Comparison of Fire Sprinkler Piping Materials: Steel, Copper, Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride and Polybutylene, in Residential and Light Hazard Installations.

Published

June 1, 1994

Author(s)

Kathy A. Notarianni, M A. Jackson

Abstract

A literature-based study was conducted at the Building and Fire Research Laboratory of the National Institute of Standards and Technology, to compare characteristics and usage of steel, copper, chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, and polybutylene fire sprinkler pipe primarily related to residential and light hazard installations. This report addresses key variables such as material properties, usage criteria and limitations, system design, installation requirements, economics, and maintenance. Information is presented which is useful for the selection of a sprinkler pipe material. This study was sponsored by the United States Fire Administration.

Citation

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) - 5539

Report Number

5539

NIST Pub Series

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.IR.5539

Keywords

sprinkler systems, pipes, building technology, copper, chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, fire research, polybutylene, plastic pipes, steels

Citation

Notarianni, K. and Jackson, M. (1994), Comparison of Fire Sprinkler Piping Materials: Steel, Copper, Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride and Polybutylene, in Residential and Light Hazard Installations., NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.IR.5539 (Accessed April 30, 2026)

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