Particularly in retrofits, the option to run fire sprinkler pipe below a ceiling or outside a wall can help save money and speed installation. That’s why it’s important to know that BlazeMaster® Fire Protection Systems are UL-listed and FM-approved, as manufactured by IPEX, Viking and Johnson Controls, for exposed installations in commercial and residential buildings under NFPA 13, 13R and 13D.
There is a misperception that CPVC is simply “plastic” and must be protected to perform in a fire. In fact, BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems CAN be installed exposed. Piping systems that meet all requirements for protected installation per UL 1821 or FM 1635 can undergo fire testing to earn a listing for exposed installation. BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems did just that.
Here are the facts: In large-scale fire testing per UL or FM requirements, BlazeMaster CPVC was exposed to fire plumes between 698°F and 901°F (370°C and 483°C) in various configurations for a duration of at least 10 minutes and, after testing completed, withstood a hydrostatic pressure of 175 psi.
Installation Guidelines
Given this performance, BlazeMaster Fire Sprinkler Systems can be installed exposed below a smooth, flat, horizontal ceiling using listed standard coverage quick-response or residential sprinklers designed for light hazard or residential use. The UL listing specifies two types of sprinklers:
It is important to note that, even if a product is listed, specific approvals may vary across brands. It is the installer’s responsibility to verify the suitability of products used according to the manufacturer’s installation guide, which is also a part of a product’s listing.
Exposed Installations in Unfinished Basements with Solid Joists
BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems have earned an updated UL listing for exposed basements (in NFPA 13D applications) to offer more design and installation flexibility. The updates enabled BlazeMaster CPVC to become the first CPVC fire sprinkler system approved for use with 16-inch solid joists. The updated listing also:
- Allows installation of CPVC pipe perpendicular and/or parallel to joists.
- Expands the blocking requirement to 40 feet.
- Removes the requirements for a 1,000-square-foot protected area and asymmetrical head layouts.
Exposed Installation in Unfinished Basements with Open-Web Joists
BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems also underwent testing to earn a first-of-its-kind UL listing for open-web joists. Unfinished basements with open-web joists in single-family homes (under NFPA 13D) may install BlazeMaster CPVC. This type of installation must use sidewall sprinklers with a maximum temperature rating of 155°F/68°C and a minimum K-factor of 4.2 and must be installed below the joists. Additional design requirements apply and may be found in the BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems design manual.
BlazeMaster CPVC has been used for many years in open-joist systems in multi-family and hospitality projects (NFPA 13R projects). The updated listings for open-web basement ceilings are a good example of how we are constantly working with regulators to find more streamlined installation options.
Exposed Risers
BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems can be used without protection for risers in residential buildings under NFPA 13R and 13D. The risers can be installed below a smooth, flat, horizontal ceiling or below a horizontal unfinished basement ceiling. In unfinished settings, BlazeMaster CPVC can be used with wood or steel joists with a nominal depth of 16 inches (406 mm) or less on maximum 24” (610 mm) centers. Use a listed residential pendant with a maximum temperature rating of 155°F and a minimum K-factor of 4.9. The sprinklers must be installed at a maximum horizontal distance of 12 inches from the centerline of the riser and a maximum horizontal distance of 15 inches from the wall.
Exposed installations can help save time and money, especially on retrofit projects with an existing ceiling, as there’s no need to remove the ceilings or walls to install fire sprinklers. BlazeMaster Fire Protection Systems offer the proven performance that can make your next exposed installation a success.
More Myths Dispelled
While we’ve set the record straight on installing BlazeMaster CPVC exposed, there are several other misconceptions to address:
Myth: UV light diminishes the performance of BlazeMaster Fire Sprinkler Systems, which could be a concern for exposed installations where pipes are in direct sunlight.
Truth: BlazeMaster CPVC retains its strength and pressure-bearing capability even when exposed to direct sunlight.
Myth: You can’t paint CPVC, which would improve the aesthetics of an exposed installation.
Truth: Yes, BlazeMaster CPVC can be painted. We recommend water-based latex/acrylic paint – the most commonly available type of interior paint. Painting tips include:
- Be sure to secure AHJ approval before painting over the markings that include product identification, listing marks and others.
- Paint the pipe after installation when solvent cement has cured. If you paint before installation, paint can get on pipe ends or fittings and interfere with solvent cement.
For more information, visit the “Other Compatibility Topics” section of the FBC™ System Compatible website.
