What type of wire must be buried with plastic pipe for locating purposes?

The correct choice is corrosion-resistant tracer wire because it is specifically designed for use with buried utilities to facilitate accurate and reliable locating of underground pipes. Tracer wire is typically constructed from materials that can withstand the harsh conditions of being buried, such as moisture, soil chemicals, and physical stress, allowing it to maintain integrity over time.

When installing plastic piping systems, tracer wire is laid alongside the pipe and serves as a signal conductor. This allows for the detection of the buried pipe using electronic locators. The wire's corrosion-resistant properties are crucial since it is in constant contact with moist soil that may contain corrosive elements. This ensures that the wire can function effectively for plumbing safety and maintenance needs, providing a dependable method for locating underground pipes without risk of degradation.

Other types of wire may not offer the necessary durability or conductivity needed for effective locating. For example, insulated copper wire might not provide adequate protection against corrosion over periods of burial, and continuous copper mesh, while possibly helpful, does not specifically meet the requirements for tracer applications. Non-insulated tape lacks the durability and conductivity needed for reliable operation in subterranean environments. Therefore, using corrosion-resistant tracer wire is essential for proper utility management and safety.