Comparison of HDPE and PVC Pipes Their Differences and Similarities

Comparison of HDPE and PVC Pipes: Their Differences and Similarities

Introduction In industry, agriculture, and residential complexes, plastic pipes are widely employed.

With so many possibilities available in plastic pipes, HDPE and PVC pipes are the most popular. Thermoplastics are classified as amorphous or semi-crystalline depending on their structure. PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is amorphous, and HDPE (high density polyethylene), which is semi-crystalline, are two of these. Both are industrial polymers.

Similarities of HDPE Pipes & PVC Pipes Before we dive into the differences, let’s peep into their similarities.

1.HDPE and PVC pipes are plastic pipes.

2.They are lightweight.

3.Resistant to corrosion and bacteria build-up.

4.Durable than metal pipes

Differences in Plastic Pipes • Difference in Durability The difference in the durability of both of these pipes are, PVC pipes have a lower elongation at break, it has 50-80% value when put in condition at AS 1175 Tensometer at constant strain rate cf: PE 600-900.

Whereas, the elongation at break of HDPE pipe is greater than 600% at the same condition. This provides long-term strength and creeps resistance to HDPE pipes compared to PVC pipes.

Another factor that influences the durability of the pipes is the tensile strength. The HDPE pipes are made from hydrocarbon polymer which has better tensile strength than polyvinyl chloride.

• Temperature Resistance The pipes are tested at 20-23 degrees Celsius, which is the standard temperature. The heat defection temperature of HDPE pipe is 0.5MPa. This means that as the temperature changes, the pipe expands at a slower rate.The heat deflection of the PVC pipe, on the other hand, is 0.7MPa. When compared to HDPE pipes, this means that PVC pipes expand at a faster rate due to temperature changes.

• Application PVC pipes and HDPE pipes appear similar, but they serve different purposes. PVC pipes are classified into two types: rigid and flexible. Flexible PVC pipes are used for electrical cable insulation, whereas rigid PVC pipes are used for residential water plumbing, fluid transportation in sewers, and underground casing in bore wells. The manufacturer of HDPE pipes ensures that the pipes are bendable and suitable for both high and low pressure, which is why these pipes are commonly used in industries, irrigation applications, and sewers. AC ventilation also makes use of HDPE pipes.

• Irrigation PVC casing pipes are commonly used for underground borewells and water transportation to crop fields.

Because PVC pipes are not UV resistant, they are typically installed underground. HDPE pipes are not used as casing pipes because they are difficult to join inside the borewell. Because these pipes require heat fusion butt joining prior to installation, PVC pipe fittings are the better choice for underground borewell water transportation.

Conclusion I've provided you enough information to make an informed decision about which one is superior. Both pipes have their fair share of advantages and disadvantages, which resulted in the differences between the pipes. However, for industrial purposes, I recommend HDPE pipes, which you can directly buy from an HDPE pipe manufacturer or supplier, as these pipes can withstand low or high pressure, whereas PVC pipe fittings are better for residential uses.

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