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  1. #1
    Bill Maher's Avatar
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    Default Properties of PVC Electrical Conduit vs PVC Pipe

    Can anyone tell me if there is a difference in the physical properties of NEMA TC-2 ( schedule 40) PVC electrical conduit and ASTM D2665 PVC Drain Waste and Vent piping (schedule 40)?

    Thanks

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  2. #2
    John Steinke's Avatar
    John Steinke Guest

    Default Re: Properties of PVC Electrical Conduit vs PVC Pipe

    As far as the standards are concerned, there is a difference. "Electrical" PVC supposedly has stiffeners (to give it strength ) and is sunlight resistant."Plumbing" PVC relies, in part, on the water inside for strength, and is not expected to be exposed to sunlight.

    One manufacturer -Cantex- insists this is the case. One member of this board asserts that he's worked there, and it's all made of the same stuff. Believe whom you will.


  3. #3
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    Default Re: Properties of PVC Electrical Conduit vs PVC Pipe

    Difference to standards tested and rated/certified. Same PVC product may be have multiple ratings & markings i.e. PVC Sch. 40 & EPC 40.

    Pressure testing & rating at standard temps (IIRC 23c) for the plumbing products, low tolerance lead/chemical leaching contaimination to potable standards (D1785 & D2265).

    Putting off heat/heat buildup meeting insulation ratings (90c) for electrical tubing.

    Some mfg's like crestline manufacture some PVC products that are dually tested and labeled/marked & NSF certified.

    i.e. ASTM D1785/ASTM D2265/NEMA TC-2/UL 651

    If the markings have been obscured or removed (paint thinner, painted, etc.) there is no way to tell visually. Same outer dia and wall thickness for same sizes.

    Last edited by H.G. Watson, Sr.; 11-13-2009 at 03:02 PM.

  4. #4
    A.D. Miller's Avatar
    A.D. Miller Guest

    Default Re: Properties of PVC Electrical Conduit vs PVC Pipe

    PVC that is rated for electrical conduit is, for the most part, UV-resistant, where schedule 40 is not.


  5. #5
    Bill Maher's Avatar
    Bill Maher Guest

    Default Re: Properties of PVC Electrical Conduit vs PVC Pipe

    Thanks to all for their input.


  6. #6
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    Default Re: Properties of PVC Electrical Conduit vs PVC Pipe

    Quote Originally Posted by A.D. Miller View Post
    PVC that is rated for electrical conduit is, for the most part, UV-resistant, where schedule 40 is not.
    Schedule is a measure of pipe wall thickness. PVC conduit, as well as water pipe can be in Schedule 40 and 80.


  7. #7
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    Default Re: Properties of PVC Electrical Conduit vs PVC Pipe

    Quote Originally Posted by Jim Port View Post
    Schedule is a measure of pipe wall thickness. PVC conduit, as well as water pipe can be in Schedule 40 and 80.
    Schedule is a relationship between wall thickness and diameter, not just wall thickness.

    The intent is to provide a similar mechanical strength or pressure rating, and the larger the diameter the thicker the wall thickness needs to be to achieve the same strength/pressure rating.

    Jerry Peck
    Construction/Litigation/Code Consultant - Retired
    www.AskCodeMan.com

  8. #8
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    Default Re: Properties of PVC Electrical Conduit vs PVC Pipe

    True, I was just point out that Schedule 40 was improper terminology as far as this discussion in regards to conduit vs water pipe differences; ie just because it is labelled Sched 40 does not make it electrical conduit.


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