W et Pipe Systems

Wet pipe systems are the most common type of fire sprinkler systems. These
systems are filled with water from an automatic source, and when a sprinkler head
is exposed to enough heat, the heat-sensitive element will release and water will
be allowed to flow from that sprinkler. These systems often include an automatic
alarm check valve that will send a signal to the building’s alarm system when water
begins flowing through the piping.

Dry Pipe Systems

These systems are typically used in areas where the temperature could be low
enough to freeze water in the pipes, causing the system to become ineffective. In
these systems, the pipes are filled with air at a lower pressure than the water
supply. When an automatic sprinkler is exposed to enough heat, the valve opens
and allows that air to escape, causing the pressure in the pipes to drop and
allowing water to flow through the piping. Since water cannot escape from the
sprinkler head until the air is flushed from the systems, dr y pipe systems typically
are not as effective at suppressing fires in their early stages as are wet pipe
systems.

Deluge Systems

A deluge system differs from conventional sprinkler systems in that the sprinkler
heads are open and once smoke or fire is de tected, water is released through all
discharge devices in the system. These systems are typically found in areas that
require instant application of water over a large area to suppress the fire and
prevent its spread.

Pre-Action Systems

Pre-Action sprinkler systems are a special type of dry pipe system. The water is
separated from the pipes by an electric “pre -action” valve that is controlled by a
separate heat or smoke detection source. In order for water to be released from the
system, the detection system that controls the pre-action valve must detect smoke
or heat. Water will then be released into the piping of the system. Additionally,
individual sprinkler heads must release and then water will flow onto the fire. These
systems are most frequently us ed in water-sensitive environments, such as book
libraries, computer rooms and art museums, since two events must occur for water
to be released, adding extra protection from “false -alarms”.
There are different fire sprinkler systems used in different places to put off accidental fires. The system
installed depends on the efficiency, cost, how big the area to be installed is and the property being protected. It
is important that before you install a fire sprinkler system at home, you understand what your choices are and
what each of it can offer to you. For example, it is no good to install a fire sprinkler system meant for smaller
areas if you live in a sprawling property. Here is a look at the different types of fire sprinkler systems.

 Dry pipe system – This system does not use water. It uses dry air and it can cover a vast area. It is mostly
used in refrigerated coolers. Air is pumped in the pipes then out.
 Wet pipe system – This is more popular than the dry pipe system. This fire sprinkler system uses water. It
is more common in homes and small business premises.
 Deluge fire sprinkler system – This system uses open pipes. Deluge valves open up and allow water to
flow into all the sprinklers. It uses open pipes connected to the water system. Water flow is constant in all
the sprinklers.
 Foam water sprinkler system – This uses foam and water. It is commonly used in gas stations and places
dealing with highly flammable goods like airports. This system is more efficient than the wet system.
 Pre-action system – This is a combination of all the above-mentioned fire sprinkler systems. This system
is used to protect artifacts or things of great value. There are single interlock pre action systems that
operate like the dry pipe systems. The double interlock systems operate like the deluge systems.