Review Flashcards
Which hand tool is used to locate a point from the ceiling to the floor?
Plumb bob, laser pointer
A plumb bob is a weight suspended from a string used to find a vertical reference point.
What is the purpose of screwdrivers?
To turn or drive screws
Screwdrivers are essential tools for driving screws into various materials.
What type of screwdriver are you permitted to use a wrench with?
Square blade screwdriver
This may refer to a specific type of screwdriver or brand that allows for wrench use.
What type of reamer must only be used by hand?
Spiral reamer
Spiral reamers are designed for manual operation and should not be powered.
What is the main difference between cutting wheels for different materials?
Blade thickness
Different materials require varying blade thicknesses for effective cutting.
What is the ‘T’ handle used for on a portable chain vise stand?
Brace stand in doorway or under beam
A ‘T’ handle provides stability when securing the vise in place.
Can you use a pipe wrench as a hammer? If so, what wrench may be used?
Yes. Wrap wrench
Using a wrap wrench can help prevent damage to the pipe while providing a striking surface.
What type of wrench should be used on valves?
Hex wrench
Hex wrenches fit securely into the valve’s hexagonal shape for effective turning.
Approximately how much lighter is an aluminum handle pipe wrench versus a steel handled wrench?
40% lighter
Aluminum pipe wrenches provide easier handling without sacrificing strength.
What is the proper name for the upper and lower jaw of a straight pipe wrench?
Upper → hook jaw / lower → heel jaw
The hook jaw grips the pipe while the heel jaw provides stability.
How many points of contact must be made on the pipe using a pipe wrench to properly tighten pipe into the fitting?
2 Points of Contact
Two points of contact enhance grip strength and prevent slippage.
What is the safest practice when using a chisel that has mushroomed?
Discard chisel. Do not attempt to repair it.
A mushroomed chisel can cause injury and should not be used.
What type of file is typically used throughout the sprinkler industry?
Half round files
Half round files are versatile for various shaping and smoothing tasks.
What is the term used to describe the type of power tool that does not require a ground?
Double insulated
Double insulated tools enhance safety by reducing the risk of electric shock.
Which direction should the blades face while using a hacksaw?
Away from user, towards work surface
This orientation ensures safety and effective cutting.
What type of hammer should be used when installing post-installed anchors?
Hand drilling hammer
Hand drilling hammers provide controlled force for anchor installation.
What is the proper name of the wrench commonly referred to as the thumb wrench?
Adjustable wrench
Adjustable wrenches can accommodate various sizes of nuts and bolts.
What is the proper name of the wrench commonly used when installing flanges?
Open end, box end, combination wrench
These wrenches provide versatility for different fastening scenarios.
What type of plier is commonly referred to as channel locks?
Arc joint pliers
Channel locks can grip various sizes of objects due to their adjustable feature.
How often should a cordless drill be sent back to the manufacturer for maintenance?
Every 6 months
Regular maintenance intervals help ensure optimal performance and longevity.
What should you use to clean cordless power tools?
Mild soap and water on a damp cloth
Proper cleaning prevents buildup and extends the life of the tools.
How does an automatic sprinkler operate?
Element is activated by heat, plug is released, water sprays through orifice and diffuses to spray pattern by diffuser.
What is the most common k factor of an automatic sprinkler head?
5.6k
What are three different types of elements for automatic sprinklers?
- Frangible bulb
- Solder link and lever
- Frangible pellet
What part of an automatic sprinkler converts the water into a fine stream?
The smooth bore opening and deflector.
What is the minimum pressure required for the satisfactory operation of an automatic sprinkler?
7psi.
What three factors influence sprinkler discharge?
- K-Factor (orifice size)
- Flow
- Psi & deflector
Name six basic components of a sprinkler system.
- Control
- Means for alarm
- Drain
- Surge protection
- Piping
- Sprinkler heads
List the elements of a wet pipe system and describe how it operates under fire conditions.
- Head activates with heat
- Flow is initiated
- Low pressure signal
- Flow causes alarm
- Alarm signals are sent to monitoring which is then sent to fire dept.
