Beruflich Dokumente
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This document includes material (including illustrations) based on Australian Standards AS 2118.11999 and AS 2118 - 2006. The copyright owner, Standards Australia Limited, has consented to the
reproduction of that material in this document for the purpose of allowing it to be issued for public
review. However, Standards Australia Limited does not accept responsibility for the technical
content of this public review document.
PREFACE
This reference document was prepared by the Australian Building Codes Board. The
document has been prepared in consideration of the content of AS2118.1 (2006) Automatic
Fire Sprinkler Systems with modifications as necessary to render it suitable for adoption
within the Building Code of Australia (BCA).
The document includes changes to AS2118 (1999) that reflect advances in technology and
also refines the content of AS2118 (1999) for clarity and conciseness.
The document also reflects the ABCB objective to include all public policy matters within
the BCA.
Changes to Sections 1 and 2
(a) Preface and Foreword amended to reflect the goals of the BCA
(b) Revised Scope to reflect the requirements of the ABCB
(c) New definitions added for the terms Appropriate Authority, Building Solution and
Required Duration and an amended definition for Design Area,
(d) General classifications of systems have been relocated to the BCA
(e) Required duration times have been relocated to the BCA
Changes to Sections 3, 5, 6, 8, 10 and 12
(a) Various editorial changes for consistency with the BCA
(b) Certain requirements for the operation of alarms have been relocated to the BCA
(c) Required duration times have been relocated to the BCA
(d) Permitted exceptions in Section 3 have been reduced to reflect safety and
compatibility issues.
(e) Tables for sprinkler clearances in Section 5 have been expanded to include Light
Hazard spray sprinklers.
(f)
Concealed space protection has been revised to take into account potential changes
during the life of the building.
(g) Requirements for systems interface alarm signals have been added to Section 8 to
align with current practice.
(h) The design process for ordinary hazard in Section 10 has been simplified to align with
the previously adopted approach in Section 9 particularly in regard to the number of
sprinklers in operation.
(i)
Changes to Section 4
The restructured Section 4 discards the principle of graded water supplies. Instead, it
accepts a single town main supply meeting prescribed criteria, including the capability of
simultaneously supplying specified hydrant flows, as the benchmark reliable supply.
Other acceptable sources of water supply are selected to equate to this reliability
benchmark. For example, when a town main supply requires boosting by automatic pumps
in order to meet the specified flow and pressure demand, two parallel-connected full
capacity pumps are required, one electric motor-driven and the other diesel engine-driven.
Where a higher degree of water supply reliability is required (in the case, for example, of a
high-rise apartment building), Section 4 introduces the concept of dual water supplies.
Dual water supplies are not duplicate supplies, but are considered to be more reliable
than single supplies. This is illustrated in the case of pump suction tanks which, as single
supplies, may be 2/3 capacity (if provided with adequate automatic inflow) and supply two
automatic full capacity pumps, one electric motor-driven and the other diesel engine-driven.
The corresponding dual water supply arrangement would involve two-pump suction tanks
(each 2/3 capacity and not requiring automatic inflow) supplying two automatic full
capacity pumps, one electric motor-driven and the other diesel engine-driven.
Changes to Sections 7 and 13
AS 2118.8, AS 2118.9 and AS 2118.10 have been included in this Standard, consistent with
consolidating the AS 2118 sprinkler suite of Standards.
Section 14
Consistent with the elements comprising design, installation and commissioning of
automatic fire sprinkler systems, Section 14 addresses commissioning and acceptance
testing of sprinklers and covers the hydrostatic pressure test, pre-test equipment checks,
equipment tests and water supply tests. Personnel involved in the commissioning process
have a commissioning check list to follow to ensure that, when complete, the system is
ready for operation.
Appendices A and B have been deleted in accordance with the ABCB Protocol for
Development of Reference Documents
Appendix C Graphic representation of hydraulic characteristics is new and should be of
assistance when interpreting the requirements of Sections 4 and 12.
Appendix D has been deleted
The suite of sprinkler installation systems and components, when completed, will
incorporate the current AS 4118 series and will comprise two sets, all within the AS 2118
designation, as follows:
AS 2118 Automatic fire sprinklerSystems
Part 1:
General systems requirements
Part 2:
Drenchers
Part 3:
Deluge
Part 4:
Residential
Part 5:
Home (Supersedes Domestic)
Part 6:
Combined sprinklers and hydrants
AS 4118 Automatic fire sprinklerComponents
Part 1.1: Sprinklers and sprayers
Part 1.2: Alarm valves (wet)
Part 1.3: Water motor alarms
Part 1.4: Valve monitors
Part 1.5: Deluge and pre-action valves
Part 1.6: Stop valves and non-return valves
Part 1.7: Alarm valves (dry)
Part 1.8: Pressure reducing valves
Part 2.1: PipingGeneral
The terms normative and informative have been used in this Standard to define the
application of the appendix to which they apply. A normative appendix is an integral part
of a Standard, whereas an informative appendix is only for information and guidance.
CONTENTS
PREFACE
FOREWORD
14
15
1.1 SCOPE................................................................................................................................ 15
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS.......................................................................................... 15
1.3 DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................................... 16
1.3.1 Alarm signalling equipment (ASE) ............................................................................... 16
1.3.2 Alarm valve................................................................................................................... 16
1.3.3 Appropriate Authority ................................................................................................... 16
1.3.4 Automatic inflow........................................................................................................... 16
1.3.5 Building owner.............................................................................................................. 16
1.3.6 Building Solution .......................................................................................................... 16
1.3.7 Compartment................................................................................................................. 16
1.3.8 Design area.................................................................................................................... 17
1.3.9 Design density ............................................................................................................... 17
1.3.10 Designated building entry point (DBEP) ..................................................................... 17
1.3.11 Designated site entry point (DSEP) ............................................................................. 17
1.3.12 Effective height ........................................................................................................... 17
1.3.13 Fire and draft stop ....................................................................................................... 17
1.3.14 High-rise ..................................................................................................................... 17
1.3.15 Installation................................................................................................................... 17
1.3.16 K factor (nominal) ....................................................................................................... 17
1.3.17 Listed .......................................................................................................................... 18
1.3.18 Maximum flow rate of the system (Qmax.) .................................................................... 18
1.3.19 Monitoring centre ........................................................................................................ 18
1.3.20 Multiple controls ......................................................................................................... 18
1.3.21 Multistorey .................................................................................................................. 18
1.3.22 Net positive suction head (NPSH) ............................................................................... 18
1.3.23 Open joists and exposed common rafters..................................................................... 18
1.3.24 Post or box pallet......................................................................................................... 18
1.3.25 Required duration of operation .................................................................................... 18
1.3.26 Special sprinkler .......................................................................................................... 18
1.3.27 Special sprinkler system .............................................................................................. 19
1.3.28 Sprayer ........................................................................................................................ 19
1.3.29 Sprinkler-protected building ........................................................................................ 20
1.3.30 Sprinkler system .......................................................................................................... 20
1.3.31 Standard sprinkler........................................................................................................ 20
1.3.32 Standard sprinkler system............................................................................................ 22
1.3.33 Thermal sensitivity ...................................................................................................... 22
SECTION 2 SPRINKLER SYSTEM DESIGN DATA
23
30
37
58
5.7.19 Theatres and music halls (protection on the stage side of the proscenium wall) .......... 75
5.7.20 Cold chambers............................................................................................................. 76
SECTION 6 SPRINKLERS, SPRAYERS AND MULTIPLE CONTROLS
78
6.1 GENERAL.......................................................................................................................... 78
6.2 TYPES OF SPRINKLERS, SPRAYERS AND MULTIPLE CONTROLS ......................... 78
6.2.1 Standard sprinklers ........................................................................................................ 78
6.2.2 Special sprinklers .......................................................................................................... 78
6.2.3 Sprayers......................................................................................................................... 78
6.2.4 Multiple controls ........................................................................................................... 79
6.3 HYDRAULIC CHARACTERISTICS OF STANDARD SPRINKLERS ............................ 79
6.4 APPLICATION OF SPRINKLER TYPES ......................................................................... 79
6.5 TEMPERATURE RATINGS.............................................................................................. 80
6.6 COLOUR CODING............................................................................................................ 80
6.7 ANTI-CORROSION TREATMENT OF SPRINKLERS .................................................... 80
6.8 SPRINKLER GUARDS...................................................................................................... 80
6.9 ESCUTCHEON PLATE ASSEMBLIES ............................................................................ 80
6.10 PROTECTION AGAINST FROST .................................................................................. 81
SECTION 7 PIPING
82
97
109
112
116
140
156
A1 GENERAL...................................................................................................................... 156
A2 REQUIREMENTS.......................................................................................................... 156
A3 NOTES ON THE USE OF TABLES A1 AND A2 ......................................................... 156
159
163
FOREWORD
Automatic fire sprinklers can provide a level of fire safety for the occupants of buildings, and
fire service personnel engaged in search, rescue and firefighting operations whilst providing a
level of fire protection for buildings and structures.
The scope of property protection provided through compliance with this document is
deemed to be consistent with the respective performance requirements of the BCA.
Compliance with other applicable legislation should not be assumed.
When designing a sprinkler system there is a need to consider how other fire safety systems
may impact on the function and operation of a sprinkler system. Other active fire safety
systems that can either interface or integrate with a fire sprinkler system, include; fire
automatic heat and smoke detection systems, emergency warning and intercommunication
systems and smoke management systems.
15
SECTI O N
SCOPE
AND
GENE RAL
1.1 SCOPE
This Standard specifies a deemed-to-satisfy Building Solution for the design and
installation of automatic fire sprinkler systems in buildings and structures listed in BCA
Table E1.5.
1.2 REFERENCED DOCUMENTS
The following documents are referred to in this Standard:
AS
1074
1281
1349
1432
1516
1579
1650
1670
1670.1
1674.1
1724
Cast grey iron pressure pipes and fittings with bolted gland joints
1735
1834
1873
2118
2118.1
2118.3
2118.6
2201
2201.2
2419.1
2544
2941
3688
4041
Pressure piping
4118
4118.1.1
4118.1.2
4118.1.3
Fire
Part
Part
Part
sprinkler systems
1.1:
ComponentsSprinklers and sprayers
1.2:
ComponentsAlarm valves (wet)
1.3:
ComponentsWater motor alarms
16
4118.1.4
4118.1.5
4118.1.6
4118.1.7
4118.1.8
4118.2.1
Part 1.4:
Part 1.5:
Part 1.6:
Part 1.7:
Part 1.8:
Part 2.1:
ComponentsValve monitors
ComponentsDeluge and pre-action valves
ComponentsStop valves and non-return valves
ComponentsAlarm valves (dry)
ComponentsPressure-reducing valves
PipingGeneral
4428
4428.1
4428.6
4254
AS/NZS
1167.1
Welding and Brazing Filler Metals Part 1 Filler metal for brazing and
braze welding
1668.1
Part 1
3000
3013
Electrical installationsClassification
performance of wiring systems.
3500
3500.1
3500.1.2
of
the
fire
and
mechanical
1.3 DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Standard the following definitions apply.
1.3.1 Alarm signalling equipment (ASE)
Equipment complying with AS 4428.6, Alarm signalling equipment.
1.3.2 Alarm valve
A non-return valve that allows the water to enter the installation and operate the alarms
when the installation pressure falls below the water supply pressure.
1.3.3 Appropriate Authority
The relevant authority as determined by the building regulatory legislation in each State and
Territory.
1.3.4 Automatic inflow
Automatic flow into a tank to partially make up, within a prescribed time, water drawn off
under operational conditions.
1.3.5 Building owner
The owner of a building or the authorised representative of the owner.
1.3.6 Building Solution
As defined within the Building Code of Australia
1.3.7 Compartment
A space that is enclosed by walls and a ceiling. The walls of the compartment enclosure
may have openings to an adjoining space, provided there is a minimum depth of 200 mm
17
1.3.14 High-rise
A multistorey building exceeding an effective height of 25 m (see Clauses 1.3.12
and 1.3.21).
1.3.15 Installation
The portion of a sprinkler system downstream from and inclusive of a control assembly.
1.3.16 K factor (nominal)
A constant that defines the pressure and flow characteristics of a sprinkler, as determined
by the formula
K=
Q
P
18
where
Flow, L/min
Pressure, kPa
1.3.17 Listed
Sprinkler equipment or materials that are demonstrated to meet the requirements of
AS 4118 or have been tested in a specified manner and found suitable for use.
1.3.18 Maximum flow rate of the system (Q max.)
The maximum flow rate of the system (Q max.) occurs at the point of intersection of the
maximum water supply curve and the hydraulically most favourable system requirement
curve when the hydraulic characteristics are represented in accordance with the
requirements of Clauses 12.7 and 12.9.
1.3.19 Monitoring centre
A facility that receives signals from a monitored site and transmits signals to a fire dispatch
centre.
1.3.20 Multiple controls
Heat-sensitive sealed valves that control a single outlet or multiple outlets using either a
glass bulb or a soldered link or lever as the heat-sensing device.
1.3.21 Multistorey
A building with a rise of more than two storeys, which may also be a high-rise building (see
Clause 1.3.14) or with more than two storeys below the floor of the lowest storey providing
egress to a road or open space.
1.3.22 Net positive suction head (NPSH)
The total inlet head, plus the head corresponding to the atmospheric pressure, minus the
head corresponding to the vapour pressure. NPSH, as well as inlet total head, is referred to
the reference plane. It is necessary to make a distinction between
(a) required net positive suction head (NPSHR)a function of pump design, which may
be obtained from the pump manufacturer; and
(b) available net positive suction head (NPSHA)a function of the system in which the
pump operates, which can be calculated for any installation.
1.3.23 Open joists and exposed common rafters
A series of members (including purlins) spaced not more than 600 mm apart, measured
from centre to centre of members.
1.3.24 Post or box pallet
Solid or mesh box with the open face uppermost, designed to be stacked one upon the other
in a self-supporting manner.
1.3.25
19
(a) Extended coverage sprinkler A type of spray sprinkler with a higher pressure
requirement and a modified deflector specifically developed to achieve an extended
maximum protected area.
(b) Large drop sprinkler A type of sprinkler that is capable of producing large water
droplets, enabling better penetration of the fire plume and improved ability to
control high-challenge fires.
(c) Early suppression fast response sprinkler (ESFR) A type of fast response sprinkler
developed to provide fire suppression of high-challenge fires, which, in many
instances, eliminates the need for in-rack protection. This sprinkler has special
design requirements and limitations in respect to the building structure and the
system application.
(d) Residential sprinkler A type of fast response sprinkler, developed for the type of fire
hazard found in dwellings, with spray patterns and discharge rates specifically
designed for life safety applications.
(e) Sealed water mist nozzle A fast response, sealed, spray nozzle listed as providing
equivalent performance to pendent spray sprinklers for Light Hazard and Ordinary
Hazard Group 1 and 2 application.
(f)
(a)
Special sprinklers have been developed for a specific purpose, and the system
design parameters must suit the sprinkler performance characteristics. (The
sprinkler characteristics dictate the system design parameters required.) As
such, standard sprinkler system design requirements, as specified in this
Standard, may not be suited to systems incorporating special sprinklers. Design
requirements for such systems should be determined with reference to
Clause 2.3.3.
(b)
Standard sprinklers have been developed to suit the particular system design
parameters set down in Sections 9, 10, and 11 of this Standard. (The system
design parameters dictate the required sprinkler characteristics.)
The design of systems using standard sprinklers is based on providing a given
density of water over a specified floor area. Standard sprinklers were originally
restricted to those conforming to specific thread and orifice sizes. The range has
been extended to include sprinklers with larger thread and orifice size, provided
the sprinklers suit the system design parameters of Sections 9, 10 and 11. These
sprinklers include large orifice types, which are also often identified by reference
Q
to a K factor (a constant in the formula K =
, see Clause 1.4.14).
P
20
C1.3.28 Sprayers generally are of two basic types, medium velocity and high velocity.
