PEX tube has been approved for use in wet fire sprinklers, in both multipurpose and standalone systems — but can PEX be used in dry or preaction systems? QRFS answers a question posed by a reader — and gets a ruling directly from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
Escutcheons that surround fire sprinkler heads are not just decorative — they prevent smoke and heat from escaping into a wall or ceiling and NFPA requires that you replace damaged or missing escutcheons. QRFS explains how to size an escutcheon to make sure a replacement matches your fire sprinkler.
Regular inspections are required to keep commercial fire sprinkler systems working and up to code. In the second installment of a series, QRFS explains the steps involved in the annual visual inspection of fire sprinkler pipe and fittings, plus how to classify any issues that are found.
Fire Department Connections and their replacement parts must be compatible with the specific hoses and connections used by your local fire department. QRFS explains how to determine the size and thread for your FDC and its components.
Regular inspections are required to keep commercial fire sprinkler systems working and up to code. In the first part of this series, QRFS explains the steps involved in the annual visual inspection of fire sprinkler heads.
Working Fire Department Connections (FDCs) are essential for many standpipe systems, and a broken or missing swivel means firefighters won’t have access to the water supply during a fire. QRFS looks at options for replacing a fire department connection swivels, plus how to install the part.
CPVC and PEX have become extremely popular, safety-approved pipe materials in home fire sprinkler systems. Both are easier and less expensive to install than metallic pipe and have better performance characteristics. But which of the two thermoplastics is better? QRFS attempts to answer this excellent question.
Tamper-resistant fire sprinklers are essential in prisons, jails, mental health facilities, and other secured environments. QRFS explains how institutional fire sprinkler heads can help prevent vandalism, suicide, accidental discharges and other incidents that involve tampering with an automatic fire safety system.
After a series of incidents in which antifreeze ignited after sprinklers deployed during a fire, NFPA investigated and began issuing new guidelines for its use in 2010. QRFS explains the current status of using antifreeze in fire protection systems, as well as alternatives for freeze protection.
Cleanrooms that are used in manufacturing, research, and medical facilities require fire sprinkler systems that are easy to clean without damaging the sprinkler heads. QRFS details the benefits of fire sprinkler cover plates in cleanrooms and other highly-sanitary environments.
