Spears FlameGuard® CPVC
Spears® FlameGuard® CPVC provides a lightweight, corrosion-resistant alternative to traditional metal fire sprinkler pipework. The system includes CPVC pipe, fittings and approved joining products developed specifically for fire protection service.
With smooth internal surfaces, straightforward installation and a long service history, FlameGuard can offer practical value across residential, light-hazard and other approved sprinkler applications. Every system must still be professionally designed and installed in line with the applicable listing, fire standard and local requirements.
About FlameGuard® CPVC
FlameGuard® CPVC is an engineered thermoplastic piping material that has been used successfully in fire sprinkler systems for more than 40 years. The material does not sustain combustion. When exposed to fire, it chars rather than continuing to support a flame.
The range includes CPVC pipe, fittings, adapters, valves and solvent cement for approved sprinkler systems. Spears FlameGuard products carry a number of recognised listings, including UL, FM and LPCB approvals where applicable. Exact approval depends on the individual product, system type, occupancy and installation arrangement.
FlameGuard CPVC also has a smooth bore with a Hazen-Williams C factor of 150. As it does not rust, pit or scale, the hydraulic performance is less likely to deteriorate through internal corrosion over the service life of the pipe system.
Compared with steel, CPVC pipe and fittings are much lighter and easier to move around a site. Components can be measured, cut and joined where they are needed, removing much of the prefabrication and hot work associated with metal sprinkler pipework.
Our FlameGuard® CPVC Pipework Range
Key Features of FlameGuard®
Spears FlameGuard combines reliable fire-sprinkler performance with a material that is easy to transport, cut and install. Its corrosion resistance, clean solvent-welded assembly and smooth internal surface can reduce both fitting time and long-term maintenance requirements.
Corrosion-Resistant CPVC Construction
FlameGuard CPVC does not rust, pit or develop internal scale in the same way as metal pipe. It is also not affected by microbiologically influenced corrosion, which can damage steel sprinkler systems from within.
This corrosion resistance helps preserve the internal bore and may provide a longer service life in suitable applications. It can also reduce the need for maintenance linked to rust, scale and corrosion debris.
Simple Solvent-Welded Installation
FlameGuard CPVC pipe is joined using an approved cold solvent-welding process. Correct pipe lengths can be measured, cut and prepared on site with a relatively small range of readily available tools. There is no need for threading equipment, torches or welding equipment.
The material is also free from the oil and grease often found on steel products, helping contractors keep the installation area cleaner. These points are especially useful during retrofit work. In hotels, residential property and other occupied buildings, sections of the system can often be fitted with less disruption than heavier metal pipework. The permitted installation method must always be confirmed against the current Spears instructions and project fire-safety requirements.
Better Hydraulic Performance
The smooth internal surface of FlameGuard CPVC pipe creates low friction loss and supports efficient water flow through the fire sprinkler system.
Because CPVC does not develop internal rust or scale, its flow characteristics remain more consistent than those of a corroding metal system.
This can assist the designer when calculating pipe sizes, available pressure and sprinkler demand.
Cost Advantages
FlameGuard may provide cost advantages across transportation, installation and ongoing service:
- Lightweight pipe and fittings are easier to move and position.
- On-site cutting and solvent welding can reduce installation labour.
- No hot work, threading or heavy fabrication equipment is required.
- Resistance to rust and scale can reduce future maintenance.
- Faster fitting may limit disruption during retrofit projects.
The final installed price will depend on the system design, pipe sizes, building layout, labour requirements and applicable fire standard.
How Does a FlameGuard® Fire Sprinkler System Work?
A FlameGuard CPVC fire sprinkler system carries pressurised water through an approved network of pipe and fittings. When heat activates an individual sprinkler head, water is released in the affected area.
The CPVC pipework itself does not detect or extinguish the fire. Its role is to provide a reliable route from the water supply to the sprinkler heads. System design, hydraulic calculations, sprinkler positioning and installation must be completed by competent fire-industry professionals in accordance with the relevant standard and product listing.
FlameGuard Applications
FlameGuard CPVC is intended for listed fire sprinkler installations where its use is permitted by the product approval, fire-protection standard and local authority.
Common applications include residential buildings, care environments, hotels, offices and other premises within the approved hazard classification. Some products are also listed for specific low-pressure dry-pipe or pre-action arrangements. Suitability must be checked for each project rather than assumed across the full FlameGuard range.
Approved Fire Sprinkler Installations
Spears FlameGuard pipe and fittings are designed for use as part of an approved CPVC fire sprinkler system. The selected pipe, fitting, cement, hanger and sprinkler arrangement must match the applicable UL, FM, LPCB or other project listing. National Fire Protection Association standards, the current Spears installation manual and local codes must also be followed where relevant.
Residential and Light-Hazard Projects
FlameGuard CPVC is widely used in approved residential and light-hazard sprinkler systems. These may include houses, flats, hotels, offices and similar properties where the assessed fire risk and occupancy classification fall within the relevant listing. It is not a general replacement for industrial fire pipework. Kitchens, plant rooms, warehouses, storage areas and other locations with a higher hazard may require a different material or system design.
Retrofit Fire Protection Systems
Its low weight and clean joining method make FlameGuard suitable for many retrofit projects. Pipe can be routed and cut on site without welding, threading oil or open flames. This can reduce the risk of damage to finished walls, floors and furnishings. It may also allow areas of an occupied property to remain in service while work progresses, subject to the contractor’s risk assessment and installation plan.
Concealed and Approved Exposed Installations
FlameGuard CPVC can be installed in concealed locations when the required protective construction is provided. Spears also permits certain exposed arrangements, but only where the precise installation matches the current listing and manual. Permitted use can change according to the sprinkler type, ceiling construction, pipe position, heat source and occupancy. Contractors should not assume that approval for one concealed or exposed configuration applies to another.