List the elements of a dry pipe system and describe how it operates under fire conditions.
- Head activates with heat
- System air pressure is dissipated
- Low pressure signal is sent
- City pressure eventually overcomes system pressure
- Water flows into alarm chamber and system through opened head
- Alarms are signaled.
What time limit is permitted to give an audible alarm on a sprinkler system?
5 min; building code is 1 min.
What is the time limit permitted for an automatic dry pipe system water delivery?
60 seconds as per hazard.
What is the time limit permitted for a combined dry pipe preaction system water delivery?
3 min; 1 min for every 400ft of pipe.
What is a deluge system? Where is it most often used?
Extra hazard open nozzles, operates in detection.
How does a preaction system differ from a dry pipe system?
Detection apparatus is used in conjunction; deluge valve, pull stations.
What advantage does a preaction system have over a dry pipe system?
If a head is activated, water won’t spray the area unless detection is activated.
How does a deluge system differ from a dry pipe system?
Detection causes the valve to operate and all heads dump water simultaneously.
What organizations approve sprinkler heads?
- FM approves
- UL lists
Describe the difference between ‘spray sprinklers’ and ‘old style sprinklers’.
Spray pattern old is 60% down, 40% up while spray is an umbrella pattern.
Can spray sprinklers be installed to replace old type sprinklers in existing systems?
Yes.
Where is the use of the old type sprinkler permitted today?
Piers, wood and terminals walls, fur storage vaults.
Name five types of sprinklers.
- Upright
- Pendant
- Sidewall
- Window
- Dry pendant
Are pendant and upright sprinklers interchangeable? If not, why?
No; piping modification is required to meet directional needs.
Describe dry pendant sprinklers and indicate where they are used.
Freezers; head activation activates a spring and opens piping above head flowing water.
List the temperature rating and the colour coding of four common sprinklers used today.
- Red 155F (ordinary)
- Green 200F (intermediate)
- Blue 286F (high)
- Yellow 175F
Name three orientations of sprinkler deflectors.
- Upright
- Pendant
- Sidewall
List the advantage frangible bulb has over frangible pellet sprinklers.
- Cheaper
- More sensitive
- More accurate
List five don’ts in handling sprinkler heads.
- Remove covers before install
- Over-torque
- Dry fit
What is a trapeze hanger? Where is it used?
Pipe with hanger system to hang pipe off of; hung between structure points.
Name three types of hangers for wood, steel, and concrete.
- Wood: drive screws, u-hooks, coach screw rods
- Steel: beam clamp, centre beam clamps, power driven stud, u hook
- Concrete: post installed anchors, expansion shields
What fastener on wood construction is used with U hooks?
Leg screws.
What fasteners on wood construction are used with eye rods?
Leg screws, through bolts.
Where is ductile iron pipe used? Where does it terminate?
Underground; at spigot, 2’ above grade.
What does P.I.V mean?
Post indicating valve.
Explain ‘fire watch’.
System is down, supervising patrol of area by a competent person.
List four types of fire extinguishers and the type of fire that it may be used on.
- A - ordinary combustibles
- B - flammable liquids
- C - electrical
- K - cooking oils
What methods should be used to prevent trench cave in?
Wet shoring.
What sprinkler system may use retarding chambers?
Wet system
What system may use an accelerator?
Dry double interlock preaction.
What sprinkler system requires the least service?
Shotgun, wet.
What pressure is maintained in the intermediate chamber?
Atmospheric 14.7psia.
List two quick opening devices.
- Exhauster to send it to atmosphere
- Accelerator
What provision should be made for periodic examination of pipes for ice formation?
30” easily removable piece in fridge area.
How should a dry pipe valve be protected from freezing?
Located in heated area or valve enclosure.
Normal air pressure for a dry pipe sprinkler system should be restored in a certain time limit, namely?
30 minutes.
60 minutes in refrigerated
Describe pipe arrangement for a nitrogen bottle supply for a dry system?
