Features & Benefits
Frequently Asked Questions About TempRiteŽ CPVC
- What is the difference between TempRite CPVC and PVC?
- Does TempRite CPVC cost more than PVC?
- Are there temperature limits of TempRite CPVC?
- How does TempRite CPVC handle different chemicals?
- How does TempRite CPVC perform in cold temperatures?
- What is the flame and smoke rating of TempRite CPVC?
If you have other questions please contact us.
What is the difference between TempRite CPVC and PVC?
The maximum use temperatures are as follows: PVC max. Temp = 140°F CPVC max. Temp = 220°F depending upon the compound used. PVC has a crystalline structure thus enabling it to be made into flexible material. CPVC does have a more rigid chain due to the additional chlorine atoms attached to the PVC chain and thus is a more brittle material. The difference in chemical structure of CPVC allows it to have a higher temperature resistance. In terms of chemical resistance the two are very similar.
Does TempRite CPVC cost more than PVC?
TempRite CPVC is more expensive than PVC. TempRite CPVC is capable of handling higher temperatures than PVC, thus the higher price per pound of material provides a significant value in demanding high temperature applications.
Are there temperature limits of TempRite CPVC?
The upper temperature limit on TempRite CPVC is 220°F depending on the compound used. There is no lower temperature limit on TempRite CPVC. At very cold temperatures the material will become brittle and the impact strength will decline.
How does TempRite CPVC handle different chemicals?
TempRite CPVC is compatible with most mineral acids, bases, salts and aliphatic hydrocarbons. It is a much more suitable material than other non-metals in these environments. Many factors affect chemical resistance such as concentration, temperature, pressure, external stress and product quality. Due to the large number of variables, material suitability is often based on in-service testing.
How does TempRite CPVC perform in cold temperatures?
In a cold environment, components made from TempRite CPVC may become brittle and lose some mpact strength.
What is the flame and smoke rating of TempRite CPVC?
TempRite CPVC inherently exhibits outstanding fire performance characteristics in terms of limited flame propagation and low smoke generation. When coupled with its excellent balance of mechanical strength, low thermal conductivity, and outstanding corrosion resistance, TempRite CPVC provides excellent value in terms of safety and performance in a wide range of applications.
Ignition Resistance
TempRite CPVC has a flash ignition temperature of 900°F which is the lowest temperature at which sufficient combustible gas is evolved to be ignited by a small external flame. Many other ordinary combustibles, such as wood, ignite at 500°F or less.
| FLASH IGNITION TEMPERATURE COMPARISON | ||
| Material | ˚C | ˚F |
| CPVC | 482 | 900 |
| PVC, rigid | 399 | 750 |
| Polyethylene | 343 | 650 |
| White Pine | 204 | 400 |
| Paper | 232 | 450 |
Source: Hilado, C.J., “Flammability Handbook for Plastics”, Table 2.5, Third Edition, Technomic Publishing, 1982.
Burning Resistance
TempRite CPVC will not sustain burning. It must be forced to burn due to its very high Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) of 60. LOI is the percentage of oxygen needed in an atmosphere to support combustion. Since Earth's atmosphere is only 21% oxygen, TempRite CPVC will not burn unless a flame is constantly applied and stops burning when the ignition source is removed. Other materials will support combustion due to their low LOI.
| LIMITING OXYGEN INDEX COMPARISON | |
| Material | LOI |
| CPVC | 60 |
| PVC, rigid | 45 |
| PVDF | 44 |
| ABS | 18 |
| Polypropylene | 17 |
| Polyethylene | 17 |
Source: Hilado, C.J., “Flammability Handbook for Plastics”, Table 2.5, Third Edition, Technomic Publishing, 1982.
Flammability
The flame spread and smoke generation characteristics of TempRite CPVC materials have been evaluated by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (ULI), Southwest Research Institute (SWRI), and Factory Mutual (FM) employing a number of recognized test methods.
ULI evaluated TempRite CPVC for flammability in accordance with UL 94, which is used for determining the flammability of plastic materials used in the components and parts of finished products. This test measures a material's resistance to burning, dripping, glow emission and burn through. CPVC has achieved the highest rating available within the scope of this test of V0, 5VB and 5VA.
