Types of Fire Sprinkler Systems
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- Category: Automatic Fire Sprinkler Systems
- Published: Monday, 11 June 2018 06:46
- Written by Super User
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Fire Sprinkler Systems are designed to automatically contain and extinguish a fire. When the heat from the fire gets to a certain temperature the fire sprinkler heads operate spraying water over the fire. The four main types of fire sprinkler systems that are in common uses are the top four below.
The Wet-Pipe: These systems are the most common type in use. They are charged with water under pressure in the pipes that connect to the sprinkler heads, which activate automatically in case of a fire.
The Dry-Pipe: Commonly used where pipes are likely to freeze. The pipes in this system are filled with nitrogen gas or compressed air, which are connected to mains water or storage tank with a valve that keeps the water out of the pipes. When the fire activates the sprinkler heads, there is a drop in pressure that causes the water to flow into the pipes and out through the sprinkler heads after a slight delay.
Deluge System: These systems are typically used in areas where rapid fire damage is a major concern. For example, warehouse loading bays and high-rise windows. This system uses deluge valve in the water supply connection similar in design to wet pipe installations though with one major difference: the nozzle is always open. The valve will open to allow water to enter the piping system, providing a constant water flow from all sprinklers. This type of system is useful where the entire area is affected by fire. Another difference is how a deluge-based sprinkler is triggered. This is via a special alarm that opens a water release valve.
Pre-Action System: This system combines all the features of the wet pipe, dry pipe and deluge valve system and tend to be used in areas at high risk of water damage, for example museums for rare arts, books, antiques etc. Water isn’t stored in the pipes until a fire detection system detects a fire. Firstly, the device opens a valve within the pipes that releases the water. This occurs prior to the opening of the sprinkler heads. On opening, its response time is as fast as a standard wet pipe sprinkler system. Note: Where water to extinguish the fire is undesirable Novac Gas or similar is released in place of water to extinguish a fire.
Drencher System (Wall Wetting Sprinkler System): Protects the window openings in brick wall or combustible cornices from radiant heat in adjacent premises, by discharging water over the entire surface of the glazing or cornices. There are two types: Sealed Wall Wetting Sprinkler Systems and Open Wall Wetting Sprinkler systems.
Foam Water Sprinkler System: Uses both water and foam to spray through the sprinkler. This type of system is typically used in petrol storage, airports, etc.