Cast iron soil pipe has proven to be a reliable plumbing solution for centuries, replacing early materials such as clay, lead, bronze, and wood that were prone to deterioration over time. In fact, the first-known cast iron water main installed at the Palace of Versailles in 1664 is still in use after over 360 years, proof that when it comes to longevity and sustainability, cast iron delivers.

While the cast iron soil pipe manufacturing process and intended application has evolved since the 17th century, many of the material’s benefits remain unchanged, including:

• Corrosion resistance 
• High-temperature tolerance 
• Mechanical strength 
• Non-combustible
• Noise reduction

In addition to these performance attributes, cast iron is also recognized for its sustainability and recyclability benefits. Made from a minimum of 96% post-consumer recycled material, Charlotte Pipe’s cast iron soil pipe and fittings are fully recyclable and ensure more sustainable, enduring construction. 

Specifying sustainable materials, including cast iron, can contribute to green building certifications such as LEED, helping modern construction projects meet environmental goals.

A History of Cast Iron Sustainability 

The early adoption of cast iron soil pipe as a plumbing solution marked the beginning of the material’s legacy of unmatched durability and performance. 

1746 – Cast iron goes into widespread use in England 

1785 – An engineer with Chelsea Water Company invents the bell-and-spigot, which is now known as hub-and-spigot and is still used extensively today 

1801 – Cast iron is first introduced in America where it’s used in Philadelphia for water supply and gas lighting systems 

1819 – Cast iron manufacturing is adopted in the U.S.

1901 – Charlotte Pipe and Foundry begins manufacturing high-quality pipe and fittings 

After emerging as a distinct category and preferred product choice in the 1890s, the cast iron soil pipe industry grew rapidly, keeping pace with the demand for water management systems in new construction. The fundamental strengths that made cast iron the gold standard then are still largely at play today.  

As cast iron manufacturing has evolved, modern foundries have enhanced their processes and equipment to improve their environmental impact. Today, Charlotte Pipe operates one of the most advanced cast iron foundries in the world in Oakboro, North Carolina, with over $58 million in environmental controls.

A Future-Focused Foundry

Inside Charlotte Pipe’s Oakboro Foundry, recycling helps drive daily production. The company collects and melts hundreds of thousands of pounds annually, diverting it away from overcrowded landfills and into new, high-quality plumbing materials. 

Scrap iron is collected from across the United States and transported to the foundry via railspur. Using a giant magnet, Charlotte Pipe maneuvers and melts the scrap to repurpose back into its pipe and fittings. 

Additionally, the opening of the Oakboro Foundry ushered in a transition from a fossil fuel melt system to electric, reducing annual carbon emissions by approximately 40,000 tons and further establishing Charlotte Pipe as an industry leader. 

Today, with cast iron products made from at least 96% recycled content, Charlotte Pipe continues its long-standing commitment to sustainable, durable solutions for the plumbing industry.

Discover more about Charlotte Pipe’s cast iron lineup.