Fire Sprinkler System Fundamental of Design & Installation

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.
Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

What will You learn after Completion of
this Module…..?
❑ Understanding Sprinkler Operation and Its Different Types
❑ About Pendent Type Sprinklers
❑ About Recessed and Concealed Pendent Type Sprinklers
❑ About Sidewall Type Sprinklers
❑ How to Conduct Pipe Sizing Calculations?
❑ Understanding the Different Types of Sprinkler Pipes
❑ How to Perform Sprinkler Flow Calculation?
❑ How to Estimate Sprinkler Coverage Distance?
❑ How to Install a Sprinkler System?
FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

EDUFIRE.IR Telegram: EDUFIRE.IR
SECTION 01
SYSTEM FUNDAMENTALS

Automatic Fire Sprinkler System
Myths and Realities
MYTHS REALITY
All sprinkler heads operate simultaneously With the exception of the deluge type of sprinkler system,
sprinkler heads operate independently; only the sprinkler
head(s) in the fire area—not every head in the building—
activates to control or suppress a fire.
Sprinkler heads activate for no reason. Sprinkler heads undergo numerous tests by third-party
testing and certification organizations to ensure that they
maintain stability when standing ready to operate. It is rare
that a sprinkler head accidentally activates unless it has
suffered mechanical damage, exposure to freezing
conditions, or excessive heat not related to a fire.

Myths and Realities
MYTHS REALITY
The amount of water discharged from a sprinkler The amount of water discharged from a residential
system is enough to cause a flood or drown a sprinkler head is about the same as that from a
person. showerhead, a minimal amount when compared to
that discharged from a manual fire hose stream. A
manual fire hose stream delivers 10 to 100 times
more water than one sprinkler head during a fire
event and could cause substantially more collateral
damage. A commercial sprinkler head is able to
discharge considerably more water, but it is uniformly
distributed over a number of square feet of area and
is still less than most manual fire hose stream
applications.

Myths and Realities
MYTHS REALITY
Expenses related to water damage from sprinkler Fire sprinkler systems deliver as little water as
systems are higher than those related to fire required to control and, in numerous cases,
damage. extinguish a fire; and, in many cases,
property can be salvaged from the water exposure
more easily than it could from exposure to fire and
smoke. In addition,
sprinklers limit the spread of fire and smoke, therefore
limiting the amount of fire and smoke damage.

MYTHS REALITY
The activation of a smoke detector will The vast majority of smoke detectors operate
cause the sprinkler head to operate. independently of fire sprinkler systems. Although
there are some smoke detectors that integrate with
specialized fire suppression systems, they do not
activate sprinkler heads; instead, the detectors send a
signal to a panel that releases water into the piping
system.
New homes are safer because smoke alarms are Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms will
required to be installed on all levels and that alert occupants that there is a fire, but because many
provides sufficient protection. new homes are
built with lightweight construction materials that burn
and fail faster, and the newer furnishings are made of
synthetic materials that increase fuel load, burn faster,
and emit toxic by-products, the amount of time
available to escape once the alarm sounds can be
reduced, whereas a fire sprinkler system will apply
water to control or possibly extinguish a fire before the
fire department arrives.
Determine Requirement of Sprinkler System

Understanding General Occupancy
Classifications
+
Occupancy Classification for the application
of Sprinkler system
&
Determining Requirement of Sprinkler System based
on Occupancies

Occupancy Classification
The ICC codes and the NFPA codes divide the occupancy classifications slightly differently. However,
the 10 most common occupancy classifications used throughout the various building and life safety
codes.
▪ Assembly occupancies
▪ Business occupancies
▪ Educational occupancies
▪ Factory or Industrial occupancies
▪ Hazardous occupancies
▪ Institutional occupancies
▪ Mercantile occupancies
▪ Residential occupancies
▪ Storage occupancies
▪ Utility or Miscellaneous occupancies

Comparison of Occupancy Classifications
Occupancy ICC NFPA
Classification International Building Code Life Safety Code and NFPA 5000
ASSEMBLY A-1 Assembly, Theaters (Fixed Seats) A - Assembly (variations noted by occupant
A-2 Assembly, Food and/or Drink Consumption load)
A-3 Assembly, Worship, Recreation, Amusement
A-4 Assembly, Indoor Sporting Events
A-5 Assembly, Outdoor Activities
BUSINESS B- Business B –Business
AHC- Ambulatory Health Care
EDUCATIONAL E- Educational (includes some day care) E- Educational
FACTORY/INDS F-1 Factory Industrial, Moderate Hazard I- Industrial, General

F-2 Factory Industrial, Low Hazard Industrial, Special Purpose Industrial,
High Hazard
HAZARDOUS H-1 Hazardous, Detonation Hazard (Included in Group I)
H-2 Hazardous, Deflagration Hazard or Accelerated Burning
H-3 Hazardous, Physical or Combustible Hazard
H-4 Hazardous, Health Hazard
H-5 Hazardous, Hazardous Production Materials (HPM)
INSTITUTIONAL I-1 Institutional, Custodial Care OL* >16 D-I Detentional/Correctional (includes various
I-2 Institutional, Medical Care sub-conditions I-V)
I-3 Institutional, Restrained (includes various Sub-conditions I-5) H- Health Care
I-4 Institutional, Day Care Facilities DC -Day Care
EDUFIRE.IR FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE) Telegram: EDUFIRE.IR

Comparison of Occupancy Classifications
Occupancy ICC NFPA
Classification International Building Code Life Safety Code and NFPA 5000
MERCANTILE M Mercantile M-A Mercantile, > 3 levels or > 30,000 SF (2800
SM)
M-B Mercantile, ≤ 3 stories or > 3000 SF (280
SM) and ≤ 30,000 SF (2800 SM)
M-C Mercantile, 1 story ≤ 3000 SF (280 SM)
RESIDENTIAL R-1 Residential, Transient R- Residential, Hotels and Dormitories
R-2 Residential, Multi-Dwelling Unit Residential, Apartment Buildings
R-3 Residential, One and Two Dwelling Units Residential, Lodging or Rooming Houses
R-4 Residential, Care and Assisted Living Residential, One- and Two-Family Dwellings
Facilities OL > 5 ≤16 Residential, Board and Care
STORAGE S-1 Storage, Moderate Hazard S Storage
S-2 Storage, Low Hazard
UTILITY/ U Utility and Miscellaneous Special Structures and High-Rise
MISCELLANEOUS Buildings

Requirement of Sprinkler System
IBC 2018 CH. 04 , HIGH RISE BUILDING

Requirement of Sprinkler System
NFPA 101, 2009,CH. 12 , ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES

WHEN TO DO IT
HOW TO DO IT
WHAT TO DO
REFERENCE
PRODUCT
STANDARDS AND
TEST PROTOCOL
The Hierarchy of Reference Documents

Educational Occupancy Thresholds

Mercantile Occupancy Thresholds

Understanding Sprinkler Operation and Its
Different Types

Convective Heat Flow in Fires
Approximately 92 percent to 98 percent of the heat that a heat
detector/Sprinklers receives is carried to the detector/sprinkler in the hot air and
combustion product gases of the ceiling jet created by the fire
The ceiling jet is approximately 10 percent of the distance from the base of the fire
to the ceiling

Convective Heat Flow in Fires

Primary Purpose of Sprinkler Spray
1. It delivers water to the burning

material and reduces the combustion
rate by preventing further generation
of combustible vapor.
2. It wets the surrounding material which
reduces the flame spread rate
3. It cools the surrounding air by
evaporation and displaces air with
inert water vapor.

