Firefighting

/ - -
Ibrahim_mostafa@ymail.com

We would like to express our thanks to our supervisor
for the continuous guidance,
helpful comments and invaluable suggestion and kind
advice which helped this work to be in its present form.

July 2011

Abstract
Actually, the majorities of people die or get injured in fires because of
exposure to hazardous smoke and toxic gases and not actual burns. In
addition, smoke often obscures Vision and thereby decreases the ability of
fire victims to escape. Carbon monoxide poisoning is the major cause of
death following smoke inhalation.
We have to study the alarm system and fire fighting and its component in
details with the international alarm codes, and design a network fire alarm
system for a factory then design and implementation of the alarm System
model at last test the design.
Also we have to study the ventilation system to ensure sufficient air
movement, sufficient amount of air supply, Heat loss by convection for
human body due to evaporation of sweet by ventilation and Decrease
concentration of co2.

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Contents Page
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Objective
Chapter (1) Introduction
1.1 Fire
1.2 Elements of Fire Triangle
1.2.1 Fuel
1.2.2 Oxygen
1.2.3 Heat
1.2.4 Chemical Reaction
1.3 Fire Classification
1.3.1 Class A (Ordinary combustibles)
1.3.2 Class B (Flammable liquids or gases)
1.3.2 Class C (Electrical equipment)
1.4.4 Class D (Flammable metals)
1.3.5 Class K (vegetable oils, animal oils)
1.4 Conclusion

Chapter (2) Alarm System

2.1 Introduction
2.2 Fundamental configuration
2.3 Requirements of detection system selection
2.4 Determination of the proper detection system
2.5 Stages of combustion
2.5.1 Incipient stage
2.5.2 Smoldering stage
2.5.3 Flame stage
2.5.4 Heat stage
2.6 Fire detection systems
2.6.1 Conventional system
2.6.2 Addressable system
2.7 System components
2.7.1 Control panel
2.7.2 Inputs
Detectors
Manual Call Point (MCP)
2.7.3 Outputs (notifications)
2.7.4 Isolators
2.7.5 Control modules
2.8 Conclusion

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Chapter (3) Fire Fighting

3.1 Manual Fire Fighting
3.1.1 Fire Extinguishers
Water extinguisher
Foam extinguisher
Dry Powder Extinguishers
Carbon Dioxide CO2 Extinguishers
Halon Extinguishers
3.1.2 Fire Hoses
Types of Fire Hoses
Hose Reinforcement
Linings and Covers
Hose Quality Requirements
Fire Hose Reel
Occupancy required self-protection by using hose reel:
Hose Reel System Components
Hose Reel Design Criteria
Hose Reel Installation

3.2 Automatic Sprinkler System
3.2.1Types of water sprinkler system
3.2.2 Sprinkler head
3.2.3 Rising mains system
3.3 Conclusion

Chapter (4) Ventilation

4.1 Introduction
4.2 Main Difference between Ventilation and Air conditioning
4.3 Factors affecting ventilation design
4.4 Good and Bad Air Distribution
4.5 Ventilation Configurations
4.5.1 Positive Pressure Applications
4.5.2 Negative Pressure Applications
4.6 Methods of ventilation rate determination
4.6.1 Experience method
4.6.2Exact method
4.6.3Approximate method
4.7 Evaporative cooling
4.7.1 Direct Evaporative Cooling Process
4.7.2 Indirect Evaporative Cooling Process
4.8 Conclusion

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Chapter (5) Application

5.1 Introduction
5.2 Alarm system design
5.2.1 Basics of design
5.2.2 Positioning of smoke and combined detectors
5.2.3 Positioning of manual call point and notification
devices
5.2.4 Fire alarm control panel.
5.2.6 Design data

5.3 Manuel Firefighting
5.3.1 Classification of Hazards according to NFPA 10
5.3.2 Extinguisher rating according to NFPA 10
5.3.3 Fire Extinguisher selection and distribution for
a factory
5.4. Automatic Firefighting
5.4.1 Automatic Sprinkler System Hydraulic Calculation
5.4.2 Hose reel residual pressure calculation
5.4.3 Sprinkler System Hydraulic Calculation using elite
software
Elite Report
5.4.4 pump installation
5.4.5 pump selection

5.5 Ventilation system calculation
5.5.1 Cooling load calculations
5.5.2 Jet nozzle selection
5.5.3 Duct sizing

Chapter (6) Conclusion

Chapter (7) References

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List of tables
Table(1-1) Fire classification

Table(2-1) ceiling height and % of decrease in spacing between detectors
Table(2-2) Application of fixed temperature and R-O-R detectors
Table(2-3) Comparison between types of flame detector

Table (3-1) occupancy distribution
Table (3-2) Range of sprinkler head operating temperature rating

Table (4-1) Difference between air conditioning and ventilation
Table (4-2) Air change per hour in approximate method

Table (5-1) Distribution of detectors, MCP, isolators, notification and control
module
Table (5-2) Maximum area to be protected per extinguisher
Table (5-3) Fire extinguisher size and placement for class B
Table ( 5-4) Class A rating
Table (5-5) Class B rating
Table (5-6) Sprinkler protection area and max. spacing
Table (5-7) Ordinary hazard pipe schedule
Table (5-8) Hazen-Williams c value
Table (5-9) Sprinkler discharge characteristics identifications
Table (5-10) Equivalent pipe length of valves and fittings
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Page
Fig (1-1) Fire Triangle
Fig (1-2) Chemical reactions
Fig (1-3) Fire Classes

Fig (2-1) Conventional alarm system
Fig (2-2) Conventional control panel
Fig (2-3) Addressable system
Fig (2-4) Photoelectric spot type smoke detector
Fig (2-5) Spot type smoke detector operation
Fig (2-6) Beam/line smoke detector
Fig (2-7) Ionization smoke detector
Fig (2-8) Smoke detector installation on wall
Fig (2-9) Smoke detector installation on roof triangle room
Fig (2-10) Beam detector installation
Fig (2-11) Spot type heat detector
Fig (2-12) Bi-metal Heat detector
Fig (2-13) Flame detectors regions
Fig (2-14) Fire alarm pull station
Fig (2-15) Manual Call Point (break glass)
Fig (2-16) Audible notification devices
Fig (2-17) Visual notification devices

Fig (3-1) Fire extinguishers
Fig (3-2) Water extinguisher
Fig (3-3) Foam extinguisher
Fig (3-4) Dry powder extinguisher
Fig (3-5) Carbon dioxide extinguisher
Fig (3-6) Halon extinguisher
Fig (3-7) Attack hoses
Fig (3-8) Supply and relay hoses
Fig (3-9) Forestry hoses
Fig (3-10) Booster hoses
Fig (3-11) Suction Hoses
Fig (3-12) Fire hose reel
Fig (3-13) Wet sprinkler system
Fig (3-14 .a) Dry pipe sprinkler system
Fig (3-14.b) Wet pipe valves
Fig (3-15) Sprinkler head operation sequences
Fig (3-16) Dry sprinkler system
Fig (3-17) Dry pipe sprinkler system
Fig (3-18) Dry pipe valves
Fig (3-19) Pre action sprinkler system
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Fig (3-20) pre-action valve
Fig (3-21) Deluge Sprinkler system
Fig (3-22) Deluge valve
Fig (3-23) Conventional sprinkler
Fig (3-24) Upright sprinkler
Fig (3-25) Side wall sprinkler
Fig (3-26) Horizontal sprinkler
Fig (3-27) ESFR sprinkler
Fig (3-28) Concealed sprinkler
Fig (3-29) Dry rising main
Fig (3-31) Wet rising main
Fig (3-32) Fire service inlet
Fig (3-33) Landing valve

Fig (4-1) Air distribution
Fig (4-2) Positive Pressure Applications
Fig (4-3) Negative Pressure Applications
Fig (4-4) Direct evaporative cooling
Fig (4-5) Indirect evaporative cooling

Fig (5-1) Factory drawing
Fig (5-2) Fire alarm control panel (NFS2-3030)
Fig (5-3) Installed sprinkler system
Fig (5-4) Area of sprinkler operation
Fig (5-5) Pump installation
Fig (5-6) Pump selection

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Project Objective

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The objective of the project is:
1. Studying the alarm system and its component in details according to
NFPA 72.
2. Studying the firefighting system and its component in details
according to the international firefighting code.
NFPA 10 standard for portable fire extinguisher, 2002 edition
NFPA 13 standard for installation of sprinkler system, 2002
edition
3. Studying forced ventilation system
4. Applying alarm, firefighting and ventilation systems on our case
study (Food Industries Factory)

Chapter one Introduction

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1.1 Fire
Quite simply, the fire is a chemical reaction involves
the rapid oxidation of the flammable materials.
In the past we know the so-called Triangle of ignition,
which consists of: material, oxygen, a source of
ignition, but recently changed this concept to become
elements of ignition four elements instead of three,
and added the fourth element: chemical reaction
sequence for the fire which led to the composition of
the pyramid of ignition instead of Ignition triangle.

