CH 10 SPRINKLER SYSTEM OPERATIONS Flashcards
6 Types of sprinkler systems
Wet pipe Dry pipe Deluge Pre-Action Combination Non automatic
Wet Pipe
Water in riser and piping at all times
Dry Pipe
Contains air or sometimes nitrogen in the riser and piping at all times. The air or nitrogen is under pressure and this pressure maintains a “differential dry pipe valve” in the closed position. When a sprinkler head activates the air or nitrogen is exhausted through the open head thus allowing the differential dry pipe valve to open and water to be admitted to the riser and piping. Some dry pipe systems are equipped with quick opening devices (QOD) which assist in exhausting the air or nitrogen from the system thus allowing water to reach the open head more quickly. Dry pipe systems are installed where there is a danger of freezing
Deluge
Deluge type sprinklers are equipped with a “deluge” valve which opens upon an electrical signal received from a smoke, heat or infrared (flame) detector. In a deluge system all sprinkler heads (or nozzles) are open and will flow water simultaneously. Deluge systems are often found in aircraft hangers or where large quantities of flammable liquids are used in industrial processes
Pre-Action
A Pre-Action type of sprinkler system consists of a fusible sprinkler heads, dry piping, and a valve which is opened upon an electrical signal from a smoke, heat or infrared (flame) detector. Pre-Action systems are most often found in computer rooms or where other sensitive electronic equipment is used. The idea is that once fire is detected the valve opens admitting water to the piping. If manual fire control efforts are unsuccessful the sprinkler system actuates and will quickly control the fire. By maintaining the piping dry during normal operations the danger of a large water damage loss due to a break in the piping or accidental damage to a sprinkler head is avoided
Non automatic
Usually found in cellars and sub cellars of older commercial buildings. Non automatic sprinkler systems depend solely upon the fire department to supply water for firefighting. These systems may contain fusible sprinkler heads, open sprinkler heads or even perforated pipes
Combination
Sprinkler heads and standpipe hose outlets attached to a common riser. May be either wet or dry
Combo systems need to
Augmented with additional supply lines from other 1st alarm engine companies
When ever possible sprinkler systems should be
Augmented by at least 2 different different engine companies
Pump discharge pressure for supplying a sprinkler system should start at
150 PSI and adjust as needed
What is the danger of operating in an area where the sprinklers are activated
High CO readings
The sprinkler system control valve should only be shut down on orders form the
IC
Who possesses specialized equipment in order to protect commercial property from unnecessary water damage
New York Fire Patrol
