While they are pretty close in terms of nomenclature, the use of PVC and CPVC cement is rather different. They also have different levels of strength and building processes.
So to understand whether you can use PVC cement on CPVC, there are a few factors you will have to keep in mind. In this article, we will dig deep into this topic. So without further ado, let’s proceed!
PVC cement on CPVC
You can use PVC cement on CPVC but it is not advisable. But if you have to use this combination, there are a few things that you will need to keep in mind. Check their sizing compatibility. And if you glue them together, make sure to use a solvent cement and primer combination for the job.
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There is no hard and fast rule as to which cement you can use with CPVC. So people often seem to wonder whether they can use PVC cement on CPVC.
It is only natural to wonder whether you can bond these two materials together, as they are so similar in nature and seem to be substituted for each other.
However, despite the similarities in their names and actions, there are vast differences between these two materials. They have completely different chemical structures and are used for different purposes. Their sizing pattern is also different.
In addition, their ability to withstand temperature and heat is also significantly different. PVC can withstand a lower level of temperature compared to CPVC. So CPVC pipes have a higher melting point. The types of cement for each of these pipes are also built accordingly.
So to answer the question simply, you can use PVC cement on CPVC pipes, but it is not suggested by experts. Experts will encourage you to use the particular cement that is built for each pipe type.
Let’s take a look at different cement types for PVC and whether you can use them on CPVC pipes.
Regular clear PVC cement:
While regular clear PVC cement seems to be quite usable on CPVC pipes, it is not advised that you should use regular clear PVC cement on CPVC pipes.
This is because CPVC pipes are generally much stronger than PVC pipes and their respective cement are built to withstand the said strength.
So naturally, the cement for CPVC pipes is stronger than that of PVC pipes. So it would not be ideal to use the PVC cement on CPVC pipes.
However, if you’re using a combination of these two pipes and you have the cement for PVC pipes only, then it would be alright if you make do with the PVC cement.
Oatey medium clear PVC cement:
Yes, you can use Oatey medium clear PVC cement on CPVC cement without facing any issues. This cement is designed for use on both PVC and CPVC pipes.
You can also use this cement with fittings up to 6 inches in diameter. This is also ideal for gluing portable water pressure pipes. So all in all, Oatey medium clear PVC cement is a multipurpose cement that can be used in a range of materials.
Blue PVC cement:
No, you cannot use blue PVC cement on CPVC pipes. This cement is a rather old-fashioned cement and does not come with the strength that CPVC pipes need to serve you for a long time.
So needless to say, you can use this cement on PVC pipes alright, but they will not make an ideal choice for CPVC pipes.
Medium orange PVC cement:
The medium orange PVC cement can be used on CPVC pipes. This cement comes with great gap-filling strength. So they make a good choice for both PVC pipes and CPVC pipes. You can also use this cement to attach fittings up to 6 inches in diameter.
Yellow PVC cement:
Yes, you can use yellow PVC cement on CPVC pipes. This would make a good choice for both PVC and CPVC pipes.
What happens if you use PVC glue on CPVC pipe?
Let’s now take an in-depth look at what happens if you use PVC glue on the CPVC pipe. Read ahead to learn more about it
Lacks strength:
CPVC pipes are generally stronger than PVC pipes. So you will have to keep this strength factor in mind while choosing the right cement for the pipes that you are working with.
The cement for PVC pipes is designed to withhold pipes that have a lesser strength. So if you use PVC glue on the CPVC pipe, there is a possibility that the pipe may soon sustain a leak due to the glue’s lack of strength. It may also cause small cracks in the glued area.
Melting point:
The PVC pipes can withstand a temperature up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. On the other hand, the CPVC pipes can withstand as high as 200 degrees Fahrenheit of temperature. So their respective glues are also designed accordingly.
Since the pipes have different melting points, the glues are also designed to serve their respective melting points. If you use PVC glue on CPVC pipes, there’s a possibility that the glue may not serve you for as long as you’d like it to.
Is PVC and CPVC cement the same? What’s the difference?
No, PVC and CPVC cement are not the same. There are many differences between these two types of cement. The most notable difference is their ability to hold a pipe’s strength. Let’s take a closer look at the differences between PVC and CPVC pipes.
temperature:
The PVC cement has a temperature rating of 140 degrees F while the CPVC cement has a temperature rating of 180 degrees F. So you will need to keep this factor while using cement on a pipe of another kind.
If you plan on running hot water through a CPVC pipe, then you should not use PVC cement to glue it.
Viscosity:
The two types of cement also differ in terms of viscosity. There are different kinds of viscosity in cement. This largely depends on the amount of resin that they contain. You will notice that CPVC cement has a higher viscosity compared to an average PVC cement.
Strength:
PVC and CPVC pipes are designed to withhold different levels of strength in pipes. CPVC pipes are generally much stronger than PVC pipes. These pipes are designed to carry water and other fluid that have a stronger flow or higher temperature.
If you use PVC cement on CPVC pipes, it is likely that the cement will not be able to hold the pipe for as long as you like. There is a chance of damage, crack, or leak in the pipe if there is a difference in strength level.
How to use PVC glue on CPVC pipe?
Now if you have to use PVC glue on a CPVC pipe, let’s learn how you can do it properly. Follow the steps below in order to make the best out of the process:
Adjust the CPVC pipe:
The first step would need you to cut the CPVC pipe with a saw and adjust the size of the pipe. These pipes come in standard sizes and you will need to customize them to fit your particular needs.
Make sure that the CPVC pipes are cut with a fine saw to fit in the structure that you are building.
Now you will need to sand the edges of the pipe. This will help you attain the appropriate finish before attaching it with glue. This will also ensure that there is a minimum level of clog inside the pipe in the future.
Swipe with primer:
Now you can begin the process of attaching the pipes to the structure. You should begin by using a CPVC primer and swiping the outside of the pipe and inside the joint with it. Let it dry for 10 to 15 minutes.
Apply PVC cement:
Now you will need to use the cement. Make sure to spread an even and thin layer of PVC cement on the outside of the pipe and inside the joints. You will have to work on this process a bit quickly because the cement dries pretty fast.
Make sure to twist the pipe and joint together to ensure that the lines are matching. Let the cement sit.
Then if you feel the need, you can apply a couple more layers of PVC cement on the outside of the pipe in order to secure the bond.
Final thoughts
You can use PVC cement on CPVC pipes. But experts usually advise against it. CPVC cement and PVC cement differ in terms of strength, viscosity, melting point, and so on. CPVC pipes are stronger than PVC pipes, so it would be ideal to use a cement that is designed for this strength level of CPVC.