Types of PVC Pipe

Schedule 40 PVC pipe is one of the most commonly installed plastic pipe materials used in underground utility systems. Its balance of affordability, corrosion resistance, and moderate pressure capacity makes it a practical choice for many residential, commercial, and light-industrial piping applications. Because it is installed so frequently across irrigation, drainage, and water supply systems, Schedule 40 PVC represents a significant portion of buried plastic infrastructure that may later need to be located or mapped during excavation projects.

It is commonly used in:

• Residential water supply lines
• Irrigation systems
• Drainage systems
• Light industrial piping

Schedule 40 offers moderate pressure capacity and is relatively easy to install.

Schedule 80 PVC pipe is engineered for applications that require higher pressure ratings and increased structural strength compared to Schedule 40. The thicker pipe walls allow it to perform reliably in industrial and commercial systems where durability and pressure resistance are critical. In many facilities, Schedule 80 PVC is installed underground to protect piping systems from environmental exposure while maintaining long-term operational reliability.

Typical applications include:

• Industrial piping systems
• Chemical transport lines
• High-pressure water systems
• Commercial plumbing installations

Because of its strength and durability, Schedule 80 PVC is often used in environments where additional pressure resistance is required.

C900 and C905 PVC pipe standards are widely used for municipal water transmission and distribution systems. These large-diameter pipes are specifically designed to handle the high pressures and long service life requirements associated with city water infrastructure. Because these pipelines often span miles beneath streets, neighborhoods, and commercial areas, utilities must carefully document and manage their locations to prevent damage during construction or excavation activities.

These pipes are designed for:

• High pressure municipal water mains
• Large diameter pipeline installations
• Long service life in underground environments

Water mains using C900 or C905 PVC are often buried several feet underground and can extend for miles across municipal infrastructure systems.

PVC sewer pipe has become the preferred material for many wastewater and drainage systems due to its durability and resistance to corrosion. Unlike older materials such as clay or cast iron, PVC maintains smooth internal surfaces that promote efficient gravity flow and reduce buildup inside the pipe. As municipalities continue replacing aging sewer infrastructure with PVC systems, the amount of buried plastic sewer piping continues to grow across urban and suburban environments.

Common features include:

• Smooth interior walls for efficient flow
• Resistance to corrosion and chemicals
• Long service life in underground environments

PVC sewer pipe has largely replaced older clay and cast iron sewer systems in many regions.

Agricultural irrigation networks frequently use PVC pipe due to its affordability and resistance to corrosion.

These systems may include extensive underground pipe networks that distribute water across large areas.

Because irrigation lines are often buried and undocumented, locating them later can be challenging.