Sprinkler Design Purposes
1. Sprays from sprinklers located directly above the fire must have
sufficient vertical momentum to penetrate the fire plume and reach
the burning commodity.
2. Spray from sprinklers located in the ceiling jet must have sufficient
horizontal momentum to counteract the ceiling jet flow and reach
the burning commodity positioned between sprinklers
3. The spray must absorb enough heat from the plume and ceiling jet
to lower the temperatures to an acceptable level

Sprinkler Design Purposes
Spray pattern is a crucial characteristic of fire sprinklers. The way they spray
water determines how effective they are at different jobs. There are two
main variables in fire sprinkler spray patterns: droplet size and spray angle.
Droplets, as Kenneth Isman explains, come in three sizes and perform three
separate functions:
1.Small droplets provide cooling, absorbing the heat of a fire.
2.Medium droplets are useful for pre-wetting combustible materials near a
fire.
3.Large droplets penetrate a fire plume where smaller droplets would
vaporize. These directly attack a fire.

What is a Sprinkler System
❑ A fire sprinkler system is an ACTIVE fire protection measure, consisting of

a water supply system, providing adequate pressure and flow of water
through a distribution piping system, onto which fire sprinklers are
connected,
❑ Sprinkler systems have been around since the late 1880’s,
❑ In 1874, H.S. Pamelee patented the first practical automatic sprinkler,

Sprinkler System Components
❑Pipe and Fittings
❑Gauges
❑Valves
❑Pipe Supports
❑Sprinkler Heads

Pipe
and
Fittings
Not all pipe or tubing that meets these

standards is also listed for fire sprinkler service.
Pipes that are “listed” have been rigorously
tested and found to meet the safety standards
of a third-party certification agency. Metal
pipes are listed to UL 852 and thermoplastic
pipes are listed to UL 1821.
****If listed materials differ from Table 7.3.1.1,

NFPA 13 permits their use as long as installers
adhere to any limitations in the listing. FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)
Pipe and Fittings
The pipe schedule or type indicates the thickness of the

pipe wall

Gauges
• Pressure gauges are a small but important component of the fire sprinkler system. Some systems
only have water gauges, but others also have air gauges. Gauges help fire fighters, sprinkler
system contractors, and building maintenance workers to determine the available water or air
pressure at the gauge location.
• In addition, a gauge can help to determine whether there is a problem with the system if the gauge
reading is outside the normal or expected pressure readings.
• Water gauges are typically installed on the supply and system sides of the various fire sprinkler
system valves and fire pumps, at the tops of standpipes, at the main drain, at each floor level when
feeding a sprinkler system from a standpipe, and on each side of pressure-regulating devices. Air
gauges are installed on the system side of certain fire sprinkler valves, on system air sources, on air
supply lines, and on quick-opening devices.
• Gauges should not be subject to freezing temperatures, should have a shut-off valve, and should be
capable of draining.

Valves
• All automatic fire sprinkler system control valves must be indicating-type valves so that a person
can look at the valve and determine if the valve is open, partially open, or shut. In addition, these
valves require identification with a permanent metal or rigid plastic weatherproof sign, which must
identify the area of the building served by that valve (National Fire Protection Association 2019,
NFPA 13, Section 16.9.12.1).
• All indicating valves must be able to handle 175 psi or carry an appropriate rating for an anticipated
pressure above 175 psi. Fully open indicating valves shall not close in less than 5 seconds when
operated at maximum possible speed (National Fire Protection Association 2019, NFPA 13, Section
7.6.1). Indicating valves in fire sprinkler systems are usually 2 in. or larger and include the outside
screw and yoke (OS&Y) valve, butterfly indicator valve, wall post indicator valve (WPIV), and post
indicator valve (PIV)

Control Valves

Control Valves
▪ OS&Y Valve
▪ Post Indicator Valve (PIV)
▪ Post Indicator Valve Assembly (PIVA)
▪ Operating Valves
OS&Y secured
in open
position by
chain & lock
Supervised control

❑ Outside Screw and Yoke (OS&Y)
Valve
Monitored
❑ Post Indicator Valve (PIV)

❑ Post Indicator Valve
Assembly (PIVA)
❑ Wall Post Indicator Valve

(WPIV)

Waterflow Alarms
❑ Hydraulic or Electrical;
▪ warn of water movement in system,

▪ hydraulic alarm sounds local,
▪ electrical alarm sounds local and fire alarm
system.

Pipe Support and Stabilization
Assemblies
• The majority of sprinkler piping runs horizontally across a building’s ceilings; in
order to ensure that it stays in place and does not fall or move too much,
hangers, bracing, supports, guides, restraints, and different types of fasteners are
used. Bracing, guides, and restraints hold the pipe in position and prevent
movement in an unwanted direction. A typical hanger assembly consists of a
fastener or clamp, threaded rod, and a ring that holds the pipe. Fasteners secure
the other components to the structure and are available for many different
materials and installation situations.
• Fasteners can be attached by hammering, screwing, power driving, or drilling, but
it is extremely important that the correct type of fastener attach to the compatible
building material to ensure that the assembly carries the load for the type and
size of the pipe. For piping that runs vertically, riser-type clamps hold the pipe in
position and prevent upward and downward movement. These support and
stabilization assemblies hold the weight of the sprinkler system pipe and water by
attaching to the structure or providing a place for the pipe to rest on

Hanger Loads
• There is a difference between the safety factors applied to the hanger
versus those for the building structure. In general, the hanger
components are expected to support five times the weight of the
water-filled piping plus a load of 250 lb (114 kg) at any point of piping
support.

Hanger Distance

Sway Bracing Placement
lateral Bracing

Longitudinal Bracing

4 way Bracing

Sprinkler Heads
Once activated, a sprinkler head develops a water spray pattern

that covers a certain area below the head.

Sprinkler Heads
❑ Sprinkler heads are the key components of the system,
▪ Heads must be suitable in design, performance, application and temperature for

type of property it is protecting,
▪ Standard heads are marked with SSU (standard sprinkler upright) or SSP (standard sprinkler pendent)
on the deflector,
▪ Side wall heads may be pendent, upright, or horizontal,

Sprinkler Heads
frangible bulb
fusible link
❑ The typical sprinkler head is activated by heat (temperature),
▪ opens when a triggering action occurs,

▪ a frangible bulb breaks (color indicates temperature setting),
▪ a fusible link melts,
▪ water flows when head is opened,
▪ water is manually shut off,
▪ once activated, head must be replace,

Sprinkler Heads
❑ Types;
▪ Upright
▪ Pendant
▪ Sidewall
▪ Recessed heads

Application of Sprinkler Types
Sprinklers
Conventional
Fast Response Spray Sprinklers Large Drop
Sprinklers
Residential QR ESFR
Quick Response Extended QR Extended

Standard Response
several orifice Coverage Coverage
several orifice sized
sizes
Extended Extended
FF Design- Mehboob
Coverage LHShaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE) Coverage OH
Sprinklers Temperature Rating
This Liquid may contain
Toluene, xylene, n-decane, cyclohexane, trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, ethyl

acetoacetate, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, glycerol or
ethyl acetate, or mixtures thereof
The size of the bubble and the expansion rate of the liquid
establish the operating temperature of the sprinkler.
# 6.2.5.4-The frame arms of bulb-type sprinklers shall not be

required to be color coded.
Typical Sprinkler Design

Deflector Design

Sprinkler Heads
❑ Storage Cabinet;
▪ Extra heads
▪ Sprinkler wrench
❑ Cabinets hold a minimum of six sprinklers and sprinkler

wrench in accordance with NFPA® 13.
• Less than 300 heads min 6 spares

• 300 – 1,000 heads min 12 spares
• More than 1000 heads min 24 spares
The Difference Between Standard Response and
Quick Response Sprinklers
Until 1953, fire sprinklers had

what we now call “conventional”
or “old-style” deflectors, which
would throw between 40 and
60% of their discharged water
initially upwards rather than
downwards.

