Even if you are fairly new at DIY projects, you already know what PVC pipes are. However, were you aware that there are numerous different types of PVC pipes?
While all of them might look the same to a novice, plastic pipes come in various forms.
Each type has a preferable purpose and is better than others at achieving a certain goal. In the further text, we’ll name all the different types of PVC pipes and explain what to use them for.
What Are All the Different Types of PVC Pipes?
Polyvinyl Chloride pipes – also known as PVC pipes – are the most common pipes for plumbing today. They are durable and able to withstand the water pressure without tearing or cracking.
Fixing PVC leak is much easier than fixing coppxer leaks, which is another reason plumbers prefer them.
There are a few differences between copper and plastic pipes.
They are sustainable and recyclable, making them more earth-friendly than pipes people make from most other materials.
As plumbers name all of them ‘plastic pipes’, most people don’t even know that different types of PVC pipes exist.
Still, even they come in various shapes and sizes, and people use multiple methods to make them.
There are four types of PVC pipes:
- Unplasticized PVC (PVC-U)
- Chlorinated PVC (C-PVC)
- Molecular oriented PVC (PVC-O)
- High Impact PVC (PVC-Hi)
While all types share many features, including durability, safety, recyclability, and sustainability, they are different in various ways.
Each type has its own advantages, and each is better for a certain application.
Unplasticized PVC
PVC-U is a pipe created without a plasticizer. According toChemistryViews, a plasticizer is a substance, typically phthalates, manufacturers add to the material to make it flexible and softer.
In other words, plasticizer increases plasticity, decreases viscosity, or decreases friction. A PVC-U pipe is also commonly known as rigid PVC.
Unplasticized PVC is usually used for:
- Pipes and fittings
- Drinking water, waste, and soil transportation.
- Sewage
- Industrial drainage
- Industrial applications
There are many benefits to using fittings and pipes made from unplasticized PVC. First and foremost, they are lightweight, affordable, and easy to handle.
This makes them a perfect choice for drinking water transportation. They have a high mechanical performance, high chemical resistance, and resistance to UV exposure.
This makes them rather durable. Another great side of unplasticized PVC is that it is fully recyclable. Because of this, they are considered the most environmentally-friendly pipes for sewage.
Chlorinated PVC
Chlorinated PVC, or C-PVC pipes, are pipes with higher chlorine content. They are made by chlorination of PVC resin.
Manufacturers introduced them to the water distribution systems in the 1960s, but their manufacturing process did change a bit.
There are many additives in chlorinated PVC, such as pigments, lubricants, stabilizers, and impact modifiers.
C-PVC pipes have many advantages to unplasticized PVC pipes. Due to this, they are a popular choice for:
- Pipes and fittings
- Drinking water transportation
- Carrying water with a wider range of temperatures
- Handling of industrial liquids
Just like unplasticized PVC pipes, chlorinated PVC pipes are highly resistant to corrosion and safe to use for drinking water. Also, both are durable due to their great impact resistance.
The biggest difference is that chlorinated PVC pipes are resistant to a wide range of temperatures. This makes them a great choice for sewer systems in both residential areas and commercial construction.
They are also much more flexible compared to U-PVC, as they contain plasticizers. While C-PVC is more ductile compared to PVC-U, both are entirely recyclable.
Due to these features, they are praised by environmentalists all over the globe.
Does the chlorination of PVC affect the quality of drinking water?
While chlorine can affect the odor and taste of water, it won’t ruin its quality. On the contrary, chlorinating water is a common way of providing safe tap water.
Because of this, chlorine from C-PVC pipes won’t, in any way, ruin the safety of drinking water. Simultaneously, chlorine from the drinking water won’t damage or change the properties of a PVC pipe.
Because of this, using chlorinated PVC pipes is perfectly safe for drinking water transportation. [1]
Molecularly Oriented PVC
One of the many different types of PVC pipes is PVC-O or molecularly oriented PVC.
Manufactures produce molecularly oriented PVC by turning the amorphous PVC-U structure into a much more layered form. This makes it an enhanced version of unplasticized PVC.
