What is a PVC Pipe and What Is It Made Of?

When installing your plumbing system, you have probably come across PVC pipes and wondered, “What is a PVC pipe made of?”

PVC pipes are excellent choices for homeowners who want to invest in quality plumbing. As a result, they are the most sought-after products globally.

PVC pipes are the most versatile plastic piping you’ll find on the market, and they have been around for many decades. Its primary raw material is polyvinyl chloride, which has beneficial chemical and physical properties for its application. Besides, it’s a safe and cost-effective piping option for many homeowners.

This guide offers the most helpful details you should know about PVC pipes. We’ll also help you understand the benefits of PVC pipes in plumbing systems. So, keep reading to discover more!

What is a PVC Pipe made of?

PVC is an acronym for polyvinyl chloride, which is the primary chemical compound in PVC pipes. In other words, it’s a chlorinated hydrocarbon made by combining chlorine with ethylene. As a result, the finished product will be a white or light-colored plastic, which is usually rigid and durable.

Although the PVC compound is rigid and brittle in its natural state, it can become more malleable and resilient when mixed with additives like plasticizers. So, it has several applications, including plumbing, electrical wiring, and water conveyance. You can also use PVC pipes in wastewater systems.

The good thing about PVC pipes is that they don’t rust quickly when they come in contact with common elements found in the environment. So, for example, you can install PVC pipes in underground systems exposed to acids, bases, salts, and oils, and they won’t get damaged easily.

What is PVC pipe used for?: Applications of PVC Pipes in residential and commercial settings

So far, you know how PVC pipes can be helpful in residential and commercial settings due to their outstanding properties. However, there are more things to learn about these PVC pipes, including their applications. Here are some uses of PVC pipes.

Water conveyance

The primary application of PVC pipes is to transport water in commercial and residential plumbing. These pipes can withstand high pressure, making them ideal for water conveyance. In addition, you can also use PVC pipes to channel cold water HVAC systems in your home.

Wastewater management

PVC pipes are suitable for wastewater management, as they can resist corrosion. They can transport waste from your property to the main sewer line without being compromised. Also, PVC pipes are easy to clean and maintain. As a result, they can help keep your sewer networks clean and functional.

Agricultural irrigation

PVC water supply pipes are also helpful in agricultural irrigation, saving up to 50 percent more water than open channel systems. PVC pipes are flexible, durable, and easy to install on farms and ranches. As a result, farmers and ranchers use them in irrigation systems to supply water evenly across pastures and fields, improving the health of livestock and crops.

Electrical wiring

You can use PVC piping for electrical wiring since it’s non-conductive. It’s also UV-resistant and flame-retardant, making it safer for electrical wiring. PVC is also helpful in bedding, insulation, and sheathing in electrical cable construction. However, be careful not to use plumbing PVC pipes in electrical applications. Instead, use electrical conduit PVCs specifically designed for electrical applications.

Pipeline networks

In pipeline connections, you can use PVC pipe fittings, such as branches, brackets, valves, clips, and bends. That’s because the weakness of a pipeline network normally depends on the integrity of its joints. PVC pipes can reinforce the junction points and update older pipeline systems that have worn out with age, so you won’t have to revamp the entire pipeline network.

Benefits of PVC pipes to take advantage of

Now that you know the potential uses of PVC pipes, you may wonder why PVC is an excellent choice for so many applications. PVC pipes offer several benefits, including durability and longevity.

Here are some reasons PVC pipes are helpful in residential and commercial settings.

- Lightweight and easy to install: Since PVC pipes are light, they’re an excellent option for projects that require lightweight materials. For example, installing plumbing systems in existing high-rise structures calls for lightweight plumbing lines.
- Resistant to corrosion: PVC pipes can resist corrosion and harsh weather conditions, making them suitable for outdoor applications. Besides, you won’t have to worry about rusting when transporting water and wastewater through the pipes.
- Long-lasting: PVC pipes are durable and have a long lifespan since they can withstand high pressure and harsh environmental conditions. Therefore, they are an excellent choice if you want plumbing pipes that can last for many years.

Easy to install: Installing PVC pipes is easy since it only requires you to join the pipes using adhesive fittings or solvent welding. You can get pipe adhesives at your nearest hardware store. Then, with basic plumbing knowledge, you can even opt for DIY installation.

If you need assistance with pipe installation, the professionals at J Blanton Plumbing would be happy to help you.

Non-Toxic: PVC pipes are environmentally friendly and safe for indoor and outdoor applications since they don’t contain toxic elements. Although there have been debates about the safety of PVCs, studies reveal that PVCs are non-carcinogenic.

How PVC pipes differ from CPVC and UPVC

You may have come across CPVC and UPVC pipes and wondered how they differ from regular PVC pipes. Generally, PVC pipes comprise polyvinyl chloride, a compound responsible for its rigid and brittle nature. However, here’s how PVC differs from CPVC and UPVC pipes.

CPVC Pipes: These pipes are comprised of chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, making them more durable than PVC pipes. Since they are less likely to rust or crack, you can use them in places with high water pressure. Unfortunately, CPVC pipes are more costly than PVC pipes.
UPVC Pipes: These pipes are made of unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, which is a plastic that is more durable than both PVC and CPVC. Fortunately, they don’t rust or develop leaks quickly, making them an excellent choice for water-sensitive uses. However, they are also the most expensive option.

J. Blanton has the expertise needed for PVC pipe installation.

After this post, you can answer the question, “What is a PVC pipe?” PVC pipes are among the most preferred for transporting water in plumbing systems. This is because they resist corrosion, rust, and harsh weather conditions.

However, installing PVC pipes requires plumbing expertise, which is an excellent reason to hire professional plumbers at J. Blanton Plumbing to help you.