The two main types of cast iron pipes used in plumbing applications are:
Hubless Cast Iron Pipes: Also known as no-hub or rubber gasket pipes, hubless cast iron pipes are designed for easy installation. They have a bell-shaped end (hub) on one side and a plain end on the other. These pipes are connected using flexible rubber couplings, which create a watertight seal. The advantage of hubless cast iron pipes is that they are relatively simple to assemble and disassemble, making them a popular choice for residential and commercial plumbing systems.
Hub and Spigot Cast Iron Pipes: Hub and spigot cast iron pipes are a traditional type of cast iron pipes widely used in older plumbing systems. They have a bell-shaped end (hub) on one side and a male, tapered end (spigot) on the other. The spigot end of one pipe fits into the hub of the next pipe, and the joints are sealed with lead and oakum or a more modern sealing method. Hub and spigot cast iron pipes are known for their durability and longevity, making them suitable for underground sewer systems.
Both types of cast iron pipes have been widely used in the past for drainage, sewage, and venting purposes. However, modern plumbing systems are transitioning towards more lightweight and corrosion-resistant materials like PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) pipes. Cast iron pipes are still present in some older buildings and infrastructure, but their use in new construction has become less common due to advancements in plumbing technology and materials.