How To Make PVC Pipe Swivel Chairs? Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Many workplaces require chairs that can be rotated 360 degrees, but how exactly do you fabricate one? DIY swivel chairs made from PVC pipes are demonstrated here. In addition to being cheap, the project may be finished in just an hour.

Simple tools, a couple of dollars’ worth of PVC pipe, and two ball bearings with an interior diameter that is smaller than the pipe’s overall diameter are all that is required.

What is Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), and What is it Used For?

Next to a select few other plastics like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a frequently utilized thermoplastic polymer around the world. Before plasticizers are added, the plastic is naturally white and extremely fragile. When compared to other plastics, PVC has been around for a while; it was initially synthesized in 1872 and began commercial production in the 1920s by the B.F. Goodrich Company. Several other common plastics, on the other hand, weren’t created and made commercially viable until the 1940s and 1950s. It finds widespread application in building, but it also serves as a sign material, medical tool, and textile fiber. Both the French chemist Henri Victor Regnault in 1832 and the German chemist Eugene Baumann in 1872 made independent accidental discoveries of PVC.

The Base Forms and Functions of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

You can find PVC in two distinct forms: rigid or unplasticized polymer (RPVC or uPVC) and flexible plastic. Simple PVC has a robust yet fragile structure. Rigid PVC has its own set of applications, distinct from those of the plasticized variety, in a number of different fields. Rigid PVC has a wide range of applications in fields such as plumbing, sewage treatment, and agriculture.

Due to the use of plasticizers like phthalates, flexible, plasticized, or ordinary PVC is softer and more pliable than uPVC (e.g., diisononyl phthalate or DINP). Insulation for electrical wires and flooring for homes, hospitals, schools, and other buildings where cleanliness is paramount are two popular applications for flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC can serve as an adequate substitute for rubber in some applications. In the United States, rigid PVC is more frequently known as vinyl and is used as a pipe for plumbing and siding. Schedule is a common term for PVC pipe (e.g., Schedule 40 or Schedule 80). Wall thickness, pressure rating, and color are all major distinguishing factors amongst the schedules.

In addition to its low cost and resistance to environmental deterioration (as well as chemicals and alkalis), PVC plastic’s excellent hardness and outstanding tensile strength for plastic are notable qualities. PVC, designated as resin identification number “3,” is still extensively available, frequently used, and easily recycled.

What are the Characteristics of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)?

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) has many useful characteristics, including:

1. PVC has a higher density than other polymers (specific gravity around 1.4)
2. For financial reasons, PVC is easily accessible and inexpensive.
3. Regarding hardness, rigid PVC is among the most formidable materials available.
4. The tensile strength of rigid PVC is very high.

To describe how Polyvinyl Chloride reacts to heat, we use the term “thermoplastic” (as opposed to “thermoset,” which is a different type of plastic altogether). At their melting point, thermoplastics transform into a liquid state (a range for PVC between the very low 100 degrees Celsius and higher values like 260 degrees Celsius depending on the additives). The ability of thermoplastics to be heated to their melting point, chilled, then reheated without significant degradation is arguably their most beneficial property. Because thermoplastics like polypropylene melt rather than burn, they can be easily recycled and reused after being shaped using injection molding. Thermoset plastics, on the other hand, can only be heated once (typically during the injection molding process). The first round of heating causes thermoset materials to set (much like a 2-part epoxy), resulting in an irreversible chemical change. It is not possible to re-heat a thermoset plastic to a high temperature without damaging the plastic. This feature renders thermosets unsuitable for recycling.

Why is Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) used so often?

Whether in its rigid or flexible shape, PVC provides numerous benefits to numerous sectors. Rigid PVC in particular has a high density for a plastic, making it quite hard and generally rather strong. In addition to the durability offered by most plastics, its low cost and wide availability make it an attractive option for a wide range of industrial uses, including building materials.

PVC is a popular material in the building and manufacturing industries because of its low cost and high durability. Additionally, its high chlorine content makes the material fire-resistant, another reason why it has gained such popularity across various industries.

What Are The Different Types of PVC?

PVC is a popular material in the building and manufacturing industries because of its low cost and high durability. Additionally, its high chlorine content makes the material fire-resistant, another reason why it has gained such popularity across various industries.

How is PVC made?

PVC’s high durability and low weight make it a desirable material for use in building, plumbing, and other industrial settings. In addition to its widespread use in numerous sectors due to its low cost and great performance, the material’s high chlorine concentration also makes it fire resistant.

1. To polymerize in suspension
2. The Polymerization of Emulsions
3. Mass polymerization

Steps on  Making PVC Pipe Swivel Chairs

First, decide how tall you want the chair to be.

To begin, cut six pieces of PVC pipe, three of which should be four inches longer than the final height you intend to achieve, and two of which should be one inch shorter.

Third, with a pencil or permanent marker, mark the spot on the shorter length where the hole will be drilled.

Step 4: Join the ends of the four pieces into a “X” form using the connector joints (available in a range of sizes). Like when you were drilling for the tiny pipes, drill holes in it from both sides.

