How Romans Used To Build The Aqueducts

An aqueduct was the Roman solution to providing water to their towns and cities. The Romans constructed aqueducts with stone blocks that came from the quarries nearby. Romans also used concrete, mortar, tiles, or bricks to build the aqueducts. The channels of the aqueduct were then lined with a mixture of crushed tile and amphorae, called opus signium. The opus signium helped to waterproof the aqueduct channels. Finally, the Romans would layer the surface with a mixture of limestone and crushed ceramic.

While building the aqueducts, the Romans were sure to use proven, effective structuring and practical technologies. Due to the fear that enemies would attempt to destroy their source of water, aqueducts were mainly found underground. When confronted with a valley, the Romans used an inverted siphon to keep the aqueduct underground. The inverted siphon is a “U” shaped channel that water would flow up through due to the water level. Romans would also dig shafts, named purei, that every 230 feet to access to the underground portions of the aqueducts. Cranes would be used to lower the stones into place. Romans often used scaffolding would to hold up the arches while they were being constructed. Arches provided maximum support for the aqueducts. Pillars served as the base of the foundation. Sedimentation tanks and sluices were used to eliminate impurities in the water. Distribution tanks were used to regulate the water supplies.
The design of the aqueducts often contributed to its usefulness.
The Romans used arches extensively. Arches did not require a lot of stone to construct yet were very sturdy. In fact, the ancient architecture is still able to meet modern needs. For example, the Aqua Virgo built by the Romans is still used for irrigation and
fountains.

At the height of their use, aqueducts provided the city of Rome over 1.5 million gallons of water daily, which was 200 gallons of water per person each and every day. The aqueducts supported 11 grand scale public baths, and 900 other smaller scale public baths. The aqueducts also provided water to 1,900 monumental fountains and private swimming pools. The water from the aqueducts was essential for public sanitation. The aqueducts also helped business. Industries like mining, processing, manufacturing, and farming used water from the aqueducts.

The aqueducts were remarkable structural feats, but some things could have been improved. The Romans used lead in its pipes, unaware that lead would poison the water. Not using lead pipes would help keep people safe. Also, having better overall aqueduct gradients would ensure better and safer water flow. The Romans did not have access to modern materials, especially sealants which would reduce water leakage. Finally, modern filters and purification chemicals would make cleaner and safer water.