An Overview of UPVC Pipe
UPVC pipes full form is Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride. It denotes that the material used in these pipes is not plasticized, which means that no plasticizers have been added to make it flexible. PVC resin is mixed with various chemicals to make a strong and durable material for UPVC pipes.
The production of UPVC pipes begins with a blend of PVC resin, stabilizers, and additives. This mixture is heated at high temperatures, shaped into profiles through molds and dies, cooled, and then tested. This process ensures that UPVC becomes a durable and reliable material. Its natural rigidity allows the pipe to resist both internal pressure from fluids and external load from soil or structures. That’s why UPVC is considered one of the stiffest forms in the PVC family.
Because of its exceptional qualities, UPVC pipes are widely employed in a variety of applications. These pipes are made of a heat-resistant plastic that is extremely durable and resistant to chemical deterioration. Plumbing, drainage, and irrigation are just a few of the applications for UPVC pipe. UPVC pipe is a non-toxic material that resists corrosion, chemicals, and weathering.
Types of UPVC Pipes
1. Pressure Pipes
- Built for high-pressure water and fluid applications.
- Manufactured with thicker walls and classified by PN ratings (PN 6, PN 10, PN 16, PN 20).
- Common in municipal water networks, irrigation, and fire-fighting systems.
Why? They prevent cracks or bursts under continuous pumping.
How? Wall thickness and PN class define the safe operating pressure.
2. Non-Pressure Pipes
- Designed for applications where fluid moves by gravity instead of pumping.
- Lightweight with thinner walls, but smooth interiors for efficient flow.
- Used in sewage, rainwater drainage, and ventilation systems.
Why? No extra strength is needed when fluids flow naturally, reducing cost.
How? The slope of installation allows gravity flow, while smooth walls minimize blockages.
Technical Comparison: Pressure vs Non-Pressure UPVC Pipes
| Feature | Pressure Pipes | Non-Pressure Pipes |
|---|---|---|
| Wall Thickness | Thicker to withstand internal pressure | Thinner, designed only for free flow |
| Strength Rating | Classified as PN 6, PN 10, PN 16, PN 20 (bar pressure capacity) | No PN rating, since they don’t carry pressure |
| Applications | Drinking water supply, irrigation, fire-fighting, industrial pumping | Drainage, sewerage, rainwater disposal, ventilation |
| Flow Mechanism | Fluids move under pump pressure | Fluids move under gravity flow |
| Durability | Withstands high stress, reliable in pressurized systems | Adequate for non-pressurized networks |
| Cost | More expensive due to thicker material and pressure testing | More affordable, ideal for large underground networks |
| Installation | Requires fittings rated for pressure, solvent welding or threaded joints | Easy to install, often joined with push-fit or solvent cement |
| Lifespan | 40–50 years with proper use | 30–40 years depending on soil and usage conditions |
UPVC pipe standards
IS 4985:2000 (Indian Standard): This is the standard set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) for UPVC pipes for potable water supplies. It specifies the requirements for these pipes used in water supply systems.
ASTM D1785 (American Standard): This standard, published by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), outlines the specifications for these pipes and fittings used for pressure applications.
ISO 4422-2:1996 (International Standard): This standard, published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), provides specifications for these pipes and fittings for water supply systems.
BS EN 1452-2:2010 (British Standard): This standard, published by the British Standards Institution (BSI), specifies the requirements for these pipes and fittings for pressure applications.
AS/NZS 1477:2006 (Australian/New Zealand Standard): This standard, published jointly by the Australian and New Zealand Standards organizations, provides specifications for these pipes and fittings for pressure applications.
DIN 8062:2009 (German Standard): This standard, published by the Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN), outlines the requirements for these pipes used for water supply and drainage.
