Regarding pressure-regulating valves, the degree of falloff in the outlet pres-
sure from the set pressure at full-flow capacity.
3. The capability of producing the same results for repetitive operations with
identical flow conditions.
accurate
1. Without error; precise, correct.
2. Conforming exactly to a standard.
acetylene
1. A colorless gas commonly used as a fuel.
2. The third hottest natural chemical flame, making it suitable for gas welding
and cutting.
acfm
Abbreviation for actual cubic feet per minute, the unit used to express the volume
of gas flowing at operating temperature and pressure, as distinct from the volume
of a gas flowing at standard temperature and pressure.
Plumbineering Dictionary 3
acid
A substance with a pH less than 7.0.
acid leachate
Potentially dangerous water that has become acidic due to contaminants in land-
fills.
acid rain
Precipitation of dilute solutions of strong mineral acids, formed when industrial
pollutants mix with naturally occurring oxygen and water vapor.
acid proof
A material that is not susceptible to attack by acidic substances.
acid-proof drain pipe and fittings
Piping and fittings resistant to many acids, typically used in laboratory waste,
vent, and drainage systems.
acid resistant
A surface or material that typically is not affected by contact with acidic sub-
stances.
acid-resistant pipe
A pipe made of material resistant to the corrosive action of acid, such as high-
silicon cast iron, borosilicate glass, polypropylene, and, in some circumstances,
chlorinated polyvinyl chloride.
acid sink
A receptacle properly trapped and connected to an acid waste system, typically
made of an acid-resistant material.
acid vent
A pipe venting an acid waste system.
acid waste
Liquid waste matter having a pH of less than 7.0.
acid waste fitting
A pipe connector made of acid-resistant material, suitable for use in acid waste
piping systems.
acid waste pipe
A conduit made of acid-resistant material, typically in combinations of silicates
and iron, stainless steel, glass, polypropylene, and, in some circumstances, chlori-
nated polyvinyl chloride.
acid waste system
A system of pipe and fittings, paralleling a plumbing drainage system, installed
Plumbineering Dictionary 5
activated sludge process
A biological sewage treatment process in which a mixture of sewage and activated
sludge is agitated and aerated, the activated sludge is separated from the treated
sewage by sedimentation, and the treated sewage overflows the settling tank in
which the separation takes place.
active
The state in which a metal is in the process of corroding.
active potential
The capability of a metal to corrode based on a transfer of electrical current.
active solar system
A solar heating or cooling system that requires external mechanical power to move
the collected heat.
activity pool
A water attraction greater than 24 inches (61 cm) deep, designed primarily for
play using constructed features such as pad walks or flotation devices.
actual capacity
The quantity of air actually compressed and discharged by an air compressor at
a rated speed and under rated conditions, used to measure the capacity of the
compressor. Also called free air delivered.
actual cubic feet per minute (acfm)
The unit used to express the volume of gas flowing at operating temperature and
pressure, as distinct from the volume of a gas flowing at standard temperature
and pressure.
actuator
A movable component of a valve that, when operated, causes the closure element
to move.
ADA
Acronym for the Americans with Disabilities Act, federal legislation that prohibits
discrimination based on physical or mental disabilities in private places of em-
ployment and public accommodations.
ADAAG
Acronym for the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines for
Buildings and Facilities, a document containing the scope and technical require-
ments for accessibility to buildings and facilities by individuals with disabilities
under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
adapter fitting
A connector that serves to mate two pipes or fittings different in size, material,
or design.
Plumbineering Dictionary 7
adjustable tap
1. An internal thread-cutting tool made with inserted blades or chasers, capable
of radial adjustment.
adjusted roof area
The roof space that must be added to the projected roof area to take into consid-
eration parapets, walls, and other building projections.
adjustment
The placing and setting of parts or pieces in related positions.
adjustment device
A component that provides for adaptability.
adjustment range
The lowest to highest pressure to which a valve can be manipulated by the existing
means under static (no-flow) conditions.
administrative authority
The individual official, board, department, entity, or agency established and au-
thorized by law to administer and enforce the provisions of a particular code. Also
called the authority having jurisdiction.
adsorption
1. The surface retention or adhesion of a gas on the surface of a solid.
2. The process by which molecules, colloids, and/or particles adhere to surfaces
by physical action, but without a chemical reaction.
advance
The forward distance in a piping offset.
aeration
1. An artificial method of bringing a liquid and air into direct contact.
2. A gas-transfer process in which water is brought into contact with air for the
purpose of transferring volatile substances to or from the raw water.
3. A mechanical process for mixing air and water intimately with spray nozzles,
cascade aerators, pressure aerators, or forced draft units, used to remove car-
bon dioxide gas from water.
aeration cell
An oxygen concentration cell resulting from differences in the quantity of dis-
solved oxygen at two points.
aerator fitting
1. A device designed to deliver a mixture of air and water.
2. A specialized apparatus for aerating a liquid, especially water.
Plumbineering Dictionary 9
aggressiveness index
1. A simplified form of the Langelier Index.
2. An indicator of the corrosiveness of water.
AHJ
Acronym for authority having jurisdiction, The individual official, board, depart-
ment, entity, or agency established and authorized by law to administer and en-
force the provisions of a particular code. Also called administrative authority.
AHRI
Acronym for the Air-conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute, (ahrinet.
org), a nonprofit trade association representing manufacturers of air-condition-
ing, heating, and commercial refrigeration equipment.
AIA
Acronym for the American Institute of Architects (aia.org), a professional mem-
bership association for licensed architects, emerging professionals, and allied part-
ners.
air
A mixture of nitrogen, oxygen, and minute amounts of other gases that surrounds
the Earth and forms its atmosphere.
air-admittance valve
1. A one-way valve designed to open and allow air to enter a drainage system
when negative pressures are present, without extending to the outside air, and
then positively close by gravity.
2. A gravity-operated mechanical device that allows air to enter a piping system
when a less-than-atmospheric pressure exists, but closes upon a positive pres-
sure, not permitting air to exhaust.
air break
1. In a drainage system, a piping arrangement in which a drain from an appli-
ance, device, or fixture discharges into the open air and then into another fix-
ture, receptacle, or interceptor, used to prevent back siphonage or backflow.
2. A physical separation between an indirect waste receptor and a connected
fixture, appliance, or device.
air chamber
1. A device installed on a piping system to attenuate a pressure surge resulting
from water hammer.
2. In hydraulic systems, a chamber in which air elastically compresses and ex-
pands to regulate the flow of a fluid.
air check
A device that allows water, but not air, to pass through it.
Plumbineering Dictionary 11
air inclusion
The ambient atmosphere forced or trapped into a piping system when quick-
action coupling valves are being connected.
air inlet
An opening in a cooling tower through which air enters.
air lock
A condition in which a bubble of air is trapped in the fluid contents of a pipe,
causing a stoppage or impediment. Also called vapor lock.
air plug
A stopper that makes an airtight seal to a vent.
air pump
A mechanism that condenses and forces air through an aperture or pipe.
air shutter
A device that regulates the quantity of air being mixed with gas for combustion.
air solar system
A solar energy system that uses air as the primary heat transfer fluid.
air, standard
Air with a temperature of 60°F (15.6°C), a pressure of 14.70 pounds per square
inch atmospheric (101.4 kilopascals), and 0 percent humidity.
air test
A test that applies compressed air to a plumbing system to determine the location
of a leak.
air valve
A control valve in an air system that controls the volume and pressure of the air.
air volume control
A device used to maintain the air charge in a standard water storage tank.
AISI
Acronym for the American Iron and Steel Institute (steel.org), an organization
representing the North American steel industry in the public policy arena and
advancing the case for steel in the marketplace.
alarm
An audible or visible signal indicating the existence of any condition or operation
outside a preset normal.
alarm check valve
A check valve located in the riser of a wet pipe fire sprinkler system, with a signal-
ing device that annunciates a remote alarm when a sprinkler head discharges.
Plumbineering Dictionary 13
alligator wrench
A tool with a V-shaped jaw, one side of which is serrated, typically used for square-
headed components.
allowance
The minimum clearance or maximum interference intentionally permitted be-
tween mating parts.
alloy
A substance composed of two or more metals or a metal and nonmetal intimately
united, usually fused together and dissolving in each other when melted.
alloy pipe
A pipe composed of two or more metals.
all-service jacket
A vapor retarder made out of fiberglass cloth, skrim, and kraft paper most often
used to cover fiberglass insulation.
alternate
A bid price requested by bidding documents for an alternative project component,
which later may be chosen by the owner in lieu of a first-specified component.
alternate dispute resolution
A procedure used to resolve construction disputes before they turn into litigious
procedures, involving arbitration or mediation via a third party.
alternative energy
Energy derived from a source other than the conventional fossil-fuel sources, such
as wind and solar energy.
alternative engineered design
A system that is not specifically addressed in the plumbing codes or differs some-
what from the prescriptive code criteria, but does have documentation, includ-
ing test reports and acceptable third-party listings, showing that it will function
properly. Also called engineered system.
alternator
1. A machine that generates an alternating voltage when its rotating portion is
driven by a motor, engine, or other means, used to convert mechanical power
into electric power.
2. A electrical control device within an electrical panel that alternates pump op-
eration from one pump to another.
altitude
The height of an object above sea level.
Plumbineering Dictionary 15
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
An organization overseeing the creation and promulgation of consensus standards
in the United States (ansi.org).
American Petroleum Institute (API)
An organization that issues standards for the oil and gas industry (api.org).
