How are PVC pipes produced?
Arguably one of the most universal and versatile types of plastic piping, PVC pipes have been in use for over 80 years, servicing a multitude of applications in various market sectors around the world. Compared to metal piping, PVC pipes are exceptionally strong and durable, with complete corrosion resistance and with little risk of succumbing to thermal expansion or contraction. Economical and robust, these pipes come in various sizes with a range of available fittings and can be used for both warm or cold water applications depending on the type of PVC variant.
PVC pipes are manufactured by extrusion of raw material PVC, and generally follow the same steps of typical pipe extrusion operations: • Feeding of raw material pellets / powder into the PVC twin screw extruder • Melting and heating in multiple extruder zones • Extruding through a die to shape into a pipe • Cooling of the shaped pipe • Cutting of PVC pipes to the desired length However, despite having a similar manufacturing procedure to most plastic piping, PVC pipes have intrinsic characteristics that pose additional challenges to pipe manufacturers both in terms of production, as well as positioning their products on the market.
PVC pipes are commonly used for manufacturing sewage pipes, water mains and irrigation.