Archive for January 2022
The Science of Fire
The science related to fire is a very interesting subject. Fire can occur nearly anywhere and anytime under the presence of the right conditions. It will depend on the environmental variable to depict the kind of fire incidents that occur. Is there an abundance of fuel and other factors that give rise to fire? Fire causes the loss of human life, business resources, and structural integrity. Here in this article, we will talk about fire scientifically and discuss the need for fire sprinkler systems for commercial buildings, offices, and other business spaces.
What we call “fire” is a chemical reaction known as combustion. It is a common chemical reaction that takes place around us every day. It requires fuel and other factors, including oxygen in the air, material to burn, and heat to begin the reaction. Once the heat on a material goes up to a certain temperature, combustion takes place. Let’s dive deeper into the process of learning how a small chemical reaction can be detrimental to businesses and the lives of humans who fall victim to fire accidents.
Understanding the Science of Fire
When some form of fuel interacts with the oxygen in the air, the combustion reaction takes place. However, not all oils such as gasoline or wood catch fire when they come in contact with oxygen under any condition. For combustion to begin, the material has to be above a certain threshold of temperature. This will form the right conditions for ignition, and oxygen-aided fire will catch onto the material.
To understand better, here’s the fire triangle that experts and professionals explain:
- Oxygen – present in the air
- Fuel – any material that burns, such as wood, paper, law, etc.
- Heat – enough exhaustion and heat energy transfer to ignite the material
The trio of these elements forms the Fire Triangle that is necessary for teaching fire prevention and control. Why is that necessary? You should always remain prepared for unusual circumstances but more than that, learning what causes what will ensure that you know the right precautions. Removing any of the elements from the equation of the Fire Triangle, such as fuel, heat, or oxygen, will suppress the fire. For example, covering the fire with a blanket can remove the supply of air to it and thus put out the fire.
Learn the Chemical Reaction of Combustion
The most prominent causes of fires in buildings include paper burns, faulty wires, stove accidents, and more. This growing number of causes of fire accidents is demanding more and better forms of fire protection and safety systems. While fuel can be in any state (solid, liquid, or gas), once it reaches a high enough temperature to expel gases (if not gas already), combustion begins. The gas molecules break apart and join with oxygen to form water and carbon dioxide molecules.
Fire keeps erupting if the heat is consistent. Consequently, the heat relies on the burning fuel to maintain a consistent temperature. Altogether, with the presence of enough fuel and heat, the reaction will not come to an end quickly. Hence, the fire spreads once the gases from the reaction start to disperse.
Why Do Businesses Require Fire Sprinkler and Protection Systems?
Reports from National Fire Protection Association show how fires cause so much damage. According to a report of 2017, the property damage from fire accidents totaled $10.7 billion. Be it residential, commercial, or industrial fire, a place with fire hazards is prone to fire accidents. That’s why there are strict codes and standards that fire-hazardous places have to follow.
(Source)
There are many different forms of damages that structures and buildings have to endure due to fire incidents. Fire is a naturally destructive element when viewed on a grand scale. Since minute fires are easily controllable, there are no major causes of concern. Here are the forms of damages that can take place and affect commercial buildings, offices, and other spaces.
- Aesthetics damage
- Smokes pollution
- Soot buildup and smells
- Structural damage
- Fire protection equipment and system losses
- Business resource losses
- Health injuries
- Loss of human lives
- Loss of assets and expensive business resources
The Science of Fire: Conclusion
Do you think that you require a better fire protection system? Do you think your current fire sprinkler or other fire-safety system is capable of keeping our and your environment safe? If the answer is not a “yes,” you should consider reaching out to F2M Fire & Drafting Designs Inc. for help.
We offer the best resources at our disposal, including efficient fire sprinkler designers, using our experience of over 20 years in keeping buildings safe from fire damage. You can rely on us when it comes to keeping your space fire-safe. Call us at to schedule a meeting with an expert today.
F2M Fire & Drafting Designs Inc.
1231 Lafayette Ave, Fl 2
Bronx, New York, 10474
Learn more at our official website.
Reference Links:
https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/education/Documents/ScienceFire.pdf
https://www.techniquest.org/blog/the-science-of-fire/
https://www.sciencelearn.org.nz/resources/747-what-is-fire
https://hallmark-mc.com/blog/effects-of-fire-damage-to-businesses/
Types of Building Fire Sprinkler Systems
What are the different types of building fire sprinkler systems? Sprinkler systems are essential components of a property’s fire safety plan. Besides taking other fire protection safety measures, you should install a state-of-the-art fire sprinkler system. This system suppresses the flames and smoke, preventing the fire from spreading.
