Introduction and Applications of CPVC Piping

Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) is a thermoplastic, created by the chlorination of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin, which is significantly more flexible and can withstand higher temperatures – 140°F to 210°F (due to the extra chlorine) than a standard PVC. Further, CPVC has a high resistance to a wide range of corrosive fluids and therefore, is generally found in the chemical industry.

Physical Characteristics

CPVC is generally used for hot water distribution systems, hot corrosive fluids where PVC cannot be used due to its inability to deal with high temperatures.

UV Resistance

Since CPVC goes through surface oxidation due to exposure to sunlight, the colour of the pipe changes to white and becomes more prone to impact damage. Therefore, applying a thick coating of latex paint can ensure that it is UV protected.

Heat Tracing

Electric tracing is suggested to heat trace CPVC so that a continuous elevated temperature is maintained. However, the maximum heat trace temperature must not exceed the rating of the piping system.

Pipe Support

It is recommended that the CPVC pipe does not come in direct contact with steel. Moreover, support must be provided on the valves or close to the point connected to valves. In a situation where CPVC piping is connected to vibrating equipment such as pumps, it is better to isolate using rubber expansion joints.

An ideal method of joining CPVC pipe and fittings is via solvent cementing.

Ideal Applications

Following are a few reasons why CPVC pipe and fittings are ideal for residential plumbing systems:

• Safe and Clean Water: Major international agencies, such as NSF International, test and approve materials for use in potable water applications. CPVC potable water systems are tested and approved by international agencies to be safe and not transfer harmful and dangerous products to the drinking water it transports.
• Joint Strength: CPVC pipe and fittings are glued together by solvent cement, a substance that chemically joins a pipe to a fitting at the molecular level. Unlike glue used in other piping systems, solvent cemented joints become a part of the pipe system, and don’t break, if properly installed.
• Chlorine Resistance: Chlorine-based disinfectants, especially chlorine dioxide can cause pipe failures. However, CPVC is unaffected by chlorine, keeping the pipes safe.
• Biofilm Resistance: bacterial growth is most commonly found in water distribution systems, however, CPVC helps to keep water pure.

To learn more about CPVC pipes and fittings, reach out to the expert pipe suppliers of UAE, Alaska Trading.You can write at [email protected] or [email protected]. Alternatively, you can also give them a call on +971 54 397 4576/+971 67 480 955.