ABS(Acrylonitrile Butadiene Stryrene) Pipes and Fittings by Carla

     ABS piping was originally developed in the 1950's for use in oil fields and chemical industry.  Nowadays, ABS pipe is used for various plumbing chores.  ABS pipe is made of Thermoplastic Resin, a hard, black plastic called Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, that many of us refer to as ABS for short.

     For several years  ABS pipes have been successfully used in residential and commercial applications, because they offer an outstanding combination of properties. ABS piping tolerate a broad range of temperature variation, from -40 degrees Celsius to 83 degrees Celsius. These pipes do not lose their impact resistance even in these extreme temperatures.
ABS pipes and fittings are a economical choice, less expensive than metal piping and fittings.  As well being an economical choice  ABS pipes have a smooth interior finish; which ensures superior flow in the pipe and are by household chemicals such as drain and toilet bowl cleaners. ABS pipes can be used both in-ground and above ground applications, but ABS is damaged by sunlight and thus is not recommended for use outdoors.

     Properly installed ABS pipes can withstand loads of soil beneath slab foundations without collapsing or cracking. Further properties include durability as well as resistant to breaking, scratching, chipping, and rusting.
Installing ABS pipes is safe and easy primarily because of their lightweight.  The pipes are also very beneficial from and energy standpoint, which is on every one's mind these days.


10 Quick ABS installation tips:

Measure pipe and socket fittings carefully to ensure accuracy.
Cut ABS square to required length using a pipe cutter.
Ream inside and chamfer outside of pipe to eliminate any burrs, and sand lightly.
Clean/Wipe all debris, moisture and grease from pipe and socket fitting using a DRY cloth.
Apply a light coat of ABS solvent cement to inside of socket fitting and outside of pipe.
Insert pipe into socket giving it a quarter turn to ensure it's in all the way.
Hold together until a tight set is attained, wipe excess cement from the pipe.
It's important not to move the system until the joints have fully curred.(see recommendations on solvent cement container.)

You can find and purchase ABS pipes, fittings and supplies in most retail and online retail stores that carry plumbing supplies.