Which type of pipe is most commonly used in fire sprinkler systems?

Black steel pipe or CPVC is the most commonly used type of pipe in fire sprinkler systems primarily due to its strength, durability, and effectiveness in handling high pressures. Black steel pipe is particularly favored in the industry because of its ability to withstand the demanding conditions of fire protection applications while maintaining integrity against corrosion over time.

CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) is also a widely accepted material for fire sprinkler systems. It offers advantages such as being lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and having lower installation costs due to its ease of handling and jointing methods. Moreover, CPVC is typically used in areas where the environmental conditions allow, as it can handle the temperatures that are generated during a fire scenario, ensuring reliability.

In contrast, copper pipe, while durable and resistant to corrosion, is more expensive and less commonly used in fire sprinkler systems. PVC pipe is generally not utilized for fire sprinkler systems because it cannot withstand high temperatures associated with fires and does not meet the required standards in many jurisdictions. Galvanized pipe, while resistant to rust and corrosion, is less often used compared to black steel and CPVC due to its weight and cost considerations.