Assessing the suitability of BlazeMaster CPVC as we plan the next generation of construction
The construction industry has been under pressure to operate sustainably for a long time, but recent global events and an assessment of future global environmental targets have made it more important than ever.
BlazeMaster® CPVC is developed by Lubrizol, who’s global commitment to increase its handprint and decrease its footprint also applies to fire safety. This commitment is evidenced every day in the product itself:
- Reduced embodied carbon
- Optimum hydraulic capability
- Reduced impact of transportation
- Requires less energy to install
To assess BlazeMaster CPVC’s effectiveness from an environmental perspective, it underwent an independent Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), carried out by a reputable third party, to ensure that our global commitment to a sustainable future continues, and that every brand, service and product is taking responsibility. (You can learn more about Lubrizol’s environmental strategy inside The Orange Book.)
Here’s what happened in BlazeMaster CPVC’s Life Cycle Assessment.
Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
An ISO compliant LCA was conducted by Environmental Resources Management, an independent environmental research firm.
The LCA was to determine the environmental impact of BlazeMaster CPVC against steel, the two most common piping materials in US fire sprinkler installations today.
The following criteria were assessed using both construction materials:
BlazeMaster CPVC outperformed steel piping in its impact on the environment, throughout its life cycle, in all but one category (ozone depletion).
It performed especially strongly in the fossil depletion category. CPVC is 67% chlorine from salt mines and therefore requires less fossil depletion in order to manufacture.
The sustainable ingredients that go into CPVC are key to BlazeMaster CPVC’s sustainability for the future; our pipes and fittings come from practically unlimited sources, and are extracted with minimal impact on the environment.
From analysing both construction materials from an environmental perspective, it is clear that BlazeMaster CPVC outperforms steel.
Assessing BlazeMaster CPVC’s Impact on the Environment
Making long term improvements in the industry is about more than cultivating environmentally friendly materials. You need to engage in environmentally friendly practices.
BlazeMaster CPVC does this in the creation, transportation and installation of its materials:
- Reduced embodied carbon during production cycle
- Optimum hydraulic capability - reduced pipe diameter means less materials needed
- Smaller size - reducing environmental impact of transportation
- Requires less energy to install - no need for electricity or hot works
BlazeMaster CPVC gives architects numerous design and performance advantages, but it also provides the environmental edge.
Start planning now for the long term; download The Orange Book, specify BlazeMaster CPVC and help us futureproof the living environment for the next generation.