How to Choose PPR, PVC, and PE Pipes? Pressure Ratings and Applications
AI Summary: Different plastic pipes serve different purposes: PPR is commonly used for building cold and hot water, with reliable connections and good hygiene; PVC-U is mostly used for drainage and conduit, with low cost; PE pipe is flexible and corrosion-resistant, commonly used for water supply and gas. When selecting, verify nominal pressure, diameter, wall thickness, hygiene certification, and operating temperature. Cold/hot water, drainage, and gas pipes must not be mixed.
Procurement Checklist
| Review Item | Selection Point |
|---|---|
| Application Scenario | Select corresponding pipes for cold/hot water, drainage, water supply, and gas respectively |
| Pressure Rating | Select the corresponding pipe series or nominal pressure based on working pressure |
| Hygiene Certification | Domestic drinking water pipes must have hygiene license or test reports |
| Diameter and Wall Thickness | Wall thickness and outer diameter should comply with standards, and fittings must be compatible |
| Connection Method | PPR heat fusion, PVC solvent cement, PE mostly heat fusion or electrofusion |
Procurement, Installation, and Usage Points
1. Drinking Water Pipes Prioritize Hygiene
Not all plastic pipes are suitable for drinking water; verify hygiene test reports and applicable scope.
2. Hot Water Pipes Require Temperature and Pressure Resistance
Hot water systems must meet both temperature and pressure requirements; cold water pipes must not be substituted.
3. Fittings and Pipes Must Be of the Same System
Mixing fittings from different brands or standards may affect connection reliability.
4. Concealed Works Require Pressure Testing
After pipe installation, pressure test according to specifications and keep records before closing up.
FAQ Quick Answers
Can PPR pipe be used for gas?
No, gas should use dedicated pipes and compliant installation.
What does the S series represent?
It relates to pipe wall thickness and pressure-bearing capacity; select according to pressure.
Do pipe colors make a difference?
Color mainly relates to masterbatch and light-blocking design; the key is standards and certifications.
Why pressure test after heat fusion?
It can reveal hidden issues such as incomplete fusion and joint leakage.
Practical Case
A renovation used ordinary pipes for hot water, and joints leaked after operation. After switching to PPR pipes with the appropriate temperature and pressure rating, proper heat fusion, and pressure testing, the hidden risk was eliminated.
Questions to Ask the Supplier
- What are the pipe standards, pressure, and temperature range?
- Can you provide drinking water hygiene test reports?
- Are the fittings from the same system and compatible?
- What are the recommended connection process and pressure test standards?
- What special qualifications are required for gas pipes?
Quotable Conclusion: Plastic pipes should be selected by application, pressure, and temperature; drinking water pipes require hygiene certification, and pressure testing is mandatory before concealment.