Sprinkler systems are perhaps the most effective mainstream firefighting instruments available in the market today to prevent or control fire. They operate on their own and are very useful in minimizing death, cases of injuries, and destruction of property.
But how are these brilliant systems able to identify the fire occurrence and its subsequent reaction? What makes such patents so reliable and effective?
This guide is a detailed overview of all these questions including how are fire sprinklers activated and their role in present-day fire prevention plans.
Get Your Fire Sprinkler System Today!
Don’t wait for disaster to strike—ensure your property is equipped with the best fire safety solutions.
To know how fire sprinklers operate, one must first appreciate the different parts that make up the system as well as what each of them does. A typical fire sprinkler includes:
- Sprinkler Head: The outside part of the system that releases water once activated.
- Heat-Sensitive Element: Sometimes a container made of glass with a liquid enclosed, or a metallic chain called a fusible link which is designed to melt at a particular temperature.
- Piping System: Tubing through which water is supplied to the heads of the sprinklers.
- Deflector Plate: This is a plate of metal positioned at the opening of the sprinkler that guarantees an equal spread of water over the fireplace.
The components as joined together comprise a most dependable fire detection and prevention system that is able to prevent a fire from growing to an uncontrollable extent.
Why Fire Sprinklers Are So Reliable?
Fire sprinklers work on sound principles, which are easy to understand and that is why it is a very reliable fire-fighting solution.
While a smoke alarm simply produces a sound that will prompt occupants to evacuate their premises, fire sprinklers help to control the fire by issuing water to extinguish it or to prevent it from spreading.
The fact that water is used as the extinguishing agent makes a fire sprinkler one of the most effective in doing away with most types of fires.
Water not only helps to put out the fire but also assists in wetting any nearby material which minimizes chances of fire breakout.
How Are Fire Sprinklers Activated? 3 Ways
Fire sprinklers work based on a fixed and systematic sequence of functions.
Let’s dive into the process step by step:
1. Heat Detection
When a fire sprinkler is activated it does so as a result of heat being detected. Each sprinkler head contains a heat-sensitive element, such as:
- Glass Bulb: Containing some sort of fluid that is under pressure, which when pressure builds, the bulb breaks.
- Fusible Link: A metal component that has a certain melting point that can let the water sprinkler head flow.
On the same note, sprinklers do not act on smoke; they only release once they feel heat.
The ignition temperature differs with the various sprinkler types and applications and normally falls between 135°F and 500°F (57°C to 260°C).
2. Water Release
When the heat-sensitive element attains its expanded state, the sprinkler head goes on releasing pressure water from the piping system.
Every head of the sprinkler works on its own; thus, only the sprinkler heads next to the source of fire will pop.
This localized effect reduces water damage while containing the fire at the same time.
3. Fire Suppression
When water escapes the sprinkler head it first comes into contact with a deflector plate that causes it to issue out as a fine mist.
This spray extinguishes the flame, as well as the environment that can cause the fire to flare up.
Color Codes: Fire Sprinkler Temperature Ratings
Fire sprinklers are designed for different environments and temperature conditions.
Each sprinkler head features a color-coded glass bulb that indicates the fire sprinkler activation temperature. Some common color codes include:
- Orange: Activates at 135°F (57°C)
- Red: Activates at 155°F (68°C)
- Blue: Activates at 286°F (141°C)
- Green: Activates at 200°F (93°C)
- Purple: Activates at 360°F (182°C)
These color codes ensure that the right sprinkler is used for the specific fire risks of a property.
Measuring a Fire Sprinkler’s Thermal Sensitivity
The response time index (RTI) is specifically employed as the fire sprinkler’s thermal sensitivity gauge. This one shows how fast a sprinkler head operates as a result of heat.
- Low RTI: Indicates a fast response time, suitable for environments where rapid fire suppression is critical.
- High RTI: Suggests a lower degree of performance, which will be suitable for regions where firefighters’ role is to confine the fire.
Thermal sensitivity plays a crucial role in choosing the right type of sprinkler for a specific application.
Standard Response vs. Fast Response Sprinklers
There are two main types of fire sprinklers based on their response characteristics:
1. Standard Response Sprinklers
- Designed for industrial and commercial buildings.
- Focus on containing the fire until firefighters arrive.
- Typically operates with a higher RTI.
