Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipes are lightweight and can resist high temperatures. This makes them perfect for residential and commercial plumbing.
It’s also unaffected by chlorine levels in water. This is ideal for use in hospitals, hotels and other low-rise buildings that require pure and hygienic water supplies.
Since CPVC tubing is typically sized the same as copper pipe, grip-style mechanical fittings work well with it. You’ll also need solvent cement and a tubing cutter for installation.
1. Flexibility
CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is more flexible than PVC and offers improved insulating properties. This flexibility helps reduce noise from water flowing through pipes and improves its ability to maintain a temperature for hot or cold piping systems.
Unlike copper, CPVC can be used in temperatures up to 200 degrees F. Temperatures over that will cause the pipe to soften and could weaken the joints. However, this is not a problem with properly installed CPVC systems because the pipes are fused together using solvent cement. This cement chemically fuses the pipe to a fitting at the molecular level, which provides a very strong joint that cannot be cut or broken apart.
Like PVC, CPVC is resistant to corrosion and can be used in both hot and cold water systems. Its insulating capabilities help to reduce energy loss and it is also fire retardant due to its chemical composition that contains a halogen element.
CPVC pipes and fittings are joined with solvent cement rather than soldered, which makes them quick and easy to install. A wide variety of CPVC connectors are available, including elbows, tees, bushings, valves and more. The fittings connect to the pipes with a special wrench, which allows you to make tight connections without applying too much pressure. CPVC is also compatible with the standard PVC pipe sizing system and the CTS (Copper Tube Size) sizing system, so you can use either of these on your plumbing project.
2. Corrosion Resistance
CPVC pipes are known for their ability to resist corrosion and abrasion. This makes them a great choice for residential plumbing applications. They’re also resistant to temperature changes, which means that they won’t be affected by seasonal fluctuations. They’re not as affected by pH change, either, which helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and other organisms.
Both PVC and CPVC are stable materials that can last for decades under normal conditions. They’re able to handle a wide range of chemicals and temperatures, making them suitable for use in many different environments. They’re also innately fire retardant, thanks to their chemical composition. This makes them a good choice for industrial and commercial settings, as well as for residential plumbing.
In order to maximize the life of CPVC, plumbers should carefully inspect pipe and fittings for damage before installing them. They should always look for gouges, scratches, and cuts, as these can weaken the material and lead to leaks. They should also ensure that all components are free from any contaminating substances.
CPVC isn’t prone to cracking under most circumstances, although it can suffer from stress corrosion cracking in extreme cases. This can happen if the pipes are exposed to very corrosive chemicals or high levels of strain. This problem is rare, however, and can be avoided by using high-quality CPVC pipes that are expertly manufactured.
3. Strength
CPVC pipes are extremely strong, making them resistant to cracking or warping. They’re also resistant to many chemicals and corrosive substances, even after years of exposure. This enables them to stand up well to sudden shifts in temperature, making them an excellent choice for heating systems and water distribution.
In addition, they’re safe to use in food grade, consumable, and drinking (potable) water applications. However, if you aren’t careful when handling these pipes, they can be damaged or cracked. They can also crack if they’re exposed to sudden shocks or pressures.
Like PVC, CPVC can handle high operating temperatures of up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Exposing them to hotter water than that can cause them to warp or melt, leading to blockages and other problems.
Unlike copper, CPVC pipes aren’t susceptible to chlorine degradation and have a lifespan far longer than metal pipe systems. This longevity saves you money in the long run by cutting down on maintenance costs and extending your plumbing’s useful life.
CPVC is also a great option for residential plumbing because it has a lower installation cost than most other metal options. Its installation requires only a solvent cement and not a torch or solder, which means it’s a safer and faster process for contractors. Moreover, CPVC is also a more affordable option because it uses about 30% fewer fittings than PEX systems, which can add up to big savings.
4. Cost
CPVC plumbing pipes have been used in homes for decades. Their manufacturing process gives them a high resistance to degradation, ensuring they last a long time. That durability makes them a great choice for plumbing systems.
They’re also a cost-effective solution for homeowners, as they can be installed and maintained at a much lower price than copper or steel pipe. In addition, the piping system is easier to work with. Unlike copper, which can be very brittle and requires special tools for installation and service, CPVC can be cut with a saw or a fine-toothed cutter. The resulting joint is then bonded using solvent cement. This joining method is faster and easier than fusion welding, which requires expensive tools and can lead to bead formation that reduces the designed water flow rate.
Like PVC, CPVC withstands heat better than metal. That’s why it’s often used in hot-water systems in homes and commercial settings. However, it’s not suitable for heating systems that operate at temperatures above 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
CPVC is a little more expensive than PVC, but you’ll find that the difference isn’t significant in most applications. You’ll also notice that CPVC and PVC look very similar on the outside. Whether you choose PVC or CPVC, be sure to buy products that have their technical specifications printed on them.