Thoughts on Fire Blog

#84 – What is Hydrostatic Testing of a Building’s Fire Protection System?

February 14, 2023November 23, 2017

Learn how and when hydrostatic testing is conducted on standpipes and fire sprinkler systems, as well as special considerations and the equipment used.

#83 – Guide to Trim Valves for Fire Protection: Three-way, Angle, In-Line Check, Swing Check, Pressure Relief & Globe Valves

February 10, 2023November 16, 2017

In fire sprinkler and standpipe systems, trim valves help make inspection, monitoring, and testing simpler. QRFS looks at trim valves for fire protection, providing an overview of what they are, how they function, and what the NFPA says about these helpful devices.

Three threaded aluminum hose couplings with pin lug swivels

#82 – Common Types of Threads Used in Fire Hose and Fire Department Connections: NPT, NST, and More!

July 8, 2024November 9, 2017

In this article, we dive into thread standards and thread sizing. Travel back into history to gain a better understanding of thread sizes, learn what standards are used today, and find out what solutions are available to ensure you get the right threads for your fire protection job.

The benefits of plastic fire extinguisher cabinets include clear labeling, UV-inhibiting front panels, and a pitched roof.

#81 – Uses and Benefits of Plastic Fire Extinguisher Cabinets

March 4, 2022November 2, 2017

This article explains the features of plastic fire extinguisher cabinets, where to use them, and their benefits.

#80 – Guide to Check Valves for Fire Protection

February 9, 2023October 26, 2017

Learn how a check valve works, the types of check valves, and their benefits. Additionally, understand what components you should look for when selecting a check valve and their maintenance requirements.

#79 – A Guide to Loosening Locked-Up Valves with a Valve Wheel Wrench

February 12, 2019October 19, 2017

In this article, we’re going to teach you how to use a valve wheel wrench to loosen a difficult valve. We’ll take a look at the valve wheel wrench itself to get a better understanding of what it is and what sets it apart from other wrenches.

Flat, adjustable, and recessed fire sprinkler escutcheons.

#78 – Which Fire Sprinkler Escutcheon Do I Need?

January 25, 2022October 12, 2017

This article covers what a fire sprinkler escutcheon is, what it does, and why they’re necessary. It also explores the different types and how to replace them.

A fire sprinkler contractor inspecting a piping system

#77 – How to Select a Fire Sprinkler Contractor or Fire Protection Company

March 22, 2021October 5, 2017

Learn how local laws, personal references, and smart questions can help you choose a qualified fire sprinkler contractor or fire protection company.

#76 – Does My Pressure Gauge Need a NIST Certification?

February 18, 2019September 28, 2017

Gain a better understanding of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), their mission, and what it means for your pressure gauges. Learn what it means when a gauge has a NIST Certificate, when it’s necessary, and options for getting a certification for gauges in your current inventory.

Horizontal fire sprinkler at the end of exposed fire sprinkler system piping.

#75 – Fire Sprinkler Systems: History, Types, and Uses

February 3, 2019September 21, 2017

In this article, QRFS discusses the various types of sprinkler systems – including wet, dry, preaction, and deluge fire sprinkler systems – and their intended uses.