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
A voluntary standards development organization (astm.org).
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engi-
neers (ASHRAE)
An international organization dedicated to advancing the heating, ventilation,
air-conditioning, and refrigeration industries (ashrae.org).
American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
A nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the art, science, and practice of
mechanical and multidisciplinary engineering and allied sciences (asme.org).
American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE)
An international organization for professionals skilled in the design, specification,
and inspection of plumbing systems, dedicated to the advancement of the sci-
ence of plumbing engineering, to the professional growth and advancement of its
members and the health, welfare and safety of the public (aspe.org).
American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE)
An organization of professional who manage, supervise, and consult on safety,
health, and environmental issues in industry, insurance, government, and educa-
tion (asse.org).
American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE)
A nonprofit organization comprised of individual who represent all disciplines of
the plumbing industry (asse-plumbing.org).
American standard pipe thread
Taper, straight, or dry-seal pipe thread whose dimensions conform to those of a
particular series of specified sizes established as a standard in the United States.
American Supply Association (ASA)
A nonprofit organization serving wholesale distributor and their suppliers in the
plumbing, heating, cooling, and industrial and mechanical pipe, valves, and fit-
tings industries (asa.net).
American Welding Society (AWS)
A nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the science, technology, and ap-
plication of welding and related joining disciplines (aws.org).
Plumbineering Dictionary 17
analysis
The process of separating a system into its component parts to study their inter-
relationships.
anchor
1. A device used to fasten or secure pipes to a building or structure.
2. A device, such as an expansion bolt, for connecting pipe-bracing members to
the structure of a building.
3. To fasten or hold a material or device to prevent movement, rotation, or dis-
placement at the point of application.
anchor bolt
A bolt or threaded rod used to attach or connect materials, devices, or equipment,
often referring to a bolt embedded in concrete or passed through an opening in
steel to which a hanger or support attaches.
anchor rod
A threaded piece of metal used with nuts and hangers to secure pipes or other
objects in a plumbing system.
ancillary equipment
Additional pieces of equipment, some of which are optional and others that are
required as part of a system.
anesthetic
An inhalation agent used to block sensation and pain, typically used in healthcare
facilities during surgical procedures.
anesthetizing location
An area of a healthcare facility that is used for the administration of nonflam-
mable, inhalation anesthetic agents in the course of examination or treatment.
angle check valve
A valve with intake and exit ports at right angles, permitting flow in one direction
but retarding a return flow.
angle discharge tube
A fitting that changes the direction of flow 90 degrees.
angle gate valve
A valve with intake and exit ports at right angles, consisting of a flat or wedge-
shaped gate that can be lowered into the seat to seal off a line or raised into an
external recess to open a line.
angle globe valve
A valve with intake and exit ports at right angles, enclosed in a globular cham-
ber.
Plumbineering Dictionary 19
annulation
1. The process of forming rings.
2. A ringlike structure.
annulet
1. A little ring.
2. In architecture, a small molding or ridge.
3. The space in the hub of cast iron pipe to be filled with sealant.
annulus
A ringlike part, structure, or marking.
anode
1. The negatively charged terminal of a primary cell or storage battery that is
supplying current.
2. A positively charged electrode at which oxidation or corrosion occurs.
anode rod
A sacrificial device used to protect the lining and lengthen the life of a water
heater.
anodic protection
An appreciable reduction in corrosion in an anode by maintaining a highly polar-
ized condition with very little current flow.
ANSI
Acronym for the American National Standards Institute (ansi.org), an organi-
zation overseeing the creation and promulgation of consensus standards in the
United States.
anti-floatation device
A collar attached to the bottom of a basin to prevent it from popping out of the
ground when the water table is high.
antifreeze system
A subsystem to a wet-based fire sprinkler system in which the sprinkler distribu-
tion piping is filled with a mixed antifreeze solution prepared with a freezing point
below the expected minimum temperature for the locality.
antifriction alloy
An alloy of copper, tin, lead, antimony, or zinc, used especially in bearings.
antimonial lead
A lead alloy containing up to 25 percent antimony and possessing greater hard-
ness and tensile strength than lead, used for storage-battery plates, pipes, cable
coverings, and roofing.
Plumbineering Dictionary 21
API
Acronym for the American Petroleum Institute (api.org), an organization that
issues standards for the oil and gas industry.
appliance
A device that utilizes fuel gas or electricity to produce light, heat, power, refrigera-
tion, or air-conditioning.
appliance, automatically controlled
An appliance activated and deactivated by an automatic control such as a pressure
switch, timer, or thermostat.
appliance input
The gas consumption or gas demand of an appliance or a piece of equipment
necessary for it to function properly.
apprentice
A person learning a trade by practical experience under skilled workers.
appliance shutoff
A valve installed on gas appliances prior to any flexible or tight connection.
apprentice plumber
A person who works under the supervision and guidance of a skilled and qualified
journey or master plumber for a prescribed course of training.
approach
A term, expressed in degrees, that indicates how close the outlet temperature of
a fluid being heated in a heat exchanger comes to the temperature of the heating
medium.
approved
A system or procedure that is acceptable under an applicable specification or
standard cited for the proposed use under the procedures of the administrative
authority.
approved equal
A component of a project accepted by the design professional in lieu of a specified
component.
approved testing agency
An organization acceptable to the administrative authority that tests systems or
components to approved standards.
approved water supply
A public potable water supply that has been investigated and accepted by the
health agency having jurisdiction.
Plumbineering Dictionary 23
Archimedes’ screw
An ancient method to raise water via a spiral screw that turns within a tube or
pipe.
architect’s supplemental instructions
A document provided when additional work is required that is not part of the con-
tract documents and does not require an increase in the project’s cost or time.
arc weld
A weld in which the heat of fusion is supplied by an electric arc.
arc welding
A heat-joining method using the concentrated heat of an electric arc, considered
the best of all surface fusion methods for general purposes because it creates the
highest temperatures.
area
The size of any particular portion of a surface.
area, 100 percent
When the area through a valve is equal to or greater than the area of standard pipe.
Also called full port.
area drain
A receptacle designed to collect surface water or rainwater from a determined or
calculated open area.
areaway
An enclosed excavated area below grade, adjacent to a building and open to the
weather.
arrestor plate
A perforated plate of steel that controls the burning of vapors and prevents flames
from back-flashing into a room.
arsenic
1. A highly poisonous metallic element.
2. An arsenious acid that reacts with lead, yielding arsenate or arsenide of lead.
arterial vent
A vent in drain, waste, and vent systems intended to provide circulation and
backpressure relief in multistory systems.
asbestos
A silicate of calcium and magnesium usually occurring in fibers that does not
burn or conduct heat, used as an insulator and in the manufacturing of cement
asbestos pipe.
Plumbineering Dictionary 25
asphyxia
A condition in which oxygen decreases and carbon dioxide increases in living tis-
sues, usually as a result of the interruption of respiration.
asphyxiant gas
A gas with little or no toxicity, but which could induce unconsciousness or death
by replacing air, thus depriving an organism of oxygen.
asphyxiate
To kill or make unconscious through a lack of oxygen, the presence of noxious
agents, or other obstruction to normal breathing.
asphyxiation
The act of causing death or unconsciousness by withholding oxygen.
aspirator
1. A fitting or device supplied with fluid under positive pressure that passes
through an integral orifice, causing a partial vacuum.
2. An apparatus that produces a movement of fluid by suction.
ASSE
Acronym for the American Society of Sanitary Engineering (asse-plumbing.org),
a nonprofit organization comprised of individual who represent all disciplines of
the plumbing industry.
ASSE
Acronym for the American Society of Safety Engineers (asse.org), an organization
of professionals who manage, supervise, and consult on safety, health, and envi-
ronmental issues in industry, insurance, government, and education.
Association of Pool and Spa Professionals (APSP)
An organization that issues reference standards for the pool and spa industry
(apsp.org).
ASTM
Acronym for the American Society for Testing and Materials (astm.org), a volun-
tary standards development organization.
asynchronous
An event that occurs at an arbitrary time without synchronization to a referenced
clock.
atmosphere
1. The air that surrounds the Earth.
2. The mass of gases that surrounds, or may surround, a heavenly body.
atmospheric air
The air of the surrounding atmosphere at its existing pressure.
Plumbineering Dictionary 27
autogenous welding
Uniting pipes of the same type metal by heat fusion, without the addition of a
filler metal.
autoignition
The spontaneous initiation of combustion of some or all of a fuel-air mixture in
the combustion chamber of an internal combustion engine. Also called spontane-
ous combustion.
automatic boiler control
A device that automatically controls the temperature within a boiler.
automatic center punch
A spring-loaded hand tool used to make a dimple in a material.
automatic control valve
A valve designed to regulate the flow of steam, water, gas, or other fluid by means
of a variable orifice in response to signals from a sensor or controller.
automatic dry standpipe system
A standpipe system filled with pressurized air but no permanent water supply,
designed to admit water to the system automatically by the opening of a hose
valve.
automatic fixture sensor
A control that automatically operates a fixture when it senses motion.
automatic flow controller
A device that limits the maximum flow through a line via a pressure-compen-
sating restriction, maintaining a substantially constant flow of water over its de-
signed pressure range.
automatic flush valve
A device that allows the flow of a fluid under pressure to flush a water closet or
urinal.
automatic gas shutoff
A device that turns off the gas to the main burner of an appliance once a predeter-
mined temperature has been reached.
automatic siphon
A tube or conduit in the form of an inverted U through which liquid flows over
the wall of a tank or reservoir to a lower elevation by atmospheric pressure, used
to prevent flooding.
automatic softener
A fully automatic water softener that regenerates at regular intervals, without at-
tention, to provide a continuous supply of soft, conditioned water.
