At first glance, plumbing might seem to be a simple matter. Run some pipes and connect them to the faucets and showers. But a poorly planned plumbing system can turn into a disaster. We will consider some of the following questions: What is the best location for my cistern? What difference might the number of sinks and showers in my house make? What is the diameter of the pipes I should use? Does the length of the pipes make a difference or the number of bends? What pressure is needed in the pipes and how big of a water pump will I need? What materials should the pipes be made from and what is the best and safest method of connecting them together? Your Questions    This link will provide you with some ideas and provide a form for submitting your questions about plumbing systems.

(Courtesy of WhollyWater)

Fields of Science to be Addressed:

Physics:

• Fluid Statics
• Fluid Dynamics

• Introduction to PVC
• Chemistry of PVC

Laboratory:

1. Fluid Statics and Dynamics
2. Modeling Pipe Systems

Projects and Extensions:

• PVC safety
• Waterclosets
• plumbing codes