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Water Based Fire Sprinkler Systems

Los Angeles Water Based Fire Sprinkler Systems

Automatic fire sprinklers installed in your office or home residence will significantly limit the potential loss for life, valuables, and prized possessions. The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection has information regarding California State Fire Codes Rules and Regulations, which may help during the installation, remodel or retrofit of a water based fire sprinkler system.

Types of Water Based Fire Sprinkler Systems

Wet Pipe Fire Sprinkler System

Antifreeze Fire Sprinkler System

Dry Pipe Fire Sprinkler System

Deluge Fire Sprinkler System

Pre Action Fire Sprinkler System

Combined Dry Pipe and Pre Action Systems

Maintenance will be required on your water based fire sprinkler system the NFPA 25 states, “1.1* Scope. This document establishes the minimum requirements for the periodic inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems, including land-based and marine applications. 1.1.1 This standard does not address all of the inspection, testing, and maintenance of the electrical components of the automatic fire detection equipment for preaction and deluge systems that are addressed by NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code. The inspection, testing, and maintenance required by this standard and NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code, shall be coordinated so that the system operates as intended. 1.1.2 The types of systems addressed by this standard include, but are not limited to, sprinkler, standpipe and hose, fixed water spray, and foam water. Included are the water supplies that are part of these systems, such as private fire service mains and appurtenances, fire pumps and water storage tanks, and valves that control system flow. The document also addresses impairment handling and reporting. This standard applies to fire protection systems that have been properly installed in accordance with generally accepted practices. Where a system has not been installed in accordance with generally accepted practices, the corrective action is beyond the scope of this standard. The corrective action to ensure that the system performs in a satisfactory manner shall be in accordance with the appropriate installation standard. 1.1.3 This standard shall not apply to sprinkler systems designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13D, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes. A.1.1 Generally accepted NFPA installation practices for water-based fire protection systems relevant to this standard are found in the following: NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems. NFPA 13R, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Residential Occupancies up to and Including Four Stories in Height. NFPA 14, Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems. NFPA 15, Standard for Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection. NFPA 16, Standard for the Installation of Foam-Water Sprinkler and Foam-Water Spray Systems. NFPA 20, Standard for the Installation of Stationary Pumps for Fire Protection. NFPA 22, Standard for Water Tanks for Private Fire Protection. NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances. NFPA 750, Standard on Water Mist Fire Protection Systems. For systems originally installed in accordance with one of these standards, the repair, replacement, alteration or extension of such systems should also be performed in accordance with that same standard. When original installations are based on other applicable codes or standards, repair, replacement, alteration, or extension practices should be conducted in accordance with those other applicable codes or standards.”

Wet Pipe Fire Sprinkler System

Los Angeles Wet Pipe Fire Sprinkler System

The most common for residence and reliable source of fire protection through automatic fire sprinklers is the wet pipe fire sprinkler system. The wet pipe fire sprinkler system is relatively simple in its design and operation. Water is held under pressure in the fire sprinkler pipes, the automatic fire sprinkler heads when activated by a fire detector, fire alarm, or the heat sensing element located inside the fire sprinkler head (like a light bulb, will pop and activate the automatic fire sprinkler head) that allows the pressurized water to evacuate the fire sprinkler heads.

Water remains constantly within the pipes of a wet pipe fire sprinkler system, make sure the temperatures of the building or facility will not freeze or temperatures not to drop below 40 degrees. The wet pipe fire sprinkler system will get things wet in the event of a devastating fire, if you have precious valuables, or possessions that may be damaged when wet (Artwork) then you may consider a dry pipe, foam or combined fire protection system.

The wet pipe fire sprinkler requires the least maintenance due to the fact there are less components connected to it. This will mean lower operating costs and will help save money over time. Check with your fire hazard insurance provider to see details on discounts offered for having an installed fire protection system in your home or office. Contact us for an bid on the installation of your new wet pipe fire sprinkler system, we will offer a detailed quote that will itemize the expenses involved and help you calculate the costs.

