Differences And Similarities Between UPVC And CPVC

A PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a synthetic polymer that is widely made and utilised. Plasticizers are added to PVC during production to make it more flexible to bend easily. However, uPVCs (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) are made without plasticizers to make them hard and durable. CPVCs, also known as Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride, are formed when chlorine is processed via free-radical chlorination.

To better understand the materials and their differences and similarities, let's begin with the definition of both pipe materials.

What Is UPVC?

Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) is an unplasticized PVC that has been removed from its plasticizer, making it hard. It's also chemically resistant to a variety of substances. uPVC is a durable, sinewy, translucent, and long-lasting material resistant to elements, moisture, and different chemicals. It also has good electrical qualities and isn't very explosive.

uPVC pipes and fittings are widely utilised around the world. These pipes are stiffer and less flexible. Moreover, they are highly durable, have great strength properties, and are recyclable.

What Is CPVC?

The chlorination of PVC polymer produces Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC). It gains several special features due to chlorination, such as elasticity and the capacity to tolerate severe temperatures. In addition, it has good chemical resistance, particularly to acids, alkalis, and salts, because of its chlorine concentration and is thus suited for the chemical industries.

CPVC pipes are noted for their physical/chemical degradation resistance, resulting in longer service life.

Difference Between UPVC and CPVC

Manufacturing Process

Polyvinyl chloride is made from petroleum or natural gas and salt processing. The chlorine used in PVC production is isolated from table salt (50 percent of the weight of PVC is from salts). The molecule (NaClstring)'s molecular processes are divided, yielding Na + and Cl-ions. Cl- ions are generated by combining with ethylene or acetylene to form a vinyl chloride monomer.

The vinyl chloride monomer is compressed and poured into a polymerization reactor with water and catalysts to aid the thermal polymerization reaction. This chemical process produces polyvinyl chloride. PVC without plasticizers is referred to as uPVC. CPVC is a thermoplastic substance made from chlorinated polyvinyl chloride.

Mechanical Features

UPVC is a robust, tough, transparent, and long-lasting material. It has a lot of strength and speed. CPVC is a more adaptable material. The mechanical properties of CPVC at room temperature are fairly comparable to those of uPVC. CPVC is also a material with excellent mechanical properties. In the case of CPVC, these properties are maintained at greater temperatures.

Chemical Features

It possesses good acid, basic, and salt resistance and great weathering resistance.Chemically reactive and corrosive fluids are not a problem for uPVC. Aromatic or chlorinated solvents, ketones, and esters are not resistant. It has low combustibility and is non-conductive. CPVC has the same properties as PVC, except it can withstand greater temperatures. uPVC has a good temperature resistance of roughly 65°C, while CPVC has around 95°C.

Application Process

Because of its low-maintenance qualities, uPVC is widely employed in the construction industry. It's also used in the chemical industry, shipbuilding, and other industries as a non-drinkable supply and drainage water system. Water-plumbing can also be done with CPVC.

Similarities Between UPVC and CPVC

Special Installation: Both uPVC and CPVC pipe fittings do not require special installation. Beginners can do it themself by following the manual.

Chlorine Effects: uPVC and CPVC do not react to chlorine and thus, are reliable options to deliver potable water in different places in India.

Scaling: Both uPVC and CPVC have a smooth surface, and thus, no scaling occurs within the pipes.

Flow Rate: UPVC has a Hazen-Williams' C' factor of 150, while CPVC has a Hazen-Williams' C' value of 100. As a result, the flow rate is extremely high and undisturbed in both pipes.

UV Effects: UV stability is one of the best features of uPVC. However, UV stability is better in CPVC. As a result, neither temperature nor pressure bearing capabilities are affected.

Repairability: uPVC and CPVC are simple to fix and don't require special tools.

Chemical Resistant: Acid and alkali resistance is strong in uPVC. However, it is stronger in CPVC. Therefore, CPVC is also favoured as a piping material for industrial use due to its remarkable chemical resistance qualities.

System Simplicity: UPVC is acceptable for use below 60 degrees Celsius. CPVC can be utilised for both hot and cold water and chemical transmission. It can withstand temperatures of up to 93 degrees Celsius.

Now you know what the differences and similarities between uPVC and CPVC are. Both UPVC and CPVC fittings have distinct features that make them alike. However, they also have certain characteristics in common. If you have read thoroughly by now, you know which features are common between the two. Therefore, you can analyse the similarities and differences before choosing the one that best caters to your different plumbing requirements.