People usually use Molecularly oriented PVC pipes for:
- Pipes and fittings where strong pressure is expected
- Sewer systems in unstable grounds
- Irrigation pipes
- Sewer pumping mains
Compared to U-PVC, molecularly oriented PVC pipes have a higher resistance to corrosion, recyclability, water quality preservation, and cost-efficiency.
If you happen to reside in an area where pipes are commonly exposed to pressure, you might want to consider using them.
They provide an excellent balance between stiffness, flexibility, and strength.
Molecularly Oriented PVC pipes have a great hydraulic capacity, resistance to cracks, and ductility. This makes them very long-lasting and resistant to fatigue and impact.
Simultaneously, they are 100% recyclable, which is very important to numerous homeowners and professionals.
High Impact PVC
High impact PVC, or PVC-Hi, is the newest type of PVC pipes. Manufacturers make them by inserting various chemicals into PVC-U, increasing their resistance to impact.
While standard PVC has many advantages, it had limited usages as it wasn’t stable enough. To solve this problem, professionals alloyed PVC with polycarbonate.
This formed an alloy composition with high dimensional stability, especially when exposed to heat or pressure.
In the end, this created a strong thermoplastic resin composition with high-impact strength and thermal distortion resistance.
This composition usually includes polycarbonate and an alloy of a vinyl chloride resin. Other material combination consists of ethylene-vinyl acetate and butadiene-modified acrylic. Both variations proved to be very rigid.
PVC-Hi is used on occasions when standard PVC wouldn’t handle the pressure or the extreme temperatures.
Because of this, it’s commonly used for industrial liquids or in commercial sewage systems. It’s also a decent choice if you’re planning on connecting 2 pipes, as it won’t get damaged during the cutting.
What Are Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC Pipes?
Another way you can sort different types of PVC pipes is on schedule 40 and schedule 80. Unlike previous types, these two can be differentiated just by looking at them.
Schedule 40 PVC pipes are typically white, while schedule 80 are dark grey. However, there is more to it. We’ll explain below.
Difference in strength
The main and most important difference between these two pipe types is their thickness. Schedule 80 pipes are stronger and thicker, as they are designed to withstand higher pressures.
It is used when you need to transport water or liquid under higher pressure. At the same time, it’s more commonly used in situations where people expect a lot of external pressure.
Despite this, schedule 40 PVC pipes are the ones you commonly see in properties. The white line that provides drainage in buildings, that’s the schedule 40 PVC pipe.
You can easily find it in most hardware stores. These pipes are used for:
- Drinking water delivery
- Drainage
- Irrigation
- Coldwater systems
These PVC pipes are rigid, strong, and they can handle pressure very well. Depending on their material, they can deal with various temperatures, hot and cold.
However, if you need to set up a pipe where you expect high-pressure levels, you should use a schedule 80.
Typically, all different types of PVC pipes and fittings have a maximum pressure level written on their packaging or bodies.
While the exact amount of pressure they can handle depends on the pipe’s size, schedule 80 is always more durable.
Say you have a schedule 40 and schedule 80 pipes of the same size. Schedule 80 will handle a significantly larger amount of pressure than schedule 40 one.
The difference in inside diameter
Imagine if both schedule 40 and schedule 80 PVC pipes were of the same color. It would be impossible to tell the difference just by looking at them.
This is because both types have the same outside diameter. However, if you were cutting PVC pipe, you would notice another difference. That is the inside diameter of the pipe.
While they seem equally thick, schedule 40 pipes have a significantly larger inside diameter than schedule 80 ones. This is because schedule 80 pipes have thicker walls.
Thick walls make them stronger and more rigid compared to schedule 40 ones. This does have a downside. The water flow is much more restricted in a schedule 80 pipe compared to a schedule 40 one.
Difference in weight
As we’ve already established that schedule 80 pipes are thicker than schedule 40 pipes, the next difference is logical. Schedule 80 pipes are much heavier than schedule 40 pipes.
