Why ABS instead of PVC?
I have noticed that all the DWV plumbing in my MH is ABS plastic. Is there a technical reason why ABS is used exclusively? Is it just that ABS costs about 1/2 of what PVC costs? If I redo a goodly por...
Forum Discussion
Chum lee wrote:
As some one who worked for a company who manufactured both PVC/ABS pipe I can tell everyone that not all products are the same. I sold PVC/ABS products to contractors, vendors, and engineers who specified them. We were also influential in writing some of the standard specifications which dictate the manufacture/mixture of the pipe. There are many different specifications (design mix) for both PVC/ABS pipe. The flexibility/rigidity of both products depends largely on the quantity of Calcium Carbonate (additive filler) which is added to the plastic mix prior to the extrusion process. Over time, both products will harden (become more brittle) especially if exposed to UV (Ultra Violet) light in storage or at the job site installed or not.
I've never sold to PVC/ABS to RV manufacturers. I can say that what ever material(s) are allowed in your region is very definitely building agency (code), time, and area dependent. Since RV's aren't fixed to the ground I'm guessing they would be in kind of a slippery slope category. My Class A RV built in Elkhart, Indiana in 1999 has ABS DWV pipe and PVC water supply pipe. Others may vary.
Chum lee
My 2018 Coachmen has PEX supply lines and ABS drains and vents.