Figure (1-1)
1.2 Elements of Fire Triangle
1. Fuel (Combustible Substances)
2. Air (Oxygen)
3. Heat (Sources of Ignition)
4. Chain Chemical Reaction

1.2.1 Fuel
Fuel can be any combustible material - solid, liquid or gas. Most solids and liquids
become a vapor or gas before they will burn. So fuel is anything that will burn, for
example:
a) Clothing
b) Furniture
c) Curtains
d) Flammable liquids


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1.2.2 OXYGEN
The air we breathe is about 21 percent oxygen. Fire only needs an atmosphere with at
least 16 percent oxygen.
Oxygen is always present in the home. If you can separate heat sources from
combustibles, you will have taken the first step toward fire prevention.

1.2.3 HEAT
Heat is the energy necessary to increase the temperature of the fuel to a point where
sufficient vapors are given off for ignition to occur.
Heat sources for example: (anything that produces heat)
a) Stoves
b) Heating appliances
c) Fire places
d) Damaged electrical wiring

1.2.4. Chemical Reaction
A chain reaction as shown in Figure (1-2) can occur when the three elements of fire
are present in the proper conditions and proportions. Fire occurs when this rapid
oxidation or burning takes place.

Figure (1-2)
Take any one of these factors away, and the fire cannot occur or will be extinguished
if it was already burning.


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1.3 Fire Classification
1.3.1 Class A (Ordinary combustibles)
Ordinary combustibles or fibrous material, such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber and
some plastics.
Use pressurized water, foam or multi-purpose (ABC-rated) dry chemical
extinguishers. DO NOT USE carbon dioxide or ordinary (BC-rated) dry chemical
extinguishers on Class A fires
1.3.2 Class B ( Flammable liquids or gases)
Flammable or combustible liquids such as gasoline, kerosene, paint, paint thinners
and propane.
Foam, carbon dioxide, ordinary (BC-rated) dry chemical, multi-purpose dry chemical,
and halon extinguishers may be used to fight Class B fires.

1.3.2 Class C (Electrical equipment)
Energized electrical equipment, such as appliances, switches, panel boxes and power
tools.
Carbon dioxide, ordinary (BC-rated) dry chemical, multi-purpose dry chemical and
halon fire extinguishers may be used to fight Class C fires.
DO NOT USE water extinguishers on energized electrical equipment.

1.4.4 Class D (Flammable metals)
Certain combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, potassium and sodium.
These metals burn at high temperatures and give off sufficient oxygen to support
combustion. They may react violently with water or other chemicals, and must be
handled with care.
Multipurpose (ABC-rated) chemical extinguishers leave a residue that can harm
sensitive equipment, such as computers and other electronic equipment. Because of
this, carbon dioxide or halon extinguishers are preferred in these instances because
they leave very little residue.

ABC dry powder residue is mildly corrosive to many metals. For example, residue
left over from the use of an ABC dry powder extinguisher in the same room with a
piano can seriously corrode piano wires. Carbon dioxide or halon extinguishers are
provided for most labs and computer areas on campus.


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1.3.5 Class K (vegetable oils, animal oils)
Class K fires are fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking
appliances. This is for commercial kitchens, including those found in restaurants,
cafeterias, and caterers.

Figure (1-3)


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1.4 Conclusion
In this chapter, weve discussed the fire mechanism, how fire reaction starts
and elements of fire triangle, thats why it was important to classify fire into
classes.
There are two types of fire classification
American European Fuel
Class A Class A Ordinary combustibles
Class A
Class B Flammable liquids
Class C Flammable gases
Class C Class E Electrical equipment
Class D Class D Combustible metals
Class K Class F Oils or fats
Table (1-1)

Chapter two Alarm System

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2.1 Introduction
An automatic fire alarm system is designed to detect the unwanted presence of fire by
monitoring environmental changes associated with combustion. In general, a fire alarm
system is classified as either automatically actuated, manually actuated, or both.
Automatic fire alarm systems are intended to notify the building occupants to evacuate in
the event of a fire or other emergency, report the event to an off-premises location in
order to summon emergency services, and to prepare the structure and associated systems
to control the spread of fire and smoke.
2.2 Fundamental configuration
Fire alarm control panel: This component, the hub of the system, monitors inputs and
system integrity, controls outputs and relays information.
Primary Power supply: Commonly the non-switched 120 or 240 Volt Alternating
Current source supplied from a commercial power utility. In non-residential applications,
a branch circuit is dedicated to the fire alarm system and its constituents. "Dedicated
branch circuits" should not be confused with "Individual branch circuits" which supply
energy to a single appliance.
Secondary (backup) Power supplies: This component, commonly consisting of sealed
lead-acid storage batteries or other emergency sources including generators, is used to
supply energy in the event of a primary power failure.
Initiating Devices: This component acts as an input to the fire alarm control unit and are
either manually or automatically actuated. Examples would be devices like pull stations
or smoke detectors.
Notification appliances: This component uses energy supplied from the fire alarm
system or other stored energy source, to inform the proximate persons of the need to take
action, usually to evacuate. This is done by means of a flashing light, strobe light,
electromechanical horn, speaker, or a combination of these devices.


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2.3 Requirements of detection system selection
a) It must be sensitive enough to detect combustion within an acceptable and required
time.
b) It must be reliable enough to not respond to non-fire activation sources.
2.4 Determination of the proper detection system
It depends on:
a) A basic knowledge of the function of the different detectors.
b) The hazard characteristics.
c) The stages of combustion.
2.5 Stages of combustion
2.5.1 Incipient stage
In this stage invisible products of combustion are produced.
Smoke is not visible, nor has the heat of combustion developed.
2.5.2 Smoldering stage
Occurs when the combustion has developed to the point where combustion products are
visible as smoke, but the flame and heat are not a factor.
2.5.3 Flame stage
The flame stage is an intermediate stage where considerable heat is not yet being
produced by the combustion, although this stage is very quickly move into the next, the
heat stage.
In this stage there may be a clean flame, but a little or no smoke.
2.5.4 Heat stage
The heat stage combines all the elements of combustion-invisible products as well as
visible smoke, flame and heat.


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2.6 Fire detection systems.
2.6.1 Conventional system.
A conventional system allows multiple devices to be connected to a single zone.
However, when an alarm sounds, you wont know where in the zone that fire is located.
These systems are used in older or smaller buildings.
As shown in figure (2-1) the building is sectioned into zones, and each zone is wired
back to the fire indicator panel separately.

Figure (2-1)

Figure (2-2)

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2.6.2 Addressable system.
Its more advanced and is usually installed in large buildings because it saves time to
identify the exact location of fire. The main panel will identify the device and its exact
location which will help you to know if the alarm is responding to heat, smoke or fire, as
shown in figure (2-3)
Panels usually have a number of signaling line circuits (SLCs) within the range of one to
thirty. Each SLC have a number of devices connected to it. Each device has its own
address. The loop may have up to 200 devices.

Figure (2-3)


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2.7 System components.
2.7.1 Control panel.
Control panel is a device that controlling components of a fire alarm system by receiving
signals from initiating devices and activates appropriate notifications devices.
Control panels can be classified to (conventional panel and addressable panel).
2.7.2 Inputs Devices
Detectors and manual call point
2.7.2.1 Detectors
They can be classified based on reset-ability
Resettable
Its a device in which the sensing element is not destroyed in the process of operation;
restoration can be manual or automatic.
Non-resettable
A device in which the sensing element is designed to be destroyed in the process of
operation, the sprinkler head is a good example.

They can be classified based on configuration
Point, Multi-point and Line

Types of detectors
1. Smoke detector
Smoke detectors are self-contained devices that can detect fire or smoke and set out an
alarm for the occupants of a building to evacuate its premises. Smoke alarms detect fire at
an early stage. This gives individuals ample time to leave the building that has caught
fire. Hence, installing smoke alarms help to reduce casualties to a large extent and
ensures fire safety.
All smoke detectors consist of two basic parts: a sensor to sense the smoke and a very
loud electronic horn to wake people up. Smoke detectors can run off of a 9-volt battery or
120-volt house current.
Types of Smoke Alarms
a) Photoelectric Smoke Detector
b) Ionization Smoke Detectors


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a) Photoelectric smoke detector
Uses the light-reflection to detect smoke
Spot type detector.

