Deluge Sprinklers
Like sprinkler systems, the deluge system has pipes, valves and sprinklers that are designed to protect a facility. But while a deluge system can use water to fight flames, it can also use a foam concentrate that mixes with water that will help blanket hazardous materials. As its name would suggest, a deluge system is also capable of providing large volumes of water or other agents to contain a blaze.
Deluge sprinkler system for highly hazardous applications
Many industrial sites contain hazardous materials that are highly combustible and require an extra measure of protection to ensure they aren’t set off into a massive conflagration. When a fire breaks out in this situation, the traditional wet or dry pipe system won’t suppress the flames. Chemical storage facilities, refineries and power plants are good examples of where a deluge system is required to suppress emergencies and make sure they don’t spread.
Designing and engineering a deluge-type fire sprinkler system
One of the interesting and unique features of a deluge system is that the sprinkler heads are always open. The valve that releases water to the pipes and the sprinkler heads are triggered electrically, hydraulically or pneumatically, usually by a pull-down fire alarm. Your fire protection contractor needs to have vast experience in designing, engineering, building and installing this type of system, as they are unique.
Deluge fire sprinkler systems installation for industrial parks and buildings
Deluge systems stop fires that would otherwise quickly spread across a large area, quickly. Industrial parks often carry flammable liquids, which are excellent conduits for a fast fire that can become uncontainable in a matter of moments. Buildings that serve as storage areas and airplane hangars (jet fuel is highly combustible) will also be equipped with a deluge system, as these structures are at risk for fires that can get out of control in the blink of an eye.
Deluge system repair and maintenance for a variety of industries
Because some deluge systems are equipped with a foaming agent, and because the sprinklers are always open, a trusted fire protection contractor should follow regular a maintenance schedule on the deluge systems they install or look after. The alarm system must be tested regularly and the valves must also be checked to ensure they are operational at all times. Your fire protection professional should be experienced in maintaining and repairing any and all parts of your deluge system.
Difference between traditional systems
Only deluge systems feature sprinklers that lack a fusible link, meaning they are always open. When the alarm is pulled, the water (or other agents) enters the pipes and is dispatched from every sprinkler attached to the system. In some situations, water can’t be used for suppression. In these situations, large amount of gas, such as argon, carbon dioxide or nitrogen mixtures are used to displace the oxygen, giving the fire nothing to feed upon.
There is a slight similarity with pre-action systems in that the pipes are empty/devoid of water until the valve is triggered, but pre-action systems have sprinklers that require activation before they are opened, whereas a deluge system’s sprinklers are always open.
Advantages and disadvantages to using a deluge fire sprinkler system
When quick application of large volumes of water, gas or foam is required, nothing can beat a deluge system. Its biggest advantage is that will contain fires in hazardous places that would otherwise quickly spread. The disadvantage would be that should the system be called on to release all that water or foam, the cleanup process is extensive. However, this is often an afterthought because when a deluge system does its job right, it saves lives and property.
Keep your business safe with a deluge sprinkler system
When you consult with a professional like Valley Fire Protection, you’re talking to an experienced contractor that knows exactly what type of fire protection system you need for your property. If your business has hazardous materials, chemicals, explosive liquids or solids, you need a deluge system. Valley Fire Protection can design, build and install your system. We will also regularly maintain it to ensure that when you have an emergency, our system will do its job. We’ve designed and installed every type of fire protection system in buildings in many industries since the early 1970s, so contact us today and let’s figure out exactly how to keep your business safe.