Why Choose uPVC Pipes Over Metal Pipes?

While planning a plumbing project, the choice of piping solutions plays a crucial role. You must evaluate the various types of pipes to make informed decisions. Earlier, we used metal pipes, such as galvanised iron pipes and steel pipes. These were unfavourable due to corrosion, scaling, and poisoning.

Over a few decades, UPVC pipes have emerged as a cost-effective and durable choice for plumbing projects. UPVC stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, a type of piping made from PVC plastic. It is becoming an increasingly popular choice for water and wastewater systems over traditional materials like metal and concrete. UPVC pipes are made from PVC resin, which is combined with other chemicals to create a strong and durable material. They are an excellent choice because they are resistant to corrosion, chemical damage, and weathering. Let us discuss the features that make Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride pipes superior to metal pipes in detail:

1. Corrosion-resistance

One of the major drawbacks of using metal pipes is that they deteriorate due to corrosion. This leads to leaks and affects the water quality. Unlike metal pipes, UPVC pipes are extremely durable. They can last for several decades with proper maintenance if they are installed as per the engineer’s standard pipeline installation and jointing procedures. This makes UPVC pipes an excellent choice for long-term projects. They are also resistant to corrosion, chemical damage, and weathering, which means they will not rust, rot, or degrade over time.

2. Made from non-toxic materials

Lead, galvanised steel, cast iron, and asbestos-cement piping materials are known to cause health risks. UPVC pipes, on the other hand, are made from PVC resin, which is a non-toxic material. They are an excellent choice for potable water applications. Since it is non-toxic, it will not leach chemicals into the water supply. UPVC pipes for water supply are also FDA-approved for use in food and beverage applications. They are an excellent choice for piping in restaurants, hospitals, and other food service applications. They are also 100% lead-free, making them safe for transporting drinking water for your family.

3. Easy installation

UPVC pipes and fittings are easy to install because they are lightweight and can be cut to fit any application. They can also be joined using solvent cement or threaded fittings, making them an excellent choice for do-it-yourself and professional plumbing projects.

4. Low maintenance

UPVC pipes require minimal maintenance and are easy to clean. This feature makes them an excellent choice for piping in hard-to-reach places. They are also resistant to scale build-up, unlike other types of piping materials. Their inherent resistance to degradation means less time and money spent on treatments, coatings, or repairs.

5. Cost-effectiveness

UPVC plumbing pipes are cost-effective, easy to install, and require minimal maintenance. This piping material is environmentally friendly and can be recycled. This characteristic makes UPVC an excellent choice for sustainable projects. Since they are resistant to rust, scaling, and corrosion, they do not require costly treatments and save on upkeep over time.

6. Leak-resistant

UPVC pipes are ideal for water supply, as they are extremely leak-resistant because they are made from a single piece of material. They are an excellent choice for high-pressure applications and are less likely to burst in freezing temperatures.

7. Promotes smooth flow of liquid

UPVC pipes have a smooth inner surface, which reduces friction and increases flow. They are an excellent choice for piping applications that require high water volume, with a mirror-smooth inner surface, which significantly minimises friction as water or other fluids pass through. This results in greater flow rates and reduced energy consumption for pumping.

8. Acid-resistant

UPVC pipes are resistant to acid, alkali, and salt damage, making them an excellent choice for chemical processing applications. Meanwhile, metal pipes corrode when acidic or hard water passes through them, resulting in leaks, blockages, and failure. They also react with many chemicals, compromising the quality of the pipe and fluid being transported.

UPVC Pipes: Installation and Maintenance

UPVC fittings are environmentally friendly and recyclable. To install them, you need a hacksaw, measuring tape, solvent cement, and pipe cutters. First, measure the length of the pipe you need and mark it with a marker. Use a hacksaw to cut it to size. Apply solvent cement to the ends of the pipe and fit them together using PVC couplings or elbow joints.

For higher diameter pipes, apply a primer before solvent cement. Finally, allow the solvent cement joint to be set for at least 24 hours before using the pipe. To maintain UPVC pipes and fittings, you need to clean them with soap and water and use a stiff brush to remove any buildup.

Conclusion

Metal pipes like steel or copper are non-combustible but can heat up and potentially cause fire to spread through walls and ceilings. They lack the inherent flame-retardant properties. Meanwhile, UPVC pipes are an excellent choice for piping projects, as they are easy to install and require minimal maintenance. This material is environmentally friendly and can be used for many decades.

Trubore Pipes offers a wide range of UPVC pipes and fittings varying by pressure capacity to suit agricultural, irrigation, water lines, plumbing, and sanitation requirements. Their self-extinguishing and corrosion-resistant properties ensure a constant water supply for a lifetime.