Lead pipe localised cracks

[Andy B]

Just removing some old lead pipe today.

99 percent of it was 'as new' condition but one part (about 6 inches long) was cracked almost through in a number of places. As soon as I flexed it the pipe split open.

It looked like the lead had turned crystalline- the old fractures resembled cracked cast iron, however the lead was still ductile when I bent it.

Just curious as to why- anybody any idea?

I wondered if it had been frost damaged at some point but I can't see why only one section of pipe would freeze and not the rest. (It was under a house, in the middle of the floor).

Maybe it was a section that had been bent a few times when it was installed??

Cheers,

Andy

 

[Last Plumber]

Was it near a joint or a section that had been heated?

 

[Andy B]

Not near any joints- which were all fine.

Uploaded some pics- note I bent the pipe removing it- it was a straight section.

Also the cracks are old- the metal is black and there is dirt inside.

 

[Last Plumber]

That's just corroded lead. Possible that some foreign body has been inside it? Another metal perhaps?

 

[Chuck]

I'm not sure about the cracks but I do know you should wear gloves, e.g. latex or PVC disposable, when handling the stuff.