Length of pipes

It is conventional to use rigid PVC pipes of lengths between 3m and 6m in all applications although it is also possible to use pipes in lengths of up to 12 m on special projects. These relatively short lengths allow rigid PVC pipes to be stored and transported easily and also ensure that they are very easy to install. The short lengths also eliminate any problems associated with longitudinal bending.

Rigid PVC pipes are easy to handle manually as the weight of each section is relatively low. The assembly of rigid PVC pipe sections and their connections to other pipe fittings can be undertaken by using a sealing ring or, for some industrial applications, by the use of an adhesive; this depends for which application the pipes will be used, or on the different traditions country by country.

Short section lengths of rigid PVC pipes make it easy to install and to adjust the length at junctions etc. Rigid PVC pipes can also be repaired quickly and easily with only a short length of pipe needing to be removed.

In different countries when talking about the measurement of lengths of pipe there are two different measurements used and they are: "without socket" known as the working length, or "with socket" known as the overall length.