What is a Preaction Fire Protection System? A Beginner’s Guide

In the midst of a fire emergency, the preaction fire protection system stands as a proactive bodyguard and protects sensitive assets and property from being caught in fire, reducing further damage. Therefore, installing a pre-action fire protection system for your office, home, or any facility is necessary. And, if you also intend to consider this system for your workspace or any other premises, this beginner’s guide to the pre-action fire system will walk you through the functions of the system, its types, and applications. 

With the key features you can obtain and the advantages of this fire protection system, we have also prepared a comparison, so you can opt for your requirements and facility needs. Thus, take a thorough read! 

The Overview of the Pre-Action Fire Protection System

Preaction fire protection system is a two-step dry pipe sprinkler system that detects fire and prevents it from spreading and causing damage. It detects fire through smoke and heat by using integrated smart sensors. 

In addition, pre action protection system is also considered a precise and reliable fire suppression system that extinguishes fire from its source, reducing hazardous damage to property, in the workspace, and surroundings. These systems function in three types, which are as follows: 

1. Single Interlock

Single Interlock fire protection preaction systems are a type of fire sprinkler system that prevents water damage by keeping the pipes dry until the fire is detected. It is one of the most reliable fire protection systems that the Victaulic Preaction Valves provide. 

• Types of Single Interlock Systems: Electric Release Single Interlock, Dry Pilot, Wet Pilot Actuation Single Interlock. 
• Ideal Usage: In museums, libraries, archives, homes, apartments, data centers, workspaces, and computer rooms. 

2. Double Interlock

Double Interlock is a specialised water sprinkler system that operates when two conditions are satisfied. First, the sensors detect smoke or fire, and second, when the sprinkler’s head breaks or melts from heat. When these events occur, the water is released, preventing accidental liquid damage. 

• Types of Single Interlock Systems: Electric/Pneumatic Double Interlock, Pneumatic/Pneumatic Double Interlock, and Pre-Packaged/Skid-Mounted Systems. 
• Ideal Usage: In museums, libraries, archives, commercial buildings, corporate spaces, data centers, workspaces, and computer or server rooms. 

3. Non-Interlock

Non-interlock fire protection preaction systems can be activated when sensors detect a fire or when a sprinkler head breaks. This system is quicker and riskier than the single and double interlock systems, as they are prone to premature discharge if a sprinkler head breaks. 

Key Features of Preaction Fire Protection System

Here are the key features of the pre-action fire protection system: 

• Dual-Action Activation: The preaction valve for fire protection system works in a dual-action activation. First, the sensor detects fire, and then the sprinkler’s head breaks or melts. 

• Dry Piping System: The single and double sprinkler system stays filled with low-pressure air instead of water, preventing unnecessary flow of water and damage. 

• Electric Controls: Integrated electric fire protection preaction systems prevent water from flowing until a real fire is detected. 

• Detection Integration: The system also monitors for any damage in the pipe. If found, it then sends alarms before the water damages sensitive systems. 

Advantages of Installing Pre Action Fire Protection System

Here are the key advantages you can obtain from the fire protection preaction systems: 

• Prevents Accidental Water Damage: These systems control and prevent water from damaging valuables like servers, computers, archives, etc. In case the sprinkler head is broken, the system will not release water. 

• Flexible Use: These systems keep the pipes dry until the emergency, which makes them ideal for cold storage facilities where water can freeze, causing pipes to burst. 

• Reduced Corrosion and Leaks: The pipes normally stay empty, reducing the risk of corrosion and leaks. Consider durable Victaulic preaction valves that are built from corrosion-resistant material and prevent pipe damage, ensuring long life. 

• Faster Detection and Response: These systems respond quickly and extinguish fire effectively, while ensuring minimal damage. 

• Two-Step Activation: Single and double-fire sprinkler systems operate through a two-step activation process that requires both sensor and sprinkler head breakage or melting. 

How to Choose the Right Pre-Action Protection for Your Facility

In the following steps, you can choose the right preaction fire protection system for your facility: 

1. Identify your Needs: Identify your risk profile and requirements, and at what place these systems will be installed, such as laboratories, a factory, a hospital, or a storage facility. Trusted firms like the Victaulic Fire Safety Solutions will help you choose the right type of interlock system. 

2. Choose the right pre-action system. Whether single, double, or non-interlock systems, they must meet your requirements. For instance, for a corporate workspace, you must consider the double-interlock systems. 

3. Evaluate Key Factors: Look for features to prevent false alarm activation, maintenance frequency and cost, and double-interlock options for colder environments. 

4. Code Compliance: Only consider systems that comply with NFPA standards, including NFPA 13 and 72. And, choose only reliable and trusted HVAC Fire and plumbing providers. 

Conclusion 

In today’s world, fire emergencies can occur at any place of work or storage. To protect your property and valuable assets, devices, and belongings, relying on a preaction fire protection system provides complete protection and safety. Therefore, this pre-action fire system beginner’s guide helps you understand how the system works, the applications, and key features. Also, the factors required for you to know, before you proceed to purchase a pre-action fire system, are also mentioned in detail. 

Airmep Sales Corporation is an industry leader in providing extensive solutions for pre-active fire protection systems. With substantial expertise in offering fire protection systems, we evaluate our clients’ needs and requirements and suggest tailored solutions. Our professional team handles every process from expert consultation to design and installation, ensuring consistent customer support. Thus, you can reach out to us and obtain your customized solutions for the pre-active fire protection systems. 

Also Read : What Is a Fire Pipe Coupling? Types, Uses & Benefits