NFPA 13D has created a standard for the installation of fire sprinkler systems, detailing information for the combined dry pipe and pre action system. “1.1* Scope. 1.1.1 This standard shall cover the design, installation, and maintenance of automatic sprinkler systems for protection against the fire hazards in one- and two-family dwellings and manufactured homes. 1.1.2 This standard assumes that the sprinkler system is designed to protect against a fire originating from a single ignition location.”

Antifreeze Fire Sprinkler Systems

Los Angeles Antifreeze Fire Sprinkler Systems

Antifreeze fire sprinkler systems are designed for use in cold climates, just like the dry pipe fire sprinkler system it will not freeze on you when temperatures fall below 40 degrees Fahrenheit. The antifreeze fire sprinkler system is a network of pipes, alarms, control valves, and automatic fire sprinkler heads all able to operate in colder temperatures.

There is a new safety alert issued by NFPA regarding antifreeze fire sprinkler systems:

Background

Following reports of a fire incident involving a sprinkler system that contained a high concentration antifreeze solution, research and standards development activities were begun to address concerns raised by the combustibility of antifreeze solutions in residential sprinkler systems. As information became available, NFPA published two successive Safety Alerts providing guidance from NFPA in its role as a safety advocate and announcing Tentative Interim Amendments (TIAs) to NFPA sprinkler standards that were issued by the NFPA Standards Council. The TIAs and the additional NFPA guidance offered in those Safety Alerts were interim actions while the responsible standards development Technical Committees reviewed the results of the research and reached consensus on further amendments to the NFPA sprinkler standards.

The sprinkler committees have now completed the review and consideration of the issues related to the use of antifreeze in sprinkler systems and, based on the available information, have reached consensus on four TIAs that were issued by the NFPA Standards Council (PDF, 81 KB) on March 1, 2011. The four TIAs achieve a more comprehensive approach to the treatment of antifreeze in NFPA sprinkler standards, and provide new requirements for the use of antifreeze in both new and existing residential occupancies and in non-residential occupancies as well.

Dry Pipe Fire Sprinkler System

Los Angeles Dry Pipe Fire Sprinkler System

A dry pipe system is optimal for fire sprinkler protection when ambient temperatures reach freezing, rendering a wet pipe fire sprinkler system inoperable. The dry pipe system is the second most common system to be installed and is often used in structures that do not have adequate heating, such as garages, and storage facilities.

The dry pipe fire sprinkler system is a network of pipes, alarms, control valves, and fire sprinkler heads. The dry pipe systems pipes are not filled with water until one of the automatic fire sprinkler heads attached to the system opens after reaching a set temperature. This forces a change in air pressure in the system allowing water to fill all the pipes, and for all the automatic fire sprinkler heads to open extinguishing the fire.

Deluge Fire Sprinkler System

Los Angeles Deluge Fire Sprinkler System

If there are concerns where highly flammable materials are present installing a deluge fire sprinkler system may be optimal for your facility or at least the specific area where flammable materials are present. The deluge fire sprinkler system is a network of pipes, connected to control valves, fire detection, smoke, or fire alarms, fire sprinkler heads that remain open and/or the heat sensing element is removed from the fire sprinkler head or the fire sprinkler heads are designed specifically for the deluge fire sprinkler system.

The fire sprinkler pipes remain void of water until the deluge fire sprinkler is activated causing the pipes to be filled with water. The deluge fire sprinkler system is not pressurized, which means it is atmospheric pressure so for the water not to pour out of the sprinkler heads a special deluge fire sprinkler valve will need to be installed.

Pre Action Fire Sprinkler System

Los Angeles Pre Action Fire Sprinkler System

Whenever you are concerned with an accidental fire sprinkler discharge such as rare, precious, computers or valuables that may be damaged when wet; the pre action fire sprinkler system may be the choice for fire prevention and fire protection. There are two main types of pre action fire sprinkler systems.

