PVC U 1
PVC U 1
PVC U 1
Available materials
There are six thermoplastic materials in common use for pressure piping systems:
In addition, developments in raw material formulation has provided new variations of some of these materials with
specifically enhanced properties, such as flame retardency or electrical conductivity. The following pages provide
more detailed information on each material and on the range of products that are available.
PVC-U has excellent chemical resistance across its operating temperature range of 0°C to 60°C, with a broad band
of operating pressures. In addition, because of its long term strength characteristics, high stiffness and cost
effectiveness, PVC-U systems typically account for a large proportion of thermoplastic piping installations.
Consequently, PVC-U systems feature the widest range of pipe sizes, fitting configurations, valves choices and
ancillary items compared to all other thermoplastic piping materials.
PVC-U piping systems are joined by solvent cement welding, whilst transition joints can be made using flanges,
threaded connections, mechanical fittings, and compression fittings.
PVC-U piping systems are available from IPS in both inch and metric dimensions, according to BS, ASTM and ISO
standards. Systems are available in inch sizes up to 24', and metric sizes up to 630mm. Pipes, fittings and valves
are available in grey, white and clear PVC-U.
Chemical resistance
PVC-U displays excellent chemical resistance to a wide variety of commonly encountered industrial chemicals,
such as acids, bases and salt solutions. Resistance to sodium hypochlorite solutions is also very good. PVC-U is
not resistant to aromatic and chlorinated hydrocarbons, solvents, esters and ketones. The chemical resistance of
PVC-U should be checked with our technical department for applications involving varnish, oils or fats, and PVC-U
is not recommended for use with compressed air or gases. For guidance on the suitability of PVC-U for your
application, consult the chemical resistance tables or our technical department.
Weathering resistance
With the use of additives such as ultraviolet absorbers, PVC-U systems display excellent weathering resistance to
the long-term effects of sunlight, wind and rain. Over time, grey PVC-U will lose some of its colour because of
exposure to UV light, and it will have slightly reduced impact strength. In extreme cases, the use of insulation or an
application of a UV absorbent coating such as AGRU Coat, or the use of a water or latex based paint will help to
minimise the effects of solar radiation. Solvent based paints should not be used on PVC-U piping. For outdoor
installations, or where the aesthetic appearance of the piping system is important, a fully matched system of
UV stabilised white PVC pipes and fittings is also available.
Electrical characteristics
PVC-U is non-conductive, therefore systems will remain free from electrolytic corrosion. Precautions should be taken
to avoid static discharge should any part of a PVC-U piping system pass through an area where explosive gases
may be present.
Physiological characteristics
PVC-U piping systems from IPS are free from lead, cadmium or other poisonous heavy metals. They are suitable for
use in contact with cold potable water, and are WRAS listed for this application.
Pressure ratings for thermoplastic pipes are determined in a water environment at a temperature of 20°C. As the
temperature of the media (and/or the piping environment) increases, the thermoplastic material becomes more
ductile, causing a decrease in the tensile strength. Because of this, the pressure rating of the system must be
reduced as the temperature rises to allow for safe operation. The application limits for PVC-U piping materials are
shown in the following diagram: