What is the difference between pvc cleaner and primer

The primer acts as a cleaner, removing grime as a PVC cleaner does, and it also softens the surface that it is applied on. PVC pipes are joined together through a change in their chemical composition. It is the solvent cement that does this, effectively making the two parts inseparable. The softening of the PVC surface as a result of the primer application makes this bond much stronger. PVC primer is a substance made mostly from two main chemical components: acetone and cyclohexanone.

The chemicals tetrahydrofuran and methyl ethyl ketone, among others, are also added to some products, depending on the brand. PVC primer is naturally clear in colour, but the most common variants are coloured — typically in purple or red.

Or is it simply an unnecessary product purchase that benefits only the manufacturers? The truth is that while you may be able to create sturdy joints without applying PVC primer, it is still an important component in maximizing the strength and longevity of the joint connection.

A joint will still weld together without the primer, but the connection will not be as strong as the primer allows the cement itself to penetrate deeper into the material. The truth is that it can be hard to tell whether PVC primer has an impact or not. However, failing to use PVC primer can lead to premature problems with the plumbing joint, even if that issue happens 5 or 10 years down the line.

Therefore it is recommended and in some areas, it is mandated by law to use PVC primer, especially if you have liquids passing through the pipe. It is important to note that shelf life is based on when the product is stored on the shelf, still unused; and it is based on the manufacturing date, not the date it is used.

So for PVC primer, the typical 3-year expiration clock starts ticking the moment it is sealed and packaged in the factory. Again, like most products in the market today, the way PVC primer is stored, opened, and used also can contribute to how long the product will remain usable.

The cement is simply an adhesive that holds the pipes together but the primer actually dissolves the surfaces of the PVC so that when a pipe and fitting are connected, they adhere and become a seamless material. Since the primer bond is superficial, it is weak and the cement is required to hold the two pieces in place.

This would never be recommended for any construction purposes. So how does the primer work? The active ingredient in PVC primer is a chemical called tetrahydrofuran. PVC is soluble in tetrahydrofuran. When you add the solvent, tetrahydrofuran, to PVC it dissolves the outer layer of the pipe. Do it to two pieces, stick the together until it hardens and the two pieces are now fused together on a molecular level.

Since getting the tetrahydrofuran to penetrate deep beneath the surface is not feasible, you will be stuck with a surface bond, necessitating the use of an adhesive to make sure the fitting and pipe are not pulled apart from pipe pressure or outside forces.

If you add primer to a piece of pipe, you may notice that the smooth surface becomes somewhat softer than typical. This roughness is ideal to help the adhesive bond the fitting and pipe. Anyone have any input on this? Last edited: Jan 10, I wouldn't change it. Primer is similar to cleaner Plenty of sprinkler pipe is installed with neither! For DWV, your joints should be fine. Primer has a dye in it so inspectors can tell it has been used.

I agree no problem on DWV. Hope you have a good day. You must be logged in to post a comment. HP is our little corner on internet to share our experiences, tips, and interests. HomePander is our brand name, as you can see it! Which means even a beginner can do it. Creates fumes Another deal-breaker is that the product exhales some harmful fumes. Joins the pipe smoothly The main reason to use a primer is that it does a splendid job of joining the pipes.

Has a lot of brands to choose from However, the best part about the primer is that there are a lot of brands to choose from. Cons: To not prime Like all products even the primer has flaws.

Lengthy process Another dealbreaker of primer is that it needs a lot of coating. Question: What will remove PVC primer? Leave a Reply Cancel reply You must be logged in to post a comment.