Abstract: A dry pilot actuator provides for a high liquid to gas trip ratio. The actuator includes a housing having an interior surface defining an internal chamber with a central axis. The valve further includes a first inlet port; a second pilot port and a third drain port, each in communication with the internal chamber. A first actuator seat is disposed along the interior surface of the housing circumscribed about the central axis and a second actuator seat is circumscribed about the first actuator seat. A seal member having a sealed position and an open position is substantially aligned with the central axis of the housing in each of the sealed and open positions. The third port is isolated from the first and second port when the sealing member is in the sealed position, and in fluid communication with the first port when the sealing member is in the open position. The second port is isolated from the first and third ports when the sealing member is in the actuated position.

Abstract: A dry pipe sprinkler system comprises at least one sprinkler head (18); a control valve (10) operable to supply an extinguishant to the sprinkler head; a system of pipes (16) interconnecting the control valve and the sprinkler head, the pipe system comprising a control column (26) and a riser pipe (42); and a pressure control means (38) located downstream of the control valve and upstream of the sprinkler head; wherein the pipe system is arranged to form a manometer which contains a quantity of extinguishant up to a predetermined level (48) in the control column and in the riser pipe; wherein the manometer is arranged such that the creation of a pressure differential across the pressure control means results in a reduction in the extinguishant level in the control column and a rise in the extinguishant level in the riser pipe; and wherein the control valve is adapted to open to supply extinguishant to the sprinkler head when there is a change in the predetermined level of extinguishant in the control column a

Abstract: A dry sprinkler is provided that includes a conduit with a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet, a valve positioned near the fluid inlet and a fire sprinkler head that is positioned near the fluid outlet. The fire sprinkler head is operably connected to the valve by a tie. When the fire sprinkler head reacts to an elevated temperature condition, the tie is engaged and is operable to open the valve. In a normal state, before the fire sprinkler head reacts, the tie can be unbiased toward the fire sprinkler head. The tie can also be non-rigid and/or in a non-compressed state within the conduit. The conduit of the dry sprinkler can be flexible.

Abstract: A fire suppression system and method thereof is provided. The fire suppression system includes at least one inlet pipe, at least one outlet pipe, and a valve. The inlet pipe is at least partially filled with a fluid substance, wherein the fluid substance creates a first pressure in the inlet pipe. The outlet pipe is in fluid communication with the inlet pipe and contains a gaseous fluid, wherein the gaseous fluid creates a second pressure in the outlet pipe. The valve is in fluid communication between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe, wherein the fluid substance enters the outlet pipe through the valve when the second pressure is altered to a predetermined pressure.

Abstract: A dry sprinkler for a fire protection system. The preferred dry sprinkler has a metallic disc annulus positionable within a passageway to skew a central axis of a face of the metallic disc annulus with respect to a longitudinal axis of the dry sprinkler so that an expected minimum flow rate based on a rated discharge coefficient is provided. The dry sprinkler operates to provide an expected flow rate over a range of start pressures. The expected flow rate is based on a K-factor rating. The dry sprinkler provides an acceptable level of fluid flow rate from the expected flow rate based on the K-factor for a range of start pressures.

Abstract: A trim manifold assembly is utilized to facilitate control of the control valve in a fire protection system. The trim manifold assembly utilizes a manifold block with numerous passageways to provide desired flow communication between various components, such as automatic and manual valves, check valves, inlet and exit ports, and sensor ports, by way of non-limiting example. The trim manifold assembly can be cost-effectively manufactured and may require less assembly steps. The trim manifold assembly can facilitate the assembly of a fire protection system and the attachment of the trim manifold assembly to the control valve for operation thereof.

Abstract: A fire protection system includes a dry pipe system and a controlled discharge gas vent. The dry pipe system and controlled discharge gas vent operate using a breathing cycle to displace oxygen and/or water vapor from within the piping network of the dry pipe system. The controlled gas discharge vent allows displacement of pressurized air with nitrogen, for example, using manual or automated processes that can employ one or more sensors. Corrosion resulting from oxygen, water, and/or microbial growth is reduced or nearly eliminated.

