Oriented PVC has enhanced properties, but on heating it begins to shrink and eventually reverts to its original dimensions. Thermomechanical analysis was used to study the effects of orientation variables and subsequent annealing or aging on the shrinkage of rigid PVC. The thermal history of the oriented PVC affected its crystallinity and the free volume in the oriented structure. These changes modified the temperature at which the oriented samples began to shrink (i.e., their dimensional stability.) Higher draw and annealing temperatures can be used to improve dimensional stability; however, their effective use is limited because PVC has a peak elongation at 90degreesC. Increased annealing time also increases dimensional stability. Aging greatly improves the dimensional stability of the material,this process can be accelerated at temperatures up to 60degreesC. The shrinkage onset temperature can be increased without compromising the enhancement of mechanical properties achieved by orientation. (C) 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.