flexpvc.com
flexpvc.com
When is "schedule 40" not schedule 40?
There are two "Schedule 40" ratings.
One is for dimensions and the other is for usage. Our flexible PVC is the same dimensions as Sch 40 pipe, but it's different from rigid pvc pipe in 2 very big ways:
1) Flexible PVC pipe is not rated for potable (drinking) water, and
2) Flexible PVC pipe will not take the same pressure rigid pvc will. (See PVC Pipe pressure & dimension chart.)
Also, Flexible PVC pipe is treated as a hose by the building industry, not a pipe.
Thus our hose fits Schedule 40 fittings (dimensionally) and can be used in place of schedule 40 pipe for many applications, but it does not meet all the requirements for schedule 40 pipe. (If you look at the specification on the PVC Pipe pressure & dimension page you'll see the pressure ratings are not the same as schedule 40 pipe.)
So, while we call it "flexible pvc pipe" in reality it's a hose that fits perfectly into schedule 40 fittings, but it has a lower pressure rating, can't take dead head pressure and it not approved for potable water.
(Potable water means approved for human consumption.)
Irrigation, fish, nurseries, farming, livestock, etc are all okay provided you don't exceed the pressure ratings.
There is also some information on this on Understanding and Identifying Your Pipe & Fittings.