Abstract: A ceiling-only dry sprinkler system configured to address a storage occupancy fire event with a sprinkler operational area sufficient in size to surround and drown the fire. The system and method preferably provide for the surround and effect by activating one or more initial sprinklers, delaying fluid flow to the initial activated sprinklers for a defined delay period to permit the thermal activation of a subsequent one or more sprinklers so as to form the preferred sprinkler operational area. The sprinklers of the operational area are preferably configured so as to provide sufficient fluid volume and cooling to address the fire-event with a surround and drown configuration. The defined delay period is of a defined period having a maximum and a minimum. The preferred sprinkler system is adapted for fire protection of storage commodities and provides a ceiling only system that eliminates or otherwise minimizes the economic disadvantages and design penalties of current dry sprinkler system design.

Abstract: A dry sprinkler for a fire protection system having a configuration with one or more coupling arrangements for connection to a fluid supply piping of the system. The dry sprinkler structure further includes an inner surface and inner assembly to provide a preferred discharge performance. The dry sprinkler provides for a flow rate from the outlet of the sprinkler in accordance with the start pressure at the inlet of the sprinkler and the rated discharge coefficient, K factor, ranging between 16.8 GPM/PSI½ and 33.

Abstract: A dry sprinkler assembly includes a housing, a sprinkler head assembly with a sprinkler head and a trigger assembly, and an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly has a sealing subassembly for sealing the inlet port of the housing and is operatively coupled to the trigger assembly such that the sealing subassembly releases the sealing of the inlet port in response to the trigger assembly releasing its closure at the outlet opening. The sealing subassembly moves in a linear path substantially parallel with the central longitudinal axis of the housing when releasing the sealing of the inlet port wherein the flow of fire suppressant through the inlet port and into the fluid flow passage is substantially unimpeded.

Abstract: A dry sprinkler for a fire protection system having multiple alternative coupling arrangements for connection to the fluid supply piping of the system.

Abstract: Systems, methods and aspect thereof for a fire protection system including a releasing control panel. In one aspect a fire protection system for a residential unit as defined in the 2002 Edition of the National Fire Protection Association Standard 13, 13D and 13R having at least one dwelling is provided. The fire protection system preferably includes a liquid supply source along a main line and a network of pipes in communication with the dwelling. The system includes at least one sprinkler in the network to discharge a fluid within about fifteen seconds of sprinkler activation. In addition, the system includes at least one fire control panel disposed between the main line and the pipe network to control release of a fire fighting fluid under various control modes. The system further include at least one fire detector disposed in the at least one dwelling and in communication with the at least one fire control panel.

Abstract: A sprinkler assembly can utilize an adapter having straight threads and an internal sealing member therein to attach the sprinkler to a piping system. The sprinkler may include tapering threads that engage with the straight threads of the adapter and compress the sealing member therein to form a fluid-tight seal. A sprinkler assembly can utilize a fitting that is attached to an extension member containing the sprinkler. The fitting allows the sprinkler and extension member to be coupled to the piping system with a solvent weld. A sprinkler assembly can utilize an attachment system to couple a sprinkler attached to an extension member to a piping system. The attachment system can include a first fitting attached to the connection member, a second fitting attached to the piping system, and a clamping member to clamp the two fittings together.

Abstract: A flexible dry sprinkler includes a flexible tube having an inlet attached to a first end, the inlet defining an inlet orifice operatively sealed by an inlet seal assembly. An outlet is attached to the second end of the flexible tube, and defines an outlet orifice operatively sealed by an outlet seal assembly. A flexible linkage extends from the inlet to the outlet through the flexible tube, and is constructed to operatively release the inlet seal assembly responsive to axial translation of the flexible linkage from a first position to a second position. The flexible linkage is supported by the outlet seal assembly in the first position and wherein the flexible linkage is constructed to axially translate toward the outlet when the outlet seal assembly is released.

Abstract: A differential control valve and method of operation as a residential dry pipe fluid control valve which provides for a high liquid to gas trip ratio. The valve includes a housing having an interior surface defining an internal chamber with a central axis. The valve further includes a first port; a second port and a third port, each in communication with the internal chamber. A first valve seat is disposed along the interior surface of the housing circumscribed about the central axis and a second valve seat is circumscribed about the first valve seat. A sealing member defines a sealed position and an open position with respect to the valve seats. A spring member biases the seal member toward the open position and is disposed between the sealing member and the interior of the housing.