Medium-velocity sprayers are either open or sealed with a heat-responsive element,
producing a fine droplet spray with a limited distance of direct impingement. They are
designed for the extinguishing, containing or controlling fires involving low-flashpoint
liquids as well as for cooling protected (adjacent) areas exposed to fire. High-velocity
sprayers are open-type sprayers producing a large droplet with high momentum and
have a direct impingement distance of up to 5 m. High-velocity sprayers are designed
for extinguishing, containing and controlling fires involving high-flashpoint liquids,
principally by the emulsification of the burning fuel surface.
1.3.29 Sprinkler-protected building
A building equipped throughout with a sprinkler system installed in accordance with this
Standard.
1.3.30 Sprinkler system
A system comprising components such as valves, alarms, pipework, sprinklers and water
supplies designed to control fire in a building. Sprinkler systems may be either standard
systems or special systems, and may be arranged to operate as one or a combination of the
following:
(a) Wet system A system permanently charged with water both above and below the
installation alarm valve (wet) (see Clause 8.10.1).
(b) Alternate wet and dry system A system that incorporates either a composite alarm
valve, or a combination valve set comprising an alarm valve (wet) and an alarm
valve (dry).
(c) Dry system A system permanently charged with air or inert gas under pressure,
above the alarm valve (dry) and with water below (see Clause 8.10.2).
(d) Pre-action system A combination of a sprinkler system and an independent system
of heat or smoke detectors installed in the same area as the sprinklers. A heat or
smoke detector operates prior to the sprinklers, allowing the pre-action valve to open
and water to flow into the sprinkler piping, before the first sprinkler starts to operate
(see Clause 8.12.2).
(e) Recycling pre-action system A system with heat detectors and incorporating a
pre-action flow control valve capable of repeated on/off cycles appropriate to the
possible redevelopment of fire in the protected area. The cycling occurs as a result
of heat detector operation which, as an electric interlock, causes the pre-action flow
control valve to open and close.
(f)
(g) Tail-end system A system essentially similar to dry, alternate wet and dry, pre-action
and deluge systems, with the limitation that it only forms an extension to a sprinkler
installation.
1.3.31 Standard sprinkler
A sprinkler conforming to the thread sizes, deflector type and K factors specified in
AS 4118.1.1, or spray sprinklers with K factors of 16.0 (ELO), 20.0 (VELO), 24.0 or 36.0.
(See also Clause 6.2.1.)
Standard sprinklers include the following:
(a) Conventional sprinkler A sprinkler designed to produce a spherical type of
discharge with a proportion of water being thrown upwards to the ceiling. A
conventional sprinkler is usually designed with a universal type deflector enabling
21
the sprinkler to be used in either the upright or pendent position. Some conventional
sprinklers are made in two types: one suitable for use in the upright position and the
other for use in the pendent position.
(b) Spray sprinkler A sprinkler designed to produce a parabolic discharge below the
plane of the deflector with little or no water being discharged upwards to wet the
ceiling. Spray sprinklers are made in two types: one suitable for use in the upright
position and the other for use in the pendent position.
(c) Flush sprinkler A sprinkler designed for use with concealed piping where it is
required, for reasons of appearance, to make the sprinklers inconspicuous.
NOTES:
1 A flush sprinkler is installed pendent, with the base flush to the ceiling, but has an
exposed heat-responsive element and retracted deflector which drops down to the normal
position on actuation.
2 Flush sprinklers are normally used in hotel lobbies, dining rooms, offices, boardrooms
and parts of retail stores. Flush sprinklers are not suitable for use in atmospheres that are
corrosive or subject to a high dust content. Flush sprinklers utilizing chains to locate the
deflector are only suitable for use with level ceilings unless specifically listed otherwise.
(e) Concealed sprinkler A sprinkler comprising a spray sprinkler that is fully recessed
in a concealed housing and fitted with a cover plate assembly designed to release at
or before the operating temperature of the sprinkler.
NOTE: Concealed sprinklers provide the same unobtrusive appearance as flush sprinklers.
(f)
Sidewall sprinkler A sprinkler designed for installation along the walls of a room
close to the ceiling. A sidewall sprinkler provides a one-sided (half-paraboloid)
discharge pattern directed outwards with a small proportion discharging on the wall
behind the sprinkler.
NOTES:
1 Sidewall pattern sprinklers are not normally a substitute for conventional or spray pattern
sprinklers and their use is limited to such locations as offices, entrance halls, lobbies and
corridors.
2 A sidewall sprinkler may be used to advantage in drying tunnels and hoods over
papermaking machines where condensate dripping from sprinklers and pipework at the
ceiling could be troublesome and also in certain other locations, such as shop windows
and under platforms having low headroom, where sprinklers would be subject to damage.
(g) Dry pendent and dry sidewall sprinkler A sprinkler designed for use in portions of
premises protected by a dry or an alternate wet and dry system where it is not
practicable to install sprinklers in the upright position, or in a wet system where the
sprinklers may be subject to frost.
NOTE: Dry pendent and dry sidewall sprinklers are designed having either conventional or pendent
spray-type deflectors. Dry pendent and dry sidewall sprinklers are manufactured integral with drop
pipes of varying lengths, the valve being so placed that there is no pocket or depression where water
can be trapped.
(h) Dry upright sprinkler A sprinkler essentially the same as the dry pendent types
except that an upright type deflector is incorporated.
22
NOTE: A dry upright sprinkler is designed for use in wet systems for the protection of concealed
spaces subject to freezing.
(i)
(j)
(k) Large orifice, extra large orifice and very extra large orifice sprinklers Types of
sprinklers with increased orifice sizes to permit high-flow rates.
C1.3.30 The life safety aspects of a sprinkler system are improved by using fast
response sprinklers. Fast response and quick response are synonymous terms.
1.3.32 Standard sprinkler system
A system utilizing sprinkler types as listed in AS 4118.1.1. (See also Clause 6.2.1.)
1.3.33 Thermal sensitivity
A measure of the response time index (RTI) and the conductivity factor expressed in
categories of RTI, being: fast response, special response or standard response (see
AS 4118.1.1).
23
SECTI O N
SPRINKLER
DAT A
SYSTEM
DESIGN
Deluge system.
Where single installations protect both High Hazard areas and Ordinary Hazard or Light Hazard
areas, the High Hazard area shall not exceed the floor area specified in Items (b), (c), (d) or (e)
above, as appropriate, and the total area shall not exceed 9000 m2.
24
(ii)
(ii)
25
The pre-action detection system may utilize a heat or smoke detection system complying
with AS 1670.1 as referenced in the BCA or, where electrical supply is to be avoided, a
sprinkler detection system charged with either air or water under pressure. In each case the
detection system shall automatically initiate an alarm.
The heat or smoke detection system shall operate a solenoid valve or trip mechanism as one
action to release the pre-action alarm valve. Solenoid valve wiring shall be fire resistant and
supervised when the solenoid is not continuously energised as fail-safe, that is, set to
release when de-energized.
The floor area controlled by one control assembly in a pre-action system shall not exceed
that prescribed in Clause 2.1.2.2 for wet systems.
Where the piping could be subject to freezing, it shall be arranged with slope for drainage (see Clause 7.4) and standard sprinklers shall be installed in the upright position above the
line of pipe.
The installation spacing and location of heat or smoke detectors shall comply with the
requirements of AS 1670.1 as referenced in the BCA.
C2.1.2.5 A single interlock system only becomes a wet system following the operation
of the detection system, the objective being to prevent a discharge of water from piping
or sprinklers that may have suffered mechanical damage.
A double interlock system offers the greatest safeguard against inadvertent water
discharge by requiring that both the system of detectors and the sprinkler installation be
activated before water is admitted to the installation piping.
2.1.2.6 Recycling pre-action systems
Re-closing the flow control valve shall be delayed for a period of 5 min, by means of an
automatic timer, as a safety measure. Should the fire re-kindle and re-actuate the heat
detectors, the flow control valve shall re-open immediately and water shall again flow from
the open sprinklers.
The floor area controlled by one control assembly in a recycling pre-action system shall not
exceed that prescribed in Clause 2.3.2.2 for wet systems.
The piping shall be arranged with slope for drainage (see Clause 7.4) and standard
sprinklers shall be installed in the upright position above the line of pipe.
The installation and spacing of heat or smoke detectors in recycling pre-action systems
shall comply with the requirements of AS 1670.1 as referenced in the BCA
2.1.2.7 Deluge systems (see Clause 1.3.29)
Deluge systems shall be in accordance with AS 2118.3.
C2.1.2.7 Deluge systems are designed primarily for special hazards such as those
listed as High Hazard in Clause 2.2. Where any fire could be anticipated to be intense
and with a fast rate of propagation. In such circumstances, it is desirable to apply water
simultaneously over a complete zone in which a fire may originate by admitting water to
open sprinklers or to medium- or high-velocity sprayers.
2.1.2.8 Tail-end systems (see Clause 1.3.29)
Tail-end systems shall form extensions to sprinkler systems.
The following limitations and specific requirements shall apply for tail-end installations:
(a) The total area of tail-end systems on one wet pipe installation shall not exceed
2500 m2 . Any one tail-end system shall not exceed 1000 m2 .
(b) The subsidiary stop valve shall be monitored in accordance with Clause 3.4.
26
(ii)
A drain valve.
(iii) An upper test valve, not more than 350 mm nor less than 250 mm below the
filling connection in the wet system.
(iv)
A lower test valve, not less than 1.2 m below the upper test valve.
(v)
A filling connection.
(vi)
A non-return valve. The disc of the non-return valve shall have a 1 mm hole to
allow for expansion of the solution during a temperature rise and thus prevent
damage to sprinklers. All valves in the system piping shall be metal-faced.
NOTES:
1 These systems are suitable for use in small coolrooms and freezing chambers and other areas
such as loading docks and outhouses in localities subject to freezing conditions.
2 See Figure 2.1.2.9 for an arrangement of the fittings.
27
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
Tail-end system.
A special sprinkler system shall comply with the requirements set out in Clauses 2.1.2.2 to
2.1.2.9 and Clauses 2.1.3.2 to 2.1.3.5.
NOTE: The use of special sprinklers in High Hazard deluge systems is not recommended unless the
special sprinkler is listed for High Hazard applications. Deluge systems should utilize open standard
sprinklers or listed medium- or high-velocity sprayers.
(b)
(c)
28
The critical design and installation requirements for special sprinkler systems are those that
directly affect the performance of the sprinklers. They shall apply only to that part of each
system downstream of the control assembly. Other issues, such as the maximum floor area
controlled by one control assembly, alarm and monitoring systems, valving, pipe materials,
hangers, bracing and the like, shall conform to the requirements of this Standard.
The maximum area covered by a special sprinkler installation shall be in accordance with
Clause 2.1.2.2 to 2.1.2.9
2.1.3.3 ESFR sprinkler system
Special sprinkler systems incorporating ESFR sprinklers (see Clause 1.3.26) shall be wet
systems and shall be designed in accordance with Factory Mutual Loss Prevention Data
Sheets 2-2 and 8-9 and the requirements of this Section
C2.1.3.3 ESFR sprinkler systems are designed exclusively to suppress high-challenge
fires in High Hazard storage occupancies. In many instances, in-rack sprinklers can be
reduced or eliminated. The system is expected to discharge a large volume of water at
high speed, directly onto a fire to suppress the fire before it is fully developed. ESFR
sprinklers are quick-acting high-performance sprinklers which have the capability of
suppressing fires within designated occupancies.
2.1.3.4 Special systems incorporating residential sprinklers
Residential sprinkler heads may be installed in wet pipe sprinkler systems conforming to
this Standard, provided the following criteria are met:
(a)
The installation of residential sprinklers is limited to sole occupancy units and their
adjoining corridors in residential portions of buildings.
(b) The design requirements of the portion of the system utilizing residential sprinklers
conform to Section 9, Light Hazard, and the number of sprinklers assumed to be in
operation includes the hydraulically most unfavourable six sprinklers.
(c) Residential sprinklers are listed and installed in strict accordance with positioning,
spacing and roof slope requirements. The minimum design density for residential
sprinkler systems is 2 mm/min, but not less than that produced from the flow
requirements of the individual sprinkler as a function of its spacing, roof slope,
temperature rating and minimum pressure requirements.
(d) Special sprinkler systems incorporating residential sprinklers are designed such that
the maximum floor area, excluding concealed spaces but including mezzanine floor
areas, controlled by one control assembly, does not exceed 9000 m2 .
(e)
C2.1.3.4 Residential sprinkler system design criteria for buildings up to four storeys in
involve concessions in terms of extent of sprinkler coverage. Such concessions have not
been demonstrated to be applicable to taller buildings involving common service shafts,
central HVAC systems, and the like. Therefore, these taller buildings should be
protected in accordance with the requirements of this Standard.
Standard sprinkler systems that permit the inclusion of residential sprinklers are
designated as special sprinkler systems.
2.1.3.5 Hydraulic calculation
Special sprinkler system designs shall utilize hydraulic calculation procedures, in
accordance with Section 12.
29
30
SECTI O N
EXTENT OF PROTECTION
SYST EM MONITORING
AND
Sprinklers specifically designed for the purpose and located and spaced in accordance
with their listing.
Conventional sprinklers (CU/P) shall not be used, except in the case of protection beneath
roof overhangs. Sprinklers beneath roof overhangs shall not be considered a substitute for
protection of walls.
3.1.3 Shielding
Where building features do not shield sprinklers to prevent cooling from sprinklers
operating above, such sprinklers shall be fitted with metal shields not less than 80 mm
diameter.
C3.1.3 The use of sprinkler shields as a device for heat collection has been shown in
fire tests to be of no value as an aid for sprinkler operation compared to a non-shielded
sprinkler.
3.1.4 Sprinkler spacing and location
Unless specifically listed otherwise, sprinklers shall be located in accordance with
Tables 3.1.4(A) and 3.1.4(B).
In addition to the requirements contained in Tables 3.1.4(A) and 3.1.4(B), a sprinkler shall
be positioned not more than 1.25 m horizontally from
(a) the vertical extremities of the protected surface;
(b) the vertical extremities of each glazed opening, with the sprinkler located within the
opening; and
(c) the centre of any building feature such as downpipes and glazing bars or mullions that
project more than 40 mm from the protected surface.
31
Where vertical glazing bars or mullions project more than 40 mm from the glazed surface
and are spaced not more than 1660 mm centre to centre, every alternate sprinkler may be
positioned on the centre-line of a mullion or glazing bar, provided the sprinklers are
positioned within 1.25 m of each side of any vertical glazing bar or mullion that exceeds
40 mm in width.
TABLE 3.1.4(A)
SPRINKLER SPACING
Spacing
Measurement
Measured
Max.
Min.
Point of measurement
Horizontal
Horizontally
2.5 m
1.8 m
(see Note)
Centre of sprinkler
Vertical
Vertically
4.0 m
N/A
Deflector to deflector
NOTE: The 1.8 m minimum distance may be reduced where sprinklers are separated by a baffle or building
feature that will prevent cooling from an adjacent operating sprinkler.
TABLE 3.1.4(B)
SPRINKLER LOCATION
Orientation
Measured
Measurement, mm
Max.
Min.
Point of
measurement
Horizontal
100
50
Centre of sprinkler
Pendent
100
50
Sprinkler deflector
SP and SU horizontal
(spray towards wall)
300
100
Sprinkler deflector
WP pendent
(spray towards wall)
300
100
Centre of sprinkler
WP horizontal
(spray parallel to wall)
100
50
Sprinkler deflector
WH pendent
(spray parallel to wall)
100
50
Centre of sprinkler
32
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
33
34
Part (a)
Part (b)
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
35
3.1.5 Piping
External sprinklers shall be fed either individually by range pipes or as groups by dedicated
distribution pipes connected to a distribution pipe of the internal sprinkler system.
Pipe sizes shall be determined by full hydraulic calculation methods.
C3.1.5 In cases where excessive sprinkler system downtime may be occasioned by the
post-fire replacement of external sprinklers, groups of external sprinklers should be
connected by dedicated distribution pipes fitted with locked-open isolation valves. The
fitting of locked-open sectional stop valves on connections to external protection can
greatly decrease the time taken to restore a system following an operation of the
external sprinklers and should be considered for all such installations.