Through hi/low pressure regulator to manage pressure change, then AMD.
What is the required air pressure for a dry pipe system?
Depends on differential and valve; 40psi is common.
Where are pressure gauges required on dry pipe systems?
- Air gauge on system side tied to air supply
- On air supply
- On accelerator
- On water supply side
What is the maximum number of heads recommended on one antifreeze system?
20 heads, 40 gal.
Name two antifreeze solutions.
- Glycerin
- Propylene glycol
Describe the piping arrangement for an antifreeze system where sprinklers are above or below test valve A?
- Above need check valve
- Below need check valve
How does a deluge valve operate?
Detection line activates valve; water takes from priming chamber and trips faster than the restricted orifice can replace the water.
What is meant by automatic supervision of heat responsive devices?
Pressure switch or resistors.
What is the minimum average discharge from an open sprinkler head in a deluge system in extra hazard group 1 occupancy?
100sgft, 30 gpm.
Where are pressure gauges required on pre-action and deluge systems?
- System side
- Pilot line
- Supply side
- Priming chamber
Where is an accelerator installed on a dry pipe system?
From system side to intermediate chamber, close as possible to valve above the priming line.
How does a smoke detector actuate a system?
Through detection line releasing panel to solenoid.
In combined dry pipe preaction system what enables simultaneous tripping of the two dry pipe valves?
1” connecting line to both valves.
In a limited water supply situation, what motive force forces the water out of the sprinkler?
Head pressure (gravity).
What is the minimum air pressure required in a pressure tank?
15psi.
What alarms/supervisory are required on a pressure tank installation?
- Low and high water level
- High and low pressure
- Flow
- Valve tamper
What two conditions would indicate a trouble signal on a pressure tank?
- Low pressure
- High pressure
- Low water
- High water
In a pressure tank what is the ratio of air to water?
2/3 water, 1/3 air.
What determines the size of pressure tank in a limited water supply system?
System demand, which from hazard, low pressure and duration.
What is a local flow alarm?
Any on-site alarm.
What alarms are on a wet pipe system, dry pipe system, and preaction system?
- Wet pipe: waterflow alarms – flow and pressure
- Dry pipe: flow and pressure
- Preaction: pressure flow
Why are flow alarm (paddle type) not installed on a dry pipe, preaction or deluge system?
Water hammer damage.
What is the function of the alarm check valve?
System check valve, drain port, alarm port; provides gauges.
What size pipe is used for connecting the alarm check valve to the water motor gong?
¾” non-corrosive metallic.
What is the maximum number of alarm check valves that may be connected to a water motor gong according to most manufacturers?
3.
What is the proper method of testing water flow devices which control electric alarm systems?
ITV.
What is used on alarm check valves to resist slight water surges?
Retard chamber, pilot port.
How is a paddle type flow indicator assembled on the pipe?
Folded towards water.
What is an annunciator and where is it located?
Supplement alarm system, main entrance.
What drains are provided on an alarm line?
- Wet restricted orifice
- Velocity – automatic
- Maintain atmospheric
How are systems broken down into areas for fire alarms?
Zones.
When will a trouble signal be sent from a supervised control valve, from a gravity tank? From a pressure tank?
- When control valve is other than full open
- Low water levels.
What is the minimum temperature permitted for gravity tanks?
42°F.
How are fire pumps supervised?
Fire pump controller, phase reversal, fire pump run.
Explain the installation and function of an excess pressure pump.
Prevent false alarms, supply to system, below the clapper.
Why is an annunciator often used as a fire signal in public buildings?
Located where people can hear it, direct fire department.
Explain the operation of an alarm switch.
Predetermined pressure closes contacts.
How are false alarms prevented?
- E.P.P
- retard chambers
- Timer on pressure switch
- Recycling retard feature on paddle flow switches.
How should sprinklered and unsprinklered areas be separated?
Fire wall.
What is the function of draft curtains?
Separate ESFR from other sprinklers.
When are reconditioned valves and devices permitted to be installed in sprinkler systems?
