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CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

1.1. BACK GROUND OF THE STUDY

Over the years, Automatic Sprinkler System have gained tremendous

popularity and importance in protecting both life and property against fire. Various

agencies and organization all over the world which goals is to come up with

standardize parameters to all fire protective equipment installed in all structures

around the globe have studied the capabilities of Automatic Fire Sprinkler System

and proved its reliability in fire protection. Numeric figures coming from the

researches and surveys of those organizations, such as NFPA, that compares the

value of the unsprinkled and sprinkled building structures in saving life and

properties were all favored to the later one.

The installation of Automatic Fire Sprinkler System in Cebu Institute of

Technology Mechanical and Chemical Engineering Building is divided into two task.

First, is to design and install Automatic Fire Sprinkler System that will effectively

serves its purpose, which is to protect the semi-old structure both its laboratory

equipments and occupants against the disasters of fire. Second is to justify its

installation cost of investment considering that the building structure is already

existed and for many years since its rehabilitation from fire accident dated back

2002 till present haven't experience again such casualty.


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An Automatic Fire Sprinkler System design involves an integration of both

hydraulic and mechanical equipments that will automatically supply water to all pipe

networks and released the water to every sprinkler outlets in such away that it will

serves to protect certain area from fire. The installation of sprinkler system includes

a water supply such as a gravity tank, fire pump, reservoir, pressure tank and/or

connection by underground piping to a city main water supply. The sprinkler

network, includes the piping itself, must be designed hydraulically to allow equal

distribution throughout the sprinkler outlets and to minimize pressure losses that

could cause abnormal operation to the system. The planning for the entire sprinkler

system can be broadly grouped into three categories:

a. The sprinkler system itself;

b. Hazard of occupants; and

c. Location of Sprinklers.

All these categories must be analyzed in an engineering manner and must comply to

all the code of standards required by an authorized agencies.

Designing an Automatic Fire Sprinkler System in a multipurpose and semi-

wooden structures is a challenging part to the Engineer. It requires high analytical

decisions to come up with a design that is centralized considering that certain areas

of the building are of different fire hazard category. Specifically, the building has the

following areas: office rooms, class rooms, engine room, electrical rooms, laboratory

rooms, library, and chemical rooms.

In addition to these design problem, the cost of investment must be


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justifiable to the Institution considering that the building structure where the

Automatic Fire Sprinkler System is to be installed is a semi-wooden, half of it is

made of old and light materials specially on the second floor of the building. The

justification must involved an Engineering means of economic study to consider all

angles of the costing, in order to come up with a design that has less cost but high

of quality.

1.2. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

To design and install an effective and reliable Automatic Fire Sprinkler System

in Cebu Institute of Technology Mechanical and Chemical Engineering Building.

The Automatic Fire Sprinkler System design must effectively serves its

intended purpose which is to protect the semi-old building structure, with half of it is

made of wooden or light materials, to both its occupants and equipments against

fire destruction. The investment cost of the design must be justified considering that

the building is already existed and for many years since its rehabilitation from

accidental fire dated back year 2002, have not yet again experiencing that related

problem. In addition to it, the design must pass both the standard requirements by

the law stated on the PSME code, section 3.0 and the rules required by BFP of the

Philippines.


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1.3.THEORITICAL FRAMEWORK

Figure 1: Theoretical/Conceptual Framework

In figure 1, it shows the overall concept of the study and how the theories

and discoveries that essential in the success of the study are related to one another.

In installing an Automatic Fire Sprinkler System to a certain establishment, first and

foremost to be done is to review and evaluate the structure. The data that must be

gathered out of the evaluation are the data that are very crucial in the design

process such as, the building location, the overall evaluation of occupants to be

protected by AFSS and the review of the building structure parameter which include

the materials of the structure, the area positioning, situation of the area, and

building existing hydraulic system. These variables are needs to be carried with

certain code of standards. Engineering works such as the sprinkler system must be

evaluated based on standard codes, either from the locally authorized organization


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PSME or the internationally recognized as the NFPA codes. These are necessary for

additional safety tolerance and as required by law. All those data that are needed

were considered to be an input data.

Upon gathering the process variable, certain engineering procedures must be

done to analyze the problems existed at the beginning of the study, which is to

create an AFSS for the CIT Mechanical building. The design process start with

evaluation of occupants hazard which is one of the criteria in selecting the type of

sprinkler system to be used and the number of sprinkler that must be installed. The

second step is to calculate the hydraulic parameter to obtain the sizes of the pipes

and ratings of the systems components. It is also part of the design to evaluate and

come up with management strategies which will manage the installation process,

part of it is the cost analysis and evaluation. The design process must be evaluated

on a quantitative basis with a corresponding engineering analysis.

As the results obtain on the design process are focused on one primary

objective, which is to install an effective and reliable Automatic Fire Sprinkler System

for the Cebu Institute of Technology Mechanical Engineering building

1.4. ASSUMPTION

The study assumed that the Mechanical Engineering building of Cebu Institute of

Technology is required for the installment of an Automatic Sprinkler System, thus

the Institution will automatically be the market of the study. It is also assumed that

the existing structure will serve its purpose as a classroom, office rooms and


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laboratory room including the generator sets, and will not have an alternation on its

function. This is because the design will serve the existing type occupant and is

design to protect it from fire. Another assumption was the market trend for the cost

of the materials will not change for the period of purchasing and installation of the

project. Furthermore, the design of the Sprinkler System is approved by the BFP and

has all the legal requirements of the government.

1.5. SCOPE AND LIMITATION

The duration of the study is from July 2010 October 2010. The period of the

study limits the proponent to an Automatic Fire Sprinkler System design that can be

finished within the period. The scope of the study only focus on the data that were

gathered at the project site particularly the occupants and the structural parameters.

