Building and Construction

FAQ

For your convenience we have categorized the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) according to product area. If you do not find the answer to your question please contact the representative in your area. If your area does not presently have representation, please call 888-234-2436, X447-7393 or 216-447-5000. If you have a product availability question, please contact one of our Quality Manufacturers.

 

General
What is CPVC?

 Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (better known simply as CPVC) is a rigid thermoplastic that provides a reliable, corrosion-resistant piping material alternative to metal.
When was a CPVC piping system first used?
2009 marked the 50th anniversary of our company’s invention of CPVC piping systems.  Since its development, billions of feet of CPVC pipe and fittings have been installed in a wide array of residential, commercial and industrial applications across the globe.
What is the difference between PVC and CPVC?

 Although PVC and CPVC are similar in terms of their chemical resistance, CPVC offers a superior temperature rating as a result of its higher chlorine content.  CPVC is essentially post chlorinated PVC.  While the level of chlorine in most PVC is 56-57%, that level is increased to as much as 74% in CPVC, with most commercial CPVC resins containing 63-69% chlorine.  As a result, CPVC can perform reliably up to 200°F, compared to PVC with a maximum operating temperature of 140°F.
Why choose a CPVC piping system?

 CPVC offers many benefits over metallic piping systems, starting with the fact that it is more reliable over the long term as a result of its corrosion resistance.  It also offers a more cost-effective solution since material costs are more stable.   A fast and easy solvent cement joining system additionally eliminates the hassle and safety risks associated with soldering metal pipe.  This installation process also results in highly dependable joints, which are actually stronger than the pipe or fitting alone.  This contrasts with metallic systems in which the joint is often the most vulnerable to leaks.
Where are FlowGuard Gold, BlazeMaster and Corzan CPVC piping systems installed?

 Since their introduction to the market in 1959, CPVC piping systems have been successfully installed in an endless array of residential and commercial projects, including single- and multi-family housing, high-rises, hospitals and other healthcare facilities, educational centers (including dormitories), and office complexes.  They have even been effectively used in industrial applications that represent increased demands relative to pressure, temperature and highly corrosive environments.
Who installs FlowGuard Gold, BlazeMaster and Corzan piping systems?

 Our high-performance piping systems are installed across the globe by individuals and organizations seeking a superior piping solution.  They are the systems of choice of some of the world’s most prominent mechanical and general contractors, as well as leading home builders and savvy specifying engineers.
What are the flame and smoke properties of CPVC?

 Compared with many other common building products, CPVC offers low combustibility.  In fact, FlowGuard Gold, BlazeMaster and Corzan piping systems cannot support combustion.  They have a flash ignition temperature of 900°F, which is the lowest temperature at which sufficient combustion gas is evolved to be ignited by a small external flame.  Many other ordinary combustibles, such as wood, ignite at 500°F or less.

Nor can our CPVC piping systems sustain burning.  That’s because they require more oxygen than is present in the earth’s atmosphere.  While the pipe and fittings will char when exposed to an external flame, the charring becomes a thermal barrier, which then restricts the flow of heat into the pipe and further reduces the rate of burning.

In addition, CPVC releases few toxins when burned.  Although all materials give off some toxins when burned, third-party tests confirm that our CPVC piping systems produce far less toxins than many common materials.  In fact, the smoke from CPVC pipe and fittings is less toxic than wool and cotton and no more toxic than wood.
Is there a difference between the CPVC used in FlowGuard Gold, BlazeMaster and Corzan piping systems vs. other CPVC systems on the market today?

 Most definitely, yes!  As the inventor of CPVC technology, we have more experience than any other manufacturer.  In addition, we are committed to continual improvement.  As a result, we have invested generously in R&D and ongoing technology enhancements that help Lubrizol retain its leadership position in the market.   We can also ensure quality consistency through our Quality Assurance Program.  In addition, all FlowGuard Gold, BlazeMaster and Corzan pipe is extruded ONLY by licensed manufacturers.

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FlowGuard Gold® & Corzan® Plumbing System
What are FlowGuard Gold and Corzan plumbing systems?

 Made of non-corroding CPVC, FlowGuard Gold and Corzan plumbing systems are certified by NSF Standard 61 for all types of potable water.  FlowGuard Gold pipe and fittings, available in CTS 1/2” to 2” diameters, are ideal for both residential and commercial applications.  Corzan pipe and fittings, available in IPS ½” to 24”, are well suited for high-rise applications, larger commercial developments and even industrial operations:
Do FlowGuard Gold and Corzan plumbing systems meet plumbing codes?

 Yes.  Our plumbing systems meet all model code requirements, including the International Plumbing Code, National Standard Plumbing Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Canadian Plumbing Code, International Residential Code and California Plumbing Code
Why choose a FlowGuard Gold or Corzan CPVC plumbing system over a metal (copper or galvanized) system?  

