What is ABS Pipe?

ABS pipe is a durable and lightweight plastic pipe, made from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, that’s widely used to carry waste and vent gases in plumbing systems.

Definition

ABS is the black plastic pipe you would’ve noticed under a sink or running through a building. In addition to being an ideal material for your plumbing needs because of its lightweight, ABS doesn't crack easily, even in rough conditions. And since it’s easy to cut and join, plumbers often prefer it over heavier materials like metal.

What differentiates ABS pipe from other plastics is its relative strength. Not only does ABS withstand high levels of impact and temperature changes, it also has strong chemical resistance. Plus, they're ideal for helping waste flow through without obstruction or getting stuck because of their smooth inner surface.

Purpose

ABS pipes are mostly found in DWV systems (drain, waste, and vent), where it helps keep everything running smoothly by carrying wastewater from sinks, toilets, and appliances, and letting gases escape safely through vent lines.

In short, it's about keeping the plumbing system flowing smoothly without leaks, blockages, or long-term damage.

Examples of Use

A common example is the drainage system under a kitchen sink. When water flows down the drain, ABS pipes carry that wastewater away to the main sewer line.

You’ll also see ABS used in bathroom drain lines, vent pipes that go up through the roof, and underground drainage systems around buildings.

‍

Related Terms

H Beam

:

H Beam is a structural steel beam with an H-shaped cross-section, designed to support heavy loads in construction.

I-Beam

:

An I-Beam is a structural steel member with an “I”-shaped cross-section, designed to efficiently carry heavy loads by maximizing strength while minimizing material use.

Y-Strainer

:

A Y-Strainer is a Y-shaped tool that keeps dirt and other things out of liquids or gases that are flowing. It protects pumps, valves, and meters in water systems, industrial settings, and HVAC systems.

Notes

ABS pipes are usually black, so they’re easy to recognize at a glance
They’re lightweight and simple to work with, which helps speed up installation
Known for high impact resistance, so they don’t crack easily
Best used for drainage and vent systems
Sunlight can damage them over time, so they’re mostly used indoors or underground

Explore Categories

General

Standards

Calculations

Process

Drawings

Tools

Systems

Materials

Building Parts