A Quick Guide To Fire Sprinkler Head Types and Their Uses

Introduction

Fire sprinkler systems are an essential safety feature in any building, but not all sprinkler heads are the same. Different types of sprinkler heads are designed for specific applications, and understanding their differences can help you choose the right system for your needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the various types of fire sprinkler heads and their specific uses.

Standard Response Sprinkler Heads.

Standard response sprinkler heads are the most common type of sprinkler head and are designed to activate when the temperature at the sprinkler head reaches a specific threshold, typically between 57 and 73 degrees celsius. These sprinkler heads are ideal for use in areas where fires are likely to spread quickly, such as commercial kitchens, warehouses, and storage facilities. Standard response sprinkler heads are available in a variety of styles, including concealed, recessed, and pendant.

The standard response sprinkler head is typically made up of two parts: an outer shell (usually made from stainless steel) and an inner core (made from brass). The shell protects the inner core from damage and also prevents water from entering after activation. The inner core contains a gasket that helps seal the top of the sprinkler head against water pressure after activation. In addition to providing protection from damage due to heat or physical impact during installation or operation, this gasket also helps prevent water from entering after activation until sufficient pressure builds up inside the sprinkler head for it to release through nozzles located at each side of each chamber in this type of design.

Quick Response Sprinkler Heads.

Quick response sprinkler heads are designed to activate at a lower temperature than standard response sprinkler heads, typically between 38 and 57 degrees celsius. This makes them ideal for use in areas where fires may start and spread quickly, such as offices, hospitals, and residential buildings. Quick response sprinkler heads are also available in a variety of styles, including concealed, recessed, and pendant. It’s important to note that quick response sprinkler heads are not suitable for use in areas where there is a high risk of false alarms, such as areas with high humidity or where there is a lot of dust or debris in the air.

Quick response sprinklers are activated by heat rather than smoke or other combustion products. The activation temperature varies depending on the model (for example some models may be activated at 57 degrees Celsius), but most quick response sprinklers will activate at around 40 degrees Celsius.

Residential Sprinkler Heads.

Residential sprinkler heads are designed specifically for use in homes and apartments. They are typically smaller and less conspicuous than commercial sprinkler heads, and are available in a variety of styles and finishes to match the decor of the home. Residential sprinkler heads are also designed to activate at a lower temperature than commercial sprinkler heads, typically between 57 and 73 degrees celsius. This makes them ideal for use in areas where fires may start and spread quickly, such as kitchens, laundry rooms, and garages. It’s important to note that residential sprinkler heads should be installed by a licensed professional to ensure proper placement and function.

Residential sprinkler systems can be installed using either hardwired or wireless technology. Hardwired systems require that electrician install the electrical components necessary for operation; wireless systems utilise batteries as their power source instead. Wireless systems are typically easier to install than hardwired ones because they do not require any wiring work on your part; however, they may not be able to activate as quickly as hardwired systems can if there is poor reception at the location where you install them (such as when placing them on an upper level).

Extended Coverage Sprinkler Heads.

Extended coverage sprinkler heads are designed for use in large, open spaces such as warehouses, factories, and retail stores. They have a larger coverage area than standard sprinkler heads, typically between 4.5 and 6 metres in diameter, and are designed to activate at higher temperatures, typically between 79 and 107 degrees celsius. This allows them to quickly and effectively suppress fires in large areas. Extended coverage sprinkler heads are typically installed in a grid pattern on the ceiling, with spacing determined by the size and layout of the space. It’s important to consult with a licensed professional to ensure proper installation and function of extended coverage sprinkler heads.

Special Sprinkler Heads.

There are many different types of sprinkler heads that can be used in fire sprinkler systems. As mentioned above, the most common include standard and extended coverage sprinkler heads, which are used to cover large areas. Standard sprinkler heads have a 360-degree arc and are typically found in offices and warehouses, while extended coverage sprinklers have a smaller arc but can still cover large areas.

In addition to standard and extended coverage sprinkler heads, there are also dry sprinkler heads, which are designed for use in areas where freezing temperatures may be a concern, and pre-action sprinklers, which require two triggers before water is released and are often used in areas with sensitive equipment or materials. It’s important to choose the right type of sprinkler head for your specific needs to ensure maximum effectiveness in the event of a fire.

Conclusion

There are a variety of different sprinkler head types to choose from, each designed for use in specific conditions. Before you purchase a new sprinkler head or set of sprinkler heads, take some time to research what kind will meet your needs and perform best.

For more information on residential sprinklers, high-risk sprinklers and many other fire prevention products, Complete Fire and Pumps can provided a comprehensive range on the right fire sprinkler products for your home or business.

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Alex