• CPVC's misconceptions in fire protection systems is debunked through its robustness and reliability.

• BlazeMaster® CPVC piping systems are  the pioneering non-metallic fire sprinkler material approved for use in  light hazard occupancies as defined by NFPA 13 since the 1980s.

• Understanding the scientific basis and material classifications of CPVC illuminates its exceptional fire resistance and self-extinguishing properties.

In the realm of fire protection, a common myth suggests that CPVC, being a plastic material, is prone to melting and failing in a fire. The truth is, CPVC's integration as a fire sprinkler system material traces back to the 1980s, marked by BlazeMaster® CPVC piping systems securing recognition as the inaugural non-metallic fire sprinkler system UL listed for use in light hazard occupancies as defined by NFPA 13.

Exploring the scientific principles underpinning CPVC's functionality during fire incidents unravels the qualities that enable a CPVC fire sprinkler pipe to uphold its structural integrity in the face of flames, granting occupants crucial evacuation time.

The Test: Assessing BlazeMaster CPVC's Resilience to Extreme Heat

By subjecting BlazeMaster CPVC piping systems to rigorous testing, the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) gauged its performance to UL 1821 fire tests for exposed applications.

The examination simulated fire conditions reaching a peak temperature near ~427°C directly interacting with BlazeMaster CPVC pipe and fittings. Upon activating the sprinkler head one minute into the test, sustained activation for 10 minutes showcased CPVC's capabilities.

During the test, a protective char layer formed on the exterior of BlazeMaster CPVC pipes and fittings that acted as a thermal barrier, limiting heat conduction. This ensured water is delivered to effectively suppress a fire.

Furthermore, water circulation within the CPVC pipes facilitated heat dissipation, limiting burning rates. With residences prone to rapid fire spread, robust fire sprinkler materials like BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems play a pivotal role in containing fires until occupants can safely evacuate.

The Functionality of CPVC as a Fire Sprinkler Pipe Material

Characterised by a higher chlorine content—67% compared to PVC's 57%—CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) showcases exceptional resistance to sustained combustion against direct flames.

BlazeMaster CPVC piping attains the top classification for non-metal materials, Bs1d0. This classification means:

• Fire behaviour: B = low flammability, no flashover contribution
• Smoke development: s1 = minimal smoke generation
• Flaming droplets: d0 = absence of burning droplets 

The evidence

BlazeMaster CPVC has been designed and used in buildings such as hotels, care homes, offices, hospitals, schools and tower blocks. All of these buildings have benefitted from a sprinkler system that has been designed for decades of service life. Here’s one example of how the system has already helped to save lives:

Bergen Apartment Building, Norway

In 2006 a fire broke out in a 1920s apartment building in Bergen, Norway, which was caused by a burning cigarette that had ignited a sofa. There were 40 residents in the building at the time but nobody was harmed during the blaze. Thankfully a BlazeMaster CPVC fire sprinkler system had been retrofitted as part of a major modernisation project only three months earlier — this put out the fire and allowed all the residents to leave safely.

BlazeMaster CPVC fire sprinkler systems have passed UL 1821 and FM 1635 safety testing to demonstrate its effectiveness in light hazard applications as an exposed installation. Although established for decades in the US, many in the UK and Europe are still learning about the benefits of installing a BlazeMaster CPVC fire sprinkler system.

Download our free guide, so that you have all the information you need before considering your next fire sprinkler installation.