“The Century Club honors utilities that invested in cast iron pipes to provide a safe drink to their communities 100 years ago,” said Patrick J. Hogan, president of the association, known as DIPRA. “Today’s modern ductile iron pipe is the natural descendant of cast iron, exhibiting the increased strength and resilience needed to withstand changing weather conditions, soil consistency and even natural disasters. We are proud to welcome the City of Oconomowoc at the Century Club and commend their utility professionals and others responsible for overseeing their water system for their commitment to the health and safety of their community. “

There are 546 water services in United States and 34 water services in Canada who are members of the Century Club. Many of these utilities still use at least some of the cast iron pipes installed underground over 100 years ago. DIPRA also sponsors a 150th anniversary club including 25 public services in the United States and four in Canada are known to have benefited from cast iron pipelines in service for over 150 years.

the City of Oconomowoc uses ductile iron or cast iron in more of its 99 miles of water main, with pipe sizes ranging from 4 to 16 inches.

Ductile iron pipe breaks occur much less frequently than with substitute materials, such as PVC plastic pipes. In explaining their choice to use ductile iron in their water system, Oconomowoc Water Superintendent Scott Osborn, PE, said the ductile leaks are small and “very localized as opposed to the longitudinal failure of the water. PVC pipe causing greater scope for cleaning and restoration “.

DIPRA Regional Director Paul H. Hanson, PE presented a plaque to Oconomowoc City Council in October.

SOURCE Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association (DIPRA)