What are the thermal expansion coefficients for PVC outdoor rectangular tables?

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is a popular material for outdoor furniture, including rectangular tables, due to its durability and weather resistance. One important property to consider is its thermal expansion coefficient, which measures how much the material expands or contracts with temperature changes.

The thermal expansion coefficient for PVC typically ranges between 50–80 x 10^-6 /°C. This means that a PVC outdoor table will expand slightly in hot weather and contract in colder conditions. For example, a 1-meter-long PVC table may expand by approximately 0.05–0.08 mm per degree Celsius increase in temperature.

Factors influencing thermal expansion in PVC tables include:

- Material composition (rigid vs. flexible PVC)

- Exposure to direct sunlight (higher temperatures increase expansion)

- Table thickness and design (thicker sections may expand less noticeably)

To minimize warping or structural stress, manufacturers often incorporate expansion gaps or use reinforced frames. Understanding these properties helps in selecting and maintaining durable PVC outdoor furniture.