Single interlock pre action fire sprinkler systems generally are activated by a heat detector, smoke detector, or fire alarm. The pre action system activates and fills the fire sprinkler pipes with water and sprays the water from the fire sprinkler heads. The desired effect is to essentially convert a dry pipe fire sprinkler system into a wet pipe fire sprinkler system. If any air pressure is lost in the pre action fire sprinkler system a trouble alarm generally alerts you of the issues.

Double interlock pre action fire sprinkler systems generally are activated by a heat detector, smoke detector, or fire alarm. The double interlock pre action system activates and fills the fire sprinkler pipes with water and sprays the water from the fire sprinkler heads. The desired effect is to essentially convert a dry pipe fire sprinkler system into a wet pipe fire sprinkler system. If any air pressure is lost in the pre action fire sprinkler system a trouble alarm generally alerts you of the issues. The main difference is that all fire sprinkler heads remain open similar to a deluge fire sprinkler system.

Combined Dry Pipe and Pre Action Systems

Los Angeles Combined Dry Pipe and Pre Action Systems

Using a combined dry pipe and pre action fire protection involves installation of the following fire protection components, exterior water supply main, penetration firestopping, fire detection and alarm systems, fire protection general requirements, and fire pump systems. The combined dry pipe and pre action system uses multiple components to extinguish the fire. The fire detection alarms initiate the automatic fire sprinkler heads, where pressurized water then sprays unto the specific area for containment and to extinguish the fire.

Combined Standpipe Fire Protection

Los Angeles Combined Standpipe Fire Protection

A combination system of both dry standpipe fire sprinkler systems and wet standpipe fire sprinkler systems, it is not unusual to have both systems installed in a high rise or multi floor building as the flammable materials present may require both forms of fire protection. When combined you may have a dry standpipe fire sprinkler system combined with either wet standpipe fire sprinklers, or automatic fire sprinkler system. See standpipe fire protection systems or see NFPA 14 for more information.

Dry Standpipe Fire Protection

Los Angeles Dry Standpipe Fire Protection

The dry standpipe is a network of installed pipes into your building or facility, there is an absence of any liquid in the dry standpipe fire protection system until the authorities or fire department connects a water supply to the dry standpipe for use of the dry standpipe system.

Wet Standpipe Fire Protection

Los Angeles Wet Standpipe Fire Protection

The wet standpipe is filled with water and pressurized at all times, basically ready to discharge water and extinguish the fire. The wet standpipe system is a network of pipes connected into the building generally a high rise or multi-floor structure. The system allows fire hoses to be connected to each of the connections and to be used similar to a fire hydrant.

The advantage to this system is that all are able to connect and operate the wet standpipe system to extinguish a fire, unlike the dry standpipe fire protection system which requires that the fire department connect it to a water source.

Standpipe Fire Protection Systems

Los Angeles Standpipe Fire Protection Systems

The standpipe fire sprinkler system is a type of fixed system that is generally installed in high rise or multi-floor buildings. Fire hoses can then be connected to the fire sprinkler standpipes, and they serve just as a fire hydrant would serve, should the need arise for a fire to be extinguished. NFPA 14 for more information regarding standpipe fire protection systems.

Types of Standpipe Fire Protection Systems

Wet Standpipe Fire Protection

Dry Standpipe Fire Protection

Combined Standpipe Fire Protection

Private Fire Service Mains

Los Angeles Private Fire Service Mains

A private service main, describes the way the fire protection system is connected from the local water supply, through the private service main into the risers of your fire protection system.

The NFPA 24, states “1.1 Scope. 1.1.1 This standard shall cover the minimum requirements for the installation of private fire service mains and their appurtenances supplying the following: (1) Automatic sprinkler systems (2) Open sprinkler systems (3) Water spray fixed systems (4) Foam systems (5) Private hydrants (6) Monitor nozzles or standpipe systems with reference to water supplies (7) Hose houses 1.1.2 This standard shall apply to combined service mains used to carry water for fire service and other uses. 1.1.3 This standard shall not apply to the following situations: (1) Mains under the control of a water utility (2) Mains providing fire protection and/or domestic water that are privately owned but are operated as a water utility 1.1.4 This standard shall not apply to underground mains serving sprinkler systems designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13R that are under 4 in. (102 mm) in size. 1.1.5 This standard shall not apply to underground mains serving sprinkler systems designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13D.”