3.1.6 Performance
Sprinkler systems that incorporate exposure protection shall be fully hydraulically designed
so that the flow from any external sprinkler shall be not less than 75 L/min when the
required maximum numbers of external sprinklers are operating.
Where the area to be protected by an individual sprinkler is less than 2.5 m wide, the flow
rate may be reduced proportionally subject to a minimum end-head pressure of 70 kPa.
The required number of sprinklers assumed to be in simultaneous operation shall be the
number of sprinklers opposed to each exposure hazard, up to a maximum of 18.
Hydraulic calculation methods shall be in accordance with Section 12.
3.1.7 Water supply
If the maximum calculated flow and pressure requirements of the exposure protection are in
excess of that required for the internal sprinklers alone, the water supply shall be increased
to cover the excess.
3.2 ALARM SIGNALLING
3.2.1 General
A sprinkler system shall be capable of automatically activating alarm signalling equipment
as required by Specification E1.5 of the BCA. Alarm signalling equipment shall comply
with AS 4428.6.
3.2.2 Integrity and marking requirementsElectrical wiring
Wiring from system pressure switches to the ASE shall comply with AS/NZS 3013 with
a minimum rating of WS51W, and the mechanical rating upgraded dependent on the hazard
defined in accordance with AS/NZS 3013. Where connection to the ASE is duplicated and
routed via separate signal paths, the minimum cable rating shall be WSX1.
3.3 SYSTEM COMPONENT FAULT MONITORING
3.3.1 General
Fault monitoring of system components shall be provided in accordance with Clauses 3.5.2
to 3.5.5.
3.3.2 Fault monitoring devices
3.3.2.1 General
Class A fault monitoring devices shall be installed except where the monitored components
are located within a secure area or room with access restricted by means of a security
device or system, in which case Class B devices may be used.
36
(b)
(c)
(b)
(c)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
3.3.5 Installation
Control and indicating equipment shall comply with the requirements of AS 4428.1 and
AS/NZS 3000.
Fault signals from monitored components shall be connected to
(a)
(b)
(c)
Should the connection be severed, attention shall be drawn to this fact at the receiving
station.
37
SECTI O N
WA TER
SUPPLI ES
4.1 SUPPLY
4.1.1 General
All sprinkler systems shall be provided with at least one reliable water supply drawn from
an acceptable source and arranged to facilitate verification testing (see Clause 4.4).
NOTE: For typical water supply and valve arrangements, see Appendix B.
Natural sources such as rivers, lakes or underground water supply, subject to the
conditions set out in Clause 4.3.5, with automatic pumps.
Pressure tankpermissible for Light and Ordinary Hazard 1 classes only (see
Clause 4.3.8).
(ii)
38
supply
(v)
(vi)
Pressure tankpermissible for Light and Ordinary Hazard 1 classes only (see
Clause 4.3.8).
39
40
The town main shall be capable of supplying hydrant flows in excess of the sprinkler
system demand. To provide for this demand, the following hydrant flows shall be
deducted from the minimum town main hydraulic characteristic (see
Clause 12.7.2(a))
(i)
(ii)
41
(iii) for buildings of fire compartments greater than 10 000 m2 ............... 1800 L/min.
4.3.2.2 Pumps drawing from a town main supply
4.3.2.2.1 General
Pumps may draw directly from a town main provided the following criteria are met:
(a) The water supply authority requirements are met.
(b) The town main is capable of providing water at the maximum flow rate of the system
Q max. (see Clause 1.3.18)).
(c) The combined output of the town main and either pump (or two pumps if three are
installed) meets the maximum flow and pressure requirements of the system (see
Clause 4.3.8.4 and Figure 4.3.8.4(A).
4.3.2.2.2 Single supply
Where a boosted town main is the sole supply to a system, either one of the following shall
apply:
(a) Two automatic pumps, at least one of which shall be compression-ignition engine
driven. The other may be electric motor-driven. Each pump shall be capable of
providing independently the necessary flow and pressure; or
(b) Three automatic pumps, at least two of which shall be compression ignition enginedriven, and any two of which shall be capable of providing in aggregate the
necessary flow and pressure.
4.3.2.2.3 Dual supply
Where a dual water supply consists of two boosted town mains, at least one automatic
booster pump is required per town main supply, provided the pumps share a common pump
suction manifold, in accordance with the requirements of Clause 4.3.8.3.
4.3.3 Private system water supply
4.3.3.1 General
Private system water supplies that provide the combined requirements of fire, domestic and
industrial systems, in addition to the sprinkler flow and pressure requirements, shall be in
the form of a ring main complying with the following:
(a) The ring main shall be capable of providing the combined peak flow requirements of
all connected systems in addition to meeting the sprinkler system flow and pressure
requirements for the specified time.
(b) Any stop valves on branch connections to a sprinkler system from the ring main, apart
from those underground, shall be secured in the open position.
Flow and pressure tests to establish the adequacy of the water supply to the sprinkler
system shall be carried out when the draw-off for other purposes is at its peak.
4.3.3.2 Pumps drawing from a private system water supply
4.3.3.2.1 General
Pumps may draw directly from a private system water supply, provided the following
criteria are met:
(a) The private system water supply is capable of providing water at the maximum flow
rate of the system ( Q max.) (see Clause 1.3.18), plus the excess flow required by
Clause 4.3.2.1(c).
42
(b) The combined output of the private system water supply and either pump (or two
pumps if three are installed) meets the maximum flow and pressure requirements of
the system (see Clause 4.3.8.3 and Figures 4.3.8.4(A) and (B)).
4.3.3.2.2 Pressure boosting
Where pressure boosting is required to satisfy the system flow and pressure requirements,
either one of the following shall be provided:
(a)
Two automatic pumps, at least one of which shall be compression ignition enginedriven. The other may be electric motor-driven. Each pump shall be capable of
providing independently the necessary flow and pressure.
(b)
Three automatic pumps, at least two of which shall be compression ignition enginedriven, and any two of which shall be capable of providing in aggregate the necessary
flow and pressure.
In each case the pumps shall be capable of operating in parallel, that is, they shall have
similar pressure and flow characteristics.
4.3.4 Pump suction tank water supply
4.3.4.1 General
Pump suction tanks shall have an effective capacity as prescribed in BCA Specification
E1.5.
Pump suction tanks shall be constructed from concrete, steel or fibreglass. Any internal
membrane or liner incorporated in the tank design shall be permanently bonded to the tank
to prevent separation and shall be listed for the purpose.
Fibreglass tanks or tanks having an internal membrane, or liner incorporated in the design,
shall be located at least 6 m from a non-sprinkler protected building or be located in a
sprinklered area.
Each pump suction tank shall be fitted with a device to indicate the depth of water, that is,
full, three-quarters, half, quarter and empty.
The water supply for suction tank filling shall be capable of completely refilling the tank
within the following times:
(a) Single supply tanks :
(i)
(ii)
43
shown in Figure 4.3.4.2. Low water level X is calculated to be the lowest level before a
vortex is created causing the pump to draw air (see Figure 4.3.4.3).
Where the suction pipe is taken from the side of the tank as shown in Figure 4.3.4.2(b), the
clearance between the base of the tank and the lowest level of the pump suction pipe shall
be not less than dimension B in Figure 4.3.4.2 (b).
Where a sump is formed in the base of a suction tank from which the suction pipe draws
water, the sump shall be not smaller than indicated in Figure 4.3.4.2 in which the position
of the sump is shown with broken lines. In addition, the sump width shall be not less than
3.6d, where d is the nominal diameter of the suction pipe. The point of entry of water to the
suction pipe shall be located centrally across the width of the sump.
Nominal diameter of
suction pipe
Dimension A
Dimension B
65
80
100
250
310
370
80
80
100
150
200
250
500
620
750
100
150
150
300
350
400
900
1 050
1 200
200
250
300
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
44
Hm
Qmax. 17.68
Ha
Hm
Ha
Q max.
Where
The plate shall be not less then 10 mm thick. It shall be effectively protected from
corrosion.
45
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
Pumps drawing from pump suction tanks shall comply with either one of the following:
(a) Two automatic pumps, at least one of which shall be compression ignition enginedriven. The other may be electric motor-driven. Each pump shall be capable of
providing independently the necessary flow and pressure.
(b) Three automatic pumps, at least two of which shall be compression ignition enginedriven, and any two of which shall be capable of providing, in aggregate, the
necessary flow and pressure.
4.3.5 Supply from natural source
4.3.5.1 General
Where the suction pipe draws from a suction chamber fed from a virtually inexhaustible
natural source such as a river, channel, lake or the like, the design and dimensions specified
in Figure 4.3.5 and Clause 4.3.5.3 shall apply.
46
NOTE: For clarity, horizontal dimension of chambers are shown longer than acceptable minimum.
47
Pipes, conduits and beds of open-topped channels shall have a continuous downward slope
towards the jackwell or suction pit of at least 1:125.
4.3.5.3 Diameters of pipes
The diameters of feed pipes or conduit shall be determined from the following formula:
D
Q max.
where
The top of the pipe or conduit inlet shall be not less than one diameter below the lowest
known water level.
4.3.5.5 Depth of water
The depth (d) of water in open channels or weirs, and above the weir between the settling
chamber and suction chamber, shall be not less than that shown in Table 4.3.5.5 for the
corresponding width (W) and maximum flow rate of the pump (Q max.). Each suction inlet
shall be provided with a separate suction and settling chamber.
The total depth of open channels and weirs shall be sufficient to accommodate the highest
known water level of the water source.
TABLE 4.3.5.5
MINIMUM DEPTH OF WATER AND WIDTH
OF OPEN CHANNELS AND WEIRS FOR
CORRESPONDING INFLOWS
Depth (d ) , mm
250
500
1 000
Width
(W)
Q max.
Width
(W)
Q max.
Width
(W)
Q max.
88
125
167
280
497
807
82
112
143
522
891
1 383
78
106
134
993
1 687
2 593
215
307
334
1 197
2 064
2 342
176
235
250
1 960
3 159
3 506
163
210
223
3 631
5 647
6 255
410
500
564
3 157
4 185
4 953
291
334
361
4 482
5 592
6 340
254
286
306
7 825
9 577
10 749
750
1 113
1 167
7 261
12 054
12 792
429
527
539
8 370
11 415
11 816
353
417
425
13 670
18 066
18 635
1 500
2 000
4 500
17 379
24 395
60 302
600
667
819
13 903
16 271
21 949
462
500
581
21 411
24 395
31 142
1 000
29 173
667
2 000
38 916
203 320
48
The dimension of the suction chamber and the location of suction pipes from the walls of
the chamber, their depth below the lowest known water level and clearance from the bottom
shall comply with the requirements of Clause 4.3.4.2.
The settling chamber shall have the same width and depth as the suction chamber and a
length not less than 4.4H where H is the depth of the settling chamber in metres.
4.3.5.7 Inlet screens
(c) Suction inlet drawing direct from source Where the suction inlet draws directly from
the source, a walled area not smaller than that required for suction chambers (see
Clause 4.3.5.6) shall be provided. Where the wall extends above the surface of the
water, apertures shall be provided and fitted with screens complying with the
requirements of Clause 4.3.5.7(b). Where the top of the wall is below the surface of
the water level, a screen shall be fitted between the top of the wall and the highest
known water level. Such screens shall provide an area not less than that required by
Clause 4.3.5.7(b) at the lowest known water level.
Provision shall be made for access to the screens for cleaning.
4.3.5.8 Pumps drawing from a natural source
Pumps drawing from a natural source of water supply shall comply with either one of the
following:
(a) Two automatic pumps, at least one of which shall be compression ignition enginedriven. The other may be electric motor-driven. Each pump shall be capable of
providing independently the necessary flow and pressure.
(b) Three automatic pumps, at least two of which shall be compression ignition enginedriven, and any two of which shall be capable of providing, in aggregate, the
necessary flow and pressure.
4.3.6 Gravity tank water supply
49
(b) The quantity of water required for the sprinkler installation shall be automatically
maintained. If the tank forms the sole supply to the sprinkler system, the supply to
the tank shall be capable of refilling the tank to the capacity required within 6 h. If
the rate of input of the supply to the tank is less than that required to refill it within
6 h, the capacity of the tank shall be increased by the amount of the shortfall.
NOTE: Should the capacity of the tank exceed the system requirements, it is permissible to draw
upon the surplus for other purposes by means of an outlet pipe on the side of the tank above the
level of the quantity to be reserved for the sprinkler installation.
(c) A tank-isolating valve and non-return valve shall be provided on each tank outlet.
4.3.7 Pressure tank water supply
50
(f)
The proportion of air in the tank shall be not less than one-third of tank volume.
The air pressure (gauge) to be maintained in the tank shall be determined from the
following formulas:
Where the tank is above the highest sprinkler:
(i)
P=
(ii)
( P1 + P2 )
R
. . . 4.3.8 (1)
P1
( P1 + P2 + 9.79 H )
R
P1
. . . 4.3.8 (2)
where
P
P1
P2
= minimum calculated pressure required at the pressure tank outlet when all
the water is expelled from the tank, in kPa
= height between the highest sprinkler above the tank base, in metres
Pumpsets shall be designed and installed to comply with the requirements of AS 2941 and
the following:
(a) Compression ignition engine-driven pumps shall be housed in an area fitted with a
sprinkler system.
(b) Electric motor-driven pumps shall be housed in
(i)
(ii)
(c) Pumpsets shall be adequately protected against mechanical damage. The temperature
of the room shall be maintained above 4C for electric motor-driven pumps and
above 10C where compression ignition type engines are used. The installation of
pump motors and electrical controls in pits, tunnels or the like are permitted only
where approved by a relevant authority.
(d) Where a pump house, which is required to be sprinkler protected, is situated remote
from the sprinkler-protected premises such that it is impracticable to supply the
pump house sprinklers from the installation control assembly, the pump house
sprinklers may be supplied from a point on the downstream side of the non-return
valve on the supply pipe from the pump. The sprinkler supply connection shall be
provided with a controlling stop valve locked in the open position fitted on the
supply pipe to the sprinklers together with an alarm device with visible and audible
indication of the operation of sprinklers provided at some suitable location (e.g., in
the gatehouse or at the installation control assembly). A drain valve, DN 15, shall be
provided downstream of the flow alarm to permit testing of the alarm.
Where operation of a pump is necessary to provide the flow and pressure
requirements of the pump house sprinklers, pump starting shall be initiated by
51
pressure sensors located on the pump discharge pipe upstream of the control valve
assembly.
(e) A full-flow stop valve, padlocked in the open position, shall be fitted in the pump
suction pipe to permit removal of the pump without draining water from the supply.
(f)
Piping between the supply and the pump shall be arranged to prevent airlocks.
(g) There shall be a bypass around the pumps with a non-return valve on the bypass for
water sources drawn from any of the following:
(i)
(ii)
Sprinkler pumps shall not be installed under suction lift conditions. Sprinkler pumps shall
be supplied with intake water under positive head.
For pumps to be considered under positive head, there shall be at least 2/3 of the required
water storage above the centre-line of the pump which shall also be no more than 2.0 m
above the low water level X (see Clause 4.3.4.2).
Where pumps draw from a natural unlimited water supply, such as a river, canal or lake, it
shall be considered to be under positive head when the centre-line of the pump is located
not less than 850 mm below the lowest known water level.
4.3.8.3 Suction piping
The diameter of the water supply connection to the pumps shall be such that a velocity of
4.0 m/s is not exceeded when either pump (or two pumps where three are installed) is
operating at its maximum flow rate (Q max.) (see Clause 1.3.18).
Suction pipe diameter shall comply with the requirements in AS 2941 and be not less than
the suction inlet size of the pump.
Where pumps draw from pump suction tanks, the location of the entry point to the suction
piping shall conform to the dimensions given in Figure 4.3.4.2.
Pump suction pipes shall be interconnected by a common manifold. This interconnection
manifold shall be located adjacent to the pumps and shall be at least equal in diameter to the
individual pump suction pipes. Each pump shall be fitted with an isolating (stop) valve at
its inlet.
