What is Cure Time?

Cure time refers to the period required for the solvent from the solvent cement to fully evaporate and the joint to achieve its maximum strength. During the solvent welding process, the solvent cement is applied on the CPVC pipe and fitting surfaces and dissolves the top layer of the CPVC material, unbinding its molecular structure. As the two pieces are pressed together, the loose molecules bind together creating one uniform piece of CPVC. As the solvent evaporates, the material solidifies, securing the joint firmly in place. This entire process is known as "curing." Once the solvent cement has entirely evaporated, the joint is considered fully cured.

General Cure Times

Depending on the pipe size, temperature and application, you can begin pressure testing a system before the joint has fully cured.

What Affects Cure Time?

The curing time of CPVC solvent cement can be affected by several environmental and material variables, including:

Pipe Size

Smaller diameter pipes and those with thinner walls cure faster compared to larger or thicker pipes. The amount of solvent cement used and the surface area exposed to the air contribute to this variable.

Temperature

Higher temperatures generally accelerate the evaporation of the solvent, hastening the curing process. In hot and dry conditions, special attention should be paid to ensure that fittings and pipes are not overly dry before application.

Humidity

High humidity levels can prolong the CPVC solvent cement drying time because the air contains more moisture, providing less room for the solvent to evaporate. This can significantly extend the time needed for the joints to cure fully.

Grasping the intricacies of CPVC solvent cement cure times and solvent cement application is key to successful CPVC pipe installation. For more detailed information about cure times, the properties of solvent cement, and CPVC piping, or if you have specific queries related to your project's needs, our team of experienced piping system consultants is available to provide assistance and support.

For those installing or managing CPVC piping systems, ensuring each joint is fully cured according to the recommended cure time for CPVC cement is essential to achieve a robust, leak-free system.