Abstract: A dry sidewall sprinkler and system and methods of installation provide extended coverage for ordinary hazard commodities. The preferred sprinkler and systems provide for sidewall ordinary hazard fire protection beneath a sloped or horizontal overhang extending from a structure by at least ten feet proximate to a garage or loading dock in accordance with applicable sections of NFPA-13 (2007).

Abstract: A dry sprinkler for a fire protection system. The preferred dry sprinkler has a metallic disc annulus positionable within a passageway to skew a central axis of a face of the metallic disc annulus with respect to a longitudinal axis of the dry sprinkler so that an expected minimum flow rate based on a rated discharge coefficient is provided. The dry sprinkler operates to provide an expected flow rate over a range of start pressures. The expected flow rate is based on a K-factor rating. The dry sprinkler provides an acceptable level of fluid flow rate from the expected flow rate based on the K-factor for a range of start pressures.

Abstract: A dry sprinkler is provided having a flexible tube section having openings at opposite ends of the flexible tube section. The sprinkler includes a supply line connection at one end of the tube section, the supply line connection having an opening to receive fluid from the supply line. The sprinkler has a first seal sealed with the supply line connection to prevent fluid from the supply from entering the tube section. A sprinkler head is coupled to the tube section at another end of the tube section opposite the supply line connection, the sprinkler head having a deflector, a second seal sealing an output orifice of the sprinkler head, and a thermally responsive element arranged to maintain the second seal sealed. A fluid is contained in the tube between the first seal and the second seal, wherein the fluid is not susceptible to freezing.

Abstract: A fire protection sprinkler system inerting apparatus and method includes selectively connecting an inert gas source and a gas vent to the fire protection sprinkler system with a valve system and controlling the valve system. The valve system is controlled to selectively connect the inert gas source with the sprinkler system to add inert gas to the sprinkler system to increase the proportion of inert gas in the gas mixture within the sprinkler system and to operate the gas vent to discharge a portion of the gas mixture from the sprinkler system.

Abstract: A dry sprinkler for a fire protection system. The preferred dry sprinkler has a metallic disc annulus positionable within a passageway to skew a central axis of a face of the metallic disc annulus with respect to a longitudinal axis of the dry sprinkler so that an expected minimum flow rate based on a rated discharge coefficient is provided. The dry sprinkler operates to provide an expected flow rate over a range of start pressures. The expected flow rate is based on a K-factor rating. The dry sprinkler provides an acceptable level of fluid flow rate from the expected flow rate based on the K-factor for a range of start pressures.

Abstract: A condensate collector arrangement for a dry pipe sprinkler system comprises a collection chamber and an upstream valve and a downstream valve with an anti-trip arrangement for preventing the upstream valve and the downstream valve to be open at the same time and preferably includes an arrangement to indicate the presence of condensate and a lock for the anti-trip arrangement and an alarm which may be selectively deactivated.

Abstract: A ceiling-only dry sprinkler system configured to address a storage occupancy fire event with a sprinkler operational area sufficient in size to surround and drown the fire. The system and method preferably provide for the surround and effect by activating one or more initial sprinklers, delaying fluid flow to the initial activated sprinklers for a defined delay period to permit the thermal activation of a subsequent one or more sprinklers so as to form the preferred sprinkler operational area. The sprinklers of the operational area are preferably configured so as to provide sufficient fluid volume and cooling to address the fire-event with a surround and drown configuration. The defined delay period is of a defined period having a maximum and a minimum. The preferred sprinkler system is adapted for fire protection of storage commodities and provides a ceiling only system that eliminates or otherwise minimizes the economic disadvantages and design penalties of current dry sprinkler system design.

Abstract: A dry sidewall sprinkler and system and methods of installation provide extended coverage for ordinary hazard commodities. The preferred sprinkler and systems provide for sidewall ordinary hazard fire protection beneath a sloped or horizontal overhang extending from a structure by at least ten feet proximate to a garage or loading dock in accordance with applicable sections of NFPA-13 (2007).