Plumbineering Dictionary 29
dedicated to advancing the science, technology, and application of welding and
related joining disciplines.
AWWA
Acronym for the American Water Works Association (awwa.org), an international
nonprofit and educational society of water professionals dedicated to providing
knowledge, information, and advocacy to improve the quality and supply of po-
table water.
axial brace
An assembly or bracket device used to resist twisting or to restrain a piping run in
the direction of its axis.
axial pump
A pump in which the direction of discharge from the impeller is in line with the
shaft.
Plumbineering Dictionary 31
backflow preventer, water supply
A device or means to prevent reversal of flow in a potable water supply.
backflow prevention assembly
An approved collection of components used to prevent reversal of flow in a po-
table water system.
backflow prevention assembly tester
A person who is certified to perform competent inspections and tests on backflow
prevention assemblies.
backflow prevention device
A mechanical backflow preventer without shutoff valves.
backflow prevention method
A mechanism for preventing reversal of flow.
backflush
Reversing the flow through a column using valves to purge heavy components.
backhoe
An excavating machine comprising a bucket rigidly attached to a hinged stick on
a boom.
backing ring
A metal strip used to prevent melted metal from the welding process from enter-
ing a pipe while making a butt-welded joint.
back-outlet ell
A pipe fitting in which the outlet is in the same place as the run, on the outside of
the large radii curve. Also referred to as heel outlet elbow.
back outlet water closet
A toilet in which the trap from the bowl connects to the wall.
back pressure
Negative pressure created by any means in a potable water distribution system
that causes a potential reversal of flow.
back-pressure backflow
The reversal of normal flow in a piped system due to an increase in the down-
stream pressure above that of the supply pressure.
back siphonage
The flowing back of potentially contaminated or polluted water into potable wa-
ter supply piping due to a negative pressure.
back-siphonage backflow
A reversal of flow that occurs when the pressure in water piping falls below the
local atmospheric pressure.
32 American Society of Plumbing Engineers
back spud water closet
A toilet bowl with a spud connection that receives the connection from a flush-
ometer valve. Also called flushometer or top spud, depending on the location of
the connection for the flushometer valve.
backup
A general sanitary condition where wastewater flows back into a fixture or com-
partment.
back vent
An individual vent for a plumbing fixture located on the downstream (sewer) side
of a trap, used to protect the trap against siphonage.
back venting
A venting arrangement used to prevent seal loss by siphoning and the escape of
sewer gas.
backwashing
The process of cleaning water treatment filters in which filtered water is passed
upward through the filter at a relatively high flow rate to remove any dirt and
oxidized iron collected on top of the resin bed.
backwater valve
A check valve assembly on sanitary drainage piping that allows effluent to flow in
only one direction.
bacteria
Tiny organisms occurring naturally in waters.
bacteria, aerobic
A tiny organism that occurs only in the presence of oxygen.
bacteria, anaerobic
A tiny organism that can live in the absence of free oxygen.
bacteria, coliform
A tiny organism found in the intestines of animals and humans that can cause
water pollution through fecal matter.
bacteria, facultative anaerobic
A tiny organism that can live or thrive under more than one set of conditions,
with or without oxygen.
bacteria, parasitic
A tiny organism that lives in or on another organism for existence or support,
without making a useful or adequate return.
bacteria, pathogenic
A tiny organism that causes illnesses, such as typhoid, dysentery, and cholera.
Plumbineering Dictionary 33
bacteria, saprophytic
A tiny organism that can obtaining food by absorbing dissolved organic decay.
bacteriological examination
A test for new wells and private water supplies by an official representative for the
state board of health or drinking water regulatory agency to determine the pres-
ence of bacteria in the water.
bacterium
Any of a class of microscopic plants having round, rod-like, spiral, or filamentous
single-celled or non-celled bodies, living in soil, water, organic matter, or the bod-
ies of plants and animals.
baffle
An object used to retard or direct the flow of air, air-gas mixtures, flue gases, or
liquids.
baffle plate
A tray or partition placed in process equipment or tanks to direct or change the
direction of flow.
bag trap
An S-shaped trap in which the vertical inlet and outlet pipes are in alignment,
used to prevent the entry of sewer air.
bain-marie
1. A double boiler.
2. A steam table.
3. A secondary water reservoir into which other basins are inserted to hold or
maintain temperature.
balanced backflow valve
A type of valve fitted with a counterbalanced gate, used to prevent reversal of
flow.
balance point
The outdoor temperature at which a building’s heat loss to the environment is
equal to internal heat gains from people, lights, and equipment.
balancing fitting
1. A valve or cock with a movable partition that increases or decreases the amount
of flow by means of adjustment.
2. A fitting with a built-in baffle.
balancing valve
A valve that controls water flow and balances heat distribution to different loca-
tions.
Plumbineering Dictionary 35
band clamp
A two-piece metal clamp used to hold the weight of a riser pipe.
band hanger
A device used as a support for pipe to provide for vertical adjustment or to con-
nect pipe to a hanger assembly.
barber’s boiler
A water heater used in barber shops.
bariatric water closet
A toilet made to accommodate overweight and obese people that can support 500
to 1,000 pounds.
Barlow’s formula
An equation used to show the relationship of internal pressure to allowable stress,
nominal thickness, and diameter, used to estimate the burst pressure of pipes or
tubes.
barometric loop
A fabricated piping arrangement rising at least 35 feet at its topmost point above
the highest fixture it supplies, used in water supply systems to protect against back
siphonage.
barometric pressure
1. The absolute atmospheric pressure existing at the surface of the Earth.
2. The weight of a unit column of air above the point of measurement.
barrier free
A condition where no obstruction exists to prevent access by physically challenged
individuals.
bar strainer
A filtering device consisting of a single rod or several bars or wires that prevents
objects from entering a sewer or drain.
base
1. The lowest point of a stack of vertical pipe.
2. A liquid with a pH of 7.0 or higher.
baseboard
A protecting or finishing molding that covers the joint of a wall and the adjoin-
ing floor.
baseboard radiator
A device in a heating system through which warm air flows, installed at the lowest
part of a wall.
Plumbineering Dictionary 37
basin stopper
A cork-like unit inserted into the top of the fixture spud to hold liquid in a ba-
sin.
basin wrench
A long-shanked tool with ratchet-like jaws used to reach into tight spots.
basket strainer
A perforated drain receptacle used to prevent large food particles from entering a
drainage system.
batch-feed food waste grinder
A food waste grinder that requires a lid that must be locked before operation,
making it impossible to run the grinder when the user is trying to clear a jam by
hand and preventing cutlery from falling into the grinder.
bath connection
A cast-brass, 90-degree fitting or flexible tubing used to connect a bath faucet to
the water supply.
bath faucet
A spout with temperature-adjusting handles especially designed for installation
in a bathtub.
bathroom group
Several plumbing fixtures located together on the same level, generally a water
closet, lavatory, and shower or bathtub.
bathroom sink
A lavatory fixture designed to receive and/or hold water from a faucet in a bath-
room.
bath trap
A P-trap used in the waste line from a bathtub.
bath seat
A bench in a bathtub on which a user can sit while washing.
bathtub
A fixed or freestanding vessel designed for one person to sit or lay in while wash-
ing.
bathtub, hydrotherapy
A bath used for the treatment of disease or disability by the external application
of water to a specific part of the body or the whole body.
bathtub, sitz
A bath in which only the hips and buttocks are immersed in water or a saline solu-
tion for the therapeutic effect of the moist heat in the perineal and anal regions.
Plumbineering Dictionary 39
beehive strainer
A perforated or slotted, cage-type, spiral-shaped strainer attached to the drain of
a urinal that allows liquids to flow but retains solids.
bell
The enlarged end of a pipe into which the end of another pipe inserts. Commonly
called hub.
bell-and-spigot joint
A pipe connection in which the plain end of one pipe is inserted into the enlarged
diameter end of one pipe. Commonly called a hub-and-spigot joint.
bell metal
A type of bronze consisting of 60–85 percent copper alloyed with tin, often with
some zinc and lead, used for casting bells.
below grade
Any portion of a building or system that is below ground level.
belt
A continuous band of tough flexible material used to transmit motion and power
from one pulley to another or to convey materials.
benchmark
1. A mark on a fixed and enduring object indicating a particular elevation, used
as a reference point in topographical surveys and tidal observations.
2. A point of reference from which measurements of any sort may be made.
bending iron
A round, tapered, arched tool used to form lead pipes, fittings, or sheet lead.
bending pin
A pin in a curved line used for straightening or expanding flexible pipe or for
bending lead pipe.
bending spring
A steel tool used to bend lead pipe.
bent
An assembly or frame consisting of two vertical members joined by one or more
horizontal members, used to support a piping system attached to a structural
element.
bent coupling
A boiler coupling at a 90-degree angle. Sometimes called corporation ferrule cou-
pling.
Plumbineering Dictionary 41
bidding documents
Construction documents issued to bidders before the owner/contractor agree-
ment has been signed.
bidding set
A group of plans, specifications, and other documents forming the basis for con-
tractor bids.
bidding requirements
An explanation of the procedures bidders must follow when preparing and sub-
mitting a bid.
bidet
A fixture designed for cleaning the perineal area.
big inch
A term used to describe pipe and pipe lines that are 24 inches in diameter and
larger.
