Commonly used to create plumbing pipes and fittings, polyvinyl chloride is a man-made plastic with added stabilizers that prevent oxidation and degradation.
CPVC is a thermoplastic made by further chlorination of the polyvinyl chloride resin. This means its chemical composition is two carbon atoms bonded to each other with two hydrogen atoms and two chlorine atoms bonded to this double carbon unit. This molecule links with others to form polymer chains of CPVC.
The main difference between CPVC and PVC is the range of temperatures each is capable of withstanding. CPVC can handle temperatures up to 200° Fahrenheit, while PVC peaks at 140° Fahrenheit. Above those temperatures, both CPVC and PVC will begin to soften, increasing the risk of joints and pipes failing, and therefore, failing of the plumbing system.
The primers, solvent cements, and bonding agents are different for PVC and CPVC due to the differences in the material's chemical composition. For example, CPVC solvent cements must meet ASTM F493 specifications, and PVC solvent cements must meet ASTM D2564 specifications. Because of this, CPVC and PVC pipes and fittings, along with their solvents and bonding agents, should not be used interchangeably. In addition to meeting ASTM specifications, there are different solvent cements required based on the pipe’s size and intended application, so check the product containers to be sure you’re using the correct agent for the correct application.
PVC comes in nominal pipe sizes only, while CPVC is available in both nominal pipe sizes and copper tube sizes. CPVC has greater flexibility than PVC, and requires support at three foot intervals to maintain its position.
Commercial: Plumbing, drainage, and sewage infrastructure
Drinking and process water delivery and distribution
Residential: plumbing, drainage, sewage infrastructure
Both resist corrosion and degradation from chemicals classified as an acid, alkali, or inorganic material.
PVC maximum functional temperature is 140° Fahrenheit.
CPVC maximum functional temperature is 200° Fahrenheit.
The extra chlorine in CPVC increases chemical strength and helps prevent bacteria / biofilm formation within the pipes.
Both are impact-resistant and durable.
Both are safe for use with potable water when ANSI / NSF 61 certified.
PVC has a peak temperature threshold of 140° Fahrenheit. For applications requiring temperatures above that, CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is recommended. CPVC offers some benefits over PVC, but at a slightly higher price point.
PVC Pipe
Budget-friendly, temperatures under 140° Fahrenheit, most suitable for recreational applications, residential construction, DIY projects and cold water distribution.
CPVC Pipe
Superior resistance and performance, temperatures under 200° Fahrenheit, most suitable for commercial applications, chemical handling and hot water distribution.
Luoyang Dema Import & Export Co., Ltd. aims to provide high-quality, cost-effective products for global factories, plastic product manufacturers, and material distributors. Luoyang Dema Import & Export Co., Ltd. provides the best PP, PE, PVC, PET, EVA, ABS material solutions for plastic product manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, distributors, factory owners, processing workshops, etc.
If you are looking for general plastic materials, please feel free to get the latest prices and quotations from Luoyang Dema Import & Export Co., Ltd. The sales team will reply within 48 hours.
Ask a quote for the latest price and one of our team members will respond as soon as possible. Fields marked with * are required.
