Understand how sprinklers work becomes very important, especially for building owners, facility managers, or anyone who cares about building safety.
Sprinkler systems are one of the most common automatic fire extinguishing solutions used in various types of buildings, from offices, hospitals, shopping centers to high-rise buildings.
Its advantage lies in its ability to detect fires independently and react quickly before the fire spreads widely.
So, how sprinklers work actually to protect buildings from fire?
How Sprinklers Work in Fire Fighting
Sprinkler systems are designed to detect high temperatures in a specific area and respond automatically by spraying water directly at the source of the fire. It’s not just about spraying water; it’s about precision, speed, and effectiveness in controlling fires from the start.
How Sprinklers Work – Heat Detection Not Smoke
Unlike conventional fire alarms, which respond to smoke, sprinklers operate by detecting heat. Each sprinkler head is equipped with a small glass bulb filled with a temperature-sensitive fluid.
When the surrounding air temperature reaches a certain threshold (typically between 68°C and 74°C), the liquid expands, causing the glass bulb to shatter. This process opens the valve on the sprinkler head and triggers the water spray.
How Sprinklers Work – Sprinkler Head Activation Mechanism
When the glass bulb shatters due to high temperatures, the sprinkler valve opens, allowing water to immediately flow from the pipe system. In a wet pipe system, water is already present in the pipe and ready to spray at any time.
Meanwhile, in a dry pipe, the pipe contains pressurized air and water only flows when the air is released due to heat, opening the valve and allowing water to reach the sprinkler head.
This activation is localized: only the sprinkler head that detects high heat is activated. This allows for targeted extinguishing without wetting the entire building, except in special systems such as deluge systems.
Water Flow from Pipe to Fire Point
Water is channeled from a main source (usually a water tank or reservoir) through a network of pipes designed to withstand pressure and corrosion. Once the valve on the sprinkler head opens, pressurized water is sprayed directly onto the burning area.
This process occurs in a matter of seconds and aims to extinguish or at least control the fire so that it does not spread.
Why Are Sprinkler Systems Effective for Building Protection?
Sprinkler technology isn’t just about automation, but also about efficiency in protecting building assets and the safety of building occupants. Here are some reasons why this system is highly recommended:
Early Extinguishing Before the Fire Spreads
Because this system quickly detects heat and directs water directly to the fire’s source, it can extinguish the fire before it spreads to other areas. This significantly reduces the potential for structural damage and protects the building’s contents.
Fast and Independent Reaction
One of the main advantages of a sprinkler system is its automatic response, requiring no human intervention. In an emergency, the system activates within seconds of detecting a fire temperature high, even when the building is empty or unattended.
Supporting Safety Standards Compliance
Many building safety regulations now require the installation of sprinkler systems, especially for high-rise buildings, public facilities, or industries with a high fire risk.
Installing this system can increase the overall value and security of a property, as well as assist building owners in complying with applicable legal requirements.
In general, sprinkler operation relies heavily on detecting heat, which triggers the glass bulb in the sprinkler head to shatter. Once activated, water flows through the piping system and is sprayed directly onto the fire.
This process is automatic, fast, and accurate so it is very effective in preventing the spread of fire and minimizing damage.
To ensure optimal performance of this system, it’s crucial to partner with a trusted fire protection contractor. Adiwarna is a professional partner in the installation and maintenance of sprinkler systems, helping you build a safer environment that meets the latest fire safety standards.
