Know Your PVC: A Complete Guide to cPVC, uPVC, SWR & Agri Pipe Types

At Orril Pipes, we know that choosing the right piping material is essential for long-lasting and efficient systems in plumbing, construction, and agricultural applications. Among the most widely used materials, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) stands out for its strength, affordability, and adaptability. In this guide, we break down the major types of PVC pipes—cPVC, uPVC, SWR, and Agri pipes—to help you make the most informed choice for your project.

Types, Uses & Benefits of cPVC, uPVC, SWR, and Agri Pipes

1. cPVC Pipes – Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride

Overview of cPVC

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (cPVC) is an enhanced version of traditional PVC, produced by chemically increasing its chlorine content. This modification improves its strength, thermal resistance, and chemical durability, making it suitable for high-performance piping systems. This chemical alteration enhances its strength and thermal stability, allowing it to perform reliably in high-temperature environments. Its durability and resistance to a broad spectrum of chemicals make it especially suitable for hot water systems and industrial fluid handling.

Technical Highlights:

• Temperature Tolerance: Capable of continuous operation at temperatures up to 93°C (200°F), making it ideal for hot water and heat-intensive applications
• Pressure Handling: Designed to withstand pressures of up to 100 psi at elevated temperatures of 82°C (180°F), ensuring safe and efficient performance
• Available Sizes: Typically ranges from ½ inch to 12 inches in diameter
• Color Options: Commonly found in light grey or cream tones

Why Choose cPVC?

✅ High Heat Tolerance: Perfect for hot water lines in homes, commercial spaces, and industrial systems
✅ Excellent Chemical Resistance: Reliable for use in environments with corrosive fluids
✅ Smooth Internal Surface: Minimizes friction and scaling, maintaining optimal water flow
✅ Extended Service Life: When properly installed, cPVC pipes can last over five decades

Applications:

✅ Hot & cold water supply
✅ Industrial process piping
✅ Fire sprinkler systems
✅ Solar water heating

Installation Tips:

• Use special cPVC cement(not regular PVC glue)
• Allow for thermal expansion(3.5″ per 100ft for 50°F change)
• Pressure test at 1.5x working pressure before use

Pro Tip: cPVC pipes maintain pressure better at high temperatures than other plastics, making them ideal for hot water systems.

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2. uPVC Pipes – Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride Pipes

What is uPVC?

uPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) is the powerhouse of PVC pipes—sturdy, tough, and built to last without any added softeners. The absence of these softening agents gives uPVC its toughness and structural strength, making it highly suitable for construction, plumbing, and drainage systems where stiffness and longevity are essential.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Temperature: Efficiently functions within a range of 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F), suitable for cold and moderate-temperature fluid transport
• Pressure Capacity: 4kg/cm² to 25kg/cm²
• Standard Sizes: 20mm to 315mm
• Color: White or dark gray

Key Advantages:

✔ 50+ year lifespan – Extremely durable
✔ Lightweight & easy to install
✔ Safe for drinking water (NSF certified)
✔ Cost-effective – Cheaper than metal pipes

Applications:

✅ Potable water supply
✅ Underground drainage
✅ Sewage & wastewater systems
✅ Electrical conduits

Installation Guide:

• Use uPVC-specific solvent cement
• Allow 24 hours curing before pressurizing
• Support pipes at 1m intervals

Fun Fact: uPVC pipes are fully recyclable, making them a sustainable option for environmentally conscious building and plumbing projects.

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3. SWR Pipes – Soil, Waste & Rainwater Pipes

What are SWR Pipes?

SWR (Soil, Waste, and Rainwater) pipes are specially developed for the safe and efficient disposal of soil and wastewater, as well as rainwater drainage. Engineered to minimize flow noise and withstand outdoor conditions, they’re widely used in residential and commercial drainage systems.

Technical Specifications:

• Wall Thickness: 8mm to 5mm
• Noise Reduction: Up to 10 dB quieter
• Standard Sizes: 32mm to 160mm
• Color: Orange or gray

Key Features:

✔ Sound-dampening technology
✔ Leak-proof joints
✔ UV-stabilized for outdoor use

Applications:

✅ High-rise building drainage
✅ Kitchen & bathroom waste lines
✅ Rainwater harvesting

Installation Best Practices:

• Maintain 1:40 gradient for proper drainage
• Install cleanouts at every direction change

Expert Insight: Today’s advanced SWR pipe systems often include air admittance valves, which help block sewer gases from entering indoor spaces—improving hygiene and ventilation in drainage networks.

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4. Agri Pipes – Agricultural PVC Pipes

What are Agri Pipes?

Agri pipes are designed for farm irrigation, offering weather & chemical resistance.

Technical Specifications:

• Pressure Rating: 5kg/cm² to 6kg/cm²
• UV Stabilized: Contains 3% carbon black
• Standard Sizes: 16mm to 200mm
• Color: Black or blue

Key Benefits:

✔ Weather-resistant – Handles harsh outdoor conditions
✔ Clog-resistant – Smooth interior prevents algae buildup
✔ Saves water – 30-50% less usage than flood irrigation

Applications:

✅ Drip & sprinkler irrigation
✅ Farm water supply
✅ Drainage systems

Installation Tips:

• Bury 30-45cm deep for protection
• Flush regularly to remove sediments

 

Farmers’ Choice: Agri pipes increase crop yield while reducing water waste.

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Comparison: cPVC vs uPVC vs SWR vs Agri Pipes

Parameter	cPVC	uPVC	SWR	Agri
Max Temp	93°C	60°C	60°C	50°C
Pressure	High	Medium	Low	Medium
Flexibility	Semi-Rigid	Rigid	Rigid	Flexible
Primary Use	Hot Water	Cold Water	Drainage	Irrigation
Lifespan	50+ yrs	50+ yrs	50+ yrs	25+ yrs
Cost	Premium	Moderate	Moderate	Budget

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Why Choose Orril Pipes?

✅ ISO 9001 Certified Manufacturer
✅ BIS Certified Products
✅ Custom Sizes Available
✅ Pan-India Delivery
✅ Expert Technical Support

Get a Free Consultation Today!

📞 Call: +91 99098 45679
📧 Email: info@orrilpipes.com
🌐 Visit: www.orrilpipes.com