Figure (2-4)
A photoelectric smoke detector is activated by visible smoke particles entering the
detector. The photo electric detector responds to the thicker, heavier or visible smoke that
developed when slow developing and smoldering combustion is presented as shown in
figure (2-5).
A slow-burning or smolder fire is typical of combustion of materials found in the office,
home, photoelectric, hotels, and hospitals.

Figure (2-5)

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Beam / line type detector.
The linear beam smoke detector basically operates on the same principle as the
photoelectric smoke detector with a light source directed on a photo-sensitive receiver.
The difference is that the linear beam smoke detector consists of two separate units. The
light source is one piece of equipment, and the light beam receiver is a separate piece of
equipment as shown in figure (2-6).
This type of smoke detector has many applications in areas where spot-type smoke
detector could not be installed to operate efficiently
Such as
1. Airport terminals
2. With very high ceilings
3. Air craft hangers
4. Large open facilities

Figure (2-6)


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b) Ionization smoke detector
In some cases combustion should be detected in the incipient stage before there is
appreciable heat and smoke. So ionization detectors should be seriously considered
because they react when invisible products of combustion are given off by the
combustion before there is visible smoke has developed. It is very efficient when fire
developed rapidly into flaming stage.
Ionization smoke detectors use an ionization chamber and a source of ionizing radiation
to detect smoke, an ionization chamber is very simple .It consists of two plates with a
voltage across them, along with a radioactive source of ionizing radiation as shown in
figure (2-7).

Figure (2-7)
Photoelectric verses ionization smoke detectors
Photoelectric
Respond more quickly to smoldering (smoky) fires.
Ionization
Respond more quickly to flaming fires with smaller combustion particles, its less
expensive and less power requirements.

The engineer may, in order to provide reliable combustion detection, recommend the
installation of both ionization and photoelectric detectors in cases where fire cant be
easily determined.

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Smoke detector installation according to the Egyptian code
1. At first, you need to install one item in every bedroom and route way at least.
2. Stairway is important for you to rush out when fires occur, so there must install
smoke detector on the top of stairway.
3. You at least require one smoke alarm in every space of every floor, including
finished attics and basements.
4. Install one alarm beside every electric facility.
5. Youd better install smoke alarms in the middle of ceiling, because smoke always
spread up.
6. In areas where the number of air change per hour is more than 4, we need to increase
the number of installed detectors and it shouldnt face air current from the outlet of
air conditioning devices.
7. The distance between the detector and air outlet should be more than 1m.
8. If some reasons prevent you from installing them in the middle of ceiling, you also
need to install them at least 10cm away from the wall.
9. If you like to install them on the wall, they should be installed from 10 to 30 cm
away under the ceiling as shown in figure (2-8)

Figure (2-8)

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10. You need to install more than one alarm when the length of your hall exceeds 9m.
11. Installing smoke detectors under the flat horizontal ceiling.
The distance between each detector must not exceed 9m, and the horizontal distance
between any point in the protected area and the nearest detector must not exceed
7.5m. In all cases, you should refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
12. Installing smoke detectors under the flat oblique ceiling.
For the flat oblique ceiling in the same direction the detectors are distributed on the
area projected horizontally to the ceiling.
13. In a triangular roof room, install the alarm 0.9 m away from the top as shown in
figure (2-9).

Figure (2-9)

14. In case of the concrete beam is less than 30cm, it can be consider a flat ceiling, but
the spacing between the detectors will decrease.
15. For beam detectors, the high of rays shouldnt exceed 2.7 m to avoid false alarms.
16. For beam detector, the distance between the ray and the other one usually not
exceed (s=18 m), and the distance between the ray and the parallel wall shouldnt
exceed (s/2), and the distance from the sender or receiver to the wall shouldnt
exceed(s/4). As shown in figure (2-10).

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Figure (2-10)
17. It cant be used where combustion is permitted to produce. For example unventilated
kitchens, garages, and furnace.
18. It cant be used near fanner.
19. It cant be used in very damp, humid or steamy areas; keep units at least 3m away
from showers saunas, dishwashers, etc.
20. It cant be used in very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas.
21. It cant be used in very drafty areas, where smoke will be blown away from the unit
completely.
22. It cant be used in air-logged areas that will clog the sensing chamber.
23. It should be install at least 300 mm away from fluorescent lights. Electrical noise
can interfere with the sensor.
24. In smoking meeting room, don't install the alarm there for the unit will alarm when
several persons smoke.
Smoke detector testing
1. Test your smoke detector once a month.
2. Press the test button on your detector and check that the device beeps or rings
loudly.
3. Avoid lighting candles under the detector to see if the alarm goes off. Repeated
use of smoke to activate detectors can cause them to fail when a real fire occur

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2. Heat detectors.
Its the fire detector that detects either abnormally high temperature or rate of
temperature rise, or both.
It can be divided into
a) Fixed-Temperature Detector
b) Rate-of-Rise Detector

a) Fixed temperature heat detector
A device that responds when its operating element becomes heated to a predetermined
level

Spot type

Figure (2-11)

Physical principles of spot type heat detecting
1. Expansion of heated material
2. Melting of heated material
3. Changes in resistance of heated material


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Bimetal type
Uses 2 metals with different thermal expansion characteristics, when heated, one
metal expands faster than the other causing the strip to bend or arch.
Deflection of strip makes or breaks alarm circuit, initiating an alarm automatically
when cooled. Figure (2-12)

Figure (2-12)
Disadvantage of spot type fixed temperature heat detector
1. It has low sensitivity.
2. Designed for one time operation and the element need to be replaced.

b) Rate-of-rise heat detector
A device that responds when the temperature rises at a rate exceeding a
predetermined value
The rate of rise heat detector responds to a rate of temperature 15C per minute.
The disadvantage of R-O-R heat detector
Slow burning or smoldering combustion may produce considerable heat, and the ceiling
where the detector is located may rise to high temperature, but unless the rate of increase
of temperature is rapid enough to produce a 15C per minute, the detector will not
activate.
To avoid this disadvantage combination fixed temperature and rate of rise heat detector
are used.

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Factors affecting heat detector performance
1. Very high temperature or very low temperature in the room.
2. Ceiling height, because the detector senses the temperature when the flame reaches
to third of the distance between fire place and the ceiling.
Heat detector installation requirements according to the Egyptian code
1. Must take into account the movement of air currents inside the building as the face of
detectors to the renewable air currents, reduce its response.
2. It requires installing more detectors at places that the air changes are more than four
times per hour.
3. It cant be install the detector faced to the air conditioning unit, and generally the
distance between the detector and the air outlet shouldnt be less than 1m.
4. For the fixed temperature heat detector the operating temperature must not be less
than the normal temperature of the place to be protected by 14C, and not more than
28C.
5. The heat detector height must not exceed 9m from the floor at the normal temperature
and not exceed 6m at high temperature, in all cases; you should refer to the
manufacturer's instructions.
6. You need install more than one alarm when the length of your hall exceeds 9m.
7. The spot heat detectors should be installed so that the sensing unit spreading out from
the ceiling by 50mm.
8. The distance between each detector must not exceed 7m.
9. The heat detector installed under the ceiling by a space not less than 10cm, it can also
be installed on the wall by a space ranging from 10 to 30 cm as shown in figure (2-8).
10. Installing heat detectors under the flat horizontal ceiling.
The distance between each detector must not exceed 7m, and the horizontal distance
between any point in the protected area and the nearest detector must not exceed
5.3m. In all cases, you should refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
In case of the concrete beam that is more than 45cm, it can be consider a separate
area.
11. Installing heat detectors under the flat oblique ceiling.
For the flat oblique ceiling in the same direction the detectors are distributed on the
area projected horizontally to the ceiling.
12. In triangular roof room, install the alarm 0.9 m away from the top.
13. For the ceiling that mounted on concrete beams it is treated as a flat horizontal
ceiling.
14. If the ceiling is higher than 3m from the floor, the distance between each detector will
be multiplied by a value taken from table (2-1).

