Impact of Temperature on PVC Pipe Shrinkage and Joint Integrity
Humberto Goldoni
Jun 10, 2025 12:30:09 PM

Temperature Effects on PVC Pipe Shrinkage and Joint Performance
PVC pipes exhibit length shrinkage (~0.7%) under high temperature exposure such as hot water discharge. In contrast, Polyolefin (PO) pipes show higher volume shrinkage (~3%) and may develop inward curvature at pipe ends due to uneven cooling, affecting joint integrity.
Risks to Joint Integrity and Leakage
Shrinkage can cause spigot retraction in rubber ring sealed sockets, leading to leaks. In PO pipes, inward curvature at pipe ends during electro-fusion jointing may cause melt leakage. ABS pipes, with high Heat Deflection Temperature (HDT), resist these issues better.
FAQ Section
How does temperature affect shrinkage in plastic pipes?
Yes, shrinkage can lead to spigot retraction or melt leakage during jointing, compromising joint integrity.
Can shrinkage cause pipe joints to fail?
Yes, shrinkage can lead to spigot retraction or melt leakage during jointing, compromising joint integrity.