fire sprinkler system

fire sprinkler system are an essential part of firefighting systems, as they play a vital role in protecting lives and property. These systems rely on automatic detection of high temperatures in the event of a fire in order to then drain water or fire retardant materials to control it before it spreads.

Fire sprinklers represent the first line of defense in many buildings and facilities and are designed to provide a quick and effective response in reducing damage and protecting the surrounding environment.

Types of fire sprinklers PDF

fire sprinkler system are divided into several types based on the nature of use and site conditions. In some applications, the sprinkler operates at a temperature of 68°C, where a metal connection inside the sprinkler melts, allowing water to flow forcefully toward the fire.

Some other types of sprayers contain a glass capsule filled with mercury. The mercury expands as the temperature rises, causing the capsule to break at the specified temperature.

The temperatures at which sprayers operate vary depending on different applications. For example, in car garages, sprinklers operate at a temperature of 68 degrees Celsius. As for kitchens and rooms that contain high heat sources, it is preferable to install sprinklers that operate at higher temperatures to suit the ambient conditions. Here are some types of fire sprinklers:

• Pendant Sprinkler 
  • It is directed downwards, so that the water flows in the same direction. This type of sprinkler is used when there are suspended ceilings, and is suitable for all types of buildings and different levels of severity.
• Side Wall Sprinkler
  •  Used when it is difficult to use other types of sprinklers. It is installed next to the wall, and the water flows in a horizontal direction.
• Fast Response Sprinkler
  • The quick-response fire sprinkler system is characterized by its ability to quickly detect fire and carry out the extinguishing process with high efficiency. This type is used in places that may produce toxic gases when fires break out, which poses a great danger to lives. Therefore, it is best used in these locations to protect lives and reduce damage.
• Semi Recessed Sprinkler
  •  It is used when the goal is to add an aesthetic or decorative character to the place. Only the upper part of the sprinkler is visible, while the rest of the parts remain hidden inside the false ceilings.
• Concealed fire sprinkler
  • It is installed entirely within the false ceilings, with only the covering covering it visible. When a fire occurs, the cover falls so that water flows from the sprinkler hole downward. This type is also used when wanting to achieve an aesthetic appearance or décor that is consistent with the place.
• Open Sprinkler 
  • It does not contain a temperature sensor, and it remains open permanently. When water flows through the pipes connected to it, it flows directly through the sprinkler hole to the bottom. It is operated manually or by quick-response valves.

Fire sprinkler distribution schedule

The distribution of fire sprinkler system depends on several factors, such as the type of sprinkler, the degree of danger (fire danger) in the area, the distances between the sprinklers, and the height of the ceilings. The following is a general explanation of fire sprinkler distribution based on NFPA 13 (National Fire Protection Code):

Danger degrees are divided into three categories based on the type of combustible materials:

• (Light Hazard)
  •  These include accidents resulting from the burning of materials such as paper, plastic and wood. They are usually found in the following places:

• Clubs
• Lecture halls
• Hospitals
• Libraries (except large stores)
• Museums
• Offices
• Restaurants
• Ordinary Hazard 
  • Includes places such as parking lots, bakeries, food factories, electronic terminals, glass industries, laundries, and catering services.
  • They include chemical laboratories, dry cleaners, horse stables, workshops, large libraries, metal and paper industries, post offices, theatres, repair garages, tire industries, and woodworking machinery.
• Extra Hazard
  • Businesses dealing with combustible hydraulic oils include foundries, ink kitchens, rubber industries, and cotton industries.
  • Industries dealing with compressed gases include the detergents, polishes, paints, and asphalt industries.

 

Also learn about: Fire extinguishing systems

Distance between fire sprinklers

The areas covered by the sprinklers vary according to the degree of danger, and the distance between the sprinklers is also affected by the type of danger, whether it is light, normal, or high:

• Light risk: The sprinkler covers an area of ​​17-21 square metres, and the maximum distance between each two sprinklers is 4.6 metres.
• Normal risk: The sprinkler covers an area of ​​9-12 square meters, and the maximum distance between sprinklers is 4.6 metres.
• High risk: The sprinkler covers an area of ​​9 square metres, and the maximum distance between sprinklers is 3.7 metres.

 

If the distance between two sprinklers is less than 1.2 meters (6 feet), this may negatively affect the operation of the adjacent sprinkler, as cooling of the surrounding air can deactivate it and prevent it from suppressing the fire.

The minimum distance between the sprinkler and the wall should be 4 inches (1.2 cm).

Also learn about: co2 fire suppression system

fire sprinkler system design

Designing fire sprinklers requires careful attention to several factors to ensure their effectiveness in dealing with accidents. The design begins with determining the appropriate type of sprinkler based on the needs of the place, such as open, hidden, or quick-response sprinklers.

 The degree of danger is also classified based on the type of combustible materials, such as light, normal, or high danger. The design includes specifying the areas covered by each sprinkler and the distances between the sprinklers to ensure comprehensive coverage. 

