sprinklersystem

Sprinklersystem is a fire suppression system designed to control or extinguish fires by automatically releasing water through sprinkler heads when heat is detected. It is used to limit fire growth, protect lives, and reduce property damage.

Common configurations include wet-pipe systems, where water-filled pipes release water immediately upon head activation; dry-pipe systems, where pipes are filled with pressurized air or nitrogen and water enters the mains when a head is triggered; deluge systems, where all heads are open and discharge water when the system is activated; and deluge variants with zoned control for selective release. Each type has advantages and is chosen based on risk, occupancy, and hydraulics.

Key components are pipes and sprinkler heads, a water supply, control valves, and an alarm or detection system. Some installations include fire pumps, backflow preventers, flow and pressure switches, and supervisory devices. The system is integrated with building management systems for status reporting and interlocking with other safety systems.

Design and installation follow national or regional standards, such as NFPA 13 in the United States or EN 12845 in Europe. Design considerations include fire hazard classification, required water supply duration, hydraulic calculations, pipe sizing, head spacing, and temperature ratings. Regular maintenance, testing, and valve exercising are mandated to ensure reliability.

Applications include commercial, industrial, high-rise, and institutional buildings. Limitations include dependence on a reliable water supply and potential water damage to sensitive areas; proper planning, zoning, and protection measures help mitigate these issues.