Common Issues and Best Practices

When it comes to fire-stopping CPVC sprinkler pipes, attention to detail is crucial. Missteps in specification or installation can lead to long-term pipe degradation and costly remedial work. Let’s explore common pitfalls, key considerations, and steps to ensure compatibility and compliance.

Understanding the Problem

The attached examples highlight CPVC sprinkler pipes fire-stopped with:

1. Ablative batt with an intumescent wrap.

2. High-pressure exerting (HPE) mastic.

Both installations followed ad-hoc details provided by the fire-stopping manufacturer. While seemingly compliant, the use of untested materials, like foil wraps, poses a serious risk. These are often seen as barriers between CPVC and incompatible products but fail to address long-term issues such as plasticiser migration, which leads to pipe degradation.

Why It Still Goes Wrong

Despite the availability of new, tested solutions, outdated materials and ad-hoc detailing still appear on new projects. This often stems from:

• Lack of awareness of updated manufacturer guidelines.

• Failure to consult CPVC compatibility programs.

• Oversight during design or inspection stages.

The result? Expensive remediation and potentially compromised fire safety.

Steps to Get It Right

Follow these steps to ensure fire-stopping systems are compatible and effective:

1. Identify the Fire-Stopping Manufacturer

Start by confirming which manufacturer’s products have been specified for your project.

2. Determine the CPVC Brand

Know the brand of CPVC piping to cross-reference compatibility information.

3. Review Manufacturer Details

Check if all components in the fire-stopping system are fully tested and approved. Avoid ad-hoc details unless verified.

4. Check the Compatibility List

Refer to the CPVC manufacturer’s compatibility list to confirm your chosen product is approved. If it’s not listed, it may be incompatible or on the do-not-use list.

5. Use Tested and Approved Products

Ensure all fire-stopping materials are specifically designed and tested for CPVC systems. Compatibility approvals from the pipe manufacturer are essential.

The Key to Success: Early Specialist Engagement

By involving fire protection specialists at the design stage, you can catch potential issues early and prevent costly fixes down the line. Early collaboration ensures that specifications are accurate and compliant from the outset.

Final Thoughts

Fire-stopping CPVC systems aren’t complicated, but attention to detail is vital. Proper planning, product selection, and specialist input can prevent pipe degradation and maintain safety standards.

If you’re managing or inspecting fire-stopping systems and need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Email or message me on WhatsApp—I’m here to help.

What are your thoughts? Let’s ensure our systems are safe, compliant, and built to last. ✅