This can limit your options on where you want to install it. At the same time, schedule 80 pipes can be more expensive to ship or deliver to your property.
These are additional expenses that you need to consider when buying PVC pipes.
Difference in price
Schedule 40 price is always less expensive than a schedule 80 pipe of the same outside diameter. This is because it takes more material to make a schedule 80 PVC.
More used materials will always mean a higher price.
Are there any other schedules of PVC pipes?
While schedule 40 and schedule 80 pipes are more common, there is also a schedule 20 and schedule 120 PVC pipe. Schedule 20 pipes are thinner than schedule 40 pipes.
Because of that, they are rarely used for plumbing. The only option where you can use them is if there isn’t any traffic crossing over the area.
They are much more fragile, and they can crack easily.
On the other hand, schedule 120 PVC pipes are the most robust of all. People commonly use them in construction areas when there is a lot of expected pressure.
You can’t find them in most stores, so professionals rarely use them.
Both of these pipes are in different shades of grey compared to schedule 80 ones. This makes them easy to differentiate.
Read Also: How Long Copper Pipes Last
What Type of PVC Pipe Should You Use?
Now that you know there are different types of PVC pipes, you probably wonder which one you should use. This is entirely up to your project and the situation your property is in. Take note that we don’t recommend using polybutylene pipes.
If you live in an area with a lot of traffic, we would recommend using a schedule 80 PVC-Hi pipe. On the other hand, if you live in a neighborhood without a lot of pressure, such thick pipes aren’t necessary.
It would be enough if you’d used a schedule 40 PVC-U pipe for your sewage system.
Of course, you should discuss all of this with a licensed professional in your area. This is the best way to determine which type of PVC pipe works best for you and your property.
However, we hope this article provided you with insight into different types of PVC pipes.
FAQs
What are the 4 types of PVC? ›
PVC pipes are generally categorised into four: PVC-U unplasticised PVC), C-PVC (chlorinated PVC), PVC-O (molecular oriented PVC) and modified PVC. Besides sharing many of the same properties, each type of PVC has its own advantages for different applications.
What is 4 PVC pipe used for? ›A 4-inch Schedule 40 PVC pipe is a pipe that has a diameter of 4 inches. It is typically used for carrying water, gas, and other fluids. It is also used in plumbing applications. 4-inch Schedule 40 PVC pipes are some of the most commonly used pipes in the world.
What are the 4 types of plumbing? ›...
- PVC Pipes. ...
- PEX Pipes. ...
- ABS Pipes. ...
- Copper Pipes. ...
- Cast Iron and Galvanized Steel Pipes.
It is used in various industries like building, electronics, electrical, automotive, medical and packaging. PVC fabric is used in the manufacture of aprons shower curtains, raincoats, jackets and sports bags. It is used in the garden hose and imitation leather upholstery.
Can Schedule 40 PVC be used for sewer? ›Schedule 40 is ideal for above-ground vent lines and sewer lines in homes and has a thinner wall thickness than schedules 120 and 80.
What is Schedule 80 PVC pipe used for? ›Schedule 80 pipes have a thick wall and are used for high pressure operations in a commercial and industrial setting. Schedule 40 pipes have thinner walls and are intended mostly for residential settings.
What is 6 PVC pipe used for? ›This industry standard size pipe fits with 6" nominal size PVC fittings and valves. PVC pipe is used in everything from drainage to plumbing and craft projects. PVC is a relatively lightweight and cost effect piping material that is easy to install with PVC solvent cement.
What type of PVC is used for sewer? ›PVC 2729 sewer pipe is highly resistant to chemicals commonly found in sewage and industrial waste and has a smooth internal surface for minimum flow resistance. It is available as a solid wall or perforated wall pipe. Perforated PVC 2729 sewer pipe is commonly used in leach fields and French drain applications.
Can I use white PVC for sewer? ›PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is a white or light-colored plastic pipe that is most commonly used for plumbing and drainage. Like ABS, it is often used in DWV (drain-waste-vent) or sewerage systems to remove waste from a home or business.
