PVC-U Pressure Pipe Technology from Vinidex

PVC pressure pipes are manufactured from PVC resin compounded with stabilisers, lubricants and pigments. They do not contain any plasticisers and hence are known as un-plasticised PVC or PVC-U. PVC-U pipes have been used for pressure applications in Australia since the 1960s, but have a much longer service history elsewhere in the world. Over this time, industry has recognised the many benefits of PVC for pressure pipes: material stability, corrosion resistance, high strength to weight ratio, ease of handling and installation, and excellent flow characteristics.

The PVC-U large bore fittings range offered by Vinidex is a complete assortment of fittings for solvent cement jointing, and suitable for use in pressure applications such as irrigation, and the construction of process or service lines to convey industrial fluids. The maximum operating temperature of PVC-U is 60°C. The fittings are compatible with Series 1 PVC-U pressure pipes manufactured to AS/NZS 1477 and Series 1 PVC-M pressure pipes manufactured to AS/NZS 4765. The fittings range is produced using PVC-U resins compliant with the standards EN ISO 1452 and ISO 4422 and in observance of the requirements of DIN 8063 and EN ISO 15493 for the use of plastic pipes in industrial processes. FIP PVC-U fittings are suitable for naval applications and classified according to Bureau Veritas.

Further developments in PVC pressure pipe technology has led to the introduction of Oriented PVC and Modified PVC pressure pipes.

Vinidex Supermain® Oriented PVC pressure pipe is the most advanced PVC pipe available. Bi-axial molecular orientation further enhances the mechanical properties of PVC, allowing energy efficient production whilst also conferring considerable performance advantages. The result is a lighter weight pipe with an increased bore for greater flow capacity when compared with other PVC pipes. Orientation also results in improved impact resistance, greater ductility and high fatigue strength.

Vinidex Hydro® is a Modified Poly Vinyl Chloride or PVC-M pipe which extends the proven benefits of PVC pipes with enhancements in fracture behaviour and hydraulic efficiency the addition of an impact modifier to the PVC formulation to increase the toughness and ductility of the material.