Contact usPVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a widely used thermoplastic with high hardness, strong mechanical properties, and good insulation. It is highly machinable for close tolerances. This guide covers attributes, applications, finishing, and UK stock sizes.
PVC (or Polyvinyl Chloride) is one of the most commonly used thermoplastic polymers worldwide.
PVC plastic is a light, water resistant plastic with a long life cycle. It has high hardness and mechanical properties as well as good insulation properties.
Readily available and very cost effective, PVC provides an ideal choice for a number of applications and industries.
There are 2 formulations of un-plasticised PVC. Type I is corrosion resistant and most typically used. Type II possesses higher impact strength with only a slight reduction in corrosion resistance.
PVC is easily machined, allowing close tolerances without great difficulty.
Stainless steel (or a comparably corrosive resistant material) cutters are recommended for use with PVC as it can be corrosive and abrasive, causing deterioration over time.
You may also see PVC referred to as:
PVC has a better cost-to-performance ratio than other similar plastics which makes it a popular choice for many applications. Here at Penta we have a trusted network of suppliers to ensure we get you the best price on your materials.
It is worth noting that PVC is one of the greenest plastics available. Made of only 43% oil, it takes less non-renewable fossil fuel to make than any other commodity plastic. In addition it consumes the least primary energy in manufacture. It has a relatively small carbon footprint even in relation to aluminium. It is also fully recyclable.
Here are the standard stock sizes/colours for PVC in the UK. Please note we do not supply stock material, the information provided is purely for design and research purposes.
Stock sizes will vary depending on supplier. Please get in contact to discuss further.
Extruded PVC is avaliable in the UK in both sheet and rod formats in grey, clear, white, black and red options.
Rod is available in 6 - 300mm diameter x 2,000 - 3,000mm lengths (sizes may vary from different suppliers)
Sheet is available in 1 - 30mm thickness. Cut plate is also available.
PVC is supplied with a +/+ tolerance, ensuring the plastic can be machined to thickness or finish turned. Plastic is often supplied with dents/scratches/blemishes; for parts that are cosmetic, we advise a machined finish on all important sides.
This data should be used as a guide only.
