As we all know, the automatic water sprinkler system is one of the most commonly installed fire suppression systems.
Sprinkler heads are mounted on to the range pipes, which are connected to the branch pipe and then to the main riser. The defined piping system is known as the piping network, which is kept under constant predetermined pressure terminating at the sprinkler head where the pressurized water is held by the Quartzoid Bulb (Commonly known and appearing as a Glass Bulb).
When a fire breaks out and the ambient temperature increases to the predetermined operating temperature of the Quartzoid bulb, such as 57°C, 68°C or 79° C, as the case may be, the Quartzoid Bulb, installed on to the sprinkler head, shatters, thus allowing the pressurized water in the pipe line to flow out and sprayed in a definite pattern over the affected area to extinguish the fire.
It can clearly be understood from the abovementioned preamble that the following factors are very crucial for installation of Sprinkler heads;
1. Quartzoid bulb and the deflector of the Pendent type sprinkler head should be installed on to the ceiling/false ceiling in a manner that it is clear of all obstructions around and below it.
2. Quartzoid bulb and the deflector of the Side Wall type sprinkler head should be installed in a manner that it is clear of all obstructions around and below it.
3. Pattern of spray of water for the area covered by a sprinkler head is determined by the height at which the Sprinkler head is installed.
4. Therefore, distance between two sprinkler heads (Spacing) installed on one range pipe as well as the parallel range pipe/s, should be worked out based on the height of installation of the sprinkler head to ensure slight overlapping of water sprayed on all sides by each sprinkler head.
5. If the ceiling/false ceiling is of Waffle, Baffle or Cove type, the Quartzoid bulb should be installed in a manner that it is totally clear of any obstruction and the deflector plate of the sprinkler head is clearly below the waffle/Baffle /cove so as to allow clear flow of water.
It is observed that in many a building aesthetics take priority over safety. And Sprinkler heads are either hidden above the false ceiling/waffle/Baffle /cove or installed very close to beams/rafters to make them inconspicuous, apparently for better looks, thus rendering them ineffective.
While aesthetics of a building is important, safety of the occupants and the building is of prime importance and it takes priority over aesthetics and therefore, care should be taken by the Architect, Builder, Project Management consultant, Owner of the building or the representative of the owner and the Fire Protection system integrator/contractor to install the Sprinkler system in line with the laid down standards.
Sprinkler heads have to be installed at least 25mm projecting below the ceiling, as can be seen from the representative photographs appearing hereunder, considering its pattern and the flexible drop or rigid drops have also to be installed firmly in place.
• Addressable Fire Detection & Alarm System
• Automatic Sprinkler System
• Fire Hydrant System
• Public Address and Voice evacuation System
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