Delugesystemer

Delugesystemer (deluge systems) are a type of water-based fire suppression system in which all sprinkler heads discharge water simultaneously when the system is activated. The piping is typically kept full of water and all heads are open, so a single actuation delivers a rapid, total flood to the protected area. This provides fast knockdown but uses more water than selective systems.

Operation follows a trigger from automatic detectors or manual devices. A deluge valve or master valve holds back the water in the network until activation; upon actuation, water flows through every head. The system may be supplied by one or more water supplies and is equipped with alarms, drains, and supervision devices to monitor status and facilitate reset.

Components typically include the pipe network, deluge valves, deluge or open-head sprinklers, a control panel, initiating devices, and drainage. Some configurations employ a post-indicating check valve and an alarm check valve to prevent backflow and provide pressure indication.

Common applications are areas with high hazard or where immediate, broad-area protection is required, such as aircraft hangars, chemical plants, electrical substations, and large data centers or production facilities.

Standards governing deluge systems include NFPA 13 in North America and EN 12845 in Europe; other regions use region-specific codes. Maintenance requires periodic inspection and testing of valves, detectors, and water supplies, plus hydrostatic testing and drills of discharge and reset procedures.

Advantages include rapid fire knockdown and straightforward head design; drawbacks include high water usage, potential collateral damage, and higher cost and complexity. Effective use depends on reliable water supply, proper design, and scheduled maintenance.