LESSON 1 : ELEMENTS OF PLUMBING

Learning Outcomes:
After reading this Information Sheet, you must be able to:
1. Understand the Basic Elements of Plumbing.
2. Understand the History of Plumbing Practice.

INFORMATION SHEET 1.01

ELEMENTS OF PLUMBING
 A Plumber is the one who works or engages in the business of installing in buildings
the pipes, fixtures and other apparatus for bringing in the water supply and removing
liquid and waterborne wastes.
 Plumbum means lead, the material the ancient Rome used in plumbing.
 Plumbarius was one who worked in the field of sanitation in ancient Rome.

(Left) Roman aqueducts, (Right) Indus River Valley Civilization

 4000-3000 B.C., indus River Valley – India ruins of a plumbing system were found
 2,500 B.C., Ancient Egypt – sections of copper water pipe were unerthred along with
place apartments in which each bedroom had a bathroom.
 Babylonia (area bet Euphrates Tigris Rivers) – a skillfully planned and regulated
network of canals were discovered large brick drainage sewers with manholes were
installed.

 Babylonia Hammurabi Code, the First Building Code:

o Code of laws regulating business and custom (between 2400 and 2150 B C)
o Regulations governing the construction of buildings

Page 1 of 187
 1500-1000 B.C., Island of Crete
o Evidence of plumbing fixture, water supply system, sanitary drainage system,
and a heating system
o Bathub – 5 feet in length made of hard pottery
o Water Closet – made with hard pottery equipped with seat and flushing device
o Clay drain pipe (Bell Spigot type), fitted to tee wyes
 500 B.C. – A.D. 455, Roman Empire:
o Large underground sewer systems;
o Public and private baths;
o Lead and bronze water piping systems;
o Marble with gold and silver fitting;
o Bathing pools were made of glazed tiles;
o Residential bathtubs were provided with hot and cold water, were made of
solid marble;
o Hot water was conveyed thru pipes made of lead or bronze;
 After 1000 years of rule, the Roman Empire crumbled and ancient Rome was
invaded by Goths and vandals (barbaric tribes of northern Europe) destroying public
works that resulted to vanished sanitation:
o DARK AGES came for 10 centuries;
o Cleanliness and domestic sanitary needs were neglected;
o Plumbing fixtures such as Water Closet were not used until the 12 th Century.
(Water Closets were developed in the 4 th and 5 th centuries in Europe)
 During the 14 th Century Europe was ravaged by Bubonic Plaque killing 25 million
people Bubonic Plague caused by the Gram-negative bacterium Yersini pestis
(formerly known as Pasteurelia pestis It refers specifically to an infection that enters
through the skin and travels through the lymphtics as is often seen in flea borne
infections Bubonic plague kills about half of infected patients in 3-7 days without
treatment;
 18th Century
o European cities had not been equipped with sanitary sewage disposal facilities
o Mortality rate exceeded birth rate
o Opposition was raised when building owners were ordered to install domestic
sewage vault
 19th Century
o Europe started to provide public sewer systems undercity streets
o Slowly, people began to use public sewer facilities for disposal of sewage from
buildings
 1626, New York
o No water supply and sewage facilities;
o Drinking water was carried from wells and was used sparingly water was
purchased by the bucket from water peddlers;
o Outdoor earth privies were used as toilet facilities;

Page 2 of 187
 o Used water were dumped onto the ground;
o Shallow wells become polluted by seepage from earth privies;
 1675
o Common Council was formed due to intolerable health conditions;
o Health officials were appointed to take charge of sewage and refuse disposal;
o Watertight privy vaults began to be installed instead of earth privies.

History of Plumbing Practise in the Philippines

 17th century – The birth of the plumbing profession in the Philippines

 WALLED CITY – known as Intramuros (in Manila) was established by the Spaniards as
a model community;

 The Friar Engineers who built the government buildings, residential and other
structures, incorporated European standards in their plumbing installations;
 During the 18th and 19th centuries the Filipino plumbers were assigned the task of
maintaining, repairing and/or remodelling plumbing systems in all “pueblos” or
towns including churches, convents and government buildings;
 The recognized plumbers
then were called upon by the “ilustrados” or the elite group to act as consultants of
plumber journeymen on matters pertaining to plumbing installations in villas and
mansions;

 PLUMBING took a great leap at the turn of the 20 th century with the arrival of the
American soldiers, engineers, Thomasite teachers, doctors and evangelists. Health
and hygiene became priority when epidemics including cholera, leprosy,
schistosomiasis and other contagious diseases engulfed the Philippines.

 Governor General Harrison issued a letter of instruction on proper waste disposal in

all municipalities.
 By 1902, the PLUMBING TRADE was duly recognized by the government. The City of
Manila was the model community.

 Master Plumber John F. Hass became the first Chief of the Division of Plumbing
Construction and Inspection.
In 1935 Francisco Geronimo, Mariano de Ocampo, lgmidio Suarez, Eusebio Mina Jose
Rivera, Raymundo Reyes, Sr Roberto Feliciano, Gregorio Lazaro, Raymundo Gumapac,
John Jones, Trinitario Ortiz, Valentin Casupanan, Catalino Casupanan, Crispin Ulcisco,
Teodoro Pastor, Cornelio Odvina and Jesus Tangbal Dera 17 members) organized the
National Master Plumbers Association of the Philippines (NAMPAP) and had it
registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
 City Ordinance 2411 otherwise known as the Plumbing Code for the City of Manila
was enacted in consultation with NAMPAP The practice of plumbing was eventually
placed under the Department of Public Services, Manila.