BIM
Abbreviation for building information modeling, the process of generating and
managing building data through all stages of a building’s life-cycle using three-
dimensional, real-time, dynamic software.
biochemical
Dealing with the chemical compounds and processes occurring in living organ-
isms.
biochemical action
Chemical changes resulting from the metabolism of living organisms.
biochemical oxygen demand (BOD)
A measurement of the amount of oxygen required for the biochemical degrada-
tion of organic material in water. Also called biological oxygen demand.
biocompatibility
Using materials that do not alter the bioactivity of the substances used in a sys-
tem.
biodegradable
Subject to breakdown by biochemical action.
biodegradable municipal waste
Solid waste from residences and businesses comprising organic materials that can
be recycled.
biodiesel
A renewable fuel made from recycled vegetable oil or animal fats.
Plumbineering Dictionary 43
Biosafety Level 1 (BSL-1)
A research facility in which microorganisms not known to cause disease in healthy
adults are studied.
Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2)
A research facility in which microorganisms that may pose some health risk are
studied and safety cabinets are often present.
Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3)
A research facility in which organisms posing a significant risk or representing a
potentially serious threat to health and safety are studied, biosafety cabinets are
required, and all penetrations to the exterior of the facility are sealed to prevent
leakage.
Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4)
A research facility in which organisms having life-threatening potential and or the
potential to initiate a serious epidemic disease if released to the outside environ-
ment are studied and a very high level of containment is required.
biosolid
A recyclable, primarily organic material produced by wastewater treatment pro-
cesses.
bioswale
A landscape element designed to collect and treat runoff from paved surfaces us-
ing plants and compost.
biowaste
1. Organic waste capable of being decomposed.
2. Solid waste that is generated during medical procedures.
bismuth
A brittle, grayish-white metal with a pink or red tint used with lead, tin, or iron
to make alloys for fusible bulbs and safety plugs for automatic sprinkler systems
and boiler plugs.
bit
1. Part of an instrument for boring.
2. A drill worked by a brace.
bitumen
A flammable mixture of hydrocarbons and other substances, occurring naturally
or obtained by distillation from coal or petroleum, used as a component of asphalt
and tar for surfacing roads and waterproofing.
bituminized fiber pipe
A lightweight drainage pipe fabricated of cellulose fiber combined with coal tar.
Plumbineering Dictionary 45
block and tackle
A machine made of rope and pulleys, used to aid in moving, hoisting, and haul-
ing weights.
block tin
1. Commercial tin casting blocks containing small quantities of various impuri-
ties (copper, lead, iron, or arsenic).
2. Solid tin as distinguished from tin plate.
blowdown
1. Partial venting or draining, under pressure, of the water side of a water heater
to reduce or remove unwanted contaminants.
2. The pressure drop after releasing a pressure-relief valve.
blow-out water closet
A toilet that empties with the aid of a large volume of water under pressure di-
rected to the outlet of the bowl, causing the contents of the bowl to be forced to
the drainage system.
blowoff
1. A blast of fluid or steam.
2. A controlled outlet from a pipeline used to discharge water, steam, vapor,
sludge, or waste.
blowoff drain
A valve in hot water heater piping that facilitates the removal of any accumulated
oil, grease, or dirt. Also called blowoff valve.
blowoff valve
A valve in hot water heater piping that facilitates the removal of any accumulated
oil, grease, or dirt. Also called blowoff drain.
blow-out urinal
A urinal flushed by inducing large amounts of water in the trap seal.
blow-out water closet
A toilet flushed by a large amount of water that is emitted from a jet in the trap
seal.
blue baby
A condition that inhibits the transfer of oxygen through the lung tissue to the
bloodstream, resulting in oxygen starvation, caused by high nitrate levels, gener-
ally 10 parts per million or more.
blue gas
A gas consisting chiefly of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, formed by the action
of steam upon hot coke, used mainly as a source of hydrogen and in the synthesis
of other chemical compounds. Also known as blue water gas.
46 American Society of Plumbing Engineers
blue water gas
A gas consisting chiefly of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, formed by the action
of steam upon hot coke, used mainly as a source of hydrogen and in the synthesis
of other chemical compounds. Also known as blue gas.
blunt cold chisel
A cull tool made of steel, used for chipping or cutting cold metal.
bobbin
A wooden tool used to draft lead waste pipe or to bend lead pipe without a bend-
ing spring.
BOCA
Acronym for Building Officials and Code Administrators International, an asso-
ciation of professionals employed in the establishment and enforcement of build-
ing codes and a founding member of the International Code Council.
BOD
Abbreviation for biochemical oxygen demand, a measurement of the amount of
oxygen required for the biochemical degradation of organic material in water.
Also called biological oxygen demand.
body
The part of a valve that attaches to the pipeline or equipment and encloses the
working parts of the valve.
boiled linseed oil
Linseed oil whose drying properties have been improved by heating.
boiler
1. A vessel used for heating water.
2. The part of a steam generator in which water is converted into steam.
boiler accessory
An attachment or mechanical device that aids in the operation of a boiler.
boiler band
A metal strap or rod that supports a boiler hanging from some other support. Also
called boiler hanger.
boiler basin
A vessel designed to receive the discharge from a boiler blowoff outlet and to cool
the discharge to a temperature of 130° or less, which permits its safe discharge to
the drainage system. Also called boiler blowoff tank.
boiler blowoff
An outlet on a boiler that permits the emptying or discharge of sediment.
Plumbineering Dictionary 47
boiler blowoff tank
A vessel designed to receive the discharge from a boiler blowoff outlet and to cool
the discharge to a temperature of 130° or less, which permits its safe discharge to
the drainage system. Also called boiler blowoff basin.
boiler bushing
A fitting containing an outer thread and two pipe connections inside and outside
the boiler blowoff tank.
boiler cleaning compound
A mixture of chemicals used to remove deposits in boilers.
boiler compound
A chemical added to the feed water of boilers to prevent corrosion, foaming, or
the formation of scale.
boiler control, automatic
A device that automatically controls the temperature within a boiler.
boiler coupling
A specially designed, straight-through coupling with no union connection, used
to connect piping in a boiler system.
boiler cover
The insulation of a boiler. Also called boiler jacket.
boiler drain
A valve connected at or near the bottom of a boiler to drain and/or flush the
boiler.
boiler elbow
A specially designed 90-degree fitting with a union connection used to connect
piping to a range boiler.
boiler feeder valve
An automatically controlled valve that maintains a desired amount of water in a
boiler.
boiler fitting
A specially designed fitting, either straight through or with a 90-degree turn, hav-
ing a union connection, used to connect piping to a range boiler.
boiler gauge
A temperature- or pressure-registering device installed in a boiler.
boiler gauge column
A glass tube that indicates the water level in a boiler.
Plumbineering Dictionary 49
2. A rod or heavy pin designed to fasten two or more objects together or to hold
one or more objects in place.
bolt cutter
A large pincer used to cut bolts and reinforce rods.
bolted bonnet
A practical and commonly used joint for large valves or for high-pressure applica-
tions, with multiple small-diameter bolts that permit equalized sealing pressure
without the excessive torque needed to make large threaded joints.
bolt for faucet
A threaded rod with a head on one end that holds a faucet handle or washer in
place.
bolting
The use of bolts, studs, and nuts as fasteners.
bolt threader
The diestock used to cut threads on common sizes of bolts or rods.
bomb
A propane tank with a bowl mounted above the tank, used in the melting of lead
for caulking joints.
bonnet
The part of a valve that connects the valve actuator to the valve body and also may
contain the stem packing.
booster pump
A submergible pump used to increase water pressure where low or inadequate
water pressure exists.
booster pump control valve
A pilot-operated valve designed to eliminate pipeline surges caused by the starting
and stopping of a booster pump.
booster water heater
A secondary water-heating system used to heat water to a higher temperature than
that of the primary heater.
borax
Sodium borate, a white crystalline mineral used as a flux, cleansing agent, preser-
vative, fire retardant, and water softener.
bore
1. The inner diameter of a cylindrical object.
2. To make a hole in something by drilling or excavating.
Plumbineering Dictionary 51
brace assembly
A preformed assembly consisting of various components that, depending on its
location, is used to hold and/or restrain a piping system from horizontal, vertical,
and lateral forces.
brace, hanger, or support drawing
A mechanical drawing detailing the elements and components of an assembly or
frame structure, incorporating a bill of material, load and movement data, and
both general and specific identification.
bracing
Metal channels, cables, or hanger angles that prevent pipes from breaking away
from a structure.
bracket
A preformed support or fastener, usually constructed in a cantilevered manner,
with or without additional diagonal structural members for load stability, de-
signed to withstand a gravity load and horizontal and vertical forces.
brackish
Water containing bacteria between 1 and 15,000 parts per million of dissolved
solids, having a salty taste.
braided tubing
A flexible pressure tubing of synthetic material encased in braided threads of
stainless steel, often used in water supply lines.
brake horsepower
The total power input required, including gas horsepower plus all friction losses.
branch
Any part of a piping system other than a main, riser, or stack.
branch ell
An elbow in which the back inlet is in line with one of the outlets of the run. Also
called heel outlet elbow.
branch interval
A length of soil or waste stack generally corresponding to a story height, but never
less than 8 feet (2.4 meters), within which the horizontal branches from one story
of a building are connected to the soil stack.
branch joint
A wiped tee or wye connection used where one pipe branches from another.
branch length method
A pipe sizing calculation using the uniform pressure loss for the critical circuit
piping to calculate an equivalent length for each branch, based on the equivalent
length pressure drop per 100 feet.
