## Common ground
All options are components used in sanitary systems, such as pipes, fittings, or fixtures.
## Options at a glance
**3922 – Plastic material**
- **Defining trait:** Made from synthetic polymers like PVC or PP, lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
- **Typical examples:** PVC drain pipes, plastic toilet tanks, shower trays.
- **Best fit when:** Durability in wet environments and low cost are priorities.
**4016.99 – Rubber**
- **Defining trait:** Flexible, elastic material used for seals and gaskets.
- **Typical examples:** O-rings, rubber washers, hose connectors.
- **Best fit when:** Sealing or vibration absorption is needed.
**6910 – Ceramic**
- **Defining trait:** Fired clay, hard and non-porous; often used in high-end fixtures.
- **Typical examples:** Toilet bowls, bathroom sinks, ceramic tiles.
- **Best fit when:** Aesthetic quality, hygiene, and resistance to stains are key.
**7017 – Glass**
- **Defining trait:** Transparent, chemically inert, but fragile.
- **Typical examples:** Shower enclosures, glass basin inserts, mirror panels.
- **Best fit when:** Visibility or modern design is desired.
**7324 – Iron or steel**
- **Defining trait:** Strong and durable; often used in structural or high-pressure parts.
- **Typical examples:** Steel pipe fittings, iron valves, support brackets.
- **Best fit when:** High strength and load-bearing capacity are required.
**7418.20 – Copper**
- **Defining trait:** Excellent thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance; used in plumbing.
- **Typical examples:** Copper water pipes, fittings, radiators.
- **Best fit when:** Long-term reliability and heat transfer matter.
**7508.90 – Nickel**
- **Defining trait:** Highly corrosion-resistant, often used in alloys or plating.
- **Typical examples:** Nickel-plated faucets, industrial valves, chemical-resistant fittings.
- **Best fit when:** Extreme resistance to rust and wear is needed.
**7615.20 – Aluminium**
- **Defining trait:** Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easily machined.
- **Typical examples:** Shower frames, lightweight pipe joints, bathroom fixtures.
- **Best fit when:** Weight reduction and modern appearance are important.
## Key differences
| Option | Material Type | Durability | Corrosion Resistance | Common Use Case |
|--------|----------------|------------|------------------------|------------------|
| 3922 | Plastic | Medium | High | General plumbing |
| 4016.99| Rubber | Low | Medium | Seals and gaskets |
| 6910 | Ceramic | High | Very high | Fixtures (toilets) |
| 7017 | Glass | Low | Very high | Enclosures, design |
| 7324 | Iron/Steel | Very high | Low (unless coated) | Structural parts |
| 7418.20| Copper | High | High | Water pipes |
| 7508.90| Nickel | Very high | Exceptional | Harsh environments |
| 7615.20| Aluminium | Medium | High (natural oxide) | Lightweight fixtures |
## How to choose
- Is the component a seal or gasket? → 4016.99
- Is it a visible fixture like a toilet or sink? → 6910
- Does it need to be transparent or decorative? → 7017
- Is it part of a high-pressure or heavy-duty system? → 7324
- Is it used for hot water or long-term plumbing? → 7418.20
- Is corrosion resistance the top priority? → 7508.90
- Is weight and modern design important? → 7615.20
- Is it a general-purpose pipe or fitting with low cost in mind? → 3922
## Overlaps & pitfalls
- A copper pipe (7418.20) may also be nickel-plated (7508.90), but the primary material determines classification.
- Plastic components (3922) may include rubber seals (4016.99) as parts—choose based on the main component.
- No option is vague, but "ceramic" and "glass" can be confused; ceramic is opaque and fired clay, glass is transparent and brittle.
- If multiple materials are used, prioritize the **main structural or functional material**