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Fire protection systems are essential in safeguarding both human life and property. They serve as a critical part of any commercial, industrial, or residential infrastructure, particularly during emergency scenarios where rapid response is needed.
Among the core components of these systems, the fire pipe plays an all-important role. It functions as the main distribution line, channeling fire suppression agents (water or gas) to sprinkler heads consistently and maintaining stable pressure when a fire breaks out.
What type of fire pipes are best for fire sprinkler systems? Read on to make an informed decision!
(Copyright photo from https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/hand-drawn-firefighters-putting-out-fire_19184400.htm)
Before selecting fire pipes for a sprinkler system, it’s important to check their heat resistance, flexibility, corrosion resistance, installation convenience, compressive strength, and environmental friendliness:
Fire fighting systems operate under high-temperature conditions. The chosen fire pipe must maintain structural integrity and water flow even during intense heat exposure. If the pipe cracks, melts, or deforms, the sprinkler system won’t perform as intended.
When purchasing fire pipes, consider their heat resistance temperature range and whether they have additional protections, such as fireproof coatings.
A fire sprinkler pipe that allows for easy routing around beams, walls, and structural barriers simplifies installation and reduces the need for extra fittings. Flexibility becomes especially valuable in complex layouts or retrofit projects. It also helps minimize stress on joints and connections over time.
Since water often remains stagnant inside fire protection pipes, pipes may be vulnerable to internal corrosion. This can lead to scaling, leakage, or blockages. Materials that offer strong corrosion resistance help extend the life of the system and reduce maintenance requirements.
Do not forget to choose a system that is easy to install. A fire safety pipe system that is quick to assemble, lightweight, and compatible with modern joining methods saves on costs and reduces the likelihood of installation errors. This feature also supports safer and faster deployment on active construction sites.
Fire pipe line should handle high water pressure without deformation or rupture, especially during the process of extinguishing fires. When a sprinkler system is activated, a sudden surge of pressure flows through the network. Thus, the pipes must be sufficiently thick and rigorously tested after installation to verify their pressure rating capacity.
Pipes made from recyclable materials or manufactured using lower-emission processes align better with sustainability goals, which are being pursued by many construction projects nowadays. Choosing environmentally friendly fire pipe materials also helps meet green building certification requirements.
Several types of materials are commonly used in fire sprinkler systems, including CPVC, galvanized steel, copper, and EP steel-plastic composite pipe. Each one of them comes with its own strengths, and the best choice usually depends on the specific project environment and system requirements.
CPVC fire pipes are widely used in residential and mid-size commercial settings. They are known for their lightweight design, high heat resistance (93℃), and fast installation process. It resists corrosion from acids, alkalis, and firefighting foam, while its smooth pipe walls prevent scaling. CPVC does not rust, and the solvent welding method used to join sections ensures a secure and watertight connection.
These pipes perform well indoors but are not ideal for outdoor fire pipe use or high-impact areas due to UV sensitivity and reduced mechanical strength compared to metal pipes.
Galvanized steel remains a common choice in large commercial or industrial sprinkler systems. It is valued for its high durability and ability to handle elevated pressures.
The zinc coating applied through hot-dip galvanizing or electro-galvanizing adds a degree of corrosion resistance. It can be connected via threads, flanges, or grooves, offering flexible installation. Once installed, the system is robust and durable.
Copper fire pipes are less common due to higher cost but are still used in specialized applications. They offer excellent corrosion resistance and thermal stability, making them suitable for both wet and dry systems. Copper also inhibits bacterial growth and can be installed in tight spaces with precision fittings. Most importantly, copper pipes are 100% recyclable and environmentally friendly.
It is commonly selected for retrofit projects with space constraints or in systems that demand clean water and low internal scaling.
EP steel-plastic composite fire pipes are coated with epoxy resin material on both the inner and outer surfaces of the steel pipe. This is a new type of flame-retardant plastic that provides insulation, corrosion resistance, safety, and high-temperature resistance. It combines the strength of steel with the corrosion resistance of plastic. Their multilayer structure ensures pressure stability and longevity.
These pipes are resistant to scale buildup and offer good thermal insulation. Installation is typically easier than pure steel systems, and their lightweight design helps reduce structural load. They work well in both new construction and upgrades of older systems.
In fire protection systems, the quality of pipes directly impacts the effectiveness of emergency fire response and long-term operational safety.
LESSO has been producing high-quality plastic pipes for over 39 years, with a strong focus on safety, durability, and ease of use. We offer multi-material fire protection pipes to meet various needs:
l Galvanized Steel Pipes: High-pressure resistant, corrosion resistant, multiple connection methods, and robust.
l CPVC Pipes: Corrosion-resistant, lightweight, heat-resistant, and smooth inner wall for optimal water flow efficiency.
l EP Steel-Plastic Composite Pipes: Flame-retardant, excellent corrosion resistance, and superior impact resistance.
Moreover, we provide support for piping solutions, right from product selection to installation issue answers. Our systems are made to meet modern fire safety standards while also aligning with sustainable building goals.
A reliable fire pipe is essential for any effective sprinkler system. The right material ensures safety, performance, and long-term durability. For a solution that meets modern standards and offers proven reliability, LESSO fire pipes remain a smart and trusted choice. Contact us now for detailed information!
