What are those plastic pipes called?

When people refer to plastic pipes, they are usually talking about a broad category of piping systems made from various types of plastic materials. These pipes are widely used in plumbing, irrigation, drainage, construction, and even industrial systems. The specific name of the plastic pipe often depends on the type of plastic it is made from and the application it is intended for. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most common types of plastic pipes and what they are called.

1. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Pipes

PVC pipes are among the most commonly used plastic pipes in the world. They are rigid, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion and chemicals.

Uses: Cold water plumbing, drainage systems, sewage, irrigation.
Benefits:

  Inexpensive and easy to install.
  Resistant to chemicals and weathering.
  Long lifespan (often 50+ years).
Limitations: Not suitable for hot water; can become brittle in extreme cold.

Common Names: PVC pipe, white pipe, drain pipe.

2. CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) Pipes

CPVC pipes are similar to PVC but are chlorinated to withstand higher temperatures.

Uses: Hot and cold water plumbing systems.
Benefits:

  Heat resistant (up to 200°F / 93°C).
  More flexible than PVC.
  Used in residential and commercial buildings.
Limitations: Slightly more expensive than PVC.

Common Names: CPVC pipe, hot water pipe.

3. PEX (CrossLinked Polyethylene) Pipes

PEX pipes are flexible plastic tubing used mostly for water supply lines.

Uses: Residential water systems (hot and cold), radiant floor heating.
Benefits:

  Highly flexible – can bend around corners.
  Resistant to freezing and bursting.
  Easy to install with fewer fittings.
Limitations: Sensitive to UV light; not suitable for outdoor use unless protected.

Common Names: PEX pipe, flexible water pipe, tubing.

4. HDPE (HighDensity Polyethylene) Pipes

HDPE pipes are strong, durable, and often used for underground installations.

Uses: Water mains, gas lines, sewer systems, and irrigation.
Benefits:

  Highly resistant to impact and chemicals.
  Long service life even in harsh environments.
  Leakfree joints when fused together.
Limitations: Requires special welding tools for connections.

Common Names: HDPE pipe, black pipe, poly pipe.

5. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) Pipes

ABS pipes are black, rigid pipes often used for drainage and venting.

Uses: Drainage systems, sewer lines, vent pipes.
Benefits:

  Lightweight and impactresistant.
  Works well in lowtemperature environments.
Limitations: Not suitable for hot water; less commonly used than PVC.

Common Names: ABS pipe, black drain pipe.

6. PB (Polybutylene) Pipes – Obsolete

PB pipes were used in the 1970s–1990s but are no longer installed due to durability issues.

Uses: Formerly used for residential plumbing.
Common Names: PB pipe, gray water pipe.

What are those plastic pipes called? It depends on the material and purpose. The most common names you'll hear are:

PVC – for general plumbing and drainage.
CPVC – for hot water plumbing.
PEX – for flexible water lines.
HDPE – for underground or industrial systems.
ABS – for drain and waste systems.

Each type has specific characteristics that make it suitable for different applications. When identifying or choosing a plastic pipe, it’s important to consider the water temperature, pressure, installation method, and whether the pipe will be exposed to sunlight or chemicals.