Deluge and Pre-action Automatic Sprinkler Systems

The deluge automatic sprinkler system is a sprinkler system that has open sprinklers heads attached to a piping system that is connected to the public water system. Deluge systems are used for special hazards where rapid fire spread is a concern, as they provide a simultaneous application of water over the entire hazard, and are commonly seen as preventive measures to prevent egress of fire from an external source, such as high-rise windows, warehouse bay entries and openings in a fire-rated wall. Water is not present in the piping until the system operates. A closed control valve prevents water from flowing into the system. The piping system contains  air that may or may  not be  under pressure.  A fire detection device automatically opens the control valve when a fire is identified and water flows into the system. The water is then discharged out of the open sprinkler heads. The water control valve may also be opened manually.  Fire department connection are not typically connected to deluge automatic sprinkler systems.

The Deluge Pre-Action Automatic Sprinkler System is a deluge automatic sprinkler that has automatic  sprinkler heads and a pre-action valve. The Deluge pre-action automatic sprinkler system is equipped with a fire detection valve that recognizes a fire before the automatic sprinklers are activated. The piping system contains air that may or may not be under pressure. With the detection of  heat or smoke preceding  a fire detection event, the pre-action valve will open and allow water to flow into the fire sprinkler system piping. Water will not flow from the automatic sprinkler heads until a fire has generated sufficient heat to open the automatic sprinkler heads. Pre-action System  are used in locations where accidental activation is undesired, such as in museums with rare art works, manuscripts, or books.

Foam Application –  A Foam fire sprinkler systems is connected to the public water system and mixes a foam concentrate at specific proportions with water to create a foam blanket that smothers a fire. Foam concentrate is stored  in a tank and is introduced into the sprinkler water piping system when the fire sprinkler system is activated. The foam can be introduced into the sprinkler water piping system  by the means of a bladder tank  or  delivered through the use of a foam pump.