The Difference Between Standard Response
and Quick Response Sprinklers
NFPA 13 defines “fast-response” and “standard-response” sprinklers based on these RTI values (3.3.205.4):
•Fast response sprinklers have RTIs of 50 or less.
•Standard response sprinklers have RTIs of 80 or less.
Standard vs QR vs Residential

What is the Hydraulic Advantage of QR Spr.
Because QR sprinklers open faster and thus may control fires
sooner, NFPA 13 encourages designers to use them instead of standard
response sprinklers in certain conditions. Specifically, designers can
employ QR sprinklers where (19.3.3.2.3.1):
• The occupancy is light or ordinary hazard (the only time QR is
allowed)
• The sprinkler system is wet-pipe
• The ceiling is no more than 20 feet high
• There are no unprotected ceiling pockets covering more than 32 ft.2
• There are no unprotected areas above cloud ceilings

What is the Hydraulic Advantage of QR Spr.
Without Quick-Response With Quick Response
Design density: 0.15 gpm/ft.2 Design Density: 0.15 gpm/ft2
Design area: 1500 ft.2 Design area: 900 ft.2
Required flow in design area: 225 gpm Required flow in design area: 135 gpm

Sprinkler Identification
All sprinklers shall be permanently marked with one or two English uppercase
alphabetic characters to identify the manufacturer, immediately followed by three
or four numbers, to uniquely identify a sprinkler as to K-factor, deflector
characteristic, pressure rating, and thermal sensitivity
Sprinkler Identification Number

• All of this information is important, but the type of head, temperature rating,
and K-factor are critical to the design process. Installing a head that has
the wrong temperature rating for the installation conditions could lead to
unwanted activation, delayed activation, or no activation.

• For calculation and design purposes, the K-factor establishes the mathematical
relationship between the pressure and flow from a sprinkler head. With Q being
the discharge in gallons per minute, K being the discharge coefficient for the
orifice of the sprinkler head, and P being the water pressure in pounds per
square inch, the relationship for determining flow is expressed in the following
formula:
Q=K√P
• Each size orifice has a K-factor value that applies when performing hydraulic
calculations. For example, a ½-in. orifice has an applied nominal K-factor of 5.6,
a ¾-in. orifice has a nominal K-factor of 14.0, and a 1-in. orifice has a nominal K-
factor of 25.2

Sprinkler head orifices with K-factors of 25.2, 14.0, and 5.6 (from left to right).

Types of Systems

Types of Systems
There are four major types of sprinkler systems;
▪The Wet Pipe system,
▪The Dry Pipe system,
▪The Deluge system and
▪The Pre-Action system.

Types of Systems
Wet pipe --------- by far the most common,
Dry-pipe --------- where water freezing is possible,
Deluge ------------ for high hazard applications,
Pre-Action ------- where concerns over water damage.

Wet Pipe Sprinkler

Wet Pipe Sprinkler
❑ Pipes are always filled with water. Heat from fire opens a sprinkler head,
❑ Usually only one or two heads open,
❑ Water flows until it is shut off,
❑ The open sprinkler head(s) is replaced and the system is reset.

An opening sprinkler head triggers the system

Wet Pipe Sprinkler
❑ A one-way clapper prevents water from re-entering the water supply,
❑ Gauges on both sides of the main valve, register pressure on the supply and system
sides,
❑ A retard chamber prevents sudden pressure surges which could cause a false
alarm,
❑ An alarm check valve detects water flow and activates the alarm system,

Wet Pipe Sprinkler
❑ There is a control valve to shut off the system, normally an O.S.&Y. (Outside Stem and
Yoke) or (Outside Screw and Yoke),
❑ There is a main drain valve which drains the system for service,
❑ And an Inspectors TestValve, usually at the end of the system, used to simulate flow
from a single head and to measure the system response.

Typical wet pipe sprinkler valve
Clapper Valve

Wet Pipe Sprinkler
❑ Restoration of the System, Liability Issues;
▪ Some occupancies have required systems for life safety, i.e., public assembly, hotels
and high-rises,
▪ Does your FD allow restoration of the system?
▪ If Not, then require a FIRE WATCH or EVACUATE THE BUILDING…..
▪ Or at least, shut off the closest control valve and leave the rest of the system
operational,
Wet Pipe Sprinkler
❑ If your SOP allows restoration;
▪ after the fire is completely under control, the closest sectional water control
valve should be closed,
▪ the main control valve should not be closed unless there are no sectional valves,

Wet Pipe Sprinkler
❑ Restoration of the System;
▪ shut down any water source supplying the system,
▪ the sprinkler head(s) are replaced with an identical one from the spares in the
sprinkler control room,
▪ re-open any closed control valves,
▪ open the Inspectors Test Valve to ensure water is flowing to the topmost sprinkler.

Wet Pipe Sprinkler System

Dry Pipe Sprinkler System

Dry Pipe Sprinkler
❑ Dry pipes systems are used in unheated buildings, but the valve room must be
heated,
❑ Dry pipe systems are more difficult to design than wet pipe systems and are harder
to restore,
Dry Pipe Sprinkler
❑ Pipes are not filled with water (but with pressurized gas or air)
❑ Heat from a fire opens a sprinkler head,
❑ Usually only one or two heads open,
❑ Air pressure drops in the piping and opens a water valve (the dry-pipe valve)

Dry Pipe Sprinkler
❑Water fills the pipes and exits through an open sprinkler head(s),
❑ Water flows until shut off,
❑ Open sprinkler head is replaced,
❑ System is reset,

❑ Pipes in protected space are filled with air or inert gas; an opening sprinkler head,
triggers the system by releasing the air or gas, which allows water to flow into the pipes
and then out through the open sprinkler head.
Dry Pipe Sprinkler
❑ A dry pipe valve keeps pressurized air above the supply water pressure,
❑ The clapper valve has a locking mechanism to keep the clapper open until it is reset,
by draining the system, opening the dry pipe valve cover and resetting the lock,
❑ Dry pipe systems are a little slower to activate than wet pipe systems, so most
have either an Exhauster or Accelerator to speed up the system operation,

Typical Dry Pipe Valve

Dry Pipe Sprinkler
❑ The Exhauster detects decrease in air pressure and helps bleed off air,

Dry Pipe Sprinkler
❑ The Accelerator detects decrease in air pressure and pipes air pressure below the
clapper valve, to speed up it’s opening,

Typical Dry Pipe
Sprinkler set up

SYSTEM OPERATION AND PERFORMANCE
When dry pipe sprinkler systems are ‘trip tested’ for acceptance, the
following events occur after the inspectors test valve is opened.
1. Air pressure begins to drop in the system as a result of the open
inspectors test valve. The loss of air pressure in the system causes the
dry pipe valve to trip at its designed air/water ratio, or when an
optional accelerator trips the valve on loss of air pressure.
2. When the valve trips, water begins to fill the system by compressing
trapped air and forcing air from the inspector’s test connection.
3. Water reaches the test connection and a steady water discharge is
established.
The dry pipe valve trip pressure
• Different models of dry pipe valves trip at different water to air
pressure ratios.
• A typical Water to Air Pressure Ratio = 5.5 : 1
Q ) Static Water Pressure = 75 psi
Determine Trip Pressure for DPV ?

