PVC, CPVC and HDPE are three of the most common plastic pipe materials in industrial fluid handling. Each has strengths and limits, and the right choice depends on operating temperature, pressure, the chemicals in the line and where the pipe will be installed.
Alsco Industrial has supplied thermoplastic piping components since 1983. This guide compares the three materials so you can narrow down the right pipe for your system.
The Three Pipe Materials
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC is the most widely used thermoplastic pipe for ambient-temperature fluid handling. It resists corrosion, joins with solvent cement, and has a maximum service temperature of 140°F. Published pressure ratings apply at 73°F and must be reduced as temperature rises.
Common uses: chemical processing, aquaculture, water and wastewater treatment, potable water, agriculture, irrigation and plating.
Shop PVC pipe and solvent cement and primer.
CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride)
CPVC is PVC that has been further chlorinated, which raises its temperature limit. It remains serviceable up to 200°F with appropriate pressure derating. Like PVC, it joins with solvent cement, but the cement must be rated for CPVC.
Common uses: hot water and hot process lines, chemical processing at elevated temperatures, and HVAC water service.
Shop CPVC pipe and solvent cement and primer.
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
HDPE is a flexible, impact-resistant plastic that absorbs ground movement and vibration. Its sections are joined by heat fusion rather than solvent cement.
Common uses: underground lines, mining, industrial fluid transport and chemical plants.
HDPE pipe is available by special order. Contact us for sizes and lead times. We also stock HDPE end connectors.
PVC vs. CPVC vs. HDPE: Key Differences
| Feature | PVC | CPVC | HDPE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max temp | 140°F | 200°F* | See mfr. data |
| Flexibility | Rigid | Rigid | Flexible |
| Impact | Moderate | Moderate | Very high |
| Joining | Cement | Cement | Fusion |
| Cost | Low | Medium | Med. to high |
*With pressure derating.
Chemical resistance depends on the specific chemical, its concentration and the operating temperature. Contact us for help choosing a material.
How to Choose the Right Pipe for Your Application
- Temperature. Up to 140°F, PVC is usually the economical choice. From 140°F up to 200°F, choose CPVC. Pressure ratings drop as temperature rises, so check the derating factors in our PVC and CPVC Pipe Technical Data guide.
- Chemicals. Confirm the pipe material is compatible with the chemical, its concentration and the operating temperature before choosing. Contact us if you need help.
- Pressure. Confirm the pipe's pressure rating at your operating temperature. Schedule 80 has a thicker wall and a higher pressure rating than Schedule 40 of the same size.
- Installation environment. HDPE's flexibility suits buried lines and areas with ground movement or vibration. PVC and CPVC are rigid and need support at regular intervals, and the support spacing decreases as temperature rises.
- Budget. PVC has the lowest material cost. CPVC costs more but is required where temperatures exceed PVC's limit.
Shop Plastic Pipe and Fittings
Alsco Industrial stocks Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC pipe and Schedule 80 CPVC pipe, along with the fittings, valves and solvent cement to complete your system.
Not sure which material fits your application? Contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between PVC and CPVC?
A: CPVC is chlorinated PVC with a higher temperature limit: up to 200°F with pressure derating, compared with 140°F for PVC. PVC costs less and is the standard for ambient-temperature lines.
Q: Can I use PVC cement on CPVC pipe?
A: Use a cement rated for CPVC. Some all-purpose cements are rated for both PVC and CPVC, so check the label.
Q: Is HDPE better than PVC?
A: It depends on the application. HDPE is flexible and impact resistant, which suits buried lines and ground movement. PVC is rigid, costs less, and joins with solvent cement instead of fusion equipment.
Q: Which pipe is best for chemical processing?
A: It depends on the chemical, its concentration and the temperature. Contact us before choosing a material.