Plumbineering Dictionary 53
brick chisel
A cold chisel used to cut brick masonry.
brine
A solution of sodium chloride (common salt) used for regenerating water soften-
ers or as a cooling medium in creating ice surfaces in hockey arenas.
brine tank
A separate tank in a water softening system used to store the water and salt (so-
dium chloride) that form the brine solution.
Britannia metal
A silver-white alloy composed of tin, antimony, and copper, similar to pewter,
used in making utensils. Also called britannium.
British standard pipe thread
A family of 16 standard screw thread types ranging in size from 1/16 to 6 that has
been adopted internationally for interconnecting and sealing pipe ends by mating
an external (male) with an internal (female) thread.
British thermal unit (Btu)
The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 pound (0.45 kilogram)
of water 1°F (0.565°C).
bronze
An alloy of copper and tin known for its corrosion resistance.
bronze-mounted
A valve trim material (stem, disc, seat rings, etc.) that is made of bronze.
brown grease
A mixture of vegetable oil, animal fat, and other grease found in grease intercep-
tors, typically from restaurants and other food-handling operations, considered
contaminated and unsuitable for reuse in other applications without treatment.
Btu
Abbreviation for British thermal unit, the amount of heat required to raise the
temperature of 1 pound (0.45 kilogram) of water 1°F (0.565°C).
Btuh
Abbreviation for British thermal units per hour.
bubbler
1. A type of drinking fountain in which the water constantly discharges.
2. An irrigation device that applies water directly to the soil surface or throws
water a short distance before it contacts the soil.
Plumbineering Dictionary 55
building drain, storm
A building drain that conveys rainwater, surface water, groundwater, subsurface
water, condensate, cooling water, or other similar discharge to a storm sewer.
building drainage system
An arrangement of piping that carries wastewater, sewage, or other drainage from
a building to the street sewer.
building envelope
Structural building elements that enclose the conditioned spaces and allow energy
to be transferred to and from the exterior.
building information modeling (BIM)
The process of designing and managing building systems and data using three-
dimensional, real-time, dynamic software.
building sewer
The part of a drainage system’s horizontal piping that extends from the end of
the building drain and conveys sewage to a public sewer, private sewer, individual
sewage-disposal system, or other approved point of disposal. Often called house
sewer.
building sewer, combined
A building sewer that conveys both sewage and storm water or other drainage.
Prohibited in many areas.
building sewer, storm
A building sewer that conveys rainwater, surface water, condensate, cooling water,
storm water, or other drainage, but no sewage.
building subdrain
The portion of a building drainage system below the building sewer that cannot
drain by gravity.
building trap
A device, fitting, or assembly of fittings installed in a house drain to prevent the
circulation of air between the house drain and the house sewer. Typically installed
as a running trap. Commonly called house trap.
built environment
Human-constructed structures in which people spend their time, as well as hu-
man settlements (villages, towns, cities).
bulkhead fitting
A connector used to attach flexible pipes with the help of male adapters.
bull head tee
A tee connection in which the branch is larger than the run.
Plumbineering Dictionary 57
butt chisel
A short woodworking chisel suitable for fitting hinges or strike plates.
butt connection
A type of pipe connection using a through-type union in which two tube ends are
directly and squarely in contact. Typically used with fused silica connections or
small-bore metal tubing.
butterfly valve
A bidirectional valve consisting of a single disc that is operated by a handle at-
tached to the disc, which permits fluid flow in a straight-through direction. Most
commonly used in place of a gate valve in cases where absolute, bubble-free shut-
off is required.
butt joint
A junction created by fusing two pipe ends, or a pipe end and a fitting opening,
usually with heat. Can be made with solvent welding in plastics.
buttress thread
A screw thread in which the driving face is perpendicular to the axis of the screw
and the back face is at an angle to the axis.
butt weld
A joint made when two pipes ends or edges are brought together and melted at
the junction.
butt welding
The method used to make most standard sizes of steel pipe in which the butted
edges of strips of steel are welded together.
bypass
1. A pipeline with valves intended to divert flow in a different direction or
around a piece of equipment.
2. A connection or a valve system that allows hard water to supply a system while
the water softener is being regenerated or serviced.
bypass relief valve
A check valve that opens to permit a reverse flow of water from the building sys-
tem back into the supply main when the system pressure is greater than the supply
pressure due to the expansion of water as it is heated in the system.
bypass valve
A device used to divert flow past the part of the system through which it normally
passes.
bypass vent
A separate, distinct vent pipe (usually vertical) running parallel to a soil or waste
stack with frequent connections at branch intervals between the two stacks.
Plumbineering Dictionary 59
calcium carbonate
A white precipitate that forms in water lines, water heaters, and boilers in hard
water areas. Also known as scale.
calcium silicate
A white, free-flowing powder derived from limestone and diatomaceous earth
commonly used to make an insulation used as a safe alternative to asbestos for
high-temperature applications, such as industrial grade piping and equipment
insulation.
caliber
The internal diameter of a cylinder.
calibration
The process of comparing the graduation of an instrument to a standard of known
accuracy to eliminate variation.
California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development
(OSHPD)
A state governmental agency that monitors the construction, renovation, and seis-
mic safety of hospitals and skilled nursing facilities and has become a recognized
authority in seismic restraint guidelines and requirements.
caliper
A measuring instrument with two jaws that can be adjusted to determine thick-
ness, caliber, and distance between surfaces.
calorie
The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 kilogram of water 1°C
at a pressure of 1 atmosphere.
caloric value
The amount of heat produced by the complete combustion of a material or fuel,
measured in units of energy per amount of material.
can
A slang expression for a water closet.
Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
A nonprofit, membership-based association that develops standards for business,
industry, government, and consumers in Canada and around the world (csa.ca).
candle
A cylindrical piece of tallow or wax with a wick running through it that can be
burned to give light. Used by plumbers when working lead.
Plumbineering Dictionary 61
capacity, actual
The quantity of air actually compressed and discharged by an air compressor at
a rated speed and under rated conditions, used to measure the capacity of the
compressor. Also called free air delivered.
capacity coefficient
The ratio of a liquid’s radial velocity at a pump impeller to the velocity of the
impeller’s tip.
cape chisel
A tool forged with a thin-shaped blade, tapered on the top and bottom of the cut-
ting end, used for cutting slots, grooves, keyways, and deep corners.
capillary
A thin tube through which fluids flow.
capillary action
The interaction between a fluid and the walls of a tube, which produces a force
that can lift the fluid up into the tube.
capillary bore
The smallest available standard orifice in a given fitting design, usually 0.25 mil-
limeter.
cap screw
A bolt with a head that can be screwed into a hole and secured without use of a
nut. Also called tap bolt and tap screw.
carafe
A bottle typically made of glass with a narrow neck and spherical body, used to
hold water or beverages.
carafe filler
A water supply control device (faucet) designed to fill carafe-shaped vessels.
carbon
A very common nonmetallic chemical element occurring freely and as a constitu-
ent of coal, petroleum, and asphalt. Used chiefly as a pigment, absorbent, fuel,
electrode material, structural material, and reducing agent.
carbon, activated
1. A highly absorbent carbon or charcoal used to absorb gases.
2. A highly absorbent powdered or granular carbon chiefly used for purifying
water by absorption. Also called activated charcoal.
carbonated water
Effervescent water, usually containing salts, charged under pressure with purified
carbon dioxide gas.
Plumbineering Dictionary 63
cast copper fitting
A copper fitting made by pouring the molten metal into a mold.
cast iron
A commercial alloy of iron, carbon, and silicon that is hard, brittle, nonmalleable,
and incapable of being hammer welded and is cast in a mold.
cast iron, charcoal hearth
Cast iron from which silicon and generally phosphorous have been removed in
a charcoal hearth, but still containing so much carbon that it is distinctly cast
iron.
cast iron closet bend
A 90-degree fitting used to connect a water closet to a soil stack or branch soil
pipe.
cast iron fitting
A pipe fitting made of cast iron, including wyes, tees, sanitary tees, double wyes
and bends, and elbows from 22½ to 90 degrees.
cast iron flange
A raised-edge fitting made of cast iron.
cast iron flanged fitting
A pipe fitting made of cast iron with a disc at the port, used as a support.
cast iron flux
A wetting agent used in brazing, soldering, or welding cast iron by gas, electric,
or combination methods.
cast iron pipe
Any pipe made of cast iron.
cast iron soil pipe
A type of cast iron pipe primarily used for sanitary drain, waste, vent, and storm
systems, classified into two major types—hub and spigot and hubless (no-hub).
cast iron soil pipe fitting
A pipe fitting made of cast iron for use with cast iron soil pipe.
Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute (CISPI)
An organization that advances interest in the manufacture, use, and distribution
of cast iron soil pipe and fittings in the plumbing industry (cispi.org).
cast iron soldering
A process that decarbonizes the surface of the cast iron to be soldered, and the
molten hard solder is simultaneously brought into contact with the red hot metal-
lic surfaces.
Plumbineering Dictionary 65
caustic
A corrosive substance capable of burning or eating away by chemical reaction.
caustic embrittlement
The weakening of a metal resulting from contact with hydroxide ions.
cavitation
1. The formation and sudden collapse of vapor bubbles in a liquid, caused when
the pressure of the liquid falls below its vapor pressure.
