Economical, Efficient Protection

With fire protection mandated in most commercial buildings today, buildings professionals continue to look for fire sprinkler system solutions that are both cost-effective and easy to install. They are discovering the advantages of CPVC fire sprinkler systems, which offer proven performance in high-rise condominiums, hotels, office buildings, healthcare facilities, dormitories, schools, historical buildings, and single- and multi-family dwellings.

The trend toward installing CPVC fire sprinkler systems in light hazard commercial buildings is due to the product’s ease of installation and lasting performance.

Cost-effective Installations
The installation of CPVC fire sprinkler systems in new and retrofit applications is faster and easier than metal systems, helping meet project deadlines and cost efficiencies. For example, CPVC fire sprinkler systems are easily retrofitted in hotels and offer a higher occupancy rate over metal systems during installation. In addition, CPVC systems ensure that the noise level and intrusiveness are kept to a minimum. CPVC fire sprinkler installations in new commercial construction install at a quicker pace than metal systems, reducing delays in the project.

While changes in many traditional sprinkler installations may delay construction due to off-site fabrication, CPVC pipes can be cut on-site to exact measurements. And, CPVC systems’ simple one-step joining system allows sprinkler contractors to work side-by-side with other trades.

By eliminating shop fabrication and heavy equipment, CPVC fire sprinkler systems allow a cleaner, quieter, and faster installation. The sprinkler systems also weigh substantially less – CPVC pipe weighs approximately one-sixth the weight of steel (Schedule 10) pipe.

Lasting Performance
Another benefit for buildings professionals who select CPVC for their sprinkler installations is that the long-lasting system offers reduced maintenance compared to metal systems. When properly installed and maintained, CPVC fire sprinkler systems will not leak or damage the appearance of the walls. Builders can point to CPVCs over a 40-year track record of success in a variety of applications.

The secret of CPVC’s success is the combined advantages of fast installation, hydraulic superiority, corrosion resistance, low flamespread, and low smoke emission levels that ensure long-term reliability. CPVC offers superior flow characteristics for better hydraulic design with a Hazen Williams “C” factor of 150 and is designed to a 50-year life expectancy with a safety factor of two. CPVC is corrosion resistant, eliminating any scaling and corrosion problems. It also is immune to Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC).

CPVC pipe and fittings are listed by Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Underwriters Laboratories of Canada, and Loss Prevention Council, and are Factory Mutual (FM) approved for light hazard and residential occupancies. The pipe and fittings are accepted for use in all three major model codes and meet National Fire Protection Association NFPA 13, 13D, and 13R sprinkler standards. CPVC systems are also certified by NSF International for use with potable water and exceed ASTM standards.

Gary L. Johnson, BlazeMaster® fire sprinkler systems, Cleveland, has been active in the fire sprinkler industry for 26 years, most of which has been as a fire sprinkler contractor. Call 1-888-234-2436 or visit (www.blazemaster.com).