This limits the design into the system that will protect a two storey building having

an estimated area of 432 sq. m. and an occupant belong into a Light Hazard

Category. The location of the project site is also considered on the design, it is on

the location within a kilometer radius from a fire department. Also, the material

costing were evaluated are only based on the Cebu City market, prices may vary

from location or within a certain period. The code standards being used are based

on the standard published on PSME code under chapter 9 in titled Fire Protection

since other codes such as the internationally recognized NFPA codes are not

accessible, since the copy of the codes needs to be bought at a high price or the


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web access is only accessible through its members. Nevertheless, PSME codes have

also referred to NFPA standards. The proponents have only focuses in the

installation of a Fire Sprinkler System, other fire protective device such as smoke

detectors, alarms and other related equipments are not included. Furthermore, the

system design is based upon the evaluation of the building current situation, any

differences from other conventional designs or from the codes of standards itself is

justified by the designer.

1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The study offer several benefits to the Cebu Institute of Technology

particularly to the occupants of the Mechanical Engineering Buildings. These benefits

includes: the immediate identification and control of a developing fire. Sprinkler

systems respond at all times, including periods of long occupancy. This is a safety

feature that will definitely protect life and properties of occupants. Significantly less

heat and smoke will be generated when the fire is extinguished an early stage. This

is an advantage to the laboratory and classroom area where large volumes of

occupants are expected and heat sensitive equipments both in Mechanical and

Mining were located. The enhancement in life safety will protect staff, visitors,

students and parents or even the fire fighters. They will be subjected to less danger

when fire growth is checked and suppressed. This may be good attraction for the

Institution. Moreover the sprinkler controlled fires are less damaging than fire in


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non-sprinkler protected buildings. This results in lower insurance reimbursements.

Insurance under writer will usually offer reduced premiums in sprinkler protected

properties which can save large amount of capital.

Institution

The institution itself will benefit from the project through the protective effect

that the automatic sprinkler system provides. It protects the property of the

institution, the mechanical engineering building from the disasters brought by fire.

These may result to lower insurance reimbursement. Insurance company usually

offers reduced premiums in sprinklered properties. This is a big savings to the

institution which will attract investors or rather equipment donation for the reason

that the equipment which they will donate will be protected. The sprinkler system

also may be used as an advancement of technology which will attract students not

just for much safer environment but for the fame brought by an advance facilities

specially that this institution is known for its engineering graduates.

Occupants

The occupants, namely the students, faculty, staff and visitors that are

housing on the sprinklered building will be much more confident in staying on the

establishment for the reason that they are protected. Students and instructors

performing laboratory rooms will be confident in performing highly combustible

experiments because they know that the area is protected by automatic sprinkler.


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Parents

The parents will now have an ease in sending their sons and daughters to the

institute for the reason that they are protected.

Community

The community in Cebu City or perhaps the province will also benefit from

the protective effect of the project since some of its people are schooling or also

occupying the building.

Government

The government will benefit the project through their fire protective arm, the

BFP, since they are responsible in protecting the community from fire.

1.7. DEFINITION OF TERMS

Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)

BFP is a government agency that is responsible for the protection of the

community against any fire related incidents. Part of its job is to enforce the law

stated in the Fire Code of the Philippines.

the world's leading advocate of fire prevention and is an authoritative source

on public safety which codes and standards have helped to protect both people and


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property around the world.

Class A Fire

A class of fire which fuel elements involved ordinary combustible materials

such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber and plastics.

Class B Fire

A class of fire which fuel elements involved flammable liquids and gasses.

Class C Fire

A class of fire which fuel elements involved energized electrical equipment.

Class D Fire

A class of fire which fuel elements involved combustible metals such as

magnesium, sodium, potassium, titanium and other similar metals.

Dry Stand Pipe

A type of stand pipe system in which the pipes are not normally filled with

water. Water is introduced into the system thru fire service connections when

needed.

Exposure

The exterior presence of combustibles which, if ignited, could cause damage

top the storage building or its contents.

Extra Combustible

Are materials which, either by themselves or in combustion with their


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packaging are highly susceptible to ignition and will contribute fuel to fire.

Fire

Is the rapid oxidation of a material in the chemical process of combustion,

releasing heat, light, and various reaction products.

Materials

The necessary things that are used in constructing the system.

Moderate Combustible

Are materials or their packaging, either of which will contribute fuel to fire.

NationalFire ProtectionAssociation(NFPA)

Is an international standards development organization that serves as

Non-Combustibles

Are materials and their packaging which will neither ignite nor support

combustion.

Occupants

Anything that is housed in the buildings.

OccupantLoad

Is the maximum number of persons that may be allowed to occupy a

particular building, structure, or facility or portion thereof.

OrdinaryCombustibles

This term designates commodities, packages or storage aids which have hats

of combustion.


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Packaging

This term designates any commodity wrapping, cushioning or container.

SprinklerSystem

A sprinkler system, for fire purpose, is an integrated system of one or more

water supplies for fire use, underground and overhead piping designed in

accordance with fire protection engineering standards.


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CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LETERATURE

AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEM

INTRODUCTION

Automatic sprinklers are devices for automatically distributing water upon a

fire in sufficient quantity either to extinguish it entirely or to control its spread.

The water is fed to the sprinklers through a system of piping, ordinarily

suspended from the ceiling, with the sprinklers placed at intervals along the pipes.

The orifice of the fusible link automatic sprinkler is normally closed by a disk or cap

held in place by a temperature sensitive releasing element.

The terms sprinkler protection, sprinkler installations and sprinkler systems

usually signify a combination of water discharge devices (sprinklers), one or more

sources of water under pressure, water flow controlling devices (valves), distribution

piping to supply the water to the discharge devices and auxiliary equipment, such as

alarms and supervisory devices.

DEVELOPMENT OF AUTOMATIC SPRINKLERS

The forerunners of the automatic sprinkler were the perforated pipe and the

open sprinklers. Perforated pipe systems were used in textile mills throughout New


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England as a means of fire protection from 1850 to 1880. The systems were not

automatic; the discharge openings in the pipes often clogged with rust and foreign

materials and water distribution was poor. Open sprinklers, an improvement over

perforated pipes, consisted of metal bulbs with numerous perforations attached to

piping and intended to give improved water distribution. This system was only

slightly better than the perforated pipe.