(Left) Manila City Hall Post War, (Right) President Ramon Magsaysay
 Initiated by NAMPAP, the Department of Public Services of the City of Manila was
created by an Act of Congress.
 The National Government, through the Bureau of Public Works, and other cities and
municipalities adopted the Plumbing Code of Manila. NAMPAP spearheaded the
enactment of a law regulating the practice of master plumbing in the Philippines.
 In 1954, the Third Congress of the Republic of the Philippines in its Second Session,
approved after the third reading House Bill No 962.
 In June 18, 1955, President Ramon Magsaysay signed the Republic Act No. 1378 also
known as PLUMBING LAW OF THE Philippines.
 In January 28, 1959, the National Plumbing Code of the Philippines prepared by the
NAMPAP was promulgated and approved by Malacañang.
 NAMPAP also assisted in the passage of the law creating the National Waterworks
and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA).
 1966-1969, the Board of Examiners for Master Plumbers and the NAMPAP prepared
a Curriculum for Plumbing Engineering that was approved by the Department of
Education and was first introduced at the Feati University.

 Republic Act No 6541 otherwise known as the “Building Code of the Philippines"
was passed with the "National Plumbing Code of 1959” as referral code in full text.

 In December of 1996, the use of hubless pipe for C.I. pipes was also approved.

 In 1996, NAMPAP President JAIME M. CABASE spearheaded the updating of the

Revised National Plumbing Code.

 Finally, in October 1999, NAMPAP submitted the Draft Code to the Board of Master
 Plumbers (BOMP) chaired by Engr. FORTUNATO H. AMOSCO.

 After careful review, the Professional Regulation Commission under Chairman

HERMOGENES POBRE adopted the Revised Plumbing Code of 1999.

 President JOSEPH EJERCITO ESTRADA approved last December 21, 1999 pursuant to
Section 4 of Republic Act No. 137 known as the Plumbing Law.
 INFORMATION SHEET 1.02 :
THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF PLUMBING

Learning Outcomes:
After reading this Information Sheet, you must be able to:
1. Understand the Basic Principles of Plumbing as stipulated in the 1999 Revised
Plumbing Code of the Philippines (NPC 1999).

What is Plumbing?
Plumbing is the art and technique of installing pipes, fixtures other apparatuses in buildings
for bringing the supply, liquids, substances &/or ingredients removing them such water,
liquid other carried wastes hazardous to health, sanitation, life, property also the pipes and
fixtures after installation i.e., the plumbing system.

A Plumbing System includes all potable water supply distribution pipes, all plumbing fixtures
and traps; all sanitary and storm drainage systems vent pipes; roof drains, leaders and
downspouts; and all building drains sewers, including their respective joints and connections
devices; receptacles, tap, hot and chilled water pipings potable water treating or using
equipment; fuel gas piping; water heaters and vents for same.

A plumbing appliance is any one of a special class of device or equipment intended to

perform a special plumbing function. Such device or equipment may operate automatically
or may be manually adjusted or controlled by the user or operator.

A plumbing appurtenance is a manufactured device or a prefabricated assembly or an on

the job assembly of component parts, and serves as adjunct to the basic piping system
plumbing fixtures. An appurtenance demands no additional water supply nor does it add any
discharge load to a fixture or the drainage system It performs some useful functions in the
operation, maintenance, servicing, economy or safety of the plumbing system.
Water Cycle of Plumbing System

1. Water Supply & Distribution System

It carries water from the water source, street main or a pump to the building & to
various points of use.

2. Plumbing Fixtures
The receptacles that receive the supplied water & allow the building occupants to
avail & use the water.

3. Drainage, Waste & Vent

The piping network within the building which conveys from the plumbing fixtures
all wastes and rainwater to a treatment facility & point of disposal.

Who is the Plumber?

The Plumber is the one who works or engages in the business of installing in buildings the
pipes, fixtures and other apparatus for bringing in the water supply and removing liquid and
waterborne wastes.

There are 3 categories of plumbers:

1. Apprentice Plumber–a beginner at the trade who usually serves for 3 to 5 years as a
helper to a journeyman.
2. Journeyman Plumber –has served his apprenticeship and is competent to perform
the tasks of installing and repairing the plumbing system.
3. Master Plumber–a person technically and legally qualified and licensed to practice
the profession of master plumbing without limitations in accordance with R.A. 1378,
 having passed the examinations conducted by the Professional Regulation
Commission, has received a Certificate of Registration from the Board of Master
Plumbing and possesses the current License to Practice. (Sec. 214.5 NPC 1999)

What is the Plumbing Code?

The Plumbing Code is manifestation of the right of the government to regulate the practice
of the plumbing profession based on the principle of the protection of public health. The
basic goal of the National Plumbing Code of the Philippines is to ensure the qualified
observance of the latest provisions of the plumbing & environmental laws.

There are 22 basic principles of the 1999 National Plumbing Code of the Philippines which
are updates of the tenets in the “Plumbing Law of the Philippines” approved on 18 June 1955
as amended on 28 November 1959 and revised on 21 December 1999.
 22 BASIC PRINCIPLES OF THE 1999 NATIONAL PLUMBING CODE OF THE
PHILIPPINES

Principle No. 1

All premises intended for human habitation, occupancy or use shall be provided
with a supply of pure and wholesome water, neither connected with unsafe supplies
nor subject to hazards of backflow or back siphonage.