Abstract: A dry sprinkler for a fire protection system. The preferred dry sprinkler has a metallic disc annulus positionable within a passageway to skew a central axis of a face of the metallic disc annulus with respect to a longitudinal axis of the dry sprinkler so that an expected minimum flow rate based on a rated discharge coefficient is provided. The dry sprinkler operates to provide an expected flow rate over a range of start pressures. The expected flow rate is based on a K-factor rating. The dry sprinkler provides an acceptable level of fluid flow rate from the expected flow rate based on the K-factor for a range of start pressures.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for converting a fire suppression system from a single interlock electric or double interlock electro-pneumatic system to a single interlock pneumatic system which draws no electrical power. A pneumatic actuator is in fluid communication with a pressurized piping network and a control valve controlling flow of fire suppressant to the network. The pneumatic actuator is isolated from the piping network by a check valve and a latching solenoid valve. In the event of a power failure the latching solenoid valve is opened, placing the pneumatic actuator in fluid communication with the piping network. Electrical power is drawn only to change the state of the latching solenoid valve, it otherwise draws no power. When the latching solenoid valve is open the pneumatic actuator controls actuation of the control valve, and triggers the control valve when there is a pressure change in the piping network indicative of a fire.

Abstract: A releasing control panel (RCP) for use with residential fire protection systems and methods. The RCP provides a primary communication between a liquid supply source and a network of pipes and sprinklers using a series of three control valves. The RCP also encloses a pressure source providing pressurized gas to an auxiliary line that is isolated from the pipe network and sprinklers, with pressurized gas being provided in response to a pressure in the isolated auxiliary line. The RCP also encloses a secondary communication between the series of the control valves and a drain without the use of a bypass system for the primary communication. The RCP further encloses a power supply and a controller that communications with a fire detector disposed in a dwelling at a defined spacing to a sprinkler.

Abstract: A dry valve is provided for a sprinkler system, including a housing including a valve body having an inlet end and a valve cover having an outlet end. A prime chamber housing is disposed within the housing and defines a prime chamber. A prime piston is disposed within the prime chamber and is movable between a closed position seated against a valve seat and an open position received within the prime chamber. A check valve diaphragm assembly is disposed within the housing and disposed against the prime chamber housing in a closed position and spaced from the prime chamber housing in an open position.

Abstract: A dry sprinkler is provided that includes a structure, a fluid deflecting structure, a locator, a metallic annulus and a shield. The structure defines a passageway extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet and an outlet. The structure has a rated K-factor defining an expected flow of fluid in gallons per minute from the outlet divided by the square root of the pressure of the flow of fluid fed into the inlet of the passageway in pounds per square inch gauge. The fluid deflecting structure is proximate the outlet. The locator is movable along the longitudinal axis between a first position and a second position. The locator supports the metallic annulus. The metallic annulus includes first and second metallic surfaces spaced apart along the longitudinal axis between an inner and outer circumference with respect to the longitudinal axis. The shield has a first face exposed to the inlet and a second face confronting the first metallic surface to define a gap there between.

Abstract: A dry sprinkler installation and sealing device for a cold environment is disclosed. The dry sprinkler installation includes a supply conduit having a first end adapted to communicate with a fire retardant fluid source and a second end supporting a sprinkler head. The supply conduit is dimensioned to extend through an opening in a wall of a cold environment, e.g., a freezer ceiling. A flexible sealing device is positioned about the supply conduit adjacent an exterior surface of the cold environment. A first end of the sealing device is secured about the supply conduit and a second end of the sealing device is secured to an exterior surface of the cold environment. The flexible sealing device allows for radial and axial adjustments to the supply conduit and sprinkler head without comprising the integrity of the sealing device.

Abstract: A dry sprinkler head which comprises a fail safe seat, and is fully adjustable.

Abstract: A sprinkler system and a method for mitigating scaling, microbiological influenced corrosion and oxidative corrosion are disclosed. The system includes a piping network in fluid communication with a source of pressurized water and an air pump. The network is vented to the ambient. The air pump moves initially dry ambient air through the system, either by maintaining a negative or a positive air pressure within the network. The dry air absorbs residual water within the network and exhausts it to the ambient. Rate of air flow through the system is controlled by restrictor elements such as orifices, throttle valves or venturies within the piping network.

