PVC Vs CPVC: What’s the Difference Between Them?

Is CPVC the same as PVC? Many assume they are, but their differences go beyond the extra letter.

With several years of experience in the field of plastic pipe manufacturing, we aim to settle the PVC vs CPVC debate by sharing the most important information about these two types of plastic.  

You can be more confident about choosing the right material for your project armed with these pieces of information.

PVC vs CPVC

Below, we take a look at the differences between PVC and CPVC.

PVC

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a synthetic resin produced through vinyl chloride polymerization. It is rigid yet lightweight in its pure form but can also be manufactured to create more flexible products.

This versatile thermoplastic material is known for its durability and chemical resistance. It is used in various commercial, domestic, and industrial products.

The versatility and durability of PVC pipes in the UAE make them popular options for various applications across different industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive.

CPVC

Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) is a type of plastic formed through the chlorination of PVC resin.

This process decomposes chlorine gas, turning it into free-radical chlorine. This reacts with PVC in the post-production step. The additional chlorine then replaces a portion of the hydrogen in the final product.

Because of the added chlorine, CPVC is more flexible, durable, and has better insulating properties than PVC. These qualities make this material a recommended option for infrastructure pipes, potable water systems, and fire protection applications.

What Is the Difference Between PVC and CPVC Pipes?

Knowing the main differences between these two materials can settle the CPVC vs PVC debate and help you make the right decision when choosing pipes.

Below are these differences:

• Temperature: CPVC can handle extreme heat up to 200° Fahrenheit (93.33° Celsius), while PVC can withstand temperatures up to 140° Fahrenheit (60° Celsius).
• Tensile strength: CPVC has a minimum tensile strength of 8,200 psi, while the PVC’s is 2,031 psi.
• Sizes: CPVC pipes come in nominal pipe sizes (NPS) and copper tube sizes (CTS). PVC pipes are only available in nominal pipe sizes.
• Required bonding materials: In piping systems, CPVC and PVC pipes require different primers, solvent cements, and bonding agents during installation. For instance, CPVC pipes need solvent cement that meets ASTM F493 specifications, while solvent cement certified ASTM D2564 should be used for PVC pipes.

Additionally, CPVC pipes are more flexible than PVC ones. However, CPVC pipes need support at three-foot intervals to stay in place.  

Pipe installation companies in the UAE say that PVC pipes stand out in terms of budget efficiency because they are more affordable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you still have questions about PVC vs CPVC pipes? Below are some details that can help clarify the distinction. 

1. Which is better, CPVC or PVC?

The main difference between PVC and CPVC can help you decide which is better between the two.

Because CPVC pipes can handle higher temperatures, they are suitable for piping systems that distribute hot water. They are also ideal for transporting other types of liquid and substances with varying temperatures.

The durability of these pipes makes them suitable for industrial, commercial, and residential applications, including potable water, hot and cold water, and gas distribution systems.

PVC pipes are more affordable but durable enough to handle fluids up to 140° Fahrenheit (60° Celsius). Because of this, they can be used to transport cold water and other substances that do not exceed the maximum temperature.

If budget may be an issue for a residential or commercial project, you can use this high-pressure pipe for potable water, cold water, and sprinkler systems, and drain and gas lines.

2. What happens if you use PVC instead of CPVC?

Although there are several instances where you can use PVC instead of CPVC, choosing PVC pipes to transport substances that go over 140° Fahrenheit (60° Celsius) can cause immediate damage.

The scorching substance can melt, create holes, or cause leaks in the PVC pipes.

3. Which is more expensive, PVC or CPVC?

CPVC is more expensive than PVC because of its resistance to extreme temperatures and exceptional flexibility and performance.

4. Is it OK to glue PVC to CPVC?

No. Firstly, you can’t connect PVC and CPVC pipes because they follow different sizing standards. Even if they have the same diameters, they may not fit together.

Because PVC and CPVC have different chemical compositions, each requires specific bonding materials. Using the wrong adhesive on both types can lead to weak joints, leaks, and breakdowns over time.

5. How can you tell if a pipe is PVC or CPVC?

You can tell if a pipe is PVC or CPVC by color, marking, weight, and hardness.

• PVC pipes are mostly gray or white while those made of CPVC are typically milky white or light yellow.  
• PVC pipes are marked as “PVC” or “PVC-U” (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride), while CPVC pipes bear their own acronym. You can find these markings on their surfaces.
• PVC pipes are lighter and thinner and make a crisp sound when tapped. On the other hand, CPVC pipes are heavier and thicker and make a dull sound when knocked on.

6. Why are CPVC pipes not used anymore?

CPVC pipes are still used today. However, their popularity has declined because some pipes break down prematurely.

A study showed that improper application of primer, which softens the pipe surfaces to connect two pipes, can cause this premature failure.

Although CPVC pipes are strong enough to handle chemicals, another study explains that they are incompatible with certain hydrocarbon chemicals. These include ethers, esters, ketones, and chlorinated hydrocarbons.

CPVC pipes can absorb these chemicals, which can cause them to turn brittle.

PVC and CPVC are closely related, but not usually interchangeable. By knowing their differences, you can choose the best type of pipe for your project.

Get in touch with us for more details about our piping products.