Grooved piping systems

[sbush]

I've noticed that most fire protection systems use grooved pipe and fittings that I've always refered to as "Victaulic" (even though I'm sure there are other brands).

Two questions: 1. Why is this so common in fire protection? 2. Why isn't it used more throughout the piping industry in general?

Just curious.

S. Bush

http://www.water-eg.com

 

[moltenmetal]

It's used widely at sizes 2" and above. Less well used (as measured by the fittings availability) at sizes below 2" where threaded is more convenient. It's used because it's way quicker and cheaper to install than welded pipe, where threading isn't an option. It's also more adaptable to change.

Why isn't it more widely used? It's pretty much a method for category D services. Too much vulnerable rubber for most people's comfort to use in more hazardous services. Limited temperature/pressure handling capability. And the fittings are only readily available in ductile iron- if you want stainless steels, the fittings are very expensive and not nearly so available- many are fabbed from standard weld fittings, eliminating a good portion of the fabrication savings. Forget about other materials of construction.

 

[stanier]

It is very common in mining and building services.

Not used in refineries or chemical plants as the seal is a synthetic rubber and not firesafe.

 

[z2000]

it is widely used in the desalination industry and i manufactured 8" ASA300 victaukic check valve.

it is not widely sed because you can use dressers instead for more heavy duty piping systems.

 

[lilliput1]

Note there are two types of grooved fittings. One has play allowing for pipe movement and the other is rigid. You have to know where to apply each per manufacturer's requirement. Gooved joint piping is cumbersome to insulate, require more attention with regards to pipe support, is not recommended for use in concealed areas or where it would be difficult to service, generally does not line up as well (piping would be crooked) as welded piping. In addition to sprinkler piping, they are used for optional connection method for chillers particularly if it is nor furnished with marine boxesw, and the connection would have to be opened for annual servicing.