Means shall be provided to prevent any operating pump from drawing air from any
non-operating interconnected pump through
(a) the pump air vent pipes;
(b) the pressure relief valve piping;
(c) the pump anti-overheating circulating pipe; and
(d) the tank infill line drawing from the same source as the pump (see Figure D2).
The relevant requirements of Clauses 4.3.2.1, 4.3.3.1, 4.3.4.4 or 4.3.5.7 shall also apply
(see also AS 2941).
4.3.8.4 Pumpset performance criteria
Pumpsets shall be capable of satisfying the flow and pressure requirements of any design
area of the system under consideration, calculated at the lowest available suction pressure
52
and the maximum flow rate of the system (Q max.) (see Clause 1. 3.18). System requirement
curves and the water supply curve shall be prepared in accordance with Clause 12.7. The
supply curve shall intersect both the hydraulically most favourable and hydraulically most
unfavourable system requirement curves at points at least 50 kPa above the calculated
system pressure requirements.
Each pump driver shall be capable of meeting the power requirements of AS 2941.
Figures 4.3.8.4(A) and (B) illustrate typical acceptable curves for pumps drawing from a
town main and from a static water source respectively.
NOTES:
1
FIGURE 4.3.8.4 (A) TYPICAL SUPPLY CURVESPUMP DRAWING FROM TOWN MAIN
WITH PROVISION FOR HYDRANTS
53
NOTES:
1
54
4.3.9 Pumpsets
In addition to the requirements of AS 2941, pumpsets shall comply with the following:
(a) Each pump controller shall be actuated by a separate pressure sensor set to operate
when the pressure in the installation has fallen to a value of not less than the highest
pressure requirement for the system. Where pressure sensors are installed on a water
supply manifold serving more than one installation, they shall be duplicated (wired
in parallel) for each pump. Where more than one pump is provided, the pumps shall
be arranged to start sequentially at a pressure not less than that stated above.
(b) A fall in water pressure in the sprinkler system, which is intended to initiate the
automatic starting of the pump, shall at the same time provide a visible and audible
alarm at some suitable location (e.g., in the gatehouse or at the installation control
assembly). The starting of the pump(s) shall not cause the cancellation of the alarm.
Where the pump is situated remote from the protected premises, visible and audible
indication of the pump operation shall be provided at a similar suitable location.
This alarm may share a common indicator with the pump running alarm (see also
Clause 4.3.8.1(d)).
(c) Facilities shall be provided to reduce the applied water pressure to each starting
device to simulate the condition of automatic starting at the required pressure. A
separate hydraulic circuit shall be provided for each starting device. This can take
the form of a drain valve on the hydraulic connection to the pump-start pressure
switch with the provision of suitable permanent drainage facilities. To enable the
cut-in pressure to be judged accurately, the drain valve shall be fitted with an orifice
plate to reduce the rate of pressure drop.
To facilitate testing and servicing, an isolating valve shall be fitted on the hydraulic
connection. A bypass and non-return valve, allowing flow towards the main, shall be
provided to ensure pump starting is not disabled if the isolating valve is inadvertently left
closed. A pressure gauge to indicate the pressure at which the pump starts shall be located
between the isolating and drain valves so that it can be read during the pump starting test
(see Figures 4.3.9(A) and (B)).
55
Facilities shall be provided on each sprinkler system to test the water supplies to verify that
they satisfy the calculated flow and pressure requirements of the installed system.
The flow measuring device shall be installed at any point on the system downstream of the
datum point to which the hydraulic calculations are referenced.
The test pressure gauge shall be installed at or immediately adjacent to the system hydraulic
calculation datum point.
Where more than one hazard class is involved, whether on the same or separate
installations, testing facilities shall be provided to enable the full range of flows to be
measured.
Where a number of installation control assemblies are sited together, a testing facility is
only necessary on one installation control assembly, provided that it is fitted to the
assembly requiring the highest flow.
4.5 CONNECTIONS FOR OTHER SERVICES
4.5.1 General
The water supply to a sprinkler system shall be separate with no other connections except
where it can be demonstrated to the appropriate authority that the maximum draw-off by
other connected services would not decrease the performance or reliability of the sprinkler
system.
Where a connection is to a town main or the supply is from a private source, the provisions
of Clause 4.5.3 for hose reels shall apply. If other connections are necessary to comply with
water supply authority requirements, any such connection shall be made upstream of the
sprinkler system main stop valve and shall be fitted with separate isolating valves.
4.5.2 Combined sprinkler and hydrant water supply
The water supply for both automatic sprinkler and fire hydrant services within a property
may be combined. In the case of buildings greater than two storeys in height where a
combined system is used, the requirements of AS 2118.6 shall be met. In the case of
56
building not exceeding two storeys in height where a combined system is used, the
following criteria shall be met:
(a) The water supply is of sufficient capacity to provide the combined flow requirements
for both sprinklers and hydrants.
(b) Ring mains incorporating isolating valves complying with AS 2419.1 for all
combined sprinkler/hydrant systems that have external hydrants or hydrants that may
be subject to damage.
Where ring mains are not used, an isolating valve shall be installed at the point of
connection of any branch serving more than one hydrant.
(c) Piping shall be sized on the basis of the aggregate flow at any point in the system
with a velocity not exceeding 4 m/s. For ring mains, the flow shall be taken in one
direction only for velocity calculations.
NOTE: It is not intended that flow taken in one direction be applied to friction loss calculations.
(ii)
have a capacity not less than 2/3 of the quantity of water required in (a) above,
provided that the remainder is made up from a reliable source by an automatic
inflow for the operational period required for sprinklers or hydrants, whichever
is the more stringent.
(e) Where pumps are provided, the pumps shall comply with AS 2941 and Clauses 4.3.8
and 4.3.9 and
(i)
(ii)
the number and arrangement of pumps to comply with the relevant requirements
for the hazard class and of the water supply; and
(iii) have automatic starting in accordance with AS 2941; where remote manual start
is required for fire hydrant operation, the manual start stations to be sealed in a
manner which will ensure that any operation of the starting device is readily
discernible, e.g., lead and wire seals, break-glass facilities or similar.
(f)
Sprinkler and hydrant systems to comply with pressure limitations applicable to both
systems.
NOTE: See AS 2118.6 for combined sprinkler and hydrant systems for installation in multi storey
buildings. The requirements of AS 2118.6 do not apply to Clause 4.5 or 4.5.3.
Connections to sprinkler system water supplies are permitted for fire hose reels, provided
the appropriate requirements of Clauses 4.5.3.2 to 4.5.3.4 are complied with. Such
connections shall not exceed DN 50 and shall be provided with a stop valve suitably
labelled and in close proximity to the point of connection with the supply pipe.
4.5.3.2 Town mains
Provided that the town main and the sprinkler supply pipe are not less than DN 100
(a) a single pipe may be taken from the sprinkler supply pipe for fire hose reels; and
57
(b) where the water supply comprises connections taken from more than one town main,
connections for fire hose reels shall only be made between the point where the
supplies are joined and the sprinkler system main stop valve.
4.5.3.3 Elevated private reservoirs, gravity tanks and automatic pumps
Any required connections to supply fire hose reels shall be made on the supply side of the
sprinkler system main stop valve. In installations supplied from more than one of these
sources, connections for fire hose reels are permitted to be made similarly to
Clause 4.5.3.2(b).
4.5.3.4 Pressure tanks
Where a pressure tank forms the sole supply to an installation, hose reel connections are not
permitted.
Where a pressure tank forms a second supply to the installation, a fire hose reel connection
is permitted similarly to Clause 4.5.3.2(b).
4.5.4 Fire brigade booster connection
All sprinkler systems shall be fitted with a fire brigade booster connection to enable the fire
brigade to pressurize or pump water into the system.
Fire brigade booster connections, with the exception of suction outlets, shall conform to the
requirements of AS 2419.1. Fire brigade booster connections shall be adequately supported
and located outside the building in a position that is readily accessible to fire brigade
personnel.
A full way non-return valve shall be fitted downstream of the booster inlets together with
any other fittings required by the water supply authority, and with capped hose connections
suitable for use by the local fire brigade.
The number of inlets at the booster connection, up to a maximum of four, shall be sufficient
to supply the requirements of the sprinkler system. The input at each inlet connection shall
be based on the rate of 600 L/min.
The location or the enclosure, as applicable, for the fire brigade booster connection shall be
marked with
(a) the words SPRINKLER BOOSTER CONNECTION in letters not less than 50 mm
high, in a colour contrasting with that of the background; and
(b) the maximum allowable inlet pressure at the connection.
NOTE: Attention is drawn to the need to ensure that a suction outlet is available in close proximity
to the fire brigade booster connection.
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SECTI O N
SPACING AND
SPRINKLERS
L OCATI ON
OF
The maximum area of coverage per sprinkler and the maximum distance between sprinklers
on range pipes and between adjacent rows of sprinklers shall be as specified for the class of
hazard (see Clauses 9.4, 10.4 and 11.4 and Figure 5.1.1).
5.1.2 Special sprinkler spacing
The maximum area of coverage per sprinkler and the maximum distance between sprinklers
on range pipes and between adjacent rows of sprinklers shall be as listed for the particular
design requirements for the sprinkler. (See also Clause 1.3.26, and Clause 2.1.3.)
5.1.3 Staggered spacing
Where sprinklers are staggered, the arrangements shall be uniform. The maximum distance
from the end sprinkler to the wall or partition in each alternate row shall be one-fourth of
the design sprinkler spacing down the row; the spacing of the next sprinkler in the same
row shall be three-fourths of the design spacing (see Figure 5.1.3).
5.2 MINIMUM DISTANCE BETWEEN SPRINKLERS
The minimum distance between special sprinklers shall be as listed for the particular design
requirements for the sprinkler.
Baffles shall be at least 200 mm wide 150 mm deep and preferably be of sheet metal.
They shall be located approximately midway between sprinklers and arranged to shield the
actuating elements of sprinklers from the spray from adjacent sprinklers.
5.3 LOCATION OF SPRINKLERS (OTHER THAN SIDEWALL SPRINKLERS)
5.3.1 General
In addition to limitations specified for the maximum area coverage per sprinkler and the
maximum distance between sprinklers (see Clause 5.1), sprinklers shall be located so that
there will be minimal interference to the discharge pattern by structural members such as
beams, columns, girders and trusses (see Clause 5.5) or any other obstructing feature such
as ducting, piping, cable trays or light fittings. Sprinklers shall also be located at the
appropriate distance below ceilings and roofs as required by Clause 5.3.3.
5.3.2 Walls and partitions
Except as provided for in Clause 5.1.3, the distance of sprinklers from walls or partitions
shall be as specified for the appropriate hazard class (see Clauses 9.4.4, 10.4.5 or 11.3.
For open-joisted ceilings or where the roof has exposed common rafters (see Clause 13.23),
the distances from walls and partitions referred to in Clause 9.4.4, 10.4.5 or 11.3 as
appropriate, shall not exceed 1.5 m.
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Sprinklers shall be placed not more than 1.5 m from external walls where these are
constructed of
(a)
combustible material;
(b)
(c)
metal (whether on wood or metal frame and with or without combustible lining)
protected with a coating of bitumen, tar or pitch, or with material impregnated or
treated with bitumen, tar or pitch.
Open-faced buildings shall have sprinklers not more than 1.5 m from the open face.
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NOTE: Illustration shows acceptable staggered arrangement for Ordinary Hazard where it is desired to space
sprinklers more than 4.2 m apart on range pipes.
Unless specifically varied by a listed sprinkler data sheet, the following requirements apply
to sprinklers located below ceilings, roofs and stairs.
(a) Sprinkler deflectors shall be parallel to any slope of the ceiling, roof or underside of
stairs.
(b) Spacing measurements shall be taken horizontally.
(c) When fitted under a sloping surface that is greater than 1 in 3, a line of sprinklers
shall be fitted at the apex unless there is a row of sprinklers at a radial distance not
greater than 750 mm from the apex.
(d) Sprinklers shall not be recessed in sloping ceilings unless specifically manufactured
for such mounting.
(e) Sprinklers shall be located not more than 300 mm below combustible or frangible
ceilings or roofs.
(f)
Sprinklers shall be located not more than 450 mm below ceilings or roofs containing
no combustible material.
(g) For open joists and exposed common rafter construction, measurements shall be taken
from the underside of joists or rafters.
(h) Deflectors shall be not more than 150 mm below joists of open-joist ceilings.
(i)
Measurements in Items (e) and (f) above for arched ceilings or ceilings of irregular
shape shall be taken from the highest point in the ceiling.
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The following requirements shall apply to the spacing and location of sidewall sprinklers:
(a) The sprinklers (see Clauses 1.3.30(f)) shall be mounted with their deflectors not more
than 150 mm and not less than 100 mm from the ceiling.
(b) The centre-line of the sprinklers shall be not less than 50 mm and not more than
150 mm from the wall face on which they are mounted.
(c) There shall be no obstruction at the ceiling within an area extending along the wall
1 m on each side of a sprinkler and 1.8 m at right angles to the wall.
(d) Beams on any boundary of this area shall not exceed a depth of 100 mm.
(e) If sprinklers are mounted closer to beams than the distances specified in Clause 5.5.3,
the bays formed shall be separately protected.
5.4.2 Spacing of special sidewall sprinklers
The maximum area of coverage per sprinkler and the maximum and minimum distances
between sprinklers on range pipes and between adjacent rows of sprinklers shall be listed
for the particular design requirements for the sprinkler
5.4.3 Maximum spacing of sidewall sprinklers
The spacing of sidewall sprinklers along the walls and from end walls shall be appropriate
to the hazard class (see Clause 9.4.4 or 10.4.4).
5.4.4 Distance between rows of sprinklers
The distance between rows of sprinklers shall comply with the following requirements:
(a) Rooms not exceeding 3.7 m in width shall have a minimum of one row of sprinklers
along the length of the room.
(b) Rooms exceeding 3.7 m but not exceeding 7.4 m in width shall have one row of
sprinklers at each side along the length of the room.
(c) In rooms exceeding 7.4 m in width, conventional, spray or ceiling type sprinklers
shall be provided centrally positioned under the ceiling to supplement the sidewall
sprinklers.
In rooms exceeding 9.2 m in length (Light Hazard) or 7.4 m in length (Ordinary Hazard),
the sprinklers shall be regularly staggered so that they face midway between the sprinklers
on the opposing wall.
5.5 OBSTRUCTIONS TO SPRINKLER DISCHARGE
5.5.1 General
Structural members such as beams, joists and columns, together with other features of the
building such as ductwork, pipes, cable trays, light fittings and bulkheads in close
proximity to the ceiling shall be treated as obstructions to sprinkler discharge. Unless
specifically varied by a listed sprinkler data sheet, the requirements of Clauses 5.5.2 to
5.5.9 shall apply:
5.5.2 Standard upright and pendent sprinklers
Where deflectors of sprinklers are above the level of the bottom of obstructions, the
sprinklers shall be at such distances from the obstruction that undue interference with the
sprinkler discharge pattern is avoided.
The clearances required from obstructions are dependent upon the maximum coverage of
the sprinkler being used, and are shown in Figure 5.5.2 and Table 5.5.2.
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Where the depth of a beam (see Figure 5.5.2(B)) exceeds 300 mm (non-fire-resisting
ceilings) or 450 mm (fire-resisting ceilings) and it is impracticable to position sprinklers at
the required distance from the side of the beam, the beam shall be treated as a wall insofar
as the sprinklers in the adjoining bay are concerned. In no case shall the sprinkler spacing
exceed that specified in Clause 5.1.
Where the depth of beams (or joists) is such that the dimensions specified in Table 5.5.2
cannot be complied with and the beams (or joists) are spaced closer than 1.8 m measured
from centre-to-centre of the beam, the sprinklers shall be stagger-spaced (see Clause 5.1.3).
For columns causing obstruction to sprinkler discharge, see Clause 5.5.4 and Figure 5.5.4.
