Types of PVC Pipes | Schedule 40 Vs Schedule 80 (2023)

FAQs

Which is better schedule 40 or 80 PVC? ›

Schedule 40 PVC pipe works best for low water pressure applications. By contrast, Schedule 80 PVC is usually gray in color and has thicker walls; therefore, it can handle higher water pressures. Schedule 80 PVC is well suited for industrial and chemical applications.

The major difference between schedule 40 and schedule 80 pipe is the wall thickness, inside diameter, and their weight. Schedule 80 will have a greater wall thickness, a smaller inside diameter and a higher weight than Schedule 40 pipe at a given nominal pipe size.

What is schedule 80 PVC used for? Because schedule 80 PVC is a thicker pipe, it is usually is used for applications that are commercial or industrial in nature. These more demanding applications generally require piping that will stand up to high pressures and harsh environments.

40 PVC is okay underground (18 inches down in a residential yard), but 80 is needed for the section that comes above ground. An exception is if you use the Water-tite continuous flexible conduit because they don't make that in 80.

The only time schedule 80 PVC conduit would be required is when the service cable is exposed to physical damage. The AHJ needs to determine if the cables are exposed to physical damage since there is not a definition of physical damage in the code.

Thicker is always better - Myth

Schedule 40 pressure fittings are used in applications such as potable water, irrigation, golf course construction, and pool & spa. Even though it is possible to combine schedule 80 and schedule 40 PVC together it is not recommended.

Based on National Electrical Code (NEC) 352, Schedule 40 PVC Conduit Electrical Pipe is generally for electrical applications in walls, floors, and ceilings. Sometimes, it is also used underground, either in those areas exposed to sunlight or not.

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.

Yes, you can use sch80. Its wall thickness and pressure rating are greater than sch40, but the outside diameter is the same for both. This must be taken into consideration because the thinner wall sch40 has a greater flow capacity due to its larger inside diameter.

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.

These pipes are also known as schedule 40 PVC and you may notice the most drastic decrease in impact resistance with them. For outdoor use, consider schedule 80 PVC, which is more durable and less prone to breakage when exposed to UV rays for an extended period.

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).

Schedule 40 steel pipe is the most commonly used pipe schedule. It can be galvanized — although it doesn't have to be — and is usually used in water and gas lines. It may also appear in places that need ornamentation or support. It makes a great pipe due to its versatility and performance strength.

He uses thick “schedule 40” plastic (PVC or ABS) parts that are “welded” together with solvent cement for sink drain plumbing. An assembly like this will last forever, no matter how times you bash it with the wastebasket. Be sure to install a union trap and a rubber coupler so you can open the trap to clear clogs.

Polyethylene Pipe

It is durable and provides long-term resistance to environmental conditions in outdoor and underground uses.

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.

For Schedule 80 PVC pipe and fittings, you should always use the heavy body cement due to the increased wall thickness.

Physical damage — PVC conduit isn't permitted to be installed if subject to physical damage, unless identified for the application (Figure). Schedule 40 PVC conduit is not identified for use where subject to physical damage. PVC Schedule 80 conduit is identified for use in areas subject to physical damage [Sec.

PVC conduit shall not be used under the conditions specified below: (A) Hazardous (Classified) Locations. In hazardous (classified) locations, except as permitted by other articles of this Code. (B) Support of Luminaires (Fixtures).

Which PVC pipe is best for electrical wiring? ›

Plasto conduit pipes are quoted as the best PVC electrical conduit pipe in India. Talking about the quality, Plasto is known for being the best conduit pipe manufacturer.

Because PVC is immune to corrosion, a minimum service life of at least 100 years can be expected.

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.

It will degrade when exposed to UV light (such as sunlight), and also high temperature. Its pressure rating is to be derated at high temperatures. Because of this, PVC is not approved for use in houses for potable water.

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.

Copper pipes are popular for both hot and cold water pipes because they are heat resistant, resist corrosion, and have natural anti-microbial properties. They are more expensive than plastic pipe options.

