Plumbing Systems

Today there are more material choices for plumbing systems than ever before.  Although copper once dominated the market, it has steadily lost ground to higher performing, more reliable alternatives such as chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) and cross-linked polyethylene (PEX)—which are both approved for residential and commercial potable water applications. 

Both have their advantages.  That’s why Lubrizol has chosen to offer both materials in its FBC Building Solutions portfolio.  In fact, we are the only global manufacturer of both CPVC and PEX plumbing systems in order to offer you a choice to experience the best of both worlds.

In most cases, personal preference determines whether CPVC or PEX pipe and fittings are chosen.  CPVC is often preferred for its straight, professional appearance.  Its simple solvent cement joining system requires only a few inexpensive cutting tools and yields a reliable joint within a matter of minutes.  It is also available in larger diameters to provide a dependable, cost-effective alternative for mains and risers in larger buildings.  From an environmental standpoint, CPVC requires less energy to produce than any other piping material.

Proponents of PEX, on the other hand, like its superior flexibility, which facilitates installations even in the most challenging designs.  It also offers a fast and easy mechanical joining system.

Both materials perform equally well with regard to corrosion resistance.  Neither CPVC nor PEX will ever pit, scale or corrode—regardless of the pH level of the water.  That means a longer, reliable performance and full water carrying capacity throughout the life of the system.  In addition, there are no concerns of copper leaching into the water to create concerns of possible copper contamination.  Both materials also offer a quieter operation.

Beyond proven product performance, all of our plumbing products are backed by the industry’s largest network of technical experts.  So whether you choose CPVC or PEX, you know that your system is backed by the extensive resources of the industry’s leader in piping technology.

In order to meet the specific needs of various markets and applications, we have created a full line of plumbing products, including:

FlowGuard Gold® CPVC pipe and fittings  – the most specified non-metallic plumbing system in the U.S.

Corzan® CPVC piping systems  – larger diameter piping for use in mains and risers with all of the same benefits of FlowGuard Gold CPVC pipe and fittings.

FlowGuard™ Flex PEX Piping  – offers multi-layer design for added protection to ensure uncompromised performance.  It is the industry’s most flexible PEX pipe on the market today.  No other PEX piping system is faster or easier to install.

FlowGuard® Bendable Piping   – our highly reliable, multi-layer composite pipe combines the corrosion-resistant benefits of CPVC with the strength and durability of aluminum to offer the ultimate piping system enhancement

FlowGuard® MultiPort water distribution manifold  – ideal for both residential and commercial applications and can adapt to either CPVC or PEX piping. This patent-pending manifold allows for any number of ports during installation while easily accommodating future expansion.  Since it utilizes solvent cement joints, there are no mechanical joints to cause concerns of possible leaking. And, it’s fully corrosion resistant.

Building on the CPVC technology used to make today’s advanced plumbing systems, we also offer today’s most specified non-metallic fire sprinkler system in the world……..

BlazeMaster® CPVC Fire Sprinkler Systems   – for use in fire sprinkler applications, offering the same easy installation and corrosion resistance as FlowGuard Gold pipe and fittings.