scope:

INTRODUCTION

CPVC is a high-temperature plastic pressure piping system introduced for potable plumbing applications in 1959. CPVC tubing comes in nominal sizes ranging from 1/2 to 2 inch copper tube size (CTS) in SDR 11 wall thickness. CPVC pipe is produced in nominal sizes ranging from 1/2 to 24 inch in Schedule 40 and 80 and several SDR (e.g. SDR 11, SDR 13.5) wall types, with iron pipe size (IPS) outside diameters.

Advantages of CPVC piping systems include:

• Safety of potable water and long-term reliability

• Resistance to corrosion, tuberculation, deposits

• Chlorine and chloramine resistance

• Lightweight, easy to transport

• Available in wide range of sizes

• Noise and water hammer resistance

• Minimal scrap value, avoiding jobsite theft

• Durability and toughness to survive jobsite installations

• No flame used for joining; solvent cement and/or mechanical joints

• Standardized pipe and fitting dimensions

• Professional installed appearance

This Technical Note will explain material properties and capabilities that should be considered when designing CPVC systems for commercial building applications. The content in this document may be used to apply to applications such as hot- and cold-water distribution (potable water plumbing), fire protection, chilled water, and hydronic heating and cooling systems

CPVC piping materials are also used in various process piping and industrial applications, which are outside the scope of this document.

Topics discussed in this document include:

• Section 2.0: CPVC Material Definition

• Section 3.0: Suitability for high-temperature applications

• Section 4.0: Effects of potable water disinfectants on CPVC piping materials

• Section 5.0: Mixed-material systems that contain both copper materials (i.e. tubing, fittings, valves) and CPVC

• Section 6.0: Other Design Issues

This Technical Note is not a design manual. Engineers, designers, and installers should refer to CPVC pipe, tubing and fitting manufacturer's technical data and design manuals for detailed design and installation information.