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So you thought you knew about pipes?

PVC pipes are known for their durability, versatility, and affordability, making them a popular choice for many projects throughout the islands.

Whether you are a professional in the construction industry, or a gifted amateur and DIY buff, we often take commonly used materials for granted.  PVC piping is a classic example.  

Many who deal with plumbing know the pipe sizes, hot and cold, the glue and the fittings but not a lot else.  So we decided to clarify and define our three major PVC products which are industry standards and in use on almost every building site.

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Schedule 40 PVC piping
refers to a type of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipe that is commonly used in a variety of plumbing and construction applications.

The “schedule” in Schedule 40 PVC piping refers to the pipe’s wall thickness. There are different schedules available for PVC pipes, and each schedule has a specific wall thickness and pressure rating. The most commonly used schedule for PVC pipes is Schedule 40.

Here are the key characteristics of Schedule 40 PVC piping:

  • Wall thickness: Schedule 40 PVC pipes have a thicker wall compared to pipes of lower schedules, providing increased strength and durability. The thickness of the pipe wall allows it to handle higher pressure applications than lower schedule pipes.
  • Pressure rating: The pressure rating is typically expressed in pounds per square inch (psi) and indicates the maximum pressure the pipe can handle safely under standard conditions.

Applications:

  • Drainage and wastewater systems: Schedule 40 PVC pipes are used for carrying away waste and drainage in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

  • Water supply lines: They can be used for potable water supply lines, irrigation systems, and outdoor plumbing applications.

  • Underground applications: Schedule 40 PVC pipes are used for underground utilities, such as sewer lines and water mains.

  • Industrial processes: They find applications in various industrial processes where chemical resistance and durability are required.

  • Electrical conduits: Schedule 40 PVC pipes are used for protecting and routing electrical wires and cables.


Size range: Schedule 40 PVC pipes are available in various sizes: 1/2” / 3/4” / 1” / 1 1/2” / 2” / 3” / 4” in diameter @19′ lengths.
The most commonly used sizes in residential and commercial plumbing are between 1/2 inch and 4 inches.


Joining methods: PVC pipes are typically connected using solvent cement, which creates a strong and leak-proof bond between the pipe and fittings. There are also threaded PVC fittings available that allow for a screw-on connection.


Color: We offer Schedule 40 PVC pipes in standard white, although they can be found in other colors (e.g., grey, black) depending on the manufacturer and intended application.


It’s essential to choose the appropriate schedule and size of PVC pipe based on the specific requirements of your project, including the intended application, pressure rating, and local building codes. When using PVC piping for plumbing or construction projects, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and local building regulations to ensure a safe and effective installation.

DWV piping
stands for Drain, Waste, and Vent piping. It is a specific type of plumbing system designed to handle the removal of wastewater and sewage from buildings, along with providing ventilation to prevent the buildup of harmful gases and odors.
DWV piping is an integral part of any plumbing system and ensures the safe and efficient disposal of waste materials. 
Here’s a breakdown of each component of DWV piping:

  • Drain: The “D” in DWV stands for “Drain.” Drain pipes are responsible for carrying wastewater away from sinks, bathtubs, showers, toilets, and other plumbing fixtures. The drainage system relies on gravity to move the wastewater through the pipes and into the sewer or septic system.

  • Waste: The “W” in DWV stands for “Waste.” Waste pipes handle solid waste and other materials that are flushed down toilets or deposited through drains. The waste pipes transport this waste to the sewer or septic tank for proper disposal.

  • Vent: The “V” in DWV stands for “Vent.” Vent pipes are designed to provide air circulation to the plumbing system, preventing the formation of vacuum or pressure within the pipes. The venting system ensures that wastewater can flow freely and smoothly through the drain pipes. It also helps to release harmful gases, such as sewer gas (composed of hydrogen sulfide and other noxious substances), to the outside, thereby preventing odors from entering the living spaces.

Key features of DWV piping:

  • Material: DWV piping is typically made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastic. This material is corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and easy to work with during installation.