KEYWORDS:

CROSS-CONNECTION – any connection or arrangement, physical or otherwise,

between a potable water supply system and any plumbing fixture or tank, receptacle,
equipment or device, through which enables non-potable, used, unclean, polluted,
contaminated water or other substances to enter into any part of such potable water
system under any condition. (Section 204.24, NPCP 1999)

BACKFLOW – the flow of water or other liquids, mixtures or substances into the
distributing pipes of a potable supply of water from any source other than from its
intended source. (Section 203.1, NPC 1999)

BACK-SIPHONAGE – the flowing back of used, contaminated or polluted water from a

plumbing fixture or vessel into a water supply due to a negative pressure in such
pipe. (Section 203.5, NPC 1999)

BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES, ASSEMBLIES and METHODS

ATMOSPHERIC VACUUM BREAKER (AVB) –has an air inlet valve that closes
when the water flows in the normal direction. But, as water ceases to flow the
air inlet valve opens, thus interrupting the possible back-siphonage effect.
(Section 603.2.2, NPC 1999)

AIR GAP, WATER DISTRIBUTION - An unobstructed vertical distance through

the free atmosphere between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet
conveying potable water to the flood level rim of any tank, vat or fixture.

DOUBLE CHECK VALVE BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY

 REDUCED PRESSURE PRINCIPLE BACKFLOW PREVENTION ASSEMBLY

Principle No. 2

Plumbing fixtures, devices and appurtenances shall be supplied with water in

sufficient volume & at a pressure adequate to enable them to function
satisfactorily & without undue noise under normal conditions of use.

KEYWORD: PRESSURE

Inadequate Water Pressure –whenever the water pressure in the main or other
source of supply will not provide a water pressure of at least 103 kPa(15 psi) after
allowing friction and other pressure losses, a hydro pneumatic pressure tank or an
elevated tank and booster pump will provide 103 kPa pressure. (Section 607.1, NPC
1999)

Excessive Water Pressure –when the local water pressure is in excess of 551 kPa(80
psi), an approved-type pressure regulator preceded by an adequate sized strainer
shall be installed to reduce pressure on the building side of the regulator to the
required supply pressure. (Section 607.2, NPC 1999)
WATER HAMMER – is a pressure surge or wave resulting when a fluid in motion is
forced to stop or change direction suddenly (momentum change). Water hammer
commonly occurs when a valve is closed suddenly at an end of a pipeline system and
a pressure wave propagates in the pipe. It may be known as hydraulic shock. This
pressure wave can cause major problems from noise and vibration to pipe collapse.

AIR CHAMBER –is a space filled with air, commonly to act as cushion or shock
absorber for equalizing the flow of liquid in a pump or part of the hydraulic system
Principle No. 3

Plumbing shall be designed and adjusted to use the minimum quantity of water
consistent with proper performance and cleaning.

Principle No. 4

Devices for heating and storing water shall be so designed and installed as to
prevent dangers from explosion through overheating.
Principle No. 5

Every building having plumbing fixtures installed & intended for human
habitation, occupancy or use on premises abutting on a street, alley or easement
where there is a public sewer, shall be connected to the public sewer system.
Principle No. 6

Each family dwelling unit on premises abutting on a sewer or with a private

sewage disposal system shall have at least one water closet & once kitchen-type
sink. Further, a lavatory or bathtub or shower shall be installed to meet the basic
requirement of sanitation & personal hygiene.

Principle No. 7

Plumbing fixtures shall be made of smooth non-absorbent material, free from

concealed fouling surfaces & shall be located in ventilated enclosures.

Principle No. 8

The drainage system shall be designed, constructed and maintained to safeguard

against fouling, deposit of solids, clogging and with adequate cleanouts so
arranged that the pipes might be readily cleaned.

Page 18 of 187
Principle No. 6

Page 19 of 187
Principle No. 9

All piping of plumbing systems shall be of durable NAMPAP –APPROVED materials,

free from defective workmanship, designed & constructed by Registered Master
Plumbers to ensure satisfactory service.

(Left) Piping of Plumbing Systems, (Right) water-sealed traps

Principle No. 10

Each fixture directly connected to the drainage system shall be equipped with water
–sealed trap.
Principle No. 11

The drainage piping system shall be designed to provide adequate circulation of

free air from siphonage, aspiration or forcing of trap seals under ordinary use.

Page 20 of 187
Principle No. 12

Vent terminals shall extend to the outer air and installed to preempt clogging and
the return of foul air to the building.

Principle No. 13

Plumbing systems shall be subjected to such tests to effectively disclose all leaks
and defects in the workmanship.

Page 21 of 187
Principle 13 Keywords:

Testing Media –the piping of the plumbing, drainage and venting system shall be
tested with water or air. (Section 501.2.2, NPC 1999)

WATER TEST –the water test shall be applied to the drainage and vent system either
in its entirety or in sections. The water shall be kept for at least 15 minutes before
inspection starts. (Section 501.2.3, NPC 1999)

AIR TEST –the air test shall be made by attaching an air compressor testing apparatus
to any suitable opening, and after closing all other inlets and outlets of the system,
air is forced into the pipe system until there is a uniform gauge pressure of 34.5 kPa
(5 psi) or sufficient to balance a column of mercury 254 mm in height. The pressure
shall be held without introduction of additional air for a period of at least 15
minutes. (Section 501.2.4, NPC 1999)

WATER PIPING –upon completion of a section or of the entire hot and cold water
supply systems, it shall be tested and proved tight under a water pressure not less
than the working pressure under which it is to be used plus 50%. The water for test
shall be obtained from a potable source of supply. A 344.5 kPa (50 psi) air pressure
may be substituted for the water test. In either method of test, the piping shall
 withstand the test without leaking for a period of not less than 15 minutes. (Section
501.2.6, NPC 1999)

Principle No. 14

No substance which will clog the pipes, produce explosive mixtures ,destroy the
pipes or their joints or interfere unduly with the sewage disposal process shall be
allowed to enter the building drainage system.

