CPVC Pipe and Chemical Compatibility

The use of CPVC pipe materials for sprinkler fire protection systems is often the material of choice for several building occupancy types when installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s listings. Recently, Ahern Fire Protection invited a CPVC industry representatives inside our company to conduct internal CPVC workshops for our fire protection designers, project managers and installers. This created an opportunity to revisit the benefits and inherent risks when using CPVC pipe materials in sprinkler fire protection systems.

One risk that requires frequent attention is the chemical compatibility of CPVC pipe materials with common building construction materials and products. Incompatible products may contribute to unintentional damage and failure of CPVC pipe systems. It is important that architects, engineers, general contractors and subcontractors work collectively to manage the risk of cross contamination of CPVC pipe with building materials found not to be compatible with CPVC pipe materials.

Lubrizol, a major supplier of CPVC materials has several web resources available under The FBC System Compatible Program, along with the release of a FBC System Compatible Program Product Finder app. This app is an excellent resource, easily accessible and convenient use for architects, engineers and contractors, and includes the most up-to-date building and construction chemical compatibility information.

With increased knowledge, awareness and planning, CPVC systems can be safely installed with construction building materials and product choices that are found to have little to no effect on CPVC pipe materials.

Please contact your Ahern Fire Protection representative if you wish to learn more about CPVC materials or schedule a CPVC training workshop in your facility. If you do not have an Ahern Fire Protection representative and would like one, contact us today!