Fire Sprinkler Systems

Fire Sprinkler Systems

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Fire Sprinkler Systems

Ideally, all commercial buildings should have a state-of-the-art fire sprinkler system to help save lives and minimize potential structural damage. There are four types of fire spr ...

Ideally, all commercial buildings should have a state-of-the-art fire sprinkler system to help save lives and minimize potential structural damage. There are four types of fire sprinkler systems. In this article, we will explore what sets each one apart so you can learn more about the pros/cons of each system.

Pre-action Fire Sprinkler

The pre-action fire sprinkler system is a popular design. It is filled with a combination of air and water that pass through the piping when the smoke alarm in the building is activated. It relies on two triggers to activate. The two-step program is a nice feature that prevents water from spewing in the case of a false alarm or if the system should sustain a mechanical failure. The pre-action offers superb protection for commercial buildings that can suffer major damage such as a library or electronic center.

Dry Pipe System

A dry pipe system functions in a similar fashion to a pre-action system. It also relies on pressurized air which will push through the piping prior to the water. One negative is that the delay for the water can take up to a minute which might prove damaging during an aggressive fire. The reason for the system to be filled with air (and thus the delay) is to prevent the pipes from freezing. This system is popular in warehouses and other non-heated structures. Dry pipe systems do have a fast opening tool to quickly expel the air, so the water arrives as quick as possible.

Wet Pipe

The wet pipe system is always filled with water so there is no delay when a fire is detected. This is the most common type of fire sprinkler system used in buildings such as offices or high-rise apartments. It is extremely cost-efficient and requires very little maintenance to continue running smoothly. Some problems with wet pipe systems is the stagnant water which can cause premature corrosion as well as the instant water which provides no time to mitigate water damage in case of a false alarm.

Deluge

The deluge fire sprinkler system depends on smoke or heat detection. It has open nozzles which makes it a great choice if hazardous liquids are present. Industrial parks that boast such tanks often depend on the deluge for optimum protection.

Forensic Engineering Specialists

Engineering Specialists Inc. has nearly 30 years of field experience in analyzing the damage to vehicles, residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. We can work on any project in any state, nationwide. When you or your business needs to confirm the extent of damage or how to correct a problem, email us at office@esinationwide.com or call us, toll-free, at (877) 559-4010.

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