A basic fire sprinkler system consists of a primary water supply, controlled by an alarm panel, providing adequate flow rate and pressure to a central water supply piping system, usually located in an exterior wall or roof structure. The primary water supply in a fire sprinkler system serves to provide the required pressure to activate the main valves and stop the flow of water from the main supply. This type of system can be found in both residential and commercial applications.
Sprinkler systems work by applying water to hot areas that are being used, such as wood or dry leaves. Water is applied by the sprinkler heads placed strategically throughout the perimeter of the location, usually at floor level. The water is then directed towards the area being sprayed, where the fire extinguisher is activated. As the fire extinguisher dispenses water into the area, the water pressure will decrease. Once the pressure has been reduced enough, the main valves will open, releasing the stored water into the sprayed area.
Many fire sprinkler systems are controlled by a timer. This timer is usually integrated into the alarm panel to provide users with a simple and reliable method of controlling the system. Most systems use a battery backup to ensure that the water level in the sprayed area remains constant throughout the day.
Fire sprinkler systems are typically classified into two general types. The first is the direct-entry sprinkler, which is designed to pour directly into an area where it is needed. A direct-entry sprinkler is most often used in outdoor applications, as they are not exposed to the elements as easily as other systems.
A secondary system, referred to as an “insulated wall”, consists of a liner that is fitted between two walls and is filled with water. As the system dries, this water will fill any cracks and dents in the wall, acting as an additional barrier to fire. These systems can be installed over existing walls, or over any type of wall that has no wall studs.
Fire sprinkler systems are also divided by the number of outlets located in them. Direct-entry systems only have one outlet, while insulating systems will have multiple outlets.
There are two main types of fire sprinkler systems, the fixed system, and the variable system. A fixed system may have uprights that are mounted to the roof, allowing for a greater range of coverage compared to the portable system. The main components of a fixed system include the sprinkler head, valves, sensors, and control box, while the variable system consists of an elevated system mounted above the roof that can be programmed to spray the right amount of water to specific areas.
There are many factors to consider when purchasing a fire extinguisher system, including its installation, placement, size, and function. Depending on the type of application and how your business will use the sprinkler system will determine the most appropriate system for your needs.
Most fire extinguisher systems are designed to be installed on either an interior or exterior wall or on a fence. In many cases, the exterior system will be able to withstand any type of weather and is more cost-effective as a result. In order to determine if the exterior system is an appropriate choice, you will want to take into consideration several different things; for example, if you are using the system on a garage floor, it is important that it is rated to withstand the extreme temperatures experienced there, as well as the amount of traffic that passes by the area.
Also, you should consider the placement of the sprinkler heads. If you are installing the system on the exterior of your building, the placement of the sprinkler heads should line in relation to the sprinkler head is critical.
Installation is also important. You will need to ensure that you have the appropriate sprinkler heads for the location where the system is being installed and that they are compatible with the system in question. Most fire extinguishers will come with installation instructions that will help you in getting everything installed correctly.
If you are choosing a fire extinguisher system that will be used outdoors, you will want to make sure the system you choose is compatible with the weather that your area is in. Certain locations will have conditions that cause the system to become ineffective, such as heavy rain, high winds, or strong winds. If you live in a part of the country where precipitation falls at a certain rate, you will want to consider having your system installed on a foundation that is above ground.