The idea of automatic sprinkler protection, whereby heat from a fire opens

one or more sprinklers and allows the water to flow, dates back to about 1860. Its

practical application however, began about 1878.

The first automatic sprinkler system was patented by Philip W. Pratt of

Abington, MA, in 1872.Henry S. Parmalee of New Haven, Connecticut is considered

the inventor of the first practical automatic sprinkler head. Parmalee improved upon

the Pratt patent and created a better sprinkler system. In 1874, he installed his fire

sprinkler system into the piano factory that he owned.

Until the 1940s, sprinklers were installed almost exclusively for the protection

of commercial buildings, whose owners were generally able to recoup their expenses

with savings in insurance costs. This sprinkler, while very crude when compared

with modern devices gave generally good results and proved conclusively that

automatic sprinkler protection was both practical and valuable.Over the years, fire

sprinklers have become mandatory safety equipment, and are required by building

codes to be placed in hospitals, schools, hotels and other public buildings.


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VALUE OF AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION

Automatic sprinklers are particularly effective for life safety because they give

warning of the existence of fire and at the same time apply water to the burning

area. With sprinklers there are seldom problems of access to the seat of the fire or

of interference with visibility for fire fighting due to smoke. While the downward

force of the water discharged from sprinklers may lower the smoke level in a room

where a fire is burning, the sprinklers also serve to cool the smoke and make it

possible for persons to remain in the area much longer than they could if the room

were without sprinklers.

Automatic sprinklers, properly installed and maintained, provide a highly

effective safeguard against the loss of life and property from fire. The National

Fire Protection Association(NFPA) has no record of multiple death fire (a fire

which kills three or more people) in a completely sprinkled building where the

system was properly operating, except where an explosion occurred or flash fire

killed victims prior to the systems operation.

Mentioned of NFPA, it is an international standards development

organization that serves as the world's leading advocate of fire prevention and is an

authoritative source on public safety which codes and standards have helped to

protect both people and property around the world.

In addition to the saving in direct fire losses due to sprinkler protection, there

is saving represented by the freedom from business interruption. There also is an


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undetermined but possibly even greater reduction in conflagration and exposure

losses, which reasonably may be attributed to automatic sprinkler protection. The

destruction of property and its adverse association and sometimes permanent effect

upon business often is a great hardship not only to the owner, tenants and

employees but also to the community as a whole.

A properly installed sprinkler system operating in a timely manner will

generate less water damage than the later application of hose streams by fire

officers. Accidental discharge of water from an associate sprinkler system due to

defects in sprinklers, water control devices, piping or associated equipment, is very

rare.

Here in the Philippines, a law was formulated to govern, regulate, and require

the building owners to install the necessary fire protective equipment and devices

which includes Automatic Sprinkler System. This law is Republic Act No. 9514

also known as AN ACT ESTABLISHING A COMPREHENSIVE FIRE CODE OF

THE PHILIPPINES, REPEALING PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1185 AND

FOR OTHER PURPOSES, under this law:

Section 7. Inspections, Safety Measures, Fire Safety, Constructions, and

Protective and/orWarning Systems. - As may be defined and provided in the

Rules and Regulations, owners, administrators or occupants of buildings,

structures and their premises or facilities and other responsible persons shall be

required to complywith the following, as may be appropriate:


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type of system includes piping for carrying water from a source of supply to

the sprinklers in the area under protection. The five major classifications of

systems are :

(1)Wet pipe systems These systems employ automatic sprinklers

attached to a piping system containing water under pressure at all times.

When a fire occurs, individual sprinklers are actuated by the heat, and

water flows through the sprinklers immediately. This type of system is

generally used whenever there is no danger of the water in the pipes

freezing; and wherever there are no special conditions requiring one of

the other types of systems.

(2)Dry pipe systems These systems have automatic sprinklers attached

to piping which contains air or nitrogen under pressure. When a sprinkler

is opened by heat from a fire, the pressure is reduced to the point where

water pressure on the supply side of the dry pipe valve can force open the

valve. The water flows into the system and out through any opened

sprinklers. They are used only in freezing environment. According to fire

records, more sprinklers open on the average at fires with dry pipes than

with wet pipe systems: this tends to show that the control of fire is not as

prompt with dry pipe systems.


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(3)Preaction systems These systems are systems in which there is air in

the piping that may or may not be under pressure. When a fire occurs, a

supplementary fire detecting device in the protected area is actuated. This

opens a water control valve which permits water to flow into the piping

system before a sprinkler is activated. When sprinklers are subsequently

opened by the heat of the fire, water flows through the sprinklers

immediately the same as in wet pipe system. Preaction systems are

designed primarily to protect properties where there is danger of serious

water damage as a result of damaged automatic sprinklers or broken

piping.

The principal difference between a preaction system and a dry pipe

system is that in the preaction system, the water supply valve is actuated

independently of the opening of sprinklers; that is, the water supply valve

is opened by the operation of an automatic fire detection system and not

by the fusing of a sprinkler.

The preaction system has several advantages over a dry pipe system.

The valve is opened sooner because the fire detectors has less thermal lag

than sprinklers. The detection system also automatically rings an alarm.

Fire and water damage is decreased because water is on the fire more

quickly and the alarm is given when the valve is opened. Because the


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sprinkler piping is normally dry, preaction systems are nonfreezing, and

therefore, applicable to dry pipe service.

(4)Deluge Systems These systems have all sprinklers open at all times.

When heat from a fire actuates the fire detecting device, the deluge valve

opens and water flows to, and is discharged from all sprinklers on the

piping system, thus deluging the protected areas.

The purpose of a deluge system is wet down an entire fire area by

admitting water to sprinklers that are open at all times. By using sensitive

detectors operating on the rate-of-rise or fixed temperature principle, or

controls designed for individual hazards, it is possible to apply water to a

fire more quickly and with wider distribution than with systems whose

operation depends on opening of sprinklers only as the fire spreads.

