ABS Pressure Pipe: The Ultimate Guide
The ABS-olute guide to ABS pressure pipe
Published: 19th September 2025 - Updated: 26th September 2025
In this guide, you'll learn everything you need to know about ABS Pressure Pipe, from the basics of what it's made from, all the way through to installation.
We hope this guide can answer your questions, but should you need further advice, please get in contact with us.
What does ABS stand for?
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene.
What is ABS pipe made from?
ABS pipe is made from Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, a tough, durable thermoplastic. It’s a polymer blend of three different monomers, each contributing useful properties:
- Acrylonitrile: Provides chemical resistance and strength.
- Butadiene: Adds toughness and impact resistance, especially at low temperatures.
- Styrene: Contributes rigidity, a smooth finish, and ease of processing.
When combined, these elements create a lightweight yet strong plastic that resists impact, corrosion, and a wide range of chemicals. That’s why ABS pipe is widely used in plumbing, industrial systems, marine applications, and even drainage and vent systems.
Is ABS known by any other names?
ABS is most commonly known as ABS plastic or ABS piping, and there are no other widely used alternative names for it within the piping industry.
What is ABS Pressure Pipe used for?
ABS Pressure pipe is used in a wide range of applications due to its unique characteristics compared to other piping systems, some of these include:
- Cold Water Distribution
- ABS pressure pipe is commonly used in pressurised cold water supply systems in industrial, commercial, and institutional buildings.
- Its smooth bore reduces frictional losses, ensuring efficient flow over long runs.
- Chilled Water & Cooling Systems
- Because ABS retains its toughness at low temperatures (down to approx. –40 °C), it is ideal for chilled water circuits, refrigeration pipework, and secondary cooling loops.
- It resists brittleness under cold conditions, making it more reliable than some alternative plastics.
- Water Treatment & Filtration Plants
- Widely used to transport process water, treated water, and chemical dosing solutions.
- Its resistance to a broad range of acids, alkalis, and salts makes it particularly suited to dosing and distribution lines.
- Marine & Offshore Systems
- ABS pressure pipe is lightweight, easy to install, and corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for ships, offshore platforms, and other marine environments.
- Being halogen-free, it also meets fire-safety regulations in the marine sector.
- Industrial Process Lines
- Used to convey pressurised effluent, mild chemicals, cooling fluids, and salt solutions.
- The system can be solvent-welded for permanent joints, reducing the risk of leakage in critical applications.
- Food & Beverage Industry
- ABS pressure pipe is often installed in low-temperature process applications where hygiene, smooth internal surfaces, and corrosion resistance are required.
Why It’s Chosen Over Alternatives
- Lightweight vs. Metal – Much easier to transport and install compared to steel or copper.
- Corrosion Resistance – Unlike metals, ABS does not rust, scale, or suffer from galvanic corrosion.
- Low Maintenance – Once installed, systems require minimal upkeep, saving on operational costs.
- Safety – ABS is non-toxic, halogen-free, and suitable for environments with strict health or fire-safety standards.
How is ABS pipe measured?
Measurements of standard ABS are always taken from the outside diameter of the pipe. ABS is sold in metric and imperial sizes in the UK.
Click on the expanding tables below for specific details!
| Nominal Size (inch) | Average Outside Diameter (mm) | Average Bore Inside Diameter (mm) | Average Wall Thickness (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class C - 9 bar | |||
| 1 | 33.6 | 29.6 | 2.0 |
| 1 1/4 | 42.3 | 37.3 | 2.5 |
| 1 1/2 | 48.3 | 42.6 | 2.9 |
| 2 | 60.4 | 53.3 | 3.6 |
| 2 1/2 | 75.2 | 68.0 | 3.6 |
| 3 | 88.9 | 78.6 | 5.2 |
| 4 | 114.3 | 101.5 | 6.4 |
| 5 | 140.2 | 126.8 | 6.7 |
| 6 | 168.3 | 148.5 | 9.9 |
| 8 | 219.1 | 193.7 | 12.7 |
| Class E - 15 bar | |||
| 1/2 | 21.4 | 17.4 | 2.0 |
| 3/4 | 26.8 | 21.8 | 2.5 |
| 1 | 33.6 | 27.3 | 3.2 |
| 1 1/4 | 42.3 | 34.4 | 4.0 |
| 1 1/2 | 48.3 | 39.2 | 4.6 |
| 2 | 60.4 | 49.2 | 5.6 |
| 3 | 88.9 | 72.4 | 8.3 |
| 4 | 114.3 | 93.1 | 10.6 |
| Class T - 12 bar | |||
| 1/2 | 21.4 | 14.2 | 3.6 |
| 3/4 | 26.8 | 19.6 | 3.6 |
| 1 | 33.6 | 24.9 | 4.4 |
| 1 1/4 | 42.3 | 31.7 | 5.3 |
| 1 1/2 | 48.3 | 36.3 | 6.0 |
| 2 | 60.4 | 46.0 | 7.2 |
All measurements are averages. Tolerances are in accordance with BS 5391.