Unlike copper, our plumbing systems will not pit, scale or corrode, even in aggressive water and soil conditions.  Copper is only certified to ANSI/NSF Standard 61 for drinking water with pH levels of more than 6.5.  As a result, water quality is maintained and uncompromised by copper contaminants with our CPVC plumbing systems.  And there’s no concern over pinhole leaks which can develop in copper systems within only a few years in aggressive water conditions.  Equally important from a long-term reliability standpoint, since our systems don’t allow scale buildup, they maintain their full water carrying capacity throughout the life of the system.
What are the additional benefits of a FlowGuard Gold or Corzan plumbing system for homeowners and tenants? 
The thermoplastic properties of our CPVC products create a system that is four times quieter than copper plumbing systems, thus reducing the sound of running water and virtually eliminating the pounding noise of water hammer.  In addition, the thermal insulating properties of our CPVC systems may reduce condensation, so pipes don’t sweat as much.  These same properties limit the loss of heat through the wall of the pipe to offer greater energy efficiency by keeping hot water hotter for longer.

What are the additional benefits for builders, plumbers and building owners?  

Bottom-line conscious building professionals will appreciate the cost savings afforded by a FlowGuard Gold and Corzan plumbing system.  Not only are material costs lower, especially in light of skyrocketing copper prices, but our systems are faster and easier to install.  This makes them both cost- and time-efficient to help keep projects on budget and on time.  Our one-step joining system can provide curing in as little as ten minutes on standard-size pipe to expedite pressure testing.  From a jobsite safety standpoint, our systems do not require torches or heavy equipment.

Are there any health risks using a FlowGuard Gold or Corzan CPVC plumbing system?  
No.  Our CPVC plumbing systems have been safely used for more than 50 years.  They exceed ANSI/NSF Standard 61 for water quality with none of the pH restrictions that apply to copper pipe.

Will any components from the pipe leach into the water?  
Leaching refers to the migration of substances from the pipe walls, gaskets or joining materials (such as solder) into water inside the pipe.  FlowGuard Gold and Corzan CPVC pipe and fittings, as well as the materials from which they are made, are tested by NSF International for use with potable water (PW).  Our pipe and fittings are NSF-PW listed for both hot and cold water applications per ANSI/NSF Standards.  The requirements of ANSI/NSF Standard 14 equal or exceed those in the EPA Primary Drinking Regulation.

Can FlowGuard Gold and Corzan CPVC piping be used in a plenum space?  
Yes.  In most commercial buildings, the area above a suspended ceiling is used as an air plenum.  Model codes restrict the surface burning characteristics of the materials that are approved for use in air plenums.  Various tests are used to evaluate the surface burning characteristics of construction materials.  The most common requirement restricts the use of materials permitted within plenums to those meeting a 25/50 flame spread/smoke developed index when tested in accordance with UL 723/ASTM E 84 (NFPA 255 and UBC 8-1).  For reference purposes, asbestos cement has a 0/0 flame spread/smoke developed rating; red oak has a 100/100 flame spread/smoke developed rating. 

Testing conducted on water-filled FlowGuard Gold and Corzan CPVC pipe and fittings in general accordance with UL 723/ASTM E 84 (NFPA 255 and UBC 8-1) confirms that the products meet the 25/50 flame spread/smoke index requirement for installation in plenums.  Furthermore, third-party testing has shown that empty FlowGuard Gold and Corzan CPVC pipe and fittings in sizes ½” and 2” tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 also comply with the 25/50 flame spread/smoke developed index requirement and, thus, are suitable for condensate line applications in return air plenums. 

View completed plenum test results by registering here. 
 
Can FlowGuard Gold and Corzan CPVC be used in Deionized Water Systems?

 Generally, yes.  FlowGuard Gold and Corzan CPVC have been successfully used in deionized water systems for many years.  The water will not affect the pipe in the same way it would affect metal pipe.  Engineered designing Ultra-Pure Water (UPW) systems should take water resistivity and extraction quality into account for their applications where CPVC is being considered.

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BlazeMaster® Fire Sprinkler System
What is a BlazeMaster CPVC fire sprinkler system?

With a track record that dates back to the mid 1980s, non-corroding BlazeMaster CPVC pipe and fittings (available in diameters up to 3”) are the most specified non-metallic fire sprinkler system in the world. 
Where can a BlazeMaster CPVC fire sprinkler system be used?
BlazeMaster fire sprinkler systems are Listed and approved for more applications than any non-metallic system in the world.  They are Listed by UL for use in wet pipe systems.  More specifically, they can be used in the following applications:

• Light Hazard occupancies as defined in the Standard for Installation of Fire Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 13.