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Ceiling height (m) % of the described distance in between
from To
3 3.6 91
3.6 4.2 84
4.2 4.8 77
4.8 5.4 71
5.4 6 64
6 6.6 58
6.6 7.2 52
7.2 7.8 46
7.8 8.4 40
8.4 9 34
Table (2-1)

Heat detectors applications
1. When the smoke cant be used.
2. In very dusty, dirty, or greasy areas.
3. In very damp, humid or steamy areas.
4. Near fanner.

The next table shows the applications of fixed temperature and R-O-R detectors.
Applications offices Hotels kitchens stores factories chemicals garages
Fixed
temperature
detector
weak X excellent x x x moderate
Rate of rise
detector
weak X x weak weak excellent weak
Table (2-2)

Heat detector testing
It can be tested by heat source like hair dryer.


21

3. Flame detector.
A flame detector is a detector that uses optical sensors to detect flames, it can detect the
infra-red, ultraviolet or visible radiation produced by a fire. Flam detector is a radiant
energysensing fire detector that detects the radiant energy emitted by a flame.
Detectors work according to wavelengths to detect fires and explosions within
milliseconds. Most sensitive to detect fires, but also easily activated by non-fire
conditions (e.g. welding, sunlight etc.)
These detectors must be positioned with an unobstructed view of the protected area and
will not activate if line of site is blocked.

Flame detectors regions

Figure (2-13)


22

Comparison between Various Types of Flame Detectors
Optical
Detector
Applications Advantages Disadvantages
Single
infrared
(IR)
Hydrocarbon fires
Indoors
Moderate speed
Moderate sensitivity
Unaffected by solar radiation
Low cost
Subject to false alarms
(in the presence of
flickering IR sources)
Single
Ultraviolet
(UV)
Hydrocarbon fires
Ammonia and other
hydrogen-based fuel fires
Metal Fires
Indoors
High speed
Unaffected by hot objects
Low cost
Subject to false alarms
from UV sources (arc
welding, electrical sparks,
halogen lamps)
Blinded by thick smoke,
vapors, grease and oil
deposits on the detectors
window
Dual Band
(UV/IR)
Hydrocarbon fires
Ammonia and other
hydrogen-based fuel
fires
Metal Fires
Indoors and outdoors
Moderate speed
Low false alarm rate
Affected by specific
UV/IR ratio
Blinded by thick smoke,
vapors, grease and oil
deposits on the detectors
window
Triple IR
(IR3)
Hydrocarbon fires
Moderate speed
Highest sensitivity
High immunity to false alarms
Longer detection range
Affected by IR sources
only at short range in
certain rare fire scenarios
CCTV
(IR3+Video)
Hydrocarbon fires
Provides record of the protected area
before, during and after fire scenario
Moderate speed
Highest sensitivity
High immunity to false alarms
Longer detection range
Affected by IR sources
only at short range in
certain rare fire scenarios.

Table (2-3)


23

2.7.2.2 Manual Call Point
Types of fire boxes:
1. Fire alarm pull station as shown in figure (2-14)
2. Manual call point (break glass) as shown in figure (2.15)

Figure (2-14) Figure (2-15)
2.7.3 Outputs (notifications).
Types of notification devices
a) Audible
1. Bells
2. Horns
3. Sounder
4. Chimes
5. Speakers
They are designed to produce very loud and hard sound when activated.
They are available in many shapes and sizes as shown in figure (2-16).

Figure (2-16)

24

b) Visual
1. Strobes
2. Flasher
Visual signaling appliances are used in high noise environments or in areas where audible
devices may not be desirable.
Shapes of visual devices shown in figure (2-17)

Figure (2-17)

2.7.4 Isolators
Isolator Module should be spaced between groups of sensors in loop to protect the rest of
the loop. Use to isolate short circuit problems within a section of a loop so that other
sections can continue to operate normally.
2.7.5 Control Modules.
Its a device connected to the addressable control panel but it allowing an extension to
another conventional circuit. Its also connected with the fire control power supply
(FCPS).


25

2.8 Conclusion.
In this chapter we have discussed fire alarm system and its components including
detection devices, notification devices and other components.
We also discussed types, installation and application of detectors
Alarm systems
1. Conventional
2. Addressable
System Components
1. Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP)
2. Detectors (smoke, heat and flame)
3. Manual Call Point (MCP)
4. Control Modules
5. Isolators
6. Notification devices (audible and visible)
7. Power supply

Chapter Three Firefighting

26

3.1 Manual Fire Fighting
3.1.1 Fire Extinguishers
1. Water extinguishers.
2. Foam extinguishers.
3. Dry powder extinguishers.
4. Carbon dioxide extinguishers.
5. Halon extinguishers.

Figure (3-1)

1. Water extinguisher
Water Extinguishers are suitable for class A fires caused by the
combustion of solid materials, mainly of organic origin, such as: wood,
paper, straw, textiles, coal etc. The spray version must pass electrical
conductivity tests although should not be used on electrical hazards.
Figure (3.2)
Class A
Safe for wood, paper, textiles
Not safe for flammable liquid fires, live electrical
equipment or flammable metal fires

Figure (3-2)

27

Most are large silver fire extinguishers that stand about 2 feet tall and weigh about 25
pounds when full. Filled with ordinary tap water and pressurized air, they are essentially
large squirt guns.
Water extinguishes fire by taking away the heat element of the Fire Tetrahedron.

2. Foam extinguisher
Foam Extinguishers are ideal where both A & B class fire risks exist.
AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) is particularly suited to class B fires
caused by the combustion of materials that liquefy such as petrol, oils,
fats, paints, tar etc. Figure (3.3)
Class A
Class B
Flammable liquids

Not safe for live electrical equipment or flammable metal
fires
Figure (3-3)
Type of Foam extinguisher
1. Protein foam (P)
2. Fluoroprotein foam (FP)
3. Synthetic foams
4. Film forming fluoroprotein (FFFP)
5. Alcohol-resistant film forming fluoroprotein (AR-FFFP).
6. Chemical foam


28

3. Dry Powder Extinguishers
Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers are suitable for mixed fire risk
environments and are especially suited for flammable liquids and fires
involving flammable gases such as methane, propane, hydrogen, natural
gas etc. This range offers a combination of fire performance and ease of
service. Figure (3-4)
Class A

Class B
Flammable liquids

Class C
Gaseous fires, live electrical equipment
Figure (3-4)
The effect of the powder is to "knock down" the flames and it is best for fires involving
flammable liquids or gases. Standard powders work well only on burning liquids;
however the multi-purpose type is more effective on other types of fire, especially on
burning solids.
4. Carbon Dioxide CO2 Extinguishers
Carbon Dioxide CO2 Extinguishers are suitable for Class B risks
involving flammable liquids and for electrical hazards. CO2 is harmless to
electrical equipment and is ideal for modern offices, electronic risks, and
fires caused by the combustion of liquids such as: oils, fats, solvents etc.
The 5 kg size has a 70 B fire rating. Figure (3-5)
Class B
Safe for Flammable liquids, live electrical equipment

Not recommended for wood, paper, textiles. Not to be used
within confined spaces

Figure (3-5)

29

Carbon dioxide is a non-flammable gas that takes away the oxygen element of the fire
tetrahedron. Without oxygen, there is no fire.
5. Halon Extinguishers
The bromochlorodifluoromethane (Halon 1211) fire extinguisher has an
agent that is similar to carbon dioxide in that it is suitable for cold weather
installation and leaves no residue. Some larger models of Halon 1211 fire
extinguishers are listed for use on Class A as well as Class B and Class C
fires.
Compared to carbon dioxide on a weight-of-agent basis, (Halon 1211) is at
least twice as effective. When discharged, the agent is in the combined
form of a gas/mist with about twice the range of carbon dioxide. To some
extent, windy conditions or strong air currents could make extinguishment
difficult by causing the rapid dispersal of the agent.
Figure (3-6)
Class B
Flammable liquids

Class C
Gaseous fires, live electrical equipment

3.1.2. Fire Hoses
1. Types of Fire Hoses
There are several types of hose designed specifically for the fire service. Those designed
to operate under positive pressure are called discharge hoses. They include attack hose,
supply hose, relay hose, forestry hose, and booster hose. Those designed to operate under
negative pressure are called suction hoses.
a) Attack Hoses
Attack hose shown in figure (3-7) are a fabric-
covered, flexible hose used to bring water from
the fire pumper to the nozzle. This hose ranges in
nominal inside Diameter from 1.5 in (38 mm) to
Figure (3-7)

