SPRINKLER SYSTEM DESIGNER MANUAL
SPRINKLER SYSTEM DESIGNER PROFESSIONAL

The occupancy hazard classification is a critical factor when designing an automatic sprinkler system. Calculating Sprinkler Density Based on Demand The NFPA 13 Handbook has a supplement that covers the theory and procedures behind hydraulic calculations. Fire protection codes provide tables and typical design values, which come from decades of testing and detailed simulation of fire incidents. There are many factors that influence the intensity and extent of a fire, which include the materials stored in a building and their arrangement.

SPRINKLER SYSTEM DESIGNER MANUAL

Software calculations allow changes and recalculations in just a fraction of the time required with manual procedures. Modern fire protection systems are normally designed with computerized calculations, regardless of the layout used.

On the other hand, grid piping layouts require software to analyze and balance the water flow through all the possible paths.

Tree and loop piping layouts have a simpler procedure, and manual calculations are feasible.

There is more than one route leading to each sprinkler, which reduces friction.įire protection standards normally require the Hazen-Williams method to determine friction losses in a piping system, regardless of the layout used: This configuration uses two main lines that run parallel to each other, connected by smaller piping segments. However, the main pipe returns to the starting point, completing a loop at the source. This configuration also has a main pipe, from which all other pipes branch out. The branching pipes provide water for individual sprinklers and other fire protection elements. This configuration uses a main pipe that branches out into smaller pipes, similar to how a tree has branches that grow from its trunk. The piping layouts of most fire protection systems can be classified into three main types, based on how individual pipes are arranged: tree, loop, and grid. This must be considered in the hydraulic calculation procedure, and the pressure boost can be achieved with a fire pump or pressurized tank. When water is obtained from a static source like a lake or buried tank, additional pressure is required for effective fire protection.

Underground, above-ground and elevated water tanks are examples of closed sources.

Lakes, ponds and rivers are examples of open sources.

When this happens, the piping can be designed to draw water from other sources, which can be classified as open or closed: There may be cases in which the municipal water supply is insufficient for fire protection, or not available. This can be accomplished by measuring pressure and flow at a water hydrant, but this information may also be available publicly from the municipal water department.

How Much Water Is Required for Fire Protection?Ī water flow test is required before starting a hydraulic calculation. If you are developing commercial spaces for rent, reliable fire protection is also a valuable feature for potential tenants.

SPRINKLER SYSTEM DESIGNER PROFESSIONAL

Get a professional fire sprinkler design for your next building project.Īn adequate fire protection design safeguards your building and its occupants. What is the optimal layout of the piping system, and what friction losses are produced?.If a fire occurs, how much water is required to extinguish it?.The hydraulic calculation procedure deals with three very important aspects of a fire suppression system:

In particular, automatic sprinkler systems are subject to the NFPA 13 Standard in the US, and the equivalent international standard is EN 12845. Hydraulic calculations are very important when designing fire protection systems, since they ensure that the piping delivers enough water to extinguish any fire.

Sprinkler system designer