Challenging deadlines are often part of the construction process, and that holds true for installing fire sprinkler systems. Tower block owners and social landlords will want the work done as quickly as possible to limit disruption for their tenants. In some cases, the installation may need to be done in a limited window concurrent with other building renovations.
Regardless of the specific situation, CPVC offers significant advantages over traditional steel piping that can make the difference between meeting a deadline – or not. BlazeMaster CPVC is the ideal solution when you need a quick turnaround, whether for a retrofit or new construction. As an example of a fast-track installation, BlazeMaster CPVC was chosen for a retrofit of Callow Mount in Sheffield, a 13 storey tower block dating to the 1960s. The BlazeMaster CPVC was installed in approximately one flat per day, on average.
Simplifying the Installation Process
There are a variety of reasons CPVC installation is fast and efficient, but it comes down to one word: simplicity. With BlazeMaster CPVC, one person can complete installation in a given area using basic hand tools and a one-step solvent cement process that fuses the pipe and fitting.
For a contractor, that helps your team work faster and go farther every day. By contrast, steel installation requires a crew of at least two people in an area because it’s heavy and cumbersome to move around and fit into position.
BlazeMaster CPVC’s simple installation technique also helps avoid delays. Installing steel pipe requires an arsenal of equipment such as torches, threading machines and heat fusion tools as well as special rigging equipment to transport it. It’s a complex process – and if the equipment breaks down the work stops.
Since CPVC is installed with basic hand tools, it’s also a safer process. This protects the workers – and keeps them healthy and on the job. BlazeMaster CPVC helps ensure installers are ready to complete the work safely and efficiently through free online installation training that covers best practices.
CPVC’s light weight and flexibility also help keep the work moving fast. Especially in retrofits, installers may need to fit the pipe into tight spaces. That can be a problem with heavy, rigid steel. With CPVC, installers can easily manoeuvre the material through cramped hallways and fit it quickly and efficiently into hard-to-reach spots.
If modifications are needed, work crews often need to pull steel piping down to the ground to do the work. In some cases, they may need to have new parts fabricated, typically offsite, which causes delays. By contrast, with CPVC one person can make on-the-spot adjustments and keep the job progressing.
Ensuring Long-Term Dependability
There’s no need to compromise the long-term performance of the system while meeting tight deadlines. For instance, BlazeMaster CPVC is immune to the corrosion and scaling that are common problems with steel pipe. This keeps maintenance issues to a minimum throughout the life of the CPVC systems. CPVC pipe also has a smoother surface than steel which ensures enough water moves through to suppress a fire.
For these reasons and more, BlazeMaster CPVC can help you rise to the challenge of demanding schedules while ensuring the fire sprinkler system works as planned for decades to come.
