VCP stands for vitrified clay pipe. It is an underground drainage pipe made from a blend of clay and shale that is fired at extreme temperatures to create a glass-like, non-porous finish. Plumbers and utility workers encounter it mostly when repairing older municipal sewer lines or residential laterals. While highly resistant to chemical corrosion and sewer gases, it is brittle and prone to root intrusion at the bell-and-spigot joints.
The camera shows heavy root intrusion at the VCP joints, so we need to run a new plastic sleeve.
Because VCP is brittle, you have to use a snap cutter or a specialized diamond blade to cut it cleanly without shattering the line.
Related terms
Vitrified clay pipe
A heavy, fired-clay pipe used primarily for underground gravity sewer mains and laterals.
DWV
The non-pressurized pipe system that removes wastewater and sewer gases from a building.
Mainline
The primary underground sewer pipe that connects a building drainage system to the municipal sewer or septic tank.