47
I-800
RISER SUPPORTS
Risers must be supported by pipe clamps or by hangers located on the
horizontal connection close to the riser. Only Listed hangers and clamps
can be used. Vertical lines must be supported at intervals to avoid plac-
ing excessive load on a fitting at the lower end. This can be done by
using riser clamps or double-bolt pipe clamps listed for this service.
Hangers and supports must not compress, distort, cut, or abrade the
piping, and they must allow free movement of the pipe for thermal expan-
sion and contraction. DO NOT use riser clamps that squeeze the pipe
and depend on compression of the pipe to support the weight.
Maintain vertical piping in straight alignment with supports at each floor
level or 10-foot intervals, whichever is less. CPVC risers in vertical shafts
or buildings with ceilings over 25 feet must be aligned straight and sup-
ported at each floor level or 10-foot intervals, whichever is less.
Clamps must not exert compressive stresses on the pipe. If possible, the
clamps should be located directly below a coupling so that the shoulder
of the coupling rests against the clamp. A coupling can be modified to
achieve this by cutting a CPVC coupling just above the stop at the socket
bottom. Then, cut this piece in half lengthwise to provide two halves that
do not contain the stop. Follow the “Solvent Cementing Instructions” to
cement the two halves to the pipe at the required location, and make sure
that the shoulder of the modified coupling rests on the clamp. Allow the
assembly to cure before placing any stress on the joint.
Exposed Installations
For exposed Victaulic FireLock CPVC Sprinkler System installations that
incorporate pendent or sidewall sprinklers, Listed support devices for
thermoplastic sprinkler piping, or other listed support devices shall be
used to mount the piping directly to the ceiling or sidewall.
Earthquake Bracing
Since CPVC fire sprinkler plastic piping is more ductile than metallic
sprinkler pipe, it has a greater capacity to withstand earthquake damage.
In areas subject to earthquakes, CPVC fire sprinkler systems should be
designed and braced in accordance with local codes and NFPA Stan-
dard 13.
WARNING
• CPVC pipe and/or system components must not be used to provide structural
support for the system. Care should be used when installing, hanging, or bracing to
prevent unnecessary stress loads on the CPVC piping system.
Failure to follow this instruction could result in serious personal injury, property
damage, and/or product damage.
I-800 2755 Rev_I.fm Page 47 Tuesday, September 13, 2005 8:46 AM