Determine Max. Set Air Pressure for DPV

Use of an accelerator
• Shortens the time required to trip a dry pipe valve since they are very
sensitive to pressure changes and significantly reduce the effect of
system volume
• Typically trip a dry pipe valve in 4 to 10 seconds from the opening of
the inspectors test valve.
• The activation time is dependent on the system volume, system
configuration and test orifice size.

Water transition time
• This is the time required after tripping of the dry pipe valve for water
to displace air in system piping and begin water flow from the test
orifice.

System Actuation Time
• Total Actuation Time = DPV Trip Time + Water Transition Time

Effect of System Volume on Transition Time
1128.6 gallon (4272 liter) capacity (20 lines by 20 lines sprinklers) 410.8 gallon (1555 liter) capacity (10 lines by 10 lines sprinklers)


• All of the trapped air in the system has to be vented from the
sprinkler prior to water arrival.
• In the smaller system, there are no pockets of air to compress, or
non-flowing volumes for the water front to push the air except out of
the open sprinkler.
• The single open sprinkler cannot exhaust air as fast as the 6"(150mm)
riser can fill the system causing back pressure of air and slowing the
fill rate of water.

DPV System Water Delivery – NFPA 13
• Cl. 7.2.3.1.1 - For dry pipe systems protecting dwelling unit portion of
any occupancy, system size shall be such that initial water is
discharged from the system test connection in not more than 15
seconds, starting at the normal air pressure on the system and at the
time of fully opened inspection test connection
• Cl. 7.2.3.2 System size shall be such that initial water is discharged
from the system test connection in not more than 60 seconds,
starting at the normal air pressure on the system and at the time of
fully opened inspection test connection

Cl. 7.2.3.3 A system size of not more than 500 gal (1893 L) shall be
permitted without a quick-opening device and shall not be required to
meet any specific water delivery requirement to the inspection test
connection.
Cl. 7.2.3.4 A system size of not more than 750 gal (2839 L) shall be
permitted with a quick-opening device and shall not be required to
meet any specific water delivery requirement to the inspection test
connection.


Dry Pipe Sprinkler
▪ resetting is not usually performed by FD personnel,
▪ notify the property owners that the system has activated,
▪ the system has to be drained and the dry pipe valve has to
be reset, this is a complex procedure,
▪ in mild weather, the system can stay in a wet condition.

Deluge System

Deluge Sprinkler
❑ Pipes are not filled with water (or gas),
❑ All sprinkler heads are pre-opened,
❑ A signal from a detection device mechanically opens a water valve,

▪ water fills the pipes and flows from all heads,
▪ water flows until shut off,
▪ system is reset.

Deluge Sprinkler
❑ Primarily installed in special hazard areas that have fast spreading fire, (
i.e. petroleum facilities, hazardous materials),
❑ Are also used to apply protein and AFFF foams,
❑ Activation will cause great quantities of water or foam to flow,
❑ Usually requires several detectors to activate before discharging.

❑ Pipes in protected area are empty; a detector signal
triggers the system, allowing water/foam to enter pipes and
flow from all sprinkler heads (which are already open),
Deluge System
▪ the deluge clapper valve must be manually reset with the

latching mechanism in place,
▪ the detection system is re-activated,
▪ because of these procedures, it is not recommended for

the FD to restore the system, leave it to the professionals.

Pre-Action System

Pre-Action Sprinkler
❑ Pipes are not filled with water,
❑ All sprinkler heads are of the standard type (they are closed),
❑ A detection device opens a water valve,
❑ Water fills the pipes,
❑ Water only flows from a sprinkler head if it is opened by heat

from a fire,
❑ Water flows until shut off and system is reset.

❑ Used primarily to protect property where water could
severely damage facilities or equipment, (historical items)
❑ Similar to dry-pipe and deluge system;

▪ closed piping,
▪ little or no air/gas pressure,
▪ water does not flow to the sprinkler heads until detector
activates,
▪ water on fire after sprinkler head fuses,
❑ Turns into a wet system, but allows personnel to check/fight

fire before head fuses,
❑ Pipes in protected area are empty; a detector signal
triggers the system, allowing water to enter pipes and flow
into piping network; heat from a fire may then open a
sprinkler head; accidental damage to a head will not result in
water flow,
▪ the deluge clapper valve must be manually reset with the

latching mechanism in place,
▪ the detection system, with supervisory features is re-

activated,
▪ because of these procedures, it is not recommended for the

FD to restore the system, leave it to the professionals.

Summary of Sprinkler System

Summary of Sprinkler System

SECTION 02
DESIGN FUNDAMENTALS

How to Conduct Pipe Sizing &
Flow calculation

Occupancy Classification – NFPA 13
• Light Hazard
• Ordinary Hazard Group-1
• Ordinary Hazard Group-2
• Extra Hazard Group -1
• Extra Hazard Group -2

Role of Owners
Certificate

Study of Water
• Hydraulics
• The science which defines the mechanical principles of water at rest or in motion.
• Hydrostatics
• The scientific laws that define the principles of water at rest.
• Hydrokinetics
• The study of water in motion.

Hydraulic Focus
• Pressure • Flow

Pressure Types
• Atmospheric Pressure
• Caused by the weight of air, varies with altitude
• Lower at high altitudes, higher at low altitudes
• 14.7 psi at sea level
• Gage Pressure
• The actual reading on a gage, does not account for atmospheric pressure.
(psig)
• Absolute Pressure
• The sum of atmospheric pressure and gage pressure. (psia)

Pressure Types (continued)
• Static Pressure (Ps)

• The potential energy available within a system when no water is flowing.
• Pressure is created by elevating water above a source, or it can be created
mechanically with pumps or pressure tanks.

Elevation Pressure
62.4 lbs/ft2 0.433 lbs/in2
1 ft 1 ft
• A cubic foot of water results in a static pressure at its

base of 62.4 lbs/ft2
• Converted to square inches a column of water 1-foot
high exerts a pressure of 0.433 lbs/in2

Elevation Pressure (continued)
• Pressure (psi) = 0.433 X Elevation (ft)
15 ft
5 ft
What is the pressure difference?

Elevation Pressure Example (Continued)
• What is the pressure at the hydrant?