Deluge systems are suitable for various extra hazard occupancies in

which flammable liquids or other hazardous materials are handled or

stored and where there is a possibility that fire may flash ahead of the

operation of ordinary automatic sprinklers.


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Automatic Sprinklers

Automatic sprinklers are thermosensitive devices designed to react at

predetermined temperatures by automatically releasing a stream of water

and distributing it in specified patterns and quantities over designated areas.

Since they were introduced in the latter part of the 19 th century, the

performance and the reliability of automatic sprinklers has been continually

improved through experience and the efforts of manufacturers and testing

organizations.

Operating Principles of Automatic Sprinklers

Under normal conditions, the discharge of water from an automatic

sprinkler is restrained by a cap or valveheld tightly against the orifice by a

system of levers and links or other releasing devices pressing down on the

cap and anchored firmly by struts on the sprinkler.

Attached to the frame of the sprinkler is a deflector or distributor

against which the stream of water is directed and converted into a spray

designed to cool or protect a certain area. The amount of water discharged

depends upon the flowing water pressure and the size of the sprinkler orifice.


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Operating Elements

The most common types of operating elements are the fusible and the

frangible types. Other styles of the thermosensitive operating elements may

be, or have been employed to provide automatic discharge, such as bimetallic

discs, fusible alloy pellet or chemical pellets.

(a) Fusible sprinklers A common fusible style automatic

sprinkler operates upon the fusing of a metal alloy of

predetermined melting point. Various combinations of levers,

struts and links or other soldered members are used to reduce

the force acting upon the solder so that the sprinkler will be

held closed with the smallest practical amount of metal and

solder. This minimizes the time of operation by reducing the

mass of fusible metal to be heated.

(b) Frangible sprinklers A second style of operating element

utilizes a frangible bulb. The small bulb, usually of pyrex glass,

contains a liquid which does not completely fill the bulb, leaving

a small air bubble entrapped in it. As the liquid is expanded by

heat, the bubble is compressed and finally absorbed by the

liquid. As soon as the bubble disappears, the pressure rises


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infinitely and the bulb shatters, releasing the valve cap. The

exact temperature is regulated by adjusting the amount of

liquid and the size of the bubble when the bulb is sealed.

Temperature Rating of Automatic Sprinklers

Automatic sprinklers have various temperature ratings that are

based on standardized tests in which a sprinkler is immersed in a liquid

and the temperature of the liquid is raised very slowly until the

sprinkler operates.

The recommended maximum room temperature is generally

closer to the operating temperature for frangible bulb than for soldered

fusible-element sprinklers because solder begins to lose its strength

somewhat below its actual melting point.

The temperature rating of all solder style automatic sprinklers is

stamped upon the soldered link. For other types of thermosensitive

elements, the temperature rating is stamped upon some of the

releasing parts.


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Types of Sprinklers

(a) Standard Sprinklers Due to the design of the deflector, the

solid stream of water issuing from the orifice of a standard

sprinkler is broken up to form an umbrella shaped spray. The

pattern is roughly that of a half sphere filled with spray.

Relatively uniform distribution of the water at all levels below

the sprinklers is characteristic of a standard sprinkler. Standard

sprinklers are made for installation in an upright or pendent

position.

(b) Recessed sprinklers A recessed sprinkler has part or most

of the body of the sprinkler, other than the part which connects

to the piping, mounted within a recessed housing. Operation is

similar to that of standard pendent sprinkler.

(c) Flushed sprinklers Sprinklers of special designs but with the

same water discharge pattern as standard pendent sprinklers

are available for use wet system piping concealed above the

ceilings in areas where appearance is important. The special

design allows a minimum projection of the working parts of the


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sprinkler below the ceiling in which it is installed without

adversely affecting the heat sensitivity or the pattern of water

distribution. Only the ceiling plate and thermosensitive assembly

are visible from the floor when these sprinklers are installed.

When a fire occurs and the thermosensitive element operates,

the deflector drops to a position below the ceiling and the water

discharge commences.

(d) Concealed Sprinklers A concealed sprinkler has its entire

body, including the operating mechanism, above its concealing

cover plate. When a fire occurs, the cover plate drops, exposing

the thermosensitive assembly.

(e) Ornamental Sprinklers Ornamental sprinklers are

automatic sprinklers that have been decorated by attachments

or by plating or enamelling to give desired surface finishes.

(f) Dry Sprinklers Dry sprinklers are used to provide sprinkler

protection freezing areas where individual sprinklers are

supplied from a drop or riser pipe from a wet pipe system

outside the freezing area. A seal is provided at the entrance of


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the dry sprinkler to prevent water from entering until the

sprinkler fuses.

(g) Large Drop Sprinklers The deflector of a large drop

sprinkler is specially designed, and that combined with the

velocity as to enable the spray to penetrate strong up drafts

generated by high challenge fires.

(h) Sidewall Sprinklers Sidewall sprinklers have the

components of standard sprinklers except for a special deflector

which discharges most of the water toward one side in a

pattern somewhat resembling one quarter of a sphere. A small

proportion of the discharge wets the wall behind the sprinkler.

The forward horizontal range is greater than that of a standard

sprinkler. Sidewall sprinklers are used in areas where the usual

sprinkler pipes could be objectionable in appearance. The

directional character of the discharge from sidewall sprinklers

make them applicable to occasional special protection problems.

They may be installed to give discharge in any desired direction.

(i) Extended Coverage Sidewall Sprinklers These are

special sidewall sprinklers used in the horizontal position that


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have larger areas of coverage than allowed for conventional

sidewall sprinklers.

(j) Open Sprinklers Open sprinklers are standard automatic

sprinklers, or sidewall automatic sprinklers with the valve cap

and heat responsive elements omitted. Open sprinklers are used

in deluge systems. The water distribution pattern and the

density of the discharge of the open system are designed to be

appropriate for the hazard to be protected.

(k) Intermediate Level Sprinklers Intermediate sprinklers,

sometimes referred to as rack storage sprinklers, have large

discs designed to shield the thermosensitive assembly from

impingement from the spray of sprinklers, suspended at higher

levels. Without the protective discs, the impinging water would

cool the thermosensitive element and retard sprinkler operation.

