Lightweight, Thin-Walled, PVC Ventilation Pipe and Fittings

Industrial PVC ventilation pipe systems are often chosen over more traditional galvanised steel systems where there is a risk of increased corrosion. The system differs from pressure pipe and fittings in that the wall thicknesses are thin in comparison, which results in a lightweight structure, that can be hung from roofs and ceilings with a minimal amount of strengthening or support.

The main areas of use for PVC ducting/ventilation systems are:

• Fume extraction and ducting from laboratories and industrial processes - Here, PVC ventilation is widely used, as long as the temperature of the fumes remains within the thresholds of the PVC. Temperatures above 50° centigrade are not suitable, as the plastic pipe will be prone to softening and distortion. That having been said, very few fumes reach this temperature as they are usually mixed with ambient air at the suction end. If galvanised ventilation ducting is used in fume extraction, chemicals in the gasses/air can very quickly eat away at the material. Most fume cupboard systems use PVC ventilation pipe and fittings for extraction.
• High humidity areas such as swimming pools, public aquaria and water treatment/air scrubbing plants are also ideal candidates for plastic ventilation systems. In these areas, rusting of metal and galvanised materials can not only cause integrity issues, but can also look unsightly.
• High hygiene and foodstuff production. Using plastic ventilation in these areas provides a much more hygienic solution than galvanised spirals. Unlike the spirals, the plastic pipe and fittings are very smooth, which limit the potential for dirt build up in cracks and crevices. The plastic material is also a better insulator than steel, so condensation problems are very much reduced.

PVC Ventilation pipe and fittings are assembled using a solvent weld process, where a "glue" is painted onto the PVC vent pipe and receiving socket. After pushing together a seal is made. The joint sets in a matter of minutes. It is recommended, however, that a couple of hours is allowed before trying to either move sections of assembled pipework or putting into service.

The first time a PVC ventilation system is put into service there will be fumes within the system, which are a result of the solvent cement setting. These should be extracted to the outside.

PVC is also an easy material to weld. Our engineers are able to fabricate almost any shape, including adaptors to connect to existing galvanised or plastic duct and fittings.

UPVC ad PVCU are other abbreviations which, when applied to this type of industrial ventilation pipe and fittings, means the same as PVC.

Fume cupboard pipe and fittings are generally manufactured from industrial PVC vent. Here at Plastic Pipe Shop, we supply all components (many from stock, and others fabricated to order) for the refurbishment, modification and replacement of fume extraction systems as well as for new builds.

If you would like any more information on these products please do not hesitate to contact us.