Which PVC pipe is best for water supply? ›Standard PVC pipes are used for drainage only, while CPVC can be used for domestic water needs.
What type of pipe to use for main water line? ›
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe PVC pipes are widely used in new water main connections. However, PVC is one of the oldest synthetic material in use for many other applications. PVC is thermoplastic and can be softened and molded. This means that PVC pipes are ideal for trenchless construction and installation.
What is CPVC pipe used for? ›CPVC (chlorinated poly (vinyl chloride) is a strong and rigid thermoplastic material that is used for hot and cold potable water applications in residential construction. Because of its makeup, CPVC is immune to damage from highly chlorinated domestic water and has a higher temperature tolerance than PVC.
What are the five uses of PVC? ›PVC is a versatile material that offers many possible applications, these include; window frames, drainage pipe, water service pipe, medical devices, blood storage bags, cable and wire insulation, resilient flooring, roofing membranes, stationary, automotive interiors and seat coverings, fashion and footwear, packaging ...
What is PVC most commonly used for? ›Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC or Vinyl) is an economical and versatile thermoplastic polymer widely used in the building and construction industry to produce door and window profiles, pipes (drinking and wastewater), wire and cable insulation, medical devices, etc.
What is PVC mostly used for? ›Economical, versatile polyvinyl chloride (PVC, or vinyl) is used in a variety of applications in the building and construction, health care, electronics, automobile and other sectors, in products ranging from piping and siding, blood bags and tubing, to wire and cable insulation, windshield system components and more.
Is GREY PVC the same as white PVC? ›PVC pipe that is used for plumbing is usually white while electrical conduit PVC is usually gray. These are the standard colors, but you can find PVC that has had chemical additives added during the manufacturing process to create different colored pipes.
What is Schedule 20 PVC pipe used for? ›Schedule 20 sewer and drain pipe is the most common pipe used for the drainage and storm water applications.
Can you run hot water through Schedule 40 PVC? ›The short answer: No. Explanation: PVC is a thermoplastic, and therefore, at some point it will begin to degrade and break down as it's heated up. It just so happens that Schedule 40 PVC's maximum operating temperature is 140 degrees Fahrenheit, around the same temperature that hot water gets to in most homes.
Do I need Schedule 40 or 80 PVC? ›Each one has its benefits in different applications. Schedule 40 pipe has thinner walls, so it is best for applications involving relatively low water pressure. Schedule 80 pipe has thicker walls and is able to withstand higher PSI (pounds per square inch). This makes it ideal for industrial and chemical applications.
What is Schedule 120 PVC pipe used for? ›Linear Weight Density (Wt. / Ft.) Schedule 120 pipes are one of the thickest pipes on the market. With their density, they're routinely used for non-corrosive or general corrosive projects with less reactive ingredients.
What is Schedule 40 PVC used for? ›
You are probably most familiar with schedule 40 PVC pipe. It's the white pipe you see used for drainage around buildings, and it can be found in local hardware stores. This pipe is best suited for drainage, irrigation, and other cold water systems.
What size PVC is used for sewer line? ›The most common PVC pipe sizes are 1½ inches (used as drain pipes for kitchen sinks, bathroom vanity, and tubs), 2 inches (used as drain pipes for washing machines and shower stalls), 3 inches (used in piping toilets), and 4 inches (used to connect homes to sewer system).
Is there a 7 PVC pipe? ›7" PVC Duct Pipe 1033-PP-07
PVC duct pipe like our 7" extruded duct is used more and more for industrial and institutional applications that require handling corrosive fumes, exhaust or drainage. It can handle most acids, bases, salts, oxidants and more! Std Length: 10 or 20 ft.
Limitations of PVC pipes
It's made of vinyl chloride and organotin compounds which can cause negative health reactions and are carcinogenic. Chemicals usually stay locked inside the pipe material but can leach into your water supply. In fact, drinking water from a PVC pipe may have a plastic taste to it.
Types of Pipes:
Type A — for use in ventilation pipe work and rain water and rain water harvesting applications. Type B — for use in soil and waste discharge systems.
