In what situation is black iron pipe commonly used?

Black iron pipe is primarily used in situations where corrosion is not a major concern. This type of pipe is made from steel and has a black oxide scale on the surface, which can protect against some environmental factors but is not designed for corrosive environments. It is durable and cost-effective for plumbing applications, particularly for transferring natural gas or propane in residential or commercial systems where the risk of corrosion is minimal.

In contrast, applications requiring increased corrosion resistance typically favor materials like copper, plastic, or galvanized steel. Therefore, while black iron pipe is versatile, its use is generally confined to environments that are not prone to corrosion, making it a common choice for gas line installations and indoor systems where conditions remain stable.