What is the difference between SCH 40 and SCH 10 pipe?

SCH 40 and SCH 10 refer to different pipe schedules, which indicate the wall thickness of pipes and their ability to withstand pressure. Here’s a breakdown of the differences:

SCH 40 (Schedule 40)

Wall Thickness: SCH 40 pipes have a thicker wall compared to SCH 10. This makes them more durable and capable of handling higher pressures.
Pressure Rating: Due to the thicker walls, SCH 40 pipes can generally handle higher pressures. The exact pressure rating can vary depending on the pipe's material and diameter.
Applications: SCH 40 is commonly used in a variety of applications, including water supply, drainage, and some industrial processes.

SCH 10 (Schedule 10)

Wall Thickness: SCH 10 pipes have a thinner wall than SCH 40 pipes. This makes them lighter but less capable of handling high pressures.
Pressure Rating: Because of the thinner walls, SCH 10 pipes are rated for lower pressures compared to SCH 40.
Applications: SCH 10 is often used in situations where high pressure is not a concern, such as in some HVAC systems or low-pressure water applications.

Summary

SCH 40: Thicker walls, higher pressure ratings, more durable.
SCH 10: Thinner walls, lower pressure ratings, lighter.

Choosing between SCH 40 and SCH 10 pipes depends on the specific requirements of your project, including the pressure conditions and material strength needed.