PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes are widely used in construction, drainage, water supply, HVAC and other fields. Due to their excellent corrosion resistance, light weight and low cost, they have become the preferred material in many engineering projects. When using PVC pipes, it is very important to understand their size standards, because this directly affects the installation, connection and use of the pipe system. This article will introduce the PVC pipe dimensions metric standard and application precautions in detail.
PVC pipe dimensions metric standard
The PVC pipe dimensions metric standard is mainly defined based on the outer diameter (OD), wall thickness (WT) and inner diameter (ID) of the pipe. Depending on the application field and needs, the size standards of PVC pipes vary. Common size systems around the world include ISO (International Organization for Standardization) standards, DIN (German Industrial Standards) standards and JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) standards.
Outer diameter and inner diameter
The outer diameter of a PVC pipe refers to the diameter of the outside of the pipe, while the inner diameter is the diameter of the inside of the pipe. Generally speaking, the larger the outer diameter, the larger the inner diameter, but the increase in the inner diameter depends on the wall thickness of the pipe. In metric units, the outer diameter is usually expressed in millimeters (mm), while the measurement of the inner diameter depends on the calculation of the wall thickness.
Common PVC pipe dimensions metric are:
| Pipe outer diameter（mm） | Inner diameter（mm） | Wall thickness（mm） | use |
| 20 | 16 | 2 | Small water supply pipes and drainage pipes |
| 25 | 20 | 2.5 | Water pipes, drainage pipes |
| 32 | 26 | 3 | Small water treatment and drainage |
| 40 | 32 | 4 | Household water supply and drainage |
| 50 | 40 | 4.5 | Medium Duct System |
| 63 | 50 | 5 | Medium-sized water supply and drainage |
| 75 | 63 | 6 | Larger pipe systems |
| 110 | 100 | 5 | Mainly used for drainage and sewage pipes |
The outer diameter of the pipe is usually related to the matching of the connectors. Pipes with larger outer diameters need to match the corresponding connectors, and the inner diameter determines the flow and delivery capacity of the pipe.
Wall thickness and pressure rating
The wall thickness of the PVC pipe determines the pressure resistance of the pipe. Generally, the thicker the wall, the higher the pressure the pipe can withstand. The wall thickness standard is divided according to the application field and pressure rating of the pipe. Common pressure ratings include:
1. Low-pressure pipes: usually suitable for household water supply or drainage systems, with a pressure rating between 0.6MPa and 1.0MPa.
2. Medium-pressure pipes: mainly used in industrial or large-scale construction projects, with a pressure rating of 1.25MPa to 1.6MPa.
3. High-pressure pipes: used in situations where higher pressures are required, such as fire sprinkler systems or high-pressure water supply systems, with a pressure rating of usually above 2.5MPa.
Different PVC pipe pressure ratings will have different wall thicknesses and sizes. Choosing the right pipe specifications is essential to ensure the safety and stability of the system.
Standards and types
PVC pipe sizes and standards vary around the world, but most countries and regions have PVC pipe sizes that conform to certain international standards, such as ISO standards or domestic standards. For example, ISO 1452 is a global standard that covers PVC pipe sizes for different pressure levels, and DIN 8062 applies to PVC pipe products for the German market. Understanding these standards can ensure the compatibility and applicability of the pipes.
Application areas
PVC pipes are widely used in many fields because of their corrosion resistance, oxidation resistance and easy installation.
1. Water supply and drainage system
The most common application of PVC pipes is in water supply and drainage systems. In homes, commercial buildings and industrial facilities, PVC pipes are used as pipes for water supply, sewage treatment, stormwater drainage and other systems. The corrosion resistance of PVC pipes gives them significant advantages when discharging sewage or chemicals, ensuring long-term and stable operation.
2. Power and communication cable protection
In the power and communications industries, PVC pipes are often used for cable protection. PVC pipes have good insulation properties and can effectively protect cables from damage from the external environment, such as moisture, mechanical pressure, etc. Depending on the specification and use of the cable, the outer diameter and wall thickness of the PVC pipe can be selected as needed.
3. Agricultural irrigation and horticulture
PVC pipes are also widely used in agricultural irrigation systems, especially drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation systems. PVC pipes are lightweight, easy to install and long-lasting, and play an important role in irrigation.
4. Chemical industry
PVC pipes are also widely used in the chemical industry, especially when transporting chemicals and acid-base liquids. PVC pipes can effectively avoid corrosion and ensure the safety and stability of the production process.
Connection methods
There are many ways to connect PVC pipes. Common connection methods include:
1. Adhesive connection: Use special PVC glue to connect the pipes, which is suitable for small and medium-sized pipes.
2. Hot melt connection: Heat the connector and the pipe surface to melt them and then connect them, which is suitable for large-diameter pipes.
3. Threaded connection: Used for pipe systems that require frequent disassembly and maintenance.
Different connection methods require the size and specifications of the pipes and connectors to match, so when choosing a connection method, it must be determined according to the actual installation requirements.
PVC pipes have become an indispensable material in modern engineering due to their diverse size specifications, excellent physical properties and wide application fields. In the design and construction process, understanding the PVC pipe dimensions metric standard, selecting the appropriate pipe specifications and reasonable connection methods are crucial to ensure the safety, stability and long-term use of the pipeline system. With the development of science and technology and changes in market demand, the size standards of PVC pipes are also constantly improving. Engineers and construction personnel should pay attention to these standards in order to make the best choices and decisions.