When selecting UPVC pipes, it’s important to check if they meet the relevant national or international standards based on your specific application. Adherence to these standards ensures that the pipes have undergone rigorous testing and meet established quality, safety, and performance criteria.
uPVC Pipe Sizes in mm and Wall Thickness (Market Standard – IS 4985 / Commonly Available)
uPVC pipes are produced in a wide range of diameters and pressure classes. The wall thickness depends on the PN rating (Pressure Nominal) which shows how much internal water pressure the pipe can safely handle. A higher PN rating = thicker walls = stronger performance.
| Pipe Size (Nominal Dia) | PN 6 (Wall mm) | PN 10 (Wall mm) | PN 16 (Wall mm) | PN 20 (Wall mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 mm | 2.0 | 2.5 | 3.2 | 3.8 |
| 25 mm | 2.0 | 2.5 | 3.2 | 3.8 |
| 32 mm | 2.0 | 2.5 | 3.2 | 3.8 |
| 40 mm | 2.4 | 3.7 | 4.7 | 5.9 |
| 50 mm | 2.4 | 3.7 | 4.7 | 5.9 |
| 63 mm | 3.0 | 4.7 | 6.0 | 7.7 |
| 75 mm | 3.0 | 4.7 | 6.0 | 7.7 |
| 90 mm | 3.5 | 5.4 | 8.2 | 10.2 |
| 110 mm | 4.2 | 6.6 | 10.0 | 12.3 |
| 140 mm | 4.8 | 9.5 | 13.7 | 16.8 |
| 160 mm | 4.8 | 9.5 | 14.6 | 18.2 |
| 200 mm | 6.0 | 11.9 | 18.2 | 22.7 |
| 225 mm | 6.7 | 13.4 | 20.5 | 25.4 |
| 250 mm | 7.4 | 14.8 | 22.7 | 28.2 |
| 280 mm | 8.3 | 16.6 | 25.4 | 31.5 |
| 315 mm | 9.3 | 18.7 | 28.6 | 35.4 |
| 355 mm | 10.5 | 21.1 | 32.2 | 39.8 |
| 400 mm | 11.8 | 23.7 | 36.3 | 44.9 |
| 450 mm | 13.3 | 26.6 | 40.9 | 50.6 |
| 500 mm | 14.7 | 29.6 | 45.4 | 56.2 |
| 560 mm | 16.5 | 33.1 | 50.8 | 62.9 |
| 630 mm | 18.5 | 37.2 | 57.3 | 70.7 |
Why This Table Matters
- ND (Nominal Diameter): Refers to the internal pipe size.
- PN Rating: The pressure class in bars (1 bar ≈ pressure of 10 m water head).
- Wall Thickness: The higher the PN rating, the stronger the pipe to withstand pump or pressure loads.
For example:
- A 110 mm PN 6 pipe with 4.2 mm wall thickness is best for low-pressure water distribution.
- A 110 mm PN 16 pipe with 10 mm wall thickness is suitable for high-pressure pumping systems.
UPVC pipe applications
Residential plumbing: UPVC pipe is commonly used in residential plumbing systems for both hot and cold water supply, as well as for drainage and sewer systems. For example, UPVC pipe can be used to connect the water main to the house, to connect the faucets and fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom, and to drain wastewater away from the house.
Commercial plumbing: UPVC pipe is also used in commercial plumbing applications, such as in office buildings, restaurants, and hospitals. For example, UPVC pipe can be used to supply water to fire sprinkler systems, to drain rainwater from roofs, and to transport wastewater from toilets and sinks.
Irrigation: UPVC pipe is widely used in irrigation systems to distribute water to plants and crops. For example, UPVC pipe can be used to connect the water main to the irrigation system, to distribute water to different parts of the field, and to deliver water directly to the roots of plants.
Electrical conduit: UPVC pipe can also be used as electrical conduit to protect electrical wires from damage. For example, UPVC pipe can be used to run electrical wires through walls and ceilings, to protect wires from the elements outdoors, and to bury wires underground.
Chemical processing: UPVC pipe is resistant to many chemicals, making it ideal for use in chemical processing applications. For example, UPVC pipe can be used to transport corrosive chemicals, to transport chemicals at high temperatures, and to transport chemicals under pressure.
