CPVC: Global Innovation meets Local Excellence

As the business of manufacturing evolves, the whole trade evolves with it. When new techniques, materials and processes emerge, it’s an exciting time. As long as innovative, new materials can provide real benefits to the trade and its customers, everyone benefits. That time has come.

Together with Flo-Tek, we introduce FlowGuard® CPVC. The globally recognised and sought after plumbing solution, expertly delivered locally for installers to use today. 

A Brief History of CPVC

The story of CPVC’s arrival is 60 years in the making. The Lubrizol Corporation began pioneering CPVC in the 1950s. The first plumbing systems with CPVC were installed in the 60s, many of which continue to operate to this day trouble-free. 

FlowGuard Pipe and Fittings were born, which went on to be recognised as safe for drinking water by meeting the water quality and performance requirements of international standard organizations including the ASTM, NSF International and the Water Regulation Advisory Scheme (WRAS).

FlowGuard CPVC is now one of the most sought after non-metallic plumbing solutions in the world, and is manufactured here, by Flo-Tek, to ISO 9001 standards in Botswana.

What is FlowGuard CPVC?

Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) is a strong, corrosion-resistant non-metallic pipe and fitting solution, emerging as a cost-effective and safe alternative to copper. Its origins as a highly chlorinated polymer gives it its inherent strength and resistance to corrosion, commonly found in FlowGuard CPVC plumbing pipes around the world.

The unique installation method actually adds strength and durability to joints between pipes and fittings. The solvent cement method of installation is as fast as it is safe. It is also reliable, reducing the likelihood of repairs  or system replacement over time. 

For plumbing merchants in Botswana, Zambia and soon in South Africa, it means a faster turnaround of quality materials, boosting business for your client base and getting quality repeat business.

CPVC vs Copper 

While copper has largely served communities well, the next evolution in plumbing materials, like all technology, must make the jobs that we do today safer, more efficient and cost effective. In order to support this evolution, here’s how FlowGuard CPVC achieves a number of key operational and commercial advantages over copper:

✔ Corrosion resistance - FlowGuard CPVC is resistant to pitting and pinhole corrosion commonly found in copper. 

✔ Scale resistance - A natural occurrence in copper, while FlowGuard CPVC’s surface does not accommodate the natural growth of scaling, which is known to inhibit copper pipe’s performance.

✔ Cost effective - FlowGuard CPVC is a cheaper alternative to copper, in terms of a per metre cost. Its price point and overall installation cost position it as an exciting prospect for installers who want to take on bigger, better projects, simultaneously keeping up with demand.

✔ Installation time - FlowGuard CPVC can be installed much faster than copper, without the need for welding tools. Installation costs can be reduced by as much as 50% when switching from copper to FlowGuard CPVC.

It’s Time To Evolve With Us

Flo-Tek are making FlowGuard CPVC locally available to buy, install and enjoy for generations to come. As we evolve, we invite you to evolve with us.

Follow our blog for new information, studies and developments and grow your business with this lucrative next step in plumbing technology.