Best Pipe for Submersible Pumps: uPVC Column Pipe vs GI vs Steel

Every submersible pump hangs on a pipe that carries water to the surface. In India it is usually called a column pipe; in the United States a drop pipe; elsewhere a riser pipe. The pipe you choose affects water quality, how easily the pump can be installed or pulled, and how long the system lasts.

The three common choices are uPVC column pipe, galvanised iron (GI) pipe and steel pipe. Here is how they compare.

uPVC column pipe

uPVC column pipes are now widely used for borewell pumps because they do not rust. Vinyl uPVC column pipes are made from a compound of 92% PVC polymer, 3% reinforcing agents and 3% titanium using biaxially oriented extrusion. According to Vinyl's product data they are:

• 100% corrosion resistant, supplying potable, contamination-free water.
• About one-sixth the weight of iron or steel pipes, with double the strength.
• 60% more cost-effective than iron or steel pipes.
• Energy efficient: the smooth internal surface uses 23% less energy.
• Rated for installation depths up to 1400 ft, with a life expectancy of over 50 years.
• Joined with Power Lock Technology, which gives a leak-proof joint and prevents slippage from motor vibration and jerk.

GI (galvanised iron) pipe

GI pipe is steel pipe with a zinc coating. It has been used for decades and is strong, but it is heavy, so installation and pump removal usually need more labour or lifting equipment. The zinc coating protects the steel only while it lasts; in many groundwater conditions it wears over time, after which the pipe can corrode, scale and discolour the water. For a deeper look, read our uPVC riser column vs GI pipes comparison.

Steel pipe

Plain steel pipe is strong but will rust unless it is protected. Stainless steel resists corrosion much better, but it is heavy to handle and a significant cost for long pipe strings.

How a column pipe string is put together

Column pipes are supplied in fixed lengths and joined one by one as the pump is lowered into the well. Each joint must carry the weight of the pump and the water column below it, which is why joint design matters as much as the pipe itself.

Checklist: choosing a pipe for your submersible pump

1. Setting depth. Confirm the pipe and joint are rated for the depth at which the pump will hang.
2. Water quality. Corrosive or salty groundwater quickly exposes the weakness of unprotected metal pipes.
3. Pipe size. Match the pipe to the pump's delivery outlet and required flow. Vinyl column pipes come in sizes from 20 mm to 315 mm.
4. Joint type. Look for joints that will not leak or loosen under pump start-up torque and vibration.
5. Handling. Lighter pipe means easier installation and faster pump servicing.
6. Drinking water use. Choose a pipe that will not add rust or contaminants to the water.

Frequently asked questions

Which pipe is best for a submersible pump?

For most borewells, uPVC column pipe is the practical choice: it does not rust, is far lighter than GI or steel, and keeps water clean. Metal pipes remain an option in special cases, but they need protection against corrosion.

Are uPVC column pipes strong enough for deep borewells?

Vinyl uPVC column pipes have high tensile strength, are designed to withstand high pressure and are suitable for installation depths of up to 1400 ft.

Do uPVC column pipes affect drinking water quality?

No. Vinyl uPVC column pipes are 100% corrosion resistant and made with a safe PVC polymer compound, so they deliver clean, potable water.

Need column pipes for a project? See uPVC column pipe specifications or contact Vinyl Pipes for prices.