Fire Protection

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When sprinkler piping freezes, the resulting consequences can be grave: water damage, operational disruption and loss of fire protection when it is needed most. These failures are frequently attributed to extreme weather, but most stem from oversights in controlled conditions, such as unclear heated boundaries, improperly installed insulation that isolates piping from heat and incorrect application of dry sprinkler technology.

The demand for smarter, cleaner, and more efficient fire protection solutions is growing, especially for hospitals and data centers. Fire protection engineers, contractors, and manufacturers must stay updated on changing regulations, fire codes, market needs, and new technologies.

People in the surrounding area reported multiple explosions during the blaze. The cause of the fire is still unknown. Chemicals were present inside Rovanco’s facility, but fire officials said there were no air quality concerns associated with the flames.

Steel pipe has long been the standard for fire protection systems, but chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) is a safe, cost-effective alternative for Light Hazard applications. Despite its proven reliability, misconceptions about CPVC still exist.

After a car accident in 2022 left Jesse Faust partially paralyzed, he became an advocate for fire safety while building a new home in Wisconsin, emphasizing the importance of installing fire sprinklers. Fire safety experts like Bill Sullivan highlight that, unlike smoke alarms, sprinklers actively combat fires, making them crucial for protecting lives, especially for those who may struggle to escape.

Eighty-two percent of respondents use digital tools daily to help streamline training and development programs. The majority of respondents within this group recognize the diverse benefits that digital tools offer the skilled trades industry.

Corrosion in fire sprinkler systems can go undetected until it's too late, causing damage or loss of life. Traditional ITM protocols can accelerate corrosion, but new advancements offer better prevention and monitoring for protecting lives and property.

Concealed attic spaces combine some of the most difficult aspects of fire protection design and require carefully tailored fire sprinkler solutions for effectiveness.

Pressure relief valves protect fire sprinkler system components by relieving excess system pressure from supply surges or temperature changes. Since the 2010 edition, NFPA 13: “Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems” has required pressure relief valves to be installed on all wet pipe fire sprinkler systems. But picking the correct relief valve for a specific system does need a little preplanning.

How can engineers and contractors design wet fire sprinkler systems equipped to prevent corrosion and dry systems equipped to prevent freezing? That has long been a question central to code requirements and new product development.