What are the Different Types of Fire Sprinkler Heads

Fire sprinkler heads are an essential component of fire suppression systems. They are designed to detect and extinguish fires quickly in order to minimize damage and save lives. There are several types of fire sprinkler heads available, each designed to meet specific fire suppression needs. In this article, we will briefly discuss the different types of fire sprinkler heads.

1. Conventional Spray Sprinkler Head:

This is the most commonly used type of fire sprinkler head. This is designed to spray water over a wide area to extinguish flames. This type of sprinkler head is available in a range of sizes, which allows them to be used in various settings. Conventional spray heads are typically installed in commercial or industrial settings, where the fire load is significant.

2. Deluge Sprinkler Head:

This type of sprinkler head is designed for use in high-hazard environments such as chemical plants or oil refineries. Deluge sprinkler heads are designed to release a high volume of water rapidly over a large area. They are activated by a remote control system and are typically used to suppress fires that occur at high risk locations such as chemical storage areas.

3. Dry-pipe Sprinkler Head:

This type of sprinkler head is designed to be used in areas where temperatures can drop below freezing. Dry-pipe sprinkler heads are connected to a network of pipes that are filled with compressed air or nitrogen rather than water. When a fire is detected, the air or nitrogen is released, causing the water to flow through the pipes and onto the fire.

4. Pre-action Sprinkler Head:

Pre-action sprinkler heads are designed to be used in areas where there is a high risk of accidental activation of the sprinkler system. This type of sprinkler head requires two independent triggers before it will release water. The first trigger activates the sprinkler head and fills the pipes with water. The second trigger then releases the water onto the fire.

5. Early Suppression Fast Response (ESFR) Sprinkler Head:

This type of sprinkler head is designed to be used in warehouses or other high-ceiling buildings. ESFR sprinkler heads are larger and capable of releasing up to 100 gallons of water per minute. They are designed to activate quickly and suppress high-intensity fires at the early stages, thereby minimizing damage and risks.

In conclusion, selecting the right type of sprinkler head is critical to ensure that your fire suppression system is optimized for your unique fire risks. The different types of fire sprinkler heads each have their unique characteristics and benefits, making them suitable for specific applications. Consulting with a fire protection professional can help ensure that the appropriate sprinkler head is selected for your facility.