An easy installation process is a key reason BlazeMaster® Fire Protection System is the most specified nonmetallic fire protection system in the world. Cutting and joining the CPVC pipe is a quick, simple and highly reliable process.
First, let’s review the key elements. BlazeMaster CPVC uses a solvent cement joining process. Solvent cement fuses the pipe and fittings to create one continuous piece of thermoplastic.
Be careful: the terms “glue” and “solvent cement” are often used interchangeably in discussions about CPVC installation. They work in completely different ways. Solvent cement creates a permanent bond – the joint becomes the strongest point of the system. By comparison, glue simply sticks materials together. Under pressure, the joints will likely break. Solvent cement should always be used.
Here’s a three-step overview of the right way to install BlazeMaster CPVC. Even if you’re an experienced installer, the following tips will provide a refresher to help ensure your project goes smoothly.
1. Make the Cut
- Cut squarely to provide the maximum surface for bonding. Use a ratchet cutter, wheel-type plastic tubing cutter, power saw or fine-tooth saw. Use a miter box when cutting with a hand saw. Do not use a ratchet cutter if temperatures are below 10 C/50 F or when replacing or repairing existing CPVC piping.
- Use a chamfering tool to remove burrs and filings that can prevent the pipes and fittings from contacting properly. Be sure to remove burrs and filings from inside and outside the pipe.
- Create a slight bevel at the end of the pipe so you can ease the pipe into the fitting more easily. This prevents solvent cement from being pushed into the joint.
- Wipe off any debris and moisture from the end of the pipe and the fitting socket. Moisture can slow the curing process and reduce the joint strength.
- Test the pipe and fitting to ensure a snug fit.
2. Apply Solvent Cement
- Work safely by using personal protective equipment such as safety goggles and gloves. Ensure the work area is properly ventilated. Do not eat, smoke or drink while using solvent cement.
- Use a natural bristle brush or dauber half the size of the pipe diameter to apply the cement. Start on the outside of the pipe, then, without dipping the dauber back into the solvent cement can, apply cement to the inside of the fitting.
- Use two coats, starting with a heavy, even coat to the outside of the pipe end, then a medium coat inside the fitting socket. If the pipe is larger 5 cm, apply a second coat on the pipe end.
- Do not allow solvent cement to puddle inside the fittings and pipe.
3. Assemble the Pipe and Fitting
- Insert the pipe end into the socket while rotating the pipe ¼ of a turn until the fitting stop is reached.
- Hold the assembly in place for 30 seconds to allow the pieces to set. You should see a bead of cement around the joint. If you don’t see a bead, you may not have used enough cement and the fitting must be discarded. You can wipe off excessive bead with a rag.
- Allow the cement to cure, or harden. The joint is considered fully cured once the solvent evaporates fully. Follow the pipe manufacturer’s cure schedules at all times for pressure, pipe size and temperature.
By following these basic procedures, you can complete your next project safely and efficiently while ensuring the system will work properly for decades to come.
