PVC Handling & Storage

Adapted from material written by Johnson Screens, manufacturers of the PVC piping used in Simple Pump drop pipe kits.

If not installed immediately, the PVC piping may be stored indoors or outside in yards. If stored outdoors, pipe and fittings should be protected from direct exposure to sunlight, and pipe should be properly supported in storage to prevent sagging or bending.

The pipe should be stored at the job site on level ground. Caution must be exercised to avoid compression, damage, or deformation.

PVC pipe must not be stored in tightly enclosed areas subject to elevated temperatures or close to heat-producing sources such as heaters, boilers, steam lines, engine exhaust, etc. Exposure to excessive temperatures will result in distortion and deformation of the product.

When stored outdoors PVC must be covered with a non-transparent material. The original packaging is a good option. This covering must provide adequate air circulation above and around the pipe as required to prevent excessive heat absorption that can result in discoloration and deformation of the product. PVC piping products in storage should not be exposed to temperatures above 150°F (66°C).

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EXPOSURE TO UV

UV radiation results in a color change to the product; a slight increase in tensile strength; a slight increase in modulus of tensile elasticity, and a slight decrease in impact strength. UV degradation occurs only in the PVC material directly exposed to UV radiation and to extremely shallow penetration depths (frequently less than 0.001 inches (0.025 mm). UV degradation stops when exposure to UV is terminated.

Bottom line – do not store long term, exposed to UV.

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JOINING THREADED CONNECTIONS

Do not preassemble pipe lengths. Assemble one drop pipe section at a time in a vertical position, as described in the installation instructions. Follow directions carefully and always use the safety tool. Teflon tape is recommended for joints.

Care must be used to avoid over-torquing during assembly. ASTM NPT thread specifications call for 1 to 2 turns beyond finger tight. This is all that is required to obtain a leak-tight seal for most pipe sizes. Factory testing has indicated that 10 to 25 ft. lbs. of torque are typically adequate to obtain a leak-free seal.

Do not use pipe wrenches that dig or cut into the PVC. Larger sizes will usually not make up as much by hand and will require more wrench make up. No glue, solvents, or sealants should be used during the assembly process.

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WARNING

Improper use of tools normally used with metal piping systems, i.e. hacksaws, water pump pliers, pipe wrenches, etc. can cause damage to plastic pipe and fittings. Visible and non-visible fractures, scoring or gouging of material, and over-tightening of plastic threaded connections are some of the major problems associated with the use of incorrect tools and/or procedures.