What size PVC pipe do I buy to build my PVC project?

Not all PVC pipe will fit Klever Cages PVC connectors. It can be frustrating and challenging buying the right pipe to fit the connectors. Klever Cages supplies 5 different sizes of PVC connectors that will fit PVC plumbing pressure pipe.

Topics we will cover in this blog are:

• The outside diameter of the pipe is not the size printed on the PVC pipe.
• Why will a PVC connector from Klever Cages not fit poly, metal or electrical pipe?
• What does PN mean as written of the pipe? 
• Difference between PVC pipe from Bunnings, Reece Plumbing and Klever Cages

PVC pipe size is not determined by the outside diameter of the pipe 

If you have a pipe that measures an outside diameter of 20mm then it will not fit a 20mm PVC connector from Klever Cages. This is because PVC pipe is given a nominal value. This is referred to on the pipe as DN. The table below has the different outside diameters required to fit PVC connectors from Klever Cages. These dimensions are for the PVC pressure pipe as per Australian/New Zealand standard 1477. This information is also listed on the front page of our website, the product description and in the buying guide. The images below shows the outside diameter dimensions of a 20mm PVC pipe suitable to fit a Klever Cages PVC connector and an example of the writing on a Holman brand PVC pipe from Bunnings. 

Table: Dimensions of PVC plumbing pressure pipes as per Australian/New Zealand standard 1477

Why will a PVC connector from Klever Cages not fit poly, metal or electrical pipe?

The reason for this is that the outside diameter of these pipes will not be the same as a PVC plumbing pressure pipe standard 1477.  All pipes will have their own standards. We also do not advise to use these as they will have a loose fit and the possibility of making your project dangerous as they may slip out of the connector causing harm.

What does PN mean as written of the pipe?

PN on a PVC pipe refers to the wall thickness. The greater the number, the thicker the wall size and the tougher the PVC pipe will be. The sizes you may see will be PN6, PN9, PN12 & PN18. This may also be referred to as the Class. The most common is 12 and 18. 

Benefits of using Klever Cages PVC pipe 

• Pipe with no writing 
• Clean white pipe
• Available in different colours
• Can be used outside as has a UV stabiliser

Conclusion

As long as you buy the PVC plumbing pressure pipe series 1477 with the same DN number as the size PVC connector you will be fine. Don't use other pipes such as metal, poly and electrical and expect them to fit Klever Cages PVC connectors. Pipe diameter dimensions can be found on the front of the Klever Cages website, the product description and in the buying guide.

If you are still unsure about this please flick us an email to info@klevercages.com.au and we will be happy to help

Happy building :)

Rob & Louise  

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