Abstract: A condensate collector arrangement for a dry pipe sprinkler system comprises a collection chamber and an upstream valve and a downstream valve with an anti-trip arrangement for preventing the upstream valve and the downstream valve to be open at the same time and preferably includes an arrangement to indicate the presence of condensate and a lock for the anti-trip arrangement and an alarm which may be selectively deactivated.

Abstract: A method of designing a residential fire protection system in a residential dwelling unit are shown and described. The residential dwelling unit has a plurality of compartments as defined in the 2002 National Fire Protection Association Standards 13, 13D, 13R. The method can be achieved by: determining a minimum quantity and location of residential fire sprinklers required to determine a hydraulic demand calculation of the residential fire sprinklers of a piping network filled with water and arranged to protect the plurality of compartments; and specifying the minimum quantity and location of residential fire sprinklers in a piping network filled with a gas. Various aspects of the invention are also shown and described.

Abstract: A sprinkler system comprises a network of CPVC conduits and a plurality of sprinklers. The system includes an electrically activated solenoid control valve to allow fluid to flow in the pipe network. One or more fire detectors operate independently of the condition of the sprinklers. Upon detection of an incipient fire situation, a fire detector sends an electrical signal to cause activation of the control valve. Upon activation of the control valve, fire suppression fluid is caused to flow through the conduits before the incipient fire situation matures into a sprinkler-triggering event. The cooling effect of fluid flowing through the conduit enables the conduit to resist structural failure prior to sprinkler deployment. The control valve may be disposed at a remote location in the sprinkler line and be operable as part of an inspector's test connection.

Abstract: A dry pipe sprinkler system comprises at least one sprinkler head (18); a control valve (10) operable to supply an extinguishant to the sprinkler head; a system of pipes (16) interconnecting the control valve and the sprinkler head, the pipe system comprising a control column (26) and a riser pipe (42); and a pressure control means (38) located downstream of the control valve and upstream of the sprinkler head; wherein the pipe system is arranged to form a manometer which contains a quantity of extinguishant up to a predetermined level (48) in the control column and in the riser pipe; wherein the manometer is arranged such that the creation of a pressure differential across the pressure control means results in a reduction in the extinguishant level in the control column and a rise in the extinguishant level in the riser pipe; and wherein the control valve is adapted to open to supply extinguishant to the sprinkler head when there is a change in the predetermined level of extinguishant in the control column a

Abstract: A fire suppression sprinkler system convertible between a wet and a dry mode of operation is disclosed. The system features a field convertible valve having a bypass loop with a bypass valve for selectively configuring the valve for wet or dry mode operation. For dry mode operation, the bypass valve is open. The field convertible valve also has a system actuator, a gas control valve and a water supply shut-off valve which are open in the dry mode. In the wet mode of operation, the bypass valve is open and the gas control and water supply shut-off valves are closed. The field convertible valve operates in a latch mode controlled by the system actuator in the dry mode, and as a flapper valve in the wet mode of operation. A method of converting the mode of operation of the sprinkler system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A non-differential dry pipe valve and fire suppression system are provided. The fire suppression system includes at least one inlet pipe, at least one outlet pipe, and a first valve assembly. The inlet pipe is at least partially filled with a fluid substance, wherein the fluid substance creates a first pressure in the inlet pipe. The outlet pipe is in fluid communication with the inlet pipe and contains a gaseous fluid, wherein the gaseous fluid creates a second pressure in the outlet pipe. The first valve assembly is in fluid communication between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe, wherein the fluid substance enters the outlet pipe through the valve when the second pressure is altered to a predetermined pressure.

Abstract: A ceiling-only dry sprinkler system configured to address a storage occupancy fire event with a sprinkler operational area sufficient in size to surround and drown the fire. The system and method preferably provide for the surround and effect by activating one or more initial sprinklers, delaying fluid flow to the initial activated sprinklers for a defined delay period to permit the thermal activation of a subsequent one or more sprinklers so as to form the preferred sprinkler operational area. The sprinklers of the operational area are preferably configured so as to provide sufficient fluid volume and cooling to address the fire-event with a surround and drown configuration. The defined delay period is of a defined period having a maximum and a minimum. The preferred sprinkler system is adapted for fire protection of storage commodities and provides a ceiling only system that eliminates or otherwise minimizes the economic disadvantages and design penalties of current dry sprinkler system design.

