I have plumbing question: is PVC more tolerant of heat than ABS? I have a waste steam drain on an autoclave (think BIG pressure cooker), that has caused the 2″ ABS drain plumbing to split and leak, and I wanted to know if I replace the drain with PVC if it will handle the hot water/steam any better. Currently replacing it ~ every 6 months. I have thought of ss or copper but I’m still trying to be cheap, (but the aggravation may loosen the money pouch).
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Replies
PVC is rated for use up to 140°F, at which it has a pressure rating of 22% of it's nominal (70°) pressure rating. It's not rated for use above 140°.
I could not find a rating chart for ABS pipe, but ABS sheets are rated for temperatures about 30 to 60° higher for an ASTM deflection test than PVC, so I would assume ABS pipe is more temperature resistant than PVC pipe.
An alternative, if you must stay cheap, is CPVC. CPVC pipe is rated for use up to 210°F, at which it has a pressure rating of 15% of it's nominal rating.
Thanks,
Never seen CPVC at the big box I guess I need to go the a real store. Thanks
Until you install a cast iron drain, for the first 15 feet or so, all other "fixes" will be temporary. PVC, ABS, and CPVC, PP, XLPP are not suitable for this service.