(l) Quick Response Sprinklers Except for the sensitivity of the

fusible element, quick response sprinklers possess the same

characteristics as a standard sprinkler of the same type. Quick

response sprinklers will respond more quickly to a fire than

standard sprinklers.


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Hazards of Occupancy

Automatic sprinkler systems of one type or another have been designed to

extinguish or control practically every known type of fire in practically all

materials in use today. It is essential, however, that for a given hazard the

proper system be used.

For the purposes of evaluating hazards, three main classes of occupancy are

usually recognized in most design codes. Schedules of pipe sizes, spacing of

sprinklers, sprinkler discharge densities and water supply requirements differ

from each in order to provide protection appropriate for the hazard. The three

main classifications are:

a. Light Hazard Class includes occupancies where the quantity and

combustibility, or both, of materials is low and fires with relatively low rates

of heat release are expected.

b. Ordinary Hazard Class in general, includes ordinary mercantile,

manufacturing and industrial properties.

c. Extra Hazard Class involve a wide range of variables which may produce

severe fires.


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Some conditions require more than ordinary sprinkler protection in order to

provide dependable fire extinguishmentand control. Sprinkler experience shows

that occupancies which involve high piled combustible stocks flammable and

combustible liquids, combustible dusts and fibres, large quantities of light or

loose combustible materials and chemicals and explosives can permit rapid

spread of fire and often cause the opening of excessive numbers of sprinklers

with disastrous results. Complete automatic sprinkler protection with strong

water supplies will usually control fires in occupancies containing these

hazardous conditions, provided the severity of the hazards is plainly recognized

and the sprinkler system is appropriately designed for the hazards.

Location of Sprinklers

The fundamental idea in locating and spacing sprinklers in a building is to

make sure there is no unprotected place, however unexpected, where a fire can

start. In other words, no matter where a fire starts, there must be one or more

sprinklers located in relation to that particular point that will operate promptly

and discharge water when heat from the fire reaches them. Furthermore, there

should be no direction that fire can spread in which it will not encounter other

sprinklers to stop its progress.


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Most codes treat specifically a number of locations where the need for

sprinklers is sometimes questioned. These include locations such as stairways

and vertical shafts; deep, blind and concealed spaces; ducts; basements or

subfloor spaces, attics and lofts; and under decks, tables, exhaust hoods,

canopies and outdoor platforms.

The location of sprinklers on a line of pipe, and the location of the lines in

relation to each other determine the size of area protected by each sprinkler.

Most codes give a definite maximum area of cover for each sprinkler, depending

principally upon the severity of the occupancy hazard and, to a lesser degree, on

the type of ceiling or roof construction above the sprinklers.

In addition to limits on the maximum distance between sprinklers or lines and

between lines, certain limits of clearance have been established between

sprinklers and structural members, such as beams, girders and trusses, to avoid

obstructing water being discharged from sprinklers. If a sprinkler is placed too

closely to a beam that deflects the normal discharge patterns of the water, the

area of protection for that sprinkler is considerably reduced and fire has a chance

for additional growth. This caused more sprinklers to operate than should have

been necessary.


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The distance between sprinklers and the ceiling is important. The closer

sprinklers are placed to the ceiling the faster they will operate. However, except

for continues smooth ceilings, locating them too close to the ceiling is more likely

to result in serious interference to lateral distribution of water from sprinklers by

structural members


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CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Locale

The proposed Automatic Fire Sprinkler System is to be installed in the existing

two-storey Mechanical Engineering Building of Cebu Institute of Technology

University along Natalio Bacalso Avenue Barangay Labangon, Cebu City. The

building was erected dated back year 1965 together with the erection of the new

four storey main building of Cebu Institute of Technology, the old name of the

University, which main campus back then at C. Padilla St. The transferring of the

main campus was made possible through the effort and dedication of the late 2nd

CIT which is now a University. President Don Rodulfo T. Lizares Sr.

The building was previously named as the High School Annex Building, the

office of the registrar, high school faculty rooms and classrooms.

Devastated from an accidental fire last November 26, 2003, the building was

then renovated and reconstructed a new name of Mechanical Engineering Building.

At present the building is currently housing the following: At the ground floor the

Mechanical Engineering Department Office, Mechanical Engineering (ME) Laboratory

Room, Fluid Mechanics Laboratory Room, ME Equipment Room, Fluid Equipment

Room, Materials Testing Laboratory and ME Research and Development Center,

Automation and Instrumentation Laboratory Room, Machine shop and Workshop

Area, Generator Set, The Fabrication Welding and Foundry Area, Mining Engineering


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Department Office, Mining Engineering Laboratory and 6 Lecture Rooms at the

second floor.

3.2 Research Design:

3.2.1. Gathering of Data

The data are gathered through building evaluation, investigation, research,

survey, and personal experience . The structural parameters are gathered through

series of personal investigation of the building itself. It dimensions were verified but

its existing building plan and layouts. Other parameters that are not documented are

surveyed by the proponents, just like the number of occupants, its capacity and the

kinds of occupants housing within the building. The codes and theories are collected

through research and internet surfing. Some experts on the field of Automatic

Sprinkler System Design suggest technical aspects of the design.

3.2.2. Concrete Design

The design process are based on the basic design principles published on

NFPA codes in international standard which is equivalent to the PSME Code under

the Chapter of Fire Protection here in the Philippines.

3.2.3. Feasibility Study

The study involves the potential benefits of the installation of an Automatic

Fire Sprinkler System in the Mechanical Engineering Building of Cebu Institute of

Technology. It will document the possible impact of the project not just for the


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over and under assumption and wrong computations. Those are some possible risk

that must be justified.


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CHAPTER IV

TECHNICAL STUDY

4.1 Building Description

Is a two storey building with an approximate floor area of 18 X 48 sq. meters.

