History

Our history of providing superior piping solutions for residential, commercial and industrial applications dates back to 1959 when Lubrizol (formerly BFGoodrich Performance Materials) invented chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC).  One of the first applications for CPVC was pipe and fittings used in residential plumbing systems.  In fact, in 1960, the first CPVC plumbing system was installed in the NAHB Research Home in Lansing, Michigan.  Following, in 1962 and 1963, additional CPVC plumbing systems were installed in homes in California, Maryland and Ohio.

While the high-performance polymer was first used for residential plumbing, the introduction of the new technology opened the door for a higher standard of product performance for other piping systems, as well.

In 1961, our CPVC compounds were first used in an industrial setting, and now sold under the Corzan® brand name, to provide a highly reliable, corrosion-resistant alternative to traditional metallic piping systems.

We introduced the first non-metallic fire sprinkler system in 1984 under the BlazeMaster® brand name, thereby providing contractors with a corrosion-resistant, easy-to-install and cost effective life safety solution.

In 1985, the first CPVC plumbing system was sold under the FlowGuard® brand name. Made of high-performance chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), FlowGuard pipe and fittings offered a smarter alternative to traditional copper plumbing systems.  After years of testing, research and development, in 1991 we released a technologically advanced plumbing system still sold today under the FlowGuard Gold® brand name.

In 2002, we introduced the FGG/BM/CZ™ System Compatible program (originally launched as the FGG System Compatible Program).  The FGG/BM/CZ System Compatible Program is the only known program of its kind designed to increase user awareness and help eliminate the guesswork about chemical compatibility.

The introduction of our superior performance FlowGuard™ Flex PEX piping system in the early 2000’s further differentiated us as the first global provider of both CPVC and cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) piping systems,

The mid 2000’s brought about other technology advancements for CPVC with the introduction of TempRite® HDX220 technology.  This technology enhances the performance of CPVC to allow it to withstand the extreme environment caused by absorption of solar energy in darker colored exterior cladding and fencing.

In 2008, we brought our plumbing, fire sprinkler and industrial products together as part of FBC™ Building Solutions to provide a single, convenient and reliable source to solve some of today’s toughest building challenges.

But we aren’t stopping here.  Our R&D team is constantly working on new advancements in CPVC and PEX technology.  What will tomorrow bring?