According to available information, there is no chemical solvent that can dissolve or remove PVC pipe cement once it has cured. The cement doesn't just stick the pipes together; it chemically fuses with the PVC material itself, essentially becoming part of the pipe.
The Only Way to Remove Cured PVC Cement
Because PVC cement creates a welded bond with the pipe material, solvents are ineffective. As stated in the reference, the only way to get it off is to scrape it cut it off.
This means physical removal is the only method for dealing with dried PVC cement on a pipe surface.
Methods for Physical Removal
- Scraping: Carefully using a tool to scrape the hardened cement off the pipe surface. This requires precision to avoid damaging the pipe itself.
- Cutting: In situations where cement has dripped or formed large clumps, carefully cutting away the excess material may be necessary. For cement inside a joint that needs separation, the joint itself typically needs to be cut out and replaced entirely.
It's important to note that these methods are primarily for removing excess cement from the exterior of the pipe or fittings. Once a joint is assembled and the cement cures, the fusion is permanent, and the joint cannot be disassembled and reused. The sealed section typically needs to be cut out and new fittings and pipe used for repair or modification.
Important Considerations:
- Safety: Always wear appropriate safety glasses and gloves when working with tools for scraping or cutting.
- Pipe Integrity: Be extremely cautious when scraping or cutting directly on the pipe surface to avoid weakening the pipe wall.
- Prevention: The best approach is to use the correct amount of PVC cement during initial installation to minimize excess drips and squeeze-out.
In summary, removing cured PVC pipe sealant (cement) is a physical process involving scraping or cutting, as there is no solvent that can undo the fusion bond.