Consequently, you will notice a reduction in fire-related damages. Furthermore, it gives people enough time to escape from the building and stay in a safe area until fire services reach the location. There are four major commercial sprinkler systems to consider, each of which offers different features and response rates. These options come at different prices, depending on the features. So, if you want one that offers high levels of protection and a good response time, you should weigh your options carefully.
Types of Fire Sprinkler Systems
Generally, there are four major fire sprinkler systems. These include dry pipe, wet pipe, pre-action, and deluge. All these options are effective to prevent the spread of flames and reducing fire damage. After installing these systems in your property, you don’t have to worry about severe damages in case of fire-related emergencies. While deciding between these options, you should consider their applications and activation process.
1. Wet Pipe System
Wet pipe sprinkler systems are common in commercial and residential buildings. In New York City, you will find these systems in every other home and office. This system starts working when the heat activates the sprinkler head. This triggers the system, and water stored in the pipes releases with pressure. Each sprinkler head has sensors that work independently. This means the heat will trigger sprinkler systems in the affected area. In the case of a false alarm, you bear limited water wastage and related expenses. Wet pipe systems are a low-maintenance option, inexpensive, and are highly recommended for schools, offices, and commercial properties.
2. Dry Pipe System
A dry sprinkler system is different from a wet system because it doesn’t store water in the pipes. Instead, it contains pressurized nitrogen or air that is released when the system detects a fire. The sprinkler head has sensors that identify a fire to activate the valves. After the release of gases, the water fills in the pipe and eliminates the remaining flames or smoke. This system is more complicated and expensive than a wet pipe system. However, it is suitable for regions with cold climates due to frozen pipes. If you use a wet pipe system in cold climates, the water will freeze, blocking the response in an emergency.
3. Pre-Action System
Pre-action systems are similar to dry pipe sprinklers. The only difference is the activation system. Pre-action systems include two-step activation. When the system detects smoke or a fire, it opens the valves allowing water to flow into the pipes. Then, the sprinkler heads release water over the fire after detecting the affected area. This reduces the risks of damage during a false alarm. What happens is, the system verifies the fire twice, effectively protecting your assets from water damage. Pre-action systems are helpful in locations where accidental discharge can result in irreparable damages. For instance, in data centers, libraries, and museums, the management uses pre-action fire sprinkler systems to protect precious items.
4. Deluge System
The deluge sprinkler system is another advanced version of the dry pipe system. But, this system is in contrast to the pre-action system. In this system, the sprinkler heads are always active. This system doesn’t include a heat-sensing device in the head. But, you need to include an external heat or smoke sensor with this system to turn on the valve. When the sensors detect heat, it fills the water in the pipes and releases it from all the active sprinkler heads. This creates a flooding effect in the entire location. Many industries utilize deluge sprinkler systems to protect their highly expensive and high-precision machinery. Many industries also use flammable liquids along with this system for rapid recovery.
Choosing the Best Fire Sprinkler System
Every sprinkler system that we just mentioned contains special features and unique benefits. Therefore, doing your research before installing a system is highly important. Consider evaluating the options by comparing their pros and cons. The choice of a sprinkler system depends on the specific environment. Also, you can use different systems strategically and secure an entire building. For a fire sprinkler installation plan, you will need a professional who can inspect the area and identify the best locations for installation. Contact F2M Fire and Drafting Designs Inc. and consult with a professional team. They will guide you about how you can enhance the security of your commercial and residential property.
Installing a Sprinkler System
While creating a fire safety protection plan, you cannot exclude fire sprinkler systems. These systems offer a rapid response after detecting a fire and smoke in the facility. But before choosing a fire sprinkler system, it is essential to evaluate the options, maintenance, installation, and design of the different systems. A professionally trained and experienced technician will guide you about factors to consider before choosing a system. Furthermore, they will install the system to ensure maximum security and utmost safety for your assets and employees.
Types of Building Fire Sprinkler Systems: Conclusion
Do you want to install fire sprinkler systems in your facility? If so, you can consult a professional at F2M Fire and Drafting Designs Inc., and they can install a high precision system at your home and office.
Give us a call at 718-928-3009 right now and talk with our experts.