Pressure (psi) = 0.433 x Elevation (ft)
P = 0.433 x 200 ft
200 ft
P = 90.93psi
P=?
P  91 psi
6 ft

Elevation Pressure 2nd Example
• How high is the water?
Pressure(psi) = 0.433 Elevation(ft)
Pressure(psi)
? ft Elevation(ft) =
0.433
P=47 psi
47psi
Elevation(ft) =
0.433
Elevation = 108.55ft  109 ft
6 ft

• Residual Pressure (PR)

• The pressure at a given point in a conduit or appliance with a specific volume
of water flowing.

• Normal Pressure (PN)

• The pressure created on the walls of pipe PN
or tanks holding water.
• This is the pressure read by most gages.
• Velocity Pressure (PV)
• The pressure associated with the flow of
water measured in the same direction as
the flow.
PV

Calculating Velocity Pressures
Pn = P t – Pv
Where:
Pn = normal pressure (psi)
Pt = total pressure (psi)
Pv = velocity pressure (psi)
Velocity pressure can be found as follows:

2
0.001123Q
Pv = 4
di
Using Velocity Pressure
• When velocities are high in a closed system the pressure needs to be
accounted for in the calculations
• It can reduce the flows and pressures needed in a system 5-10
percent
• In most sprinkler systems velocities are low and their pressures create
a minor effect, therefore velocity pressures can be ignored.
• It should be used at points where large flows take a 90-degree turn in
the piping.

Flow (Q)
• The quantity (of water) which passes by a given point in a given
period of time
• Generally measured in gallons per minute (gpm) or cubic feet per
second (ft3/sec)
• Uses the term “Q” in most equations

Flow Equation
Q=AxV
• Q = flow in ft3/sec
• A = cross sectional area of pipe in ft2
• V = water velocity in ft/sec
• Q is a constant for any given closed system.

Flow Equation (continued)
Q = A x V = constant flow
X gpm
When the pipe size changes flow remains

constant:
Q = A1 x V1 = A2 x V2
A1 x V1 = A2 x V2

Flow Example 1
5.7 ? 3-inch
6-inch
ft/s
• If water is flowing at 5.7 ft/sec in 6-inch pipe, how fast is it flowing when
the pipe size is reduced to 3-inch?

Flow Example 1 Solution
5.7 ? 3-inch
6-inch
ft/s
How fast is it flowing when the pipe size is reduced to 2-

inch? A 1 V1
A1 V1 = A2V2 V2 =
A2
A1 =  r2 =  (3 in)2 = 28.3 in2
A2 =  r2 =  (1.5 in)2 = 7.1 in2
(28.3in2 )(5.7ft/sec)
V2 = 2
= 22.7ft/sec
7.1in
Flow from an Outlet
• Dependent upon a number of factors
• Size of the orifice
• Construction of the device
• Material used in the device
• Other components near the device (e.g. screens)
• For a sprinkler, that ability is determined experimentally in a
laboratory

Flow from an Outlet (continued)
Q = 29.83 di  Pv  CD
2
• Where:
• Q is the flow (gpm)
• di is the diameter of opening (inches)
• Pv is the measured velocity pressure (psi)
• CD is the discharge coefficient of the device
• This is used when testing water supplies to determine the amount of

flow

Flow from a Sprinkler
Q = k P
Where:
Q is flow (gpm)
k is k-factor determined in the sprinkler listing
(gpm/psi½)
P is the pressure (psi)
• The diameter of the opening and discharge
coefficient are incorporated into the empirical
determination of k-factor.

Sprinkler Flow Example
• A sprinkler is being installed with a k-factor of 5.6. If the pressure at
the sprinkler is 20 psi, how much water will exit the sprinkler?
Q =k P
Q = 5.6 20 psi
Q = 25.0 gpm

Flow from a Sprinkler (continued)
• The flow equation can be rearranged to solve for pressure or k-factor:

2
Q 
P= 
k
Q =k P
Q
k=
P
Pressure Calculation Example
• What is the pressure for a sprinkler that has a k-factor of 17.6 and the
expected flow is 83 gpm?
2
 83 gpm 
2 P= 
Q   17.6 
P= 
k P = (4.716) = 22.2 psi
2

K-factor Calculation Example
• What is the K-factor for an outlet that is flowing 65 gpm at 30 psi?
• 65 gpm
k=
Q 30 psi
k=
P 65
k= = 11.86
5.48

Friction Loss (PL)
• Occurs when water flows in pipes, hoses, or other system devices
• Caused by water in contact with walls
• Used to account for losses in energy from water making turns or
traveling difficult paths

Formulas for Calculating Friction Loss
• Hazen-Williams formula
• Fire sprinkler systems
• Water-spray systems
• Darcy-Weisbach formula
• Anti-freeze systems
• Water mist systems
• Foam-water systems
• Fanning formula

Hazen-Williams Formula
• Most common for sprinkler calculations
• Assumes water is at room temperature but is still accurate with
temperature variations
• Based on C-factor, flow, and pipe size
• Calculates the amount of friction loss in ONE FOOT of pipe

Hazen-Williams Formula
1.85
4.52Q
• Where: PL = 1.85 4.87
• PL = friction loss (psi/ft) C di
• Q = flow (gpm)
• C = roughness coefficient (based on pipe material)
• di = interior pipe diameter (inches)
You can see the above equation that if Q is raised to the power of 1.85 in the above equation this has the effect that if the flow is
doubled and all other things remain constant the friction loss will increase by almost 4 times if the flow was to triple the friction loss
would almost be 9 times greater. You can also see that the pipe diameter D is raised to the power of 4.87 and that it's in the
denominator on the right-hand side of the equation. Therefore any increase in the pipe size will reduce the friction loss if all other
factors remain the same. If the diameters double, the friction loss will be reduced by almost a factor of 1/32 likewise if the pipe diameter
is tripled The friction loss would be reduced to about 1/243 of its original value.
Roughness Coefficient
Table 22.4.4.7 Hazen-Williams C Values
Pipe or Tube C Value
Unlined cast or ductile iron 100
Black steel (dry systems including pre-action) 100
Black steel (wet systems including deluge) 120
Galvanized (all) 120
Plastic (listed, all) 150
Cement-lined cast or ductile iron 140
Copper tube or stainless steel 150
Asbestos cement 140
Concrete 140
Inside Diameters (di)
List for steel and copper in Table A.6.3.2 and Table A.6.3.5
Nominal Schedule Schedule Type K CPVC*
Pipe Size 40 10 Copper
1-inch 1.049 1.097 0.995 1.101
1 ¼-inch 1.380 1.442 1.245 1.394
1 ½-inch 1.610 1.682 1.481 1.598
2-inch 2.067 2.157 1.959 2.003
2 ½-inch 2.469 2.635 2.435 2.423
3-inch 3.068 3.260 2.907 2.95
4-inch 4.026 4.260 3.857 N/A
Hazen-Williams Example
If a pressure gage is reading 40 psi at one end of a 32-foot section of 2-
inch schedule 40 pipe (C = 120) flowing at 110 gpm, what will a gage at
the other end read?
40 ?
2-inch schedule 40 pipe
32 ft
1.85 1.85
4.52Q 4.52(110gpm)
PL = 1.85 4.87 = 1.85 4.87
C di (120) (2.067in)
PL= 0.112 psi/ft

Hazen-Williams Example (continued)
• What will a gage at the other end read?