Principle No. 15

Proper protection shall be provided to prevent contamination of food, water,

sterile goods & similar materials by backflow of sewage. When necessary, the
fixture, device or appliance shall be connected indirectly with the building
drainage system.

Principle No. 16

No water closet shall be located in a room or compartment which is not properly

lighted or ventilated.
Principle No. 17

If water closets or other plumbing fixtures are installed in buildings where there
is no sewer within a reasonable distance, suitable provision shall be made for
disposing of the building sewage by some accepted method of sewage treatment
and disposal, such as septic tank.

Principle No. 18

Where a plumbing drainage system may be subject to backflow of sewage, suitable

provision shall be made to prevent its overflow in the building.

Page 24 of 187
Principle No. 19

Plumbing systems shall be maintained in serviceable condition by Registered

Master Plumbers.

Principle No. 20

All plumbing fixtures shall be properly spaced, to be accessible for their intended
use.

Principle No. 21

Plumbing shall be installed by Registered Master Plumbers with due regard to the
preservation of the strength of structural members and the prevention of damage
to walls and other surfaces through fixture usage.

Page 25 of 187
Principle No. 22
Sewage or other waste from a plumbing system which may be deleterious to
surface or sub –surface waters shall not be discharge into the ground or onto any
waterway, unless first rendered innocuous through subjection to some acceptable
form of treatment.

Page 26 of 187
Page 27 of 187
 SELF -CHECK

Based on the 1999 National Plumbing Code of Philippines:

1. Enumerate the 22 Basic Principles of Plumbing and their importanct.

2. What are the seven code of ethics?

Page 28 of 187
 LESSON 2 :
DRAINAGE, WASTE and VENT
(DWV SYSTEM)

Learning Outcomes:
After reading this Information Sheet, you must be able to:
1. Identify the various parts and function of Drainage, Waste and Vent Systems
2. Design the Drainage and Sanitary Systems

Information Sheet 2.01

The 4 Major Components of the Drainage System:
Sanitary or Soil Drainage System – the piping that conveys the discharge of water closets or
fixtures having similar functions (containing fecal matter), with or without the discharges
from other fixtures.

Waste Drainage System – the piping that receives the liquid discharge from plumbing
fixtures other than water closets. It is free of fecal matter.

Vent System – The piping installed to provide a flow of air to or from a drainage system or to
provide a circulation of air within such system to protect trap seals from siphonage and back
pressure.

Page 29 of 187
Storm Drainage System - the piping system that receives clear water drainage from leaders,
downspouts, surface runoff, ground water, subsurface water, condensate water, cooling
water or other similar

Page 30 of 187
Terms and Definitions in the DWV System:
Building Drain – is that part of the lowest horizontal piping of a drainage system which
receives the discharge from soil, waste & other drainage pipes inside the walls of the building
& conveys it to the building sewer beginning 600 mm outside the building wall. It is also
known as House Drain.

Building Sewer – is that part of the horizontal piping of a drainage system which starts from
the end of the building drain & receives the discharge of the building drain & conveys it to
the public sewer, private sewer, individual sewage disposal system or other point of
disposal.

House Sewer – is that part of a plumbing system extending from the house drain at a point
600 mm from the outside face of the foundation wall of a building to the conjunction with
the street sewer or to any point of discharge, and conveying the drainage of one building
site.

Waste pipe – a pipe which conveys only wastewater or liquid waste, free of fecal matter.

Soil pipe – any pipe which conveys the discharge of water closet, urinal or fixtures having
similar functions, with or without the discharges from other fixtures to the building drain or
building sewer.

Soil Stack pipe – A vertical soil pipe conveying fecal matter and wastewater.

Vent pipe – a pipe or opening used for ensuring the circulation of air in a plumbing system
and for relieving the negative pressure exerted on trap seals.

Vent Stack – the vertical vent pipe installed primarily for providing circulation of air to and
from any part of the soil, waste of the drainage system.

Stack Vent – the extension of a soil or waste stack above the highest horizontal drain
connected to the stack.

Branch Vent – a horizontal vent connecting one or more individual vertical back vents with
the vent stack or stack vent.
 Information Sheet 2.0
What is a Drain?
A Drain is a pipe, which carries ground and surface waters, storm water or wastewater into a
building drainage system. The common types of drains are the floor drains and the roof
drains. The 2 types of drain connections are the direct drain connection and the indirect
drain connection.

What is a Trap?
A Trap is a fitting or device designed and constructed to provide, when properly vented, a
liquid seal which prevents the backflow of foul air or methane gas without materially
affecting the flow of sewage or wastewater through it. The types of watersealed traps are:

1. P-trap – is the most widely used for fixtures, common diameter sizes are 32mm (1-
1/4”) and 38mm (1-1/2”).
2. Drum trap – is used mostly for bathtubs. It has the advantage of containing a larger
volume of water & discharging a greater volume of water than a P-trap.
3. Grease Interceptor / Grease Trap – Grease interceptor is an interceptor of at least 3
cubic meter capacity to serve one or more fixtures and which is remotely located.
Grease trap is a device designed to retain grease from one to a maximum of four
fixtures.
4. House Trap/Running trap – a device installed to prevent circulation of air between
the drainage of the building and the building sewer.

