Date: 08.08.
2024
Fire Protection: Unit 2 (V Sem)
Sprinkler System
• Automatic Sprinkler Systems : An automatic sprinkler system is a fire protection method
designed to detect, control, and often extinguish fires in their early stages without human
intervention. It consists of a network of pipes fitted with sprinkler heads that are strategically
placed throughout a building. When a fire occurs, the system activates in response to the heat
produced by the fire, discharging water directly onto the flames and the surrounding area to
control and extinguish the fire, prevent its spread, and minimize damage.
Sprinkler Basics
A sprinkler is one component of many that make up a fire sprinkler system. The piping
system, including the water mains to the building, the riser, feed main, cross main, and
sprinkler branch lines, along with associated valves, fittings, and couplings, make up the water
delivery system that supplies water to the sprinklers.
A sprinkler “head” is comprised of a cast or forged metal frame with an integrated
hole, or orifice, at one end and a water deflector at the other end. A heat-sensitive operating
element, or thermal element, is affixed within the frame that keeps the orifice covered and
prevents water from discharging from the sprinkler. In the event of a fire, the thermal
element will actuate once it is exposed to sufficient heat from the fire as determined, in part,
by the temperature rating of the sprinkler. Upon actuation of the thermal element, the orifice
will be uncovered and water will discharge from the sprinkler and be distributed in a specific
spray pattern determined by the sprinkler’s deflector. In this way, a sprinkler acts as both a
heat detector and a water discharge device.
Principle of Sprinkler Systems
Sprinkler systems are an integral part of fire protection and safety in buildings. They
are designed to detect, control, and extinguish fires automatically, minimizing damage and
enhancing safety. The effectiveness of sprinkler systems lies in their ability to detect heat,
activate locally, distribute water efficiently, and control or extinguish fires rapidly. Proper
design, maintenance, and integration with other safety systems are essential to ensure that
sprinklers function as intended in the event of a fire. The operation of sprinkler systems is
based on several key principles:
1. Detection and Response to Heat:
Sprinkler systems detect heat generated by a fire. Each sprinkler head contains a heat-
sensitive element, such as a fusible link or a glass bulb filled with liquid. When the
temperature around the sprinkler head reaches a certain threshold, typically between 135°F
and 165°F (57°C to 74°C), the heat-sensitive element triggers the release of water.
The temperature-sensitive element breaks or melts, causing the sprinkler head to
open and water to be discharged. This automatic detection of heat allows the system to
respond rapidly to a fire, often before it spreads.
2. Localized Activation:
Unlike some fire suppression systems that flood an entire area, sprinklers are designed
for localized activation. This means only the sprinklers near the fire source will open, limiting
water damage to unaffected areas. This selective activation is crucial for preserving property
and reducing overall water use during fire suppression.
3. Effective Water Distribution:
When a sprinkler head activates, water is released and hits a deflector, which disperses
the water in a specific pattern, usually a circular or semi-circular spray. The deflector ensures
that water is distributed evenly over the fire and its surrounding area, effectively suppressing
the flames and cooling the surrounding materials to prevent the fire from spreading.
4. Fire Control and Extinguishment:
The primary function of a sprinkler system is to control or extinguish a fire, preventing
it from spreading. The water discharged cools the flames and the hot gases, while also soaking
the materials around the fire, reducing their likelihood of igniting. In many cases, the sprinkler
system can completely extinguish a fire before emergency services arrive.
5. System Reliability:
For a sprinkler system to function effectively in the event of a fire, it must be properly
maintained and regularly inspected. Maintenance ensures that all components, including
sprinkler heads, valves, and water supplies, are in working order. Regular inspections help
identify and rectify potential issues before they can cause a failure during an emergency.
6. Design Considerations:
Sprinkler systems must be tailored to the specific fire hazards of a building. This
involves choosing the right type of sprinkler heads, determining the appropriate water
pressure, and ensuring adequate water supply. The design must account for the building's
layout, occupancy, and the types of materials present. For instance, a warehouse storing
flammable materials will require a different system design compared to an office building.
7. Integration with Other Safety Systems:
For optimal fire protection, sprinkler systems should work in conjunction with other
safety systems. Fire alarms can alert occupants and emergency services when a sprinkler
activates, while HVAC and smoke control systems can manage smoke and toxic fumes.
Integration ensures a coordinated response to a fire, enhancing overall safety and minimizing
damage.
Key Components of Automatic Sprinkler Systems
a) Sprinkler Heads:
These are the outlets where water is discharged. Each sprinkler head has a heat-
sensitive element. A sprinkler “head” is comprised of a cast or forged metal frame with an
integrated hole, or orifice, at one end and a water deflector at the other end.
A heat-sensitive operating element, or thermal element, is affixed within the frame
that keeps the orifice covered and prevents water from discharging from the sprinkler. In the
event of a fire, the thermal element will actuate once it is exposed to sufficient heat from the
fire as determined, in part, by the temperature rating of the sprinkler.
