What Is a Deluge Sprinkler System, and How Does It Work?

A Deluge Fire Sprinkler System is somewhat similar to a Pre-Active Sprinkler System.

However, this significant feature is what makes them different!
The sprinkler head of Deluge Systems is not sealed, and the pipe is not pressurized with air. The pipe is empty, and there is no pre-stored water in the piping network.

Hence, these fire sprinklers are installed in areas where a considerable amount of water is already stored on the premises.

The deluge fire sprinkler systems are connected with a deluge valve instead of water pipes. These deluge valves are smoke and heat reactive and are installed in the same position as traditional fire sprinklers.

These valves act as the signal or a detection system to circulate water. The moment the detection system is activated — water is discharged through all of the sprinkler heads attached to the system.

How is a Deluge System Set in Motion?
The heads on the deluge fire sprinkler system are connected and release water at the same time. They all operate at the same time. The deluge valve is set to open by the same detection system, explained above.

Once a high temperature of heat or smoke is detected — the water gets loaded in the pipes and is dispersed through all the sprinkler heads.

Please Note: Water is not filled in the pipes at all times. Thus, there is a requirement for a method of activation for the water supply system.

This method can vary from electric, hydraulic, pneumatic, or even manual release depending upon the type of the system (which is
discussed in the next section).

What are the Various Types of Deluge Fire Sprinkler Systems?
There are several types of deluge fire sprinkler systems.

• Pneumatic Release Deluge System: Uses a small airline with sprinkler heads as the detection line. In the event of a fire, the air in the line allows the pneumatic actuator on the Deluge Valve to open release prime water from the top of the valve.

• Hydraulic Release Deluge System: Equipped with thermostatic (rate-of-rise) releases, or fixed-temperature releases, or pilot sprinkler heads. Water can flow from any of the open sprinklers or spray nozzles on the system.

• Electrical Release Deluge System: An alarm is set off via a detector or pull station. It energizes a solenoid valve — releasing the prime water off the top of the valve.

Where is a Deluge Fire Sprinkler System Installed?
Deluge systems are created for “Buffer Zones” — areas that are required to be protected immediately.

Not solely that, these systems are not just used for diminishing fire, but for cooling down certain surfaces (to prevent deformation or structural collapse) as well.
These are also used to protect process lines, transformers, or tanks from explosions.

Other such places where deluge systems are used are:

• Tanks that Store Combustible Substances
• Equipment Pits
• Storage Cells containing Solutions with a Low Flash Point
• Product Handling Systems

What are the Benefits of a Deluge Fire Sprinkler System, and How is it Better than the Traditional Fire Sprinkler System?
A Deluge Fire Sprinkler System has an open sprinkler head and its pipes are not pre-filled with water, whereas in the traditional fire sprinkler system — water is always available in the pipes, and the sprinkler heads are securely sealed to prevent the water from flowing unnecessarily.

So, are there any advantages that deluge fire sprinkler systems provide over the traditional systems?

The very prominent advantage is that deluge fire sprinkler systems have completely dry pipes, and hence, there is no possibility for the pipes and valves to freeze during certain seasons.

If we talk about the traditional fire sprinkler systems — the water is continuously pressure-filled in the pipes, causing the pipes to freeze and block during colder seasons.

The second most significant difference is that the pipes of deluge fire sprinkler systems offer a more coordinated response to the hazardous area. They release water through all the sprinkler heads at once.

On the other hand, the traditional fire sprinkler systems require the sprinkler heads to release water at their respective period, by their zone or specific locations.

These points make the deluge systems a better option against the traditional fire sprinkler systems.

How do I Identify Whether or Not My Building Needs a Deluge Fire Sprinkler System?
Well, Millbrook Fire Protection can inspect and suggest the right sprinkler system as per the conditions of your structural space.

This is where our roots run. We provide fire sprinkler services to our customers in the commercial and residential marketplaces.

So, do not wait any further!
Our team will visit your premises and assist you in determining the most appropriate fire sprinkler system that could assuredly meet your safety requirements.

To speak with a qualified professional, contact us today.