Pre-action fire sprinkler systems employ the basic concept of a dry pipe system in that water is not normally contained within the pipes. The difference, however, is that water is held from piping by an electrically operated valve, known as a pre-action valve. Valve operation is controlled by independent flame, Protectowire linear heat detection, heat, or smoke detection. Two separate events must happen to initiate the sprinkler discharge. First, the detection system must identify a developing fire and then open the pre-action valve. This allows water to flow into system piping, which effectively creates a wet pipe sprinkler system. Second, the individual sprinkler head must release to permit water flow onto the fire.
In some instances, the pre-action fire sprinkler system may be set up with a double interlock in which pressurized air or nitrogen is added to system piping. The purpose of this feature is two-fold: first to monitor piping for leaks and second to hold water from system piping in the event of inadvertent detector operation. The most common application for this system type is in freezer warehouses.
Interested in learning more? NAFPCO is your full-service fire protection contractor providing design, installation, inspection, testing and repairs for your fire protection systems. We will make sure that your custom system complies with your building codes and NFPA standards. Contact NAFPCO today to have a system installed in your facility.
Deluge systems are generally used in high-hazard areas such as power plants, aircraft hangars, and chemical plants.
Dry pendent sprinklers are typically installed in food process plants and box-in-box freezers where temperatures are below 40 degrees F.
Dry pipe sprinkler systems are generally used in cold climates and are highly effective in cold-temperature fire protection.
Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) systems are quick-responding, high-volume sprinkler systems that provide exceptional protection for high-piled storage occupancies.
Fire pumps are an essential part of many water-based fire protection systems. Fire Pumps are used to increase the water pressure (measured in psi) when the original water source is not adequate for the system it’s supplying.
Fire pumps are an essential part of many water-based fire protection systems. Fire Pumps are used to increase the water pressure (measured in psi) when the original water source is not adequate for the system it’s supplying.
Wet pipe systems are the most common fire sprinkler systems. A wet pipe system is one in which water is constantly maintained within the sprinkler piping.
A special hazards fire suppression system is used to put out fires in areas where water damage from fire sprinklers can cause costly or irreparable damage to the assets being protected.
Linear Heat Detection (LHD) is an important component of fire protection systems, as it is designed to detect heat along the length of a sensor cable.
