What is used to prevent issues with PVC cold flow?

To prevent issues with PVC cold flow, expansion couplings or fittings are utilized. Cold flow refers to the gradual deformation that can occur in thermoplastic materials like PVC when they are subjected to sustained load or pressure. This deformation can lead to misalignment and other mechanical issues over time.

Expansion couplings or fittings are specifically designed to accommodate changes in temperature and thus allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the PVC material. By providing a flexible connection, these fittings help mitigate stress on the pipes and maintain alignment, reducing the risk of cold flow.

In contrast, heat sinks, reinforced connections, and rigid connectors do not address the issue of cold flow as effectively. Heat sinks are more pertinent in applications involving heat dissipation, while reinforced connections reinforce strength but may not offer flexibility. Rigid connectors, while sturdy, could potentially worsen the situation by not allowing for expansion and contraction, which can exacerbate the effects of cold flow in PVC materials.