2. Fast Response Sprinklers
- Commonly used in residential and office settings.
- Prioritize life safety by suppressing fires quickly.
- Feature a lower RTI for rapid activation.
Choosing the right sprinkler depends on the property’s use and fire safety requirements.
Addressing Misconceptions About Fire Sprinklers
Myth 1: Sprinklers Activate Due to Smoke or Cooking Fumes
Sprinklers are responsive to heat and are not activated by smoke or any type of fume. This also means that cases of activating the motion sensors by other means are minimal.
Myth 2: All Sprinklers Activate at Once
The truth is that only those sprinkler heads that are exposed to heat go off. This helps to avoid more loss of water in areas that have not been occupied by the fire.
Myth 3: Sprinklers Cause Excessive Water Damage
Water discharged by a sprinkler is not nearly as much as a stream used by a firefighter’s hose would be. Fire sprinklers contain the extent of the fire since they aim at the fire.
Where is the Water Stored in Fire Sprinklers?
The way water is stored in fire sprinkler systems depends on the type of system. Here’s a breakdown of the common storage methods:
1. Wet Pipe Systems
In wet pipe systems, water is stored directly in the pipes under pressure. When heat activates a sprinkler head, the water is immediately released.
2. Dry Pipe Systems
Dry pipe systems keep pressurized air or nitrogen in the pipes instead of water. The water is stored separately, typically in a reservoir or tank, and only flows into the pipes when a sprinkler head activates. These systems are ideal for cold climates where freezing could be an issue.
3. Pre-Action Systems
For pre-action systems, water is stored in a separate reservoir or supply line. Two steps are required for activation: first, a heat detector must signal the system, and then a sprinkler head must open, allowing water to flow into the pipes.
4. Deluge Systems
Deluge systems store water in a central tank or main supply. When a fire detection system is triggered, water flows through open sprinkler heads across the entire area.
5. Gravity or Elevated Tanks
In some cases, water is stored in elevated tanks. These systems rely on gravity to provide the pressure needed for the sprinklers.
6. Pressurized Tanks or Municipal Supply
Some systems store water in pressurized tanks, while others connect directly to a municipal water supply for a consistent and reliable flow.
How do Fire Sprinklers Go Off?
Fire sprinklers stop spraying water automatically once the fire is extinguished, but in some cases, you may need to turn them off manually. Here’s how it works:
1. Automatic Shutoff
Each sprinkler head operates independently. Only the sprinklers exposed to high heat will activate. Once the fire is out and the area cools, water flow from those sprinklers stops automatically.
2. Manual Shutoff Valve
You can manually stop the water by using the system’s control or shutoff valve. This valve is usually located near the water supply or fire alarm panel.
- Look for a valve labeled “Fire Sprinkler Control” or “Main Shutoff.”
- Turn the valve to the “off” position to stop water flow.
3. Seek Professional Assistance
For larger buildings or more complex systems, it’s best to contact building management or a fire safety expert. They will ensure the system is shut down correctly and help prevent accidental damage.
Ready to Install Your Fire Sprinkler?
Protect your building today with a reliable fire sprinkler system
Frequently Asked Questions
Fire sprinklers remain on until the fire is extinguished or the water supply is manually shut off.
These devices are heat-activated and can operate only after the atmosphere surrounding the sprinkler head has risen to a given temperature with the common range between 135 °F and 500 °F.
Well, no fire sprinklers do not detect smoke in the area but their function is to detect heat. All of them are heat-activated, and none of them is sensitive to light.
Activation is very infrequent, and the only common reason is that the sprinkler head has been destroyed or there is a major mechanical malfunction.
No, fire sprinklers do not detect vape. Fire sprinklers are heat-activated and do not respond to smoke, vapor, or fumes, including those from vaping.
No, fire sprinklers are activated by heat, not smoke.
No, fire sprinklers require significant heat or force to activate, not just touch.
Ensure Safety with Reliable Fire Sprinkler Systems
Fire sprinkler systems are one of the single most important elements of fire protection, providing fast and automatic fire fighting without requiring the intervention of firemen.
Thus, revealing myths and studying the activation process of such systems will help property owners make effective decisions for installing and maintaining these life-saving systems.
Get in touch with GreenTech right now to find out how we can improve your fire protection plan with our specialist services.
Contact Us Today To Install Fire Sprinkler System