Abstract: A valve has a valve body that defines a chamber. The chamber has an inlet and an outlet through which a flow path passes. A seat is positioned within the chamber and surrounds the flow path. A closing member is positioned within the chamber and a biasing member biases the closing member into an open position away from the seat. The biasing member exerts a biasing force on the closing member which exceeds the force exerted on the closing member by a first fluid which enters the inlet and flows past the closing member and through the open valve. The biasing force is less than the force exerted by a second fluid having one or more different characteristics from the first fluid. Force exerted by the second fluid on the closing member overcomes the biasing force and moves the closing member into engagement with the seat, closing the valve.

Abstract: A ceiling-only dry sprinkler system configured to address a storage occupancy fire event with a sprinkler operational area sufficient in size to surround and drown the fire. The system and method preferably provide for the surround and effect by activating one or more initial sprinklers, delaying fluid flow to the initial activated sprinklers for a defined delay period to permit the thermal activation of a subsequent one or more sprinklers so as to form the preferred sprinkler operational area. The sprinklers of the operational area are preferably configured so as to provide sufficient fluid volume and cooling to address the fire-event with a surround and drown configuration. The defined delay period is of a defined period having a maximum and a minimum. The preferred sprinkler system is adapted for fire protection of storage commodities and provides a ceiling only system that eliminates or otherwise minimizes the economic disadvantages and design penalties of current dry sprinkler system design.

Abstract: A fire fighting system comprising a fixed fire fighting system with a plurality of spray heads (15) as well as means (10, 12, 14A, 14B, 14C) for leading a fire fighting medium from a fire fighting medium source (11) to the spray heads (15) as well as at least one pump means (10) between the fire fighting medium source (11) and the spray heads (15), which system further comprises spray heads (5) arranged in a mobile unit (1), such as a vehicle, a carriage connectable to a vehicle, a train or a train car, and means (2, 4) for leading a fire fighting medium to the spray heads (5). The system comprises means (7, 7?, 8, 9) for connecting the spray heads (5) of the mobile unit (1) to the circuit of the fixed fire fighting system.

Abstract: A fire protection system includes a dry pipe system and a controlled discharge gas vent. The dry pipe system and controlled discharge gas vent operate using a breathing cycle to displace oxygen and/or water vapor from within the piping network of the dry pipe system. The controlled gas discharge vent allows displacement of pressurized air with nitrogen, for example, using manual or automated processes that can employ one or more sensors. Corrosion resulting from oxygen, water, and/or microbial growth is reduced or nearly eliminated.

Abstract: A horizontal dry fire protection sprinkler includes a housing having a vertical segment and a horizontal segment extending generally perpendicular to the vertical segment. The vertical segment defines an inlet opening. A plug member is disposed in the inlet opening for sealingly closing the inlet opening. A sprinkler is attached to the horizontal segment and includes a base having a passage extending therethrough and defining an outlet opening. A cap is disposed in the outlet opening and a heat sensitive trigger engages the cap. A translation mechanism is disposed in the housing and engaging the cap and supporting the plug member in the inlet opening, wherein when the heat sensitive trigger releases support of the cap, the translation mechanism is allowed to move within said housing to allow the plug member to dislodge from the inlet opening.

Abstract: A dry-type vacuum sprinkler system is provided, from which water remaining in a secondary pipe system can be easily removed and shortcomings typically seen in a dry-type sprinkler system are dissolved. The dry-type vacuum sprinkler system of the invention is secured from a quick fire extinguishment operation at the time of a fire. The sprinkler system of the invention includes a negative pressure state maintenance member for maintaining air charged in the secondary pipe system in a negative pressure state. The negative pressure state is defined as a normal state in the invention. The negative pressure state maintenance member includes a suction pipe 53 which extends to an upper position of the secondary pipe system 24, and communicates with the secondary pipe system 24, and a suction pump 51 provided on the suction pipe 53. The suction pump 51 suctions the air of the secondary pipe system 24 from the upper position of the secondary pipe system 24.

