Phosphate-Free Corrosion Inhibitor Protects Hydrotested Drinking Water Systems
February 6, 2026
How often do you think about drinking water storage tanks and the plumbing behind your walls? Unless you’re a plumber or building contractor, these components probably don’t come to mind often. But out of sight does not mean out of mind for corrosion, which can compromise drinking water pipes and tanks before they are ever put into service. As a result, Cortec® is encouraging contractors and plumbers to spread the word about VpCI®-649 HP, a phosphate-free corrosion inhibitor for protection during and after hydrotesting.
Hydrotesting of drinking water piping, fittings, and vessels is a standard practice after installation and before initial commissioning, as well as after repairs and idle periods. This critical step helps plumbers and contractors identify potential leaks and confirm that the system will withstand operating pressure. Unfortunately, the same water that confirms integrity also leaves behind residual moisture that can cause corrosion problems before tenants ever move into the structure and turn on the water. For years, Cortec® and other manufacturers have offered corrosion inhibitors for hydrotesting oil and gas pipelines, as well as all types of pressure vessels. The protection of drinking water systems presented another challenge, requiring the corrosion inhibitor to meet ANSI/NSF Standard 61 for drinking water system components. Cortec® met this challenge in 2023 with VpCI®-649 HP, a corrosion inhibitor that, when added as a surface treatment to hydrotesting water at concentrations up to 3% and drained, is certified to meet ANSI/NSF Standard 61. This exciting breakthrough now allows contractors and plumbers to hydrotest potable water pipes and tanks without leaving them prone to corrosion during construction waiting periods.
VpCI®-649 HP protects steel, copper, galvanized steel, and aluminum above and below the water level, covering a broad range of drinking water systems. It does not contain nitrite, phosphate, molybdenum, or chromate. Application can be confirmed with a PTSA tracer.
We all need drinking water. Drinking water systems need hydrotesting. Help contractors and plumbers avoid corrosion problems by introducing them to a simple corrosion solution that protects during and after this critical phase. Contact Cortec® for more details on how and why to use VpCI®-649 HP for hydrotesting of drinking water systems.
Keywords: phosphate free water treatment, corrosion inhibitor, phosphate free corrosion inhibitor, hydrotesting, hydrotesting drinking water systems, hydrotesting potable water storage tanks, Cortec, NSF drinking water compliant, drinking water infrastructure, water system commissioning
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