30

3.0 in (76 mm) and is designed to operate at pressures up to about 400 psi (2,760 kPa).
The standard length is 50 ft (15.3 m).
b) Supply and Relay Hoses
Supply and relay hoses shown in figure (3-8) are large-
diameter, fabric-covered, flexible hoses used to bring water
from a distant hydrant to the fire pumper or to relay water
from one pumper to another over a long distance.
These hoses range in nominal inside diameter from 3.5 in
(89 mm) to 5.0 in (127 mm). They are designed to operate at
Figure (3-8)
Pressures up to about 300 psi (2,070 kPa) for the smaller diameters and up to 200 psi
(1,380 kPa) for the larger diameters. The standard length is 100 ft (30.6 m).
c) Forestry Hoses
Forestry hoses shown in figure (3-9) a fabric-covered,
flexible hose used to fight fires in grass, brush, and trees
where a lightweight hose is needed in order to maneuver it
over steep or rough terrain.
Figure (3-9)
Forestry hose comes in 1.0 in (25 mm) and 1.5 in (38 mm) nominal inside diameters and
is designed to operate at pressures up to about 450 psi (3,105 kPa). The standard length is
100 ft (30.6 m).
d) Booster Hoses
Booster hoses shown in figure (3-10) are a rubber-covered,
thick-walled, flexible hose used to fight small fires. It retains
its round cross-section when it is not under pressure and is
usually carried on a reel on the fire pumper, rather than being
stored flat.
Figure (3-10)

31

Booster hose comes in 0.75 in (19 mm) and 1.0 in (25 mm) nominal inside diameters and
is designed to operate at pressures up to 800 psi (5,520 kPa). The standard length is 100 ft
(30.6 m).
e) Suction Hoses
Sometimes called hard suction, is usually a rubber-covered,
semi-rigid hose with internal metal reinforcements. It is used
to suck water out of unpressurized sources, such as ponds or
rivers, by means of a vacuum. Figure (3-11)
Suction hose ranges in nominal inside diameter from 2.5 in
(64 mm) to 6.0 in (152 mm). The standard length is 10 ft
(3.1 m).
Figure (3-11)
2. Hose Reinforcement
Shall be made from one of the following materials, and the material shall be approved:

1- Natural fiber
2- Synthetic fiber
3- Combination of natural and synthetic fiber
3. Linings and Covers
All fire hose shall be lined. Liners and covers, if provided, shall be made from one of the
following materials, and the material shall be approved:
1- Rubber compound
2- Thermoplastic material
3- Blends of rubber compounds and thermoplastic material
4- Natural rubber-latex-coated fabricants and Covers
4. Hose Quality Requirements
The material selected for the construction of booster hose or forestry fire hose shall be
capable of being manufactured into a hose that has all of the following qualities:

32

1. Abrasion resistance and can pass the Abrasion Test in UL 19, Lined Fire Hose
and Hose Assemblies; the Abrasion Test defined in FM Class Number 2111,
Factory Mutual Approval Standard for Fire Hose; or equivalent
2. Heat resistance and can pass the Heat Resistance Test defined in UL 219,
Lined Fire Hose for Interior Standpipes
3. Resistance to degradation from moisture when soaked in water for 48 hours
4. Withstands 10,000 cycles of repeated bending

5. Fire Hose Reel
Hose reel shown in figure (3-12) are located to
provide a reasonably accessible and controlled
supply of water to combat a potential fire risk. The
length of a fully extended fire hose is 36 meters
with a diameter of 19mm (outside diameter). These
appliances are designed to deliver, as a minimum,
0.33L of water per second.

Figure (3-12)
6. Occupancy required self-protection by using hose reel:
1. Gathering places.
2. Laboratories and educational occupancy.
3. Health care occupancy.
4. Administrative buildings, which increases the number of decks one floor or a
floor area exceeding 800 m2.
5. Occupancy commercial area of more than 280 m2.
6. Storage occupancy.


33

7. Industrial occupancy.
8. Residential buildings over six floors

7. Hose Reel System Components
1. The water source.
2. A network of pipes and accessories.
3. Isolation valve.
4. Reel.
5. Rubber hose.
6. Sprinkler thrower.
8. Hose Reel Design Criteria
1. Calculated the amount of source water to be sufficient to provide a two hose for a
minimum period of at least 30 minutes, and the flow rate of 60 liters / min,
provided that any amount not less than 1800 liter case.
Amount of water = flow rate x time required for fighting.
Amount of water = flow rate x 30 minutes = 60 * 30 = 1800 L = 1.8 m
3
.
2. Flow is calculated to give 60 liters / minute pressure as follows:
a) No more than 7 bar at the entrance to hose.
b) Not less than 3 bar at the 4.8 mm Sprinkler thrower vent diameter.
c) At least 1.5 bar at the 6.35 mm Sprinkler thrower vent diameter.
3. Take into account the distribution hoses that reach all parts of the building,
4. The hose Should be -inch diameter hose and a length of 30 meters or 1 inch and
a length of 25 meters.
5. The maximum area covered by the rubber hose is equal to 800 square meters.
6. Must be sprinkler orifice diameter ejector 4.8 mm or 6.35 mm.
7. Must be the diameters of pipes in accordance with the design
calculations and should not be less feeder's main pipe for more than
a hose and one 50 mm.
8. Device must have a pump to network hoses component of an integrated package
consisting of pumps and control panel in accordance with the specifications of fire

34

pumps and works automatically when the pressure drops a certain limit and shut
down automatically, as well as means of manual operation and suspension.
9. Allowed to use one pump in the nutritional status of two hose at the most.
9. Hose Reel Installation
1. Not least the high reel station for 1.0 m and not more than 1.3 m from the surface
of floor tiles.
2. Taken into account in the composition of its proximity to the vent hoses, ladders,
and protected places, and if this is not possible, Installed in the corridors.
3. Shall not conflict intersections or furnishings in the building with the use of hoses,
and if this is not possible because of nature of the need to use the building.
Must increase the number of hoses to cover all the building area to be protected.
4. Install each hose valve isolation 25 mm diameter on the pipe with a hose before
connecting it directly with the installation of a link gear for the purpose
of facilitating the removal and installation to maintenance.
5. Hoses must be fitted within the walls and in cases where this cannot
be mounted on the architectural face of the walls inside the boxes with the
door of a metal frame and glass face of the armed. Open slot full 180 degrees so it
is not an impediment to the corridors and for reasons may be an
architectural section of the cover sheets of iron.
6. You must install the hose reels to spin counter-clockwise direction with
a share of the direction of rotation.
7. How demonstrate a sign on the face of the fund writes a fire sign and other
guidance on the hose reel, or instructions inside the box describes the method of
operation, such as opening the valve, and the withdrawal of the hose, and open the
spray ejector ...Etc.
8. Preferably pipelines network phenomenon, not buried in concrete or under the
tiles, and if this is not possible for reasons architecture, preferably in private so
that sewage can be accessed for maintenance purposes.
9. Must attach to tank pumps (water / air) for the pumps that feed more than 3 hoses.
10. When feeding rubber hoses of high pressure water source, you must install
suitable pressure relief valves.


35

3.2 Automatic Sprinkler System
Sprinklers are especially crucial for life safety in high-rise building. Sprinklers are more
effective in preventing the spread of upper-story fires compared with manual fire
suppression operation. Sprinkler systems give people on floors above the fire a better
chance of survival.
Egyptian fire code, and all fire codes, requires automatic Sprinkler systems installed in all
high-rise building. A high-rise building is a building whose height exceeds:
a) 34 m for group C-1 building occupancy
b) 22 m for group A, C-2, D, E ,and F
c) 16 m for group B

Table (3-1)

Group Section Examples of type of occupancy
1 Theatres Cinemas Televisions and broadcast auditoriums
2 Schools Colleges Libraries Worship places Restaurants Gymnasiums Amusement places
3 Covered sports halls Swimming pools with spectators
4 Amusement places in the open air Soccer Stadiums Uncovered spectators places
5 Orphanage Elder people hostels Hospitals Health centers
1 Prisons Police stations Crisis and Psychology hospitals
2 Orphanage Elder people hostels Hospitals Health centers
1 Private apartment buildings Villas
2 Hotels Motels Students housings Youth hostels
D
Office
Buildings
Banks Clinics Professional offices Central telephone stations - Dry clean & Washing place
E
Trade
Occupancies
Shops Plazas Shopping centers Exhibition Halls
1
Flammable liquid and gas storage places Hazardous Material storage rooms
Grain mills Petrochemical industries Rubber industries- Paint shops
2 Print houses Workshops Electric transformation stations Car service stations
3 Power stations Parking Area Storage Places Workshops
A
People
assembly
B
Nursing &
Punishment
Institutions
C
Apartment
Building
F
Industrial &
Storage
Occupancies

36

3.2.1. Types of water sprinkler system
1. Wet Sprinkler System.
2. Dry Sprinkler System.
3. Pre-Action Sprinkler System.
4. Deluge Sprinkler System.
1. Wet Sprinkler System
The sprinklers in these systems are attached to pipes containing pressurized water at all
times. Individual sprinklers in the vicinity of a fire are set off by heat, allowing water to
flow through them immediately.
Wet-pipe systems as shown in figure (3-13) are used wherever temperatures are high
enough to prevent freezing. When water freezes it expands. Burst pipes may render a
system inoperable and can cause significant water damage.
Sometimes, an anti-freeze solution is added to certain sections in a wet-pipe system to
prevent freezing.

