Lead and Copper Corrosion 101: Principles & Guidance Webinar

The goal for this webinar is to provide thorough and accessible information on (1) the factors leading to lead and copper corrosion, and (2) optimal control strategies based on a clear understanding of those factors. Significant work has been conducted in the last three-plus decades on lead and copper corrosion. Some of the published earlier works were instrumental in elucidating factors leading to pipe corrosion, but not all water practitioners are familiar with the information in those earlier works. Drs. Michael Schock and Darren Lytle will draw applicable information from publications from across the decades to provide the audience with clear understanding of the principles of lead and copper corrosion. The webinar will also highlight differences in lead and copper corrosion that require consideration from both the regulatory and operational perspectives.

Corrosion chemistry is complex, as illustrated by the range of water quality factors that can affect metals release from pipe scales. A clear understanding of those factors is needed to operate a water system in a manner to minimize metals release. This webinar will provide an accessible review of principles and guidelines regarding lead and copper corrosion, with the expectation that participants will be able to understand the potential effect of an operational change, such as a change in disinfectant type/residual, on pipe corrosion; and identify best practices and guidelines to minimize lead and copper release.

Learning Objectives

1. Understand the factors influencing lead or copper corrosion.
2. Identify best practices / guidelines to minimize the potential for lead or copper release. 
3. Interpret the differences among various corrosion indices and lead and copper solubility diagrams regarding the information they give and how they apply.
4. Communicate the motivation for potential changes to the Lead and Copper Rule.