Can I glue PVC to ABS?

The Short Answer

Yes, you can glue PVC to ABS using the right adhesive. The key is using a glue specifically designed for joining PVC and ABS pipes and fittings. Regular PVC cement or ABS cement will not create a strong, lasting bond between PVC and ABS. Instead, you need a two-part glue formulated for chemically fusing ABS and PVC together. With the proper adhesive, PVC and ABS can be joined to create durable, water-tight connections.

More Details on Gluing PVC to ABS

PVC and ABS are two common types of plastic pipes used in plumbing and drainage systems. While they share some similarities, there are key differences that require using specific cements and glues when joining each type of plastic:

PVC

– Stands for polyvinyl chloride
– Rigid plastic material
– White or off-white in color
– Used for cold water supply lines, drainage pipes, sewer systems
– Joined using PVC primers and PVC cement

ABS

– Stands for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
– Rigid thermoplastic material
– Black or gray in color
– Used for drain, waste, and vent (DWV) plumbing systems
– Joined using ABS primers and ABS cement

The differences in the chemical makeup of PVC and ABS mean regular PVC cement will not bond them together. Instead, a “transition cement” containing both PVC and ABS solvents must be used to dissolve the surfaces of both materials and fuse them on a molecular level.

Manufacturers like Oatey, Christy’s, and IPS make glues specifically designed for joining PVC and ABS. These transition cements contain a blend of ingredients like tetrohydrofuran, acetone, cyclohexanone, and methyl ethyl ketone to break down and fuse both types of plastic.

Steps for Gluing PVC to ABS

Follow these basic steps for successfully joining PVC and ABS pipes and fittings:

1. Gather the necessary materials – PVC-ABS transition cement, cleaner/primer, applicator daubers.

2. Prepare the surfaces – Sand and clean the areas to be joined. Apply primer and allow it to dry completely.

3. Apply transition cement – Liberally coat both surfaces with the PVC-ABS cement.

4. Join immediately – While cement is still wet, firmly press fittings together and give a quarter turn to secure.

5. Support the joint – Use clamps, tape, or your hands to hold the joint tightly together for at least 30 seconds as the cement sets.

6. Allow full cure time – Let joint cure fully before disturbing. Cure times range from 15 minutes to 2 hours depending on glue brand.

7. Test for leaks – After full cure, test joint for leaks and ensure a tight seal before using.

Tips for Successful PVC-ABS Joints

– Only use cement specifically made for PVC-ABS transitions, not regular PVC or ABS glue.

– Thoroughly clean and soften surfaces first with the proper primer and applicator.

– Apply a thick, even layer of cement on both PVC and ABS surfaces.

– Assemble joints immediately while cement is still fluid.

– Hold joint tightly together as cement cures for the recommended time.

– Allow at least 15-30 minutes for cement to fully cure before disturbing joint.

– Conduct pressure tests to check for leaks before using plumbing system.

– Follow all safety precautions – work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear.

Advantages of Gluing PVC to ABS

Joining PVC to ABS with the appropriate adhesive offers several advantages:

– Creates water-tight seals: The fused joint bonds the materials together to prevent leaks.

– Provides rigidity and strength: The cemented connection is as strong as the pipes themselves.

– Allows transitioning between materials: Connect different types of plastic pipes in one system.

– Versatility in applications: Use for drainage, sewer, DWV systems, gutters, sprinklers, more.

– Chemical and corrosion resistance: PVC and ABS withstand exposure to many substances.

– Easier connections: Solvent gluing is quicker than threaded or mechanical couplings.

– Cost-effectiveness: Gluing is an affordable way to join plastic pipes.

Disadvantages of Gluing PVC to ABS

There are also some potential drawbacks to consider when cementing PVC to ABS:

– Specific glue required: You must use adhesives made for PVC-ABS only, not standard cements.

– Fumes and odors: Primers and cements contain strong solvents that can be unpleasant to work with.

– Skill required: Improper cementing technique can lead to leaks or weak bonds.

– Permanent connections: Cannot easily disconnect or disassemble joint once cemented.

– Cure time required: Joints take a minimum of 15-30 minutes to fully cure and bond.

– Not suitable for pressures: Cemented joints should only be used for DWV, not pressure systems.

– Temperature limitations: PVC and ABS glued systems not meant for very hot or cold water.

– Potential chemical reaction: ABS cement can weaken or degrade PVC over time in some cases.

PVC vs ABS

PVC and ABS are both versatile thermoplastic materials used in plastic plumbing applications, but have differences:

Property	PVC	ABS
Full name	Polyvinyl chloride	Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
Composition	PVC resin + plasticizers	Rubber + acrylonitrile + styrene polymers
Color	White or off-white	Black or gray
Applications	Plumbing, drainage, sewer	Drain, waste, vent (DWV) systems
Working temperature	32°F to 140°F	32°F to 180°F
Chemical resistance	Medium – good	Fair – good
UV resistance	Low – moderate	Better than PVC
Impact strength	Prone to cracking	More impact resistant
Pipe joining method	Solvent cementing	Solvent cementing

In summary, the main differences are PVC is white, more rigid and brittle, while ABS is black, more flexible and ductile. Both can be successfully joined using the proper transitional cementing techniques.

Conclusion

PVC and ABS pipes and fittings can be bonded together to create strong, leak-proof connections using the appropriate solvent-based adhesive. Be sure to use a cement specifically formulated for joining PVC and ABS, not standard PVC or ABS glue. With the right glue and proper cementing technique, you can transition between PVC and ABS plastic materials for drainage, DWV plumbing, and other systems. Testing completed joints thoroughly for leaks and allowing adequate cure time is crucial for success gluing PVC to ABS.