Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a versatile thermoplastic known for its high mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and ease of fabrication. GEHR PVC-U® is a specific type of unplasticized PVC, offering exceptional chemical resistance and self-extinguishing properties. It is commonly used in applications with operating temperatures ranging from +5 °F to +140 °F. While PVC exhibits good mechanical and tensile strength, it has some limitations in terms of weather resistance and impact strength with repeated UV exposure.
Properties of PVC
PVC has several properties that make it suitable for a wide range of applications:
- High mechanical strength, tensile strength, and hardness: PVC has a high strength-to-weight ratio, providing robust structural support.
- Good insulation properties for electronics: PVC offers excellent electrical insulation, making it suitable for electronic applications.
- High chemical resistance: PVC resists a wide range of chemicals, making it ideal for harsh environments.
- Self-extinguishing: PVC has self-extinguishing properties, enhancing safety in various applications.
- Low water absorption: PVC absorbs minimal moisture, maintaining its structural integrity in humid conditions.
- Easy to varnish and glue: PVC can be easily varnished and glued, allowing for various finishing techniques.
- Low impact strength: PVC has a relatively low impact strength, which should be considered in applications prone to impact or stress.
- Limited weather resistance: PVC may degrade with prolonged UV exposure, requiring additional protection for outdoor use.
Applications of PVC
Due to its unique combination of properties, PVC is used in various industries and applications:
- Pumps and valve bodies: PVC’s high chemical resistance and mechanical strength make it suitable for pump and valve components.
- Gaskets: PVC’s low water absorption and flexibility make it ideal for gaskets and sealing applications.
- Bearings cages: PVC’s mechanical strength and ease of fabrication make it suitable for bearing cages.
- Pipe lines: PVC is used for pipelines due to its chemical resistance and ease of welding and cementing.
- Hand lamp pipes: PVC’s insulation properties and low weight make it suitable for hand lamp pipes.
- Brush basic body: PVC is used for brush bodies due to its durability and ease of fabrication.
- Parts in dental medicine: PVC’s chemical resistance and safety make it ideal for medical applications.
- Seat strips: PVC’s flexibility and strength make it suitable for seat strips and other structural components.
- Profiles for cabin and fair construction: PVC is used for profiles due to its ease of fabrication and mechanical strength.
- Pipes for mounting of kerfs: PVC is used for mounting pipes due to its strength and durability.
- Lamp box: PVC’s insulation properties and ease of fabrication make it ideal for lamp boxes and other lighting components.
Conclusion
GEHR PVC-U® is a high-performance polyvinyl chloride material with unique properties, including high mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and self-extinguishing capabilities. Its versatility allows it to be used in a variety of applications, from pumps and valves to bearings cages and dental parts. Despite its limitations in terms of impact strength and weather resistance, PVC remains a popular choice for many industries due to its cost-effectiveness, durability, and ease of fabrication.