Figure (3-13)

37

Typical dry pipe sprinkler system

Figure (3-14a)
Wet pipe valve

Figure (3-14b)

38

Operation Sequence of The System

Sprinkler head operation sequence

Figure (3-15)

39


40


41


42

2. Dry Sprinkler System
In a dry-pipe system shown in figure (3-16), sprinklers are attached to pipes that contain
pressurized air. When heat activates the sprinklers, the air pressure is reduced, allowing
the dry-pipe valve to open (or trip) and water to flow to the sprinklers.
Dry-pipe systems are usually used only when temperatures are not high enough to
prevent freezing (Below 40 deg. F).
Since dry systems have a slower response time, they should be converted to wet-pipe
systems as soon as sufficient heat becomes available. In situations where only a few
sections lack heat, it is recommended to use a combination of dry and wet-pipe systems.

Figure (3-16)

Typical dry pipe sprinkler system

43

Figure (3-17)
Dry pipe valve

Figure (3-18)

44

3. Pre-Action Sprinkler System
These systems shown in figure (3-19) contain
an additional fire-detection device that will
recognize a fire before the sprinklers are
activated. The sprinklers are attached to a pipe
containing air that may or may not be
pressurized.
When the detection device senses a fire, it opens
the main valve, allowing water to flow through
the pipes before the sprinklers are set off. When
the heat activates the sprinklers, water flows
through immediately, as in a wet-pipe system.
Pre-action systems are usually employed in
areas that are at risk for serious water damage
due to damaged sprinkles and/or piping.
Figure (3-19)
They operate faster than dry systems, but tend to be significantly more expensive.

45

Figure (3-20)


46

4. Deluge Sprinkler System
In this system shown in figure (3-
21), sprinklers are open at all times.
They are connected to a dry pipe that
is connected to a main water supply.
A fire detection device controls the
main valve. When it is activated, the
valve opens, allowing large amounts
of water to flow through all of the
sprinklers.
The purpose of a deluge system is to
quickly wet down an entire hazard
area to prevent a fire from spreading.
They are usually used in facilities
that contain hazardous materials
such as: flammable liquids,
chemicals, and explosives.

Figure (3-21)
Other risks would include such situations as tanker
loading bays, flammable gas tanks, oil storage
reservoirs, oil lines, power generation plants etc.
Rooms with high ceilings sometimes use deluge
systems, as it is difficult to direct water over the
burning area from such a distance.

Figure (3-22)

47


3.2.2. Sprinkler head
1. Sprinkler System Design
The available flow, pressure, and duration of the water supply are taken into account
when determining the size of the piping network in a sprinkler system. The type and size
of the occupancy being protected, as well as the nature of the contents of the building are
also an important part of the design of a sprinkler system.
2. Sprinkler Discharge Pattern
Standard sprinkler heads are manufactured with three connection sizes 10mm, 15mm and
20mm. These discharge water on to the fire at 57, 80 and 115 liters/minute respectively at
a pressure of 1 bar. Compare this figure with discharge rates from a fire hose which can
exceed 1000 liters/minute at pressures of up to 7 bars.

48

3. Heat Responsive Element
In normal conditions, the heat responsive element acts to hold the water way of a
sprinkler head closed by applying pressure to a special sealing mechanism. When the
temperature around the head rises as a result of fire and it reaches the design operating
temperature of the sprinkler, the heat responsive element breaks apart, allowing water
pressure within the sprinkler piping to overcome the sealing mechanism and spray water
on the fire.
The heat responsive element is normally a liquid filled glass bulb. Sprinkler heads are
also manufactured with metal fusible links in place of glass bulbs. This type of sprinkler
head is predominantly used for example in food production establishments so that in the
event of activation the component parts can be located and removed.


49

4. Range of Sprinkler Head Operating Temperature Rating

Table (3-2)
5. Types of Sprinkler Heads
a) Conventional Sprinklers
These sprinkler head shown in figure (3-23) can be mounted in either the upright or the
pendent position, and the deflector is designed to spray a proportion of the water
discharge on to the surface of the ceilings.
b) Upright and Pendent Spray Sprinklers
Spray sprinklers shown in figure (3-24) are used for applications where all the water
needs to be discharged downwards.


50

c) Sidewall Sprinklers
These sprinkler heads shown in figure (3-25) are primarily used to keep ceilings clear of
pipe work for aesthetic reasons or to avoid having to disturb existing ceilings when
installing pipe work.
Each sprinkler protects up to 17m in Light Hazard occupancies and 9m in Ordinary
Hazard occupancies.

Figure (3-23) Figure (3-24) Figure (3-25)

d) Horizontal Sidewall Sprinklers with Extended Coverage
These quick response sprinklers shown in figure (3-26) are commonly used for the
protection of hotel bedrooms to overcome the need for sprinklers and exposed pipe work
in the center of the room.
They are specifically designed to give an extended coverage of water of up to 21m and
are designed to inhibit fire growth by extensive wall wetting.
e) ESFR Sprinklers
Early suppression fast response (ESFR) sprinkler systems are designed to protect
warehouse storage risks from fire, particularly in cases where roof only sprinklers shown
in figure (3-27) are preferred to the more usual in-rack sprinkler protection.


51

f) Concealed Sprinklers
These are sprinklers which are located flush with the ceiling; all that is visible is a small
diameter metal disc concealing the sprinkler head behind. This disc is soldered to a
support bracket which when heated. See figure (3-28)
under a fire condition melts allowing the disc to fall away exposing the actual sprinkler
head which will activate following an increase in the local temperature to its operation
point.

Figure (3-26) Figure (3-27)

Figure (3-28)


52

6. Response Time Index (RTI)
The speed of response depends upon a number of factors including the sensitivity of the
sprinklers thermal element (bulb or link), plus the velocity and direction of flow of the
hot gases. The speed of response is quantified by the term Response Time Index (RTI).

Where :
V = air velocity used in the test
M = mass of the heat responsive element
C = specific heat of the heat responsive element
H = convective heat transfer coefficient
A = surface area of heat responsive element

Very old sprinkler heads could have a RTI between 160 and 380 but modern sprinkler
heads would not have a RTI in excess of 160 and quick response heads have a RTI of 50
or less
3.2.3. Rising mains system
A rising main is a system of pipe work and valves, often found in high-rise buildings,
which allows firefighting water to be easily delivered to all floors. It consists of a vertical
pipe with an inlet at ground level on an outside face of the building and outlets (known as
landing valves) fitted in cabinets at each floor level, allowing fire and rescue service
personnel to pressurize the main from their appliances.
Rising mains in buildings can be either filled with water (Wet Riser) or left dry (Dry
Riser). Where mains are supplied from rooftop tanks and pumps in very tall buildings, the
mains are referred to as Falling Mains or sometimes Down comers.


53

Comparison between Dry and Wet Riser
Approved Document B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations (England & Wales)
requires that any building more than 18m high, measured from the fire brigade access
level to the top floor, or which has floors more than 10m below ground must be provided
with firefighting shafts and a fire fighting rising main.
If the building has a floor level higher than 18m but less than 50m or has floors more than
10m below ground, the fire main can be either a Dry or a Wet riser. When a building is
more than 50m high the rising main has to be a Wet riser.
1. Dry Rising Mains
The pipes in dry risers are empty and are only filled with water by fire fighters when they
arrive. Fire fighters will connect the pump outlet in one of their appliances to the dry riser
inlet. Figure (3-29)
Water is then drawn from the nearest public fire hydrant (fed by the water suppliers
service main2) and this is pressurized by the fire pump to provide water at the correct
flow and pressure for firefighting operations at the relevant floor level.

