Proper selection of fire sprinkler system is essential for effective protection of buildings and people from fire. Sprinklers vary in design, specification and purpose, and the selection of the right type depends on many factors, such as the type of building, the characteristics of the fire hazard and the specific processes occurring in the building. In this article, we will discuss how to select the right sprinklers for different types of buildings and fire hazards.
Standard sprinklers
Standard sprinklers are the most commonly used type of fire sprinkler. They are designed to operate at a specific temperature threshold, usually around 68 degrees Celsius. Standard sprinklers are suitable for most commercial and residential buildings where typical fire hazards include materials such as wood, paper, and fabric.
Quick Response Sprinklers
Fast response sprinklers have a lower activation temperature threshold, allowing the system to start more quickly when a fire is detected. They are particularly recommended for buildings where rapid evacuation may be difficult, such as hospitals, nursing homes, and schools.
Special Purpose Sprinklers
Special purpose sprinklers are designed to protect specific types of structures or fire hazards. For example, high temperature sprinklers are designed for use in high temperature environments, such as furnaces or boiler rooms. Sprinklers designed to protect structures with high fire loads, such as warehouses, manufacturing facilities, are designed to deliver a larger volume of water and better cope with intense fires.
Sprinklers with lock
Closed-circuit sprinklers, also known as dry sprinklers, are designed for applications where low temperatures could cause water in pipes to freeze, such as garages or cold stores. In these sprinklers the pipes are typically dry and water is supplied only when the system is activated.
Sprinklers for the protection of historical buildings and valuable items
For facilities containing valuable or irreplaceable items, such as museums, libraries, or historic buildings, special dispersion sprinklers are used. They emit small drops of water that effectively suppress fire while minimizing the risk of damage to valuable items.
Choosing the Right Sprinklers
Selection of appropriate sprinklers depends on many factors. Consideration should be given to the type and function of the building, the type of materials stored or used in the building, and the specific processes occurring in the facility. It is also important to take into account local fire protection regulations and standards.
In addition, selecting the right sprinklers should take into account not only current needs but also future plans for the building. For example, if future modifications are planned that could increase the fire load, it may be worth considering higher capacity sprinklers.
Summary
Selecting the right fire sprinklers is a key element in ensuring effective fire protection. Different types of sprinklers are designed for different applications and fire hazards, and the right selection depends on many factors. Therefore, this process should be carried out by fire protection specialists who will consider all relevant aspects and interdependencies.