  • Size: The size of DWV pipes varies depending on the plumbing code and the specific application. Common sizes for residential applications are 1.5 inches and 2 inches in diameter for drain and waste pipes.
    We offer  1 1/4” / 1 1/2” / 2” / 3” / 4” pipes @19′ lengths
    [SDR 32.5 (125 P.S.I)]  

  • Slope: DWV piping must be installed with a specific slope to ensure proper drainage. Typically, the slope is around 1/4 inch per foot (2% gradient) to allow wastewater to flow efficiently.

  • Traps: Traps are critical components of DWV systems. They are U-shaped bends in the pipe located beneath sinks, tubs, and other fixtures. Traps hold a small amount of water that prevents sewer gases from backing up into the living spaces while still allowing wastewater to pass through.

  • Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for a well-functioning DWV system. Vent pipes extend through the roof of the building to allow air to enter the system, equalizing pressure and preventing the formation of airlocks or siphons.

DWV piping is an essential part of any building’s plumbing infrastructure, as it ensures the safe removal of wastewater and prevents potential health hazards and foul odors. 

Proper installation and adherence to local plumbing codes are crucial to maintain the efficiency and functionality of the DWV system.


PVC electrical conduit
is a type of non-metallic conduit used in electrical installations to encase and protect electrical cables and wiring. PVC provides excellent electrical insulation and resistance to moisture, chemicals, and corrosion. It is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor electrical applications due to its versatility, ease of installation, and cost-effectiveness.

Key features and characteristics of PVC electrical conduit:

  • Material: PVC electrical conduit is made of polyvinyl chloride, a synthetic plastic polymer known for its toughness, flexibility, and resistance to various environmental factors. The PVC used in electrical conduit is formulated to meet specific electrical and fire safety standards.

  • Types: PVC electrical conduit comes in different types based on its thickness and rigidity:
    • Schedule 40 PVC Conduit: This is a standard-thickness, rigid PVC conduit commonly used in indoor installations where mechanical protection is required.

  • Sizes: We offer PVC electrical conduit in the following sizes: 20mm/ 25mm/ 32mm x 3m. lengths.
    The size chosen depends on the number and size of electrical cables being run through the conduit.

  • Fittings: PVC electrical conduit is installed using a variety of fittings, including couplings, connectors, adapters, elbows, and boxes. These fittings allow for easy connections, direction changes, and entry/exit points for wires and cables.

Advantages:

  • Electrical Insulation: PVC provides excellent electrical insulation, protecting the enclosed wires and cables from electrical hazards.
  • Corrosion and Moisture Resistance: PVC is resistant to corrosion and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor and wet environments.
  • Lightweight and Easy to Install: PVC conduit is lightweight, making it easier to handle and install compared to metal conduits.
  • Cost-Effective: PVC conduit is generally more affordable than metal conduits, making it a budget-friendly option for electrical installations.
  • Applications: PVC electrical conduit is used in a wide range of applications, including residential, commercial, and industrial electrical installations. It is commonly used for running electrical wiring in buildings, outdoor lighting, underground utilities, data and communication cables, and more.
  • Compliance: Like any electrical conduit, the installation of PVC electrical conduit is subject to local electrical codes and regulations. Proper sizing, securing, and placement are essential to ensure safety and compliance.

PVC electrical conduit offers a reliable and practical solution for protecting electrical systems while meeting the necessary safety requirements. It is essential to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and local building codes when using PVC electrical conduit in any electrical installation.


Contact our knowledgeable sales staff today, to purchase the best quality PVC piping available, always at ex factory prices.


You will discover the durability of ECPIL PVC products
and why we are an integral part of Regional Construction.


NB. This article is for general information purposes only and is meant as an incentive to the reader, who should then research and seek advice from their architectural and construction professionals to confirm that the ideas expressed are possible within the building codes of their territory or within the limitations of their home's architecture. ECMIL only recommends their own products and third party products which they supply, as part of their company's roofing solutions to customers.