Food and beverage processing: UPVC pipe is also used in food and beverage processing applications because it is non-toxic and easy to clean. For example, UPVC pipe can be used to transport milk, juice, and other beverages, to transport food products, and to transport cleaning chemicals.
Why we have to use UPVC Pipes over material pipes
- Cost: UPVC pipes tend to be more cost-effective compared to materials like metal or concrete. They are generally less expensive to manufacture and transport.
- Weight: UPVC pipes are significantly lighter than metal or concrete pipes. This makes them easier to handle during transportation and installation.
- Corrosion Resistance: UPVC pipes do not corrode, which is a common issue with metal pipes. This property ensures a longer lifespan and lower maintenance costs.
- Ease of Transport and Installation: Due to their lighter weight, UPVC pipes are easier to transport and install compared to heavier materials like concrete.
- Chemical Resistance: UPVC pipes are highly resistant to various chemicals. This makes them suitable for applications where they may come into contact with different substances.
- Insulation Properties: UPVC pipes have better insulation properties compared to metal pipes. This means they are less likely to conduct heat, which can be advantageous in certain applications.
- Temperature Tolerance: It’s important to note that UPVC pipes have a lower temperature tolerance compared to materials like CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride). This means they may not be suitable for applications involving very hot water.
- Environmental Impact: UPVC pipes have a relatively low environmental impact. They are recyclable and have a lower production footprint compared to some other materials.
Advantages of UPVC pipe
Durability: UPVC pipes are very durable and can withstand a wide range of conditions, including high and low temperatures, pressure, and chemicals.
Corrosion resistance: UPVC pipes are resistant to corrosion from both internal and external sources, making them ideal for use in both cold and hot water systems.
Chemical resistance: UPVC pipes are resistant to many chemicals, making them ideal for use in industrial and commercial applications.
Lightweight: UPVC pipes are lightweight, making them easy to transport and install.
Easy to install: UPVC pipes are easy to install using a variety of methods, including solvent welding, threaded connections, and mechanical connections.
Affordable: UPVC pipes are a relatively affordable material, making them a cost-effective choice for many applications.
Smooth inner surface: UPVC pipes have a smooth inner surface, which reduces friction and improves flow rates.
Non-toxic: UPVC pipes are non-toxic and safe for use in drinking water systems.
Recyclable: UPVC pipes are recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly choice.
Long lifespan: UPVC pipes have a long lifespan of up to 50 years, making them a cost-effective investment in the long run.
Low maintenance: UPVC pipes require very little maintenance, saving you time and money.
Noise reduction: UPVC pipes are good at reducing noise, making them ideal for use in homes and offices.
Which is superior PVC or UPVC pipe
In general, UPVC pipe is superior to PVC pipe because it is more robust, chemical resistant, and less likely to leach dangerous substances into the water. However, PVC pipe is less expensive than UPVC pipe.
The appropriate pipe for a specific application will be determined by the application’s specific requirements. For example, if the pipe will be utilised to transport drinking water, UPVC pipe is the superior option. However, if the pipe will be used to transport non-potable water or drainage, PVC pipe may be a more cost-effective solution.
Differences between PVC and UPVC pipe
Flexibility: PVC pipe is more flexible than UPVC pipe due to the presence of plasticizers. Because it has no plasticizers, UPVC pipe is more stiff.
Durability: UPVC pipe is more durable than PVC pipe because it is more resistant to impact, abrasion, and weathering.
Chemical resistance: UPVC pipe is more chemical resistant than PVC pipe. This makes it a better alternative for conveying corrosive fluids.
Leaching: PVC pipe can leach toxic compounds into the water, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. UPVC pipe is less likely to leech dangerous compounds into the water.
UPVC pipe price
UPVC pipe costs vary in India depending on the pipe’s size, brand, and quality. A general rule of thumb, nevertheless, is that UPVC pipe costs more than PVC pipe.
