Abstract: Quick release valve for a sprinkler head having a frame adapted to support a thermal responsive actuating element. The quick release valve includes a saddle adapted to contact an end of the actuating element, a bushing having a first surface portion adapted to face the flow passage wall of the frame and a second surface portion adapted to face the saddle, an O-ring for sealing the interface between the flow passage wall and the bushing first surface portion, and another O-ring for sealing the interface between the saddle and the bushing second surface portion. The bushing is axially displaceable within the flow passage. A split retaining ring is insertable in the flow passage to axially displace the bushing so as to exert a compressive preload on the actuating element.

Abstract: The latch holding a sprinkler head valve in a closed position is released by a temperature responsive controller. The temperature responsive controller controls actuation of an explosive detonator which in turn fractures a frangible member forming a part of said latch whereby a rapid response is provided.

Abstract: A sprinkler head has a valve member retained in a closed position by a latch. The latch is released by a temperature responsive controller in the form of a bulb of frangible material and containing a heat expansible fluid. Compressive loads on the bulb are reduced whereby the bulb may be smaller and thinner than prior bulbs.

Abstract: A quick release mechanism for a sprinkler head comprises a frangible element and a heat expansible fluid contained therein. A thermally conductive element or heat sink extends through a wall of the frangible element. A portion of the heat sink is in contact with the expansible fluid and another portion of the heat sink is disposed outside the wall. The heat sink conducts heat from the outside of the frangible element to the heat expansible fluid within so as to accelerate expansion of the fluid and rupture of the frangible element.

Abstract: An automatic on-off sprinkler head is disclosed for discharge of water for extinguishing a fire in the vicinity in which the delivery of water to and through the head is controlled by alternative temperature responsive elements, namely a snap-disc and a fusible alloy, which normally remains in an inactive position, the temperature responsive element actuating a seal plunger to retain water in a priming or control chamber, the priming or control chamber having therein a flexible tubular valve capable of being compressed to and retained in a closed position by the pressure in the priming or control chamber, the flexible tubular valve providing a boundary of the priming or control chamber, the flexible tubular valve providing a passageway connecting the inlet of the sprinkler head with the discharge orifice nozzle for straight through flow when the flexible tubular valve is in uncompressed or open condition, the priming or control chamber being in communication with the inlet for pressure variation accommodation

Abstract: An automatic sprinkler head is disclosed for the discharge of water for extinguishing a fire in which the delivery of water through the head is controlled by a fusible element, but with improved provisions for preventing fluid leakage.

Abstract: An automatic sprinkler head is disclosed for the discharge of water for extinguishing a fire in which the delivery of water to and through the head is controlled by a fusible element to which heat is supplied by a plurality of vanes.

Abstract: A quick release valve for a sprinkler head wherein a thermal compressive element is supported by a Belleville spring and a seal cap diverts fluid pressure to the spring periphery.