fire sprinkler system design calculation

Since there is more than one route for water to reach a given point in the system, friction is reduced.

This configuration uses two main lines running parallel to each other, and smaller piping segments are connected to both. However, the main pipe returns to its starting point, completing a water loop. This configuration also has a main pipe from which all others branch out. This is similar to how a tree has a trunk from which all branches grow. They are summarized in the following table:Īs implied by its name, this configuration uses a main piping line that branches out into progressively smaller pipes, providing water for individual sprinklers and other fire protection elements. Most piping networks in fire suppression systems can be classified into three types, based on how individual pipes are arranged: tree, loop or grid. This is accounted for during the hydraulic calculation procedure, and the pressure boost is normally achieved with a fire pump or pressurized tank. When water is obtained from a static supply such as a lake or buried tank, pressure must be added to have an effective water supply for fire protection. Underground, above-ground and elevated tanks are examples of closed sources.Lakes, ponds and rivers are examples of open sources.When a municipal water supply is not available or impractical, the piping network may be designed to draw water from another source, which can be either open or closed. This information may also be publicly available from some municipal water authorities.

The piping network and its associated friction lossesĪ water flow test is often used to determine the water supply available, where a fire hydrant is opened to record pressure and flow values.

Water delivery requirements for suppression of a possible fire.

In simple terms, the hydraulic calculation procedure verifies three basic elements of a fire suppression system: Calculation procedures are established in model codes: automatic sprinkler systems are subject to NFPA 13 (National Fire Protection Association). Hydraulic calculations are a very important step when designing fire protection systems, since they ensure the flow rate established through the piping network will be enough to control fires effectively.

Fire sprinkler system design calculation