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Switching to Corzan® CPVC for HVAC Projects

In the building community, one of the greatest commodities a specifier possesses is confidence that materials will perform as expected. For HVAC applications, a material must be rated for the operating temperature and pressure of the hydronic system to ensure that it can withstand the internal stresses placed on it by the fluid being conveyed over time and at various temperatures. For thermoplastic CPVC, the International Mechanical Code and Uniform Mechanical Code dictate conformance requirements.

But meeting codes is just the beginning. Decisionmakers may have other questions, such as:

  • How do I choose the proper joining methods to achieve dependable joint strength, for my project? (Answer: The most suitable option – either solvent welding or mechanical joining – will depend heavily on pipe size and installation considerations.)
  • How do I find out which fire caulks, lubricants and other ancillary products are suitable for use with my Corzan project? (Answer: By consulting Lubrizol’s FBCTM System Compatible Program, which verifies the chemical compatibility of Corzan® Piping Systems with ancillary products that are tested and adhere to certain quality standards.)
  • Is it true that I can design HVAC pipe for flow without compensating for corrosion and scale buildup? (Answer: Yes! Since Corzan CPVC is non-metallic, it will never pit, scale or corrode. Hydraulic calculations for sizing pipe and fittings should incorporate a Hazen-Williams C factor of 150, which will remain constant as the system ages because pressure drops from friction will be minimized.)
hydronic_hvac_chart_cfactor
  • How do I address concerns about biofilm buildup in HVAC piping? (Answer: Corzan CPVC’s smooth, nonporous internal pipe surface carries the lowest potential for the biofilm growth that can lead to legionella, and to withstand the ASHRAE 188 Guideline decontamination procedures requiring very high temperatures and/or highly chlorinated water.)

When you select the manufacturer of Corzan Piping Systems to be your partner, it becomes a value proposition for the contractor. Because, at Lubrizol, we believe materials science is the foundation of a preferred product, but those building blocks are given maximum strength through dedicated field and technical training and support for our systems – systems that we invented, and for which the supply chain is under our total control.

Did you know that, when considering how to ensure a quality installation, a specification can be reinforced by including language that stipulates installers have proper training in the best practices of installing the handling the material being used? Furthermore, the specification can be enhanced by calling for a subject matter expert to conduct the training, and for showing evidence from every installer that the training took place.

Call it the Lubrizol advantage. Find out more about the benefits of Corzan vs. generic CPVC. Before installing Corzan CPVC in an HVAC application, please contact a Corzan Piping Systems consultant.

 

HVAC Design Guide