Upon actuation of the thermal element, the orifice will be uncovered and water will discharge
from the sprinkler and be distributed in a specific spray pattern determined by the sprinkler’s
deflector. In this way, a sprinkler acts as both a heat detector and a water discharge device.
Classification of Sprinkler heads
Based on Activation Mechanism:
1. Fusible Link Sprinklers: Uses a metal alloy that melts at a specific temperature, releasing a cap
or plug to allow water flow.
2. Glass Bulb Sprinklers: Contains a liquid-filled bulb that expands when heated, causing it to
break and release the water.
3. Chemical Pellet Sprinklers: Contains a pellet that melts at a specific temperature, triggering
the sprinkler.
Glass Bulb
Feature Fusible Link Sprinklers Chemical Pellet Sprinklers
Sprinklers
Fast response,
Simple, Cost-effective, High-temperature applications,
Advantages Color-coded, Less
Durable Selective activation
corrosion
Slower response, Prone Fragile, Slightly
Disadvantages Complex, Limited use
to corrosion higher cost
Office buildings,
Industrial environments, Hotels, High-hazard areas, Specialized
Typical Use
General applications Residential equipment protection
buildings
Based on Water Distribution Pattern:
1. Pendant Sprinklers : Hangs down from the ceiling and directs water downward in a
circular pattern. Commonly used in standard ceiling applications.
2. Upright Sprinklers: Mounted on top of the pipe and directs water upward and
outward, used in areas with obstructions where water needs to be dispersed over
objects.
3. Sidewall Sprinklers: Mounted on walls and designed to cover small areas along the
walls, typically used in hallways and small rooms.
4. Concealed Sprinklers: Installed behind a cover plate that falls away when the sprinkler
is activated, providing a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
5. Flush Sprinklers: Mounted flush with the ceiling for a less obtrusive look. The sprinkler
head protrudes only when activated.
6. Recessed Sprinklers: Similar to flush sprinklers but slightly recessed into the ceiling,
offering a low-profile appearance.
Color Temp Rating
Orange 57ºC
Red 68ºC
Yellow 79ºC
Green 93ºC
Blue 141ºC
Purple 182ºC
Black 260ºC
b) Piping System: A network of pipes distributes water to the sprinkler heads. The pipes are
typically filled with water (in wet pipe systems) or air/nitrogen (in dry pipe systems) until
activation.
c) Water Supply: The system is connected to a reliable water source.
d) Control Valves: These valves regulate the flow of water into the sprinkler system. They
include the main control valve, alarm valve, and test valve
e) Alarm Systems: When a sprinkler head activates, it triggers an alarm system to alert
building occupants and emergency responders.
Types of Automatic Sprinkler Systems
I. Wet Pipe Systems
II. Dry Pipe Systems
III. Preaction Systems
o Non-Interlock Preaction System
o Single Interlock Preaction System
o Double Interlock Preaction System
IV. Deluge Systems
I. Wet Pipe Systems
Wet pipe sprinkler systems are the most common. In this system the sprinkler
piping is constantly filled with water. When the temperature at the ceiling gets hot
enough the glass bulb or fusible link in a sprinkler will break. Since the system is already
filled with water, water is free to flow out of that sprinkler head. Contrary to what
Hollywood would have you think, not all sprinkler heads will operate at once in this type
of system. The temperature around that specific sprinkler head needs to be high enough
to break the glass bulb or fusible link that is holding water back. Once that happens, water
will immediately start flowing from only that head.
Wet pipe sprinkler systems are the most reliable and cost effective. Therefore, they should be
the first type considered when selecting a sprinkler system. However, there are times when a
wet pipe sprinkler system may not be appropriate. One of the major factors in determining if a
wet pipe system can be used is the temperature of the space to be protected. The temperature
at all the areas of the building where the sprinkler piping is located shall be at least 4OC or
greater.
Usage: Suitable for environments where temperatures are maintained above freezing, such as
office buildings, schools, and residential structures.
II. Dry Pipe Systems
Dry pipe systems are very similar to wet pipe systems with one major difference. The pipe is
not constantly filled with water. Instead, the water is held behind a dry pipe valve usually some
distance away from where the sprinklers are located. Like a wet pipe system, when the
temperature at the ceiling becomes hot enough, the glass bulb or fusible link of the sprinkler
breaks. However, in this case, water isn’t immediately available because the pipe is not water filled.
Instead, air is released from the now open sprinkler head. This creates a drop in pressure causing
the dry pipe valve to open and water to fill the system. Water will then flow from the open sprinkler
head. Since there is a delay between sprinkler operation and water flow, the size of dry pipe
systems is limited. The size limitation is intended to minimize the amount of time water delivery is
delayed.
A dry pipe system is a great option for unconditioned spaces, or locations where the
temperature of the space cannot be guaranteed to be high enough to prevent water in the system
from freezing. It is important to note that a least the portion of the building where the water comes
in and the dry pipe valve is located will need to have temperatures hot enough to prevent freezing.