Because of its makeup, CPVC is immune to damage from highly chlorinated domestic water and has a higher temperature tolerance than PVC. Chlorine-based disinfection is used by water companies to kill disease-causing bacteria before water enters your home.

PVC-U is the most common PVC type for pipes and fittings including transportation of drinking water, soil and waste, sewage and underground drainage and industrial applications. Pipes and fittings made of PVC-U have many benefits.

PVC pipes are the most well-known plastic pipe, but it has some major drawbacks. If that pipe transports water as hot as 140 *F, it can warp and break down. You should avoid using PVC pipes for your main drinking water.

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.

Can Schedule 80 PVC be exposed to sunlight? ›

However the, PVC pipe industry has found no evidence of tapping failures due to UV discoloration. Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 listed electrical conduit that has been tested for sunlight resistance according to UL651 requirements is approved for continuous outdoor exposed use.

CPVC plastic pipes are your best bet when installing water pipes for internal and external (exposed to sunlight) household applications.

Avoid freezing pipes

According to 'The Department of the Environment', they recommend that pipes should be buried at least 600mm (two feet) underground. At this depth, the soil acts as a natural insulator and prevents them freezing.

2. Water service piping that is installed exterior to a building and underground must be buried at least 12 inches (305 mm) below grade or 6 inches (152 mm) below the established frost penetration depth for the geographic area [see Commentary Figure 305.4(5)], whichever is the greater depth.

Copper water tubing has an outstanding history of corrosion resistance in most underground environments.

The Water Research Foundation reported that 100 years is a conservative estimate for a properly designed and installed PVC pipe.

The most used pipe schedule is SCH 40. For NPS 12 or smaller pipes or pipes with outer diameter of around 12 inches, SCH 40 is the same wall thickness of the previously used value. The SCH 80 wall thickness, on the other hand, is the same as the previously used XS wall thickness for pipe sizes up to NPS 10.

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.

1. PVC Pipes. PVC is a plumbing pipe known for its versatility, lightweight, and blockage resistance. PVC piping is generally used as part of a sink, toilet, or shower drain line, though it's sometimes used as a home's main water supply pipe.

What is the best pipe for kitchen sink? ›

Polyvinyl chloride pipes (PVC) are commonly used as part of a sink, toilet, or shower drain line. Its plastic tubing is ideal for this kind of usage because it protects the water from rust and corrosion better than other types of pipes. This capability also makes PVC pipe incredibly durable.

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.

As one of the most-used plumbing materials, PVC pipe is known for being very durable and long-lasting. In fact, PVC pipes last approximately 100 years.

Thicker is always better - Myth

Schedule 40 pressure fittings are used in applications such as potable water, irrigation, golf course construction, and pool & spa. Even though it is possible to combine schedule 80 and schedule 40 PVC together it is not recommended.

Polyethylene Pipe

Polyethylene pipes are used in a wide range of pipes for drainage, irrigation, water service and even some varieties for underground gas transport. It is durable and provides long-term resistance to environmental conditions in outdoor and underground uses.

Most schedule 40 PVC found in homes and offices is white pipe with a National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) rating for potable water.

PVC-U is the most common PVC type for pipes and fittings including transportation of drinking water, soil and waste, sewage and underground drainage and industrial applications. Pipes and fittings made of PVC-U have many benefits.

High Water Pressure

Water pressure that is greater than 80psi can cause PVC pipes to expand and crack, significantly reducing their expected useful lives.

Dig-up test results in the U.S. and around the world indicate that PVC pipe can be expected to provide reliable service in excess of 100 years. The average water main is failing at 4 7 years. Corrosion is the major cause.

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.

How deep does Schedule 40 PVC need to be buried? ›

What is the minimum depth for placing Schedule 40 PVC conduit below a concrete slab? A. If it's under a building, there is no depth requirement. If it's placed outside under a concrete slab, then the minimum cover is 4 inches [Table 300.5].

However the, PVC pipe industry has found no evidence of tapping failures due to UV discoloration. Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 listed electrical conduit that has been tested for sunlight resistance according to UL651 requirements is approved for continuous outdoor exposed use.