CPVC Or PVC – The Optimum Hot Water Pipeline

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is one of the common forms of plastic pipelines used for water supply and has several applications in the plumbing industry. PVC pipes are widely used in drainage systems for homes, businesses, swimming pools and spas. PVC pipes are divided into two categories. The most widely used PVC pipes for water systems are schedules 40 and 80. However, it is not suggested to use PVC pipelines for hot water.

One of the primary reasons why PVC pipes are not used in hot water pipelines is their chlorine proportion. Since PVC contains 57 percent chlorine, it is often used to distribute cold water and is not the ideal pipe for hot water systems. Since PVC pipes have a low chlorine proportion, they will start to deteriorate and decompose when heated gradually. Furthermore, PVC pipes will bend, bloat, and eventually break when subjected to hot water. Consequently, they are not employed to deliver hot water to basins, baths, or washing machines.

PVC pipes and fittings are advised for installations where the water temperature does not exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius) or for cold water distribution. Therefore PVC pipes are not an ideal choice for hot water distribution systems.

CPVC – The Optimum PVC Water Pipe for Hot Water

Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, often called CPVC, is a thermoplastic chlorinated more thoroughly (67 percent chlorine) than PVC pipes, adding durability and a higher maximum working temperature. CPVC pipelines can retain temperatures up to 200 °F (93 degrees Celsius).

Due to their operating temperature, the CPVC pipes can be utilised for domestic, commercial, and industrial purposes and are suited for both cold and hot water lines. CPVC is the optimum polymer pipe for hot water supply. However, if it freezes, it splits.

For several reasons, CPVC pipes have replaced copper as the optimum hot and cold pipes for practically all purposes. Compared to copper plumbing systems, CPVC pipes have a smooth inside, reducing water noise. Because CPVC is highly insulated, energy loss in hot and cold water applications is avoided. Compared to metal pipes, CPVC pipes are far more adaptable and fireproof.

Other Benefits of CPVC Pipes

The following are some of the other benefits of CPVC that make it perfect for pipework:

Safe and Clean: CPVC pipes do not induce toxic or dangerous substances into the water, which is why they are so frequently used to convey potable water. Chlorine or chlorine-based disinfectants are frequently added to the water to prevent it from contamination. This chlorine does not affect the CPVC pipes.

Prevents Corrosion: Corrosion is a constant and prevalent issue with metal pipes. Since CPVC pipelines and fittings resist interior and exterior corrosion, water leaks and water flow limits are less likely to occur in pipes. The ideal materials for conveying potable water are made of CPVC because of their corrosion resistance. Unlike metal pipes, CPVC pipes do not tarnish or let hazardous substances into the water.

Maximum flow rate: High-level minerals frequently accumulate on the surfaces when using metal pipes for plumbing. As a result, the pressure decreases, resulting in decreased water flow rate. The smooth inner surface of CPVC pipes prevents scaling. Thus, the problem of scaling can be solved if the pipes have a smoother inner surface that prevents accumulation of minerals.

Robust Strength: Solvent cement is used to install CPVC pipes and fittings because it chemically fuses the pipework at the molecular scale, giving incredibly reliable connections. As long as the joints are put correctly, CPVC pipes are sturdy and long-lasting for years.

Additional safety: CPVC pipes are not only economical to install, but they are also risk-free to use. The pipes’ outside temperatures are not excessively high. It reduces the possibility of burns for the workers handling the pipes. Furthermore, combustion cannot occur inside CPVC pipes. In the event of a fire, CPVC pipelines will stop burning if the source of the fire is extinguished. It also causes less harm to property.

The improved performance and durability offered by CPVC or PVC pipe manufacturers make them the best decision for domestic, business and industrial plumbing operations. They are the perfect match for hot water pipelines, formerly served by metal tubes, due to their better quality.