CPVC piping systems are used in both residential plumbing and fire suppression applications and are designed to handle pressure and temperature variations. While the material itself is reliable, failures are most often tied to installation practices and system conditions.
In this episode of Evidence to Answers, forensic engineer Mark explains how CPVC systems should be installed, including the importance of accommodating thermal expansion and proper support placement. He covers common failure patterns, including installation-related issues, freeze-related failures, and external impacts. He also discusses how fracture morphology is used to classify failures and connect them to system conditions.
This video is for those involved in losses where CPVC piping is a factor. Documenting system layout, environmental conditions, and installation practices prior to removal provides the context needed for a complete and defensible evaluation.