PVC and CPVC pipe have been widely used in plumbing applications for decades. When used correctly and installed properly, these durable pipes offer years of reliable performance.
They possess fire resistance due to their chemical composition. Furthermore, they are resistant to harsh acids, corrosives, and high temperatures.
Table of Contents
Cost
PVC and CPVC are two distinct types of pipe used for plumbing and venting applications. Both materials offer budget-conscious affordability, durability, and corrosion resistance; however, which one you select depends on several factors including how they compare to other materials as well as what applications you plan to utilize them for.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a thermoplastic commonly used to create fittings, pipes, valves and other materials. With its long history of durability and resistance to damage, PVC has long been an attractive material for residential and commercial projects alike.
CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is the same material as PVC but with an added chemical reaction that increases its chlorine content. This makes CPVC pipes much more heat resistant, making it the perfect choice for hot water applications that may exceed PVC’s 140 degree Fahrenheit safety limit.
Before selecting a material, it’s essential to take into account both your needs and budget. Once these have been established, you can make an informed decision regarding which type of pipe to purchase.
The chemical composition of a pipe can influence how it is welded together. Depending on the material, you may require different primers and solvents for your weld since plastic needs to be softened by the primer before bonding with cement used to join joints.
Chemical welding consists of two components: a solvent primer that softens the inner surface of the union and pipe, then solvent glue that melts them together for strength. You should use cement appropriate for the material being joined so that both elements can chemically soften at once.
When performing a chemical weld, be sure to consult the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding which type of cement to use on your project. Doing so can significantly enhance the strength and durability of your weld.
Durability
When selecting a pipe material, durability should be one of the primary factors to take into account. Whether you are building a new home or renovating an existing building, selecting an effective material that can withstand regular usage is essential. Making the right choice will help you avoid unexpected problems that could cost time, money and headaches in the future.
PVC is an incredibly versatile material, suitable for many purposes. Its thermoplastic properties make it the ideal insulation material for pipes and fittings, helping reduce condensation and maintain water temperature effectively.
PVC pipe is a widely used material in irrigation, drainage of soil and waste from buildings, conduits for electrical wires and industrial chemical transportation. Although not as strong as copper, PVC can still withstand general usage and maintenance without issue.
When selecting a pipe material, heat resistance should be taken into account. While both PVC and CPVC can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, CPVC offers much greater durability and longevity than its PVC counterpart.
CPVC pipe is also resistant to chlorine, an important benefit for water treatment and distribution companies. The chlorine molecules in CPVC block chlorine and chloramine molecules from attacking the pipe, protecting it from degradation and extending its lifespan.
Though more expensive than PVC, CPVC is the preferred material for builders and contractors who need to transport or store a great deal of liquids or chemicals. Furthermore, it has greater resistance against various acids and alkalis.
Both CPVC and PVC have a similar appearance on the outside, but there are subtle distinctions that can help you decide which material is best suited for your project. Consider both pipe color and sizing system when purchasing pipe.
PVC pipe and fittings typically come in white or dark gray, while CPVC often features a cream color. You can also check for manufacturer printing on the pipe or fitting to confirm its correct size.
Chemical Resistance
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are two widely-used thermoplastic materials used as fittings, pipes, and system components. Both materials offer economics, weather resistance, nontoxicity – plus they come in various shapes and sizes to suit different applications.
PVC pipe is a common choice for water supply lines and hot water distribution in residential and commercial buildings, but it may not be ideal for other applications like industrial piping or chemical handling.
CPVC pipe is typically safer and more resistant to chemical leaching, particularly in hot water plumbing applications. Furthermore, it’s more flexible than cast iron pipe so it can withstand bending or twisting in various scenarios.
In addition to chemical resistance, CPVC also resists mold and mildew growth. This is an invaluable benefit for commercial construction as many municipalities require that pipe be free from mold and mildew growth in order to protect both employees and the public.
When selecting a material, temperature resistance should also be taken into consideration. CPVC pipes have excellent temperature resistance and can withstand various temperatures so they make ideal choices for outdoor or indoor applications.
Fluoropolymer plastics such as PVDF may be more costly than CPVC or PVC, but they offer superior chemical resistance and have a higher service temperature. Furthermore, these materials resist pitting and scaling – making them suitable for potable water applications.
These plastics are commonly used in piping, sheet, tubing, film and plate form. They can be homopolymer or copolymer and may include application-specific additives like pigments for UV protection.
It is essential to know the chemical that will be transported in a pipe, so you can select material with appropriate resistance. Some chemicals are incompatible with certain plastics, so always check product information for an exhaustive list of compatibility issues. Furthermore, the design and joining systems used can significantly impact chemical resistance as well.
Environmental Impact
PVC and CPVC pipe are both incredibly robust materials suitable for various projects. Each has its own advantages, so it’s essential to weigh all options before making a choice about which material best suits your needs.
Environmental impact should always be taken into account when selecting a piping material, particularly for residential water systems. Both PVC and CPVC can have negative effects on the environment, so it’s essential to comprehend their advantages and drawbacks before making an informed decision.
One of the primary environmental consequences of both PVC and CPVC is freshwater ecotoxicity, photochemical oxidation, and water depletion. While these impacts are much less with CPVC, they still exist nonetheless.
Another major concern is that PVC pipes can leak regulated chemicals into drinking water, leading to adverse health effects for homeowners and businesses alike. This issue is especially pertinent since many states require plumbers to be NSF 61 certified, meaning they must avoid leaching these chemicals into a system’s water supply.
Comparatively, CPVC pipe has greater chemical resistance and can withstand higher temperatures than PVC pipe. Plus, the added chlorine makes CPVC stronger and better equipped to handle aggressive acids.
But CPVC can also be vulnerable to ammonia and some amines, which are highly reactive with chlorine when they come in contact with CPVC.
To guarantee that a piping material is suitable for your application, consult with your local plumbing supply store and refer to their chemical compatibility charts. Doing this will enable you to make an informed decision regarding which piping material best meets both your needs and budget.
Though they differ chemically and physically, pvc and cpvc piping systems can be an excellent choice for residential plumbing applications due to their durability and cost-efficiency. Plus, it’s simple to install and maintain, providing your customers with a secure, dependable choice that won’t let you down.