Advantages of PVC Pipe and Electric Cable Coverings
PVC-based pipe, electric cable coverings and construction materials provide essential public services and support daily life. The embodied energy of alternatives such as copper, steel and aluminum is significantly higher.
Hazardous waste listing creates a complex web of regulatory burdens and liability that could deter repurposing, reselling, recycling or other circular pathways for this material. This directly conflicts with the nation’s zero waste goals and circular economy initiatives.
Inherently Fire Resistant
Unlike most other plastics that require fire retardant additives, PVC (unplasticised and rigid PVC or uPVC) is naturally flame resistant. The chlorine in PVC acts as a natural fire retardant and limits flame spread. This explains why uPVC is so often specified for building and construction applications where safety and security are paramount.
A key way to evaluate plastics for fire resistance is the Limiting Oxygen Index test. This is a highly repeatable and accurate method for measuring the ability of a material to support combustion. An LOI value above 21% is considered to have self-extinguishing characteristics. uPVC has a LOI of 22 or higher, significantly outperforming other materials like timber and PP that do not have a fire retardant additive.
In fact, PVC roofing membranes have passed both FM and UL fire testing. Watch a dramatic video of the results here. The PVC roof quickly self-extinguishes in seconds after the flame source is removed, while other materials continue to support combustion. This feature is M16 large head PVC important because it reduces the time that workers will be exposed to hazardous smoke and fumes.
High Impact Resistance
PVC has high impact resistance as it has a high modulus of elasticity which is between 1500-3,000 MPa. This allows it to resist cracking and distortion under load. In addition, rigid PVC is highly durable and long-lasting and can be used above ground and below ground. It is also resistant to vibration and anti-magnetic. It is easy to work with and provides good protection against corrosion and chemical attack. This is because rigid PVC has a low melting point, linear expansion coefficient and a high limiting oxygen index of up to 45 or more. It also has low heat distortion temperatures. Rigid PVC is available in bare galv, PVC coated galv and LSZH coated galv and is supplied in bulk coil sizes with fixed or swivel glands to suit the application.
Low Permeability
Unlike some other plastics, PVC does not readily absorb moisture. Its permeability is low compared to other metals and non-metals, making it an excellent choice for electrical conductors in wet environments. This is due to a combination of factors including the small linear expansion coefficient, low melting point, and limiting oxygen index (LOI) up to 45 or more. It is also heat stable, meaning it retains its physical properties even when exposed to high temperatures.
PVC hex nuts are also available in a range of coatings to suit different environments. The standard product is bare galv or PVC coated galv, and we can supply the full range in bulk coil sizes or contractor packs with fixed or swivel glands. We also provide a certificate of conformity for the products on request, confirming their manufacturing standard and material.
High Strength
PVC is a relatively strong material that can withstand a significant amount of pressure. Hex nuts are a common fastener type for general purpose applications; 6 sides provide a granularity of angles from which a wrench or other tool can approach and grip the nut (good in tight spots), and it takes only 1/6th of a rotation to obtain the next side (saves time). PVC also has good mechanical properties, with elastic modulus reaching 1500-3000 MPa.
PVC is stable under normal temperatures, but heat distortion can occur at higher temperatures if a stabilizer is not added to the manufacturing process. The melting point of traditional product PVC is around 140degF. Its linear expansion is small and the limiting oxygen index (LOI) is up to 45 or more.
Adaptability
The ability to adapt to various environments and applications makes PVC an incredibly versatile material. Its linear expansion coefficient is relatively small, and the waterproof connector manufacturer melting point is 212degF (60degC), although it can be made much lower by the addition of heat stabilizers. It also has good flame retardancy, with a low oxygen index, meaning that it is difficult to ignite.
PVC is readily available in a variety of forms, from simple hex nuts to more complex specialized fasteners like wing nuts and captive nuts. Hex nuts are popular because they are a general-purpose, six-sided fastener that can fit into holes of almost any size. Six sides provide a finer granularity of angles for a tool to approach, while the hex shape means that a wrench takes only 1/6th of a rotation to obtain the next side.