Pre-action Fire Sprinkler Systems

A pre-action sprinkler system is similar to a deluge sprinkler system except the sprinklers are closed. This type system is typically used in areas containing high value equipment or contents and spaces which are highly sensitive to the effects of accidental sprinkler water discharge. The pre-action valve is normally closed and is operated by a separate detection system.

Activation of a fire detector will open the pre-action valve, allowing water to enter the system piping. Water will not flow from the sprinklers until heat activates the operating element in individual sprinklers. Opening of the pre-action valve effectively converts the system to a wet pipe sprinkler system.

In a pre-action system the piping is pressurized with air or nitrogen, monitoring of this air pressure provides a means of supervising the system piping. Loss of the supervisory air pressure in the system piping results in a trouble signal at the alarm panel.

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