Why Schedule 40 PVC?
Schedule 40 PVC offers an effective combination of strength, chemical resistance, and affordability. It is rated for continuous service temperatures up to 140°F and resists most acids, bases, salts, aliphatic solutions, oxidants, and halogens, making it suitable for chemical processing and corrosive fluid transfer in addition to standard water and drainage work. PVC is lightweight compared to metal pipe, which reduces handling and shipping costs and simplifies installation. It will not rust, corrode, or scale, and its smooth interior wall promotes efficient flow with minimal friction loss.
Sizes and Pressure Ratings
Schedule 40 PVC pipe is available in nominal IPS, or Iron Pipe Size, sizes from 1/2" through 24". Because PVC uses a nominal sizing system, the actual outside diameter does not match the named size. For example, a 1" nominal pipe has an actual O.D. of 1.315". Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC pipe share the same outside diameters, so Schedule 40 fittings will physically connect to Schedule 80 pipe, though pressure ratings differ and mixing schedules in a pressure system is not recommended.
Pressure ratings decrease as pipe diameter increases. At 73°F, ratings range from approximately 810 PSI for 1/4" pipe down to 160 PSI for 8" pipe, with further de-rating at elevated temperatures. Contact us for specific pressure data by size.
Plain End vs. Bell End
Plain end pipe is cut square on both ends and requires a coupling or fitting to join two lengths together. This is the standard option for most installations.
Bell end pipe has one end that is factory-widened, or belled, to accept the plain end of the next length of pipe directly, eliminating the need for a separate coupling at each joint. Bell end is commonly used in longer runs where reducing the number of couplings saves time and material cost.
Both options are joined using PVC primer and solvent cement for a permanent, watertight bond.
Installation
Schedule 40 PVC pipe is installed using primer and solvent cement for socket, or solvent weld, connections. A medium-set PVC cement is recommended for sizes up to 12". For larger diameters, a heavy-body cement provides additional working time and gap-filling capability.
Schedule 40 pipe is not recommended for threading or grooving. If threaded connections are required, solvent-cemented male or female adapters should be used. Do not use PVC pipe for compressed air or gas service.
Common Applications
- Water supply and distribution, NSF listed for potable water
- Drainage, waste, and vent, or DWV, systems
- Irrigation and agriculture
- Chemical processing and plating
- Water and wastewater treatment
- Pool, spa, and aquatic systems
- High-purity and laboratory applications
- Industrial corrosive fluid transfer
Schedule 40 vs. Schedule 80
Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 PVC pipe share the same outside diameter, but Schedule 80 has a thicker wall, which gives it a higher pressure rating and makes it suitable for threading. Schedule 40 is the more cost-effective option and is the right choice for most drainage, irrigation, and moderate-pressure applications. Schedule 80 is preferred when higher working pressures, greater impact resistance, or threaded connections are required. We carry both schedules in a full range of sizes.
Bulk and Wholesale PVC Pipe
Commercial Industrial Supply buys direct from U.S. manufacturers in bulk, which allows us to offer wholesale pricing to contractors, builders, OEMs, and resellers. We stock Schedule 40 PVC pipe across the full size range and can ship full truckloads or smaller quantities direct to your job site from multiple U.S. warehouse locations. Whether you need a few lengths for a repair or a full project order, we return quotes within one business day. Call (866) 777-8001 or submit a quote request online.