Categories of Sprinkler Systems
A fire sprinkler system consists of water supply that provides adequate pressure and flow rate to a water distribution piping system that has sprinkler heads attached. There are different categories of sprinkler systems that every safety professional should be aware of.
Dry Pipe Systems
Water is not present in the pipe until the system is triggered and the water is then released to the piping system. These systems contain a pressurized gas in the piping system above ground level. It is used where freezing is a concern. These systems are normally installed in parking garages, outside canopies, and unheated buildings.
Wet Pipe System
This type of system is the most frequently used. Water is pressurized and is always contained in the pipe. When the system is triggered, water can flow immediately out of the sprinkler head.
Deluge System
This type of system has open sprinkler heads with a water supply valve activated by a detection device. It provides a abundant amount of water. In these systems, the heat sensing device has been removed. No water is stored in the piping system and the water is released when the deluge valve is activated which is actrivated by a fire alarm system. The deluge valve must then be manually reset. These systems are installed in areas where there are special hazards or the rapid spread of fire is very likely.
Preaction System
This system is a hybrid of the wet, dry, and deluge system. Preaction systems are non-pressurized systems with a water supply valve that is activated by a detection device and is used where water damage is a concern. The water supply valve is added to a dry piping system and the valve is opened by the activation of a fire detection system. Once this is activated, the water will then send water to the piping system. These systems are installed where accidental discharge of water would be detrimental such as museums and data centers.
Water Spray Systems
Water Spray systems operate the same way that Deluge systems operate. However, the piping and the discharge nozzle spray patterns are designed to protect a uniquely piece of equipment or component. These patterns are specifically designed to be able to spray a three-dimensional piece of equipment or component.
Foam Water Sprinkler Systems
This system is for special applications for areas that have high challenge fires such as a warehouse that contains flammable liquids or airport hangars. This system discharges foam spray which is a mixture of water and low expansion foam concentrate.
Source: Yates, David. Safety Professionals Reference and Study Guide. Taylor & Francis Group, 2015.
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