PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is one of the most widely used piping materials in North America. It accounts for the vast majority of pipe used in underground municipal applications, including drinking water distribution and sanitary sewer mains.
Why use PVC?
PVC piping offers a unique combination of light weight, high strength, and low reactivity, making it particularly well-suited for long-term underground use.
- ✅ Corrosion Resistant: Immune to underground electrochemical corrosion.
- ✅ Cost Effective: Lower material and installation costs than metal alternatives.
- ✅ Long Life: Engineered to last 100+ years in typical conditions.
- ✅ Easy Installation: Lightweight and easy to handle in the trench.
- ✅ Code Accepted: Widely approved for municipal and residential use.
- ✅ Environmentally Sound: Efficient to manufacture and fully recyclable.
Joining Methods
PVC pipes create permanent, leak-proof joints through Solvent Cementing (chemical welding), gasketed bell-and-spigot joints, or Heat Fusion. This sealed system is virtually impervious to root intrusion and leakage.
Common Applications
It is estimated that half of the world's annual PVC resin production is used for manufacturing pipes. In the US alone, PVC accounts for approx. 66% of the water distribution market and 75% of the sanitary sewer market.
Municipal
- Water Mains & Service Lines
- Sanitary Sewers
- Storm Drainage
- Irrigation Systems
Industrial & Residential
- Electrical Conduit (protection for wires)
- DWV (Drain-Waste-Vent)
- Process Piping
- Agricultural Drainage
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