🧩 PVC-P – Plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride
(Flexible and soft material obtained by adding plasticizers to rigid PVC. Features elasticity, transparency, and shock resistance. Used in hoses, gaskets, connectors, and automotive upholstery.)
🔹 What is PVC-P
PVC-P (Plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) is the flexible variant of PVC. Plasticizers reduce intermolecular bonds, giving the material malleability and high bend resistance. It is widely used for insulation, hoses, and interior parts because it is easy to thermoform and weld. It remains naturally flame-retardant due to its chlorine content.
🔧 Composition & Properties
- Base: 70–90% PVC, 10–30% Plasticizers (phthalates, citrates).
- Density: 1.20–1.35 g/cm³.
- Softening Temperature: 60–80 °C.
- Chemical Resistance: Good (water, salt solutions, diluted acids).
- Continuous Heat Resistance: 50–70 °C.
🚗 Where PVC-P is used in the automotive industry
| Component | Example parts | Observations |
| Electrical Systems | Insulation, boots, jackets | Flexible, high dielectric strength |
| Fluid / Vacuum | Hoses, gaskets, valves | Soft, airtight, easy to install |
| Interior | Dashboards, mats, trim | Clean aesthetic, soft touch |
| Exterior Protection | Films, caps, strips | UV stable, water resistant |
🔧 Welding Temperature and Methods
| Method | Optimal Temp | Observations |
| Hot Air | 230 – 250 °C | Clean weld without major warping |
| Heat Plate (Mirror) | 220 – 240 °C | Suitable for thick PVC sheets |
| Plastic Extrusion | 230 – 250 °C | PVC-P or PVC-U rods |
| Chemical Bonding | — | Adhesives with THF or Cyclopentanone |
🔩 Material Compatibility
- ✅ Compatible: PVC-P, PVC-U, ABS, ASA, PMMA.
- ⚠️ Good Compatibility: SAN, PC – Partial.
- ❌ Incompatible: PP, PE, PA, POM, PTFE, PVDF – completely different melting points.
💡 ReplastMD Recommendation: Use PVC-P or PVC-U rods at ≈ 240 °C with low airflow. Avoid overheating (risk of chlorinated vapors). Clean the part with isopropyl alcohol and apply constant pressure during cooling for a perfect seal.
🧠 How to Identify PVC-P
- Engraved marking: >PVC-P<, >VINYL FLEX<, >GEON<.
- Texture: Soft, glossy or satin surface, highly elastic.
- ReplastMD practical test: Soft and easy to bend. Smells like chlorine when burned. Warps easily at 70–80 °C without flowing.
🛠️ PVC-P Welding at ReplastMD:
At our ReplastMD service center (Chisinau, Ciocana sector), we perform professional PVC-P welding for hoses, gaskets, and flexible covers, ensuring a soft, airtight, and durable finish.