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TABLE 5.5.2
CLEARANCES FROM OBSTRUCTIONSSTANDARD SPRINKLERS
Dimension BMaximum height of deflector above obstruction/beam
Dimension A
Conventional
pendent
Conventional
upright
12 m 2
SSU/SSP
21 m 2
SSU/SSP
100
N/A
N/A
200
N/A
20
20
300
N/A
10
40
15
400
N/A
60
30
500
N/A
15
85
45
600
N/A
30
115
60
700
N/A
45
145
85
800
N/A
60
180
110
900
N/A
80
215
140
1000
200
100
250
170
1100
185
120
290
200
1200
170
140
320
230
1300
145
165
370
265
1400
120
190
410
300
1500
75
225
450
335
1600
30
260
370
1700
70
325
410
1800
170
390
NOTE: Where the sprinkler deflector is required to be below the obstruction, dimension B is
shown as negative (ve)
Where the centre-line of sidewall sprinklers is above the level of the bottom of obstructions,
the sprinklers shall be at such distances from the obstruction that interference with the
sprinkler discharge pattern is avoided.
The clearances required from obstructions are dependent upon the maximum coverage of
the sprinkler being used and are shown in Figure 5.5.3 and Table 5.5.3 for standard sidewall
sprinklers.
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65
TABLE 5.5.3
CLEARANCES FROM OBSTRUCTIONS FOR STANDARD
SIDEWALL SPRINKLERS
Dimension B (Max.)
Dimension A
(Min)
Normal to wall
Parallel to wall
100
150
25
200
35
300
60
400
80
500
100
600
120
700
140
800
160
900
185
1000
205
1100
225
1200
245
1300
15
265
1400
25
285
1500
40
305
1600
55
325
1700
75
345
1800
90
365
1900
110
385
2000
135
405
2100
160
430
2200
185
450
2300
220
2400
255
2500
290
2600
350
Where individual sprinklers are located near columns, the following spacing and location
requirements shall apply as appropriate (see Figure 5.5.4):
66
Where sidewall sprinklers are located near columns, the following spacing and location
requirements shall apply (see Figure 5.5.5): Dimension A shall be greater than 3B or 3C
(whichever is greater) but not less than 600 mm.
Sprinklers shall be not less than 300 mm laterally from truss members that are 100 mm
nominal or less in width. Where truss member widths exceed 100 mm, the sprinklers shall
be not less than a radial distance from the member of 4 times the height or width of the
truss member, whichever is the greater.
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Except as permitted in Clause 5.5.8, Clause 5.6.2 and Clause 11.1.3.3(b), a clear space not
less than 500 mm shall always be maintained below the level of the sprinkler deflectors
throughout the compartment. For high-stack combustible storage, a clear space not less than
1 m shall be maintained below the level of the sprinkler deflectors throughout the
compartment. Where sloping ceilings or roofs are concerned, stored goods may follow the
slope, provided that the above clearances are maintained.
For rolling storage cabinets, a clear space below the level of sprinkler deflectors may be
reduced to not less than 100 mm provided the maximum area coverage is reduced to 9 m2
per sprinkler.
5.5.8 Obstructions in clear space
Where there are obstructions such as girders, ducting, cable trays, pipe racks and
continuous lighting less than 800 mm and more than 300 mm wide that are either wholly or
partly within the required clear space, specified in Clause 5.5.7, there shall be a line of
sprinklers located either side of the centre-line of the obstruction and at no more than half
the allowable design spacing from the centre-line of the obstruction. Where the obstruction
is less than 300 mm wide, the radial distance from the sprinkler deflector to the nearest
point of the obstruction shall be not less than 4 times the height or width of the obstruction,
whichever is the greater.
5.5.9 Obstructions under sprinklers
5.5.9.1 General
Where obstructions below sprinklers are such that the operation of sprinklers could be
delayed or effective distribution of water from the sprinklers could be impaired, additional
sprinklers shall be mounted below such obstructions in accordance with Clauses 5.5.9.2 to
5.5.9.7.
5.5.9.2 Overhead platforms
Sprinklers shall be installed below internal overhead platforms, heating panels, galleries,
walkways, stagings, stairs and stairways and chutes exceeding 800 mm wide and closer than
150 mm to adjacent walls.
Where the clearance from adjacent walls exceeds 150 mm, sprinklers shall be fitted below
any such structure that exceeds 1 m in width.
5.5.9.3 Ducts, bulkheads and beams
Sprinklers shall be installed under rectangular ducts, bulkheads and beams exceeding
800 mm in width and under circular ducts exceeding 1 m in diameter. Where there is at
least 150 mm clearance from adjacent walls, the width without protection may be 1 m and
1.2 m, respectively.
Where a duct is erected with the top of the duct less than 500 mm below the ceiling or roof,
it shall be regarded as a beam and the requirements of Clauses 5.5.2 or 5.5.3 shall apply.
5.5.9.4 Suspended ceilings
Sprinklers shall be installed below suspended ceilings, e.g., in connection with diffused
lighting, except where the ceiling construction does not impair the effective water
distribution from the sprinklers above (see also Clause 5.5.9.5).
5.5.9.5 Suspended open grid ceilings
Sprinkler protection shall be provided above and below suspended open grid ceilings to the
appropriate hazard classification. Sprinklers may be omitted from below open grid ceilings
with the appropriate hazard classification installed above the grid, provided that
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(a) the minimum dimension of the openings in the grid is not less than 25 mm or the
vertical thickness of the suspended ceiling, whichever is the greater;
(b) suspended open grid ceilings in Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard occupancies do
not involve storage areas;
(c) the open area of the ceiling grid is not less than 70% of the total plan area;
(d) where services are installed within the grid ceiling, e.g., light fittings, these features
do not reduce the open area to less than 60%;
(e) only spray sprinklers are used;
(f)
the vertical distance between sprinkler deflectors and the top of the ceiling grid is not
less than 800 mm; and
(g) wherever obstructions above the ceiling grid would cause interference to the sprinkler
discharge pattern, the sprinkler is located in accordance with the provisions of
Section 5.
5.5.9.6 Hoods over papermaking machines
The underside of hoods or shields over the dry ends of papermaking machines shall be
sprinkler protected. Sidewall sprinklers (see Clause 5.4) may be used for this purpose.
Sprinklers shall be fitted in such positions as to afford efficient protection to goods stored
in racks (see Clause 11.1.3).
Storage fixtures wider than 2 m shall be fitted with sprinklers at each shelf level.
Storage racks and fixtures wider than 1.2 m but not wider than 2 m shall be
(a)
(b)
fitted with bulkheads that shall divide the fixture into areas not exceeding 9 m2, with
the distance between bulkheads not exceeding 6 m, provided that the total storage
height does not exceed the values given in Table 11.1.3.2(B).
Such bulkheads shall be tight partitions extending from front to rear faces and from
top to bottom of the storage spaces. They shall be constructed from one of the
following materials:
(i)
(ii)
13 mm hardboard.
(iii) 16 mm chipboard.
(iv)
(v)
Concealed spaces between ceilings and roofs or floors above, and below false floors, shall
be fitted with sprinklers. The following spaces are exempt from the requirements of this
Clause:
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(a) Concealed spaces less than 200 mm in depth measured from the top of the ceiling
material or the floor to the underside of the structure above.
(b) Concealed spaces bounded entirely by non-combustible construction, not
communicating with other sprinkler protected spaces, not used for storage of any
kind and containing only
(i)
lighting, power and data cables to AS/NZS 3000, in groups of not more than
15 cables or in cable trays containing not more than 15 cables, where each cable
group or cable tray shall have a clear space of at least 4 times the width of the
cable group or cable tray;
(ii)
(iii) metal ducting with insulation and flexible connections complying with the
requirements of AS 4254; or
(iv)
Where sprinkler protection is required in concealed spaces, the sprinklers shall be fast
response, Light Hazard spray sprinklers in accordance with Light Hazard requirements (see
Section 9) except that the provisions contained in Clause 5.7 need not apply. The
requirements of Clause 5.5 need not apply except where it is impractical to position
sprinklers sufficiently from ductwork or beams in which case, they shall be treated as a
wall.
Concealed spaces exceeding 200 mm but not greater than 800 mm in depth and not
qualifying under Clause 5.6.1(b) shall be fitted with
(a) fire and draft stops provided at intervals not exceeding 15 m in each direction; or
(b) 42 m2 skeleton spacing of fast response, Light Hazard spray sprinklers, spaced at
maximum of 6.0 m 7.0 m.
Concealed spaces used intermittently or permanently as storage areas shall be protected by
sprinklers suitable for and in accordance with the appropriate hazard classification.
5.6.3 Hydraulic designconcealed spaces
Where sprinkler protection is required in concealed spaces and under floor spaces to satisfy
the requirements of Clause 5.6.1, it shall be hydraulically designed in accordance with the
requirements of Section 9.
5.6.4 Deformable ceilings
All concealed spaces above ceilings constructed of materials that will readily deform or
collapse under fire conditions (e.g., vinyl, acrylic, polyurethane and polystyrene plastics),
shall be sprinkler protected in accordance with the hazard classification of the area below.
Sprinkler protection may be omitted from below the ceiling only where the ceiling is
designed to deform or collapse.
5.7 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS (SUPPLEMENTARY
REQUIRED SPRINKLER SYSTEMS.
PROTECTION)
FOR
Machinery pits and the underside of production lines, where waste may collect, shall be
protected.
5.7.2 Hoists, lift shafts, building services shafts and enclosed chutes
Sprinklers shall be installed in all hoists, lift shafts, service shafts and chutes that are inside
or in communication with buildings. The positioning of the sprinklers shall be as follows:
70
(a) Hoists, lift shafts and sheave rooms Sprinklers shall be installed in the top and base
of each hoist and lift shaft. Sprinklers installed in lift shafts and sheave rooms shall
be protected by stout metal guards and shall have a temperature rating of not less
than 100C in accordance with the appropriate part of AS 1735.
(b) Building services shafts Shafts housing air-handling ducts and other building
services that are not sealed at each floor level and are provided with access panels or
doors shall have sprinklers fitted at vertical intervals of 15 m in addition to that at
the head of the shaft.
(c) Chutes Chutes for disposal of refuse, soiled linen, and similar, shall have a sprinkler
in the head of each chute. Chutes in buildings exceeding two storeys in height shall
have a sprinkler fitted at each alternate level in addition to that at the head of the
chute.
All sprinklers installed in chutes and shafts shall be protected from mechanical damage and
shall be fitted, where necessary, with suitable baffles in order to prevent the first operating
sprinkler from wetting the lower sprinklers.
5.7.3 Elevators, rope or strap races, exhaust ducts, gearing boxes and dust receivers
A sprinkler shall be fitted in the box at the top of every elevator. Pneumatic type elevators
are exempt from this requirement as well as those that comprise a slow moving endless
chain fitted with rings, loops or forks, capable of functioning only when the elevator is full.
The sprinkler in each case shall be so placed as to command the head and both legs or
shafts of the elevator.
Sprinklers shall be fitted internally in all rope or strap races, enclosed belt or shaft machine
drives and gearing box compartments.
Where exhaust fans are installed within ducts conveying dust or refuse, a sprinkler shall be
fitted inside the duct immediately downstream of the fan.
To prevent obstruction and mechanical damage, the sprinkler shall be recessed within a
purpose-built metal box mounted on the duct.
Sprinklers shall not be installed on the underside of the ducts.
Sprinklers shall be fitted in dust cyclones, collection chambers and boxes where these are
(a) housed within the protected building;
(b) erected outside and directly above the protected building unless the roof is of
non-combustible construction; or
(c) external to but connected with and closely adjacent to the protected buildings.
Where dust cyclones, collection chambers and boxes are erected above non-combustible
roofs or where they are situated remote from the protected buildings, at least one sprinkler
shall be fitted inside the trunking where it leaves the protected building.
5.7.4 Corn, rice, provender and oil mills
Sprinklers shall be fitted in corn, rice, provender and oil mills as follows:
(a)
Sprinklers shall be fitted not more than 3 m apart inside all dust trunks that are more
than 30 from the vertical and constructed of combustible materials.
(b)
Where centrifugals or similar machines are placed one above another in tiers as shown in
Figure 5.7.4 and are less than 1 m from each other, sprinklers shall be fitted in the spaces as
shown.
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All bins and silos of combustible construction with a plan area in excess of 9 m2, used for
the storage of flour, bran, or other similar material that has undergone any process of
reduction (in such premises as flour mills, granaries, oil mills or distilleries) or for the
storage of sawdust, wood flour, pulverized coal and similar easily ignitable materials that
can be extinguished by water shall be internally protected by sprinklers on the basis of one
sprinkler per 9 m2 of the bin or silo area (see also Clause 10.4.3).
NOTE: If the bin or silo contains materials that will swell when wet and are likely to incur the
risk of bursting, exemption from this Clause may be allowed (see Clause 3.1.2(b)).
5.7.6 Escalators
Sprinklers shall be fitted under the escalator and in the escalator boot and motor space.
Where limited space prevents this, sprinklers shall be fitted in any surrounding ceiling or
floor space immediately adjacent to the escalator. These sprinklers shall be fitted regardless
of the provisions of Clauses 5.7.1 and 5.7.2.
5.7.7 Canopies
Sprinklers shall be installed under all canopies where goods are stored or handled or where
the dividing wall between the canopy and the building is of non-combustible construction.
In the case of canopies of non-combustible construction less than 2.5 m in width over
pedestrian walkways, or any width over public footpaths, sprinklers may be omitted.
5.7.8 Roof overhang
Sprinklers shall be installed under exterior docks and loading platforms of wholly or
partially combustible construction. Where such spaces are completely sealed against the
accumulation of debris, this requirement does not apply.
5.7.10 Covered balconies
Portions of covered balconies that exceed 6 m2 floor area and have a depth in excess of 2 m
shall be sprinkler protected.
5.7.11 Enclosed paint lines, drying ovens, drying enclosures
Sprinkler protection shall be provided inside enclosed paint lines, drying ovens and drying
enclosures. Sidewall sprinklers (see Clause 5.4) may be used for this purpose.
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NOTE: Where practicable, sprinklers in ambient temperatures above 70C should be on a dry
system, or the feed pipes thereto should rise up to the sprinklers or groups of sprinklers so as to
restrict the thermal circulation of the heated water in the pipes.
Sprinkler protection shall be provided inside spray booths and connected exhaust ducts.
Sprinklers installed within spray booths and connected exhaust ducts shall be protected
against the accumulation of residue from spraying operations by a liberal coating of
petroleum jelly and paper bags, which shall be cleaned off and renewed as often as may be
necessary to prevent the formation of a hard deposit on the sprinklers and so preserve their
efficiency. Plastic bags or other protective covering shall not be used for this purpose.
5.7.13 Oil and flammable liquid hazards
Sprinkler protection shall be provided for all oil and flammable liquid hazards.
NOTES:
1 Examples of such hazards include dip tanks and oil-filled electrical transformers.
2 It is recognized that in certain cases modified or supplementary protection may be required
where extensive storage, handling or processing equipment such as large dip tanks, varnish
kettles, reactors or oil-filled electrical transformers are employed. In these cases medium or
high-velocity sprayers or other arrangements may be employed in lieu of or in conjunction
with sprinklers, provided that adequate water supplies are available.
3 Electricity supply authorities may not permit sprinklers in the vicinity of transformers
installed on private property.
Sprinkler protection shall be provided under hoods, and above cooking equipment and
associated ventilation systems designed to carry away grease-laden vapours. Sprinklers
shall be located not more than 3.6 m apart under hoods, 4 m apart in horizontal ducts, and at
the head of all rising ducts. The first sprinkler in a horizontal duct shall be installed
adjacent to the duct entrance (see Figures 5.7.14 (A) and (B)).
The system shall be designed so that a cooking surface fire will operate the sprinklers
protecting the cooking surface prior to or simultaneously with those protecting the
connected ductwork. This may be accomplished by installing sprinklers in the ducts one
temperature rating higher than those protecting the cooking surface, but in any event, not
less than 182C.
