Features of PVC and CPVC pipes

PVC and CPVC are non-metallic pipes, made from thermoplastic materials. This clearly means that they are resistant to any chemical attack and have similar other advantages over metallic pipes. But they do come with their share of limitations.

These are regarded as plastic pipe works, and both fittings and pipes are available in these materials.

Following are some features of PVC and CPVC pipes:

1. PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride, and CPVC stands for Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride.
2. PVC and CPVC are quite robust.
3. Both of these are popularly used in plumbing processes and processes that are less critical.
4. After Polyethylene and Polypropylene, PVC remains the third most commonly produced synthetic plastic polymer.
5. CPVC is produced by chlorination of Polyvinyl Chloride resin.
6. They are exceptionally resistant to any chemical attack.
7. When at elevated temperatures, CPVC has a higher strength than the PVC. CPVC is also very flexible.
8. Both PVC and CPVC are affected by ultraviolet exposure and must be provided special protection against it if they are installed outdoors.
9. PVC and CPVC tend to soften when they are exposed to extremely high temperatures.
10. The PVC and CPVC pipes are made using the extrusion process while the valves, fittings, and flanges are made using the injection moulding method.
11. PVC is popularly used in water piping at homes and has several other industrial applications as well.