Los Angeles Fire Pumps

Los Angeles Fire Pump
The fire pump pulls water from the community or is connected to its own water supply source such as a lake, reservoir, or water tank. Fire pumps are generally operated with electric diesel or steam. The pumps main purpose is to provide the correct water pressure and supply needed for the fire protection system to operate and function properly. The fire pump provides water to the fire protection system standpipes and the fire sprinkler risers.

The NFPA 20 states, “1.1* Scope. 1.1.1 This standard deals with the selection and installation of pumps supplying liquid for private fire protection. 1.1.2 The scope of this document shall include liquid supplies; suction, discharge, and auxiliary equipment; power supplies, including power supply arrangements; electric drive and control; diesel engine drive and control; steam turbine drive and control; and acceptance tests and operation. 1.1.3 This standard does not cover system liquid supply capacity and pressure requirements, nor does it cover requirements for periodic inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire pump systems. 1.1.4 This standard does not cover the requirements for installation wiring of fire pump units.”

Fire Protection Water Tanks

Los Angeles Fire Protection Water Tanks

When you live in a high fire hazard, rural or unincorporated area you may be required to have a fire water tank. The water tank allows you to have a constant flow of water or fire extinguishing material so that the fire protection system will not run out of water. The amount of flow and capacity of water is very important when it comes time to extinguish a fire.

Types of fire protection water tanks come in plastic, stainless steel, and fiberglass. If you are planning a retrofit with your fire protection system and require a water tank, you may want to look at fiberglass first as you can generally build the fiberglass tank inside the facility with pieces its easier than ripping out walls.

The NFPA has established a standard NFPA 22. Which states “1.1 Scope. This standard provides the minimum requirements for the design, construction, installation, and maintenance of tanks and accessory equipment that supply water for private fire protection, including the following: (1) Gravity tanks, suction tanks, pressure tanks, and embankment-supported coated fabric suction tanks (2) Towers (3) Foundations (4) Pipe connections and fittings (5) Valve enclosures (6) Tank filling (7) Protection against freezing.”

Water Spray Fixed Fire Protection Systems

Los Angeles Water Spray Fixed Fire Protection Systems

There are several types of water based spray fire sprinkler and fire protection systems available. We list several of the types and a brief description of each of the fixed water spray fire protection system.

Water Spray Fixed Fire Protection Systems

Deluge Foam Water Fire Sprinkler

Foam Water Fire Sprinkler System

Fire Control Valves

Deluge Foam Water Fire Sprinkler System

Los Angeles Deluge Foam Water Fire Sprinkler System

The deluge foam water fire sprinkler system is similar in the foam water fire sprinkler system. The Deluge foam water fire sprinkler system is unique in that it will mix water with a low expansion foam based agent designed to spray from a specially designed fire sprinkler head. Deluge foam water fire sprinkler systems are created for high flammable areas of specific fire hazards and are designed generally for a specific application such as a gas fire. Foam water fire sprinklers are designed to extinguish fires designated as Class A fires such as organic solid material such as wood, Class B fires that involve liquid such as gas and oil, and Class C fires that involve electricity.

Wikipedia states, “"Deluge" systems are systems in which all sprinklers connected to the water piping system are open, in that the heat sensing operating element is removed, or specifically designed as such. These systems are used for special hazards where rapid fire spread is a concern, as they provide a simultaneous application of water over the entire hazard. They are sometimes installed in personnel egress paths or building openings to slow travel of fire (e.g., openings in a fire-rated wall).

