What is tuberculation in the context of water pipes?

Tuberculation refers to the phenomenon where corrosion products, primarily iron oxides, accumulate inside a water pipe, leading to the formation of tubercles or nodular growths. This buildup reduces the effective diameter of the pipe, causing constraints on flow and potentially impacting water quality due to restricted flow paths and increased surface area for biofilm growth. As water moves through these corroded regions, it can lead to a reduction in hydraulic capacity and increased pressure loss, making it an important factor to monitor in water distribution systems. Understanding tuberculation is crucial for maintaining water systems, as it directly affects the reliability and safety of drinking water delivery.