It is currently housing the following: at the ground floor area are the Mechanical

Engineering Department Office, Mechanical Engineering Laboratory Room, Fluid

Mechanics Laboratory Room, Mechanical Engineering Equipment Room, Fluid

Equipment Room, Materials Testing Laboratory and Mechanical Engineering

Research and Development Office, Machine shop and Workshop Area, Generator

Set, Fabrication, Welding and Foundry Area, Mining Engineering Laboratory Room

and 6 Lecture Rooms at the second floor.

4.1.1 Floor Plan

(See attached layout)

4.1.2 Elevation View

(See Fig. )

4.1.3 Occupants of the building

The occupants in the buildings involved all things that housed within the

structure that are combustible or may cause fire. The table below tabulates the

types of occupants occupying the building with corresponding estimated numbers.


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Table 4.1: Building Occupants

Description Approximate No.

People 500

Computers 20

Appliances (fans, radio, projectors,

speakers, computers, etc.)

30

ME Equipments(refrigeration unit,

steam turbin prototype,arconditioning

unit,internal combustion

engines,viscosimeter,solar

panel,compressors,etc.)

10

Fluids Lab Equipments(

flowmeter,hydraulic apparatus,air flow

apparatus, flow channels, pumps,

blowers,etc.)

10

Machine Shop Equipments (lathe

machines, drill presses, shapers, milling

machines, power saw, etc.)

50

Welding Machine 3

Foundry and Metal Equipments 20

Paper Documents (folders, journal, 100


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books, etc.)

Wooden Materials (chairs, tables, book

shelves, etc.)

500

Mining Engineering Laboratory

Equipments(excavation equipments,

mineral processes apparatus, tri-

pod,etc.)

10

Total : 1253

4.1.4 Hazards in the Building

The hazard of the building describes the degree of combustibility of the

occupants or the building itself. It evaluates, based on standards specified in the

PSME Codes, the materials that the structure and its occupants is made and relate

this to its capability to produce fire. The hazard of the Occupancies is used in

determining the capacity of the sprinkler system to be installed, including the

volume of suppressing element that the pump must supply.


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Table 4.2: Hazard of Occupancies

Type of Hazard Description Approximate No.

Light Hazard Educational areas, small

libraries, offices and

other non-combustible

contents of the area

500 pcs.

(maximum)

Ordinary Hazard Group

2

Machine shop and metal

working areas

70 pcs.

(moderate)

Extra Hazard Combustible liquids used

in the experiments

5 gallons

4.1.5 Existing Fire Protection Equipment / System

One important specification in fire protection system is the installation of

other fire protective equipments other than the sprinkler system, infact it is also

required by the law under Fire Code of the Philippines. It includes, fire alarms,

portable fire extingueshers, sprinkler system,smoke detectors, and other similar

devises.

The table below tabulates the other existing fire protective equipments with

their corresponding number.


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Table 4.3: Existing Fire Protective Equipments

4.1.6 Fire Incident in the Building

The only fire incident that happen since its construction by the year 1965 was

last November 25, 2003 at 12:00 A.M. The damage brought by the accident were

approximated at about P400,000, with no casualty. The fire incident has brought a

new rebirth for the building as it was reconstructed and housed a new set of

occupants. Since its rehabilitation, being the new Mechanical Engineering Building,

the building until present have not yet experienced similar to 2003 incident.

4.2. AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER DESIGN

The type of sprinkler system to be used in the designated building is a wet

pipe system. It is choosen for the reason that this type of system is commonly used

and adaptible to the climate in our cour country, with its feasibility to the type of

structure. The specification of the design is as follows.

Fire Protection Equipment Approximate No.

portable fire extinguisher 10


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start

stop

4.2.1. SYSTEM FLOW CHART

false

true

false

true

As temp reaches

135oF or 65

oC

If temperature is > 72 C?

Automatic activationof sprinkler system

Control valves

Deliver water to every sprinkler heads and suppress

the fire for at least 30 minutes

Delivers water to every FHC

If fire does not suppress

with in 30 min.

Seek for BFP assistanceManually close the valves


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4.2.2. PARTS OF THE SYSTEM

The section discuss the function of every parts of the sprinkler system and

sequentially arranged according to its order of usage from the source of water

towards every sprinkler head to perform its primary function which is to suppress

fire and protect the building.

CISTERN TANK

Is a water storage tank that provides the volume of water needed for the

system.

AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER RISER

Is the main pipe where water supply is connected.

RISER NIPPLE

Are pipe fittings that connects the riser to the other pipe networks.

FLOOR CONTROL VALVE

Valves that control or regulate the flow of water from the riser to the

crossmain.

HANGER

Are steel bars assembly that supports every suspended pipe.

CROSSMAIN

It is connected to the riser. It is where the branch lines are connected.

FIREHOSE CABINET


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It contains the long fire hose, fire extinguisher and it is connected to the

crossmain.

BRANCHLINES

Pipes that are connected to the crossmain and has smaller diameter compare

to the crossmain.

SIDEWALL TYPE SPRINKLER HEAD

A type of sprinkler head that is use for rooms that has no ceiling and upright

type is not appreciable to use.

PENDENT TYPE SPRINKLER HEAD

A type of sprinkler head use for buildings with ceiling.

END CUP-FLUSHING CONNECTION

Pipe fittings that are connected at the end of every pipe that limits the flow of

water.

4.2.3HYDRAULIC CALCULATIONS

Area coverage per sprinkler: =4 x 4 m

=13.12 x 13.12 ft

=172.22 ft/sprinkler

The area of operation for Ordinary Hazard group 1 occupancies based on

Figure 1.2 is selected to have a value of 2500 sq. ft to compensate the

additional hazard brought by the mechanical laboratory equipments housed in


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the building.

Figure 1.2:Area/Density Curve

No. of sprinkler to be hydraulically calculated:

=

=

= 14.52

= 15 sprinklers

The discharge density in each sprinkler is found out to be .0775gpm/sq. ft

as traced on Figure 1.2 .

Area of operationArea covera e er

2500 ft172.22ft/sprinkler


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Note:

Hydraulic calculations are based on the most remote sprinklers from the

system riser and the farthest from fire pump to ensure that the design

consideration used in hydraulic calculation are based on sprinklers having

maximum pressure loss.

