There are a lot of factors that go into commercial sprinkler systems. The different types of fire sprinkler systems include: The methods of activation vary depending on the system but one thing is for sure-fire sprinkler systems are designed to protect your assets by controlling and extinguishing fires! The biggest difference between the suppression systems already mentioned and sprinkler systems is the use of water instead of foam.Īll sprinkler systems are designed and engineered in different ways depending on the environment, the assets being stored in a particular space, and NFPA requirements and specifications. There are other types of fire suppression systems (including pre-engineered system applications and water mist systems), but what’s the difference between suppression and sprinkler systems? Fire Sprinkler Systems Most dry chemical fire suppression systems use a large tank that is filled with dry chemical powder, which is then pressurized. Dry Chemicalĭry chemical is a type of fire protection system that makes use of a dry chemical powder to extinguish a fire. When this liquid comes into contact with the oils and fats it creates a foam, subsequently cooling the affected area and preventing the spread and from the potential of reigniting. When triggered, the system discharges immediately with a liquid that, when sprayed onto the fire, cools the flames almost instantaneously. Wet ChemicalĮxtinguishing methods of wet chemical suppression systems are specific to the type of cooking fires that may occur in a commercial kitchen. Low-pressure C02 systems are ideal for non-occupied fire hazards requiring large amounts of extinguishing agents in a limited space.
High-pressure systems use individual storage cylinders ranging from 35 lbs to 120 lbs. There are high and low-pressure CO2 systems.
It is typically harmless to equipment, materials, and property preventing excessive damage to equipment to your facility in the event of a discharge. Carbon dioxide is a colorless and odorless three-dimensional clean agent. These extinguishing agents are also safe to use in occupied spaces and offer unique advantages in speed, performance, and safety.Ĭ02 is an effective method of extinguishing a wide range of flammable and combustible materials in both surface and deep-seated fires.
Fire suppression systems are used to extinguish or control fires and are activated by heat, smoke, or a combination of the two. There is a difference between fire suppression and fire sprinklers, and VFS Fire & Security Services is here to help figure out which fire safety measures are right for your commercial building! Fire Suppressionįire suppression systems are considered one of our specialties at VFS.
Your general thought process might look something like this: “Water puts out fires, so sprinklers must be a type of fire suppression, right?”