What Is ABS Pipe?
ABS pipe is a rigid plastic drain pipe made from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. It carries wastewater through building drains and sewer lines. The pipe has a smooth inside surface that helps wastewater flow. Plumbers join ABS sections with fittings and solvent cement to create a sealed drainage path.
Quick Facts About ABS Pipe
Category
Drain and sewer piping
Used for
Wastewater and sewer flow
Common confusion
Often confused with PVC pipe
Also called
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Pipe
Often discussed with
Sewer Line Replacement
Key Takeaways About ABS Pipe
- Its black plastic body distinguishes ABS from common white PVC pipe.
- Solvent cement bonds ABS sections and fittings into sealed joints.
- ABS pipe is not the same material as PVC pipe.
How ABS Pipe Works
ABS pipe carries wastewater by gravity through drain lines. Its smooth inner wall helps waste and water move toward the building sewer connection. The pipe does not pump water or control flow.
Related glossary terms: Cast Iron Pipe, Pipe Fitting, PVC Pipe.
Plumbers cut ABS pipe to fit the planned drain route. They join sections with fittings, then apply solvent cement made for ABS. The cement softens the mating surfaces and creates a sealed connection as the joint sets.
During sewer line replacement, ABS may connect interior drain piping to a new sewer section. The selected pipe size and fitting shape must match the system design. A cleanout can provide access for future drain service.
Expert Note
When we work on sewer line replacement, we inspect ABS joints, fittings, and connection points for damage or poor alignment. Our team also checks how the existing drain piping connects to the replacement section, since an uneven transition can affect flow and sealing.
ABS Pipe in Practice: A Real-World Example
A sewer line replacement may leave an ABS drain connection near the building that must join the new sewer pipe. The plumber checks the connection, fits the proper adapter, and seals the joint before covering the work.
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Pipe Fitting
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PVC Pipe
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