Variables used for calculations:

Q =discharge volume, gpm

P =pressure, psi

k =sprinkler constant, gpm/psi1/2

Leq. = length equivalent of pipe and fittings, ft

C =pipe constant

=120 for Black Iron Pipe (B.I. pipe)

d =inside diameter, in

For Extended Coverage Pendent sprinklers based from product data of

Viking Corporation, a manufacturer of sprinkler head, the sprinkler

constant is

K = 8.0 gpm/psi1/2

At s1:

Q1 = (area coverage/sprinkler)(sprinkler density)

= (172.22 ft) (.0775gpm/sq. ft)


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P2=P1+PL1

P2=2.78+.76

P2=3.54psi

Q2 =83.54

=15.05 gpm

The equivalent pipe length from point 3 to point 2 is 9.84 ft.

Leq=9.84 ft

PL 3-2 =

= 1.04 psi

The pressure loss is too large, thus adjust to the next pipe size, 1

inch.

PL 3-2 =

= .43 psi

The pressure loss is acceptable.

Ats3:

Q3 =KP3

Where:

P3=P2+PL 3-2

P3=3.54+.43

P3= 3.97 psi

Q3 =83.97


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=15.94 gpm

The equivalent pipe length from point A to point 3 is 4.92 ft.

Leq=4.92 ft

PL A-3 =

=0.49 psi

At node A:

QA =Q1 + Q2 + Q3

= 13.35 gpm + 15.05 gpm + 15.94 gpm

Q4 =44.34 gpm

Where:

PA=P3+PL A-3

PA=3.97+.49

PA= 4.46psi

The equivalent pipe length from point B to point 3 is:

Leq = 4.92 ft + Equivalent length of pipe fittings at Node A, a branch tee +

13.12 ft

Note:

Equivalent length of pipe fittings is taken from Table 1.5:

Table 1.5: Equivalent Pipe Length Chart


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At inside diameter of 1

inch.

Leq = 4.92 ft + 8ft + 13.12 ft

Leq = 26.04 ft

PL B-3 =

=3.49 psi

The pressure loss is too large, thus adjust to the next pipe size, inch.

At inside diameter of 1 inch.

Leq = 4.92 ft + 10 ft + 13.12 ft

Leq = 28.04 ft

PL B-3 =

PL B-3= .67 psi



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At Node B:

Pressure ate Node B must be based from the pipe networks to the branch line

1 since it has longer connections than the pipe networks of branch line 2. This

corresponds to larger head loss. As a practical example large head loss must be

assumed in hydraulic calculation.

PB=P3+PL B-3

PB=3.97+.67

PB= 4.64 psi

Note: The Pipe connections of branch line 2, 3, 4, and 5 are just the same as the

pipe connections on branch line 1. Therefore it follows that the v volumetric flow

rate of each sprinkler heads on these branch lines and its pressure requirements is

equals to the values obtained on branch line 1.

At S4:

Q4 = 13.35 gpm

P4 =2.78 psi

PL 5-4=0.76 psi

At S5:

Q5 = 15.05 gpm

P5 =3.54 psi


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PL 6-5=.43 psi

AtS5:

Q6 = 15.94 gpm

P6 =3.97 psi

PL 7-6=0.49 psi

QB =Q1 + Q2 + Q3 + Q4 + Q5 + Q6

= 13.35 gpm + 15.05 gpm + 15.94 gpm+ 13.35 gpm + 15.05 gpm +

15.94 gpm

= 88.68 gpm

The equivalent pipe length from point C to point B is:

Leq = Equivalent length of pipe fittings at Node B, a branch tee + 13.12 ft


Leq = 10 ft + 13.12 ft

Leq = 23.12 ft

PL C-B =

=2.042 psi



Leq = 12 ft + 13.12 ft

Leq = 25.12 ft

PL C-B =


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PL C-B = .75 psi


At Node C:

PC=PB+PL C-B

PC=4.64 +.75

PC= 5.39 psi

At S7:

Q7 = 13.35 gpm

P7 =2.78 psi

PL 8-7=0.76 psi

At S8:

Q8 = 15.05 gpm

P8 =3.54 psi

PL 9-8=.43 psi

At S9:

Q9 = 15.94 gpm

P9 =3.97 psi

PL C-9=0.49 psi

QB =QB + Q7 + Q8 + Q9

= 88.68gpm+ 13.35 gpm + 15.05 gpm + 15.94 gpm

= 133.02 gpm

The equivalent pipe length from point D to point C is:


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PL 11-10 =0.76 psi

AtS11:

Q11 = 15.05 gpm

P11 =3.54 psi

PL 12-11 =.43 psi

AtS12:

Q12 = 15.94 gpm

P12 =3.97 psi

PL D-12 =0.49 psi

QB =QC+ Q10 + Q11 + Q12

= 133.02gpm+ 13.35 gpm + 15.05 gpm + 15.94 gpm

= 177.36 gpm

The equivalent pipe length from point E to point D is:

Leq = Equivalent length of pipe fittings at Node C, a branch tee + 13.12 ft

At inside diameter 3 inch.

Leq = 15 ft + 13.12 ft

Leq = 28.12 ft

PL E-D =

=1.24psi



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At inside diameter of inch.

Leq =17 ft + 13.12 ft

Leq = 30.12 ft

PL E-D =

PL E-D = .63psi


At Node E:

PE=PD+PL E-D

PC=6.12 +.63

PC= 6.75 psi

At S13:

Q13 =13.35 gpm

P13 =2.78 psi


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PL 14-13 =0.76 psi

AtS14:

Q14 = 15.05 gpm

P14 =3.54 psi

PL 15-14 =.43 psi

AtS15:

Q15 = 15.94 gpm

P15 =3.97 psi

PL E-15 =0.49 psi

QE =QD+ Q13+ Q14 + Q15

= 177.36gpm+ 13.35 gpm + 15.05 gpm + 15.94 gpm


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= 221.7 gpm

Pump Rating Calculation:

PFP = Pe + PL (E-FP) + Pstatic

Where:

PFP = Operating Pressure of the Pump

P L (E-FP) =

QT = QE + 6QFHC

NOTE: The standard volume of water that comes out from every

fire hose cabinet is 50 gpm as stated on PSME Code Chapter 9.

