Code Basis for Re-use/Demo of Old Pipe?

2/11/2019

Is there a standard or code basis for when pipe is required to be replaced due to corrosion or loss in the pipe wall thickness?

It's usually to the building owner's benefit to examine or replace portions of pipe that are corroded, or consider full-system replacement when a renovation opportunity occurs. Just curious if there's a standard or code basis that would otherwise force pipe replacement.

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2 Comments

Wayne Ammons

2/11/2019 07:56:34 am

NFPA 25 outlines the requirements for inspection, testing, and/or replacement of piping for sprinkler systems. Below is a portion of NFPA 25, 2014 Edition, Chapter 14:

Chapter 14 Internal Piping Condition and Obstruction Investigation

14.1* General. This chapter shall provide the minimum requirements for conducting investigations of fire protection system piping for possible sources of materials that could
cause pipe blockage.

14.2 Assessment of Internal Condition of Piping.

14.2.1* An assessment of the internal condition of piping shall be conducted on a frequency determined by 14.2.1.1 or 14.2.1.2 for the purpose of inspecting for the presence of foreign organic and inorganic material.

14.2.1.1 An assessment of the internal condition of piping shall be conducted at a minimum of every 5 years or in accordance with 14.2.1.2 for the purpose of inspecting for the presence of foreign organic and inorganic material.

14.2.1.2* Where an assessment frequency has been established by an approved risk analysis, the assessment shall be performed at a frequency determined by the approved risk analysis.

Kelly

2/11/2019 10:55:33 am

There is no fire code/standard requirement for replacement of any systems (at least that I know of), and rightfully so. It should be on a case by case basis depending on the state of the system. Also depends on if the codes have changed, and the scale of the renovation the building is undergoing, if any, but that would be based on existing building codes.

In my experience, it is usually difficult to reuse sprinkler pipe branchlines (and sometimes mains) that are 20+ years old. It will be harder to make the connections due to corrosion and the system will be highly unlikely to pass the hydrostatic test. Make sure to look at the system, ask for the O&M documentation, and make an assessment based on the data available.

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