Understanding the Term CPVC
Everyone has come across CPVC pipes while on an expedition or building their ideal home, but they may not fully grasp what they are. Understanding PVC is helpful before addressing CPVC. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a robust man-made material with many applications. Stabilizers are incorporated into the production process to help the plastic withstand oxidation and breakdown.
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride is known as “CPVC”. If it sounds redundant, it’s because the plastic is further chlorinated, and its chemical makeup is altered during production. This makes CPVC more durable and resistant to deterioration without requiring a deep understanding of chemistry. PVC and CPVC are both widely used materials for plumbing pipes. However, they are not entirely interchangeable. Both CPVC and PVC are polymers. However, CPVC is stronger and lasts longer. While it’s true that the names and even the appearance of the two products are identical, CPVC and PVC differ significantly in a number of important ways. CPVC is significantly more resistant to corrosion and deterioration than PVC due to its chemical composition, but it is also better suited for applications requiring greater temperatures. One hundred forty degrees is the highest operating temperature for PVC. At that point, the plastic begins to soften and lose its shape, which might cause leaks. However, CPVC can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees before it starts to weaken. CPVC and PVC respond to chemicals in different ways, as well. In addition to being better suited for chemical applications, CPVC also requires different solvents and primers for bonding. Both call for a particular kind.
Can PVC and CPVC be used together?
Although every NPS size pipe and fitting will fit together, it is not advised to mix and match different kinds of materials. The temperature and pressure ratings of the pipeline may be compromised by mixing components. Because of this, we always advise building any pressured pipe system using piping materials and schedules that are compatible.
Advantages of CPVC pipes
CPVC is robust, flexible, and resistant to chemicals. We can safely say that CPVC is a better substance than PVC. While all materials are sturdy, impact-resistant, and slightly flexible, CPVC outperforms them all. CPVC is made to be resistant to chemicals and deterioration during the production process, which gives it a long lifespan. Due to the likelihood of chemicals and high temperatures there, it is beneficial in commercial and industrial situations.
Additionally, CPVC is more flexible than copper or cast iron pipe. Due to its flexibility, it is simple to work with and has some give when coming into contact with imperfectly positioned joints. This product’s elasticity also makes it impact-resistant, enhancing its durability even further.
Applications of CPVC
Plumbing supplies are the main application for CPVC. It costs a lot more money. Because of this, manufacturers prefer to utilize PVC for a variety of consumer goods and CPVC for plumbing purposes in settings like factories where chemical and heat resistance are important. Commercial- or industrial-grade liquid distribution pipes and the fittings that hold them together are made of CPVC.
These pipes may accomplish many of the same tasks as copper or cast iron pipes and are frequently used in their place. When necessary, CPVC can also be utilized as vent piping, but only for air temperatures below 200 degrees.
CPVC pipes come in a variety of varieties
CPVC is not a universally applicable product. It is offered in pipes with various diameters, however, those diameters can change. PVC is offered in nominal sizes, or NPS (nominal pipe size). Copper tube diameters and nominal widths are both available for CPVC (CTS). The pipe’s internal diameter is described by NPS, and the pipe’s external diameter is described by CTS. Additionally, CPVC is offered in Schedule 40 and Schedule 80, which designate the pipe’s wall thickness. Although they are equally resistant to chemicals and heat, Schedule 40 is thinner than Schedule 80, giving it somewhat less strength but a little more flexibility. Additionally, CPVC is offered in three colors: off-white, light grey, or yellow.
CPVC isn’t just used in commercial and industrial contexts
CPVC pipes are not just used in manufacturing and commercial structures. CPVC is an excellent option for home plumbing applications since it performs admirably as a potable water distribution pipe.
Although there aren’t many rules that demand CPVC, it’s a great material for residential settings because of how long-lasting and sturdy it is. The cost is the only deterrent to using it. Sometimes, CPVC costs six times as much as PVC. Because of this, many plumbers and do-it-yourselfers only use it for the pipes that distribute hot water, leaving PVC piping to handle the cold water. Most plumbing codes recognize both types.
Online sources:
What is CPVC Pipe?
By Antonino Cantone
Available at:
https://www.flowguard.com/blog/cpvc-pipes
What’s the Difference Between PVC and CPVC Pipe
by Korey
August 15, 2017
Available at: https://www.commercial-industrial-supply.com/resource-center/whats-the-difference-between-pvc-and-cpvc-pipe/
Ashirvad FlowGuard-Plus® CPVC
Available at: https://www.ashirvad.com/solution/cpvc-pipes-fittings/
Solved! What is CPVC and What is it Used For?
By Tom Scalisi
Published May 28, 2021
Available at: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/what-is-cpvc/