Existing system.
Who should approve sprinkler drawings?
AHJ and/or municipality.
Define: Light hazard occupancies.
Where combustibility is low.
Define: Ordinary hazard occupancies.
Low to moderate combustibility.
Define: Extra hazard occupancies.
Highly combustible.
Who determines the water supply requirements for sprinkler systems?
AHJ.
What is the smallest size street main to which it is desirable to make a connection for a sprinkler system?
6”.
What is the smallest underground sprinkler connection allowed?
Same size as the riser, as long as it feeds 1 zone.
When testing at a hydrant to determine the quantity of a water supply, how is the flow of water measured?
Residual measurement, velocity pressure.
What is the purpose of a fire department connection?
Supplement sprinkler system.
What is the minimum size for a yard main feeding both sprinklers and hydrants?
6”.
Where should domestic connections be made to fire protection piping, if permitted by authorities having jurisdiction?
Upstream fire control valve before back flow.
What are the requirements for the installation of pressure gauges?
- Must read 2x pressure against it
- NPT is ¼”
- 3% accuracy
- Three way to drain.
Where would the check valve for a fire department connection be located on wet sys, dry sys, pre-action sys and deluge sys?
After system valve.
How are sprinkler risers sized?
Hydro calc, pipe sch.
What is the maximum number of sprinklers on a branch line on either side of a cross main in a pipe schedule system of ordinary hazard occupancy?
8 on either side
What is a flushing connection and what is the minimum pipe size connection?
Flushing debris, 1 ¼” , removable fitting
What are the requirements for the use of return bends?
Shall be used in dry systems/pre-actions, in pendant position, in heated area
What restrictions are placed on the use of hand hose connections between wet and dry pipe systems?
Only connected to wet systems, 8.17
What is the required pitch on wet and dry pipe systems to provide adequate drainage?
Wet- level, dry-1/4” mains ½” branch over 10 feet. Refr, ½”
What is a drum drip?
dry system aux, 5 gal trapped
What is the function of a ‘tie in’ drain?
Connect multiple drains 1” min pipe ½” slope
What material are fittings used in sprinkler systems usually made of?
- Black cast iron
- Ductile
- Malleable
- Copper
- CPVC
- Stainless
- Grooved-ductile
What type of bushings are permitted in fittings?
- Hex, temporary
- Face, not temporary
What is meant by ‘indicator type valve’?
valve with a feature to visually show open or closed
What is the only water supply that never requires a control valve?
FDC
What provision should be made to keep a ‘c clamp’ from coming loose due to vibration?
Retaining nut
What is the minimum thickness of a restraining strap used with a hanger?
16 gauge
What is the minimum thickness of steel into which a powder driven stud may be set?
3/16”
What is the maximum pipe size which may be supported by powder driven studs in concrete?
5”
In general terms give the location of hangers on sprinkler branch line, cross mains and feed mains.
- Branch- 6’ omission, from ends based on pipe size. within 24” after riser
- Cross mains-alternating rule
- feed-vertically, horizontally, hanger
What should be the position of the frame arms on an upright sprinkler be relative to the branch line pipe?
parallel
How does a ‘large orifice’ sprinkler differ from a ‘standard’ sprinkler?
Large water droplets that make it to fire on large. Fire suppression. larger orifice.
What type of finishes are provided on corrosion resistant sprinklers and by whom must this finish be applied?
- wax
- ent
- nickel
- polyester-by manufacturer
What temperature rating should be used for sprinklers located under a glass skylight exposed to direct sunlight?
Intermediate
What clear space should be kept below sprinkler deflectors to permit proper water distribution?
18” for standard spray
36” for special response
What is the maximum and minimum distance for deflectors under a smooth concrete ceiling?
1”-12”
Is there any difference between deflector distance under open bar joists or smooth ceiling construction?
no
What is the minimum and maximum distance for sprinkler deflectors under open wood joists and wood joist sheathed with gypsum?
