Upvc vs. Pvc Pipes: What Are the Differences?

America’s plastic pipe and parts manufacturing industry is worth $21.2 billion in 2022. Industrial establishments are now recovering from the pandemic aftermath. Thus, more demand for pipe production from the industry operators.

Pipes aren’t only for industrial use but also necessary materials for your home or office. Are you considering installing unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pipes? You’re in the right place, for we will discuss uPVC vs. PVC!

Read on to know what you need through the differences of these pipes in this PVC and uPVC pipe guide.

Application

The pipes’ applications define what PVC pipes and uPVC pipes are. Although both tubes serve the same purpose, some uses are more suitable for each.

What Are PVC Pipes Used For?

PVC is a flexible material used for a wide range of pipework. Non-potable water often runs through larger PVC pipes in plumbing.

PVC is often a substitute for copper and aluminum pipes. Thus, it’s helpful in waste lines, irrigation systems, and pool circulation systems. Moreover, PVC pipes are good insulators of electrical cables.

What Are uPVC Pipes Used For?

For some heavy-duty plumbing and draining, uPVC is a good alternative for cast iron. The majority of plastic pipes in the world are of uPVC, which is very resistant to chemical erosion. Also, it has smoother inner walls that aid in water flow.

uPVC also works well at a variety of temperatures and operating pressures. The robust and rigid uPVC pipes make excellent sewage and external drainage systems.

You are most likely wondering where best to get these pipes. LESSO Water Supply Pipe offers high-quality pipes and pipe fittings.

Durability

Plasticizers’ phthalates and BPA makes PVC pipes more flexible than uPVC pipes. uPVC, known as rigid plastic pipes, don’t contain these extra plasticizing elements.

PVC is less durable than uPVC because of its softer and more flexible design. Although, both are resistant to sunlight, oxidation, and a wide range of chemicals.

Installation

PVC and uPVC pipes installation process is almost the same. Because these are plastics, the pipes are easy to cut that a hacksaw will do, and you won’t need other power tools. Given the different material content, the connecting solvent for these may differ.

Cost

Many PVC and uPVC goods are inexpensive to produce. That’s why they are common in such a wide range of low-cost items.

You can buy PVC pipes for the length or by weight. The more expensive the piping is, the thicker it is.

Disposal

PVC and uPVC are not biodegradable, but uPVC is more recyclable. You can reform it into new goods or pipes at extreme temperatures. Unlike uPVC, only 1% of PVC is recyclable.

Safety and Risks

In a fire, PVC-coated wires can produce harmful HCl vapors. Plasticizers from PVC may seep into the environment.

PVC’s flexibility is because of phthalates. Today, several phthalates in PVC became less as safer options are now available. Prohibited or restricted phthalates include dibutyl, benzyl butyl, and DEHP.

There have been no widespread concerns about using uPVC, free of phthalates and BPA.

Understand uPVC vs. PVC

PVC and uPVC are both essential in an establishment’s waterworks. Understanding the differences will provide an informed decision about which fits your needs. This article covered uPVC vs. PVC to illustrate the advantage over the other.

Do you need more uPVC and PVC pipe guides? Read from us to find out more. You can also explore technology, business, health, travel, and many more.