| Outside Diameter (mm) | Inside Diameter (mm) | Average Wall Thickness (mm) | Weight (kg/m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 Bar | |||
| 16 | 13.0 | 1.5 | 0.07 |
| 20 | 17.0 | 1.5 | 0.10 |
| 25 | 22.0 | 1.5 | 0.14 |
| 32 | 28.2 | 1.9 | 0.21 |
| 40 | 35.2 | 2.4 | 0.33 |
| 50 | 44.0 | 3.0 | 0.52 |
| 63 | 55.4 | 3.8 | 0.81 |
| 75 | 68.0 | 4.5 | 1.14 |
| 90 | 79.2 | 5.4 | 1.65 |
| 110 | 96.8 | 6.6 | 2.45 |
| 125 | 110.2 | 7.4 | 3.13 |
| 140 | 123.4 | 8.3 | 3.97 |
| 160 | 141.0 | 9.5 | 5.13 |
| 200 | 176.2 | 11.9 | 8.06 |
| 225 | 198.2 | 13.4 | 10.17 |
| 250 | 220.4 | 14.8 | 12.31 |
| 8 Bar | |||
| 315 | 277.6 | 18.7 | 20.00 |
All measurements are averages.
How long does ABS pressure pipe last?
In the right conditions, it can last for several decades. In typical indoor installations, where it is protected from sunlight and used within its operating limits, ABS pressure pipe can achieve a service life of 50 years or more. Many manufacturers test and design ABS systems with this lifespan in mind.
What fittings can be used on ABS pressure pipe?
ABS pressure pipe is typically used with solvent-weld fittings, which are joined using a specialist solvent cement. This process chemically fuses the pipe and fitting together, creating a strong, permanent, and leak-proof connection that is built to last.
How do I cut ABS pressure pipe?
There are two main methods for cutting ABS pressure pipe: using an ABS/PVC saw or an adjustable pipe cutter. A saw is often the quicker and more cost-effective option, but it tends to leave a rougher edge on the pipe. In contrast, an adjustable pipe cutter provides a cleaner, more precise finish. For a detailed guide on cutting ABS pressure pipe with an adjustable pipe cutter, watch the video below. Regardless of how the pipe is cut, it is always recommended to chamfer and deburr the pipe after cutting.
How do I join ABS pressure pipe?
The most popular method for joining ABS pipe (as mentioned above) is by the use of solvent weld fittings. These are easy to install, cost-effective and provide a strong, chemically bonded seal.
- Cut the pipe to the desired length
- Chamfer and deburr the pipe, and remove any debris created by this process
- Dry fit the fitting onto the pipe and mark a line where the fitting ends to ensure proper fitment when glueing
- Use an emery cloth on the end of the pipe to ensure good adhesion
- Use cleaning fluid on a paper towel to clean both the end of the pipe and the inside of the fitting
- Apply a generous amount of solvent cement to the end of the pipe and the inside of the fitting using a brush
- Avoid twisting and push the fitting onto the pipe, holding it in place for 30 seconds
- Wipe away any excess glue for a smooth finish
Things to remember:
- Always measure twice to ensure the correct cut is made
- Always clean the pipe and fittings before applying cement
- Always allow enough time for the cement to set before use - 30 seconds initial set, 24 hours full cure time
Can I use PVC glue on ABS pipe?
- No, the chemicals used to create ABS and PVC are different, and thus require different compounds to join them
The video below will show you everything you need to know about joining pipes with solvent welding. Please note, this video is on PVC; however, the process is exactly the same, just make sure to use ABS cement!
What is the difference between ABS and PVCu?
ABS is commonly used in many sectors; however, it does have limitations. See the table below for more information.
| Trait | ABS | PVCu |
| Impact / Strength | ABS is better at low temperatures and is more impact-resistant. Less likely to become brittle in cold. | More brittle under impact, especially at lower temperatures. PVCu’s performance decreases more with cold. |
| Temperature | -40 - 70° | 0 - 60°C |
| Chemical Resistance | Good vs diluted inorganic acids, salts, some oils/fats; not good with organic solvents, petrol, vegetable oils, etc | Broader chemical resistance overall. Some PVCu pipes are better than ABS vs more aggressive chemicals |
| UV / Outdoor Use | Not UV resistant; needs protection from sunlight | Better UV resistance. More suitable for outdoor exposure |
| Cost | Often more expensive, but can be required in certain areas | Generally cheaper, very widely used |
Suitability & Applications
- Use ABS when you need good performance in cold environments or need resistance to impact, or when low-temperature brittleness is a concern. Industrial/low temperature, where impact or rough handling might occur.
- Use PVCu when you need higher chemical resistance, better UV durability, or higher pressure capacity (if rated accordingly). Also often used in potable water, irrigation, and general industrial fluid transport.
The video below will explain the differences and similarities between ABS and PVC pressure pipe.
We hope this guide has helped answer your questions and given you a clear idea of whether ABS is the right choice for your job. It should also give you the confidence to fit and use it properly, so you can get the best results.
To make things even easier, we’ve included some extra videos below!
Useful Videos
Still have questions? Get in touch via the contact us page.
