POLYMER TYPES

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Types and Applications

Widely used in pipe, profile, cable and construction applications, PVC is produced in two main groups: rigid and flexible (plasticized). Review the technical properties to choose the right PVC type for your application.

Rigid PVCFlexible PVCPipe & ProfileTurkey & Global
PVC raw material, rigid and flexible PVC types, pipe profile cable applications

PVC PRODUCT GROUPS

PVC Types by Application

The difference between PVC types comes from plasticizer content, which determines properties such as hardness, flexibility and durability.

Rigid PVC (rPVC / uPVC)

Rigid PVC, which contains no plasticizer, offers high mechanical strength, dimensional stability and chemical resistance.

  • Water and wastewater pipes
  • Window and door profiles
  • Building sheets

Flexible PVC

PVC softened with plasticizer additives gains flexibility and bendability.

  • Cable insulation
  • Hoses and gaskets
  • Floor coverings

PVC-O

PVC developed for applications that need high pressure resistance, produced by orienting the molecular structure.

  • Pressure water pipes
  • Infrastructure systems
  • Lines requiring high strength

TECHNICAL PROPERTIES

Key Properties of PVC

PVC type selection should be based on hardness requirements, outdoor conditions, flame retardancy and cost balance.

01

Flame Retardancy

Naturally resistant to burning, which is why it is preferred in cable and construction applications.

02

Durability

Offers long-lasting performance against UV, weather conditions and mechanical stress.

03

Cost Efficiency

Offers an economical solution thanks to broad production capacity and process flexibility.

04

Recyclability

Can be recycled under suitable conditions, which is an advantage for sustainability.

APPLICATIONS

Where Is PVC Used?

PVC serves a wide range of applications with its rigid and flexible grade options.

  • Water, wastewater and natural gas pipe systems
  • Window and door profiles and building sheets
  • Cable insulation and sheathing
  • Hoses, gaskets and flexible profiles
  • Floor coverings and medical products
Choosing the Right PVC Type

When choosing the PVC type for your application, consider hardness needs, outdoor conditions, mechanical load and regulatory requirements together. Contact our team for suitable products and sourcing options.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

About PVC

What is the difference between rigid PVC and flexible PVC?

Rigid PVC contains no plasticizer and is stiff; flexible PVC is softened with plasticizer additives to make it bendable.

In what environments can PVC be used?

PVC can be used in indoor and outdoor applications; durability may vary with UV stabilization and additive package.

How is PVC-O different from regular PVC pipe?

Because PVC-O is produced by a molecular orientation process, it offers higher pressure resistance than standard PVC pipe of the same diameter.

Do PVC prices vary by type?

Yes. Prices of rigid PVC, flexible PVC and special grades can differ by additive package, producer and market conditions.

PVC SOURCING SOLUTIONS

Let’s find the right PVC type for your needs together.

Share your application, hardness requirement and quantity; we’ll review suitable sourcing options for your rigid or flexible PVC requirement.

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