1-6” , 2 with no drywall, 1-12”
What is the minimum distance for deflectors of pendant sprinklers under smooth ceilings?
1”
What is the minimum and maximum deflector distance for sprinklers under combustible and non-combustible ceilings?
1-12”
When may an air maintenance device be omitted on an air supply to a dry system?
Air compr capacity 5.5cubic feet/min at 10psi, when manual
What are the requirements for installing sprinklers under combustible and non-combustible stairway enclosures?
- Com-every intermediate landing
- top and bottom nc-top and bottom
When are sprinklers required under exterior docks and platforms?
if used for storage, machinery, or if accessible
Tables decks, platforms, etc, usually require sprinklers under them if their width exceeds what distance?
4’
When are baffles necessary between standard spray sprinklers?
When closer than 6’
What is the maximum area of coverage for sidewall sprinklers?
196 sqft
What is the maximum distance between sidewall sprinklers?
14’
What is the minimum and maximum distance a sidewall sprinkler may be from a ceiling?
4-6” , unless listed differently
What is the maximum width of a bulk head when using a sidewall sprinkler where coverage underneath is not required?
8”
Describe how to fill an antifreeze system.
pump
Why is there a one thirty second hole required in the clapper of a check valve in an antifreeze system?
Expansion, omitted when sprinkler under test valve A
How can you determine what temperature an existing antifreeze system can be subjected to without freezing?
refractometer
What governs the choice of size for an air compressor to be used to supply air to a dry pipe system?
Required air fill time, 30 min
When air is taken from a shop supply at 100 psi, what devices are required in the air supply line serving an automatically maintained dry pipe system?
- AMD
- check valve
- relief valve
What are the requirements for a sprinkler valve room?
- Lighted
- Heated
- Drainage
List 5 water supplies for sprinkler systems.
- city
- well
- tank
- fdc
- raw water
- fire pump
What is the minimum pressure and volume required for a water supply to light hazard occupancy and ordinary hazard occupancy pipe schedule system?
- 15, 500-750gpm
- 20, 850-1500gpm
What is residual pressure? How is residual pressure measured?
flowing water, normal gauge
Why is residual pressure used as a measure of the adequacy of a water supply?
in fire condition, this is the actual pressure
Why are pressure regulating valves and water meters undesirable in water supply mains?
friction loss
What 3 types of shutoff valves are recommended for use in a sprinkler water supply main?
- OS and Y
- butterfly
- non-rising stem
How is the adequacy of a public water supply determined?
flow test
What are the components that make up a fire pump installation for a sprinkler water supply?
- pump
- driver
- control valves
- discharge check
- circulation release
- controller
- jockey pump and controller
- sensing line
- positive water supply
- power supply
Give three reasons why fire pumps are usually of the centrifugal type.
- Simple operation
- Reliable
- Cheap and easy to repair as compared to others
What three types of drives are available for fire pumps?
- diesel
- electric
- steam
What percent of the rated capacity should a fire pump be capable of producing?
150%
What is the purpose of a trash rack screen?
filter water supply, always 2 for servicing
What is the purpose of a fire pump?
To give adequate pressure and maintain flow
Under what condition may the priming tank and priming connection be omitted?
When supplying a pump with positive pressure
Which pressure gauge will read the highest pressure when the fire pump is not running? The suction gauge or the discharge gauge?
they read the same when not running
What is a jockey pump? What is a jockey pump used for?
Pressure maintenance pump, needed so fire pump doesn’t turn on and stay on
Describe the normal operation of a fire pump and jockey pump as to sequence of operation.
10 psi below for jockey cut in
5 psi below jockey pump for fire pump
Give 5 rules governing the location, the construction and the equipment of a pump room.
- Fire rated walls
- Lighting
- Venting for diesel
- 50 feet from building when separate
Describe the proper procedure for mounting the bedplate for the pump and driver on the foundations.
Grouting, level and square
Describe the proper procedure to use for aligning the pump shaft with the drive shaft at the flexible coupling.
