CPVC offers distinct cost, productivity
and performance advantages

BY TINA MASSEL

In order to maintain an edge in a highly competitive industry, plumbing contractors are continually looking for technologies and products that allow them to work faster and smarter while still maintaining high quality standards and a solid reputation.

Faster fabrication and less weight than copper systems, plus easier on-site alterations, are some of the hallmarks of CPVC plumbing systems.

Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe and fittings have provided an especially attractive alternative in recent years for time-squeezed contractors searching for a way to stabilize profit margins in light of increasing copper prices. With a nearly 50-year track record of successful installations since it was invented by Noveon (formerly BF Goodrich) in 1959, CPVC not only offers more reliable material costs, but its productivity and performance advantages, including ease of installation and corrosion resistance, can also significantly contribute to the bottom line.

Consider the many product benefits that could be put to work for your operation:

Corrosion resistance. Unlike copper, CPVC will never pit or corrode. This means no callbacks or insurance premium increases as a result of premature system failures caused by pinhole leaks.

No scaling or water contamination. Even in regions where pitting and corrosion are not commonplace, scale buildup of copper systems can still seriously affect water quality and water flow rates. But CPVC will never scale or contaminate water quality, regardless of the water hardness or pH level.

Fast, easy installation. Copper tube size (CTS) CPVC piping systems utilize a one-step solvent cement joining system that can be pressure-tested in as little as ten minutes. Unlike copper, which is heavy and may be difficult to transport on the job site, CPVC is lighter in weight and does not require special equipment or a soldering torch for installation. As a result, contractors have experienced as much as a 50% labor savings, depending on project size. Additionally, a branch line or other piping modification can easily be made at nearly any stage of the construction process. And if the pipe is ever damaged, the repair can be made quickly, without the need for a torch or lifting device to hoist equipment into place.

Lower total installed cost. The ease of installation afforded by CPVC translates into labor cost savings. These labor savings, combined with lower and more stable material costs, result in CPVC growing in popularity due to its ability to satisfy builder and building owner demand for value-engineered projects by reducing project costs and, at the same time, speeding up construction timelines.

Project versatility. Copper tube size CPVC is available in 1/2" through 2" diameters. Iron pipe size (IPS) CPVC is available in diameters up to 16". An array of fittings and couplings facilitate transitions between IPS and CTS CPVC pipe, as well as transitions between CPVC and metallic piping systems.

Quieter operation. An NSF International test confirms that FlowGuard Gold CPVC plumbing systems, in particular, are four times quieter than copper systems. Not only do they minimize water flow noise, but they also virtually eliminate problems with water hammer.

CPVC is approved for use in the return-air plenum above a suspended ceiling, as it has a high limiting-oxygen index and will not support combustion.

Excellent flame/smoke properties. CPVC will not sustain burning. It must be forced to burn due to its very high limiting oxygen index (LOI), the percentage of oxygen needed in an atmosphere to support combustion. CPVC will not burn unless a flame is constantly applied, and stops burning when the ignition source is removed. In many commercial buildings, the area above the suspended ceiling is used as a return air plenum. The model codes restrict the kinds of materials that can be installed in air plenums. Some manufacturers have performed third-party testing on their CPVC materials and meet the flame/smoke requirements called out by the model codes and are therefore acceptable for installation in return air plenums. Always verify suitability for installation in an air plenum by requesting a test report prior to installation.

Higher energy efficiency, less condensation. The insulative characteristics of CPVC are beneficial for increasing energy efficiency and minimizing condensation. As a result, hot water stays hotter longer. And, it’s often not necessary to insulate the cold water line to minimize condensation in conditioned buildings, which can cause damage to the structure and contents.

In summary, CPVC offers numerous competitive advantages for plumbing contractors. It allows them to work faster and smarter while also providing a very reliable long-term performance. Many of the same benefits realized by contractors also extend to the homeowner or end-user, including corrosion resistance, noise reduction, energy efficiency, reduced condensation and uncompromised water quality. So not only do contractors realize a time and cost advantage, but they are also able to provide a superior product to their customers.

As more and more contractors convert to CPVC, some have even found it beneficial to work one-on-one to educate project engineers on the many product benefits. While no single material is right for every building project, CPVC is growing in popularity and offers plumbing contractors a very attractive alternative for numerous residential and commercial applications.

Tina Massel is the commercial water market manager for FlowGuard Gold and Corzan Pipe & Fittings and has more than 13 years of experience of providing technical and service support. To contact the author, write to tina.massel@noveon.com. For more information on the benefits of CPVC piping systems, visit www.flowguardgold.com or www.corzanCPVC.com.