PVC Plastic Material & Machining

Chemical & moisture resistant material ideal for chemical processing applications

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) takes a place as a popular material due to its breadth of applications in many different industries. As a synthetic polymer from vinyl chloride monomers, its molecular structure gives a versatile profile that engineers can formulate for rigid or flexible applications. The polymerization process creates PVC's integral linear chain of chlorine atoms attached to a carbon backbone that aid in this versatility as well.

The resin is a great material when machining plastic parts for thermoforming, chemical processing, or metal finishing. This moisture and chemical-resistant plastic also comes in a wide range of colors from clear to bright, bold hues, further elaborating on its adaptable nature.

Watch the video below, and get to know PVC in under 1.5 minutes. Still have questions? Reach out to our team of experts!

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Plastic Machining with PVC Plastic transcript

More about PVC Plastic Material & Machining

Key Facts About PVC

  • Versatile; fit for many different uses
  • Available for production in both rigid and flexible forms
  • Durable; long lifespan
  • Good tensile strength
  • Excellent chemical resistance
  • Water and weather resistant (including UV radiation)
  • Flame resistant
  • Thermal stability
  • Effective electrical insulation
  • Good dimensional stability
  • Essentially zero moisture absorption
  • Machines to tight tolerance
  • Cost effective
  • Easily moldable
drilled PVC manifold
Grade Product Characteristics Common Applications
PVCMoisture resistant, chemical resistanceChemical processing, life science, medical components

Properties & Characteristics

PVC is a relatively low-cost material that functions well in a wide variety of applications and industries. Capable of performing in environments up to 140F, PVC also offers resistance to mild acids, alkalis, and solvents. (CPVC is good for temperatures up to 200F.) The combination of chemical resistance with low moisture absorption makes PVC an ideal choice for applications including thermoforming, chemical processing, and metals finishing. PVC manifolds and other components can be found in an extremely wide range of colors: from clear to bright, bold hues.

Common PVC Applications

  • Pipes & fittings for plumbing
  • Electrical conduits
  • Cable insulation
  • Window frames
  • Medical devices
  • Signage