Sprinkler systems

A sprinkler system consists of a water supply, a distribution pipework, and sprinkler heads. Sprinkler heads are activated by heat when a temperature-sensitive glass bulb shatters or a fusible link melts.

Sprinklers help control fire and can often extinguish it, and are considered both fire detection and suppression systems.

The most common sprinkler systems are either wet pipe or dry pipe. Other types include deluge systems and pre-action systems.

The water supplies can be either mains-fed, a water storage tank, or via natural watercourses such as lakes and rivers.

Wet pipe systems are the most common type of sprinkler system. Water is stored under pressure in the pipes and released from sprinkler heads as soon as the temperature reaches a predetermined level.

Dry pipe sprinkler systems take slightly longer to activate. They are often found in buildings that are unheated or unoccupied and where pipes may freeze and burst. Either nitrogen gas or pressurised air is stored in the pipes, connected to a water supply. When a fire is detected, the air is released by the sprinkler head, and water flows through the system.

Dry pipe sprinkler systems take slightly longer to activate. They are often found in buildings that are unheated or unoccupied and where pipes may freeze and burst. Either nitrogen gas or pressurised air is stored in the pipes, connected to a water supply. When a fire is detected, the air is released by the sprinkler head, and water flows through the system.

Pre-action sprinklers are a combination of wet and dry pipe systems and are used in areas at high risk of water damage. Water is not stored in the pipes at all times, but is released into the pipework when a fire alarm is activated. Even then, it is not discharged until the individual sprinkler head reaches a specified temperature.

A fire sprinkler system can protect both the property and the people working or living in it.