III. Preaction Systems
The main difference between preaction systems and wet and dry pipe systems is that a specific
event (or events) must happen before water is released into the system. This might sound
similar to a dry pipe system, but the differences lie in what event triggers the release of the
water:
• For a non-interlock system: the operation of detection devices OR automatic sprinklers
• For a single interlock system: the operation of detection devices
• For a double interlock system: the operation of detection devices AND automatic
sprinklers
Example Scenario:
o Room protected by sprinklers fed from a preaction system.
o Complete automatic heat detection system installed.
o Detection system has a lower temperature rating than sprinklers (135°F vs. 165°F).
Non-Fire Event (Accidental Damage):
Non-Interlock System: Water fills the system and flows from the broken sprinkler head.
Single Interlock System: No water flow; only detection devices trigger the system to fill with water.
Fire Event:
Heat detectors (lower temperature rating) activate first.
Non-Interlock & Single Interlock Systems: Heat detector activation fills the system with water;
sprinklers operate if temperature continues to rise, acting like a wet pipe system.
Double Interlock System: System fills with water only after heat detection activation and sprinkler
head operation, causing a delay similar to dry pipe systems.
Applications:
Data centers, museums, libraries, and other areas where accidental water discharge could cause
significant damage.
Advantages:
• Reduces the risk of accidental water discharge.
• Provides a second level of verification before water is released.
Additional Considerations:
• Minimize Water Damage: Single or double interlock systems may be preferred.
• Prevent Accidental Filling: Use interlock systems to avoid accidental water flow.
Single Interlock System:
• Ideal for settings like museums and computer rooms.
• Eliminates risk of accidental water flow if a sprinkler head is damaged.
Double Interlock System:
• Intended for freezer storage warehouses or similar situations.
• Prevents water presence in piping, avoiding costly remediation.
• Not specifically developed for museums or similar spaces.
• Consider the delay in water delivery before selecting this system.
Water Delivery Delay:
• Double interlock systems have a delay, allowing fire to grow.
• May result in more sprinklers opening, increasing water damage.
• Larger portion of the building could be affected.
Deluge Systems
Description:
• Deluge systems are designed for high-hazard areas where rapid fire spread is a concern.
• All sprinkler heads are open and discharge water simultaneously when the system is activated.
Operation:
• Detection System: A separate fire detection system (e.g., smoke or heat detectors) activates the
deluge valve.
• Water Flow: Once activated, water flows through all open sprinkler heads simultaneously.
Components:
• Open Sprinkler Heads: No heat-sensitive elements; they discharge water when the system is
activated.
• Deluge Valve: Opens when the detection system is triggered.
• Detection System: Triggers the deluge valve.
Applications:
• High-hazard areas such as aircraft hangars, chemical storage facilities, power plants, and
industrial applications.
Advantages:
• Rapid response, delivering water to all areas simultaneously.
• Effective for areas with high fire risk and rapid fire spread potential.
Key Differences
Feature Preaction Systems Deluge Systems
Sprinkler Heads Closed, heat-sensitive Open, no heat-sensitive elements
Requires detection system (and
Activation Requires detection system only
sometimes sprinkler)
Delivers water to all sprinklers
Water Discharge Delivers water to activated sprinklers
simultaneously
Areas needing protection from accidental High-hazard areas with rapid fire
Primary Use
water damage spread
Detection Detection system must activate before Detection system activates and opens
Requirement water fills pipes deluge valve
Water Delivery
Potential delay depending on system type Immediate water delivery to all areas
Time
More complex due to dual activation Less complex, but larger water
System Complexity
requirement demand
K Factor
• The K-factor of a sprinkler is a coefficient.
• Describes the relationship between the flow rate of water through the sprinkler and the
pressure at the sprinkler nozzle.
• It is a critical factor in designing fire sprinkler systems.
• Ensuring discharge of the appropriate amount of water to control or extinguish a fire.
The K-factor is defined by the following equation:
Q= K √ P
Where:
Q is the flow rate in L/min.
K is the K-factor of the sprinkler.
P is the pressure at the sprinkler nozzle bar.
From the 2022 editions of NFPA 13D, NFPA 13R, and NFPA 13,[Link]* (NFPA 13D)/[Link]*
(NFPA 13R)/[Link].1 (NFPA 13)
Where replacing residential sprinklers manufactured prior to 2003 that are no longer
available from the manufacturer and are installed using a design density less than 2.04
mm/min[2.0 in NFPA 13]), a residential sprinkler with an equivalent K-factor (± 5 percent) shall
be permitted to be used provided the currently listed coverage area for the replacement
sprinkler is not exceeded.
• NFPA 13 specifies that sprinklers with a minimum K-factor of 8.0 must be used for
storage protection with a density of 0.20 or greater.
• A minimum K-factor of 11.2 is required for storage protection with a density of 0.34 or
greater.
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Dr A R Sontake
Professor, NFSC, Nagpur.