Types of Waterseal Traps:

What is a Vent?
A Vent is a pipe or opening that brings outside air into the plumbing system and equalizes
the pressure on both sides of a trap to prevent trap seal loss. Inadequate ventilation usually
causes the loss of trap seal. At sea level, atmospheric pressure is about 102 kPa (14.75 psi).
Any difference between this pressure and the pressure on the discharge side forces the
water seal into the direction of less pressure. Venting the discharge side of the trap to the
atmosphere tends to equalize these pressures.

Causes of Trap Seal Loss

Siphonage is the withdrawal of a liquid from a trap due to a suction caused by liquid flow in a
pipe without proper ventilation.
1. Direct or Self – siphonage
2. Indirect or Momentum siphonage
Back Pressure or Back Siphonage – pressure developed in opposition to the flow of liquid in
a pipe due to friction, gravity or some other restriction to the flow of the conveyed liquid.
Evaporation – occurs when a fixture is not used for a long time.
Capillary Attraction – a foreign object lodged in the trap causes loss of trap seal by capillary
action by acting as a wick.
Wind Effect
What are the Types of Vents?

 Soil and Waste Vent

 Relief Vent
 Main Vent
 Yoke Vent
 Individual Vent or Back
 Wet Vent Vent
 Looped Vent
 Unit Vent
 Local Vent
 Circuit Vent or Loop
 Utility Vent

Section 906 VENT
TERMINATION VERTICAL SURFACE

300 mm

906.1 Each vent pipe or stack through roof

(SV TR) shall extend its flashing all around and
150 mm
(minimu
the stack vent shall terminate vertically not less
m) than 15 cm above the roof nor less than 0.3
meter from any vertical surface nearby.

VEIIT-
4•--,
905. 4 ... the vent through roof (VSTR) shall be
I increased 1 pipe size above the reconnection point
.
I
I
t
of stack vent and horizontal vent.

.
VIN
T

3000mm
10 ft. min.

900mm 300mm
3 ft. min. 12"

150mm
300mm
12'' min. 6"
3 ft . min.
900 m 1,rW aterpr oof
150mm fl ashin, g T_yp.
iD 6'' min.
C
:.:::
i
a Openable
z;,
0.
Parapet Wall
.:i window
ct
0

These are Minimum Distances

Vents Termination above Roof & from Openings
Air admittance valves offer a substitute for running vent pipes to the outside of buildings.
These valves open automatically to let fresh air into the sanitary system if there is a decrease
in air pressure within the system. The valves close automatically, to avoid the discharge of
foul air, whenever the pressure in the system is equal to or greater than the external
pressure.
You can use air admittance valves for:

 trap vents
 group vents
 stack vents
 branch drains.

These are not suitable for upstream venting of a main drain (unless there are two upstream
vents, in which case one may be an air admittance valve). They should be installed in the
same location and using the same method as the vent they are replacing.
Conventional Looped Vent Studor System
 Information Sheet 2.03
Septic Tank
Septic Tank is a discharge of a sanitary plumbing system or part thereof, designed and
constructed to retain solids, diigest organic matter through a period of detention and to
allow the liquids to discharge into the soil outside of the tank through a system of open-
jointed sub- surface pipings or a seepage pit meeting the requirements of the National
Plumbing Code.
 The vaults and chambers are
vented th rough the sa nitar y
tees in t he inlet and outlet
having the top ends open and
screened to make the tan k Manhole: Min imum of 2 with
mosquit o proof Minimum Dimension of 508m m x
508mm placed over the inlet and the
outlet

228.6mm
M inimum Air
Space or
Fr eeboard

Liquid Depth :
LEACHING 00111,. 'THIC.QIB W/
600mm CHAMBER
121111111J V$rr!CAL BAR
AT600mm OJ:. AN>
HORl?DHTAL BAR AT
[minimum) to
1800mm
[maximu m)

ONGITUDINAL SECT,ION
If the Septic Tank is over 6 cubic
meters,
The bottom of the tank should slope (1:10) towards the
center and below the manhole to facilitate cleaning the minimum lengt h of Secondary
Com par tment shall be 1500mm.
 c
bi tic
cu ep
1 S
of of
ity ity
ac ac
ap ap
C lC
um ota
im T
in e
M th
t: o f
en 1/3
rtm of
pa m
om u
C
y x im
ar a
nd r M
co r o
Se ete k
m an
T
d
le
al
st
in
or
ed
ct

e
od
ru

C
st

ng
e. n

bi
us co

m
lu
ho l be

P
n al
r a al

io
at
de sh

N
il.
un nk

Ph
or ta

59
in ptic

19
e
th
w o se

of
33
N
it h

2
c.
Se
Sizing of the Septic Tank
Septic tank should be properly sized due to the following conditions:

1. A septic tank of smaller capacity is impractical because some leeway must be allowed
for storage of accumulated sludge.
 2. A tank of larger size is not advisable because retarded bacterial activity is liable to
result.

