What is the Difference between Sprinklers and Fire Suppression Systems?

 

Fire Suppression Systems and Fire Sprinklers serve the same purpose — they distinguish fire as quickly as possible and save lives and property. Both of these systems are used in commercial and residential areas. And several factors have to be considered for the same. These include the size of the facility, scope, usage, fire risk factors, costs, space, occupancy, and so much more.


So, what is the most basic difference between fire sprinklers and fire suppression systems?


Well, fire sprinklers use water to destroy the flames.

Whereas, fire suppression systems use other non-water-based components to extinguish the fire.


Comparison between These Two Types of Fire Extinguishers:


Fire Sprinklers: Fire Sprinklers are water-based extinguishers. These use water pressure to distinguish fire. Fire Sprinklers get activated at the hint of a rise in temperature of the protected area. These systems are usually installed in places like schools, malls, offices, and homes.

Fire Sprinklers offer a variety of applications and are easy to install and use.


There are a variety of Fire Sprinklers discussed below:


1. Wet Pipe Sprinkler System: These types of sprinklers constantly hold water in the pipes and are promptly go off at the time when they detect a risen temperature — making them the best choice.


2. Dry Powder Sprinkler System: The pipes of these systems are filled with highly efficient, quick-acting extinguishants that are activated when high temperatures are detected in the area. These are specifically useful in environments where water is inaccessible.


3. Deluge Fire Sprinkler System: The heads of these systems are always open, and the pipes are instantly filled with water when in need. These systems are installed in hazardous places or areas that are more prone to fire.


4. Pre-Action Sprinkler System: Like dry pipe systems, pre-action pipes do not hold water within the sprinkler piping and are instead filled with compressed air or nitrogen. They are installed in places with irreplaceable or expensive items.


Fire Suppression System: Although similar in functioning — fire suppression systems are different from fire sprinklers. The fire suppression system uses gaseous forms of chemicals or foam to destroy the fire by killing the oxygen of the affected area.


What are the various types of Fire Suppression Systems?


1. FM 200 Fire Suppression System: FM 200 Suppression System releases an unharmed chemical gas. As it doesn’t leave any residue, this system is safe for the environment. Not to mention, it works quite swiftly as well.


2. Wet Chemical Suppression System: This system disperses a vapor that reacts with the fats and oils and turns the same into foam — which spreads across the affected area and cools down the surface. This suppression system also prevents the fire from re-igniting.


3. Dry Fire Suppression System: This system releases a chemical in powder form which activates when there is a rise in the temperature.


4. Carbon dioxide (CO2) Fire Suppression System: Here the extinguisher releases carbon dioxide gas which counters and repels the oxygen of the affected area; making it impossible for the fire to survive. This system also cools down the affected surface.

However, it is not safe for living beings or the environment.


Where Fire Sprinklers or Suppression Systems May Not Be the Best Option to Install?


Fire Sprinklers may seem like a better option for commercial places due to their performance and variance, but they might not be the best option for places like laboratories or hospitals where water might not be enough to repel fire. There could be a considerable risk of loss of property and lives. Here comes the need for non-water-based fire repellents like the Fire Suppression System.


Fire Suppression Systems are better at places where valuable items can be ruined by water.


Now, a fire suppression system isn’t the best choice in areas where there are a number of lives present. Chemical usage shall absolutely be banned in such places.


Let’s Wrap It Up:


Now, there are several deciding factors to determine upon whether you should be installing a suppression system or sprinkler on your premises.

Need more guidance on the same?


The Millbrook team is here for you! Our experts can guide you in installing fire protection systems that can meet your fire safety requirements.


 Source: What is the Difference between Sprinklers and Fire Suppression Systems?



Location: Hauppauge, NY, USA

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