Innovations and Advances in PVC Technology-1

PVC Pipe

PVC pipe is approximately 75% less expensive in use than PE pipe, (polyethylene HDPE). New advancements include PVC-O, oriented PVC and PVC-M, modified PVC. PVC-O has been successfully used in Australia for almost 20 years. This pipe is produced by re-aligning the molecules in PVC with Biaxial orientation. The pipe produced is considerably stronger, allowing the wall thickness to be reduced close to 50% while maintaining the same pressure strength.

This pipe offers increased hydraulic capacity and requires less energy use in production than PVC-U and other materials. PVC-O is lighter in weight making it easier to transport and work with. The material retains its strength in a wide range of temperatures and is highly impact resistant.

Fusible PVC is providing enormous benefits to trenchless technology. This pipe is extremely useful for replacing broken or damaged cast iron pipe. Cost savings are increased with a continuous pipe requiring no seal rings. Fusible PVC is being used in pressure and non-pressure lines and wastewater applications.

Modifying polymers added to PVC produce PVC-M pipe. PVC-M shows superior strength and resistance to cracks or scratches. The pipe can also be made with a thinner wall, reducing the material cost, while still offering the same durability.