Deep fat fryers shall have one spray pattern sprinkler centred longitudinally over each
single fryer or pair of fryers. Such sprinklers shall operate at not less than 200 kPa and shall
have their frames parallel to the front edge of the hood. Their deflectors shall be located at
least 25 mm below the lower edge of the hood and not less than 600 mm nor more than
1.2 m above and parallel to the cooking surface. Pipework and fittings shall be stainless
steel and sprinklers shall be chromium plated.
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NOTE: Multiple ducts from canopy need not be sprinkler protected if the common plenum duct is used.
74
NOTE: All pipework, fittings and sprinklers to be stainless steel (not painted).
DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
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Standards Australia
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Sprinklers protecting the surrounding area shall be arranged so that they do not cause water
to fall into deep fat fryers. Where this is accomplished by the provision of a shield or
unducted hood over the deep fat fryer, such shield or hood shall be placed above the shroud
protecting the deep fat fryer and shall be so located that it will not interfere with sprinkler
discharge.
5.7.15 Air-handling plant
5.7.15.1 Location of sprinklers
5.7.15.2 Exceptions
Sprinklers may be omitted from air-handling plants that have an external plan area less than
12 m2 and an external height less than 2 m.
Sprinklers shall not be installed in fan/motor chambers through which spill air is designed
to pass under fire conditions in accordance with AS/NZS 1668.1.
5.7.16 Computer and other electronic equipment areas
5.7.16.1 Location of sprinklers
The space beneath any raised floor shall be treated in accordance with Clause 5.6.1.
5.7.17 Cupboards and wardrobes
Built-in cupboards and wardrobes for Light and Ordinary Hazard occupancies where the
floor area does not exceed 2.5 m2, the walls and ceilings are lined with non-combustible
materials and are not used for the storage of flammable liquids may have sprinklers omitted.
Sprinklers in the adjoining room shall be positioned such that they would cover the area of
the cupboard/wardrobe if the door was in the open position.
5.7.18 Film and television production studios
In addition to the normal sprinkler protection of the roof, sprinklers shall be placed under
the gridiron, under the flies, under the stage and in every portion on the stage side of the
proscenium wall.
Where the provision of a line of open drenchers or open sprinklers on a fixed fire curtain is
required, the control assemblies shall be of the quick-opening type and shall be located in a
readily accessible position. Where the water supply to these open drenchers or sprinklers is
taken from the sprinkler system, the flow and pressure requirements shall be added to the
normal system requirements.
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Wet type sprinkler systems may be used to protect cold chambers where the ambient
temperature cannot fall below 4 OC and the temperature conditions in the area where the
piping is installed are such that there is no danger at any time of the water in the pipes
freezing.
Dry pendent sprinklers shall be installed in air-circulating system plenums formed by one or
more false ceilings within the cold chamber.
NOTE: Where practicable, sprinkler piping should be located in normal temperature conditions
above the cold chamber with dry pendent sprinklers connected thereto penetrating into the cold
chamber.
Air circulation fans shall be closed down automatically on operation of the sprinkler
system.
5.7.20.2 Piping within the cold chamber
The following special conditions shall apply where it is necessary to install the piping
within the cold chamber, or where it is desired to house the sprinkler piping within a single
small cold chamber:
(a) The sprinkler installation in the cool room shall be of the permanent dry type and the
maximum number of sprinklers controlled by one dry valve shall not exceed 50.
These groups of 50 sprinklers may be installed as tail-end dry systems on the basis
of at least one control assembly (wet, dry or alternate wet and dry, as circumstances
dictate) for each five groups.
Each tail-end system shall be controlled by a subsidiary stop valve (see Clause 8.2.4)
and shall include either a water flow alarm switch or an electric alarm pressure switch
(see Clause 8.13.5) to indicate the particular Section that is operating. These sectional
warning systems are additional to the water motor alarm on the main control
assembly. Where there is a series of tail-end systems and one main control assembly
operating on the dry or alternate wet and dry principle, care needs to be taken to
ensure that the air/gas pressure on the tail-end system is maintained at not less than
the air pressure in the system between the control assembly and the tail-end dry
valves.
Differential dry valves used in tail-end systems connected to an installation operating
on the dry or alternate wet and dry principle shall be suitably modified to retain air
pressure in the system piping between the main control assembly and the underside of
the tail-end dry valves.
(b) Sprinklers installed in an air circulation plenum formed by a false ceiling within the
cold chamber may be disregarded when determining the maximum number of
sprinklers required under Item (a) above if the sprinklers are fed from the piping
feeding the sprinklers in the cold chamber.
(c) The air supply for charging the sprinkler system shall be taken from the cold
chamber, from the freezers of lowest temperature or through a chemical dehydrator.
Compressed nitrogen gas in cylinders may be used as a substitute for air; provided a
pressure-reducing valve is used to reduce the gas pressure to not more than 800 kPa
to avoid over-pressurizing the system piping.
(d) Piping joints shall be of a high standard of gas-tightness.
(e) The system shall be provided with a low air/gas pressure alarm.
(f)
Dry pipe valves shall be housed outside the cold chamber in areas where the
temperature is maintained above 4C. Where valves are normally provided with a
liquid seal, because of the problem of evaporation and possible ice formation in the
piping, the sealing medium shall be a fluid such as propylene glycol.
(g) All piping downstream of the dry valve shall be installed above ground such that it
can be readily dismantled and reinstated to permit thorough purging of moisture
after operation.
Pipe jointing and hangers shall permit easy removal of the piping and an inspection
point shall be provided at the position of entry into the cold chamber. Changes of
direction shall be made by using tees with one branch sealed off instead of elbows.
Pipes shall be sloped to drain (see Clause 7.4).
(h) Notwithstanding the requirements of Clause 2.1.2.4, sprinklers may be installed in
either the upright or the pendent position, having regard to the necessity for the
sprinkler system to be dismantled for drying out after each operation.
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SECTI O N
AND
6.1 GENERAL
Sprinklers shall not be altered in any respect nor have any type of ornamentation or
coatings applied after leaving the production factory except as permitted by Clauses 5.7.12
and 6.8.
6.2 TYPES OF SPRINKLERS, SPRAYERS AND MULTIPLE CONTROLS
6.2.1 Standard sprinklers
Sidewall sprinklers .
(j)
(k) Control mode sprinklers, identified by K factors, other than extended coverage and
large drop sprinklers.
6.2.2 Special sprinklers
Special sprinklers are listed sprinklers other than those types listed in AS 4118.1.1. Systems
incorporating special sprinklers shall be designed in accordance with Clause 2.1.3 (see
Clause 1.3.26).
Special sprinklers include the following (see Clause 1.3.26):
(a) Extended coverage sprinklers.
(b) Control mode special application sprinklers (large drop sprinkler).
(c) Suppression mode sprinklers (early suppression fast response sprinklers).
(d) Residential sprinklers.
6.2.3 Sprayers
Sprayers in an installation shall be medium- or high-velocity type. Medium- and highvelocity sprinklers are special purpose sprayers for use in water spray systems, which may
or may not form part of sprinkler systems intended for the extinguishing or controlling of
fires involving flammable liquids and for the cooling of storage tanks, process plant and
exposed structural steel work against heat from an exposure fire.
6.2.4 Multiple controls
Multiple controls shall be selected in accordance with their listing (see Clause 1.3.20).
C6.2.4 Multiple controls are used in systems with medium-velocity or high-velocity
sprayers of the open type in circumstances where it is required to operate small
groups of sprayers simultaneously. They are also used in connection with bypass piping
for alarm purposes. The controls are made in various sizes relevant to the diameter of
the valve and the number of sprayers that are to be fed therefrom. The sizes range from
20 mm to 80 mm.
6.3 HYDRAULIC CHARACTERISTICS OF STANDARD SPRINKLERS
Standard sprinklers shall have minimum hydraulic characteristics as detailed in Table 6.3.
TABLE 6.3
MINIMUM HYDRAULIC CHARACTERISTICS OF SPRINKLERS
K factor
(K = Q/ P)
(see Note 3)
Flow L/min
Pressure kPa
Light Hazard
5.7 5%
48
(see Note 1)
Ordinary Hazard
8.0 5%
60
(see Note 1)
(see Note 2)
50
High Hazard
As determined and
selected by
hydraulic analysis
but not less than
8.0 5%
Minimum characteristics
NOTES:
1
Large orifice sprinklers shall be spray sprinklers and typically have nominal K factors of
16.0 5%, 20.0 5%, 24.0 5% or 36.0 5% (see Clause 12.11.2 for application of K
factors for dry pendent or upright sprinklers).
6.4
The types of sprinkler for the appropriate hazard class shall be limited to those nominated
in Clauses 9.4.1, 10.4.1 and 11.4.1.1 except as permitted in Clauses 9.4.5 and 10.4.6.
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The temperature ratings chosen shall be not less than 30C above the highest anticipated
temperature conditions except under the following circumstances :
(a) In locations that are directly exposed to the sun, such as
(i)
under glazing;
(ii)
(v)
NOTE: Under glazing, translucent plastics and uninsulated metal roofs, in unventilated concealed
spaces and show windows on external walls, and in other locations that are directly exposed to the
sun, it may be necessary to install sprinklers with a temperature rating between 79C and 100C.
(b) In High Hazard systems protecting high-stack storage, sprinklers having a minimum
nominal temperature rating of 141C shall be used at the roof or ceiling, except
where in the case of special sprinklers, the listing recommends an alternative
temperature rating.
(c) Where high-temperature sprinklers are installed within drying ovens or hoods over
papermaking machines and the like (see Clauses 5.7.11 and 5.5.9.6) sprinklers at the
ceiling or roof immediately over and to a distance of 3 m beyond the boundary of
such structures shall be of the same temperature rating, subject to a maximum of
141C.
6.6 COLOUR CODING
The colour code specified in AS 4118.1.1 shall be used to distinguish sprinklers of different
nominal temperature ratings.
6.7 ANTI-CORROSION TREATMENT OF SPRINKLERS
Sprinklers used in bleach, dye and textile print works, alkali plants, organic fertilizer plants,
foundries, pickle and vinegar works, electroplating and galvanizing works, paper mills,
tanneries, and in any other premises or portions of premises where corrosive vapours are
prevalent, shall have corrosion-resistant coatings or shall be coated twice with a petroleum
jelly. The first coat shall be applied before installation and the second shall be applied after
installation.
NOTE: Coatings need to be renewed at periodic intervals as may be necessary but only after the
existing coatings have been thoroughly wiped off. For glass bulb-type sprinklers, the anti-corrosion
treatment need only be applied to the body and yoke.
Where sprinklers are installed in locations where they are likely to suffer mechanical
damage, they shall be fitted with metal guards. Guards shall be designed so as not to
interfere with the normal spray pattern of the sprinkler. Guards shall not be used with flush,
recessed or concealed-type sprinklers.
6.9 ESCUTCHEON PLATE ASSEMBLIES
Escutcheon plate assemblies fitted to sprinklers shall be of metal and securely attached so
that they cannot slip down and adversely affect activation or the water discharge pattern of
sprinklers.
Recessed escutcheon plate assemblies shall only be used with sprinklers that have been
listed for such mounting (see Clause 6.2.1(d)).
C6.9 Non-metallic escutcheon plate assemblies may deteriorate with age or distort
during fire conditions and interfere with the effective operation of the sprinkler.
6.10 PROTECTION AGAINST FROST
Sprinklers shall not be wrapped or enclosed in any material for protection against frost.
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SECTI O N
PIPING
All pipes and pipe fittings in a sprinkler installation shall be new and shall comply with the
requirements of AS 4118.2.1.
7.2 HYDRAULIC TEST PRESSURE
All new installations, trunk mains and water supply connections shall be capable of
withstanding an hydraulic test pressure as specified in Clause 7.8.3.
7.3 PIPING IN NON-SPRINKLER-PROTECTED BUILDINGS
With the exception of concealed spaces not requiring protection as permitted in Clause 5.6,
and fire-isolated exits, sprinkler piping shall not pass through buildings or areas not
protected by sprinklers unless it is enclosed by a construction suitable to resist fire exposure
for a period not less than the required duration of water supply applicable to the system;
namely, Light Hazard, Ordinary Hazard or High Hazard.
7.4 DRAINAGE
7.4.1 Wet system piping
In basements and other areas where sprinkler piping is below the installation drain valve
and in trapped sections of distribution piping, auxiliary drain valves of the
following minimum sizes shall be provided:
(a) For pipes up to DN 50...................... ..............................................................20 mm.
(b) For DN 65 pipes .................. .......................................................................25 mm.
(c) For pipes larger than DN 65 .............. ...............................................32 mm.
NOTE: Distribution piping should, where possible, be arranged to enable the installation to be
drained using the drain valve at the installation control assembly. The installation drain valve should
be not less than DN 50 for Ordinary Hazard and High Hazard systems and not less than DN 40 for
Light Hazard systems.
Sprinklers forming part of dry or alternate wet and dry systems shall be so installed that the
system can be thoroughly drained. Range piping shall have a slope of not less than 4 mm in
1 m, and distribution piping shall have a slope of not less than 2 mm in 1 m.
NOTE: Piping in all systems, including piping in wet systems, should, where possible, be arranged
to drain to the installation drain valve which should be not less than DN 50 for Ordinary Hazard and
High Hazard systems and not less than DN 40 for Light Hazard systems.
C7.4 Having an effective drainage facility does not improve the performance of the
system; however, it is desirable when servicing a wet pipe installation and essential for
dry and alternate wet and dry installations. Water damage can easily occur when
cutting installation piping that is still charged with water when carrying out repairs or
alterations.
7.5 FLEXIBLE TUBE ASSEMBLIES
Flexible tube assemblies for the connection of individual sprinklers to rigid pipework above
suspended ceilings shall comply with the following:
(ii)
(b) The flexible tube shall be of metal construction and shall be braided.
(c) The flexible tube shall form part of an assembly that includes factory-fitted
connections at each end, together with means for fixing the assembly to the ceiling
support.
(d) The physical length shall be not greater than 3.7 m.
(e) The equivalent length of the assembly used for hydraulic calculations shall be in
accordance with the manufacturers listing and be inclusive of two 90 bends.
(f)
Orifice plates fitted to assist in hydraulically balancing a High Hazard class system or to
meet pump characteristic curves shall have an orifice diameter of not less than 50% of the
diameter of the pipe into which the plate is to be fitted and shall comply with the
requirements of Appendix C. Such orifice plates shall be permitted only in pipes of DN 50
or larger.
7.7 SUPPORT OF SPRINKLER PIPING
7.7.1 General
When a pipe support system is being designed for a fire sprinkler system, consideration
shall be given to the correct location of pipe supports and to
(a) the stresses and loads that may be imposed on the support system from all external
causes, including differential movement of the building structure, and all internal
causes, including pressure reactions;
(b) the transmission of vibration from the building to the piping and from the piping to
the building; and
(c) the effect a corrosive atmosphere may have on the materials used.
Fire sprinkler piping support systems shall comply with the requirements of Clauses 7.7.2
to 7.7.7.6.
7.7.2 Design
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year to five years according to the severity of the conditions. As an alternative to the above
treatment, galvanized pipe supports may be used.
7.7.4 Requirements for pipe support components (see Figures 7.7.8.1(A) and (B))
7.7.4.1 Hook bolts
DN 50
>DN 50
DN 80
10
U-bolts clamping down shall comply with the dimensions given in Table 7.7.4.2:
TABLE 7.7.4.2
U-BOLTS CLAMPING DOWN
Pipe size
DN 50
DN 150
10
12
15
>DN 50
U-bolts clamping up and rods shall comply with the dimensions given in Table 7.7.4.3:
TABLE 7.7.4.3
U-BOLTS CLAMPING UP AND RODS
Pipe size
DN 50
DN 150
12
15
20
>DN 50
U-hangers (clips) shall comply with the dimensions given in Table 7.7.4.4:
TABLE 7.7.4.4
U-HANGERS (CLIPS)
Nominal pipe size
DN 40
1.6 25
> DN 40
DN 65
3 25
> DN 65
DN 150
6 30
Cantilever type supports, saddle brackets, girder or beam clamps shall be designed in
accordance with Clause 7.7.2.
