PVC pipes are one of the most popular piping materials for buried installation. They’re highly durable, flexible, and easy to install. However, it is crucial to follow best practices when installing pipes underground. Because problems can be difficult to detect, following ASTM Standards and building codes is essential.
PVC pipes are stronger than metal pipes
The strength factor is the key factor that determines the durability of a pipe. It determines how long the pipe can last and what it can handle. Steel and PVC pipes are both considered to be strong, but steel is stronger and needs less maintenance. Steel pipes have better tensile strength and can withstand a wider range of temperature and environmental conditions than PVC pipes. Steel pipes are also less prone to burst pipes, leaks, and pitting corrosion.
Among the disadvantages of PVC pipes are that they are not always as strong as metal pipes, which makes them unsuitable for impact applications. Additionally, PVC pipes can be more expensive and need frequent replacement. This can be a costly proposition for construction companies. Steel pipes don’t have these drawbacks, and they are far easier to install. PVC pipes, on the other hand, can be bulky and can be more difficult to refurbish or fabricate.
They are flexible
When buried underground, Flexible PVC pipe needs to be properly protected against extreme temperatures. It can grow to two or three times its natural diameter in summer temperatures. Because of this, it must be laid in a sand bed or covered with a layer of sand to prevent any possible damage. However, it’s important to remember that this pipe is not meant to be used in areas that experience dead head pressure.
Most PVC pipes are buried underground in temperatures of 65 to 70 degrees. The ground acts as a heat sink. As a result, even 100-degree water will not get to the pipe. However, soil compaction can affect the temperature of buried pipe.
They are abrasion resistant
One of the most important considerations in deciding whether a pipe is abrasion resistant is its Brinnel Hardness No. (BHN). A BHN of 800 or higher means that the pipe is very hard. Anything less would be brittle, and this would be unacceptable in a piping system. As a result, abrasion resistance is a critical consideration when pipe systems are subjected to constant flexing and movement. This constant flexing and movement of piping systems makes maintenance and repair an absolute must. The economics of the process will dictate the appropriate material based on its abrasion resistance, including the repair and maintenance costs.
Several studies have examined the abrasion resistance of different plastic pipes. One test, known as the Rotating Pipe Test (RPT), simulates a sliding bed flow of a slurry through a pipe. This test has excellent reproducibility. The slurry flow rate in the test has been varied over time, allowing for better analysis of the performance of each material.
They are colour-coded to comply with building regulations
PVC pipes are colour-coded to help you identify them. Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC pipes have different colours to distinguish them. Schedule 40 pipes are usually light gray and Schedule 80 pipes are dark gray. They are both made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and are available in nominal pipe sizes. These types of pipes are often used in construction, piping applications, and electrical cable insulation. They are both safe to handle and do not leak when used according to their intended purpose.
Colour-coding is a crucial safety measure. It provides vital information about the contents of a pipe. If pipe labels are not properly followed, the wrong kind of chemical can leak into the system and cause an accident. The process of colour-coding pipes is not difficult and is based on industry standards. The most commonly used standard is the ANSI/ASME A13.1 standard.
They are durable
PVC pipes are an excellent choice for burying underground drainage systems because they are strong and versatile. However, the process of installing and burying PVC pipes requires special care and knowledge. It is important to follow the ASTM standards for proper trench construction and pipe depth. Additionally, the project should adhere to the building codes of the area where the pipes will be buried. By following these best practices, you can extend the lifespan of the pipes.
If you plan to install PVC pipes underground, it is important to follow the city building department’s guidelines. In most cities, you must install underground pipes at a minimum of six inches below maximum frost depth. In addition, permanent lines that are exposed to heavy traffic should be covered with a minimum of 24 inches of concrete. If you do not follow these guidelines, you may cause damage to the pipes.
They offer a long service life
One of the advantages of PVC pipes is their long service life. These pipes are very resistant to the effects of water, weather, and soil chemistry. They can last over 100 years and are non-degradable. Stainless steel can corrode over time, but PVC is impervious to these effects.
A recent study conducted by the Dutch Institute for Technical Research (TNO) found that PVC pipes offer a 100-year service life. Its findings are expected to be welcomed by users and other major stakeholders in the sector. The study involved sampling of PVC pipes from various excavations in the Netherlands over a period of 40 years. The samples underwent a variety of tests, including geometrical analysis, inner surface degradation assessment, and visual inspection.
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