Installation must be carried out in accordance with technical standards to ensure optimal performance, and regular maintenance must also be considered to ensure that the sprinklers remain in good condition. In addition, hidden or semi-hidden sprinklers can be chosen to improve the aesthetics in places that require an elegant appearance.

Fire sprinkler installation

fire sprinkler system must be installed to ensure the safety of people and property. Their importance is represented in the following points:

• Effectiveness in extinguishing minor fires: It reduces damage and prevents fires from developing into more dangerous situations.
• Ease of use: It works automatically without the need for human intervention.
• Reasonable cost: Despite their high initial cost, they save money in the long run thanks to their ability to reduce fire damage.

United Group Company, the exclusive and sole agent for the Emirati company Watex in Egypt, is one of the leading companies in the field of installing fire sprinklers, as it provides a variety of sprinklers that meet all needs and budgets, including fixed and mobile sprinklers. 

The company also includes a team of professional technicians capable of installing sprinklers with high efficiency and in record time.

fire pendant sprinkler

The pendant fire sprinkler system is a type of fire sprinkler that is distinguished by its design that allows water to flow downward. This sprinkler is installed so that it is directed directly from the ceiling, which makes it suitable for suspended or low ceilings. Among the features of the pendant fire sprinkler are:

• Downward flow of water: It allows the sprinkler to effectively cover a wide area, which helps put out fires quickly and effectively.
• Suitable for suspended ceilings: Its design makes it ideal for suspended or low ceilings, as it can be installed clearly and has an effective fire suppression effect.
• Ease of maintenance: Provides easy access for maintenance and inspection thanks to its design that hangs from the ceiling.
• Suspended fire sprinkler system are used in a variety of settings, including offices, schools, and hospitals, where suspended ceilings are common.

Read more about: ul fm approved fire pumps

 

How to distribute fire sprinklers

Distribution of fire sprinklers depends on several factors to ensure effective and comprehensive coverage. Here's how to distribute fire sprinklers:

1. Determine the degree of risk:

• Light Hazard: includes places such as offices and libraries.
• Ordinary Hazard: includes factories and stores.
• Extra Hazard: This includes heavy industries or places containing highly flammable materials.

2. Calculating area and coverage:

• Area covered by the sprinkler: determined based on the degree of danger.
• Light risk: 17-21 square metres.
• Normal severity: 9-12 square metres.
• High risk: 9 square metres.

3. Distance between sprinklers:

• Light hazard: up to 4.6 metres.
• Normal risk: up to 4.6 metres.
• High risk: up to 3.7 metres.

4. Choosing the type of sprinkler:

• Pendant Sprinklers: Water flows downward, ideal for suspended ceilings.
• Side Wall Sprinklers: They are installed next to the wall and the water flow is horizontal.
• Recessed Sprinklers: They are completely hidden inside ceilings, providing an aesthetic appearance.

5. Installation of sprinklers:

• Distance from walls: Sprinklers should be at least 1.2 meters away from walls to avoid overlapping coverage.
• Avoid Obstructions: Make sure sprinklers are not blocked by furniture or other structures.

6. Performance check:

• Pressure Tests: Make sure the system provides sufficient pressure to operate all sprinklers effectively.
• Regular maintenance: Check that the sprinklers are working properly and that there are no obstructions in the water system.

7. Commitment to standards:

• NFPA Standards: Ensure that sprinkler distribution complies with NFPA standards or approved local code to ensure compliance with safety laws.
• Properly distributing fire sprinkler system ensures the necessary protection against fires and helps control them effectively before they develop into major accidents.

Fire sprinkler prices in Egypt

The fire fighting system is one of the basic systems that cannot be dispensed with in any institution, especially in vital facilities, as this system aims to protect the lives of individuals within the facility by providing effective means to control fires quickly if they break out. Here are some factors that affect the prices Fire sprinklers in Egypt:

• Manufacturing country
  • Fire sprinklers are often imported from abroad, as they come from several countries that differ in their quality and prices. In Egypt, fire sprinkler prices vary depending on the country of origin, with German and American sprinklers being among the highest in price.
• fire sprinkler system type
  • There are many types of fire sprinklers to suit different purposes and designs, ranging from sprinklers hidden in ceilings and walls, to clear vision. Choosing the type of sprinkler depends on the building’s design and decorations, such as the presence of a suspended ceiling or the height of the floors, as follows:
  • Pendant fire sprinkler: Water flows from it downward, and it can be installed on the ceilings and walls of various buildings.
  • Up-right fire sprinkler: Water flows upwards and then descends downward. It is preferable to install it on traditional rather than suspended ceilings.
  • Horizontal Sidewall fire sprinkler system: Mounted on the wall and the water flow is horizontal.
  • Concealed fire sprinkler: Ideal for suspended ceilings, as it is completely hidden behind a cover, and water flows down automatically when a fire occurs.

Contact us to get the best fire sprinkler system prices in Egypt through phone numbers or through our website United Company Group is the exclusive and only agent for the Emirati company Watex in Egypt and the largest agent of fire pumps in Egypt.