CPVC is not combustible and will not contribute to flashover
Durability & Long Service Life: CPVC pipe and fittings have a natural immunity to scale, corrosion and microbiologically influenced corrosion, leading to a long, low-maintenance service life that can exceed that of metallic systems. CPVC systems have a 50-year life expectancy with a safety factor of two. CPVC pipe and fittings are rated for continuous service of 175 lbs per square inch (psi) at 150°F. As part of the UL Listing requirements, the pipe is required to sustain 5 times the maximum rated pressure of 175 psi, which is 875 psi, for a period of 1 minute.
Superior Hydraulics: Steel pipe has a C-factor of 120 compared to the 150 C-factor of CPVC pipe. This higher C-value indicates that CPVC pipe has less friction loss, which often allows for pipe downsizing of at least one size smaller in diameter than steel.
Flame & Smoke Resistance: CPVC is not combustible and will not contribute to flashover. CPVC piping systems have a flash ignition temperature of 900°F, depending on the manufacturer. As a result, CPVC fire sprinkler systems cannot be the ignition source of a fire and will not sustain burning. CPVC pipe and fittings will not burn unless a flame is constantly applied and stop burning when the ignition source is removed. Additionally, it also has low smoke toxicity. Testing at the UL of Canada has shown that CPVC pipe produces only one-third the smoke of kiln-dried wood. Because it offers outstanding resistance to fire and low smoke generation qualities, CPVC fire sprinkler piping systems are even approved for use in plenum spaces in accordance with NFPA 90A, Standard for the Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilating Systems.
