Download a PDF version of this article.

Introduction

There have been reports of some fire sprinkler installations using CPVC plastic pipe systems suffering damage due to the sensitivity of the pipework with certain materials used in the overall installation. In these instances, contamination of the pipes and fittings has occurred as a result of being in contact with other ancillary products made of incompatible chemicals. These ancillary products include (but are not limited to): mastics, glues (solvent cements), fire sealants/fire stopping materials etc. Damage in some cases has resulted in damage of the pipework and water leaks. 

CPVC is a thermoplastic produced by chlorination of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. CPVC pipes can be used to withstand a wider range of temperatures than standard PVC.

CPVC pipework and fittings have been used widely in fire sprinkler systems in Europe and America and whilst may have a durability of 50+ years, there have been instances of damage occurring to the pipes due to contamination when exposed to certain chemicals. 

CPVC is resistant to most water soluble chemicals but is not resistant to hydrocarbon based chemicals. This can result in pipes and fittings becoming brittle and fracturing. 

The industry is aware of this issue and manufacturers of CPVC fire sprinkler pipes and fittings are now providing access to product compatibility lists to ensure contamination of and resulting damage of the CPVC pipes is avoided. These lists have been posted on manufacturer’s websites.

Note: Damage to CPVC pipes can also occur due to other factors such as incorrect support, excessively tight hangers, excessive bending etc. The manufacturer’s recommendations should be followed.

Summary 

Developers should: 

• Seek confirmation from their fire sprinkler installation contractors that where CPVC pipework and fittings have been installed, compatible materials have been used in contact with the CPVC pipework system (i.e. fire sealants, fire stopping materials etc.) 
• Where potential non compatible materials have been used, what remediation solutions will be undertaken? Consultation with the pipe manufacturers is advisable. 
• Have available documentation on request to demonstrate that compatible materials in contact with the CPVC pipework have been used. 

Developers should also ensure that other contractors involved in the development are aware of the importance of maintaining correct ancillary materials in contact with CPVC pipes, and that materials are not disturbed or replaced with other non-compatible materials in the course of installations.

Read more articles on the Resource Hub and sign up to receive our blog round-up.

Every care was taken to ensure the information in this article was correct at the time of publication. Guidance provided does not replace the reader’s professional judgement and any construction project should comply with the relevant Building Regulations or applicable technical standards. For the most up to date Premier Guarantee technical guidance please refer to your Risk Management Surveyor and the latest version of the Premier Guarantee Technical Manual.