CPVC

Although CPVC is based on PVC, and shares a few of the same characteristics, it is still a unique polymer. CPVC is a high temperature grade (up to 200°F) chlorinated polyvinyl chloride that provides excellent corrosion resistance, high heat resistance, chemical resistance, inherent flame resistivity, good tensile strength, weatherability and is easily fabricated. These characteristics make CPVC a useful material in a wide range of markets including the chemical processing and metal finishing industries. It can easily be machined with standard wood-working tools. In addition, CPVC can be fiberglass backed, hot-gas welded with rod, cemented, (solvent bonded) riveted, and threaded.

Product Applications

• Chemical Processing
• Fume Scrubbing
• Metal Anodizing
• Metal Finishing
• Pickling
• Waste Treatment

Fabrication Recommendations

CPVC:

Thermoplastic preparation for assembly (welding or other fastening methods) is similar to metal fabrication procedures. Pieces are laid out, cut machined and joined with the same tools, equipment and skills utilized in the metalworking trades. However, there are special forming requirements for thermoplastics not encountered in metal work. Fabrication involves cutting, sawing, machining, forming, joining or fastening together for the complete object. Machining may include beveling, routing, grinding, turning, milling, drilling, tapping and threading.

Once the different thermoplastic parts are formed into the proper shape, they may then have to be joined. The type and method of assembly depend on the function of the finished structure. The several assembly techniques include the use of adhesive bonding, self-tapping screws, threaded inserts, press fitting, cold heading, heat joined (hot-plate welding, hot wire welding, induction heating, hot flaring and spin welding) cementing and hot gas welding. Each operation requires its own tools and equipment.

• Thermoforming
  The material is adaptable to all common thermoforming techniques including vacuum snap-back, plug-assist, positive-air and billow forming. Forced air ovens and electric strip heaters may be utilized for forming and bending.
• Sawing & Drilling
  Fine pitch blades are recommended for cutting thin sheets while hollow ground blades should be used for thicker materials. Standard metal-cutting drills are utilized at slow feeds to prevent overheating and binding of the drill.
• Machining
  CPVC can be turned, threaded, grooved or milled with high-speed tools commonly used for wood or metal.
• Brake Forming
  The material can be brake-formed in an ordinary cornice brake. The inside radius of the bend should be equal to or greater than the thickness. Allowance for spring-back in the material is made by overforming the part on the brake. Brake formed parts should not be subjected to high "in-service" temperatures or stress. Darker colors may show some surface whitening in highly stressed areas.

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