2. A vacuum created when the discharge capacity of a pump exceeds the replace-
ment in the suction line, causing bubbling and vibrations that can damage the
pump over time.
cavitation corrosion
A type of metal erosion caused by the collapse of cavitation bubbles on the surface
of a liquid and characterized by pitting.
C clamp
A preformed device in a C shape that attaches to a flange or other part of a struc-
tural member and acts as an anchor for a hanger, support, or other device such
as a threaded rod.
CDA
Acronym for the Copper Development Association (copper.org), the market
development, engineering, and information services arm of the copper indus-
try, chartered to enhance and expand markets for copper and its alloys in North
America.
CDC
Acronym for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov), an agency
of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services whose mission is to pre-
vent and control disease and promote environmental health and health education
in the United States.
ceiling
The interior upper surface of a room.
ceiling flange
A projection or escutcheon used to cover an opening in a ceiling caused by a pipe
penetration.
ceiling iron
A tool used to caulk joints located very close to a ceiling.
cell
A circuit consisting of an anode and a cathode in electrical contact in a solid or
liquid electrolyte.
Plumbineering Dictionary 67
CERCLA
Acronym for the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (Superfund), a U.S. federal act that limits the uncontrolled release
or threat of release of hazardous substances into the environment and provides for
methods to mitigate actual releases.
certificate of occupancy
A legal document issued to a building owner certifying that the structure meets all
appropriate codes so the premises can be occupied.
certified backflow assembly tester
An individual who has shown competence to test and maintain backflow assem-
blies to the satisfaction of the administrative authority having jurisdiction.
Certified in Plumbing Design (CPD)
An international certification program for engineers and designers of plumbing
systems administered by the American Society of Plumbing Engineers.
certified plumber
A master plumber.
ceruse
White lead used as a pigment.
cesspool
An underground cistern that receives the discharge of a drainage system and re-
tains the organic matter and solids, but permits the liquids to seep through the
bottom and sides.
cesspool strainer
A ladle-like tool with perforations used to clean a cesspool.
cfm
Abbreviation for cubic feet per minute, a volumetric unit of flow rate usually used
in relation to airflow.
CFR
Acronym for the Code of Federal Regulations, a set of books published by the
U.S. government containing the regulations of federal agencies currently in ef-
fect.
CGA
Acronym for the Compressed Gas Association (cganet.com), an organization ded-
icated to promoting the safe manufacture, transportation, storage, transfilling,
and disposal of industrial and medical gases and their containers.
CGMP
Abbreviation for current good manufacturing practice, a set of guidelines gov-
Plumbineering Dictionary 69
charcoal
A dark-colored form of carbon made from vegetable or animal substances, used
for fuel and in various mechanical, artistic, and chemical processes.
charcoal hearth cast iron
Cast iron from which silicon and phosphorous have been removed in a charcoal
hearth, but still containing so much carbon that it is distinctly cast iron.
chase
A recess in a wall or a space in which pipes can be run.
chaser
A threading tool, with either many teeth or a single cutting edge, shaped for cut-
ting or finishing external or internal screw threads to a specified pitch.
chasing threads
The re-cutting of threads after galvanizing to remove excess zinc gained during
the galvanizing process.
chatter
A sustained vibration magnified by the supply piping.
check damper
A valve or moveable plate in the flue or another part of a stove, furnace, or fire-
place that regulates the draft or the flow of air or other gas.
closing member
The moveable part of a valve that blocks flow.
chamfer
A beveled pipe end, usually done prior to threading.
check valve
An automatic, self-closing valve that permits flow in only one direction and auto-
matically closes by gravity when liquid ceases to flow in that direction.
check valve, straight way
An automatic, self-closing valve with the inlet and outlet in a straight line on
either a vertical or horizontal plane and permits flow in only one direction.
chemical disinfectant shower
A fixture that decontaminates laboratory safety suits after use by spraying a chemi-
cal disinfectant over the suit, allowing disinfection, and then rinsing with water.
chemical oxygen demand
A measurement of the amount of oxygen required to oxidize chemicals in water.
chemical precipitation
1. Precipitation induced by the addition of chemicals.
Plumbineering Dictionary 71
chlorinate
To apply chlorine to water or sewage for sterilization, oxidation of organic matter,
or retardation of purification.
chlorinated lime
A bleaching powder made by passing chlorine gas over slacked or hydrated lime,
used as a bleaching agent, disinfectant, and deodorant.
chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC)
A thermoplastic produced by the chlorination of polyvinyl chloride resin, used for
hot and cold water pipe and industrial liquid handling.
chlorination
The process of adding chlorine to water to destroy organic (living) impurities.
chlorine
A nonmetallic element used as a bleach, oxidizing agent, and disinfectant in water
purification.
chlorofluorocarbon
An inert, nontoxic, and easily liquefied chemical used in refrigeration, air-condi-
tioning, packaging, and insulation, but can have a damaging effect on the Earth’s
ozone.
chloromine
A compound containing chlorine and nitrogen used as an antiseptic or disinfec-
tant.
churn
The maximum static head of a pump—typically the head when all flow is
blocked.
circuit
A directed flow route taken by a media from one point to another.
circuit vent
A branch vent that serves two or more traps and extends from before the last
fixture to connect with the vent stack.
circular saw
A cutting tool consisting of a rotating disk or plate with teeth around the edge.
circulating line
A run of pipe used to cause fluid to flow in a closed circuit.
circulator
A pump that forces the circulation of liquid in a system.
circumference
The length of the perimeter of a circle.
72 American Society of Plumbing Engineers
CISPI
Acronym for the Cast Iron Soil Pipe Institute (cispi.org), an organization that
advances interest in the manufacture, use, and distribution of cast iron soil pipe
and fittings in the plumbing industry.
cistern
A covered tank used for storing water, often placed underground.
city water
A potable water supply provided by a public utility.
clamp
A mechanical device used to connect, as a hanger or support, or used to hold part
of a piping system to a structural beam element without welding.
clamp coupling
A pipe fitting consisting of a tube of pliable material and a strap clamp to seal the
pipe or fitting ends to be coupled.
clapper
The disc of a swing-type check valve.
clarification
A process that reduces or removes turbidity, silt, and sediment present in a raw
water supply.
clarifier
A tank or basin in which wastewater is held for a period of time, during which the
heavier solids settle to the bottom and the lighter material floats to the surface.
Class I commodity
A noncombustible product that meets one of the following criteria: is placed di-
rectly on wooden pallets; is placed in single-layer corrugated cartons, with or
without single-thickness cardboard dividers, and with or without pallets; or is
shrink-wrapped or paper-wrapped as a unit load with or without pallets.
Class II commodity
A noncombustible product that is in slatted wooden crates, solid wood boxes,
multiple-layered corrugated cartons, or equivalent combustible packaging mate-
rial, with or without pallets.
Class III commodity
A product fashioned from wood, paper, natural fibers, or Group C plastics, with
or without cartons, boxes, or crates, and with or without pallets. May contain a
limited amount (5 percent or less by weight or volume) of Group A or Group B
plastics.
Plumbineering Dictionary 73
Class IV commodity
A product, with or without pallets, that meets one of the following criteria: is con-
structed partially or totally of Group B plastics; consists of free-flowing Group A
plastic materials; or contains within itself or its packaging an appreciable amount
(5 percent to 15 percent by weight or 5 percent to 25 percent by volume) of
Group A plastics.
Class A fire
A fire involving ordinary combustible materials such as wood, cloth, paper, rub-
ber, and many plastics (typical for wet-based sprinkler systems).
Class B fire
A fire involving flammable liquids, combustible liquids, petroleum greases, tars,
oils, oil-based paints, solvents, lacquers, alcohols, and flammable gases.
Class C fire
A fire involving energized electrical equipment.
Class D fire
A fire involving combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium,
sodium, lithium, and potassium.
Class K fire
A fire involving cooking oils and fats.
clay puddle
An earthy mixture of clay, sand, and gravel worked while wet into a compact mass
that becomes impervious to water when dry.
clean agent
An inert gas or chemical agent used as a fire extinguisher that does not leave a
residue upon evaporation.
clean agent system
A fire suppression system using an inert gas or chemical agent to reduce the com-
bustion agent, heat, or oxygen or inhibit the chain reaction of these elements.
cleanout
An opening in a pipe that allows access for cleaning or examining the interior of
the pipe.
clean room
A particle-controlled area in which filtered air is supplied to maintain a specified
level of cleanliness.
Clean Water Act
A U.S. federal law that established a mechanism for setting uniform national
standards for wastewater discharge to surface waters and sewers.
Plumbineering Dictionary 75
closet bowl
The receptacle part of a toilet on which the user sits.
closet collar
A flanged fitting that fastens a water closet to a drainage system.
closet ell
The connecting pipe between a flushing tank or valve and a toilet bowl.
closet flange
A fitting connected to the waste pipe and secured to the floor to receive the closet
gasket and closet bolts used to secure a water closet to the drainage system.
closet gasket
A doughnut-shaped sealing device used to form a gas- and liquid-tight connection
between the outlet of a water closet bowl and the plumbing drainage system.
closet horn
The projection of the discharge spud or hollow base of a water closet.
closet offset
A fitting used to attach a water closet when the inlet and outlet are parallel but
not in straight alignment.
closet plunger
A bell-shaped rubber suction cup on a handle that is pumped over the toilet trap
to dislodge stoppage. Also called plumber’s friend.
closet reverse action bowl
A type of toilet bowl in which the waterway leads toward the front of the fixture.
closet screw
A wood-type screw usually with a detachable head, used for fastening a toilet to
the floor.
closet seat
A rim device placed on the edge of a toilet bowl that supports the user.
closet seat hinge
A hinge on a closet seat that allows the seat to swing above the toilet bowl.
closet siphon jet bowl
A type of toilet bowl in which a jetway allows water to influence flushing by
siphon action.
closet spud
An internal expanding device used to make connections to the flush water part
of a toilet bowl.