Step 5: Place the two sets of smaller pipes next to each other in the space between the longer sections of piping, and slide bearings over them so they fit snugly inside without moving around too much. Put a bolt through the two pipes and secure it with nuts on each end.

Sixth, use connector joints to attach the ends of the four pieces together at one end (comes in various sizes)

The seventh stage is to stuff the chair with cushions. Armrests can be added for convenience, but they are not required.

To make a swivel chair that can be rotated freely, holes should be drilled into the pipe from both ends. The chair may be readily maneuvered by installing wheels or casters. Ensure they are fastened firmly before moving on.

Is furniture grade PVC stronger than regular PVC?

In contrast to common PVC, furniture grade PVC is far more durable. Although ordinary PVC pipe may support up to 30 pounds per foot of thickness, furniture-grade pipe can support over 100 pounds per foot of thickness.

Vinyl comes in a variety of strengths; they are typically put to use in applications like water and gas supply pipes (where durability is paramount), but they are also useful for constructing your swivel chair.

What is the difference between furniture grade PVC and regular PVC?

Although ordinary PVC pipe may support up to 30 pounds per foot of thickness, furniture-grade pipe can support over 100 pounds per foot of thickness. That’s because normal PVC contains a variety of other compounds besides just PVC.

Plasticizers (a flexible chemical like phthalate, glycol, or alkylphenol) and stabilizers are added to start the process (for example sodium hydroxide). After that, a distinguishing dye is added, and finally, weather-resistant preservatives are blended in.

What type of glue should I use?

Contact cement or Titebond II Premium Wood Glue are two examples of water-soluble adhesives that will do the trick. At this time, clamps will also be necessary.

How do I connect the pipe to the swivel?

First, you’ll need to use an 18mm bit for your pipe and a 12mm bit, the depth of which will depend on the other pipe, to drill a hole in it. Afterward, they are glued together and clamped with a heavy object until the glue dries, at which point the parts are pressed tightly against one another.

Before you link the parts together, cover the areas where you drilled with tape to prevent glue from spreading.

The weight capacity of furniture-grade pipe is greater than 100 pounds per linear foot despite its thin wall. That’s because normal PVC contains a variety of other compounds besides just PVC.

How to Prevent Damages on PVC Pipe Swivel Chairs

A few precautions can extend the life of your PVC pipe chair:

First, keep the chair out of direct sunlight by using a cover or umbrella when using it outdoors.

Additionally, due to the acidic nature of cement and stone, you should not sit directly on them.

Spraying any exposed metal parts with a clear sealer, such as Krylon Crystal Clear Acrylic Coating Spray, can add an extra layer of protection; however, this chemical must not come into contact with humans under any circumstances.

How to Care for PVC Pipe Swivel Chairs

If you want your swivel chair to continue looking like the day you bought it, you need to take proper care of it. The surface should be cleaned on a regular basis by wiping it down with a solution of soap and water or vinegar.

Also, use a wet towel to remove any mud or grime that has become lodged. But if that doesn’t do the trick, try dish soap and hot water on the stain.

Shake a one-quart spray container full of white distilled vinegar and water thoroughly before using it to clean. Whenever necessary, spray generously on all surfaces (including vinyl). The recommended soaking time is 20 minutes. To get rid of the vinegar odor, just rinse and dry as usual.

Spray dishwashing liquid and warm water in a spray bottle, shake well before each use, then spray liberally over the stain (not on vinyl), and let set for 20 minutes or more before cleaning it with soap and water.

The Best PVC Furniture Ideas for Your Home

Spunky Bar Stool

This barstool has a cement seat and is constructed from PVC pipe and fittings for a rugged, industrial style that works well in any setting. Unlike prefabricated bar stools sold in stores, this one is entirely the result of your labor and imagination.

Industrial Décor with PVC Side Table

Building your own side table may be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, whether you’re furnishing a brand-new home or giving an old one a facelift. This inexpensive and easy-to-assemble PVC coffee table will add a touch of industrial style to any space.

Mini PVC Chair for Your Mini Me

Seeing a youngster smile is one of life’s greatest rewards. Seeing someone tumble from an overstuffed chair is one of life’s most heartbreaking moments. Thankfully, this issue may be remedied and the lives of children can be improved by constructing a Kids PVC Chair. It’s a cheap and easy method to get them a chair that’s just the right size for them.

Don’t Forget the Dog: DIY Dog Bed

Any dog owner can attest to the unconditional nature of a dog’s love. Treats and toys are a great way to show your pet how much you care. But have you considered getting a dog bed to make their day and night more comfortable? Whether you have one dog or a pack, it’s always nice to give them their own space, so consider making a bed for them. You’ll be done before Fido has time for his next nap!

PVC Projects for Everyone

These PVC projects are ideal if you want to enhance your home or way of life without breaking the bank. Make your own bar stools instead of buying them. That out-of-reach end table, what is it called again? Don’t bother with it, just make your own. You can use it as both a table and a talking point now! Make a special chair for the kid(s) in your life. Are there no young ones in the house? What about a dog as a companion? Provide them with a PVC dog bed of their very own. These projects already completed? Send them to your pals so they can share in your enthusiasm for PVC construction. For additional ideas on what you can create using PVC, see our Resource Center.