What is black PVC?
Black PVC, or black polyvinyl chloride, is a type of PVC pipe that has been pigmented black throughout its material. This makes it more resistant to sun damage than standard PVC which is white or cream colored.
Here are some of the common uses of black PVC pipe:
Drain, waste, and vent (DWV) systems:
It is a popular choice for drain, waste, and vent (DWV) systems in buildings because it is durable, affordable, and resistant to corrosion. It is important to note that it is not typically used for hot water lines due to its lower temperature rating compared to white PVC.
Electrical conduit:
It can also be used as electrical conduit to protect electrical wires from damage. However, there are specific types of electrical conduit made from PVC that are designed for this purpose and may have additional properties such as flame retardance.
Irrigation systems:
It is sometimes used in irrigation systems, especially for above-ground applications. However, it is not as UV resistant as some other materials used for irrigation, such as HDPE pipe.
Here are some things to keep in mind when using black PVC pipe:
Temperature rating:
It typically has a lower temperature rating than white PVC. Be sure to check the temperature rating of the pipe before using it for hot water applications.
UV resistance:
While black PVC has better UV resistance than white PVC, it can still degrade over time when exposed to sunlight. If the pipe will be exposed to sunlight for extended periods, it is recommended to use a different material or to protect the pipe from UV rays.
Chemical resistance:
Black PVC is resistant to many chemicals, but it is not resistant to all chemicals. Be sure to check the chemical resistance of the pipe before using it to transport a specific chemical.