Figure (3-29)

54

2. Wet Rising Mains
The pipes in wet risers shown in figure
(3-31) are full of water at all times and
have pumps that deliver the water to the
outlets, these pumps drawing water from
storage tanks.
The pumps operate when the pressure in
the rising mains drops when a landing
valve is opened
They do not depend on the fire brigade
appliance or water from the local mains.

Figure (3-31)
Fire Service Inlets

Figure (3-32)


55

Landing Valves

Figure (3-33)

3.3 conclusions
Weve discussed in this chapter firefighting systems either Manual System using fire
extinguishers and fire hoses or Automatic System using water sprinkler system.
In high hazard and large facilities its not recommended to protect it by using
manual system, so that automatic system is more economic and efficient.

Chapter five Case Study

63

5.1 Introduction
In chapters one, two, three and four we had discussed the basic principles of alarm,
firefighting and ventilation systems.
In this chapter we are going to apply these principles on a case study of a food industries
factory.
Factory description
This factory is surrounded by streets from its north, south and east directions and the west
direction wall is common with a neighbor as shown in figure (5-1)

Figure (5-1)
This factory consists of manufacturing area, stores, workshops area and a service
building.
The manufacturing area and stores are 8100
2
and 10 m high, the service building is
250
2
and 3 m high, and the workshops area is 400
2
and 5 m high.


64

5.2 Alarm system design
5.2.1 Basics of design
All areas are fully covered by detectors except the manufacturing area that protected by
manual call point and a manual firefighting system because it is occupied 24 hours.
All building will be considered as one zone connected to the fire alarm panel.
Two loops will be used, one for detectors and manual call point and the other for audible
and visible devices.
Isolator Module should be spaced after 15 devices in loop to protect the rest of the loop.
Isolator is important in the circuit so that other sections can continue to operate normally
if there was a problem with a certain section.

5.2.2 Positioning of smoke and combined detectors
All smoke detectors have similar spacing requirements; heat detectors also have similar
spacing requirements but different from smoke detectors.
According to NFPA 2002 the spacing between detectors are discussed as follow.

(a) Smoke detector
For horizontal ceiling, the spacing between detectors should not exceed 9m and the
horizontal space between any point in the protected area and the nearest detector should
not exceed 7.5 m when placed at 3m high.
In our case, detectors are positioned at 10m high then a safety value is used to lower the
previous spacing as shown in table (2-1)
The new spacing will be 3m max between detectors and 2.5m max from the wall. But; for
more practical design, spacing between detectors will be 6m and the space between
detector and the wall will be 3m.

(b) combined smoke and heat detector
For horizontal ceiling, the spacing between detectors should not exceed 7m and the
horizontal space between any point in the protected area and the nearest detector should
not exceed 5.3m when placed at 3m high.
In our case, spacing will be at 2.3m and space from the nearest point will be 1.8m.
For more practical design, spacing will be 5m and the space from the wall will be 3m.


65

5.2.3 Positioning of manual call point and notification devices
(a) Manual Call Point
The travelling distance to the nearest manual call point should not exceed 30m, and it
should be placed from the ground between 1.1m to 1.4m.

(b) Notification devices
According to NFPA 2002; for factories where the sound level is higher than 90db, a
combined visible and audible notification device should be used.

5.2.4 Fire alarm control panel.
Well use addressable system because the factory is very large and we use a lot of
detectors and modules.
So that, well use NOTIFIER NFS2-3030, as shown in figure (5.2)

Figure (5-2)


66

Panel features.
One to ten isolated intelligent Signaling Line Circuits (SLC)

Up to 159 detectors and 159 modules per SLC, 318 devices per loop and 3180
devices per FACP. Detectors can be any mix of ionization, photoelectric, heat or
multi-sensor detectors; and modules can be addressable pull stations, normally
open contact devices, notification, or relay modules.

Well use 2 loops in the factory, one for detectors and manual call point and
isolators. While the other will be used for notification devices and control
modules.

5.2.6 Design data
Total area needed to be covered by detectors, manual call point and notifications devices
= 8750
2

Smoke detectors will be placed at the first store, service building and the workshops area;
combined smoke and heat detectors will be placed at the second stores.
Manual Call Point and Notification devices will be placed at the whole protected area.
Areas are shown in figure (5-2)
Here are the reasons for this configuration
Store 1 (Paper store)
Paper produce smoke when burned, so well use smoke detectors (photoelectric).
Store 2 (Potato store)
Potato also produce smoke when burned but this store is open most of the day and
subjected to dust and other sources of smoke, so well use a more sensitive detector
(combined smoke and heat detector).
Manufacturing area
This area is occupied with persons all the day so we dont need to use detectors at this
area and well use manual call point.
Service building
It contains papers, woods and electronic equipments, and when this elements burned it
produce smoke and there is no sources of dust so we will use smoke detectors
(photoelectric).
Workshops area
Electrical equipment produces smoke when burned, so well use smoke detectors as it
doesnt subjected to smoke or dust source.

67

Detectors, manual call point (MCP), isolators, notifications and control
modules.
Area Smoke detector Combined
detector
Manual call
point
Notification
devices
Manufacturing area X X 7 7
Store 1 38 X 1 1
Store 2 X 44 2 2
Service building 13 X 7 7
Workshops area 10 X 3 3
TOTAL 61 44 20 20

Table (5-1)
Well use 61 Smoke Detectors, 44 Combined Detectors, 20 Manual Call point (MCP), 20
Notification devices and 7 Isolators.

Chapter Five Case Study

68

5.3 Manuel Firefighting
5.3.1 Classification of Hazards according to NFPA 10
1. Light (Low) Hazard
Light hazard occupancies are locations where the total amount of Class A
(combustible materials) including furnishings, decorations, and contents is of minor
quantity.
This can include some buildings or rooms occupied as offices, classrooms, churches,
assembly halls, guest room areas of hotels/motels and so forth. This classification
anticipates that the majorities of content items are either noncombustible or so
arranged that a fire is not likely to spread rapidly.
Small amounts of Class B (flammables) used for duplicating machines, art
departments, and so forth, are included, provided that they are kept in closed
containers and safely stored.
2. Ordinary (Moderate) Hazard
Ordinary hazard occupancies are locations where the total amount of Class A
(combustibles) and Class B (flammables) are present in greater amounts than expected
under light/low hazard occupancies.
These occupancies could consist of dining areas, mercantile shops and allied storage,
light manufacturing, research operations, auto showrooms, parking garages and
workshop or support service areas of light/low hazard occupancies.
3. Extra (High) Hazard.
Extra hazard occupancies are locations where the total amount of Class A
(combustibles) and Class B (flammables) that present in storage, production or as
finished product is over than the expected amount of ordinary hazard occupancies.
These occupancies could consist of woodworking, vehicle repair, aircraft & boat
servicing, cooking areas, individual product display showrooms, product convention
center displays and storage or manufacturing processes such as painting, dipping and
coating including flammable liquid handling.
Also included is warehousing of or in-process storage of other than Class I and Class
II commodities.


69

5.3.2 Extinguisher Rating according to NFPA 10
1. Class A & Class B Rating


70

2. Class A Rating Equivalencies

Table (5-4)

3. Class B Rating Equivalencies

Table (5-5)


71

4. The Area of Maximum Travel Distance

Area of square = 1806
=168
5. Extinguisher For ordinary hazards places

Extinguisher type Dry chemical
Rating 10-B
Weight 2o lb = 9 kg
Max Travel Distance 30 feet = 9.15 meter

6. Extinguisher For light hazards places
Extinguisher type Dry chemical
Rating 5-B
Weight 6.5 Lb = 3 Kg
Max Travel Distance 30 Feet = 9.15 Meter


72

5.3.3 Fire extinguisher selection and distribution for a factory
Place Hazard
Paper Store Ordinary Hazard
Potato Store Ordinary Hazard
Work Shop Ordinary Hazard
Factory Ordinary Hazard
Second Paper Store Ordinary Hazard
Reception Light Hazard
Change Clothes Room Light Hazard

1. Paper store
Type of hazard Ordinary hazard
Type of fuel Class a
Extinguisher type Dry chemical 10-b
area 1243 meter square
Number of fire extinguishers needed 1243/168=8 extinguisher

We need 3 more extinguishers to cover the entire area
Total number of extinguishers for paper store = 11
2. Potato store

We need 3 more extinguishers to cover the entire area
Total number of extinguishers for potato store = 11


73

3. Work shop
Type of fuel Class b

4. Factory

5. Factory loading platform

Total number needed for factory and its paper store=34+4=38 extinguisher
To cover all the area we need 2 more extinguishers
Total = 40 extinguisher


