Choosing the Proper PVC Pipe & Fittings for the Job

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When your job requires PVC piping & fittings, it's important to identify the materials available at your disposal. PVC pipe fittings play an integral role when joining pipes to assist their operation, which means that buyers need to know their similarities (and differences) of each part so their system can work properly. So given the number of factors that can come into play when purchasing PVC fitting, we're going to walk you through the PVC piping process to save you time (and money) when tackling such a complex task.

PVC Sizing

When it comes to standard sizing, PVC fittings operate with a nominal system. The reason for this is so parts can be compatible with each other if the part is the same size. For example: Every 1" fitting will work with a 1" pipe. However, the OD (outer diameter) of the PVC pipe is bigger than its actual size, meaning that a 1" PVC pipe is going to have an outer diameter that is bigger than 1". So when looking at this sizing of fittings from a nominal size perspective, a 1" pipe will work with a 1" fitting, regardless if the piece is schedule 80 or 40. If a socket fitting possesses an opening greater than 1" across, it will have no problem fitting on a 1" pipe since the outer diameter is greater than 1" as well.

Another issue could arise if you plan on using non-PVC pipe with a PVC fitting. In situations as such, the nominal size isn't as important as the outer diameter of the pipe in use because the pipes and fitting will be compatible if the inner diameters remain the same. However, it should be mentioned that a 1" carbon steel pipe and a 1" PVC fitting may not operate properly since they do not operate with the same nominal size.

For additional information on sizing, view our detailed sizing and dimensions chart.

PVC Piping & Fittings Schedule 40 vs. 80

So if you happen to be a newbie to the PVC pipe fitting world, you'll notice a term called "schedule" will be thrown around quite often. Although you already have an established definition of the term, it doesn't carry the same meaning in the piping world. When it comes to PVC piping, this term schedule relates to the thickness of the pipe's walls. If you haven't caught on, this is the reason why Schedule 80 is a little more expensive than a comparable Schedule 40 pipe or fitting.

When it comes to outside diameter of both PVC fittings, they remain the same, with Schedule 80 Fittings utilizing thicker walls. When it comes to these pipe measuring standards, they were developed to adhere to a universal system that refers to PVC. With these different wall types being beneficial in certain situations, the ASTM created a schedule 40/80 system to classify both types.

The significant differences between these two fittings are:

Additional information on buying the right piping: schedule 40 vs. schedule 80.

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Schedule 80 & Schedule 40 Fitting Use

Since both types of fitting schedules have various uses, we're going to cover where each part shines given the scenario.

1.) Handling Water Pressure

When it comes to Schedule 40 or 80 PVC, both are used throughout the world. However, each has its own benefits. With schedule 40 PVC fittings, they're known to work best with applications utilizing low water pressure. With schedule 80 pipe fittings, they have thicker walls and can withstand higher levels of water pressure. This is the reason as to why schedule 80 PVC fittings are used for chemical and industrial applications.

2.) Diameter & Sizing

Sch 40 fittings and Sch 80 fittings carry the same outside diameter. This is mostly due to the fact that a schedule 80's additional wall thickness rests inside of the piping. Although a schedule 80 pipe might have a little more restriction to its flow, the parts can fit and operate together if needed. If you're installing Sch 40 parts into your piping system, it's important that the part will meet the needs of its application. Since your pipe line can only be as strong as the weakest joint or part, a Sch 40 part handling high pressure can cause serious damage to your system.

3.) Fitting Colors

Although such fittings can be found in many different colors, a schedule 80 fitting is oftentimes gray and schedule 40 fittings are usually white.

4.) Application

When it comes to the application of a schedule 80 PVC fitting or a schedule 40 PVC fitting, the decision rests on the type service it is going to provide. If you're attempting an irrigation or home repair project, a schedule 40 PVC might be the best choice. Schedule 80 is typically used in commercial or industrial applications that require higher ratings.

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