40 ?
2-inch schedule 40 pipe

32 ft
• PL = 0.112 psi/ft
• Friction Loss = 0.112 psi/ft x 32 ft = 3.6 psi
• Gage Pressure = 40 psi – 3.6 psi  36 psi

Fittings
• Energy losses through fittings are caused by turbulence in the water
• To determine losses through fittings “equivalent length” is used
• NFPA has a table to provide equivalent pipe lengths
• Table is based on schedule 40 steel in a wet pipe system with C Values
of 120.

Equivalent Length Chart
Fittings & Valves Fittings & Valves Expressed in Equivalent Feet of Pipe
1¼
¾ in 1 in 1 ½ in 2 in 2 ½ in 3 in 3 ½ in 4 in 5 in 6 in 8 in 10 in 12 in
in
45° Elbow 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 3 4 5 7 9 11 12
90° Standard
2 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10 12 14 18 22 27
Elbow
90° Long Turn

1 2 2 2 3 4 5 5 6 8 9 13 16 18
Elbow
Tee/Cross 3 5 6 8 10 12 15 17 20 25 30 25 50 60
Butterfly Valve - - - - 6 7 10 - 12 9 10 12 19 21
Gate Valve - - - - 1 1 1 1 2 2 3 4 5 6
Swing Check - 5 7 9 11 14 16 19 22 27 32 45 55 65
Adjusting Equivalent Lengths
• NFPA 13 table is based on schedule 40 steel pipe for a wet system
• All others need to be adjusted for:
• Change in pipe material
• C-factor other than 120
• Change in interior diameter
• Other than those for schedule 40 steel

Adjusting for C-Factor
Table 22.4.3.2.1 C Value Multiplier

Value of C 100 130 140 150
Multiplying
0.713 1.16 1.33 1.51
Factor
• Begin with the equivalent length value from the table
• Multiply the length by the factor above for the
appropriate C-factor

Adjusting for Inside Diameter
4.87
 Actual inside diameter 
Factor =  
 Schedule 40 Steel Pipe inside diameter 
• Begin with the equivalent length value from the table
• Multiply the length by the factor above calculated for
the inside diameter of the pipe being used

Fittings (continued)
• All fittings must be accounted for in the calculations

• Including tees, elbows, valves, etc.
• Some may have pressure loss or equivalent length values from manufacturer’s
listing information
• Special provisions:
• Fittings connected directly to sprinklers
• Fittings where water flows straight through without changing direction

Equivalent Length Exercise
• What is the equivalent pipe length of Type K copper tube which used
for a 3-inch standard turn 90-degree elbow?

Equivalent Length Exercise Solution
• NFPA 13 Table 23.4.3.1.1 :
• 3-inch 90-degree elbow = 7 ft of pipe
• Adjustments are needed for:
• Type K Copper
• Interior diameter

(continued)
• Adjustment for material (C-factor)
• Copper has a C-Factor of 150
• Per Table 22.4.3.2.1: Multiplier = 1.51
• Adjustment for inside diameter
• 3-inch copper has an inside diameter of 2.907-inch
4.87
 
4.87
Actual i.d.  2.907 
Factor =   =  = 0.77
 Schedule 40 Steel Pipe i.d.   3.068 
(continued)
• Apply the factors:
• Equivalent pipe length per Table 22.4.3.1.1 = 7 ft
• Adjustment for C-factor = 1.51
• Adjustment for diameter = 0.77
• The equivalent length for a 3-inch Type K Copper standard turn elbow
is:
7 ft x 1.51 x 0.77 = 8.14 ft

Hydraulic Calculation
Principles

Design Elements

Design Elements- System Layout

Tree System
Cross Main
Riser
Branch lines and sprinklers are
fed from only one direction

Grid System
Allows smaller cross mains and

branch lines since each sprinkler
is fed by at least two paths.

Design Elements- System Layout –
Loop System
Allows smaller cross mains

because each branch line is fed
from two directions.
Hydraulic Calculation Method
The Layout Process
1. Define the Hazard
2. Analyze the Structure
3. Analyze the Water Supply
4. Select the Type of System
5. Select the Sprinkler Type(s) and Locate Them
6. Arrange the Piping
7. Arrange Hangers and Bracing (where needed)
8. Include System Attachments
9. Hydraulic Calculations
10. Notes and Details for Plans
11. As-Built Drawings

Density/Area Method
• Density is the flow of water that lands in a single square foot under
the sprinkler
• Measured in flow divided by unit area
• English units: gpm/ft2
• Flow required from a sprinkler is calculated by multiplying selected
density by the coverage area

Density/Area Curves

Density/Area Example 1
• A sprinkler system has been installed with standard spray sprinklers
spaced 10 feet by 11 feet 6 inches apart. If this is an Ordinary Hazard
Group 2 occupancy and the discharge density is 0.2 gpm/ft2, what is
the minimum required flow from a sprinkler?
• Coverage Area:
A = 10 ft x 11.5 ft = 115 ft2
• Density times area equals flow:
0.2 gpm/ft2 x 115 ft2 = 23 gpm

Density/Area Method (continued)
• Fire Rectangle: “…the design 1.2 Design_ Area

area shall be a rectangular
area having a dimension
parallel to the branch lines at
least 1.2 times the square
root of the area of sprinkler
operation used…”
• Different remote area
geometry may be required
by other authorities.

Density/Area Curves
• Total Number of Sprinklers to Calculate
• Design Area ÷ Area Per Sprinkler
• Number of Sprinklers per Branch Line
1.2 Design Area

S
Where:
S is the distance between sprinklers on the branch line

Density/Area Example 2
• The sprinkler system in an OH2 occupancy has a discharge density of 0.2
gpm/ft2 over 1500 ft2 (selected from Figure 11.2.3.1.1), each sprinkler covers 115 ft2,
how many sprinklers will be in the design area?
1500 ft2 ÷ 115 ft2 = 13.04
14 sprinklers
• If sprinklers along the branch line are 10 ft apart, how many sprinklers/line
are calculated?
2
1.2 1500ft
= 4.65  5 sprinkler/line
10ft
Density/Area Example 2 (continued)
Which sprinklers on the 3rd line should be added?
E 10 5
D 9 4
C 8 3
B 7 2
A 6 1
Area Adjustments
• Dry-Pipe Systems
• Increase area 30% (Section 11.2.3.2.5)
• Double Interlock Pre-action Systems
• Increase Area 30% (Section 11.2.3.2.5)
• Extra Hazard Occupancy with High Temperature Sprinklers
• Decrease Area 25%, but minimum of 2000 ft2 (Section 11.2.3.2.6)

Area Adjustments (continued)
• Quick Response Sprinklers (11.2.3.2.3)

• Area of operation can be reduced 25 to 40% depending on ceiling height
when:
• Wet pipe system only
• Light or ordinary hazards
• 20 ft maximum ceiling height
• No unprotected ceiling pockets
• No less than 5 sprinklers in design area
• Area may be less than 1500 ft2

Quick Response Area Adjustment
Ceiling Height (ft) v. % • Ceiling Height <10 ft

Reduction
• Reduction is 40%
40
35 • Between 10 and 20 ft
30 • Y = (-3x/2)+55
25 • Ceiling Height is 20 ft
20 • Reduction is 25%
15
10
• Over 20 ft Ceiling Height
5
• No reduction allowed
0
0 5 10 15 20

Area Adjustments (continued)
• Sloped Ceilings
• Area of operation is increased by 30% if pitch exceeds 2 in 12 (rise in run). This is
an angle of 9.46°
rise
run
Multiple Adjustments Example 1
• Compound adjustments based on original area of operation selected
from Figure 11.2.3.1.1.
• Dry-pipe system installed under slope of 4 in 12
• 30% increase for dry system
• 30% increase for slope
• Using 1500 ft2 as the selected operation area
• 1500 ft2 x 1.3 x 1.3 = 2535 ft2 design area
• There is no change in the density.

Multiple Adjustments Example 2
• Compound adjustments based on original area of operation selected
from Figure 11.2.3.1.1.
• QR sprinklers under 3 in 12 slope, ceiling height is 20 ft
• 25% decrease for ceiling height
• 30% increase for slope
• Using 1500 ft2 as the operation area
• 1500 ft2 x 0.75 x 1.3 = 1463 ft2 design area
• There is no change in density.

Why examine only the most remote
area?
The logic of examining only the set number of heads at the most
remote portion of the building is as follows:
Keeping pipe diameters and minimum water flow requirements the same
throughout the building, because of physics and hydraulics, if the minimum
required water pressure and gpm are met at the most remote section of the
building, as you move closer to the riser, water pressure and gpm will
automatically be greater

City Water Mains
• Information from the local water authority
• Flow testing near the site
• Need the following information:
• Static Pressure
• Residual Pressure
• Residual Flow

Water Supply Summary
• If the system demand is NOT within the capacity of the water supply,
alterations are need to the supply or to the system
• If the supply is too low on flow:
• arrange a secondary water source (e.g. tank, lake, pond, etc.)
• If the supply is too low on pressure:
• install a fire pump
• use larger pipe to reduce friction loss
• maintain higher water level in an elevated tank
• install tank at higher elevation

Step-by-Step Calculations
1. Identify hazard category
2. Determine sprinkler spacing
3. Determine piping arrangement
4. Calculate amount of water needed per sprinkler
5. Calculate number and location of open sprinklers in the
hydraulically most demanding area
6. Start at most remote sprinkler and work towards the water supply
calculating flows and pressures
7. Compare demand with supply
Example
• Ordinary Hazard Group 2 occupancy
• 12 ft ceiling height
• Quick Response standard spray sprinklers with a k-factor of 5.6
• Wet pipe sprinkler system
• Sprinklers on 10 ft x 12.5 ft spacing

Example: Plan View
123 ft
5 ft
10 ft
38 ft
80 ft
12.5 ft
5.5 ft
5 ft
5 ft
Example (continued)
1. Select hazard category: OH2

2. Determine sprinkler spacing: 10 ft x 12.5 ft
3. Determine piping arrangement: Done
4. Calculate amount of water per sprinkler
a) Select Density/Area Method
b) Pick point from density/area curve: 0.2 gpm/ft2 over 1500 ft2
c) 0.2 gpm/ft2 x 125 ft2 = 25 gpm/sprinkler

Example (continued)
1. Select hazard category: OH2

2. Determine sprinkler spacing: 10 ft x 12.5 ft
3. Determine piping arrangement: Done
4. Calculate amount of water per sprinkler: 25 gpm
5. Calculate number & location of open sprinklers
a) Area Adjustment(s):
QR Reduction: % = (-3x/2) + 55 = [-3(12)/2] + 55 = 37%
1500 ft2 x 0.63 = 945 ft2
b) 945 ft2 ÷ 125 ft2 per sprinkler = 7.56 = 8 sprinklers
c) 1.2(945)0.5/10 = 3.7 = 4 sprinklers per branch line

Example: Hydraulic Remote Area
123 ft
5 ft
10 ft
38 ft
80 ft
12.5 ft
5.5 ft
5 ft
5 ft
Determine the Starting Pressure
• Most remote sprinkler needs 25 gpm
• Sprinkler k = 5.6
2 2
 Q   25 
P=  =  = 19.9psi
 k   5.6 
• Starting information for the first sprinkler:
• 25 gpm at 19.9 psi
• Next work back to the water supply adding pressure
losses and flows throughout the system

Information Needed for Calculations
• Select initial pipe sizes
• Locate nodes on all places where:
a. Flow (Q) takes place,
b. Type of pipe or system changes (C), and
c. Diameter (di) changes.
• Layout calculation paths starting with primary path then attachment
paths
• Fill in hydraulic calculation sheets

Hydraulic Calculation Paths
Locate the system nodes:
5 ft
10 ft
38 ft
BL1 BL2
TOR
4 8
12.5 ft
3 7
5.5 ft
2 6
5 ft
1 5 5 ft
Full System Hydraulic Calculation
• An electronics factory is being built.
• Water supply tests were done near the site and produced the
following information:
• Static pressure = 90 psi
• Residual pressure = 60 psi
• Flow at 60 psi = 1000 gpm

The Layout Process
Identify the Hazard
• In accordance with NFPA 13 hazard classifications, an electronics
factory is classified as an Ordinary Hazard Group I occupancy.

The Layout Process
completed
Available Water Supply
Water Supply
120
Flow Test
110 Summary Sheet
90 psi static
100
pressure
90
80
60 psi residual
70 pressure at 1000 gpm
Pressure (psi)
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100
Flow (gpm)
The Layout Process
System Details
• Type of System:
• Wet pipe system
• Type of Sprinkler: TY3121
• Standard spray quick response upright sprinkler with a K-factor of 5.6
• Typical Sprinkler Spacing:
• Sprinklers are 10 ft apart on the branch lines, and 12.5 ft between branch
lines

Electronics Factory Plan View
N
5 ft from north wall and 6 ft from west wall
10 ft 12.5
ft
53 ft
Mains are
Schedule 10
100 ft
Branch lines are

Schedule 40 5 ft from south wall and
6.5 ft from east wall
200 ft
Electronics Factory Elevation View
Riser is 1 ft away from

the east wall.
3-inch All branch lines
Schedule 10 are on a 1 ft Alarm Check Valve –
15 ft
18 ft
12.5 ft between riser nipple Viking J-1

branch lines
N
Gate Valve
5 ft
4-inch PVC
(ID – 4.240 inches)
7 ft
Long Turn
Elbow 42 ft

Electronics Factory Isometric View
1-inch
1 ¼-inch
1 ¼-inch
1 ½-inch
1 ½-inch 1 ft riser nipple
1 ½-inch
main and riser

3-inch
15 ft
N
Underground
4-inch PVC

The Layout Process
Select a Design Approach
• Use the density/area method
• A point from the density/area curves need to be selected

Check for Area Adjustments
• Quick response sprinklers (in light hazard or ordinary hazard with wet
pipe system, reduce design area based on maximum ceiling height,
where it is less than 20 ft)
• Original design area, from the area/density curve, is 1500 ft2.
• Wet pipe system, ordinary hazard, and a ceiling height of 18 ft

Area Reduction For QR Sprinklers
Ceiling Height (ft) v. % • y = % reduction in area

Reduction • x = ceiling height
40
35
- 3x
30 y= + 55
25 2
20 − 3(18)
15
y= + 55
2
10
− 54
5
y= + 55 = 28%
0 2
0 5 10 15 20

