Dry sprinkler systems are a type of fire protection system used in freezing environments. Unlike wet pipe systems, which store water in the pipes at all times, these store pressurized air or nitrogen to prevent water from freezing, expanding, and causing the system to fail in sub-zero environments.
Key Takeaways
- Dry sprinkler systems use pressurized air to prevent freezing in cold climates.
- Water enters pipes only after sprinkler activation or fire detection triggers.
- Pre-action and double interlock systems reduce risk of accidental discharge.
- Deluge systems flood high-risk areas quickly when fire detection is triggered.
What Are the Common Types of Dry Sprinkler Systems?
Standard Dry Sprinkler System
The way a standard dry pipe sprinkler system works is simple: a dry-pipe valve holds back the water supply from filling the pipes. When heat from a fire activates the sprinkler head, the air is released, causing the valve to open, and water is then allowed into the system to control or extinguish it.
Pre-Action Dry Sprinkler System
These systems are slightly more complex than the standard ones. An electrically operated valve, called the deluge valve, holds back water from the pipes and requires a signal from a fire detection system, such as smoke or heat detectors, to open.
It’s a two-step process: Heat or smoke by themselves can’t engage the sprinkler heads. However, once water is in the pipes, heat needs to activate the sprinkler heads individually for it to be released onto the fire.
This is often used in settings where accidental water discharge could be disastrous, such as in libraries or data centers.
Deluge Dry Sprinkler System
Deluge systems have open sprinkler heads, and the pipes are dry. When the fire detection system activates, water is released into all the sprinkler heads simultaneously, flooding the entire area. There’s no waiting for individual sprinklers to activate.
This system is used in high-hazard areas where fire can rapidly spread, such as chemical plants.
Dry Pilot Sprinkler System
This type of system employs a pilot line filled with compressed air or nitrogen as an auxiliary that monitors heat exposure. When a fire occurs, the heat causes the pressure in the pilot line to drop, which then triggers the main valve to open and release water into the sprinkler pipes.
Some favor these systems for their mechanical simplicity. They can also be found in deluge dry pipe sprinkler systems.
Double Interlock Pre-Action System
This system provides the highest level of protection against accidental water discharge, requiring two separate events to occur before it engages. Water will only flow into the pipes when the fire detection system is activated, and at least one sprinkler head has opened.
The pre-action system, in comparison, allows water into the pipes the moment the fire detection system is activated.
They’re often installed in areas where water damage could be catastrophic, like in server rooms and art galleries.
SunCo Lawns can help you make sure your sprinkler system is in check. Contact us now and take advantage of our seasonal maintenance packages.
Check Out These Other Terms!
- What Is a Sprinkler Riser?: Learn what a sprinkler riser is and why it’s essential for delivering water from the main supply to the sprinklers.
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- Sprinkler System Cost: Discover how much sprinkler systems cost and learn how to best budget for them!
