About Charlotte Pipe & Foundry
About Charlotte Pipe & Foundry
Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company was established in 1901 by piping and heating contractor W. Frank Dowd in Charlotte, North Carolina, starting with just 25 employees casting iron soil pipes and fittings. The company has remained privately and family-owned across five generations since its founding, a rarity among manufacturers of its scale and longevity.
The company mechanized its foundry operations in the 1950s and expanded into plastic piping in 1967 to meet surging post-war demand, later adding industrial plastics production in 1992. Charlotte Pipe is now one of the largest makers of cast iron and plastic pipe and fittings in the US, and the only manufacturer offering a complete system across cast iron, PVC, CPVC, ABS, and FlowGuard Gold pipe and fittings.
Charlotte Pipe & Foundry's products are widely specified in plumbing, drainage, and industrial piping systems across residential, commercial, and institutional construction. On ChatMRO, contractors and facilities buyers can search by pipe material, diameter, or fitting type to find the right product for a plumbing system.
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Frequently asked questions
What pipe materials does Charlotte Pipe & Foundry manufacture?
Charlotte Pipe & Foundry manufactures cast iron, PVC, CPVC, ABS, and FlowGuard Gold pipe and fittings, making it the only manufacturer offering a complete system across all of these materials. This breadth allows buyers to source an entire plumbing or drainage system from a single manufacturer.
When should I use cast iron pipe instead of PVC or ABS?
Cast iron pipe is typically chosen for its sound-dampening properties and durability in drain, waste, and vent systems, particularly in multi-family or commercial buildings where noise reduction matters. PVC and ABS are often preferred where lighter weight, corrosion resistance, and easier installation are priorities.
What is FlowGuard Gold pipe used for?
FlowGuard Gold is Charlotte Pipe's CPVC pipe system designed for hot and cold water distribution in residential and commercial plumbing. It's commonly chosen as an alternative to copper or PEX for potable water lines.
Is Charlotte Pipe & Foundry still family-owned?
Yes, Charlotte Pipe and Foundry Company has remained privately and family-owned across five generations since its founding in 1901 by W. Frank Dowd. This long continuity has supported consistent manufacturing standards across more than a century of operation.
Does Charlotte Pipe supply both residential and industrial plumbing projects?
Yes, Charlotte Pipe & Foundry's product range spans residential plumbing, commercial drainage systems, and industrial plastics introduced in 1992, covering a broad range of project types. Specifying your project type and pipe diameter when searching helps match the correct product line.