Where can I use CPVC?

CPVC fire sprinkler pipes and fittings can only be used for wet pipe systems. They are not designed for use in systems using compressed air or ther gases.

The system is listed by the Loss Prevention Council, Underwriters Laboratories, Factory Mutual and Lloyds Registry for a wide variety of applications up to and including Ordinary Hazard 3, subject to agreement between the manufacturer, the purchaser, the authority having jurisdiction and/or the insurer.

It is ideal for use in hotels, shops, schools, libraries, residential homes, hospitals, offices, historic buildings and museums, as well as in offshore accommodation modules. CPVC fire sprinkler systems are also approved for use in air plenums typically found in modern air conditioning and ventilating systems.

Does it need special handling?

CPVC pipes and fittings are lightweight and do not need the special handling equipment required for steel. They are tough and corrosion resistant, but should not be carelessly dropped or have heavy objects dropped on them. If improper pipe handling results in scratches, splits or gouges, the damaged section will need to be cut out and disregarded.

In storage, CPVC pipe is best covered to prevent dirt contamination, and fittings should be kept in their original boxes until required for use. If kept outdoors, the pipe should be protected from the elements and from direct sunlight.

What is the safe working pressure?

The system will operate safely at operating pressures of up to 12 bar. Under test, CPVC fire sprinkler systems are subjected to direct fire exposure averaging 500ºC for a period of 13 minutes. The test pieces, when subsequently pressurised, will contain pressures in excess or 40 bar - demonstrating the high margin of safety.

How does the jointing process work?

The cold solvent cement welding process used for CPVC pipes and fittings is foolproof, provided that a few simple steps are followed:

1. Cut the pipe square, preferable with a wheel-type plastic tubing cutter or a fine toothed saw with a mitre box. A square cut provides the surface of the pipe with the maximum bonding area.

2. Remove all swarf and chamfer the pipe with one of the specially designed chamfering tools. The slight bevel it cuts will ease the pipe into the fitting.

3. Using a clean, dry rag, wipe any loose dirt and moisture from the fitting socket and pipe end. Check the dry fit of the pipe and fitting - the pipe should comfortably entre the fitting between 1/4 and 3/4 of the socket.

4. Using the correct size applicator, apply FS-5 one step cement with a heavy, even coat to the pipe end. Immediately apply a medium coat to the fitting socket, then, for sizes 2" and above, apply a further coat to the pipe. Work quickly and push the pipe into the fitting, rotating the pipe 1/4 turn. It is important to align the fitting correctly, and to push the pipe to the bottom stop. Hold the assembly for 15 seconds to ensure initial bonding. Wipe off any excess cement with a rag.

The two key elements of the process are cleanliness and correct application of the cecment. Over application can result in excessive softening of the material. Under application (often shown by a lack of a continuous bead of cement around the socket shoulder) results in a week joint, and the item must be cut out, discarded and replaced.

When can I use the system?

After jointing, allow up to 5 minutes without stressing the joint to allow it to set. The system should then be left to cure for the following times before pressure testing to a maximum 14 bars:

* Note: Raise ambient temperature above 4ºC to cure.

Will I need any special tools?

The only tools that are required are a vice to hold the pipe, a wheel cutter or saw and a mitre box, a beveller and a deburring tool, all of which should be designed for use with a plastic pipe. A strap wrench is also useful for making threaded connections. All the tools are inexpensive and will fit into a toolbox.

What range is available?

CPVC fire sprinkler pipes and fittings are available in sizes from 3/4" (DN20) to 3" (DN80). There is a wide range of adaptor fittings to connect to sprinklers and to other non-plastic pipe systems. A range of hand tools are also available for easier on site installation. The full range is available to browse online, and our latest prices are available in the download section.