UPVC pipe per meter in India
- UPVC pipe, 1/2 inch: INR 60-100 per meter
- UPVC pipe 1 inch: 80–120 INR per meter
- UPVC pipe, 2 inches: INR 150-200 per meter
- UPVC pipe, 3 inches: 250–300 rupees per meter
- 350–400 INR per meter for 4 inch UPVC pipe
UPVC pipe hsn code
The HSN code for UPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) pipes is: 3917.23.90
This code comes under the broader classification of Chapter 39, which covers plastics and articles made from plastics.
- 3917 → Tubes, pipes, hoses, and fittings made of plastics.
- 3917.23 → Rigid pipes and tubes manufactured from vinyl chloride polymers.
- 3917.23.90 → A specific category for UPVC pipes and fittings not listed elsewhere.
Why is this important?
Accurate Identification – Ensures UPVC pipes are recognized correctly in trade, customs, and taxation.
GST/Tax Compliance – The HSN code defines the GST rate (generally 18% in India), helping avoid errors in billing.
Hassle-Free Imports & Exports – Using the right code prevents shipment delays, penalties, and legal issues.
FAQs about UPVC Pipes
1. What is uPVC Pipe Used For?
uPVC pipes are widely used across multiple fields because they are lightweight, durable, and chemically stable. Their main uses include:
Water supply systems – safe drinking water pipelines.
Sewage and drainage – waste and stormwater management.
Agriculture – irrigation and farm water distribution.
Industrial lines – handling mild chemicals and non-corrosive fluids.
Bore wells – casing pipes to prevent sand or gravel from entering wells.
Electrical protection – used as conduits for wiring.
Reason: They combine strength, safety, and cost-effectiveness in one solution.
2. Which is Better: uPVC or CPVC?
uPVC: Rigid, durable, and best for cold water supply, drainage, and irrigation. They are economical and widely used in household plumbing.
CPVC: A modified version of PVC with added chlorine content, allowing it to withstand higher temperatures (up to ~90°C). This makes CPVC ideal for hot water systems and industrial processes.
Comparison:
For cold water and affordability → uPVC is the smarter choice.
For hot water and chemical handling → CPVC performs better.
3. What is Schedule 40 UPVC Pipe?
Schedule 40 UPVC pipe is a type of unplasticized PVC pipe that follows a specific wall thickness standard. The number “40” represents a medium-duty strength level, making it the most widely used option in plumbing, irrigation, and drainage works.
These pipes are strong enough to handle moderate water pressure, yet lightweight and affordable compared to metal pipes. Unlike Schedule 80, which is thicker and heavier, Schedule 40 gives a perfect balance of cost, durability, and easy installation.
Sizes of Schedule 40 UPVC Pipes Available in the Market
Here are the common pipe sizes with their outside diameter and wall thickness (approximate values):
| Pipe Size (Nominal) | Outside Diameter (OD) | Wall Thickness | Typical Pressure Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| ½ inch (15 mm) | 21.3 mm | 2.8 mm | ~ 12 bar (180 PSI) |
| ¾ inch (20 mm) | 26.7 mm | 2.9 mm | ~ 11 bar (160 PSI) |
| 1 inch (25 mm) | 33.4 mm | 3.4 mm | ~ 10 bar (150 PSI) |
| 1 ¼ inch (32 mm) | 42.2 mm | 3.6 mm | ~ 10 bar (140 PSI) |
| 1 ½ inch (40 mm) | 48.3 mm | 3.7 mm | ~ 9 bar (135 PSI) |
| 2 inch (50 mm) | 60.3 mm | 4.1 mm | ~ 8 bar (120 PSI) |
| 2 ½ inch (65 mm) | 73.0 mm | 5.2 mm | ~ 8 bar (115 PSI) |
| 3 inch (80 mm) | 88.9 mm | 5.5 mm | ~ 7.5 bar (110 PSI) |
| 4 inch (100 mm) | 114.3 mm | 6.0 mm | ~ 7 bar (100 PSI) |
| 6 inch (150 mm) | 168.3 mm | 7.1 mm | ~ 6 bar (90 PSI) |