PVC Pipe Association

This paper critically examines the hydraulic performance claims made by the Ductile Iron Pipe Research Association (DIPRA) regarding ductile iron (DI) pipes, specifically concerning energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability in comparison to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes. DIPRA suggests that DI pipes, with their larger inside diameter (ID), lower pumping costs when compared to PVC. However, this analysis reveals that DIPRA's calculations and materials contain misleading data and unfounded assumptions, resulting in skewed comparisons that do not reflect the real-world performance of these materials. Key Areas of Analysis 1. Inside Diameter Comparison DIPRA’s comparisons often pair DI pipes with larger ID and lower pressure classes against higher-pressure class PVC pipes, leading to inaccurate efficiency claims. An equivalent pressure class (PC) should be considered in such comparisons. For example, DIPRA compares DI PC200 with PVC PC235, which inherently has a sma...

Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of over 4,700 compounds made up of fluorinated carbon chains. PFAS are commonly used across various industries such as aerospace, automotive, construction, cosmetics, and electronics, and are found in products like firefighting foam and non-stick cookware. Some PFAS compounds have been identified as harmful to human health. This document aims to reassure utilities and their customers that PVC pipes do not contribute to the presence of PFAS in drinking water. Addressing PFAS in Drinking Water PFAS can contaminate drinking water due to widespread environmental pollution. In response, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established national primary drinking water standards for six types of PFAS, limiting the permissible amounts in potable water systems. PFAS: Not From PVC Materials or Manufacturing PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipe is primarily made from PVC resin, combined with other ingredients to form a compound that is...

This document has been developed by the Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association to serve as a comprehensive guide for the design and installation of gasketed PVC fittings. These fittings are used in various applications, including potable water systems, force mains, pressure irrigation, and reclaimed water systems. The guide specifically addresses gasketed PVC fittings compatible with different dimension ratios and outside diameters of PVC pipes up to 60 inches. It is important to note that this document does not cover solvent-welded or fusible PVC fittings. Types of PVC Fittings The following are the various types of fittings available for use with gasketed PVC pipes: Tees: These fittings have an outstanding leg positioned at a 90° angle to the main pipe, allowing for the creation of a T-shaped junction. Crosses: Crosses have two outstanding legs that are opposite each other, forming a plus (+) shaped intersection. Bends: Bends are used to change the direction of the pipeline. Standard angles a...

The PVC Pipe Association (PVCPA) has developed an online calculator specifically designed to determine the cyclic life of sewer force mains. This tool is based on research conducted by Steven Folkman, Ph.D., at Utah State University, with results published in the ASCE Pipelines 2020 proceedings. Key Features of the Calculator The calculator allows users to input several critical parameters, including: Pipe Dimension Ratio (DR): The DR of the pipe, which is essential in assessing the pipe's structural capacity. Maximum Recurring Surge Pressures: The highest surge pressures that the pipe experiences during regular operation. Minimum Recurring Surge Pressures: The lowest surge pressures experienced. Number of Surge Occurrences Per Day: The frequency of surge events impacting the pipe. Output and Functionality The primary output of the calculator is the cyclic life of the pipe, which reflects how long the pipe can withstand the varying surge pressures before failure. The tool can ac...

A recent academic study on water main failures in the United States and Canada reveals a 27% increase in water main break rates between 2012 and 2018, with corrosive soils identified as a significant contributor. The research was led by Steven Folkman, a professor at Utah State University (USU) in Logan, Utah, USA, who previously authored a similar report in 2012. USU hosts the Buried Structures Laboratory, which has a large-scale testing facility for pipes and underground structures, as well as the Utah Water Research Laboratory—the oldest university-based water research facility in the United States. Survey Respondents The 2018 survey gathered responses from over 300 utilities, representing approximately 200,000 miles (321,869 kilometers) of installed water mains. Respondent input was collected from 48 U.S. states and seven out of 10 Canadian provinces, resulting in a 49% increase in survey responses and a 45% increase in miles of pipe compared to the 2012 study. The survey documente...

Direct tapping involves drilling a hole into the pipe wall, cutting threads, and securely installing a corporation stop. This process is performed using specialized tapping machines designed for PVC pipes. The maximum outlet size for direct tapping is 1 inch. Tapping Machine Requirements Several types of tapping machines can perform direct service taps. When selecting a tapping machine, ensure it meets the following criteria: Adapter Base: Must be properly sized to seal securely against the PVC pipe. Cutting Tool: Should use a shell-design cutting tool suitable for PVC pipes. Compatibility: The machine and the valve used must mate properly. Manufacturer Recommendations: The machine should be approved by its manufacturer for use with PVC pipe, and the manufacturer's instructions should be followed during the tapping process. Features of a Suitable Tapping Machine Adapter Base: Ensures a secure seal against the PVC pipe. Proper sizing is crucial to prevent leaks and ensure a clean...

Asset Management: Using Alternative Materials to Address Replacement Cost and Maintenance Concerns In the 21st century, water util-ity management professionals for both water and sewer systems strive to implement asset management programs in order to better manage their aging wet infrastructure. In 2012, a Black and Veatch survey1 on the US water industry found that the top asset management issues were all financially driven, namely addressing aging water and sewer infrastructure, managing capital costs, funding or availability of capital, and energy costs. In 2013, a McGraw Hill Construction study, conducted in partnership with CH2M Hill,2 confirmed that 75% of utilities implementing asset management programs did so because of their concerns with aging infrastructure. Major studies from the US Mayor’s Water Council,the USEPA,4 the Congressional Budget Office,5 US Government Accountability Office,6 the American Water Works Association7 and others all conclude that the costs associa...