PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes are widely used in many fields such as construction, water conservancy, agriculture, etc. due to their excellent chemical stability, corrosion resistance, durability and economy. They play an important role in water supply pipeline systems. The size selection of PVC pipes is crucial to the flow capacity, construction efficiency and long-term stable operation of the pipeline system. This article will introduce in detail What size pvc pipe for water line, selection principles and related precautions to help you make scientific and reasonable decisions in water pipe construction.
PVC pipes for water pipes come in a variety of sizes and types, and are usually selected according to the purpose, pressure bearing capacity and installation environment of the pipes. The main specifications of PVC pipes include outer diameter, wall thickness, length, etc. The following is a detailed description of these specifications:
1. Outer diameter (DN)
The outer diameter of PVC pipes is usually expressed in nominal diameter (DN) in millimeters (mm). The outer diameter of PVC pipes ranges from small to large. Common sizes are:
Small pipes: 20mm, 25mm, 32mm, 40mm, 50mm
Medium pipes: 63mm, 75mm, 90mm, 110mm
Large pipes: 125mm, 150mm, 200mm, 250mm, 315mm
For household water pipe systems, 20mm, 25mm and 32mm PVC pipes are usually used, while industrial or large-scale water supply systems may use larger diameter pipes.
2. Wall thickness (t)
The wall thickness of PVC pipes directly affects the pressure bearing capacity and strength of the pipes. The thicker the wall thickness, the stronger the pressure resistance and durability of the pipes. Common PVC pipe wall thickness grades include:
S series: suitable for low pressure environments
C series: suitable for medium pressure environments
D series: suitable for high pressure environments
The wall thickness standard of PVC pipes is usually determined according to different nominal outer diameters (DN), and pipes with different wall thicknesses are suitable for different working pressures. For example, a 32mm pipe may have different wall thicknesses (such as 1.8mm, 2.0mm, etc.), and the choice of these thicknesses is closely related to the pressure level that the water pipe is subjected to.
3. Length
PVC pipes are usually sold in sections of a certain length, and the common lengths are 4 meters, 6 meters or 12 meters. Choosing pipes of different lengths can reduce the number of connection points and reduce the risk of water leakage.
Choosing the right PVC water pipe size is the key to ensuring the normal operation of the pipe system. According to factors such as the purpose of the pipe, the installation environment, and the water flow rate, the size of the PVC pipe should be comprehensively considered according to the following aspects:
1. Household water supply system
For the water supply system of a general household, the commonly used pipe sizes are 20mm, 25mm, 32mm, etc.
20mm pipe: suitable for small-scale water points at home, such as small water pipes in the kitchen and bathroom, or areas with small water supply flow.
25mm and 32mm pipes: suitable for larger-scale water supply needs, such as main water supply pipes and water pipe systems with multiple water points in parallel.
2. Commercial and industrial water systems
In commercial buildings or industrial water systems, the size of the water pipe is usually larger. Common sizes are 50mm, 63mm, 75mm, 110mm or even larger.
50mm and 63mm pipes: suitable for main water supply pipes in small and medium-sized commercial buildings, such as offices, shopping malls, etc.
110mm pipes and above: suitable for large commercial or industrial facilities, or for main water supply mains in urban pipe networks.
3. Water flow and water pressure
When selecting pipe size, water flow and water pressure also need to be considered. Pipes that are too small will limit water flow and lead to insufficient water pressure; oversize may lead to waste and additional costs. Therefore, a reasonable selection of pipe diameter can ensure the efficient operation of the water supply system.
4. Pipe installation environment
The installation environment is also an important factor in determining the size of the pipe. For environments that need to withstand greater pressure, pipes with thicker walls need to be selected; for most homes and commercial buildings, the standard wall thickness is sufficient. In addition, if the water pipe needs to be laid underground or pass through areas with dense traffic, the strength and pressure resistance of the pipe should be given more attention.
5. Future expansion
When designing a water pipe system, the possible future expansion needs of the water pipe should be taken into account. Appropriately selecting larger-sized pipes can not only meet current water needs, but also provide convenience for future expansion.
The pressure rating of PVC water pipes is usually directly related to the wall thickness of the pipe. The commonly used unit of pressure rating is MPa (megapascal), which indicates the maximum water pressure that the pipe can withstand. Common PVC pipe pressure ratings are:
1. PN6: Maximum working pressure 6 bar (0.6MPa), generally suitable for low-pressure water supply systems.
2. PN10: Maximum working pressure 10 bar (1.0MPa), suitable for common household and commercial water supply systems.
3. PN16: Maximum working pressure 16 bar (1.6MPa), suitable for high-pressure water supply systems, usually used in larger buildings or urban pipe networks.
The choice of pressure rating needs to consider the pressure requirements when the water pipe is running. Too low a pressure rating will cause the pipe to be unable to withstand the pressure fluctuations in the water flow, while too high a pressure rating will cause unnecessary costs.
After selecting the appropriate PVC pipe size, installation and maintenance are also very important. The following points need to be noted during installation:
1. Correct connection
PVC pipes are generally connected by plugs or glue. During installation, it is necessary to ensure that the pipes are tightly connected to prevent water leakage.
2. Avoid external pressure
PVC pipes should be protected from excessive external pressure during use, so during installation, ensure that the pipe path is unobstructed and avoid being compressed by heavy objects or other external damage.
3. Pipeline protection
For buried pipes, appropriate protection is required, such as filling sand around the pipes or adding a concrete protective layer to increase the pipe's pressure resistance and corrosion resistance.
4. Regular inspection
PVC water pipes are more durable, but during long-term use, it is still necessary to regularly check whether the pipes have aging, cracks and other problems to ensure the normal operation of the pipe system.
PVC pipes are widely used in household, commercial and industrial water pipe systems due to their excellent performance and relatively low cost. According to different water demand, pressure requirements and installation environment, the size of PVC pipes should be reasonably matched. Generally, household water pipes mostly use PVC pipes with a diameter of 20mm to 32mm, while commercial and industrial water pipes may require larger pipes. Reasonable selection of PVC pipe size can not only ensure the smooth flow of water, but also improve the service life and safety of the pipes. During installation, the specifications should be followed and the piping system should be checked regularly to ensure the stable operation of the water supply system.
