Different Types of Plastic Pipes for Water
Can you imagine a house without pipes? Probably not. After all, contractors use them for many major elements of the house.
Of course, no other construction component requires pipes more than the plumbing and sewage system.
Whether it’s for clean water transport or drainage, different types of plastic pipes for water play an essential role in the efficiency, sanitation and safety of the entire structure.
Although there are still other materials used for pipes today, plastic has become a prime choice for this plumbing element. In fact, manufacturers have developed a wide range of plastic pipe options for water distribution that also has other residential and commercial uses.
From ABS and HDPE to various types of PVC water pipes, below are the five types of plastic pipes used for water transport today:
1. ABS
Considered the first type of plastic used in pipes, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic is considered a cost-effective option for commercial and residential plumbing. These pipes don’t peel, flake, dissolve, fade, rot, or leak (unless punctured).
Because of their characteristics, ABS pipes are often the primary choice for underground and exterior applications involving extremely cold temperatures and in locations away from direct sunlight.
Appearance
ABS pipes always come in black color. They are also less flexible than polyvinyl chloride or PVC.
ABS pipes contain bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical known to boost durability but has been questioned for its safety. Note, however, that BPA is considered safe to use by health authorities in specific amounts.
Applications
You’ll find most ABS pipes used in drain, waste, vent lines, and other outdoor and underground applications. They are also utilized in sewer systems and as a form of electrical insulation.
2. PVC
Short for polyvinyl chloride, PVC is a type of plastic with a wide range of uses – piping included.
Besides being more flexible than ABS, PVC pipes are also known to last up to 80 years, depending on the conditions of application.
Appearance
Most PVC pipes are white, though others come in various colors as well. The different hues and markings printed on the pipes serve as indicators of their specific use.
For example, purple pipes with black prints are commonly used for reclaimed water.
PVC pipes also come in various thicknesses, called “schedules.” Water distribution systems typically have Schedule 40 pipes.
Applications
PVC has arguably the broadest range of plumbing uses among all plastic pipes used for water supply.
It often works as a water main or drainage pipe, but it has also been used for irrigation piping. You may even find some in water systems built into swimming pools and spas.
One of the few exceptions is hot water distribution and any other application involving temperatures higher than 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. CPVC
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipes are made from chlorine-treated PVC plastic. The additional chlorine treatment boosts the plastic’s strength and adds a biofilm inside the pipes, hindering bacterial growth.
Appearance
Most CPVC pipes have an off-white or cream color. However, some pipes have a tinge of light grey or yellow.
It sports the same diameter copper and cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes, which means the fittings used for the two also work with CPVC piping.
Like PVC, you can also find bell end and plain end CPVC pipes in the same thickness (Schedule 40 and 80).
Applications
The additional treatment gives CPVC pipes more resistance to higher temperatures than PVC.
Unlike the latter, CPVC can withstand up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a viable choice for cold and hot water lines. This is the reason why these plastic pipes are most common in industrial plumbing.
Of course, CPVC pipes are also found in houses to distribute potable water.
Although they are more flexible, these pipes can crack when exposed to freezing conditions. This explains why CPVC isn’t used underground.
4. HDPE
High-density polyethylene – more commonly known as HDPE – is a type of plastic used to make everyday items such as bottles, helmets, containers, cosmetics, and toys. Because it is non-toxic and odorless, HDPE has also been a popular choice among the available types of plastic water pipe for plumbing, drainage and water systems.
HDPE pipe fittings and pipes can last for over 50 years.
5. PEX
Cross-linked polyethylene plastic or PEX is a flexible material manufactured using medium- to high-density polyethylene (HDPE). It’s the newest addition to the plastic water pipe family and is sometimes referred to as an eco-friendly option for green buildings.
PEX pipes are known for their ease of installation, though they do require a special crimping tool for more permanent connections.
PEX may also have a higher price tag than the rest of the plastic pipes listed here.
Appearance
PEX plastic pipes are color-coded, depending on how these are used (e.g., hot or cold lines). In terms of size, they come in quarter-inch to three-inch nominal diameters.
Applications
Because of their flexibility and capacity to curve around obstructions and tight corners, PEX pipes are used for hydronic radiant heating and hot-and-cold water distribution systems inside buildings and houses.
PEX pipes contract and expand accordingly to accommodate very low or very high temperatures. They also require fewer fittings than more rigid pipes, which means less pressure is lost during water transport.
The Plastic Pipe Family
Plastic pipes are arguably the most preferred choice in commercial and residential plumbing, particularly for water distribution. Each comes with its own advantages, so choose wisely among the members of the plastic pipe family using this article as a guide.
Looking for HDPE and PVC pipes for your next project? Want to know which PVC pipe is best for water supply? Explore our products page to see the wide range of pipes and accessories we have for your needs.
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