Wet Pipe Fire Sprinkler Systems

A wet pipe system involves pressurized water being continuously maintained within the sprinkler piping. When a fire is detected, the sprinkler is activated and water is immediately dispersed. Wet sprinkler systems are the most popular type of system for businesses because they are reliable, require little maintenance, and are very user-friendly. However, because the pipes in a wet pipe sprinkler system always contain water, this type of system will not work in areas where temperatures fall below 40⁰ F.

There are a few possible drawbacks of a wet pipe sprinkler system. There is a risk of potential damage to your property if the pipe leaks or breaks. Because of this, this system type isn’t an ideal option for businesses housing sensitive equipment.

“Water spray” systems are operationally identical to a deluge system, but the piping and discharge nozzle spray patterns are designed to protect a uniquely configured hazard, usually being three-dimensional components or equipment. This differs from a deluge system, which is designed to cover the horizontal floor area of a room. The nozzles used may not be listed as fire sprinklers, and are usually selected for a specific spray pattern to conform to the three-dimensional nature of the hazard (e.g., typical spray patterns being oval, fan, full circle, narrow jet). Examples of hazards protected by water spray systems are electrical transformers containing oil for cooling or turbo-generator bearings. Water spray systems can also be used externally on the surfaces of tanks containing flammable liquids or gases (such as hydrogen). Here the water spray is intended to cool the tank and its contents to prevent tank rupture/explosion (BLEVE) and fire spread.

In order to help protect your facility, staff, and assets, a functional sprinkler system is required. Comparing the types of sprinkler system options will help you to determine which type is best for your facility’s fire protection needs. If you have questions about your options, or if you’re ready to install a fire sprinkler system, contact Mid South Fire Solutions. We’re always happy to help.

Below is a list of Sprinkler Systems we design, fabricate, install and maintain: