Based on the provided data sheet for rigid PVC, the melting point is 185°F.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is an amorphous polymer, meaning it doesn't have a sharply defined melting point like crystalline materials. Instead, it softens gradually over a temperature range. The temperature listed as a "melting point" in material data sheets for amorphous polymers like PVC often indicates the temperature at which the material becomes sufficiently soft to be processed or undergoes a significant change in properties.
According to the Rigid PVC Material Data Sheet from pmcplastics.com, the specific data for rigid PVC includes:
| Material | Property | Value |
|---|---|---|
| PVC, Rigid | Specific Gravity | 1.45 |
| PVC, Rigid | Shrinkage | 0.4% to 1.0% |
| PVC, Rigid | Melting Point | 185°F |
| PVC, Rigid | Deflection Temperature | 150.8°F-192.2°F |
It's helpful to also consider the Deflection Temperature, which indicates the temperature at which a material deforms under a specific load. For rigid PVC, this ranges from 150.8°F to 192.2°F according to the same data sheet. This range overlaps with the listed melting point and further illustrates the material's thermal behavior as it transitions from a rigid state to a softer, more pliable one.
