The National Clay Pipe Institute is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to research, education and leadership in the vitrified clay pipe sanitary sewer industry. Learn more
THE Sustainable Sewer Pipe
Clay – Shale – Water. In 2011, NCPI became the buried infrastructure industry to complete an ISO 14001-Compliant certification.
Clay pipe has been the preferred sewer pipe material for over 6,000 years.
100% of PVC was manufactured using
mercury, asbestos and/or PFAS.
We offer the unique perspective, history and knowledge of the longest-serving and longest-lasting pipe product available. click here for proof
We offer the unique perspective, history and knowledge of the longest-serving and longest-lasting pipe product available. click here for proof
The National Clay Pipe Institute is a not-for-profit technical resource for design, installation & operation of VCP gravity sewer systems.
The National Clay Pipe Institute is a
not-for-profit technical resource for design,
installation & operation of VCP gravity sewer systems.
Amazon Warehouse Project
Location: Canton, MI
The immediate need for this new Amazon Warehouse drove construction through the winter in Michigan! The structure of VCP in the trench helped to make this winter installation practical. See the Project Profile here
Going Deep in Southern California
Eastern Municipal Water District
Location: Perris, CA
36-in. VCP installed at depths of up to 40 feet
Eliminating System Back-Ups!
Location: Milwaukee, WI
The residents in this Milwaukee neighborhood were experiencing frequent basement backups during large rainfall events. Find out how Clark Dietz designed the solution here
Our Member Companies
Our Member Companies
Our Member Companies
“The long life and superior maintenance options make VCP the best long-term value for gravity sanitary sewer lines.”
At NCPI, we are united by a common goal and passion for expertise in design, research, education and leadership.
Explore our FAQ categories
NCPI is committed to your success in designing, installing and maintaining VCP in your system. Contact one of our member companies for assistance.
With over 100-years of research, publication and education, NCPI has extensive experience and a unique knowledge base.
Explore our articles, papers, Technical Notes & videos
Why NCPI?
We’re dedicated to your success in designing
installing & maintaining VCP lines in your system
Some quick facts about NCPI & VCP
6,000 Years
Clay pipe has been used in sewers for over 6,000 years, starting in Ephesus, in what is now Turkey.
100+ Years
NCPI has been a research institute for over 100-years. It was the first pipe material group to establish standards with ASTM.
5 Largest
Five of the six largest U.S. cities specify vitrified clay pipe.