Code Requirements for "Super Flex" polybutylene pipe

[FFP1]

I am having a difficult time finding the NFPA code requirements for Super Flex polybutylene pipe in a hotel. This plastic pipe is grey in color. I conduct sprinkler system inspections and we have this sprinkler piping in a hotel I just inspected. I have identified several problems, but the owner is a lawyer and wants me to provide the actual code requirements. NFPA 13R simply states the piping “shall be installed in accordance with their listings and the manufacturers' installation instructions”.......the problem is I cannot find the installation guidelines. One of the specific issues, which is a potential problem, is that the plastic piping is located directly above suspended ceiling tiles in several areas.

Can anyone help or provide any suggestions.

Thanks

 

[stookeyfpe]

Is it listed for fire protection service? My understanding is that only CPVC is listed for fire protection service.

The pipe and fittings should have a listing mark as well as being marked to indicate the standard it was constructed to. I would reference the standard they are listed to. Check for these marking and review NFPA 13 or 13D to determine if the material is allowed for your given application.

 

[FFP1]

This material was listed when the pipe was installed (1990), but the problem is the material is no longer manufactured or listed. I need to know whether or not the existing installation meets current code or the existing code when the system was originally installed. I have already identified several other code violations, but I need the manufaturer's installation manual for the pertinent details. The pipe indicates Super Flex, but there is no information regarding the manufacturer.

Thanks

 

[cdafd]

good one I remember a sprinkler head losing its listing awhile back, but I forgot what we did. I thought that as long as the hazard did not change the head was allowed to be used.

So maybe the same for the pipe.
Is the orignal installing company still in business, if so maybe they have some info.

if it was listed does UL have any old info on it??

how about the ahj do they have any info or dig up an old inspector for info??

check adjoining ahjs to see if they have any in thier cities????

 

[stookeyfpe]

FFP1

How did you make the determination that it was listed in 1990? If you can confirm this, then I would consider it an existing-nonconforming condition.

You need to call the NFPA library and determine if the applicable edition of NFPA 13 recognized your piping system.

If you can find no data, then the burden rests with you to make the determination concerning if or (if not) it can be used for fire sprinkler piping.

 

[gouveia]

Before my time, but I would guess that it was polybutylene piping (gray in color). Not specifically aware of the “Super Flex” brand name. Due to domestic piping lawsuits, they stopped manufacturing it around 1996 or so.

Polybutylene (PB) pipe is still listed in NFPA as an acceptable material.