PVC Pressure Pipe Fittings Specifications

In this video, we will be looking at PVC Pressure Pipe Fittings. These fittings are well known for their excellent chemical and corrosion resistance, durability, and cost-effectiveness. Common applications include water reticulation, irrigation, waste disposal, swimming pools, water treatment, and chemical handling systems.
Let’s look at their mains specifications.
•Waterworks stocks these fittings in a variety of sizes, ranging from 15mm to 300mm.
•A majority of the fittings are white, matching Series 1 PVC pressure pipe, however some of the larger fittings are dark grey due to the origin of where these fittings are manufactured.
•PVC pressure fittings are ideally suited for an operating temperature between 4°C and 40°C. However, they can handle temperature spikes up to 60°C. Also keep in mind, as temperatures rise thermal expansion will increase and bracket spacing will need to be reduced.
•PVC Pressure fittings are pressure rated up to PN18 however this will vary depending on the size and fitting configuration. The pressure rating must be de-rated if the fittings are to be used at elevated temperatures above 20°C.
•All threaded fittings in the Series 1 PVC fitting range have BSP threads. This differs from Sch.80 PVC which typically have NPT threads.
•The PVC, socket unions, compression couplings, Slip Fix Repair Couplings and Gibault Couplings all have EPDM seals.
•It is often thought that the ‘u’ in ‘uPVC’ standards for UV resistance. In fact, this stands for Unplasticised Poly Vinyl Chloride. PVC is not regarded as being UV resistant and therefore may be subject to some deterioration overtime when exposed to UV radiation. A couple of ways you can protect against deterioration from UV include insulating the pipework or painting the pipework with a light-coloured acrylic paint which is chemically compatible with PVC.
•These fittings have a tapered socket design. This is to create what is known as an interference fit. This means, when you insert the pipe into the fitting, it will tighten up before the pipe reaches the end of the socket. A correctly installed solvent cement joint will create a very strong connection
•We often get asked, why are some PVC fittings thinner than others? Does this mean they are weaker? The answer is no, they aren’t weaker. The key difference is, some manufacturers put more material in the high stress points on the fitting and less in the low stress points. For example, on an 90° elbow, the high stress point is on the inner corner so a manufacturer will put more material in these points to give the fitting strength where it is most needed. At the socket end, with a properly fused join you have the thickness of the pipe and the fitting giving strength at this point.
•As with any pipe system, it is important to control hydraulic shock, also known as water hammer, as this is a common cause of damage to PVC Pressure Pipe fittings. This occurs when there is a sudden change in water flow, creating pressure surges and shockwaves throughout the system. To control hydraulic shock, we recommend maintaining a maximum velocity of up to 5 metres per second, utilise pump start up and shutdown control equipment, and regulate valve opening and shutting speeds.
Thanks for watching, for more information please visit www.waterworksnz.co.nz .