What are the effects of ultraviolet light on JM Eagle’s PVC Pipes?

All PVC pipes are formulated with additives to resist degradation from sunlight. However an aesthetic change in color may develop when exposed outdoors for long periods of time. This shading of color occurs only on the surface of the PVC pipe and is of a very shallow depth; measured usually at less than 0.001 inch. In light of this, any sun-bleached pipe supplied by JM Eagle™ Manufacturing is covered under our standard product warranty.

Pertaining to research on this issue, a study was conducted by the Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association to determine the effects of ultraviolet radiation on PVC pipe, in which pipe was placed in racks throughout the United States for a period of two years. The results revealed that both the tensile strength and the modulus of elasticity remained virtually unchanged, while the impact strength remained well within the governing ASTM requirements.

In conclusion, it has been determined that ultraviolet degradation will not have significant adverse effects on the mechanical properties of underground formulated PVC pipe.

PVC pipe and gaskets can still be used after prolonged storage above ground under normal conditions, and it is not necessary for the gaskets to be replaced unless there are appreciable signs of degradation (such as cracking). Per the above, pipe can be stored up to (but not limited to) two years above ground. Regarding the gasket, our standard gaskets are formulated to withstand UV radiation under common storage practices of PVC pipe.

For more details on UV exposure, read our Technical Bulletin:
The Effects of Sunlight Exposure on PVC Pipe and Conduit