PVC orange pipes and fittings are widely used for transporting water from potable and non-potable water. Most of the time, there are general concerns when it comes to wastewater pipelines and one of them is blockages. But PVC orange pipes have a smooth surface compared to metal, copper, and clay/concrete pipe.
Can Schedule 80 PVC be buried? ›Schedule 40 PVC and schedule 80 PVC rigid conduit is ideal for underground applications using concrete-encased or direct burial installation, as well as exposed or concealed above-ground applications.
What is black sewer pipe called? ›ABS Pipes
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) piping is a type of plastic piping that's similar to PVC and distinguishable by its black color. Known for its long lifespan, ABS is used only for drain and waste piping.
The only connection that refused to come apart was the ABS to ABS; the plastic would probably rip apart before that connection would fail. Again, an ABS to PVC glued connection isn't technically correct, but this connection is highly unlikely to fail.
What is the best pipe for outdoor drainage? ›PVC, or Polyvinyl Chloride pipes, is the best option for underground water drainage. PVC pipes are designed to withstand pressure and are highly durable. Moreover, they are malleable and come in several different sizes. PVC drainage pipes are also very eco-friendly, which makes them a popular choice among homeowners.
Which PVC pipe is stronger than Schedule 40? ›
Due to the thicker walls, schedule 80 PVC is not only able to handle higher PSI, it is also more resistant to bending and breaking than schedule 40 PVC.
What plumbing pipes last the longest? ›Drainage pipes are often made of cast iron or polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Cast iron will last anywhere from 75-100 years while PVC wins the award for longest-lasting pipe material with an indefinite lifespan.
What pipe to use from well to house? ›High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE, often just "PE") has become one of the most popular choices for underground service lines, thanks to its corrosion-resistance, durability, and competitive price. Some codes require that buried plastic lines under 2" in diameter be PE (rather than PVC).
What is the best pipe for well water? ›Poly pipe is fast becoming the most common and efficient way to install a submersible well pump, and knowing about poly pipe sizes is important. With most well depths up to 350′ the 160psi HDPE Black Poly Pipe shown below in green is the top choice for well pumps and solar well pumps.
Can you use PVC for gas line? ›PVC pipes will work well for natural gas lines and water supply. They are generally available in sizes of 10 feet and 20 feet and come in varying diameters. The size ranges from ½ inch to 6 inches to choose one depending upon the purpose.
What is HDPE pipe used for? ›HDPE piping is mainly used for conveying fluid as well gas at low temperatures. This includes hazardous wastes, slurry, and also stormwater. This is why HDPE has a distinguished and long service history in the oil, mining, gas, and water industries, among others.
What is ABS pipe used for? ›Applications of ABS Piping
It's often the choice of plumbers for use in drain, waste, and vent piping systems. You'll also find that ABS pipe is frequently used in sewer systems for drainage and as electrical insulation.
Both come in Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 thickness. Schedule 40 PVC also comes in Class 125 fittings. PVC is available in 10 ft and 20 ft lengths. CPVC is available in 10 ft and 20 ft lengths.
What are the different types of PVC materials? ›There are three broad classifications for rigid PVC compounds: Type I, Type II, and CPVC. Type II and CPVC offer better heat and chemical resistance as well as greater impact resistance. These materials are considered “unplasticized” (rigid) because they are less flexible than the plasticized formulations.
What is PVC and its types? ›The Base Forms and Functions of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
PVC is produced in two general forms: a rigid or unplasticized polymer (RPVC or uPVC), and the second as a flexible plastic. In its base form, PVC is characterized by its rigid yet brittle structure.
Is vinyl the same as PVC? ›
Vinyl is commonly used as a shorthand name for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic as used in a range of products from flooring to siding to wall covering. Most commonly, when a product is referred to as “vinyl,” it is comprised primarily of PVC.
What is the most commonly used joint for PVC? ›The most common joining system for PVC pipe uses an elastomeric seal (gasket). The PVC Pipe Association (PVCPA) estimates that more than 500 million gaskets are currently in use in PVC pipe in North America.