Design Area (continued)
• Starting with 1500 ft2 design area

• Applying the 28% reduction in area:
100% - 28% = 72%

1500 ft2 * 0.72 = 1080 ft2
• New design area is 1080 ft2

• Density remains at 0.15 gpm/ft2

Design Area (continued)
• Design area is 1080 ft2

• Each sprinkler, spaced 10 ft x 12.5 ft, is covering 125 ft2
• How many sprinklers are in the design area?
• 1080 / 125 = 8.64 sprinklers = 9 sprinklers

Forming the Design Area
1.2 Design Area
parallel to the branch lines
2
1.2 1080 ft
= 3.94  4 sprinklers
10 ft
• Continue to add branch lines until 9 sprinklers are
included

Remote Area N
1 5
2 6
3 7
53 ft
4 8 9 Mains are
Schedule 10
100 ft
12.5 Branch lines are

10 ft
ft Schedule 40
200 ft
completed
1. Select initial pipe sizes
2. Locate nodes on all places where:
a) Flow (Q) takes place,
b) Type of pipe or system changes (C), and
c) Diameter (di) changes.
3. Layout calculation paths starting with primary path then
attachment paths
4. Fill in hydraulic calculation sheets

Node Locations - Isometric
1-inch 15
1 ¼-inch 26
1 ¼-inch 37
1 ½-inch 4 89
1 ½-inch 1 ft riser nipple
1 ½-inch
TOR
main and riser
3-inch
15 ft
N
FF
Underground
4-inch PVC

• Select initial pipe sizes
• Locate nodes on all places where:
• Flow (Q) takes place,
• Type of pipe or system changes (C), and
• Diameter (di) changes.
• Layout calculation paths starting with primary path then attachment
paths
• Fill in hydraulic calculation sheets

Balancing Flows

Obstruction Rules
1. The Beam Rule

2. The Three Time Rule
3. The Four foot & wide obstruction Rule
CFI-1 Exam Preparation- Mehboob Shaikh(CFPS, CFI, AMIE) 211

Obstruction Rules
The Beam Rule :

B
In short the “beam rule” states that there must be
at least 1 foot (0.3048 m)of separation between the
sprinkler and the obstruction if the deflector is any
distance above the bottom of the obstruction. D A
As the distance (A) increases from the sprinkler to
the obstruction the greater the Allowable distance
from the deflector to the bottom of the obstruction
(B)
Spray Umbrella should clear the beam.

Obstruction Rules
The Beam Rule :
D A
The distances specified in Table 8.6.5.1.2 outline the discharge pattern

of the sprinkler and define how far away from a building element a
sprinkler must be positioned to allow the sprinkler discharge to extend
underneath the building element rather than to hit it.
These distances are based on the discharge patterns of typical standard
spray upright and pendent sprinklers at pressures from 15 psi to 100 psi
(1 bar to 7 bar).
Spray Umbrella should clear the beam.
Obstruction Rules
The Three Time Rule :

It states that unless specific requirements are met
“sprinklers shall be positioned away from
obstructions a minimum distance of three times the
maximum dimensions of the obstruction”, up to a
maximum of 24 inches (0.6096 m) though the
“maximum clear distance does not apply to
obstructions in the vertical orientation
This rule have been written to apply to obstructions where the A
sprinkler can be expected to get water to both sides of the
obstruction without allowing a significant dry shadow on the
other side of the obstruction
This works for small non-continuous obstructions and for
continuous obstructions where the sprinkler can throw water A >= 3C or 3D C
over and under the obstruction, such as the bottom chord of an
open truss or joist. For solid continuous obstructions, such as a A ≤ 24 in. (610 mm) D
beam, the Three Times Rule is ineffective since the sprinkler
cannot throw water over and under the obstruction (Use dimension C or D, whichever is greater)
Obstruction Rules
The Four-Foot and Wide Obstruction Rule
The “Four Times Rule” is really just an extension of the “three times rule” however
it covers extended coverage sprinklers and the maximum clearance is 36 inches
(0.9144 m).
For obstructions wider than 4 feet (1.2192 m), sprinkler protection is required
below the obstruction with deflectors to be located less than 12 inches (0.3048 m)
from the bottom of the obstruction.
For obstructions less than 4 feet (1.2192 m) in width sprinklers may not be required
underneath the obstruction

8.6.5 – Obstruction to Sprinkler Discharge
Ceiling
Not to exceed max. specified for type

of construction ( Obstructed &
Beam Unobstructed).
Max. Distance of deflector

above bottom of beam.
Distance from near side of the
beam.

8.6.5 – Obstruction to Sprinkler Discharge
Ceiling
Min. Vertical Distance
Divider ( Privacy Curtain)
Horizontal Distance

8.6.5- SSP and SSU – Non Storage
Less than 12 Inch
0 Inch Minimum Horizontal Distance From Sprinkler to
84 Inch Avoid Obstructing Umbrella Pattern.
0 Inch
Sprinkler Deflector.
Ceiling Object Located Below
Maximum Vertical Distance of
Obstruction are not permitted to
cross from shaded area into this
area
35 Inch

8.7.5 - Standard Coverage Sidewall – Non Storage
4 ft.(min)

102 inch. Avoid Obstructing Umbrella Pattern
1 inch.
area
14 Inch.

8.8.5- SSP and SSU EC – Non Storage
Less than 12 Inch
0 Inch
Deflector.
Object Located Below Sprinkler
Maximum Vertical Distance of Ceiling
area
21 Inch

8.9.5 - Extended Coverage Sidewall – Non Storage
8 ft.(min)

1 inch.
area
14 Inch.

8.10.6- Residential Pendant and upright–
Non Storage
Less than 12 Inch
0 Inch
Deflector.
area
14 Inch

8.10.7 – Residential Sidewall – Non Storage
8 ft.(min)

1 inch.
area
14 Inch.

8.11.5- CMSA Sprinklers
Less than 12 Inch
0 Inch
Deflector.
area
31 Inch

8.12.5- ESFR Sprinklers
Less than 12 Inch
0 Inch
Deflector.
area
31 Inch

COMPARISON
226
Thank You


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FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.

Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FACTORY/INDS F-1 Factory Industrial, Moderate Hazard I- Industrial, General

EDUFIRE.IR FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE) Telegram: EDUFIRE.IR

EDUFIRE.IR FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE) Telegram: EDUFIRE.IR

IBC 2018 CH. 04 , HIGH RISE BUILDING

NFPA 101, 2009,CH. 12 , ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCIES

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

The Hierarchy of Reference Documents

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

1. It delivers water to the burning

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

❑ A fire sprinkler system is an ACTIVE fire protection measure, consisting of

❑ Sprinkler systems have been around since the late 1880’s,

❑ In 1874, H.S. Pamelee patented the first practical automatic sprinkler,

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

Not all pipe or tubing that meets these

****If listed materials differ from Table 7.3.1.1,

The pipe schedule or type indicates the thickness of the

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

❑ Post Indicator Valve (PIV)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

❑ Wall Post Indicator Valve

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

▪ warn of water movement in system,

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

Once activated, a sprinkler head develops a water spray pattern

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

❑ Sprinkler heads are the key components of the system,

▪ Heads must be suitable in design, performance, application and temperature for

▪ Side wall heads may be pendent, upright, or horizontal,

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)

❑ The typical sprinkler head is activated by heat (temperature),

▪ opens when a triggering action occurs,

FF Design- Mehboob Shaikh(B.Eng,CFPS, CFI, AMIE)