Abstract: A method for activating a sprinkler system comprises maintaining a liquid extinguishant in system pipes under a standby pressure that is less than the operating pressure, determining an arrangement of the sprinklers that will control a fire, and opening the sprinkler system valve in response to a drop in pressure in each of the pipes to which at least one of the sprinklers of the arrangement is connected. An alternate method comprises providing a bypass around the system valve, and opening the system valve in response to (1) a predetermined flow of liquid extinguishant through the bypass and (2) a drop in pressure in the sprinkler system below a predetermined pressure. In a variation of the alternate method, the system valve is opened in response only to a predetermined flow of liquid extinguishant through the bypass.

Abstract: An arrangement for testing a fire suppression sprinkler system includes a conduit for supplying a flow of fire suppression fluid to at least one sprinkler. A sensor is configured to sense the flow of the fire suppression fluid to the at least one sprinkler. The sensor has a first condition indicative of a predetermined volume of flow of the suppression fluid to the at least one sprinkler and a second condition indicative of a volume of flow of the fire suppression fluid to the at least one sprinkler less than the predetermined volume of flow. An actuator causes the sensor to be in the first condition or the second condition. A signaler provides an indication to a user that the sensor is in at least one of the first condition and the second condition.

Abstract: A hazard control system according to various aspects of the present invention is configured to deliver a control material in response to detection of a hazard. In one embodiment, the hazard control system comprises a pressure tube having an internal pressure and configured to leak in response to exposure to heat. The leak changes the internal pressure and generates a pneumatic signal. A fire detector may also detect a fire condition associated with fire. A valve may be coupled to the fire detector and the pressure tube. The valve is configured to change the internal pressure and generate the pneumatic signal in response to a signal from the fire detector. The pneumatic signal triggers a delivery system to deliver the control material.

Abstract: An inert gas Fire Protection System (FPS) uses an inert gas rather than air in a dry or pre-action type FPS. The inert gas inhibits oxidation, galvanic corrosion, and/or bacterial growth, and hence mitigates Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion (MIC) and galvanic corrosion in the FPS piping. A zone purging valve, which may include a gas purity analyzer, is disposed at the end of each zone in the FPS. A controller over-pressurizes the FPS with inert gas, and bleeds the gas through the zone purging valves to a predetermined supervisory pressure. The pressurize/purge cycle is repeated to ensure inert gas of a predetermined purity level reaches all areas within the FPS. The purity of the inert gas is periodically measured in bleed operations. The inert gas may comprise Nitrogen, which additionally dries out residual water in the FPS due to a low dew point, further inhibiting MIC.

Abstract: A fire protection system comprises a supply pipe having a first fluid pressurized to a first pressure and a network of pipes having a plurality of sprinklers. The network of pipes have a second fluid being pressurized to a second pressure at approximately 5.5 times the first pressure. The system further comprises a dry pipe valve including a body defining a passage extending along a longitudinal axis between an inlet coupled to the supply pipe and an outlet coupled to the network of pipes. The inlet has an inlet diameter of approximately WD inches and a seat disposed in the body has a seating surface with a diameter AD approximately less than two times WD inches. The dry pipe valve further includes a clapper pivotable about an axis orthogonal to the longitudinal axis between a first position occluding the passage when the ratio of the second pressure to the first pressure is at least 5.5 and a second position permitting fluid flow through the passage when the ratio is less than 5.5.

Abstract: A ceiling-only dry sprinkler system configured to address a storage occupancy fire event with a sprinkler operational area sufficient in size to surround and drown a fire. The system and method preferably provide for the surround and drown effect by activating one or more initial sprinklers, delaying fluid flow to the initial activated sprinklers for a defined delay period to permit the thermal activation of a subsequent- one or more sprinklers so as. to form the preferred sprinkler Operational operational area. The sprinklers of the operational area are preferably: configured so as to provider provide sufficient fluid volume and cooling to address the fire event with a surround and drown configuration,. The defined delay period is of a defined period having a maximum and a minimum.