PVC (Polyvinyl chloride)
PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) is a thermoplastic. In technical applications, PVC-U—that is, unplasticized rigid PVC—is frequently used. PVC-U is characterized by high chemical resistance, high mechanical strength, rigidity, and hardness. In addition, the material is self-extinguishing and can be glued or welded.
Because of these properties, PVC is primarily used in applications where chemical resistance, electrical insulation, and consistent processing of semi-finished products are required.
Features at a Glance
Typical properties of PVC include:
- high mechanical strength, stiffness, and hardness
- high chemical resistance
- self-extinguishing behavior
- low water absorption
- good electrical insulation properties
- Good adhesion and paintability
- good weldability
- minimal stress cracking
- weather-resistant when painted white
Typical Applications
Due to its chemical resistance, strength, and ease of processing, PVC-U is used in a variety of technical fields.
Typical applications include:
- Chemical Plant and Equipment Engineering
- Drinking Water and Wastewater Technology
- Industrial Ventilation Systems
- Electrical Industry
- Construction Industry
- Advertising Technology
- Sports and Leisure Industry
- Rail Vehicle Manufacturing
Typical Components
PVC is often used for components where chemical resistance, dimensional stability, electrical insulation, or good bondability are important factors.
Typical components include, for example:
- Pump and Valve Bodies
- Gaskets
- Machine Parts
- Bearing cages
- Light Bulb Tubes and Light Bulb Housings
- Brush Base
- Profiles for Control Cabinets and Trade Show Booth Construction
- Drilling Templates
- Tubes for holding drill cores
Technical Specifications
The following values are typical guidelines and may vary depending on the type of material and the specific design.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Max. operating temperature | ca. -15 – ca. 60 °C |
| Thermal decomposition | > 180 °C |
| Electrical insulation | gut |
| Density | ca. 1,36 g/cm³ |
| Water absorption | low |
Chemical Resistance
PVC exhibits high to very high chemical resistance. The material is used, among other things, in the manufacture of chemical tanks and equipment, as well as in industrial ventilation systems.
Particularly resistant to
- Many acids
- Many alkalis
- Aqueous salt solutions
- Numerous chemicals in tank and plant construction
Limited resistance to
- Certain organic solvents
- Some hydrocarbons
- High continuous thermal and chemical exposure
- Strongly dissolving media
Machining and Manufacturing
PVC can be glued and welded, and is suitable for precise CNC manufacturing processes.
Typical characteristics during machining:
- high-quality milling and turning
- Easily glued and welded
- Good dimensional stability during machining
- low water absorption during processing
- more thermally sensitive than high-performance plastics
The selection of the appropriate material should be made on a project-by-project basis, taking into account load, temperature range, contact with media, and economic factors.
Comparison with Other Materials
| Property | PVC-U | POM-C | PET |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating temperature | low | medium | medium |
| Mechanical strength | good | high | high |
| Wear behavior | moderate | very good | good |
| Moisture absorption | low | very low | very low |
| Dimensional stability | good | good | very good |
PVC-U is particularly well-suited for applications with high requirements for chemical resistance, bondability, and electrical insulation.
Possible alternative materials
Depending on the application, other engineering plastics may also be considered:
- PE – high impact strength and excellent chemical resistance
- PVDF – Minimal water absorption and high chemical resistance
- PP – high chemical resistance and low density
Frequently asked questions about Polyvinyl chloride
What kind of plastic is PVC?
PVC is a thermoplastic. PVC-U is unplasticized rigid PVC and is used for semi-finished technical products.
What does PVC-U stand for?
PVC-U stands for “unplasticized,” meaning it contains no plasticizers. The material is also called rigid PVC.
Is PVC chemical-resistant?
PVC-U exhibits high chemical resistance and has very good resistance to acids and alkalis.
Is PVC self-extinguishing?
Yes. PVC is flame-retardant and self-extinguishes once the flame is removed.
Can PVC be glued?
Yes. PVC-U can be easily bonded and painted.
Can PVC be welded?
Yes. PVC-U can be glued and welded.
What components are typically made of PVC?
Typical components include pump and valve bodies, seals, machine parts, bearing cages, lamp tubes, lamp housings, profiles, and drilling templates.
When is PVC used?
PVC is used when chemical resistance, electrical insulation, good bondability, or weldability at moderate temperatures are required.