Remove flex cpl, use feeler gauge for angular and perpendicular
Why should pipes connected to the pump be supported independently of the pump?
vibration could create stress
Why is it preferred to supply water to the pump under pressure head rather than supplying water from a sump?
cant prime
Why must pumps taking suction under lift have a means of priming the pump?
So it can draw water
What is the minimum pump bowl submergence of a vertical shaft turbine pump at sea level?
10’ under draw line to second pump bowl assembly
When should a fire pump be installed with a by-pass arrangement?
If water supply can make it to sprinklers
Why shall all suction pipes be hydrostatically tested?
So it doesn’t leak, leaks suck in air and cause cavitation
Describe how a vertical shaft turbine-type delivers water at high pressure to the sprinkler system using a well.
more stages, more pressure
What two types of drives are usually used to operate vertical shaft pumps?
- Electric
- Diesel, diesel requires differential gear
Basket strainers should be made of what type of material? How large a free area should the strainer have?
- Non-corrosive
- 4x suction connection, metallic ½ inch strainer
62.5% open area
What is the purpose of the automatic air release valve?
Auto vent air when starting and stopping
What is a controller used for?
Controls pump, gives visual status of operation
In an internal combustion engine drive what additional components must be supplied?
- Fuel
- Exhaust
- Batteries/chargers
- Fuel lines
Why must the check valve be placed in a horizontal position at the base of the gravity tank?
Gravity would open the check
When a gravity tank is to be filled from the fire protection system, why is it necessary to have a bypass around the check valve?
fill the tank
What is the proper size pump to use for filling a gravity tank?
Any pump that can fill within 8 hours
What is the mercury gauge used for?
determine water level in gravity tank
What is the mercury catcher used for on the mercury gauge?
Catches mercury
Why shouldn’t the gravity tank function for both sprinkler system and plant water system?
So water level is adequate at all times for fire
Why should the water pipe to the mercury gauge have a continual upward pitch toward the tank?
Gets rid of air pockets
What is the approximate ratio of mercury to water in the mercury gauge?
13.56:1
What minimum temperature is allowed on a gravity tank? At what temperature should an alarm signal be received?
42F , 40F 5.5C, 4.4C
What is the minimum pipe size for the cold water return on a gravity tank heater?
2”
Why is it preferred to locate the pressure tank above the top level of sprinklers?
Head pressure, allows for smaller tank
How full of water should a pressure tank normally be? At what pressure should the compressed air in the tank be maintained?
- 2/3 water
- 75psi
How is the water level indicated on a pressure tank? How is the air pressure indicated?
sight glass
What automatic safety devices are required on a pressure tank?
- Air relief
- 1 ½” water relief
- 10% above operating
What capacity air compressor is required for the air side of the pressure tank?
16cfm, 22cfm
Why should stones and dirt be kept out of the underground pipe when it is laid?
obstructions
How should the pipe ordinarily be supported in the trench?
Across its whole length
What kind of joints should be used on ductile iron underground pipe?
Tyton, mechanical joint
What must be done to the back fill material after installing underground mains?
Layer tamped or puddle under and around pipes preventing settlement or lateral movement.
Why should the flushing occur before connecting up to the sprinkler system?
Commissioning process, keep pipe clean, 10’/sec……suction side of fire pump: 15’/sec
What is an exposure fire?
Fire jumping from building to outside or vice versa
How can an outside sprinkler system using open heads be made to operate automatically?
Deluge valve with detection
How are sprinklers controlled when they are installed to protect against more than one distinct and separate exposure?
Check valves, control valves
What is the maximum spacing distance for cornice sprinklers and the minimum discharge orifice?
10’, 8k, 5/8 ½”, 8’
When is it permissible to connect outside sprinklers to cross mains of inside automatic sprinklers?
E
What is the main purpose of using standard spray sprinklers?
Controlling fires
For what special hazards is a water mist system acceptable?
- Class A
- When commodities are of high value
- Causes less damage
- Also flammable liquids, droplet: under 400 um
What are some of the components of a water mist system?
