Drinking water lead regulations: impact on the brass value chain

Abstract

A detailed review of regulations restricting the use of lead in potable water systems is provided in several regions including the United States (U.S.), Canada, the European Union (E.U.) and Japan to assess the impact on the brass value chain. Covered topics include: chronology of regulations, governing bodies, compliance requirements, enforcement mechanisms and other aspects relevant to metal suppliers, original equipment manufacturers, designers, specifiers, end-users and recyclers of brass. The development and use of lead-free brass alloys and how these materials have impacted manufacturing and recycling processes is also addressed.

This paper is part of a Themed Issue on Brass Alloys.

Keywords:

• Copper alloys
• Brass
• Rod and bar
• Lead regulation
• Drinking water
• Lead-free
• Scrap
• Recycling

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank his industry colleagues at the North American Copper Development Association, The U.S. Copper and Brass Fabricators Council, the European Copper Institute, the Deutsches Kupferinstitut and the Japanese Copper Development Association for their guidance and support in the preparation of this manuscript.