What is PVC Pipe & How is it Manufactured?

Arguably one of the most universal and adaptable types of plastic piping, PVC pipes have been in use for over 80 years, servicing an assembly of applications in different market sectors around the world. Compared to metal piping, PVC pipes are very strong and durable, with complete corrosion resistance and with little risk of caving to thermal expansion or contraction. Economical and robust, these pipes come in different sizes with a range of available fittings and can be used for both warm or cold water applications relying on the type of PVC variant.

How are PVC Pipes Made?

PVC pipes are simulated by the extrusion of raw material PVC, and typically follow the same steps as typical pipe extrusion operations: ● ● ● ● ●

Providing raw material pellets/powder into the PVC twin screw extruder Melting and heating in multiple extruder zones Extruding through a dice to shape into a pipe Cooling of the shaped pipe Cutting of PVC pipes to the desired length

However, despite retaining a similar manufacturing procedure to most plastic piping, PVC pipes have inherent characteristics that pose additional challenges to PVC pipe manufacturers both in terms of production, as well as placing their products on the market.

The Challenges of PVC Pipe Manufacturing Increased Extruder Friction Due to the nature of PVC plastic, PVC extruders are subjected to high amounts of conflict and stress. This means that to ensure a long service life, PVC pipe production lines need the use of specialized extruders that utilize a twin screw extruder arrangement, as well as featuring robust construction materials that can resist harsh PVC extruder operating conditions.

Differentiating From Competitors Since PVC piping is one of the most used kinds of piping, there is a lot of competition between manufacturers. It is therefore of vital importance for PVC pipe producers to distinguish themselves from their competitors, both in terms of delivering constant product quality, as well as presenting a wide range of products at competitive prices.

Such differentiation can only be gained through the use of world-class manufacturing equipment, that maximizes productivity while underestimating costs and has the capacity to produce a wide variety of PVC pipe sizes. DRTS offers a range of effective turnkey answers that guarantee this type of effective operation, such as gear with integrated Industry 4.0 functionality, advanced connectivity, ease of integration and multi-layer die heads that maximize conserving.

Providing A Comprehensive Product Range PVC pipes come in different sizes and diameters, and for each size exists a type of fittings. Therefore it is highly seductive for PVC pipe manufacturers to present the market with an exhaustive range of products. Ocean Polymers supports PVC pipe manufacturers with a wide variety of ready-made PVC pipe fittings, available in various kinds and sizes, helping you bring your products to market with a whole family of PVC piping products.