• Residential occupancies as defined in the Standard for Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies up to Four  Stories in Height, NFPA 13R.

• Residential occupancies as defined in the Standard for Sprinkler Systems in One and Two Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes, NFPA 13D.

• Air plenums, as defined by the Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilating Systems, NFPA 90A and model mechanical codes.

• Underground Water Pressure Service, NFPA 24.

• System risers in accordance with NPFA 13, 13R and 13D.
How do BlazeMaster products compare to other fire sprinkler piping materials?

Summation of Variables Affecting Fire Sprinkler Pipe Selection. 

Table 19 Excerpts from Comparison of Fire Sprinkler Piping Materials: Steel, Copper, Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride and Polybutylene, in Residential and Light Hazard Installations. Published by Building and Fire Research Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology. Sponsored by the U.S. Fire Administration. Complete publication is available by contacting the Federal Emergency Management Agency, United States Fire Administration, 16825 S. Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg, MD 21727.

Property Steel Schedule 40 Typical Lightwall Steel Copper Type M BlazeMaster® SDR 13.5
 
Color Black Silver Copper Orange
Weight of the DN25 (1 in) size (kg/m) 2.5 1.8 0.7 0.4
Melting point (MP) or heat distortion temperature (HDT) (MO) 1427 - 1538°C
(2600-2800°F) 		(MP) 1427 - 1358°C
(2600 - 2800°F) 		(MP) 1082°C
(1980°F) 		(HDT) 103°C
(217°F)
Damage susceptibility Low Low Low high with UV exposure & impact
Corrosion susceptibility / design C factor High / 120 High / 120 Moderate / 150 Low / 150
Occupancy classification - NFPA standards Not limited Not limited Not limited NFPA 13 light hazard, 13D, 13R, concealed and restricted exposure NFPA 90A (BlazeMaster CPVC is Listed for exposed installations)
Flexibility/hanger spacing for DN25 (1 in) size (m) Not flexible / 3.7 Not flexible / 3.7 Slightly flexible / 2.4 Flexible / 1.8
Maximum ambient temperature Not limited Not limited Not limited 66°C (150°F)
Expansion concerns / solutions Negligible Negligible Negligible Yes / offsets, direction changes, loops
Fitting type Threaded grooved flanged plain-type Threaded grooved flanged plain-type Soldering Brazing Grooved Primer / solvent cement (solvent cements have since been developed that do not require a primer)
Compatible antifreeze Not limited (a) Not limited (a) Not limited (a) Glycerin (a)
(a) NFPA recommends that only antifreeze solutions of glycerin or propylene glycol be used when the sprinkler system is connected to potable water

What Listings and approvals apply to BlazeMaster fire sprinkler systems?

Click here for a current list of Listings and approvals for BlazeMaster fire sprinkler systems. 
How do BlazeMaster Fire Sprinkler Systems stand up to microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC)?

BlazeMaster CPVC pipe and fittings are immune to MIC. 
What makes a BlazeMaster CPVC system less expensive to install than a metal system?

There are many reasons why the installed cost of a BlazeMaster CPVC fire sprinkler system is lower than a metal system, starting with the fact that its material costs are more stable.  A one-step, fast and easy solvent cement joining system keeps labor to a minimum.  And, BlazeMaster pipe can be cut on site with simple hand tools, eliminating the need for expensive fabrication. 
What are the additional advantages of a BlazeMaster fire sprinkler system for retrofit?

As a result of the system’s lightweight design and a fast, easy installation process, a BlazeMaster CPVC system offers numerous other advantages that are realized during retrofits.  This includes higher occupancy rates, since the retrofit can be completed in less time thanks to the fast, easy installation process.  In addition, there is less disruption for owners and occupants due to less mess and less noise during installation.  There is no oil to clean up and no fire risk as a result of torches used during the metal soldering process.  No heavy, noisy machinery is required, either.  A BlazeMaster system is also flexible, being able to be installed in tight spaces and close to the wall.  This eliminates the need for dropped ceilings to cover exposed pipes.

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Corzan Industrial Systems
Is there a difference between Corzan CPVC and other CPVC compounds?

Yes.  Corzan pipe and fittings are the only industrial CPVC piping products on the market today to qualify for a higher cell class rating of 24448.  That means our products offer an impact strength that is five times greater than competitive CPVC.  In addition, we have increased the heat deflection temperature to 239°F.  No other CPVC pipe on the market today can handle this higher level of heat.  And, we have the first fitting compound on the market that carries a pressure rating. 
Does Corzan CPVC cost more than PVC?

On a per-foot basis, Corzan CPVC is more expensive than PVC as a result of increased manufacturing costs.  However, when factoring in long-term life cycle costs and performance characteristics, the total installed cost of Corzan CPVC is not significantly higher than PVC. 
What major model building and mechanical codes permit the use of BlazeMaster Fire Sprinkler Systems?

