PVC

Poly(vinyl chloride), commonly abbreviated PVC, is the third-most widely produced polymer, after polyethylene and polypropylene. PVC is used in construction because it is more effective than traditional materials such as copper, iron or wood in pipe and profile applications. It can be made softer and more flexible by the addition of plasticizers, the most widely used being phthalates. In this form, it is also used in plumbing, electrical cable insulation, inflatable products and many applications where it replaces rubber.

PVC is a rigid material that is chemically nonreactive. It can be easily heat-formed, welded or solvent-cemented. In addition, it can be machined using standard metalworking tools to close tolerances and finishes. PVC has a broad range of applications, from high-volume construction-related products to simple electric-wire insulation and coatings. PVC resins are normally mixed with other additives, such as impact modifiers and stabilizers, resulting in hundreds of PVC-based materials with a variety of engineering properties. PVC accepts paint and performs well under most silk-screening processes. It also is tasteless, odorless, and nontoxic.

Key Properties

Good electrical properties
Chemically inert
Tasteless, odorless and nontoxic
Dimensional stability
High impact strength
Standard Shapes and Forms
Sheet: .030” - 4” thick
Rod: .250” – 16” diameter
Tubular Bar: 1.312” – 8.625” OD / .687” – 5.75” ID
Other Forms: Perforated sheet, foam board, welding rod, Profiles: angle, hex rod, u-channel, square and rectangular tube, Pipe & Fittings, Flexible Tubing.

A Corrosion Guide is available on the Pipe & Fittings page and the Technical Specifications page.
The range of sizes and shapes are grade specific, please contact us for more information.

Grades and Colors

Type I

Type I PVC is a normal-impact, highly corrosion-resistant material with exceptional chemical resistance. It is ideal for applications with high concentrations of acid and alkali, where normal working temperatures are relatively low, and where the application environment is not subject to excessive physical abuse. Standard color is gray; also available in clear and white.

Type II

Type II PVC has excellent thermoforming capabilities, contour definition, and surface texture. It also is hot and cold formable and absorbs little moisture. Type II PVC has greater impact values and lower chemical resistance than Type I.

PVC Pictures