Water is not present in the piping until the system operates. Because the sprinkler orifices are open, the piping is at atmospheric pressure. To prevent the water supply pressure from forcing water into the piping, a deluge valve is used in the water supply connection, which is a mechanically latched valve. It is a non-resetting valve, and stays open once tripped.

Because the heat sensing elements present in the automatic sprinklers have been removed (resulting in open sprinklers), the deluge valve must be opened as signaled by a fire alarm system. The type of fire alarm initiating device is selected mainly based on the hazard (e.g., smoke detectors, heat detectors, or optical flame detectors). The initiation device signals the fire alarm panel, which in turn signals the deluge valve to open. Activation can also be manual, depending on the system goals. Manual activation is usually via an electric or pneumatic fire alarm pull station, which signals the fire alarm panel, which in turn signals the deluge valve to open.

Operation - Activation of a fire alarm initiating device, or a manual pull station, signals the fire alarm panel, which in turn signals the deluge valve to open, allowing water to enter the piping system. Water flows from all sprinklers simultaneously.”

Foam Water Fire Sprinkler System

Los Angeles Foam Water Fire Sprinkler System

The foam water fire sprinkler system is unique in that it will mix water with a low expansion foam based agent designed to spray from a fire sprinkler head or portable fire extinguisher. Foam water fire sprinkler systems are created for high flammable areas of specific fire hazards and are designed generally for a specific application such as a gas fire. Foam water fire sprinklers are designed to extinguish fires designated as Class A fires such as organic solid material such as wood, Class B fires that involve liquid such as gas and oil, and Class C fires that involve electricity.

Fire Control Valves

Los Angeles Fire Control Valves

Fire control valves and control assemblies allow or restrict the flow of water other fire extinguishing agent, through a fire sprinkler system. Control valves are part of the components and network of what makes a fire protection system. Control valves are available in automatic control valves and manual control valves.

Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers

Los Angeles Portable Fire Extinguishers

There are several types of portable fire extinguishers, all are designed for specific area use and are generally able to extinguish fires from Class A fires such as organic solid material such as wood, Class B fires that involve liquid such as gas and oil, and Class C fires that involve electricity.

Portable Fire Extinguishers Include:

Water Fire Extinguishers

Foam Fire Extinguishers

Liquefied Gas Fire Extinguishers

Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers

Fire Alarms

Fire and Heat Detection Alarms

Fixed System Fire Extinguishers

Fire Suppression Systems

Water Fire Extinguishers

Los Angeles Water Fire Extinguishers

Water fire extinguishers are made for specific use, generally discharging a foamy liquid generally created to extinguish Class A fires such as organic solid material such as wood, Class B fires that involve liquid such as gas and oil, and Class C fires that involve electricity.

Wikipedia states, “Water cools burning material.”

“APW (Air pressurized water) cools burning material by absorbing heat from burning material. Effective on Class A fires, it has the advantage of being inexpensive, harmless, and relatively easy to clean up. In the United States, APW units contain 2.5 gallons (9 liters) of water in a tall, stainless steel cylinder. In Europe, they are typically mild steel lined with polyethylene, painted red, containing 6–9 liters (1.75–2.5 gallons) of water.

Water Mist uses a fine misting nozzle to break up a stream of deionized water to the point of not conducting electricity back to the operator. Class A and C rated. It is used widely in hospitals for the reason that, unlike other clean-agent suppressants, it is harmless and non-contaminant. These extinguishers come in 1.75 and 2.5 gallon units, painted white in the United States and red in Europe.

[edit] Wet chemical and water additivesWet Chemical (potassium acetate, carbonate, or citrate) extinguishes the fire by forming a soapy foam blanket over the burning oil and by cooling the oil below its ignition temperature. Generally class A and K (F in Europe) only, although newer models are outfitted with misting nozzles as those used on water mist units to give these extinguishers class B and C firefighting capability.

Wetting Agents Detergent based additives used to break the surface tension of water and improve penetration of Class A fires.

Antifreeze Chemicals added to water to lower its freezing point to about −40 °F. Has no appreciable effect on extinguishing performance.”