Home » Industries » Fire Protection » Fire Sprinklers

Fire Sprinklers

Fire sprinklers are a crucial component of fire protection systems designed to suppress or extinguish fires in buildings. They are an active fire protection measure that responds automatically to the presence of fire, helping to prevent the spread of flames and control the intensity of the fire until firefighters arrive. Here are some key points about fire sprinklers:

  1. Activation Mechanism: Fire sprinklers are activated by heat, not smoke. Each sprinkler head is equipped with a heat-sensitive element, typically a glass bulb containing a liquid that expands when exposed to heat. When the ambient temperature near the sprinkler head reaches a predetermined level, the bulb bursts, releasing water.
  2. Types of Sprinklers:
    • Wet Pipe Sprinklers: The most common type, where water is constantly present in the pipes, ready to be discharged immediately when a sprinkler head activates.
    • Dry Pipe Sprinklers: Typically used in unheated buildings or areas prone to freezing temperatures. The pipes are filled with pressurized air or nitrogen, and when a sprinkler activates, the valve opens, allowing water to flow into the piping system and discharge through the sprinkler head.
    • Pre-action Sprinklers: Similar to dry pipe systems, but water is held back by an electrically operated valve. The valve opens only when a fire detection system detects smoke or heat.
  3. Sprinkler Head Types:
    • Pendant Sprinklers: Hang down from the ceiling.
    • Upright Sprinklers: Point upward and are used in areas where obstructions might interfere with pendant sprinklers.
    • Sidewall Sprinklers: Installed on the side walls of a room or building.
  4. Water Supply: Fire sprinklers are connected to a reliable water supply, often the building’s main water line. The water supply must provide sufficient pressure and volume to ensure effective firefighting capabilities.
  5. Coverage Area: Each sprinkler head covers a specific area, and the spacing of sprinklers is designed to provide uniform coverage throughout the protected space.
  6. Effectiveness: Fire sprinklers are highly effective in controlling and suppressing fires. Studies have shown that the majority of fires are contained or extinguished by the operation of just one or two sprinkler heads.
  7. Benefits:
    • Life Safety: Protects occupants by slowing down the spread of fire and allowing more time for evacuation.
    • Property Protection: Limits fire damage, reducing the risk of complete loss.
    • Reduced Firefighting Response Time: Helps control the fire until firefighters arrive.
  8. Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure that sprinkler systems function properly when needed. This includes checking for leaks, ensuring proper water pressure, and inspecting sprinkler heads.

Fire sprinklers play a crucial role in enhancing overall fire safety and minimizing the potential impact of fires in various settings, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Founded in 1982, Tecpro Australia has developed an enviable reputation for providing reliable and cost-effective technical solutions for a vast range of industrial applications. Products suitable for fire sprinklers application include:
* Spray Nozzles
* Misting Systems
* Dust Controllers
* Design, Fabrication & Consulting

Our customers benefit from the following:
• Access to a broad range of quality solutions and technical advice
• Local sales support and customer service with a focus on integrity and honesty
• Over 30 years’ experience of providing expertise and solutions
• Quality European manufactured products.

Related Articles