PVC Pipe Metric

Our PVCu metric pipe is available in sizes 16mm to 315mm with pressure ratings of 10 and 16bar. This is in standard PVC dark grey but is also available as clear pipe.

Imperial PVC pipe sizes are expressed by the nominal bore of the pipe, which is an approximation of the internal bore. In reality, a 3" PVC pipe will not measure 3" internally, for example. However, a class C 3" pipe will have exactly the same outer diameter as a class D 3" pipe, and the same as any other 3" PVC pipe. This is because the wall thickness of the pipe governs the pressure, and allows any 3" PVC pipe to fit in any 3" PVC pipe fitting.

Metric PVC pipe sizes are slightly different. Although they are also controlled by the outer diameter e.g. a 50mm PVC pipe will always have the same outer diameter, regardless of its pressure class, the expressed measurement IS the outer diameter. So in this example, a 50mm PVC pipe will measure 50mm across its diameter.

For detailed data on PVC pipe sizes, please select the ‘More Info’ tab in the relevant pipe pages. If you have any queries on sizes, please do not hesitate to contact us. We'd much rather answer your questions and give advice before you commit to a purchase.

As a material, polyvinyl chloride - unplasticised has a wide temperature and pressure range, coupled with great chemical resistance, meaning it can be relied upon in a number of applications, such as water treatment, heating, cooling, chemical and industrial fluid handling, and effluent treatment. As PVC is odourless and tasteless, it is also ideal for transporting potable water (drinking water).

 

Material	Polyvinyl chloride – unplasticised
Operating Temperature	5°C to 60°C
Standards	BS EN ISO 1452-1:2009 (General) BS EN ISO 1452-2:2009 (Pipes)
Note	Not suitable for use with compressed air

 

Approvals:

	WRAS approved Approval number 2010508
	BSI Kitemark approved Licence number KM60041

 

Video - PVC vs ABS: What's the Difference?

 

Downloads:

PVC Chemical Compatibility General Guide

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What does PVCu stand for?

A: Polyvinyl chloride - unplasticised.

Q: What's the difference between PVC, PVCu and uPVC?

A: PVCu and uPVC are exactly the same and, in our industry, are often shortened to just PVC.

Q: How do you connect PVC pipe and fittings?

A: For plain ended fittings, PVC solvent cement is used for joining. For threaded fittings, it is recommended PTFE tape is used on the thread to create a more reliable joint.

Q: What's the difference between PVC and ABS?

A: Click here to see our extremely informative video which addresses this very subject.

 

If you require any further information, our excellent customer service team is here to help so please call us on 01794 835835.