Plumbineering Dictionary 77
coefficient of performance
The ratio of the rate of heat removal to the rate of energy input, in consistent units,
generally regarding a refrigeration system under designated operating conditions.
coefficient of permeability
A factor used to determine quantities of subsurface water, equal to gallons (liters)
of water per day through 1 square foot (0.09 square meter) of soil, with an increas-
ing head of 1 foot (0.3 meter) per every linear foot (0.3 meter).
coefficient of runoff
The percentage of precipitation that is not absorbed by the soil.
coefficient of transmissibility
A factor used to determine quantities of subsurface water, equal to the gallons
(liters) of water per day through an entire area, with the actual head increasing
every linear foot (0.3 meter).
cogeneration
The joint production and use of electricity and heat.
coherent unit system
A system in which relations between units contain as a numerical factor only the
number 1 (or unity).
cohesion
The force of attraction between molecules of any substance that tends to hold
them together.
coke plate
A sheet of coke iron.
coking
A reduction of hydrocarbons in a pump, resulting in the formation of carbon
residue that interferes with the movement of a mechanical seal. Often called car-
bonizing.
cold chisel
A tool with a flat blade made of steel of a strength, shape, and temper suitable for
chipping or cutting cold metal.
cold drawn
Pipe or tubing that is pulled through a die to reduce its diameter and wall and
increase its strength.
cold elevation
The design elevation after cold pull elevation.
Plumbineering Dictionary 79
collar
1. A tapered sleeve around other parts in an assembly.
2. A flange used on a pipe where it passes through an opening in a wall or floor
to cover the opening.
collector
A device in a solar energy system installed in a convenient location to absorb the
sun’s energy.
collector, concentrating
A solar energy collector that uses reflectors, lenses, or other optical devices to con-
centrate the radiant solar energy passing through the aperture onto an absorber of
which the surface area is smaller than the aperture area.
collector efficiency
The ratio of the energy collected (or absorbed) to the total solar energy incident
on a solar energy collector, expressed in percent.
collector, evacuated tube
A solar energy collector consisting of rows of parallel transparent glass tubes, each
containing an absorber and covered with a selective coating. Also called vacuum
tube collector.
collector, flat-plate
A non-concentrating solar energy collector in which the absorbing surface is es-
sentially planar and usually approximately the same area as the aperture.
collector subsystem
The portion of a solar water-heating system used to absorb incident solar radia-
tion, convert it to thermal energy, and transfer it to a heat transfer fluid.
collector tilt
The angle above the horizontal plane at which a solar energy collector is mounted,
in degrees.
collector, transpired
A south-facing outside wall covered by a dark sheet-metal solar energy collector.
collector, trickle
A flat-plate solar energy collector over which non-pressurized liquids flow.
collet
A hollow clamping ring or holding device.
colloid
A finely divided solid that will not settle, but may be removed by coagulation or
biochemical action.
Plumbineering Dictionary 81
combined sewer
A wastewater collection system that carries both storm water and sewage. Also
called a combination sewer.
combined sewer overflow
A discharge of untreated wastewater from a combined sewer system before it
reaches the publicly owned treatment works.
combined sprinkler riser
An automatic sprinkler system and standpipe connection off the same riser.
combined waste and vent system
A specially designed waste piping system, a common waste and vent pipe, ad-
equately sized to provide free movement of air above the flow line of the drain,
serves the horizontal wet venting of one or more sinks, floor sinks, or floor
drains.
combustible
Capable of reacting with oxygen and burning.
combustible liquid
A liquid with a flash point at or above 100°F (37.8°C).
combustion
The act or process of burning.
combustion chamber
The portion of an appliance in which burning occurs.
combustion efficiency
The rated percentage of heat produced compared to the actual heat transferred to
the medium being heated.
combustion gas
A gas resulting from the process of burning, typically produced by gas appli-
ances.
combustion product
The gas, volatilized liquid and solid, particulate matter, and ash generated by com-
bustion.
commercial piping system
A system located in a commercial building structure that generally includes pip-
ing for fire protection, plumbing, heating, and cooling.
commercial standard
A document prepared by a recognized standard-setting organization that pre-
scribes methods and materials for the safe use and consistent performance of spe-
cific technologies, typically developed by consensus of the interested parties.
Plumbineering Dictionary 83
companion flange
An internally threaded rim of a pipe that is drilled so it may be bolted to another
flange.
compass
1. A mathematical tool used to draw circles or arcs.
2. An instrument for determining direction by means of a freely rotating, mag-
netized needle that indicates magnetic north.
compass saw
A cutting tool that has a narrow, tapered blade, used to make both curved and
straight cuts.
component
An individual item or device that is combined with others to create an assembly.
composition joint
A way of joining bell and spigot pipe with packing materials such as rope and
rosin or cement and hemp.
composting
A way to recycle the nutrients and organic matter found in wastewater solids by
using oxygen to release water, heat, and carbon dioxide, which helps dry the or-
ganic material, while the generated heat increases the rate of decomposition and
kills pathogens.
composting toilet
A water closet that treats human waste via microbiological processes, typically
used in parks and remote areas.
compound
A cement with an oil base applied to threaded pipe connections to prevent leak-
age. Also called pipe joint.
compound drain
A drain that receives the discharge from more than one fixture.
compound leverage pipe wrench
A tool that enables the user to double the leverage via a hook jaw, which turns a
pipe or fitting one way, while an offset chain trunnion exerts pressure the opposite
way.
compound meter
A meter that measures low flows but can also measure higher flows, i.e., fire flow.
compound parabolic concentrator
A non-tracking solar energy collector consisting of two sections of a parabola of
second degree symmetrically located about the mid-plane of a collector.
Plumbineering Dictionary 85
compression ratio
The ratio of the absolute discharge to the absolute intake pressure in a compres-
sor.
compression stress
Stress on a pipe wall due to external pressure or internal vacuum.
compression-type stop
A valve using a disc fitted to a seat to control the flow of liquids.
compression valve
A motor-operated valve using a disc fitted to a seat to control the flow of liquids.
compressive strength
The capacity of a material to withstand axially directed pushing forces.
compressive stress
A force that causes an elastic body to shorten in the direction of the force.
compressor
A mechanical device that increases the pressure of air or gas.
concave
1. A hollow within a mass or in a surface.
2. The inner face of a bowl.
concealed fouling surface
The surface of a plumbing fixture that is not readily visible and is not scoured or
cleansed with each fixture operation.
concealed sprinkler
A recessed fire sprinkler with a cover plate.
concentrate
In cross-flow filtration, reverse osmosis, nanofiltration, and ultrafiltration, the
amount of feed stream that does not permeate the membrane and thus concen-
trates the ions, suspended solids, and organics in the waste stream.
concentrating collector
A solar energy collector that uses reflectors, lenses, or other optical devices to con-
centrate the radiant solar energy passing through the aperture onto an absorber of
which the surface area is smaller than the aperture area.
concentrating ratio
The ratio of the aperture area to the absorber of a solar energy collector.
concentration cell
A cell involving an electrolyte and two identical electrodes that produces a voltage
as it attempts to reach equilibrium.
Plumbineering Dictionary 87
2. The liquid that separates from a gas (including flue gas) due to a reduction in
temperature.
condensate collection system
A type of water recycling system that collects condensate from air-conditioning
systems and reuses the water in other systems such as mechanical makeup water
systems or landscape irrigation systems.
condensation
Water vapor that deposits on a surface whose temperature is below the dew-
point.
condensed steam
Saturated liquid at the same temperature as the steam from which it was formed.
condensate water
The wastewater resulting from water that has extracted heat while flowing through
a condenser.
condenser
A heat exchanger that removes heat from a vapor, changing it to its liquid state.
condensing water heater
A type of energy-efficient water heater that recovers the energy lost in flue gases by
using a larger heat exchanger or a second heat exchanger that reduces the flue-gas
temperature to the point where the water vapor condenses, thus releasing energy.
condition of service
An agreement between a water supplier and a consumer that specifies the obliga-
tions and responsibilities of each for water service to be provided.
conductance
The ability of a substance to conduct heat or electricity, measured with a conduc-
tivity meter and described as micro-siemens per centimeter, which is the same as
micro-ohms per centimeter. Also known as conductivity.
conduction
A heat transfer process by which heat flows from a region of high temperature to a
region of lower temperature within a solid, liquid, or gaseous medium by molecu-
lar contact or between different media in direct physical contact.
conductivity
The ability of a substance to conduct heat or electricity, measured with a conduc-
tivity meter and described as micro-siemens per centimeter, which is the same as
micro-ohms per centimeter. Also known as conductance.
conductor
1. Any vertical pipe that conveys rainwater, either inside or outside a building.
2. A material through which electric current can pass.
88 American Society of Plumbing Engineers
conduit
1. A pipe or channel that conveys fluids.
2. A tube or duct that encloses electric wires or cable.
Condy’s fluid
A mixture of calcium and potassium permanganates used for deodorizing cess-
pools and sewage.
cone washer
A cone-shaped faucet or basin washer that permits use with a beveled seat valve
and fits a variety of opening sizes.
confluent vent
A vent that serves more than one fixture or stack vent.
conformance
The degree of compliance with a regulation or code.
connected drain and overflow
A prearranged interconnection of a drain and a safety spillage conduit.
connected load
1. The total number of fixtures, equipment, or devices attached to a system.
2. The sum of the rated input to individual pieces of gas-using equipment con-
nected to a piping system, expressed in cubic feet (cubic meters) per hour.
connections
The joints, pipe, fittings, and valves in a piping system.
connector
A fitting or device used to join pipes, fittings, valves, and fixtures.
conservation
The practice of protecting against loss and waste and managing natural resources,
both renewable and nonrenewable.
constant-speed system
A system using a constant-speed pump (the pressure source) with a pressure-regu-
lating valve downstream (the regulating device), in which the pump never changes
speed because it is powered by a starter.
constant support hanger
A mechanical, spring-coil device that provides constant support for a piping sys-
tem, while permitting some dimensional movement.
constant support hanger indicator
A device attached to the movable arm of a constant support hanger that measures
vertical pipe movement.
