what is pre-action fire sprinkler system

A pre-action fire sprinkler system is a type of fire suppression system that combines elements of both dry and wet pipe systems. This system is specialized for environments where fire damage can be especially catastrophic, such as data centers, museums, and large commercial buildings.

Unlike a traditional wet pipe system which constantly has water held inside the pipes, a pre-action system only allows water to enter the pipes when a fire has been detected, preventing accidental water damage. The system is activated via a detection system that can sense both heat and smoke. Once a fire has been detected, the pre-action valve opens and water flows into the sprinkler system. Only the sprinkler heads in the proximity of the fire will release water, limiting water damage to the affected area.

In addition to reducing the risk of water damage, pre-action systems can also be designed with a double interlock feature for added security. This means that not only must a fire be detected before water is released, but a second signal such as manual activation or heat detection must also be triggered before water can enter the system.

Overall, pre-action fire sprinkler systems offer a highly effective and specialized approach to fire suppression, providing both protection from fire damage and minimizing potential water damage.