Once you have built your house you need to install drinking, sewerage, and draining pipes as well. Just like electric fittings, plumbing is one of the essentials in the house. And in today’s world, we have several types of pipes that are installed to provide water with health hazards. They are widely demanded piping and plumbing for all sorts of industrial, commercial, and residential sectors. Especially, the Schedule 40 pipes – they are highly recommended for drinking water supply.
When it comes to plumbing, a variety of plastic pipe types are available. Plastic pipes are an excellent option for numerous projects due to their lightweight, low cost, and ease of installation. Depending on the use, plastic pipes may be more advantageous than metal pipes. This article provides an overview of the five varieties of plastic plumbing pipes available, including polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), polybutylene (PB), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). However, UPVC pipes are also strong, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for cold and hot water lines.
1. PVC Pipes
PVC pipes are plastic pipes utilized in a variety of plumbing applications. It is sturdy, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion, making them a perfect option for plumbing work. PVC pipes are also affordable, lightweight, and simple to install.
PVC pipes are frequently employed in residential plumbing, including water supply lines, drainage systems, and sewer lines. Additionally, they can transport propane and natural gas. In addition to drains, showers, and bathtubs, PVC pipes connect various plumbing equipment.
PVC pipes are a practical and cost-effective option for numerous household and commercial plumbing applications. Depending on the purpose, several sizes and lengths are typically employed. For instance, a 3-inch PVC pipe may be used for a drain line, whereas a 4-inch PVC pipe may be used for a water supply line. PVC pipes can be joined with other pipeline materials, such as copper, to build a comprehensive plumbing system.
2. Polyethylene Pipes (PE)
Thermoplastic polyethylene (PE) pipes are synthetic. Because of their low cost, durability, and installation convenience, they are often used in plumbing. PE pipes can be used in various plumbing applications due to their size and pressure ratings.
PE pipes carry potable water, wastewater, and drainage in residential and commercial applications. Service lines, water mains, irrigation systems, and home plumbing systems use PE pipes for potable water. Sprinkler systems, garden hoses, and swimming pool equipment utilize them above ground.
PE pipes are utilized for surface drainage, downspouts, and French drains. These flexible, easy-to-install pipes are popular for drainage applications. PE pipes are a reliable and affordable plumbing option. They come in various diameters and pressure levels, making them appropriate for many applications.
3. PEX Pipes
Flexible plumbing pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) are used. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) fittings and connections connect them. PEX pipes are flexible, resilient, and easier to install than copper or other metal piping, making them excellent for home and commercial plumbing applications.
PEX pipes are utilized for hot and cold-water supply lines, radiant floor heating systems, and potable water distribution. They can replace copper piping in irrigation systems and other applications.
PEX pipes can supply a home’s hot and cold water. Flexible pipes may run through walls, floors, and ceilings, making it easy to install a new plumbing system without cutting into the drywall. Radiant floor heating with PEX pipes is possible. They are flexible, run through floor joists, and connected to a boiler or other water heating systems.
4. PB Pipes
Polybutylene (PB) pipes are used in plumbing. They’re lightweight and flexible, making them easy to install and popular in residential and commercial buildings. PB Pipes are grey or black and vary in length and size. Since they’re cheaper and easier to install, they commonly replace copper piping.
PB Pipes connect water supply, drainage, and sprinkler systems. As they connect water heaters, toilets, and other fixtures. They can also connect washing machines and dishwashers to the plumbing system.
A plumber might utilize PB Pipes to connect a water heater to the main water supply. They may connect a dishwasher to the drain line with them. PB Pipes can also connect Sprinkler systems to the main water supply.
5. ABS Pipes
Residential and commercial plumbing systems use ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) pipes. ABS pipes are lightweight, resilient, and affordable compared to metal pipes. They’re straightforward to install and resistant to corrosion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
Sink drains and bathroom waste lines employ ABS pipes. ABS pipes are used for above- and below-ground plumbing. They’re utilized for venting, water distribution, and more.
ABS pipes, which can tolerate high temperatures and corrosion, are utilized for hot water lines. It is employed for sink drains because they’re lightweight and quick to install. ABS pipes are utilized for underground plumbing because they are sturdy and corrosion-resistant. Lightweight and robust ABS pipes are utilized in rainwater collection systems.
Read More: Rapid Prototype ABS Material
Final Words
Summarizing the whole blog, we have understood multiple things related to the pipes that can be used for plumbing. PVC pipes are the most prevalent plumbing pipes. They’re light, easy to install, and cheap compared to other pipes. On the other hand, ABS pipes are easy to install and more robust than PVC pipes. PEX pipes are better for tight locations because they’re flexible and corrosion-resistant. Polyethylene pipes have a long lifespan but are more likely to burst. Finally, PPR pipes can withstand high temperatures and corrosion, making them ideal for hot water applications.
No matter which plastic pipe you choose, your plumbing project’s needs must be considered. The right pipe can save you time and money and make your plumbing last longer. With the correct expertise and resources, you can easily choose the ideal plastic pipe for your project.