Plumbineering Dictionary 89
constant velocity method
A pipe sizing method based on velocity only, plus the pressure drops not to exceed
the total allowable (used for short lengths and/or few connections).
construction documents
All drawings, specifications, and other written papers prepared or assembled for
the purpose of describing the design, location, and physical characteristics neces-
sary for obtaining permits and building any facility.
Construction Specifications Institute (CSI)
An association of commercial-level construction professionals that develops stan-
dards and specification formats (csinet.org).
consumer
A person receiving service from a potable water system purveyor.
consumer’s industrial piping system
A system used by a consumer to transmit or store a fluid, solid, or gaseous sub-
stance other than an approved water supply, including all pipes, conduits, tanks,
receptacles, fixtures, equipment, and appurtenances.
consumer’s potable water system
The portion of a privately owned potable water system between the point of deliv-
ery and the point of use, including all pipes, conduits, tanks, receptacles, fixtures,
equipment, and appurtenances.
consumer’s water system
A water system located on a consumer’s premises, whether supplied by a public
potable water system or an auxiliary water supply.
consumption
A measure of the volume of water used per toilet flushing cycle and all other
fixture usage.
contact corrosion
A type of corrosion that occurs when a metal contacts a nonmetallic material.
containment
1. A means of cross-connection control that requires the installation of a back-
pressure backflow preventer in the water service.
2. A method to isolate biohazardous material.
containment policy
A prescribed method to confine potential contamination caused by a cross-con-
nection within a facility by installing a backflow prevention assembly at the point
of service. Sometimes called premise isolation.
Plumbineering Dictionary 91
control
A manual or automatic device that regulates a machine or process.
controlled-flow roof drainage system
A system utilizing drains that allow runoff to drain off a roof much more slowly
than the rate at which the runoff reaches the drain and collects excess runoff on
the roof, which is drained off at a controlled rate after the storm has abated.
controller
A cabinet containing the motor starter, circuit breaker, disconnect switch, and
other devices for the control of electric motors and internal combustion-engine-
driven pumps.
control stop
A valve used to control the flow of water into a pressurized flushing device.
control valve
A manual or automatic device used to direct (or control) the flow of water in a
certain direction.
convection
1. A process in which heat is transferred from one region to another by the mo-
tion of a fluid.
2. The large-scale movement of heat through a fluid (liquid or gas) due to differ-
ences in density between hot and cold fluids.
convection, forced
A heat transfer process caused by a mechanical device, such as a fan or injector.
convection, free
A heat transfer process caused by a density differential within a fluid, without the
involvement of a mechanical device.
conventional pollutant
A contaminant typically found in municipal sewage that can be treated by sec-
ondary treatment plants.
conventional roof drainage system
A system composed of roof drains designed and sized to handle runoff as fast as
it reaches the drain.
convex
1. Arched up.
2. The outer face of a bowl.
Cooling Technology Institute
An organization dedicated to advocating and promoting the use of environmen-
Plumbineering Dictionary 93
per industry, chartered to enhance and expand markets for copper and its alloys
in North America (copper.org).
copper drainage
A system of drain or waste pipe made of copper.
copper drainage fitting
A fitting for assembling a drain or waste system made of copper.
copper drainage tube
A seamless tube furnished in drawn (hard) temper copper only, used in drain,
waste, and vent applications.
coppered steel hanger
A copper-plated steel device used to support pipes.
copper float
A buoyant device made of copper used to control a float valve.
copper-lined tank
A tank lined with sheet copper.
copper lining
Sheet copper formed into a box-like shape, minus a cover.
copper pipe
Plumbing pipe made from copper for water supply; drain, waste, and vent sys-
tems; boiler feed lines; refrigeration; and similar purposes.
copper-plated nipple
A short piece of pipe that is plated in copper.
copper plating
An electroplating process in which a copper coating is deposited on a substrate.
copper range boiler
A range water heater made of copper.
copper sheet
Copper drawn into sheets of various thicknesses or gauges.
copper-silver ionization
A method of injecting positive ions into the water stream, in which the positive
cations attach to the negative anions of organic pathogens, destroying their cell
structures. Used to eliminate Legionella and other waterborne organisms.
copper stop
1. A valve made to receive copper tube.
2. A sweat joint connection for inlet and outlet ports.
Plumbineering Dictionary 95
corporation ferrule coupling
A boiler coupling at a 90-degree angle. Sometimes called bent coupling.
corporation stop
A stopcock that controls the flow of water or gas from a main to an individual
customer, located where the service lateral is tapped into the main, so it usually is
not readily accessible. Also called corporation cock.
corrode
To destroy a metal or alloy gradually, especially by oxidation or chemical action.
corrosion
The degradation of a material by its environment.
corrosion control
1. In water correction, preventing the discharge of the metallic ions of a conduit
by increasing the pH value of the water, removing the free oxygen from the
water, and controlling the carbonate balance.
2. Sequestering metallic ions to form protective films on metal surfaces by chem-
ical treatment to prevent corrosion.
corrosion fatigue
Reduction of a metal’s durability by a corrosive environment.
corrosion fatigue limit
The maximum repeated stress that can be endured by a metal without failure in
a stated number of stress applications under defined conditions of corrosion and
stressing.
corrosion mitigation
The reduction of metal loss or damage through the use of protective methods and
devices.
corrosion prevention
The halting or elimination of metal damage through the use of corrosion-resisting
materials, protective methods, and protective devices.
corrosion potential
The possibility that a metal will corrode under specific conditions of concentra-
tion, time, temperature, aeration, and velocity.
corrosion-resistant sprinkler
A fire sprinkler with special coatings or platings, used in an atmosphere that
would corrode an uncoated sprinkler.
corrosive
The ability of a chemical compound or material to attack, eat away, or otherwise
damage materials.
Plumbineering Dictionary 97
CPD
Acronym for Certified in Plumbing Design, an international certification program
for engineers and designers of plumbing systems administered by the American
Society of Plumbing Engineers.
CPVC
Abbreviation for chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, a thermoplastic produced by the
chlorination of polyvinyl chloride resin, used for hot and cold water pipe and
industrial liquid handling.
cracking
Separation of a material in a brittle manner along a single or branched path.
cradle-to-cradle
The reuse of materials at the end of their first useful life.
cradle-to-grave
The impact of a product from its source through the end of its useful life to the
disposal of all waste products.
craft union
A labor union whose membership is limited to those following the same trade.
crane
A siphon or bent pipe for drawing liquids out of a large vessel.
crapper
Slang for toilet.
creep
The elongation of a material due to heat or stress.
crevice corrosion
Localized corrosion resulting from the formation of a concentration cell in a
crack, which allows the accumulation of a corroding agent.
critical air gap
The air gap for implementing reverse flow under laboratory conditions with still
water, with the water valve fully open and one-half atmospheric pressure within
the pipe.
critical flow
The flow rate of a fluid equal to the speed of sound in that fluid.
critical level
A reference point on a backflow prevention device or vacuum breaker that deter-
mines the minimum elevation above the flood level rim of the fixture or receptacle
served at which the device may be installed.
Plumbineering Dictionary 99
cross-linked polyethylene (PEX)
A rupture-resistant polyethylene with cross-links formed into tubing, used pre-
dominantly in hydronic radiant heating systems and domestic water piping.
crossed-linked polyethylene, aluminum, crossed-linked polyethylene
(PEX-AL-PEX)
A composite pipe made of an aluminum tube laminated with interior and exterior
layers of cross-linked polyethylene bonded with an adhesive.
crossover
A pipe fitting with a double offset, or shaped like the letter U with the ends turned
out, used to direct the flow of one pipe past another when the pipes are in the
same plane.
crossover fitting
A fitting that allows pipes installed at the same elevation or parallel to cross.
cross valve
A valve fitted on a transverse pipe to open flow between two parallel pipes.
crowbar
A tough iron bar used as a lever for prying and lifting.
crown
The upper part of a trap where the direction of flow is changed from upward to
horizontal.
crown saw
A circular-shaped cutting tool attached to a drill, used to cut out circular shapes.
Also called cylinder saw or hole saw.
crown vent
A vent pipe connected at the topmost point of a trap.
crown-vented trap
An air-admittance valve attached to a drainpipe and protected by a check valve,
used to equalize pressure in a drain line and protect the trap seal.
crown weir
The highest part of the inside portion of the bottom surface at the crown of a
trap.
crow’s foot
A PVC tee with two outlets at right angles off the main.
crucible
A vessel made of refractory material used for melting or calcinating metal at high
temperatures.