BlazeMaster fire sprinkler systems are universally approved by ICC International Codes, NBC Canada and NFPA 5000.
 
How does the cost of Corzan CPVC compare to that of lined steel?

Corzan CPVC is approximately one-third the cost of polypropylene-lined carbon steel.  If more expensive liner materials or steel are specified, the cost differential will be even greater.
Why use Corzan CPVC instead of polypropylene?

There are several performance attributes that make Corzan CPVC more effective than polypropylene.  First, Corzan CPVC offers better flame and smoke resistance.  Second, Corzan CPVC is more rigid than polypropylene.  This allows for an improved support spacing schedule.  In addition, CPVC has a truly irreversible, highly reliable joint.  Finally, polypropylene is not listed by the Plastic Pipe Institute (PPI) for pressure-rated application.
What are the temperature limits for Corzan CPVC?

The upper temperature limit on Corzan CPVC is 200°F in pressure applications or 210°F in non-pressure applications.  Cold temperatures do not affect the pressure rating of Corzan CPVC, although they will make the pipe more brittle which, in turn, could diminish its impact strength.
What pressures can Corzan CPVC handle?

While not all pipe is pressure rated, Corzan CPVC is.  The ratings apply to a fluid temperature of 73°F. At higher temperatures, there are derating factors for actual working pressures.
What is the weatherability of Corzan CPVC?
Weatherability is defined as a material’s ability to maintain its basic physical properties after prolonged exposure to sunlight, wind and rain/humidity.  Our 50+ year track record with CPVC, which includes many long-standing outdoor installations, proves that Corzan CPVC can withstand long-term exposure to the environment without significant adverse effects.  Corzan CPVC has been blended with a significant concentration of both carbon black and titanium dioxide (Ti02) to help protect the polymer backbone from the effects of ultraviolet radiation.  Both carbon black and Ti02 are widely recognized as excellent ultraviolet blocking agents.

More specifically, our extensive experience confirms that the pressure bearing capability of Corzan piping systems is maintained after extended exposure.  Depending on the specific installation, there has been some gradual reduction in impact properties with prolonged exposure.  If a specific installation requires additional protection from UV exposure, Corzan piping systems can be painted with common acrylic latex paint.  Priming of the piping is not necessary prior to painting.
How is a Corzan CPVC system assembled?

 Proper installation of a Corzan piping system is critical to the performance of the system.  There are three accepted installation methods:

Solvent cement represents the most common joining method.  This is a two-step process involving a primer and solvent cement, which is recommended for all conditions.

Flanging, another method for joining Corzan Schedule 80 pipe, is used to provide temporary disassembly of a piping system or in situations where it is not possible to create solvent cemented joints at the assembly site.  Flanging requires a gasket which is chemically resistant to the process fluids.  Larger-diameter systems (above 8”) may require a flange to be fabricated rather than molded.

Threading, the third method, is only applicable when using Corzan Schedule 80 pipe up to and including 4 inches in diameter at an operating temperature of 130°F or less.
In what sizes is Corzan CPVC pipe available?

 Corzan CPVC comes in ¼” through 24” diameters for Schedule 40 and 80 pipes.  It is available in 6” through 24” for duct piping, although larger duct sizes can be made from sheet material.
Does Corzan CPVC offer good abrasion resistance?

A piping system’s resistance to abrasion is a function of many factors, including: particle size and shape; hardness of particles; particle concentration; densities (fluid, particle and pipe); velocities; properties of the piping system; and design of the piping system.  While all piping systems will exhibit some degree of wear over time, the actual erosion will depend on the specific combination of these factors.  Apart from the piping material itself, the system conditions that will minimize abrasion include: lower velocities (less than 5 ft/sec); large, round particles; uniform particle distribution; and minimal changes in direction.

When these ideal slurry conditions do not exist, the selection of the piping material becomes even more important.  Corzan CPVC piping systems will typically outperform metal when transporting abrasive media and have been used successfully in many abrasive industrial applications.

No single test method exists that can consistently predict the abrasion resistance of a material to the broad range of potentially abrasive conditions. As a result, the best guide in selecting materials for abrasive service is past experience. In lieu of such case histories, attention should be directed towards approaching the ideal system conditions mentioned above, particularly minimizing changes in direction. At the same time, changes in direction can be designed to minimize abrasion potential. Large radius elbows and capped tee bends are usually specified to reduce particle impingement on the pipe wall.

One widely referenced test method is the Taber Abrasion Test, in which the weight loss of a material is measured after being exposed to an abrasive wheel for 1000 cycles. While the Taber test cannot predict actual performance of a material to a given application, it does provide a relative measure to compare materials.
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