7.7.4.6 Pipe bands
Pipe bands shall be fabricated from material complying with the following requirements:
(a) For non-corrosive atmospheres, in accordance with Table 7.7.4.6.
(b) For corrosive atmospheres, not less than 3 mm thick.
TABLE 7.7.4.6
PIPE BANDS
Pipe size
DN 100
> DN 100
Max. span 3 m
DN 40
40 40 6
65 40 6
> DN 40 DN 65
65 40 6
75 50 6
> DN 65 DN 150
100 65 8
100 75 8
NOTE: Where unequal angle is used, the longer arms should be vertical.
Sprinkler piping may be supported from the building structure, provided the structure is
capable of supporting the load. Where sprinklers are located below ducts, the piping may be
supported from the duct supports, provided these have sufficient strength to support the
combined design load.
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Sprinkler piping shall be supported independently of ceiling sheathing and any associated
suspension system.
7.7.5.2 Fixing to concrete, brick or masonry
Wooden plugs or plugs of plastic material shall not be used for fixing pipe supports to
concrete, brick or masonry. Explosive-powered fasteners (see AS 1873) through-bolts,
expanding metal fasteners, or bolts or screws set in concrete may be used in this type of
construction for fixing pipe supports. The fixing shall be capable of supporting the design
load as required in Clause 7.7.2.
7.7.5.3 Fixing to timber
Acceptable methods of fixing to timber are wood screws, drive screws, coach screws and
coach bolts. Nails shall not be used for fixing pipe supports to timber.
The following requirements shall apply:
(a) Wood screws shall not be hammer driven.
(b) Drive screws shall not be used for securing upwards.
(c) Wood screws or drive screws shall not be used for fixing piping exceeding DN 50.
(d) The fixing shall be capable of supporting the design load specified in Clause 7.7.2.
(e) Coach bolts and coach screws shall conform to the minimum dimensions given in
Table 7.7.5.3.
TABLE 7.7.5.3
FIXING TO TIMBER
Pipe size
Nominal diameter of
coach bolt or coach
screw (mm)
Nominal length of
coach screw (mm)
DN 50
50
> DN 50 DN 150
12
75
15
75
Explosive-powered fasteners may be used for fixing pipe supports to steel, provided the
steel is not less than 5 mm thick. The fixing shall be capable of supporting the design load
specified in Clause 7.7.2.
7.7.6 Spacing of supports
The distance between supports for horizontal and vertical sprinkler piping shall be in
accordance with Table 7.7.6.
In certain types of construction, in which the minimum spacing required cannot be achieved
by supporting pipes from main structural members, provision shall be made to support the
centre of the span. A typical method is shown in Figure 7.7.6.
TABLE 7.7.6
MAXIMUM SPACING OF PIPE SUPPORTS
Maximum spacing of brackets and clips (m)
Pipe size
Plastic pipe
Horizontal
Vertical
DN 20
1.50
4.00
0.70
1.40
DN 22
0.70
1.40
DN 25
2.00
4.00
0.75
1.50
DN 32
2.50
5.00
0.85
1.70
DN 40
2.50
5.00
0.90
1.80
DN 50
3.00
5.00
1.05
2.10
DN 63
1.10
2.20
DN 65
3.00
5.00
1.20
2.40
DN 75
1.30
2.60
DN 80
4.00
5.00
1.35
2.70
DN 90
4.00
5.00
1.40
2.80
DN 100
4.00
5.00
1.50
3.00
DN 110
1.50
3.00
DN 125
4.00
6.00
1.70
3.40
DN 140
1.70
3.40
DN 150
4.00
6.00
2.00
4.00
Pipe supports shall be located such that they do not obstruct the distribution of water from
any sprinkler.
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A support shall be located not further than 1 m from any change of direction in the piping,
e.g., bend or elbow.
7.7.7.3 Range pipes
Range pipes exceeding 500 mm in length shall have at least one support. The first support
on any range pipe shall be not more than 2 m from the distribution pipe or riser (drop). The
distance from the last support to the end of a range pipe shall not exceed the following:
(a) For pipes DN 25 ............................................................................................ 1.0 m.
(b) For pipes >DN 25 ............................................................................................ 1.5 m.
7.7.7.4 Distribution pipes
The first support on any distribution pipe shall be not more than 2 m from the connection to
the main distribution pipe. The distance from the last support to the end of any distribution
pipe shall not exceed 1 m.
7.7.7.5 Main distribution pipes
The distance from the last support to the end of any horizontal main distribution pipe shall
not exceed 1 m.
7.7.7.6 Risers
Main vertical pipes rising (or dropping) from the installation valves, or for linking the
piping between levels, shall be supported directly from the structure or by supports on
horizontal branch piping from the riser not more than 300 mm from the riser.
7.7.8 Verification of design
7.7.8.1 General
Supports that comply with Clause 7.7.2 shall be deemed to meet the requirements for
sprinkler piping support systems, see Figures 7.7.8.1(A), 7.7.8.1(B) and 7.7.8.1(C).
NOTE: Where the support system is designed in accordance with Clause 7.7.2, details of the
proposed pipe supports may be required by the regulatory authority. Where details submitted are
considered to be inadequate, the regulatory authority may require a verification test, as specified in
Clause 7.7.8.2.
Where a verification test is required, pipe supports shall be capable of withstanding the
following test without failure.
The appropriate load from Table 7.7.8.2 shall be applied without shock for a period not less
than 30 s.
NOTE: This test is not intended for application in situ. If applied in situ, appropriate safety
precautions should be taken.
TABLE 7.7.8.2
VERIFICATION TEST LOADS
Pipe size
DN 50
340
> DN 50
DN 65
385
> DN 65
DN 80
475
> DN 80 DN 100
680
1200
> DN 150
1750
90
7.8 INSTALLATIONGENERAL
7.8.1 Pipe and pipe fitting specifications
7.8.1.1 General
All pipes and pipe fittings in an installation shall be new and shall comply with the relevant
Standards listed in Clause 1.5.
7.8.1.2 Pipes above ground
Pipes below ground shall comply with the relevant Standards listed in Clause 1.5, subject to
the approval of the water supply authority, and the following:
(a) Clause 7.9 of this Standard for steel.
(b) Clause 7.10 of this Standard for light wall steel.
(c) Clause 7.11 of this Standard for copper.
(d) Clause 7.12 of this Standard for plastic.
7.8.1.4 Protection of underground pipes
Underground pipes shall be protected against corrosion, where necessary, and shall not be
laid in positions where they could be damaged by vehicular traffic.
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Welding of piping shall comply with the provisions set out in AS 4041.
7.8.3 Hydrostatic pressure test
All new installations, trunk mains and water supply connections shall be capable of
withstanding, for a period of 2 h without loss of pressure, a hydrostatic test pressure of
1.4 MPa, or 400 kPa in excess of the maximum static working pressure, whichever is the
greater.
7.8.4 Pneumatic leak test
Sprinkler piping shall not be embedded in concrete floors or any other surfacing material of
a building.
NOTE: Embedding of piping is prohibited for two principal reasons
(a) problems of corrosion; and
(b) difficulties in making subsequent alterations to the pipe system.
Black steel sprinkler piping shall be painted with at least one coat of etch prime. Piping
installed in an aggressive environment shall be further protected against corrosion.
7.8.7 Protection of piping against mechanical damage
Where the water supplies include an automatic pump drawing from a source of non-potable
water such as a canal, river or lake, flushing connections shall be provided at the
extremities of distribution pipes.
7.8.9 Prohibited use of piping
7.8.9.1 Electrical earth
Sprinkler pipes shall not be used as a means of earthing an electrical installation or as a link
in an earth circuit.
7.8.9.2 Hoisting
Sprinkler pipes shall not be used for hoisting or supporting other services nor shall articles
be hung from them.
7.8.10 Pipe sizes
Pipe size shall be determined by full hydraulic calculation, in accordance with the
requirements for the class of hazard.
7.8.11 Spacing of brackets and clips
All pipes and pipe fittings in an installation shall be new and shall comply with the relevant
Standards listed in Clause 7.1.
7.9.2 Pipes
7.9.2.1 Pipes above ground
Pipes above ground shall be at least equivalent to medium steel tube complying with the
requirements of
(a) AS 1074; or
(b) AS 1579; or.
(c) AS 4041.
7.9.2.2 Pipes below ground
Pipes below ground shall comply with the relevant Standards listed in Clause 1.5, subject to
the approval of the water supply authority.
Cast iron pipes and fittings complying with AS 1724 and AS 2544 shall be coated and
cement mortar lined in accordance with AS 1281 or AS 1516.
Pipes complying with AS 1074 and AS 1579 shall be subject to a minimum wall thickness
of 5.3 mm.
7.9.3 Pipe jointing
7.9.3.1 Welded joints
Only pipes of DN 50 or greater may be jointed by welding unless the joints are fabricated,
welded and inspected in the workshop.
On-site welding operations shall be avoided as far as possible, but if unavoidable they shall
be carried out in accordance with AS 1674.
NOTE: Where galvanized pipe on the supply side of the main control assembly is welded, the water
supply authority may require the galvanized finish to be made good.
94
All pipes and pipe fittings in an installation shall be new and shall comply with the relevant
Standards listed in Clause 1.5 and with the requirements and limitations stipulated in the
listing criteria.
7.10.2 Pipes
7.10.2.1 Above ground
Pipes with a nominal wall thickness of less than 2.0 mm may only be installed above
ground and downstream of any main control or isolating valve.
Where light wall pipes installed above ground are required by other Standards or water
authorities, or are in corrosive environments, they shall be galvanized and the galvanizing
shall comply with the requirements of AS 1650.
7.10.2.2 Below ground
All light wall pipe installed below ground shall be hot-dip galvanized in accordance with
the requirements of AS 4118.2.1.
All fittings for installation below ground shall be hot-dip galvanized in accordance with the
requirements of AS 1650.
Where pipes and pipe fittings are installed below ground and additional protection is
required, it shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of AS 4118.2.1.
7.10.3 Pipe jointing
7.10.3.1 Welded joints
The fabrication of light wall steel pipes shall be limited by the requirements of Section 3 of
AS 4118.2.1.
7.10.3.2 Fittings and other pipe jointing methods
Only fittings and mechanical pipe jointing methods complying with the requirements of
AS 4118.2.1 shall be used.
7.10.3.3 Fittings
Fittings shall be dimensionally compatible with the pipe and shall only be used with a pipe
for which they were specifically designed, approved and listed.
7.11 INSTALLATIONCOPPER PIPING
7.11.1 General
All pipes and pipe fittings in an installation shall be new and shall comply with the relevant
Standards listed in Clause 1.5.
Copper piping shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of relevant sections of
AS/NZS 3500.1 and shall only be used in wet fire sprinkler systems (see Clause 1.4.30) for
hazard classifications up to Ordinary Hazard 3 special.
7.11.2 Pipes
7.11.2.1 Pipes above ground
Copper piping above ground shall be at least equivalent to Type B tube complying with
the requirements of AS 1432.
Copper pipes below ground shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of
AS/NZS 3500.1 for the installation of water supplies.
7.11.3 Pipe jointing
7.11.3.1 Brazing
Joints in copper piping, or between copper piping and fittings, shall be silver brazed, except
that solder may be used when the fitting is designed for that purpose. Silver brazing filler
materials shall conform to Types B2, B3 or B4 of AS 1167. Solder shall be either tinantimony or tin-silver to AS 1834.
On-site brazing or soft soldering shall be carried out in accordance with AS 1674.
NOTE: Where dissimilar metals are joined, care should be taken to insulate copper piping to prevent
bimetallic corrosion.
Where piping is concealed within ceiling or void spaces, the use of soft-soldered joints is
permitted for Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard 1 occupancies (see Appendix A).
7.11.3.3 Manipulated joints
The deformation of the piping to form the joint shall only be effected using the appropriate
tools.
Joints formed in this manner shall only be silver-brazed. Means shall be provided to prevent
the branch pipe from intruding into the bore of the main pipe while maintaining the joint
close contact.
7.11.3.4 Capillary fittings
Capillary fittings including solder and brazing materials shall be manufactured and used in
accordance with AS 3688.
7.11.3.5 Compression fittings
Compression fittings shall be manufactured using the dimensions and materials set out in
AS 3688.
7.11.4 Pipe bending
Copper piping may be bent, provided there are no kinks, ripples, distortions, reduction in
diameter or any noticeable deviation from round. The minimum radius of a bend shall be
6 pipe diameters for pipe sizes DN 50 and smaller and 5 pipe diameters for pipe sizes
DN 65 and larger.
7.12 INSTALLATIONPLASTIC PIPING
7.12.1 Pipe and pipe fitting specifications
7.12.1.1 General
This Clause specifies requirements for the use of plastic piping for wet fire sprinkler
systems. Use of plastic piping in fire sprinkler systems is limited to Light Hazard systems
and the mechanical, service and related storage areas of these occupancies that are defined
as Ordinary Hazard 1.
All pipes and pipe fittings in an installation shall be new and shall comply with the
requirements of AS 4118.2.1 and the requirements and limitations of any listing criteria.
Only straight lengths of pipe are approved for installation according to this Standard. The
use of coiled pipe is not approved.
96
All fittings designed to take a male metal thread shall incorporate a female metal thread
insert and a metal reinforcing ring to provide a high-strength, heavy duty fitting.
7.12.1.2 Pipe and pipe fittings above ground
Plastic pipes and pipe fittings will be fully enclosed by walls, ceiling or other closed
architectural structures of the building to be protected.
The only permitted exposure to the room being protected is at the connection to the
sprinkler and only if the configuration has been shown to satisfactorily pass the test in
AS 4118.2.1.
Where plastic pipe is used in non-protected areas of buildings, no pipe or fitting shall
project above ground or pass through any element of the building structure unless it is
adequately protected from structural damage (see also Clauses 7.3, 7.8.7 and 7.12.1.4).
7.12.1.3 Pipes and pipe fittings below ground
Pipes and pipe fittings laid underground shall comply with the relevant Standards listed in
Clause 1.5 subject to the approval of the water supply authority.
Approved plastic pipes and pipe fittings shall be laid in accordance with the requirements of
AS/NZS 3500.1 for water supply installation.
7.12.1.4 Installation restrictions
Plastic pipes and pipe fittings shall not be installed within 300mm of heat-producing
sources such as light fixtures, ballasts, heat ducts and steam pipes, unless the pipe is rated
for such heat exposures.
Plastic pipes and pipe fittings shall not be installed in areas where the maximum ambient
temperature exceeds 50 C.
Where thermal expansion or contraction forces are expected due to significant variations in
temperature, these forces shall be allowed for by the installation of sufficient expansion
joints, or by other suitable methods as recommended by the manufacturer.
NOTE:Gypsum wallboard may be an acceptable concealment material.
Unless specified by the manufacturers as being suitable for continuous outdoor exposure,
plastic pipes shall be stored under cover.
7.12.2 Pipe and fittingsJointing
7.12.2.1 Jointing
Pipework may be joined by ei ther; solvent cementing, screwed or mechanical joints, crimp
type fittings or by heat fusion. If screwed joints are used then the presence of the screw
thread must not reduce the effective wall thickness below that of the pipe.
7.12.2.2 Threaded connections
SECTI O N
VALVES AND
EQUIPMENT
ANCIL LARY
Each installation shall be provided with a control assembly which is located in a sprinkler
valve enclosure in accordance with BCA Specification E1.5, and comprising the following:
(a) A main stop valve (see Clause 8.2.2).
(b) A valve, comprising either
(i)
(ii)
a composite alarm valve suitable for either wet or dry systems (see Clause 8.10.3).
(c) A water motor alarm, with lock-open alarm cock (see Clauses 8.13.3, 8.13.7, 8.13.8
and 3.4).
(d) Where facilities are available, alarm signalling equipment (ASE) with locked-open
alarm cock (see Clause 3.3).
(e) A main drain valve and a test valve (see Clauses 7.5.1 and 8.13.8).
