Use CPVC for Condo Parking Area?

11/16/2022

Can the exposed sprinkler pipe protecting non-enclosed parking level (ground) of a multiple-occupancy condo be CPVC?

The concern is the effect of the corrosive salt air on the existing pipe that has resulted in excessive rust/corrosion that has been requiring frequent replacement.

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9 Comments

Jesse

11/16/2022 08:07:45 am

You'd have a couple issues. First would be hazard class. CPVC is listed for Light Hazard and your parking area is OH1 or OH2 depending upon the version of NFPA 13 you're on.

Second issue would be whether or not the system is were or dry.

`Short answer is probably not,.

Dewayne Martinez

11/16/2022 08:38:43 am

Jesse is right on this one. You can install CPVC within its listings in OH areas under 400 sq ft.

Todd Wyatt

11/16/2022 08:19:06 am

Per 2021 NFPA 13, CPVC is permitted for fire sprinkler service IF it is listed.

2021 NFPA 13
Chapter 7 — Requirements for System Components and Hardware
7.3 Aboveground Pipe and Tube.
7.3.1 General.
7.3.1.1
Pipe or tube shall meet or exceed one of the standards in Table 7.3.1.1 or be in accordance with 7.3.3.
Table 7.3.1.1 Pipe or Tube Materials and Dimensions
CPVC : Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR) ASTM F442/F442M

7.3.2* Nonmetallic Pipe and Tubing.
7.3.2.1
Nonmetallic pipe in accordance with Table 7.3.1.1 shall be investigated for suitability in automatic sprinkler installations and listed for this service.
7.3.2.1.1
Other types of nonmetallic pipe or tube investigated for suitability in automatic sprinkler installations and listed for this service, including but not limited to CPVC, and differing from that provided in Table 7.3.1.1 shall be permitted where installed in accordance with their listing limitations.
7.3.2.1.2
Manufacturer’s installation instructions shall include its listing limitations.
7.3.2.2
Nonmetallic pipe shall not be listed for portions of an occupancy classification.

A.7.3.2
CPVC is a plastic material, and consideration is necessary when other materials or chemicals come in contact with CPVC that can cause degradation of performance of the pipe due to interaction of materials. Other construction materials include but are not limited to materials used in fabrication of the sprinkler system, additives to water supplies, cable, and wiring, and certain insecticides and fungicides. Compliance with 7.3.2 combined with following the manufacturer’s guidance on installation and compatible materials will help prevent premature performance degradation of non-metallic piping. Mechanical stress caused by hanging methods or bending on non-metallic piping beyond the manufacturers recommended limitations can cause stress failure over time and should be avoided.

The upper service temperature limit of currently listed CPVC sprinkler pipe is 150°F (65.5°C) at 175 psi (12.1 bar).

Not all pipe or tube made to ASTM F442, Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR), is listed for fire sprinkler service. Listed pipe is identified by the logo of the listing agency.

Not all fittings made to ASTM F437, Standard Specification for Threaded Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80, ASTM F438, Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 40, and ASTM F439, Standard Specification for Socket-Type Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Plastic Pipe Fittings, Schedule 80, as described in 7.4.4, are listed for fire sprinkler service. Listed fittings are identified by the logo of the listing agency.

Randy Rathert

11/16/2022 09:42:25 am

Nicely Done Old Boy, The code thread ( Standard Reference )
is always appreciated.

Brad K

11/16/2022 08:41:41 am

Please contact and discuss options with the pipe manufacturer. There used to be instances when cpvc had allowances in situations where sprinklers are installed in areas not required to be sprinklered by adopted code. All of the considerations mentioned by Mr. Wyatt shall be in play. Spaces qualifying as Open Parking Garages by IBC 402.5 can be exempt from sprinkler protection. Note: insulating materials for wet system cpvc must be approved by the pipe manufacturer.

Shane

11/16/2022 09:11:45 am

CPVC is not listed for outdoor use (except underground).

James Art FPE

11/16/2022 10:35:34 am

exempt?

Not Required, so can be Deficient is NOT a way to go.

There are several sections that show if installed, a system must be capable, and be maintained.

And fire systems taken out of service must be removed, or clearly marked, so as not to give a false impression.

No one would accept an electrical outlet, not required by code, to be wired up wrong, on the grounds that it is for a clock, not a hair dryer.

sean

11/16/2022 01:01:50 pm

short answer is no. CPVC is limited to light hazard with small accessory ord hazard spaces

Anthony

11/22/2022 08:09:36 am

Just reading through the comments here and no one has motioned painting steel pipe. It's a 'relatively' inexpensive way to prevent or delay exterior corrosion. Its particularly effective the sooner it can be applied to the pipe. Special attention should be given to fresh cut areas and removing oil that can cause problems with bonding the pain to the pipe. It's not a cure all but it will help.

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Use CPVC for Condo Parking Area?

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