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PVC
Material Type
Plastic
Material Full Name
Polyvinyl Chloride
Process Compatibility
Injection Molding, CNC Machining, Extruding
List of Plastic Material
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List of Metal Material
PVC Description
Price
$$$$$
Strength
Durability, chemical resistance, lightweight, and low cost.
Weakness
Vulnerability to high temperatures, not biodegradable, easily brittle
Common Application
Gears, pumps and pump impellers, fan and blower blades, automotive switches, electrical switch components, buttons, and knobs.
Flexible PVC vs. Rigid PVC
Polyvinyl Chloride is widely available in two broad categories: Flexible and Rigid
Properties at a Glance
*Pease note: The following material properties are for reference only. Actual values may vary depending on the selected material brand.
Property | Plasticized (Flexible) PVC | Unplasticized (Rigid) PVC |
---|---|---|
Density | 1.3 - 1.7 g/cm³ | 1.35 - 1.5 g/cm³ |
Shore Hardness D | 15-70 | 65-90 |
Min Temp. Air | -40~-5°C | -10~1°C |
Max Temp. Air | 50-80 °C | 50-80 °C |
Flammabilitiy, UL94 | HB | V0 |
Elongation at Break | 100-400% | 25-80% |
Pros and Cons of Flexible PVC & Rigid PVC
Strength | Weakness | |
---|---|---|
Flexible PVC |
1. Bend and flex without breaking;
2. Resistant to impact and abrasion. |
1. Lower mechanical strength and dimensional stability;
2. Prone to plasticizer migration |
Rigid PVC |
1. Higher mechanical strength;
2. Dimensional stability. |
1. Lacks the flexibility and impact resistance;
2. Pprone to cracking under certain conditions |
How Additives Improve PVC Properties
PVC can be modified to enhance its properties or adapt it to specific applications, some of the common additives are as follow:
When adding additives to PVC, it's essential to consider their compatibility and potential impact on the material's properties. For example, adding too much plasticizer can make PVC too soft. Incompatible additives can reduced durability. Therefore, careful formulation is crucial to ensure that additives effectively enhance PVC's properties without compromising its performance.
- Plasticizers can increase its flexibility and resilience.
- Impact modifiers improves the impact resistance of PVC, reducing its tendency to fracture or shatter.
- Stabilizers can prevent degradation caused by heat, light, or chemical exposure.
- Flame retardant additives in PVC formulations improves its fire resistance
When adding additives to PVC, it's essential to consider their compatibility and potential impact on the material's properties. For example, adding too much plasticizer can make PVC too soft. Incompatible additives can reduced durability. Therefore, careful formulation is crucial to ensure that additives effectively enhance PVC's properties without compromising its performance.
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Is PVC material recyclable?
PVC is recyclable. Mechanical recycling is the most common method for recycling PVC, where the material is ground into small pieces and then melted to form new products. However, PVC recycling rates are relatively low compared to other plastics.
Is PVC material toxic?
PVC itself is not inherently toxic, but certain additives used in PVC production, such as plasticizers and stabilizers, can pose health risks. However, stringent regulations and proper handling can mitigate these risks.
Can PVC be used for outdoor applications?
PVC is commonly used for outdoor applications due to its durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance requirements. PVC products such as pipes, siding, window frames, and decking are often used in outdoor construction and infrastructure projects.