74

6. Change clothes room and the reception
area Small area
Number of fire extinguishers needed One for each

7. Total number of fire extinguishers needed
64 dry chemical fire extinguisher 10-b rating and 9 kg weight
2 dry chemical fire extinguisher 5-b rating and 3 kg weight

Chapter Five
Case Study

75

5.4 Automatic Firefighting
5.4.1 Automatic Sprinkler System Hydraulic Calculation
1. Project Data
Sprinkler System Type: Wet Pipe Sprinkler System
Building Type: Store
Storage Type: Paper (Group 3 According To NFPA 13)
Description Of Hazard: ordinary hazard (1)
From the following table, we determine the maximum protection area and
maximum spacing between sprinklers

Table (5-6)
Maximum Protection Area Per Sprinkler:

Maximum Spacing Between Sprinklers:
Area of store =

Minimum number of sprinkler should be used:
sprinkler

2. Sprinklers Distribution Configuration:
Spacing between sprinklers along the branch:
Width of store:
No of sprinklers along the branch:
sp.
Spacing between branches: 3.5m = 9.84 ft.
Length of store: 61.5 m
No. of sprinklers along length of store:
sp.
No. of sprinklers used according to this distribution = 120 sp.
Actual protection area per sprinkler =

Chapter Five
Case Study

76

Figure (5-3)

3. Area of sprinkler operation

Operation area for ordinary is 1500
.
Enter the figure by operation area =1500
and Ordinary (1) hazard

Density of the system =

No of sprinkler active in operation area =

Chapter Five
Case Study

77

4. Sizing of pipes
We determine the size of system pipes according to next schedule:

Table (5-7)
5. Most remote hydraulic calculation
a) Equations used in calculations
1. Friction Loss Formula
Pipe friction losses shall be determined on the basis of the Hazen-Williams formula,
as follows:

Where:
p = frictional resistance in psi per foot of pipe
Q = flow in gpm
C = friction loss coefficient
d = actual internal diameter of pipe in inches
Chapter Five
Case Study

78

Table (5-8)
We use black steel, so C = 120
2. Sprinkler hydraulic formula:

Where:
p = pressure at sprinkler in psi
Q = sprinklers flow in gpm
K= discharge coefficient

Table (5-9)
We use 1/2 standard sprinkler, so k= 5.6 gpm/ (psi) ^.5
Chapter Five
Case Study

79

3. Equivalent Pipe Lengths of Valves and Fittings.
Table (5-10) shall be used to determine the equivalent length of pipe for fittings and
devices unless manufacturer's test data indicate that other factors are appropriate.

Table (5-10)

Chapter Five
Case Study

80

b) Calculations

We start from the most remote hydraulic sprinkler sprinkler no. 1
= (
9.16 psi > 7 psi ok

The residual pressure at most remote hydraulic sprinkler must be more than 7 psi

From sprinkler 1 to point 2:

Equivalent length for fittings and pipes:
There are 1feet pipe, elbow 90` 1, and pipe with 3 m length
< 7 psi ok
)

Chapter Five
Case Study

81

From point 2 to point 3:
< 7 psi ok
)

From point 3 to point 4:
< 7 psi ok
)

From point 4 to point A:
< 7 psi ok

Chapter Five
Case Study

82

Junction A:

By symmetric the residual pressure at point 7 is the same at point 3 (p3=15.12 psi), so
that we can resume calculation of pressure losses from this point 7
From point 7 to point A:
< 7 psi ok
= 74.26 gpm.

Chapter Five
Case Study

83

I.e. the total flow rate at point A
= 74.26+81.34 =155.6 gpm

Branch #2:
Losses from point A to point B:
< 7 psi ok

Chapter Five
Case Study

84

= 166.12 gpm
I.e. the total active sprinklers flow rate is = 166.12+155.6=321.7=322 gpm
Losses from point B to Riser:

Pipes and fittings from B to riser:
There are 3.5m of 2.5 pipe,10.5m of 3,15.75m of 4,9.25m of 6
Zone control valves:
1- Gate valve 6
2- Check valve 6
Cross 6

= 3.5*3.28*0.323 + 10.5*3.28*0.133 +15.75*3.28*0.032 +
(3+32+30+9.25*3.28)*0.004=10.323 psi

Losses from Point Riser to Pump:
Therere:
19m of 6 pipe
2 elbow 6

= (19*3.28+2*14)*.004=0.361 psi

= (11/10)*14.7=16.17 psi

Chapter Five
Case Study

85

5.4.2 Hose reel residual pressure calculation
11
015
003
0005
a) There are 10.75 m of pipe 1.5,6.5m of pipe 2, 3.5 m of pipe 3,15.75m of pipe
4,9.25 m of pipe 6
b) 1 elbow 2
c) 1Cross 3
d) 1 t 6
e) 1 gate valve 6
f) 1 check valve 6

Psi

= (19*3.28+2*14)*.004=0.361 psi

= (11/10)*14.7=16.17 psi
Hose real residual pressure 4.5 bar
= 7 bar
We add to pump flow rate 100 gpm for hose real
Total pump flow rate = 322+100=422 gpm =95713.5

The pump pressure is the maximum pressure when we use the hose real
Pump selection:
Pressure= 7 bar
Flow rate = 95713.5

Chapter Five
Case Study

86

5.4.3 Sprinkler System Hydraulic Calculation Using Elite Software
a) Project data

b) System data
1) Sprinkler System Type: Wet Pipe Sprinkler System
2) Description Of Hazard: ordinary hazard (1)
3) operation area =1500

4) Maximum Protection Area Per Sprinkler: 130

5) Hose real stream allow gpm=100gpm
6) K factor= from 5.6to 5.8
7) Temperature=154 f
8) Pipe material schedule steel 40

Chapter Five
Case Study

87

c) Pipe data
1) Then from project we select Entre/edit pipe data
2) Put the pipes according to their numbers
3) Select pipe material
4) Select k factor for pipes with sprinkler
5) Select valves or fitting between pipes

Chapter Five
Case Study

88

d) Calculation
1. From project select calculation
2. Minimum pressure 7 psi
3. Minimum desired density =0.15 gpm

e) Pipe sizing/constraints
1) Water velocity=10 feet /sec
2) Maximum allowable friction loss for 100 feet of pipe = 32
3) Then we return to calculation and press calculate

Chapter Five
Case Study

89

f) Solution

Pump selection:
Pump pressure= 76 psi

Pump flow rate = 347 gpm

Chapter Five
Case Study

90

Chapter Five
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Chapter Five
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92

Chapter Five
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Chapter Five
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Chapter Five
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95

Chapter Five
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96

Chapter Five
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97

Chapter Five
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Chapter Five
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99

5.4.4 Pump installation

Figure (5-5)
Chapter Five
Case Study

100

5.4.5 Pump selection
1) Electric Driven Pump and Diesel Driven Pump
Pressure = 7 bar
Flow rate = 95.794

Factor of safety:

20% increasing in flow rate
10% increasing in pressure

So the demand flow rate and pressure is:

Pressure = 105 x 110% = 115.5 psi
Flow rate = 422 x 120% = 506 gpm

Figure (5-6)
2) Jokey pump:

Flow rate = 5 % of main pump rated flow rate = 5% x 506 = 25 gpm
Pressure = 105% of main pump rated pressure = 105% x 115 = 121 psi

Chapter six Conclusion

118

We have studied alarm, firefighting, and ventilation systems in such a way that enables us
to apply our study on practical case.
We also designed the alarm, firefighting, and ventilation systems for a food industries
factory.

References

- Egyptian code for fire alarm system (part 2).
- Egyptian code for installation of water sprinkler system (part 4).
- NFPA 10 standard for portable fire extinguisher 2002 edition.
- NFPA 13 standard for the installation of sprinkler system 2002
edition.
- NFPA 20 standard for the installation of pumps for fire
protection2003 edition.
- NFPA 72 National fire alarm code 2002edition.
- http://www.firesafe.org.uk/portable-fire-extinguisher-general/
- http://www.osha.gov/doc/outreachtraining/htmlfiles/extmare.html
- http://www.bavaria.com.eg
- http://www.pafsa.org.uk
- Fairbanks Morse, Pentair water.
- Wood's practical guide to fan engineering: Co-editors, W.C.
Osborne, C.G. Turner.
- Hammam industries and CO. selection software

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5. Extinguisher For ordinary hazards places

and Ordinary (1) hazard

9.16 psi > 7 psi ok

= 74.26+81.34 =155.6 gpm

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