Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC or Vinyl) is one of the most commonly used plastics in extrusion. PVC is a synthetic resin made from the polymerization of vinyl chloride. It is relatively inexpensive to manufacture and available in two forms, rigid and flexible. PVC can be extruded clear or color-matched for specific applications. PVC is very versatile and can be extruded for applications across many industries.
Rigid PVC Properties
Rigid PVC, often referred to as RPVC, is durable and suitable for a wide range of domestic and industrial products for both indoor and outdoor uses. It is commonly found in the construction sector, where its rigidity, impact strength, weatherproof attributes, and flame resistance are important properties. Examples are pipes, door and window frames, trims, cladding and packaging. PVC exhibits excellent electrical insulation properties making it ideal for the transportation, healthcare, wire & cable and electrical industries.
RPVC is inherently fire retardant, difficult to ignite and naturally carries a “0” fire rating. It is compatible with additives which can further improve these properties.
PVC is fully recyclable and reprocesses well. It can be recycled into second and third generations with ease. The PVC industry has invested heavily in recycling processes to ensure that large amounts of PVC can be reused into energy efficient, sustainable products.
Rigid PVC Applications
RPVC is commonly used in the following industries and applications:
- Agriculture
- Appliance
- Blinds and Shutters
- Consumer & Industrial
- Electrical
- Fence
- Film & Sheet
- Fittings
- Furniture
- Garage & Wall
- Hose & Tube
- HVAC
- Marine
- Outdoor Structures
- Pipe
- Point of Purchase
- Pool & Spa
- Siding
- Window & Door
Rigid PVC Vs. Rigid Cellular PVC
Rigid Cellular PVC, often referred to as Foamed PVC, is produced by introducing additives that decrease the density or weight of the PVC. Cellular PVC profiles are typically used in place of wood or in applications where weight reduction is required. Industries and applications typically using Cellular PVC are:
- Blinds & Shutters
- Consumer & Industrial
- Deck & Rail
- Fence
- Outdoor Structures
- Siding
- Window & Door
Flexible PVC Properties
Flexible PVC, often referred to as FPVC, is produced by adding plasticizers to PVC to achieve the specific durometer (hardness) and impact properties required for your application. FPVC is not as resistant to heat or chemicals as RPVC. However, it is commonly used as seals, gaskets, bumpers, tube or hose in the following industries:
- Agriculture
- Appliance
- Automotive
- Consumer & Industrial
- Electrical
- Film & Sheet
- Footwear
- Furniture
- Hose & Tube
- Packaging
- Personal Protective Equipment
- Point of Purchase
- Pool & Spa
- Seal & Gasket
- Window & Door
- Wire & Cable Coating and Insulator
RPVC and FPVC can be co-extruded together on the same profile.
Reschcor produces PVC co-extrusions and tri-extrusions for many of the applications and industries noted above.
Reschcor’s Capabilities
Reschcor is the industry’s leading supplier for quality, custom-engineered plastic extrusion manufacturing. We pride ourselves on our ability to create a custom solution for even the most challenging of problems. Reschcor’s PVC Capabilities utilize 23 production lines covering a wide output range operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We have extensive experience processing both pellet and powder PVC formulations. Our state-of-the-art downstream equipment and advanced air, water and vacuum systems allow us to succeed with profiles of any shape or size. Contact Reschcor today so we can learn more about your company and understand how we can help your business succeed.