A wet sprinkler system is a type of fire protection system commonly used in buildings and facilities. It consists of a network of pipes filled with water under pressure and sprinkler heads strategically placed throughout the building.
Here’s how it works:
- Water Supply: The system is connected to a reliable water supply, typically the municipal water system or a dedicated water tank and pump.
- Pressure Maintenance: The water in the pipes is maintained under pressure to ensure immediate discharge when a sprinkler head activates.
- Activation: Each sprinkler head is equipped with a heat-sensitive element that triggers the release of water when exposed to a certain temperature, usually around 155-165°F (68-74°C).
- Sprinkler Operation: When a fire occurs, the heat from the flames raises the temperature in the vicinity of the sprinkler head. If the temperature reaches the activation point, the heat-sensitive element ruptures, allowing water to flow out of the sprinkler head.
- Water Distribution: The water is distributed in a spray pattern designed to suppress or extinguish the fire and prevent its spread to other areas of the building.
- Alarm: In many cases, the activation of a sprinkler head also triggers an alarm to alert occupants and emergency responders to the presence of a fire.
Wet sprinkler systems are effective for controlling small fires and preventing them from growing into larger, more dangerous fires. They are commonly used in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings where rapid fire response is essential for life safety and property protection.