Methods of Sizing the Septic Tank

1. The Philippine National Plumbing Code of 1959 (Sec. 233) provides the standard sizes
of septic tanks based on the capacity (the number of persons) served by the tank.
2. The 1999 Revised National Plumbing Code of the Philippines uses the Estimated
Waste/Sewage Flow Rates of the Design Population in sizing the septic tank. (Tables
B- 2 and B-3).
3. If the number of persons served (design population) is not available, the Fixture Unit
Method may be employed.
4. If the values for the estimated waste flow rate are not available, use the following
volume: - For residential installations, allow 0.14 to 0.17 cubic meter of tank content
per person. - For school, commercial or industrial purposes, allow 0.06 to 0.09 cubic
meter of tank content per person.

Method 2a: Estimated Waste/Sewage Flow Rates (Table B-2, 1999 National Plumbing Code)
Capacity of Septic Tanks*
SINGLE MINIMUM SEPTIC TANK CAPACITY IN:
MULTIPLE
FAMILY OTHER USES:
DWELLING
DWELLING MAX. DFU
UNITS or GALLONS LITERS CUBIC METERS
(NO. OF SERVED
APARTMENTS
BEDROOMS)
1 or 2 --- 15 750 2838 2.84
3 --- 20 1000 3785 3.79
4 2 units 25 1200 4582 4.58
5 or 6 3 units 33 1500 5677.5 5.68
--- 4 units 45 2000 7570 7.57
--- 5 units` 55 2250 8516.3 8.52
--- 6 units 60 2500 9462.5 9.46
--- 7 units 70 2750 10,408.8 10.41
--- 8 units 80 3000 11,355 11.36
--- 9 units 90 3250 12,301.3 12.30
--- 10 units 100 3500 13,247.5 13.25
Extra Bedroom: 150 gallons (567.8 liters) each
Extra Dwelling Units over 10: 250 gallons (946.3 liters)
Extra Fixture Units over 100: 25 gallons (94.6 liters) per fixture unit

*Septic Tank sizes in this table include sludge storage capacity and the connection disposal of domestic food
waste units without further volume increase.
Method 2b: Estimated Waste/Sewage Flow Rates (Table B-3, 1999 National Plumbing Code)
Manufactured or prefabricated septic tanks shall comply with all approved applicable
standards and be approved by the Administrative Authority. Independent laboratory tests
and engineering calculations certifying the tank capacity and structural stability shall be
provided as required by the Administrative Authority.
Plastic Purifying Septic Tank (PPST): Courtesy of KOTEC PLASTIC CORPORATION.
Invented by a Korean Engineer, Soon Weon Seo in 1997
Private Sewage Disposal System –a septic tank with the effluent discharging into a
subsurface disposal field, seepage pits or of such other facilities as may be permitted by the
plumbing code.

Sanitary Drain Field

 Information Sheet 2.04
Materials for Drainage Pipes and Fittings
Excreta Drainage Piping materials are:
 Cast Iron
 Ductile Iron
 Galvanized Steel
 Galvanized Wrought Iron,
 Lead
 Copper
 Brass
 Series 1000 PVC DWV
 Extra Strength Vitrified Clay Pipe
 or other approved materials having smooth and uniform bore.

Drainage pipes are the pipes that convey wastes from the building to an approved point of
disposal.
Drainage fittings are the pipe accessories in the drainage system, such as coupling, bend, wye,
etc., used to join two or more pipes together or to change their direction.

The Types of Drainage Pipes are:

 Sanitary or Soil pipe –the pipe which carries the wastes from water closets, urinals or
fixtures of similar function to the building drain. This contains human excrement.
 Waste pipe –the pipe which carries only liquid wastes, free of human excrement or
fecal matter.
  Vent pipe –the pipe connected to the drainage system that conveys air to and from
the system and keep the water from being siphoned from the trap.
 Storm pipe –the pipe which convey rainwater from the roof gutter to the building
storm drain.

CAST IRON SOIL PIPES (CISP)

Cast Iron Soil Pipe –is made from an alloy of iron, carbon& silicon, with the controlled
amounts of manganese, sulfur & phosphorous. This is primarily used for sanitary drain,
waste and storm water systems.

Classification of CISP

1. Class A – Extra Heavy (XH)–is often used for underground applications. Class A (100
psi); for underground installations
2. Class B – Service Weight (SV) –is used for general building installations. Class B (50
psi); for general building installations

Properties of CISP

 Available Diameter (Nominal I.D.): 2”, 3”, 4”, 5”, 6”, 8”, 12”, and 15”
 Length: 1500mm (5’) and 3000mm (10’)
 Hydrostatic Test:
o 345 kPa (50 psi) for Service Weight
o 690 kPa (100 psi) for Extra Heavy)
 Affected to some extent by corrosion by acid formed by Carbon Dioxide, Sulphur
Oxide, and Methane Gases that create rust

SPIGOT –is the end of the pipe that fits into a bell.

SINGLE HUB –is equipped with 1 hub & 1 spigot end and used in the installation of plumbing
in its full length.
DOUBLE HUB–is constructed with hub on each end so it may be cut into 2 pieces when a
short piece of pipe is needed.

HUBLESS PIPES –are cast iron pipes with plain ends connected together with bolted stainless
steel bands and neoprene gaskets.
CAST IRON SOIL PIPE (CISP) FITTINGS
CAST IRON SOIL PIPE (CISP): TYPES OF JOINT

1. Caulked joint or Calk Joint

2. Neoprene Compression Gasket
3. Stainless Steel couplings for hub-less pipes

CAST IRON SOIL PIPE (CISP): Caulked Joint

NOTE: Remember to wear appropriate personal protective equipment to work with molten
lead. Wear safety glasses and full length shirt and pants of non-synthetic material.