QT = 221.7 gpm + 6 (50 gpm)

= 521.7 gpm


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The diameter to use in calculating for the pressure loss is the diameter

of the pipe at point E.

d = 3 inches

Leq (E-FP) = 187.008 ft + 2Leq (elbow) + 2Leq (FCV) + 2Leq (check valve)

Leq (E-FP) = 187.008 ft + 2(8 ft) + 2(1 ft) + 2(19 ft)

Leq (E-FP)=243.008 ft

P L (E-FP) =

P L (E-FP) = 37.32 psi

Pstatic = (specific weight of water, ) (riser elevation)

= (62.4 )(26.25 ft)

= 1637.8


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= 11.37

Pstatic = 11.37 psi

PFP = 6.75 psi + 37.32 psi + 11.37 psi

PFP = 55.44 psi

FPPower Rating =

Where:

Tdh=Total Dynamic Head

Tdh=

Tdh= )

Tdh=

ep = Pump Effeciency

Note: Based from the experts in pump installation, the general accepted

assumption on estimated lowest efficiency for low pump rating is more or less 60%-

70%. Therefore assume 65%

ep = 65%


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FPPower Rating = ;

= (19355.98 W)

= 25.95 hp

FPPower Rating =26 hp

For Jockey Pump:

The specification for the jockey pump is merely based from the practices and

experiences of the experts in sprinkler system installation. The accepted assumption

for parametric values of jockey pump is as follows:

Q = 15-18 gpm

Operating pressure = operating pressure of the Fire Pump + 10 psi

PowerJP = 1-2 hp

Thus, using the average values for Q and PowerJP

Q = 16.5 gpm

Operating pressure = 55.44psi + 10 psi

= 65.44 psi

PowerJP= 1.5 hp


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Hydraulic Calculation Summary

Table x Title: FLOW RATE and PRESSURE of each head

SPRINKLER no. FLOW RATE, gpm PRESSURE, psi

1 13.35 2.78

2 15.05 3.54

3 15.94 3.97

4 13.35 2.78

5 15.05 3.54

6 15.94 3.97

7 13.35 2.78

8 15.05 3.54

9 15.94 3.97

10 13.35 2.78

11 15.05 3.54

12 15.94 3.97

13 13.35 2.78

14 15.05 3.54

15 15.94 3.97

Table 4.2.4 Title: SIZES and HEADLOSS of each pipe

PIPE no. PIPE SIZE, inch HEAD LOSS, psi


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B1 0.76

B2 .43

BA 0.49

B3 0.76

B4 .43

BB 0.49

B5 0.76

B6 .43

BC 0.49

B7 0.76

B8 .43

BD 0.49

B9 0.76

B10 .43

B11 0.49

CA .67

CB .75


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CC .73

CD .63

CE-FP 5 37.32

4.2.5 Parts Specifications

4.2.5.1 Cistern Tank

Based from the system design, the Automatic Sprinkler System must operate

within 30 minutes. Thus taken from total volumetric flow required by the system

obtained in hydraulic calculation, the area of the fire reserve tank also known as

cistern tank is as follows:

Atank = Qt(30 min)

=(521.7 gpm)

(30min)

=2094.1038

= 59.3

The area of the cistern tank must not be less than 59.3 square meter.

4.2.5.2 Fire Pump and Jockey Pump

As determined on the hydraulic calculation, the fire pump must discharge a


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volume of water not less than 521.7 gpm (gallons per minute) to sustain the

operation of the system. It must maintain an operating pressure of not less that

55.44 psi with a rated power rating of at least 26 hp(hours power).

In the case of the Jockey Pump its parametric requirement is as follows: it

must deliver of at least 16.5 gallons of water, an operating pressure of not less than

65.44 psi, and a power rating of 1.5 hp.

The specification of the pump is summarized on the table below.

PUMP SCHEDULE

PUMP HP psi GPM HZ VOLT PHASE

Fire Pumpelectric driven

centrifugal pump type withAutomatic controller &

accessories

26 55.44 521.7 60 220 3

Jockey Pumpelectric driven

centrifugal pump type

1.5 65.44 16.5 60 220 3

Table X: Pump Schedule

4.2.5.2 Pipes and Fittings

Riser

The riser stand pipe is a schedule 40 black iron pipe with an

inside diameter of 5 inches. The riser has an approximate length of 8m

as indicated on systems layout plan. All connections on the riser are

designed so as the pipe-fittings such as, valves, elbows, branch tees,


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and other similar fittings will fit to the given specification of the riser.

Cross-main

The pipes in the cross-main is a schedule 40 black iron pipe

having an inside diameter as indicated by the hydraulic calculation. The

detailed pipe dimensions of each pipe of the cross-main are shown on

the design layout.

Branch Line

The pipes in the branch line is a schedule 40 black iron pipe

having an inside diameter as indicated by the hydraulic calculation. The

detailed pipe dimensions of each pipe of the cross-main are shown on

the design layout.

Pipe Fittings

All the pipe fittings are made of cast iron with sizes as indicated

on hydraulic calculations. The detailed dimensioning and connections

of the pipe fittings are shown on the design layout as presented. The

figure below is some of the pipe fittings used in the system which is

manufactured by Viking corporation.


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4.2.5.3 Sprinkler Heads

The system uses side wall, upright, and pendent type sprinkler heads

with a rated operating temperature of 650 C and a K-factor of 8.0. The brand

of the sprinkler head is chosen to be Viking Microfast, an international

manufacturing company supplying all sprinkler system components.


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4.2.5.3 Fire Hose Cabinet

The specification of the fire hose cabinet including its components are

based from the standard specification required by the PSME Code stated on

Chapter 9.