FlameGuard® Approvals and Installation Requirements
System Listings and Approvals
Spears FlameGuard products hold recognised approvals that may include UL, FM, LPCB and NSF certification. The relevant approval varies by product, pipe size, fitting type, sprinkler system and application.
Some components are listed for residential or light-hazard wet systems, while others may also be permitted in specific dry-pipe or pre-action systems. Always refer to the current certificate, product listing and FlameGuard installation instructions before specifying or installing any component.
FlameGuard Installer Training
Correct system design, pipe handling, cutting, solvent welding, support and curing are essential to the safety of a CPVC fire sprinkler system.
Spears states that its installation manual is not a replacement for formal installer training. It recommends that installers receive suitable training and renew it every two years. IPS Flow Systems can provide information about available product support and FlameGuard training.
FlameGuard Technical Resources
Fire Protection Price List
View product codes and indicative pricing across the Spears FlameGuard fire protection range.
Fire Protection Price List Euro
Access the FlameGuard product price list presented in euros.
Fire Protection Brochure
Explore the Spears FlameGuard CPVC pipe, fitting and fire sprinkler product range.
Prevent Mist Heads
View technical details for approved Prevent mist-head products and associated equipment.
Fire Sleeves
Review fire-sleeve options for approved service penetrations and FlameGuard installations.
Why Choose IPS for FlameGuard?
IPS Flow Systems supports fire-industry contractors, designers and installers with product supply and practical technical guidance. The team can help identify the right FlameGuard pipe, fitting and joining products for the intended service.
UK supply of Spears FlameGuard CPVC products
Technical support during specification
Help checking product and fitting compatibility
Access to current literature and certificates
Guidance on solvent cement and installation equipment
Support for professional installer training
Reliable stock and product knowledge
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the advantages of using Spears FlameGuard® CPVC pipe systems?
FlameGuard CPVC offers smooth internal hydraulics, corrosion resistance and fast solvent-welded assembly using readily available tools.
The material is lighter than steel and can be cut on site. Its dimensions may also allow wider hanger spacing than some other plastic pipe systems. CPVC sprinkler products have now been in continuous service for more than 40 years.
What approvals does Spears FlameGuard® have?
Spears FlameGuard products carry UL, FM and LPCB listings where applicable. Certain products are also certified by NSF for contact with potable water.
Approval is not identical across every pipe, fitting or use. It may cover specific residential, light-hazard, wet, dry or pre-action systems. The latest product certificate and installation requirements should be checked for the proposed system.
Can I use FlameGuard CPVC in kitchens, car parks or similar areas?
Not automatically. CPVC fire sprinkler pipe must not be used in areas where the fire-hazard classification falls outside its product listing.
Commercial kitchens, plant rooms, storage rooms, car parks, factories and warehouses may create higher-hazard conditions. A qualified fire-protection professional should assess the occupancy and confirm whether FlameGuard is permitted.
What type of hangers and supports should be used with Spears FlameGuard CPVC piping?
Use hangers and supports that are listed or accepted for CPVC fire sprinkler service and comply with the applicable fire standard.
Supports must hold the pipe without sharp edges or excessive pressure. They should also permit the required axial movement. Plumber’s tape and basic nail-on supports must not be used. Hanger spacing and restraint requirements vary by pipe size, pressure and sprinkler arrangement.
What should be considered when storing and handling Spears FlameGuard® CPVC?
FlameGuard CPVC is tough and corrosion resistant, but it does not have the same impact strength as steel. Pipe should not be dropped, dragged or struck by other equipment.
Any section with deep scratches, splits or gouges should be cut out and discarded. Outdoor stock must be covered with a non-transparent material, while fittings should remain in their original containers where possible. Extra care is needed in cold weather because CPVC becomes more vulnerable to impact damage.
Can you bend Spears FlameGuard® CPVC pipe?
FlameGuard CPVC can tolerate limited natural deflection to route around small obstructions. It should not be heat bent, sharply forced or treated like a flexible hose.
Any deflection must remain within the limits given in the current Spears installation manual. Where a significant change of direction is required, use the correct FlameGuard fitting.
Will Spears FlameGuard® CPVC pipe expand and contract?
Yes. CPVC expands and contracts as its temperature changes. Its coefficient of linear expansion is approximately 0.061 mm per metre for each 1°C change in temperature.
In many installations, normal changes of direction can accommodate this movement. Longer straight runs may require a calculated offset, expansion loop or other designed allowance.
What can be done to compensate for expansion?
Thermal expansion can be managed through:
Expansion loops;
Pipe offsets;
Changes of direction;
Correct pipe support and restraint;
The method should be selected from the calculations and arrangements given in the current Spears installation guidance.
Can FlameGuard® pipes be painted?
Yes, but only with care. Spears states that painted CPVC is not covered by the UL listing and that some paints, including oil-based products, may damage the material.
Only water-based latex paint should be considered. The installer must also check with the local authority having jurisdiction before painting any FlameGuard pipe or fitting.
Can FlameGuard® replace metal sprinkler pipes?
FlameGuard can replace metal pipe in applications where CPVC is specifically listed and approved. It can provide lower weight, simpler installation, better corrosion resistance and reduced friction loss.
It cannot be used as an unrestricted substitute in every fire sprinkler system. Higher-hazard areas, exposed conditions and certain industrial applications may require steel or another approved material.
Can I connect Spears FlameGuard® CPVC to other manufacturers’ pipes and fittings?
Spears FlameGuard products may only be combined with other manufacturers’ CPVC products where the components carry the required certifications and the specific combination is permitted.
