Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) are rigid thermoplastic materials widely utilized in various piping applications. The primary distinction lies in their chemical composition and subsequent performance characteristics. CPVC undergoes a chlorination process, resulting in a higher chlorine content compared to PVC. This modification significantly impacts the material’s ability to withstand elevated temperatures.
The importance of understanding the disparities between these materials stems from the need for appropriate selection in diverse operational environments. The increased temperature resistance of one material is a crucial factor in applications involving hot water distribution or industrial processes where higher fluid temperatures are anticipated. Selecting the incorrect material can lead to premature failure, resulting in costly repairs and potential safety hazards. Historically, PVC was developed earlier and served as the standard for many plumbing applications. However, the need for materials capable of handling higher temperatures spurred the development and adoption of its chlorinated counterpart.