PVC pipe uses the IPS (Iron Pipe Size) sizing standard in North America, but PVC itself is a different material than the original pipes the standard was based on.
Understanding IPS and PVC Pipe Sizing
According to the IPS Article - Plastic Pipe Shop, IPS is an abbreviation for "iron pipe size". This system originated as the standard for most pipes used until the early 1900s. While the name suggests iron, IPS refers to a specific dimensional standard, not necessarily the material.
Today, the IPS sizing system remains highly relevant. The article explicitly states that IPS "forms the basis of the sizing specification for ABS and PVC pipe in North America". This means that plastic pipes like PVC are manufactured with dimensions (specifically, the outside diameter and sometimes wall thickness) that match the historical IPS standards for a given nominal pipe size.
How PVC Relates to the IPS Standard
- IPS is a sizing system. It defines the standard dimensions (like outside diameter) for pipes of a given nominal size (e.g., 1 inch, 2 inches).
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a material. It's a type of plastic commonly used to manufacture pipes.
- In North America, PVC pipe is manufactured to conform to the IPS sizing standard. This ensures that a 2-inch PVC pipe can potentially connect to a fitting or another pipe also sized according to the 2-inch IPS standard.
Therefore, while a PVC pipe is not made of iron (which the "iron pipe size" name might imply about the original pipes), its physical size corresponds to the dimensions defined by the IPS system.
Key Takeaways
- IPS = A standard for pipe dimensions.
- PVC = A material used for making pipes.
- North American PVC pipe is sized according to the IPS standard.
In summary, PVC pipe utilizes the IPS sizing system to define its dimensions, making it compatible with other components designed to the same standard, even though PVC is a modern plastic material and IPS originated from iron pipes.
