There are several different types of fire sprinkler systems. Here is our guide to a sprinkler system.
Guide To A Fire Sprinkler System
In this guide, we look at sprinkler bulbs and the types of sprinkler system.
Sprinkler colour codes
As well as the nozzle, a key part of a sprinkler system is the bulb. These can vary in thickness, and their colour varies according to their temperature settings. Ordinary systems will have orange or red bulbs. You may also find yellow or green bulbs for intermediate temperatures and blue bulbs for high-temperature applications. These can quench fires of up to 246 degrees Celsius. Purple bulbs can handle up to 302 degrees Celsius, and if even higher temperatures are likely, there is a black bulb.
Types of fire sprinkler systems
The four main types of fire sprinkler system are:
Wet Pipe
Wet Pipe systems are the most common type of sprinkler system. They are found in offices and homes. They store a water-based extinguishant under pressure in pipes. They activate immediately when fire is detected.
Dry Pipe
Where the pipes might freeze, dry pipe sprinkler systems are used as an alternative to a standard wet pipe sprinkler system. Pressurised air or nitrogen is stored in the pipes, and this is activated first, followed by water. Unlike wet pipe sprinklers, there is a slight delay before they activate.
Deluge
Deluge sprinkler systems are used in areas where rapid damage from fire is a major concern. For example, warehouses filled with flammable materials. They are similar to wet pipe installations with one major difference: their nozzle is always open. A deluge-based sprinkler is triggered via a special alarm that opens a valve to release water.
Pre-Action
The pre-action sprinkler system combines wet pipe and dry pipe sprinkler systems. They are used in areas at risk from water damage. No water is stored in the pipes until a fire is detected. Then, the device first opens a valve in the pipes to release the water, prior to opening the sprinkler heads. Once open, its response time is as quick as a standard wet pipe system.
RV Fire Systems
RV Fire Systems are specialists in the design, supply, installation, commissioning of all types of fire alarm systems across the UK. Call our team today on one of our local numbers below to find out more about fire sprinkler systems and other intelligent fire safety products.
Preston Fire Alarms:- 01772 970411
Manchester Fire Alarms:- 0161 8260480
Blackburn Fire Alarms:- 01254 367611
Blackpool Fire Alarms:- 01253 804199
