PVC is popular because it is strong and moldable. Manufacturers can heat it up and turn it into all different kinds of products, such as piping, siding, cable insulation, signs and more.
To build upon those advantages in CPVC, the PVC homopolymer is subjected to a chlorination reaction. The chlorine (C2) and PVC resin react through a basic free radical mechanism, typically initiated by thermal and/or UV energy.
The chart below shows the molecular difference between CPVC (left) and PVC (right), where the large chlorine atoms (red) increase exhibit the increased protection of the carbon backbone.
In PVC, chlorine atoms occupy 25% of the bonding sites, and the rest are filled by hydrogen. The CPVC carbon backbone, in contrast, has approximately 40% of bonding sites filled by chlorine. The increase in large chlorine molecules is the key to protecting the backbone from decomposition.
The most noticeable change from PVC to CPVC is its heat distortion temperature and pressure rating at elevated temperatures. PVC is pressure rated for use up to 140°F (60°C), while CPVC is approved for use up to 200°F (93.3°C). When industrial processing applications involve higher temperature and/or higher pressures, CPVC may be used.
After the
CPVC Resin is formed from the PVC, Corzan Industrial Systems infuses it with additives that enhance other inherent properties, such as UV weatherability.
Finally, the
CPVC Compound is produced as pellets or powder. CPVC resin producers-such as Corzan Industrial Systems-create compounds for partner manufacturers who produce pipes, fittings, sheet and more. The resin producers must produce compounds that fit the partner manufacturers` applications and manufacturing requirements.
