The Strongest PVC Pipe: Schedule 40 vs 80

Which PVC pipe is strongest?

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes provide the optimal performance, versatility, durability, and affordability for your plumbing and ventilation needs. However, you could feel perplexed by the numerous numbers and sizes as you go down the pipe aisle at your neighborhood hardware store. Fortunately, learning about the various PVC pipe kinds and sizes only takes a little while.For more information on PVC Pipes, read our explanation in 500 words.

Schedule 40 vs Schedule 80

You might have come upon the word “schedule” while looking for PVC. Schedule has nothing to do with time, despite its misleading name. The schedule of a PVC pipe depends on the thickness of its walls. You may be aware that schedule 80 pipe costs a little more than schedule 40.

Schedule 80 pipe has thicker walls despite having the same exterior diameter as schedule 40 pipe. This pipe measurement standard was developed in response to the requirement for an international terminology for PVC. Due to the fact that various wall thicknesses are advantageous in various circumstances, the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) developed the schedule 40 and 80 system to categorize the two popular varieties.

Water Pressure

PVC in schedules 40 and 80 are both frequently utilized worldwide. Every one has advantages in various applications. Due to its thinner walls, schedule 40 pipe is ideal for uses with relatively low water pressure.

The walls of schedule 80 pipe are thicker and can bear greater PSI (pounds per square inch). It is hence perfect for chemical and industrial applications. To illustrate the size difference, 1″ schedule 40 PVC pipe has a minimum wall thickness of.133″ and 450 PSI, whereas schedule 80 has a minimum wall thickness of.179″ and 630 PSI.

Sizing & Diameter

Schedule 80 and schedule 40 PVC pipe share the same outer diameter, as was previously mentioned. Due to schedule 80’s greater wall thickness being on the interior of the pipe, this is possible. Even while schedule 80 pipe may have a comparable schedule 40 pipe’s pipe diameter, it will therefore have a little more constrained flow. This proves that schedule 40 and schedule 80 pipe can be used in combination if necessary.

Just make sure the lower pressure handling schedule 40 parts can handle the pressure demands of your application. Since your pipe line is only as strong as its weakest joint or component, even one schedule 40 part utilized in a schedule 80 line with higher pressure might result in significant harm.

Which type do I need?

What schedule PVC do you therefore require? Schedule 40 PVC is most likely the best option if you intend to embark on a home improvement or irrigation project. Even schedule 40 PVC can withstand impressive pressure, making it more than sufficient for any purpose in the home.

Sticking with schedule 40 will also help you save some money, particularly if you want to use large diameter parts. Use schedule 80 if your employment will mostly include working with chemicals or in an industrial setting. Thicker walls are essential since these applications are likely to subject the material to greater strain and stress.

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