Red 25mm ABS Aspirating Pipe 3 Metre Length

FAQ

What is the purpose of the REDCLI0250 pipe?

The REDCLI0250 is a sampling pipe designed specifically for aspirating smoke detection (ASD) systems. It forms the network that actively transports air samples from protected areas back to the aspirating smoke detector. The pipe enables very early fire detection by continuously drawing air samples through strategically positioned sampling holes along the pipe network.

What are the dimensions of this pipe?

The REDCLI0250 has a 25mm outer diameter (OD) and a 21mm internal diameter (ID), with each length measuring 3 metres. The 25mm OD is the metric standard for aspirating detection pipework, with adaptors available for imperial conversions where required.

Which aspirating smoke detection systems is this pipe compatible with?

The REDCLI0250 is compatible with all major brands of low-pressure aspirating smoke detection systems, including VESDA, FAAST, ICAM and other leading ASD manufacturers. The pipe meets the industry standards required for these systems and provides the optimal airflow characteristics needed for effective smoke detection.

What material is the pipe made from and why?

The pipe is manufactured from red ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) plastic. ABS is chosen for its superior physical properties including excellent tensile strength, chemical resistance, impact toughness, weatherability and heat stability. The material performs reliably across temperatures from -40°C to 80°C and provides exceptional resistance to accidental damage, making it ideal for aspirating detection applications.

How do I join sections of this pipe together?

The pipe is joined using ABS solvent cement welding with appropriate fittings such as sockets or couplings. The process involves cutting the pipe squarely, removing burrs, abrading both surfaces, cleaning with MEK cleaner, then applying ABS solvent cement before pushing the pipe fully into the fitting. When correctly made, these joints are stronger than either the pipe or fittings themselves. It is recommended that joints are left to cure for 24 hours wherever possible.

Why is the pipe red in colour?

The red colour is the standard for aspirating smoke detection pipes and fittings, serving to instantly identify the pipework as part of a fire detection system. This visual identification helps prevent accidental damage or interference during building maintenance and clearly distinguishes fire system pipework from other building services such as water, gas or ventilation systems.

What standards does this pipe comply with?

The REDCLI0250 is manufactured in accordance with BS5391 and tested to comply with EN 54-20 (fire detection and fire alarm systems – aspirating smoke detectors) and EN 61386-1 (conduit systems for cable management) standards. This ensures the pipe meets the stringent requirements for professional fire detection installations in the UK and Europe.

Can this pipe be used in harsh or extreme environments?

Yes, the ABS material provides excellent chemical resistance to a wide range of acids, alkalis and aggressive chemicals. The pipe maintains its impact strength and toughness across temperatures from -40°C to 80°C, making it suitable for demanding environments including cold stores, industrial facilities, outdoor applications and areas with temperature variations. However, pipework must be installed to accommodate thermal expansion in environments with significant temperature fluctuations.

How should I store this pipe before installation?

The pipe should be stored flat on a level surface free from sharp stones. Stacks should not exceed a maximum height of 500mm to avoid pipe distortion. The pipe should be protected from weathering, particularly UV exposure, by placing an opaque covering over the stack. Side bracing should be provided to prevent stack collapse. The pipe should be kept in protective wrappings until required for use.

What spacing is required for sampling points on this pipe?

According to BS5839, sampling points shall not be at more than 10 metre intervals. For electronic data processing installations covered by BS6266, sampling points shall not be at more than 5 metre intervals. Each sampling point must be clearly identified with appropriate labels. The specific design and spacing should be calculated using appropriate pipe network design software such as ASPIRE.