With the rapid growth of the water treatment industry, aquaculture and agricultural markets, the demand for PVC pipes and fittings has skyrocketed.

Recently, African Pipes, Fittings and Valves (APVF) re-introduced the original FIP brand of PVC pressure fittings after a change in marketing strategy to accommodate the needs of the South African market.

Image credit: African Pipes, Fittings and Valves

Every PVC fitting must be joined to the pipe with a glue, which is known as a cement, as this requires a fusion or welding together. During this process, the surfaces of the products soften and undergo a chemical change brought about by the cement. The demand for PVC cement has grown commensurately with the demand for fittings, and there are only two major active suppliers, one of which saw a growth of nearly 35% in 2017 despite a depressed economy.

Missing from the players in the local market have been the products of US company IPS Corporation, which was founded in 1954. Today it is the trusted leader in manufacturing solvent cements, adhesives and components for the plumbing, construction and plastic fabrication industries. It’s core brands include Weld-On, Water-tite, Test-tite, Guy-gray, Truebro and Studor.

All Weld-On products carry the VOC Volatile Organic Compound certification, which limits the emissions of toxins into the environment. Products also meet NSF, UPC and CSA standards and are safe to use in potable water, turf irrigation, pool and fire protection applications.

APVF introduces the Weld-On range this month (January), to be sold alongside FIP. All products are available through the APVF branch network in Durban, Cape Town, Nelspruit, Port Elizabeth and Cape Town.