What is PVC used for in electrical? ›PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) is widely used in electrical cable construction for insulation, bedding and sheathing. It was the 1950s when PVC started to replace rubber insulated and sheathed cables in general household wiring due to its ease of processing.
What's the difference between Schedule 40 PVC and regular PVC? ›Both schedule 40 and 80 PVC are used widely around the world. Each one has its benefits in different applications. Schedule 40 pipe has thinner walls, so it is best for applications involving relatively low water pressure. Schedule 80 pipe has thicker walls and is able to withstand higher PSI (pounds per square inch).
How many types of PVC are there? ›There are three broad classifications for rigid PVC compounds: Type I, Type II, and CPVC. Type II and CPVC offer better heat and chemical resistance as well as greater impact resistance. These materials are considered “unplasticized” (rigid) because they are less flexible than the plasticized formulations.
What is the strongest type of PVC? ›Schedule 40 PVC pipe is strong, rigid, and can handle pressure applications. For jobs that require a higher pressurization though, schedule 80 pipe is better suited. Most PVC pipe and fittings have a maximum pressure rating listed so you know what it can handle.
What is Schedule 30 PVC pipe used for? ›PVC Schedule 30 Thin Wall Pipe is for non-pressure systems where temperatures will not exceed 140° F. It is lightweight, non-toxic and is commonly used in drainage applications such as residential gutter run off and DWV.
What can you use Schedule 40 PVC for? ›Schedule 40 PVC Conduit electrical pipe is used for electrical wiring in walls, floors and ceilings in accordance with NEC 352. According to NEC 352 it can also be buried directly into the earth, encased in concrete, and used in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
What is Schedule 200 PVC pipe used for? ›PVC Class 200, 160 and 125 pressure pipe are used in rural water systems, agricultural and turf irrigation and as sewer force mains. Class 200, 160 and 125 pipe conform to steel pipe O.D.'s. The pressure rating of the pipe—200 psi, 160 psi or 125 psi—indicates the maximum allowable sustained pressure per ASTM D2241.
What is Type 1 PVC used for? ›PVC Type I is a widely used material with excellent corrosion and chemical resistance. Top applications for PVC Type I include corrosive-resistant valves and fittings, chemical processing equipment, pool components, laboratory equipment, and many other components used in potentially corrosive environments.
What is 3 PVC used for? ›
A 3-inch pipe is what's used in homes to pipe toilets. The 4-inch pipe is used as the building drain under floors or in crawlspaces to transport all the wastewater from a home out to the septic tank or sewer.
Which PVC pipe is best for plumbing? ›PEX. PEX piping is a flexible plastic piping that has become a popular selection in residential and small business applications. Although slightly higher initial cost, its minimal maintenance, and fast installation process make it the best pipe for water distribution inside a building.
What is class B pipe used for? ›What Is a Type B-Vent Pipe? Also known as type B-vent pipe, this HVAC pipe is used for venting any appliances using natural gas or liquid propane with a vent hood attached.
What is blue PVC pipe used for? ›Blue pipes are used for potable or drinking water. Green pipes are sewer and drain lines. Lavender or purple pipes carry reclaimed wastewater that undergoes filtration and disinfection treatment before being reused for irrigation.
Why is it called Schedule 40 pipe? ›Schedule 40 pipe refers to the nominal wall thickness, not the grade. Therefore, the chemical composition of a pipe schedule is not necessarily uniform. However, schedule 40 pipe is made from low-carbon steel, usually grade A53 steel pipe.
What PSI is Schedule 40 PVC rated for? ›For example, a 2” schedule 40 PVC pipe has a . 154” minimum wall and can handle up to 280 PSI. A 2” schedule 80 PVC pipe has a . 218” minimum wall and can handle up to 400 PSI.
Is black PVC stronger than white PVC? ›PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) is white, while ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is usually black or grey. ABS piping is typically stronger than PVC and is more resistant to thermal shock from extreme cold, but it may warp if left exposed to direct sunlight.