PVC is a white plastic pipe often used in plumbing and drainage systems. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride and has become a popular alternative to metal pipe. Because of its strength, durability, ease of installation, and low cost, PVC is one of the most widely used polymers in the world. PVC is a synthetic polymer that can be moulded into a variety of forms to make pipes, fittings, valves, and other liquid handling equipment. It is suitable for recreational applications/construction, cold water systems, vent systems, and drainage systems.
PVC pipes are used in diverse options of pipeline applications, including drinking water transportation, drainage solutions, and contemporary fire-sprinkler systems. This popularity can be attributed to a one-of-a-kind combination of properties, including safety, durability, cost-efficiency, environmental performance, and recyclability.
Benefits of PVC pipes
PVC plumbing pipes are a secure option for transporting drinking water. This is owing to their high degree of inertness and corrosion resistance. As a result, PVC pipes are devoid of biofilm pollution, which can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria. PVC pipes promote public health by aiding in the delivery of safe drinking water.
Migration levels are negligible- PVC may be considered a functional barrier since it is utilised below its glass transition temperature (80°C). Therefore, these pipes prevent the migration of low molecular weight contaminants to drinking water. Migration tests have revealed migration levels well below the detection limits of today’s most sophisticated analytical tools.
- PVC pipes are both long-lasting and cost-effective- Over 80 years ago, the first PVC plumbing fittings were laid out, and the majority of these are still in use today. A PVC pipe has an expected lifespan of 100 years or more for underground pipes. Furthermore, PVC pipe systems fail at a considerably lower rate than other materials. Compared to other piping materials, PVC pipes are also the most cost-effective option over their entire lifetime. This comprises the expenditures of purchasing pipes, installing, operating, and maintaining the pipeline, as well as dismantling it. Because of its +100-year durability and low total cost of ownership, utilities may confidently pick PVC for their pipe infrastructure.
- PVC pipes are the most environmentally friendly option- PVC pipes outperform older materials in terms of environmental impact. Because PVC is a low-carbon material, it requires less energy and resources to manufacture. Because of their small weight, they require less energy to transport. These pipes last a long time with little maintenance and are easily recyclable. Recyclates are found in many new PVC pipes.
For example, three-layer pipes with a recycled PVC core layer. Furthermore, these pipes’ ultra-smooth surface minimises pumping costs and energy consumption, and their leak-free fittings decrease water loss. This is healthy for the environment as well as the power bill.
- PVC pipes are recyclable– PVC pipes are easily recyclable and may be reused several times without losing any of their technical features. Every year, around 80,000 tonnes of PVC pipes are recycled in Europe. This recycled material is utilised to make new pipes and a variety of other PVC goods. Traceability and certification methods for recyclates guarantee that recycled PVC is safe and high-quality.
- PVC recycling provides jobs while conserving energy and resources- Using recycled PVC helps satisfy resource-efficiency goals while preserving natural resources. 2 kg of CO2 is saved for every kilogramme of PVC recycled. From this perspective, CO2 reductions from PVC recycling in Europe currently exceed 1.5 million tonnes per year, for a total of 13 million tonnes saved since 2000.
Furthermore, the main energy requirement of recycled PVC is up to 90% lower than that of raw PVC manufacture. PVC recycling also generates green employment; the 730,000 tonnes of PVC recycled in Europe by 2020 have resulted in the creation of more than 1,500 direct jobs in recycling plants. Therefore, you can consider installing a PVC pipe system for the plumbing needs of your home or office.
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