In Class PVC Pipe, what does the '200' rating indicate?

• A. It has a working pressure rating of 200 psi.
• B. It is rated for 200 feet of depth.
• C. It refers to the pipe color code.
• D. It stands for 200 millimeters in wall thickness.

Answer: (A)

The number on Class PVC pipe is all about pressure capability. The 200 means the pipe is rated for a 200 psi working pressure under standard conditions (about 73°F). This rating guides you to choose pipe that can safely carry the system’s pressure during normal operation. It isn’t a depth rating, a color code, or a measurement of wall thickness. The actual wall thickness depends on diameter and the class, but the 200 figure specifically identifies the pressure the pipe is designed to withstand, with the understanding that temperature and other factors can affect the real-life pressure. In irrigation, select pipe with a rating at or above your expected maximum pressure plus a safety margin.