pipework

Everyday

The pipes in a building, machine or system, taken all together, such as for water, gas or heating. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life, plumbers fix pipework under sinks or in the central heating. In science and technology, pipework carries water, gas or oil. Leaks or frozen pipework in winter are common problems; that is why pipes are lagged (wrapped) to keep them warm.

Examples

• The plumber checked the pipework under the sink. tree →
• Old pipework in the house was made of lead. tree →
• Frozen pipework can burst in winter. tree →
• The factory's pipework carries steam. tree →
• The boiler has a lot of pipework around it. tree →
• The pipework was painted red to show it carries hot water. tree →

Note

Uncountable: "the pipework", not "a pipework". Made of pipe + work, like "ironwork" or "brickwork".