Besides offering low installed costs, plastic pipe is attractive for non-pressure applications (DWV and sewer) because the smooth inner walls assure high gravity flow rates and minimize the chances of developing stoppages. Plastic sewer pipes have adequate strength for earth loads and high chemical resistance, which means long life when used for sewer installations.

ABS, PVC and PE plastic pipe materials are used for these applications. There are separate ASTM standards for each plastic pipe based on material, dimensioning system, application, and (sometimes) sizing.

ABS and PVC piping have been used for many years in residential DWV systems where intermittent temperature excursions up to 180 F for ABS and 140 F for PVC can occur.