- Auto nozzles
- Non-auto
- Multi-functional
- Propellant gas
What type of internal coating may be introduced into sprinkler systems to control MIC?
Listed coatings: potter pipe shield for wet
How is the extinguishment of a fire by water spray accomplished?
Heat absorption, evaporation (O2 displacement). Specific aiming of nozzles for specific
What is the acceptable fire classification for a water mist system?
Class A when commodities are of high value, causing less damage
Water mist systems are effective against flammable liquids with droplet sizes under 400 µm.
What are some of the components of a water mist system?
- Auto nozzles
- Non-auto nozzles
- Multi-functional nozzles
- Propellant gas
These components work together to create an effective water mist for fire suppression.
What type of internal coating may be introduced into sprinkler systems to control MIC?
Listed coatings, such as Potter Pipe Shield for wet systems
MIC stands for Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion.
How is the extinguishment of a fire by water spray accomplished?
- Heat absorption
- Evaporation (O2 displacement)
- Specific aiming of nozzles for specific objects
Aiming nozzles correctly is crucial for effective fire suppression.
How do water droplets displace oxygen?
Through latent heat expansion, displacing O2; fires extinguished under 15% O2
At 1700:1 ratio, this method effectively reduces available oxygen for combustion.
What type of fire are carbon dioxide systems used to protect against?
Electric fires, Class C
Carbon dioxide systems are effective for Class C fires due to their non-conductive properties.
Name two types of applications for carbon dioxide systems.
- Total flooding
- Local application
These applications are chosen based on the specific fire protection needs of the environment.
What is the difference between a total flooding system and a local application system?
Total flooding systems reduce O2 to below 15%, while local application systems allow for fires to live at 14.9% O2
Total flooding systems are used for entire rooms, whereas local systems target specific areas.
What is the operating temperature range for carbon dioxide systems?
-20F to 150F
This range ensures the systems function effectively under various environmental conditions.
What is the maximum operating force and travel of manual control for carbon dioxide systems?
Not more than 40 lbs pull force, not more than 14” travel to secure operation at 4 ft height
This ensures safe and effective operation of the systems.
What are the normal pressure and temperature for high-pressure storage containers for carbon dioxide?
- 70F
- 850 psi (fluctuates with pressure)
Proper storage conditions are critical for the safety and efficacy of carbon dioxide systems.
What is the room temperature range allowed for total flooding application storage containers of carbon dioxide?
0F to 130F
Temperatures outside this range can result in ice formation or explosion risks.
How much heavier is carbon dioxide compared to air?
1.5 times heavier
This characteristic aids in its effectiveness in displacing oxygen during fire suppression.
What is the normal temperature range for local application carbon dioxide storage containers?
32F to 120F
This range ensures that the system operates effectively without risk of failure.
What material should the pipe and fittings be made from for use in carbon dioxide systems?
Standard malleable, heavy fittings; no cast fittings
Malleable fittings provide the necessary durability and safety for high-pressure systems.
In high-pressure carbon dioxide systems, what weight of fittings shall be used?
Class 300 malleable, forged steel
This ensures that the fittings can withstand the pressures involved.
What type of fire is foam more widely used for?
Flammable liquids
Foam is effective in creating a barrier between fuel and air vapor.
How does low/medium expansion foam extinguish a fire?
By creating a barrier between fuel and air
This prevents oxygen from reaching the fuel source.
Describe three methods of introducing foam solution into a sprinkler system.
- Bladder (balanced pressure system)
- Pre-mix method
- Line proportioning (eduction method, siphoning, orifice plate)
These methods ensure effective delivery of foam for fire suppression.
What do all types of foam systems depend on?
Proper mixture
The effectiveness of foam in firefighting is contingent on achieving the correct mixture.
Name two methods by which foam may be applied to a fire.
- Surface application
- Sub-surface application (e.g., fuel tanks, oil tanks, injection inside liquid)
These methods ensure that foam reaches the fire effectively.
What may displace foam?
- Water
- Air
Displacement can reduce the effectiveness of foam in extinguishing fires.
