Dry Fire Detection Systems: A Guide
If you need to install a fire detection and sprinkler system in an area of your business which is subject to low temperatures, standard systems cannot be used. This is because the low temperatures can cause the water held within the sprinkler system to expand, cracking and busting open the pipework. Thankfully, a dry fire detection system can be used instead. Read on to find out everything you need to know about this type of technology.
How does dry fire protection work?
Dry fire protection differs from standard sprinkler systems in one important way - the system does not hold any water within it until the moment when a blaze is detected by the fire alarm system. A dry fire sprinkler system is pressurised with air. The pressure created by this air trapped within the network of pipes helps to keep a series of valves shut. These valves keep the water from entering the pipes until it is needed in the event of a fire. When a fire is detected and the sprinkler is activated, the air is released from the pipe and the valves open, releasing water into the system and out of the sprinkler onto the fire.
Where should a dry fire system be used?
Dry fire systems should be installed in any area which could experience low temperatures. For example, you may want to think about installing such a system in the following areas:
- Loading bays
- Unheated garages
- Garden work sheds
- Unheated storage areas
- Refrigerated units
How do you maintain a dry fire protection system?
​Maintenance is an important aspect of any dry fire protection. The primary thing you need to worry about is condensation. Following installation, you will periodically need to test the system. When testing the system, water will enter the pipes which are normally filled with compressed air. This water can be drained using taps on the pipes. However, even when the water has been drained, it is likely that some moisture will remain as humidity in the air. As time passes, this water can accumulate within the system of pipes. Accumulated water can cause corrosion and damage to the system. Therefore, it is best to open the drains on the system every so often to allow any trapped water out.
If you are interested in finding out more about the installation and maintenance of dry fire detection systems, you should get in touch with a local fire protection company today.
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