Thoughts on Fire Blog

Quick response and standard response fire sprinklers

#460 – How Can the Same Fire Sprinkler Be Quick and Standard Response?

January 24, 2025September 11, 2024

Some fire sprinklers can be rated quick and standard response despite having the same physically designed thermal sensitivity. Learn why!

#459 – BlazeMaster CPVC vs FlameGuard CPVC: The Differences

January 24, 2025August 28, 2024

FlameGuard and BlazeMaster CPVC pipe are both listed for fire protection use, so how different are they? Dive into their specs to see which orange pipe is on top!

SDR pipe measurements fire sprinkler pipe

#458 – What Are SDR Pipe Measurements in CPVC Fire Sprinkler Pipe?

January 24, 2025August 14, 2024

CPVC fire sprinkler pipe must be listed and use standard dimension ratio units rather than schedule. Learn about SDR pipe measurements and more!

#457 – Hydraulic Design Information Sign for Fire Sprinklers: A Guide

January 24, 2025July 31, 2024

NFPA 13 and 25 require hydraulic design information signs on fire sprinkler systems. Here’s a review of why, the rules, and a sample sign.

#456 – How to Protect Gauges from Overpressure and Damage

January 24, 2025July 17, 2024

Pressure spikes can damage these devices in fire protection systems and other applications—here’s why, and how to prevent pressure gauge overpressure Pressure gauges are essential for monitoring the status of fire sprinkler systems, standpipes, and … Read more

#455 – Fusible link sprinkler head vs glass bulb sprinkler: the differences

January 24, 2025July 3, 2024

Fusible link fire sprinkler heads and glass bulb sprinklers are extremely similar, but some considerations exist. Learn the differences and when they matter.

#454 – Sprinkler Showdown: VK3001 vs TY313 vs V2704 vs RA1425

January 24, 2025June 19, 2024

How can you choose between quick-response, standard coverage, 5.6K upright sprinklers? QRFS referees a showdown between Viking, Tyco, Victaulic, and Reliable.

Why you can't install dry sprinklers in mechanical tees

#453 – Why You Can’t Install Dry Sprinklers with Mechanical Tees, Elbows & More

January 24, 2025June 6, 2024

Dry sprinklers can only be installed in specific fittings. Here’s a guide to the NFPA and manufacturer rules for appropriate installations.

#452 – How to Understand Tee Sizes: Mechanical, Straight & Reducing Tees

January 24, 2025May 22, 2024

Pipe tees can have three openings—and they can be different sizes and connection types. Here’s how to understand sizing for reducing tees, straight tees, and mechanical tees.

#451 – BSPT vs NPT Fire Sprinkler Head Sizes: Know the Difference

January 24, 2025May 8, 2024

BSPT vs NPT standards for tapered pipe threads govern fire sprinkler sizes. Learn about the differences, where each is used, and how to get the right part.