Explain the advantages of the detection method used in a suprotex system.
Adjustable, more sensitive (rate of rise is more sensitive type system)
This sensitivity is crucial for detecting slow fires that may not trigger other systems.
How can the speed of the thermal pneumatic detection system be increased or modified?
By adjusting the vent rating or mercury level
These adjustments can enhance detection speed and accuracy.
Define HAD and how they operate.
Heat Activated Device; operates with an increase in temperature
HADs are essential for automatic fire detection systems.
List one area where the rate of rise system is often used.
In environments with fluctuating temperatures
This system helps in environments where temperature changes can indicate fire risk.
What is used to supervise the thermal system and sprinkler piping in the rate of rise system?
Air pressure in the pressure switch
This supervision prevents false alarms and ensures system integrity.
Outline the function of mercury checks in a rate of rise system.
Prevents false alarms
Mercury checks help ensure that only genuine temperature rises activate the system.
What happens if the rate of rise temperature is not sufficient to operate the valve?
The fixed temp fail safe and manual pull station activate
This provides an alternative method to trigger the system.
How can the rate of rise system be arranged to contain air in the sprinkler piping?
Using a check valve to supervise the pipe
This arrangement helps maintain system pressure and prevents air loss.
How is a suprotex system tripped manually?
By releasing weight
This manual activation is crucial for emergency situations.
How is an OS&Y gate valve supervised?
With a tamper switch, chain and lock, sealed
Supervision ensures the valve remains secure and functional.
What is the setting of the pressure switch supplied with the electric air pump panel for the suprotex system?
1-1.5 psi low pressure, measured in ounces
Proper pressure settings are essential for system operation.
For owners with air supply and pressure less than 100 psi, what must be used to make it acceptable for a suprotex system?
Low pressure regulator
This component ensures that the air supply meets system requirements.
What instrument is used to set and test mercury checks in suprotex systems?
manometer
If an H.A.D. is punctured, what is the result?
supervisory
Name two devices used on pneumatic detection lines today.
- Pilot line detector
- c1/c2
Explain the procedure for resetting a suprotex system after operation.
- Close main control
- Face plate off reset clapper
- Reset weight
- System pressure
Describe the procedure for heat testing suprotex systems.
- Heat gun
- Steam
- Hot water
How are control valves in a sprinkler system supervised?
- Electrically
- Locked
- Seal
At what interval shall control valves be inspected?
quarterly
What should a completed control valve inspection report reveal?
What maintenance will be carried out on P.I.V. valve stems?
Lube stem
At what frequency is maintenance on P.I.V. valve stems carried out?
annually
How will post indicator valves be tested and positioned to avoid jamming?
Fully open to closed
List three important facts to remember when making alterations and repairs in a sprinkler system.
- Only shut off when ready for connection
- Authorities
- Fire watch
What is required when it is necessary to shut off a portion of the sprinkler system overnight?
Signature
Why should broken hangers be replaced promptly?
Puts additional weight on other hangers
When shall dry system auxiliary drains be used?
Remove condensation
List four items that will be inspected on a system at the approach of freezing weather.
- Heat trace
- Low points
- Anti-freeze solution
Explain when sprinklers must be replaced without testing.
Painted or damaged
How shall a valve room be heated?
Permanent heat source
When is it most important that no water be in a dry pipe system?
Freezing season
When shall the dry pipe valve be thoroughly cleaned and reset?
annually
List the sealing materials that are used on the seats of dry pipe valves.
none
How would you know when a dry pipe valve had been tripped and tested?
should have a tag on it
At what interval shall the air pressure in a dry pipe system be checked and corrected?
Super-monthly non-weekly
Why shall the full water pressure be used when the dry pipe valve is being tested?
See proper function
Describe what must be done before any dry pipe valve is tripped.
Notify monitoring
What test for operation under service conditions shall be employed?
- Alarm test
- Main drain flow test
- Low pressure
- Supervisory switch
What will help to keep quick opening devices in good operating condition?
Proper maintenance