Always be sure to warm tools and materials that are being placed into molten lead remove
any condensing moisture which might react explosively.

Cast iron soil pipe joints, also known as caulked joints, when made with oakum fiber and
lead, are leak-proof, rot-proof, strong and flexible. The waterproofing qualities of oakum
fiber have long been recognized by plumbers. Molten lead, when poured over oakum in the
hub end of the pipe, completely seals and locks the joint. After the lead has cooled a minute
or two, it can be caulked into the joint.

CAULKING –plugging an opening with oakum, lead or other materials that are pounded into
the annular space. Also the material pounded into the annular opening. (Sec. 204.1)

Oakum –hemp or old hemp rope soaked in oil or tar to make it waterproof.

The table below lists the amounts of materials needed per joint for various sizes of pipe.

Yarning irons are used to pack the oakum into the joint.
Caulking irons are used to drive the lead firmly into the joint. This is necessary because lead
shrinks when it cools. Therefore, to produce a tight seal, the lead must be caulked tofill the
joint.
Inside and Outside Calking Irons

There are “inside” and “outside” caulking irons. Outside caulking irons are used to shape the
lead to the inside of the hub. Inside caulking irons are used to shape the lead near the spigot.

Making Vertical Caulked Joints

To assemble vertical, upside-down and horizontal caulked joints, the plumber should follow
these procedures:

1. Wipe the hub and spigot ends dry and free from any other foreign materials.
MOISURE CAN CAUSE MOLTEN LEAD TO EXPLODE OUT OF A JOINT. SERIOUS
INJURIES CAN RESULT. If necessary, dry the ends with a heating torch to eliminate all
traces of moisture.
2. Slide spigot end into the hub of the other pipe and align the joint. A cut piece of pipe
has no spigot bead, so extra care should be taken to center the cut end in the hub.
3. Using a yarning iron, pack the oakum around the pipe. Repeat this operation until the
hub is packed to about 1” from its top. Pack the oakum with a hammer and packing
iron to make a bed for the molten lead.
4. Using the plumber’s ladle, carefully pour the molten lead into the joint. Dip enough
lead to fill the joint in one pouring. Allow a minute or two for the molten lead to
harden and change in color from royal blue to a dull grey. Usually, one pound of lead
is melted for each inch of pipe size.
5. Caulk the joint first using the outside caulking iron and then the inside caulking iron.
The first four blows should be struck 90 degrees apart around the joint to set the
pipe. Drive the lead down on the oakum and into contact with the spigot surface on
one edge and the inner surface of the hub on the other. Use firm but light hammer
blows. Caulking the lead too tightly may create pressures high enough to crack the
pipe. If this occurs, the broken section must be replaced.

Making Horizontal Caulked Joints

1. Prepare the ends of the pipe and pack the joint with oakum as in vertical joints.
2. Clamp the joint runner in place around the pipe and fill the joint with molten lead.
 3. After the lead hardens, remove the runner and trim off the surplus.
4. Caulk the joint as a vertical joint, but use the inside iron first.

CAST IRON SOIL PIPE (CISP): Neoprene Compression Gasket Joint

The compression gasket is a precision molded one-piece gasket that is made of an elastomer
that meets the requirements of ASTM C-564. The physical characteristics of this elastomer
ensures that the gasket will not decay or deteriorate from contact with the materials flowing
in the pipe or chemicals in the soil or air around the pipe.

CAST IRON SOIL PIPE (CISP): Stainless Steel Coupling for Hub-less Pipe Joint

Hub-less cast iron soil pipe and fittings are simply pipe and fittings manufactured, without a
hub, in accordance with ASTM A888 or CISPI 301. The method of joining these pipe and
fittings utilizes a hub-less coupling which slips over the plain ends of the pipe and fittings and
is tightened to seal it. Hub-less cast iron soil pipe and fittings are made in only one class or
thickness. There are many varied configurations of fittings and both pipe and fittings range in
sizes from 1 1/2" to 10". Couplings for use in joining hub-less pipe and fittings are also
available in these same size ranges from the member companies of the Cast Iron Soil Pipe
Institute.

Shielded Hub-less Coupling

The shielded hub-less coupling for cast iron soil pipe and fittings is a plumbing concept that
provides a more compact arrangement without sacrificing the quality and permanence of
cast iron. The illustrated design in Figure 1 shows the system typically uses a one-piece
neoprene gasket, a shield of stainless steel retaining clamps. The great advantage of the
system is that it permits joints to be made in limited-access areas. The 300 series stainless
steel, which is often used with hub-less couplings, was selected because of its superior
corrosion resistance. It is resistant to oxidation, warping and deformation, offers rigidity
under tension with a substantial tensile strength, and yet provides sufficient flexibility.

In the illustration shown, the shield is corrugated in order to grip the gasket sleeve and give
maximum compression distribution. The stainless steel worm gear clamps compress the
neoprene gasket to seal the joint. The gasket absorbs shock, vibration and completely
eliminates galvanic action between the cast iron soil pipe and the stainless steel shield.
ABS and PVC DWV piping installations
ABS and PVC DWV piping installations shall be used in high-rise buildings, provided that its
use shall be the discretion of the Master Plumber/Designer and also with the full consent of
the owner.

ABS pipe and fittings are made from a thermoplastic resin called Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-
Styrene (ABS for short).

A polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe is made from a plastic and vinyl combination material. The
pipes are durable, hard to damage, and long lasting. A PVC pipe does not rust, rot, or wear
over time. For that reason, PVC piping is most commonly used in water systems,
underground wiring, and sewer lines.

PVC was first developed in 1925 when a BF Goodrich employee, Dr. Waldo Semon,
attempted to invent a method for bonding metal and rubber. After blending materials
together to create a strong and flexible material, Semon discovered PVC. Nonetheless, the
product remained virtually useless for another decade. In the late 1930s, PVC was found to
have great shock absorbing abilities. This discovery led to the creation of long lasting PVC tire
treads, which were created with flexible forms of PVC.

Two decades later, PVC pipe was invented. By heating the PVC material, a special machine
called an extruder could be used to push it into hollow pipes. This PVC pipe was extremely
solid and virtually indestructible. Using these pipes for irrigation systems proved to be
effective, and PVC pipe has since been considered an affordable and reliable means for
water piping.
FIXTURE CONNECTIONS (EXCRETA DRAINAGE)
Two fixtures set back-to-back, or side-by-side, within the distance allowed between a trap
and its vent, may be served by a single vertical drainage pipe provided that each fixture
wastes separately into an approved double fixture fitting, such as double sanitary tee or
double wye and 1/8 bend having inlet openings at the same level.
 (Left) Double Sanitary Tee & (Right) Double Wye & 1/8 Bends

Changes in Direction of Excreta Drainage Flow

705.1 Changes in direction of drainage piping shall be made by the appropriate use of
approved fittings and shall be of the angles presented by a 22-1/2⁰ or 1/16 bend, 45⁰ or 1/8
bend, and 60⁰ or 1/6 bend, or other approved fittings of equivalent sweeps.

705.2 Horizontal drainage lines, connecting with a vertical stack, shall enter through 45 or 60
degree wye branches, combination wye and 1/8 bend branches, sanitary tee or sanitary
tapped tee branches, or other approved fittings of equivalent sweep. No fitting having more
than one (1) inlet at the same level shall be used unless such fitting is constructed so that the
discharge from one (1) inlet cannot readily enter any other inlet. Double sanitary tees may
be used when the barrel of the fitting is at least two (2) pipe sizes larger than the largest
inlet, (pipe sizes recognized for this purpose are 51, 64, 76, 89, 102, 114, 127, 152 mm, etc.)

705.3 Horizontal drainage lines connecting with other horizontal drainage lines shall enter
through 45 degree wye branches, combination wye and 1/8 bend branches or other
approved fittings of equivalent sweep.

704.4 Vertical drainage lines connecting with horizontal drainage lines shall enter through
forty-five (45) degree branchesor other approved fittings of equivalent sweep. Sixty (60)
degree branches or offsets may be used only when installed in a true vertical position.
CLEANOUTS
706.1 Each horizontal drainage pipe shall be provided with a cleanout at its upper terminal
and each run of piping, which is more than 15 meters in total developed length shall be
provided with a cleanout and at every 15 meter length or a fraction thereof.

Exceptions:

706.1.1 Cleanouts may be omitted on a horizontal drain line less than 1.50 meter in length
unless such line is serving sinks or urinals.

706.1.2 Cleanouts may be omitted on any horizontal drainage pipe installed on a slope of
seventy-two (72) degrees) or less from the vertical angle (or an angle of1/5 bend),and

706.1.3 An approved type of two-way cleanout fitting, installed inside the building wall near
the connection between the building drain and building sewer or installed outside of a
building at the lower end of a building drain and extended to grade, may be substituted for
an upper terminal cleanout.

706.2 An additional cleanout shall be provided in a drainage line for each aggregate
horizontal change of direction exceeding one hundred and thirty-five (135) degrees.

706.3 Each cleanout shall be installed so that it opens to allow cleaning in the direction of
flow of the soil or waste or at right angles thereto and, except in the case of wye branch and
end- of-line cleanouts, shall be installed vertically above the flow line of the pipe.

706.4 Each cleanout extension shall be considered as drainage piping and each ninety (90)
degree cleanout extension shall be extended from a wye type fitting or other approved
fitting of equivalent sweep.

706.7 Each cleanout in piping 51mm or less in size shall be installed so that there is a
clearance of not less than 305mm in front of the cleanout. Cleanouts in piping larger than
51mm shall have a clearance of not less than 0.45 m in front of the cleanout.

Cleanouts in underfloor piping shall be extended to or above the finished floor or shall be
extended outside the building when there is less than 0.45 meter vertical and 0.75 meter
horizontal clearance from the means of access to such cleanout.
 Information 2.05
Sizing of the Drainage Pipings
DRAINAGE FIXTURE UNIT (DFU) METHOD

The Fixture Unit (F.U.) rating of plumbing fixtures shall be based on the size of the trap
required.

MAXIMUM TRAP LOADINGS

The fixture unit equivalent of fixtures and devices not shown, shall be based on the rated
discharge capacity in liters per second. For intermittent flow only.
For continuous flow into a drainage system, such as from sump pump or ejector, air
conditioning equipment or similar devices, 2 fixture units shall be allowed for every 0.063 L/S
(1 GPM) of flow.

The minimum sizes of vertical and/or horizontal drainage piping shall be determined from
the total of all fixture units connected thereto, and additionally, in the case of vertical
drainage pipes, in accordance with their height or length.
SUPLEMENTARY PROBLEMS NO. 1