PVC pipe metric sizes

February 17, 2025

PVC pipes (polyvinyl chloride pipes) are widely used in many fields such as construction, drainage, water supply, ventilation, etc. They are widely used because of their corrosion resistance, lightness, and easy installation. In the international market, the sizes of PVC pipes are usually expressed in metric units (mm). Understanding PVC pipe metric sizes is crucial to choosing the right pipe, especially when it comes to water pipes, drainage systems, air ventilation systems, etc., accurate selection of sizes can ensure the normal operation of the system.

 PVC pipe metric sizes

PVC pipe metric sizes standard

PVC pipe metric sizes are usually classified according to the outer diameter (OD) and wall thickness of the pipe. There are two main pipe size standards: one is based on the outer diameter as the standard, and the other is based on the inner diameter as the standard. Different application scenarios require the selection of appropriate sizes. Common sizes are:

1. Outer diameter size: The outer diameter (OD) of PVC pipe is the most common way of expression, especially in the selection of pipe connections and accessories. Common outer diameter sizes range from 20mm to 315mm.

2. Inner diameter size: Although the outer diameter size is more common, the inner diameter size (ID) is also used in some specific applications, especially in liquid transportation or when more precise flow control is required.

 PVC pipe

Common Metric Size Table

The following is a table of some common sizes for PVC pipes, covering the most commonly used outer and inner diameter ranges, suitable for general water pipes, drain pipes, vent pipes and other applications:

Outside diameter(mm)

Inner diameter(mm)

Wall thickness(mm)

Scope of application

20

16

2.0

Small drainage and water supply system

25

21

2.0

Small pipe and sprinkler systems

32

26

3.0

Household water pipes and drainage pipes

40

34

3.0

Small and medium-sized drainage and irrigation pipes

50

44

3.0

Household drainage and exhaust pipes

63

57

3.0

Medium-sized drainage and water supply pipes

75

69

3.0

Water supply system, drainage pipe

90

84

3.0

Medium-sized drainage and sewage pipes

110

104

3.0

Drainage and sewage pipes

160

150

5.0

Large drainage, building external water supply

200

188

6.0

Municipal water supply, sewage treatment

250

238

7.0

Large drainage and sewage pipes

315

303

8.0

Industrial pipes, large drainage systems

 

 

Selection of PVC pipe metric sizes

1. Flow demand: Select the appropriate inner diameter of the pipe according to the flow rate of the fluid in the system. Too small a diameter may lead to too fast flow rate and increased pressure, while too large a diameter wastes resources and increases costs.

2. Pipe length: In a longer pipe system, a larger pipe diameter can reduce friction loss and pressure loss, thereby improving the overall efficiency of the system.

3. Pressure rating: Pressure rating for pvc pipe will also affect the size selection. High-pressure systems require thicker-walled pipes, while low-pressure systems can choose thinner-walled pipes.

4. Installation space: The outer diameter of the pipe and the size of the installation space also need to be considered. For example, indoor pipes may require a smaller pipe diameter, while underground or outdoor pipes require a larger size to cope with pressure and flow requirements.

 PVC pipe

Application

1. Household water supply and drainage: Common sizes include 20mm, 25mm, 32mm, 40mm, etc., which are suitable for water pipes, drain pipes and other small pipe systems in the home.

2. Industry and agriculture: Large diameter PVC pipes (such as 63mm to 315mm) are widely used in industrial and agricultural irrigation, drainage and wastewater treatment systems.

3. Municipal engineering: Municipal water supply and sewage treatment systems usually use Big diameter PVC pipes, common sizes are 110mm, 160mm, 200mm, 250mm, etc.

4. Power and communication: Some PVC pipes are also used for the installation of power, cable protection pipes and communication lines, common sizes are 20mm, 25mm, etc.

 PVC pipe

PVC pipe size and fittings matching

The size of PVC pipe is not just a simple choice of outer diameter and inner diameter, but also considers the matching of pipe fittings (such as elbows, joints, tees, etc.). The size of the pipe fittings is usually consistent with the outer diameter of the pipe, so when purchasing pipe fittings, choose the corresponding accessories according to the actual pipe size.

 

PVC pipe metric sizes are key parameters in the design and construction of pipeline systems. Accurately selecting the size of the pipe can not only ensure the smooth flow of the fluid, but also effectively reduce the installation and maintenance costs. In actual applications, it is recommended to select the appropriate PVC pipe size based on specific usage requirements, flow requirements, pressure levels and other factors, combined with pipe length and installation environment. I hope this article can help you better understand the size standards of PVC pipes and make appropriate choices. If you have other questions, please feel free to consult.


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