Effect of distribution network pipe material on drinking water quality

The effect of distribution network material on water quality was evaluated by collecting and analyzing water samples from 40 location in a community in Dhahran. Concentrations of dissolved salts, calcium, magnesium, sodium, chloride, and sulfate in the groundwater were higher than the health guidelines. Desalination process brought these parameters within the recommended guidelines. Concentrations of trace metals, except for lead in three samples, were below the permissible limits. Fluoride concentrations in many drinking water samples were lower than the recommended range. Water concentrations of copper increased in the distribution network with copper pipes. The PVC pipes in the network contained about 1% of lead and water passing through these pipes contained relatively higher lead concentrations. Leaching of lead from the PVC appears to be responsible for lead elevation in these water samples. Iron concentrations in the water samples from the galvanized pipes were higher than those collected from non-galvanized pipes. The results of this study show that distribution network material can modify water quality during transportation to the consumers.