(f)
(g) Installation and water supply pressure gauges (see Clause 8.15).
(h) A plan of the protected building(s) and property, that is, a block plan (see Clause 8.3).
(i)
(j)
A notice identifying the installation and the area served by the installation.
Where multiple buildings exist on a site, a designated building entry point (DBEP) shall be
identified for each sprinkler-protected building. It shall be indicated by a strobe, activated
by alarm valve operation and located on the outside of the building, visible at the
designated site entry point (DSEP). The power supply to the strobe shall be taken from the
buildings fire indicator panel.
NOTES:
1 In the absence of a fire indicator panel, the power supply may be taken from the alarm
signalling equipment/brigade transmitter.
2 At least one designated site entry point (DSEP) should be nominated where multiple buildings
are monitored on a site, unless each building is individually identified at the fire dispatch
centre.
All stop valves shall be of the self-indicating type (except those fitted by the water supply
authorities on the branches from a town main) shall comply with the requirements of
AS 4118.1.6.
98
All valves on the water supply side of the sprinkler alarm valves shall be subject to the
requirements of the water supply authority.
8.2.2 Main stop valves
Water supplies to each sprinkler installation shall pass through a main stop valve. Before
passing through the main stop valves, water supplies shall be combined. The main stop
valve shall be secured open by a padlocked or riveted strap and shall be adequately
protected from the effect of frost.
NOTE: Provision should be made for closure of the main stop valve to give a visible and audible
alarm at a place under constant surveillance
All stop valves controlling water supplies shall have a unique identification and be clearly
shown on the block plan (see Clause 8.3(b)) and be secured open by a padlocked chain
(except those under control of the water supply authority). In the case of elevated private
reservoirs and gravity tanks, the stop valve shall be fixed close to the non-return valve and
on the reservoir or tank side thereof.
8.2.4 Subsidiary stop valves
Stop valves controlling the flow of water to any sprinkler shall not be fitted downstream of
the alarm valve except in the following circumstances
(a) where monitored in accordance with Clause 3.3; or
(b) where hoods over drying ends of a papermaking machine apply, to enable cylinders to
be changed; or
(c) where allowance is made for the removal of not more than two sprinklers to facilitate
the use of an access hatch; or
(d) where controlling groups of external sprinklers.
NOTE: The valve is not required to be monitored
A plan of the protected building(s) (block plan) (see Figure 8.3) with the position of the
main stop valves clearly indicated shall be placed adjacent to each set or group of
installation control assemblies where it can be readily seen. The block plan shall be in the
form of a permanent diagram, that is water-resistant and fade-resistant, and shall include
(a) the layout of the protected buildings or areas and adjacent streets;
(b) a diagram of water supplies including
(i)
(ii)
(iii) connections for non-industrial purposes and capacity and locations of storage
tanks;
(c) the location of control assemblies, subsidiary stop valves, remote test valves, tail-end
air valves, anti-freeze devices, drains, air release valves, orifice plates, external
sprinklers and any unusual features of the system;
(d) the name of the installer;
(e) the location of all pumps;
(f)
the year of installation of the system and of any major extension thereto;
(h) identification of the floor area protected by each sprinkler installation control
assembly.
100
SPRINKLER
STOP VALVE
INSIDE
NOTE: The words SPRINKLER STOP VALVE should be in letters at least 35 mm high, the word
INSIDE in letters at least 25 mm high and the letters set in white on a black background.
The following instructions together with an appropriate valve diagram shall be permanently
displayed at the control assembly:
EMERGENCY INSTRUCTIONS
1
REMAIN AT VALVES.
IF FIRE RE-OCCURS
(A)
(B)
NOTE: The name and contact number of the maintenance contractor should be inserted.
A pressure gauge schedule, expressed in kilopascals, see Figure 8.6, shall be located
adjacent to each group of installation control assemblies. It shall be in the form of a
permanent chart that is water-resistant and fade-resistant, and shall include the following:
(a) Minimum and maximum standing installation pressure for each installation.
(b) Minimum and maximum standing below-stop-valve pressure(s) (combined main).
(c) Minimum and maximum standing primary water supply pressure.
(d) If applicable, minimum and maximum standing secondary water supply pressure;
(e) If applicable pressure tank
(i)
(ii)
If applicable, trunk main pressure maintenance (jockey) pump cut-in and cut-out
pressures.
(j)
upstream pressure;
(ii)
Items
Normal
Minimum
Maximum
Installation 1
850
750
850
Installation 2
850
750
850
850
750
850
500
300
600
500
300
600
900
700
1000
600
600
600
700
600
1000
700
600
800
Cut-in pressure
kPa
Cut-out pressure
kPa
600
700
700
800
Electric pump
550
Diesel pump
500
Opening kPa
Closing kPa
750
700
1000
950
Pumps
102
A system interface diagram illustrating interconnections between the sprinkler system and
other fire safety features shall be located adjacent to the installation control assembly(ies).
A system interface diagram is shown in Figure 8.7.
Gaseous systems
Aerosol systems
Hydrants
Hose reels
Damper closure
Fire pump
HVAC shutdown
Smoke curtains
Detection systems
Alarm monitoring
Elevator override
Fuel isolation
Roof vents
Plant shutdown
Door releases
Sprinkler systems
System
Stair pressurization
Function
All stop, drain and test valves, and alarm cocks shall be permanently identified to show
their function and normal operating position.
8.9 NON-RETURN (BACK-PRESSURE) VALVES
Where there is more than one water supply to an installation, a non-return valve shall be
fitted in each water supply pipe and a test cock shall be provided between the non-return
valve and the supply control valve in accordance with the requirements of the water supply
authority. Non-return valves shall be readily accessible for testing and maintenance.
All valves on the water supply side of the sprinkler alarm valves shall be subject to the
requirements of the water supply authority.
Where the fitting of a non-return valve below ground is unavoidable, the position of the
valve shall be indicated and an inspection chamber shall be provided.
Where an elevated private reservoir or gravity tank forms one of the supplies, the
non-return valve on the supply pipe shall be not less than 5 m below the base of the
reservoir or tank.
All non-return valves shall comply with the requirements of AS 4118.1.6.
Alarm valves (wet) shall comply with the requirements of AS 4118.1.2. They shall be fixed
on the main supply pipe immediately above the main stop valve and before any connection
is taken off to supply any part of the installation.
8.10.2 Dry
Alarm valves (dry) shall comply with the requirements of AS 4118.1.7. They shall be fixed
on the main supply pipe immediately above the main stop valve and the alarm valve (wet)
in installations on the alternate wet and dry system not employing a composite alarm valve
as specified in Clause 8.10.3 and before any connection is taken off to supply any part of
the installation.
In dry systems maintained permanently under air pressure, the water motor alarm shall be
connected to the atmospheric chamber or the alarm motor auxiliary valve of the alarm
valves (dry).
NOTE: In order to facilitate the carrying out of flow tests when an installation is under air pressure,
an additional drain valve, of a size appropriate to the hazard class, may be fitted. Alternatively, a
stop valve may be installed immediately above the alarm valve (dry) (see Clause 8.2.4(a)).
Composite alarm valves shall comply with the requirements of AS 4118.1.7 and shall be
fitted on the main supply pipe and immediately above the main stop valve before any
connection is taken off to supply any part of the installation.
NOTE: Composite alarm valves are dual purpose, that is, they may be used in either wet or dry
systems.
Accelerators are devices that are designed to accelerate the operation of an alarm valve
(dry) (see Clause 2.1.2.4). They shall be located as close as possible to the alarm valve
(dry) or composite alarm valve. The connection to the device from the system shall be so
located that the restriction orifice and other opening parts are not likely to become flooded
with priming water or back drainage under normal conditions.
8.10.5 Identification of control assemblies and water motor alarms
In buildings containing more than one installation, each control assembly and alarm
signalling equipment (ASE) (see Clause 3.2) shall have number(s) indicated thereon and the
relevant water motor alarm (see Clause 3.3) shall bear the same number(s) in bold figures.
8.11 PRESSURE-REDUCING VALVE STATIONS
104
Each installation shall be so arranged that the installed alarm devices (see Clauses 3.2
and 3.3) shall respond within 3 min of opening the test valve with a 15 mm bore referred to
in Clause 8.13.7 and within 6 min of opening the remote test valve referred to in
Clause 8.14.
8.13.2 Prevention of false alarms
Where water supplies include a town main known to have widely fluctuating pressure
characteristics such that the normal installation pressure is exceeded, causing intermittent
operation of the alarm valve, false alarms shall be prevented by one of the following means:
(a) Installation of a listed retarding device.
(b) Maintenance of the installation pressure above the maximum anticipated mains
pressure. This may be accomplished in one of three ways, as follows:
(i)
(ii)
(iii) Motorized jacking pump, automatically started and stopped, fitted with a
normally closed stop valve and an orifice not exceeding 3 mm diameter on the
discharge side to restrict the flow. An unrestricted bypass may be fitted around
the orifice to facilitate the initial elevation of the installation pressure to the
required set level (see Figure 8.13.2).
NOTE: The restricting orifice is required to ensure that the automatic jacking pump
does not satisfy the flow demand of a single operating sprinkler, thus bypassing the
alarm valve. It will also restrict any potential damage caused by an undetected leak in
the installation.
Local water motor alarms shall comply with the requirements of AS 4118.1.3.
NOTE: Where an alarm bell is required to be installed in a high-level valve room, a pressure switch
and electronic bell may be installed in lieu.
Water motor alarms shall be located not higher than 6 m above the control assembly (ies).
8.13.3.3 Piping finish and size
Dry, pre-action and all systems in which the water motor alarm piping could be subject to
freezing shall have such piping arranged to drain through a fitting having an orifice not
larger than 3 mm diameter. The orifice plate (which may be integral with the fitting) shall
be either stainless steel or a suitable non-ferrous material such that the hole will not become
blocked by products of corrosion.
106
Except for an automatic pressure maintenance jacking pump complying with Clause 8.13.2,
or a water supply shunt apparatus installed for the purpose of continuous main stop valve
supervision, no connection between the water supply piping and water motor alarm shall
directly bypass the alarm valve.
8.13.4 Fire alarm signal
Fire alarms (see Clause 3.2) connected either directly to a fire service or via a fire alarm
monitoring service shall be initiated by
(a) a flow of water from the alarm valve through a water motor device;
(b) a flow of water from the valve causing actuation of a pressure switch; or
(c) a fall in pressure in the system piping above the alarm valve.
Where a fire alarm pressure switch is located on the water motor alarm line, the lock-open
valve controlling the water motor alarm shall be positioned on the water motor alarm side
of the pressure switch connection. Where an installation is on the dry system, means shall
be employed to ensure that pressure operation of the switch cannot be prevented either in
the event of a fire or during testing of the water motor alarm.
NOTE: Auxiliary alarms may take the form of electric flow or pressure switches. They should be
incorporated in the system piping above the alarm valve to indicate at a central location.
System interface alarm signals (see Clause 3.2) to other building fire safety systems, such
as the building occupant warning system, requiring a fire mode response to a sprinkler
system operation shall be initiated by
(a) a flow of water from the alarm valve through a water motor device;
(b) a flow of water from the valve causing actuation of a pressure switch;
(c) a fall in pressure in the system piping above the alarm valve; or
(d) a flow of water through a flow switch.
8.13.6 Lock-open valve
The pipe feeding hydraulically operated alarms shall be fitted with a lock-open valve.
8.13.7 Testing of alarm devices
Alarm devices shall be tested through a 15 mm test valve located downstream of the alarm
device simulating the operation of a sprinkler. Installations on the alternate wet and dry
system using both wet and dry alarm valves shall have testing valves fixed both above the
dry alarm valve (for use when the installation is under water pressure) and between the wet
and dry alarm valves (for use when the installation is under air pressure).
NOTE: The test procedures are set out in AS 1851.
For the purpose of commissioning and periodic testing, a remote test valve shall be
provided on each installation (see Figure 8.14).
The remote test valve piping shall not be less than DN 25 and shall be taken from the end of
a range pipe in the most remote group of sprinklers on the installation.
Where the most remote group of sprinklers is not the highest in the installation, an
additional remote test valve shall be connected to the range pipe at the highest level.
The test pipe shall terminate in a smooth bore, corrosion-resistant orifice giving a flow
equivalent to the smallest orifice sprinkler representative of the installation.
The remote test valve shall be readily accessible, locked shut, and shall be labelled as
follows:
SPRINKLER REMOTE TEST VALVETO BE LOCKED SHUT
Pressure gauges shall comply with the requirements of AS 1349 and shall have scales with
graduations in accordance with Table 8.15.
Means shall be provided to enable each pressure gauge to be readily removed without
interruption to installation water supplies.
Gauges to monitor pressures shall be installed in the system at the following locations:
(a) Immediately above the alarm valve.
(b) Adjacent to the main stop valve, connected to indicate the pressure of each water
supply. The connection for such gauges shall be on the supply side of the non-return
valve nearest the supply.
NOTE: For multiple installation systems, each subsequent main stop valve, or group of main stop
valves, may be fitted with a gauge indicating trunk main pressure only.
108
TABLE 8.15
GRADUATION OF PRESSURE GAUGES
Maximum scale
reading
Maximum graduation
interval
MPa
kPa
1.0
1.6
>1.6
20
50
100
SECTI O N
LIGHT HAZARD
SYSTE M S
CLASS
9.1 GENERAL
This Section specifies the requirements for the design of standard sprinkler system
protection for a Light Hazard class sprinkler system .
9.2 DESIGN DATA
Light Hazard systems shall be fully hydraulically designed to provide a flow of at least
48 L/min from each sprinkler within the design area (see Clause 1.3.8). The design area
shall consist of each group of six sprinklers in all parts of the building regardless of the area
covered by individual sprinklers.
Each array of sprinklers shall be selected to form, as near as possible, a square with the
longer side positioned such that it imposes the greatest hydraulic demand. Except as varied
by this Clause, hydraulic calculation methods shall conform to the requirements of
Section 12.
9.3 WATER SUPPLY
9.3.1 Flow and pressure requirements
The water supply shall be capable of providing the minimum flow and pressure
requirements of the system as determined by the hydraulic calculation methods described in
Clause 9.2.
Where pumps are provided, they shall be capable of operating at the maximum flow rate of
the system ( Q max.) see Clause 12.9.2.
NOTE: Where the flow requirements in a multistorey building at point of inter section (Q max.)
exceed 150% of the hydraulically most favourable system flow, consideration should be given to
using pump suction tanks in lieu of town mains supply (see Clause 4.2.2.4).
The effective water storage capacity of a reservoir or pump suction tank dedicated as a
sprinkler system supply shall comply with BCA Specification E1.5.
The storage capacity of a reservoir or pump suction tank that is the sole water source of a
single water supply system may be reduced by up to two thirds, for buildings up to 25 m in
effective height; subject to the provision of an automatic inflow to the reservoir or pump
suction tank which is sufficient for the pump to operate at the maximum flow rate (see
Clause 12.9.2) for not less than 60 min.
The source and reliability of the automatic inflow shall conform to the requirements of
Clause 4.1 and Clause 4.3.2.
The storage capacity of a reservoir or pump suction tank, which is part of a dual water
supply system, may be reduced by one third without the provision of the automatic inflow
to compensate for the reduced tank capacity.
C9.3.2 A dual water supply consisting of reservoirs or pump suction tanks provides an
increased level of reliability and continuity of supply compared to a single supply. The
total capacity of the dual supply provides, in normal operation, 4/3 of the required
storage capacity albeit there will be a 1/3 deficit in the required storage capacity for
the duration of any period during which one reservoir or tank may be out of service.
For purposes of tank refilling, the requirements of Clause 4.3.4 shall apply.
110
The water requirement of any hydrant or other fire protection system connected to the
sprinkler system water supply shall be added to the water storage capacity.
9.3.4 Pump suction tanks
Pumpsets shall comply with the requirements of Clauses 4.3.8 and 4.3.9.
The duty flow and pressure of the pump(s) shall be not less than the flow and pressure
calculated in accordance with Clause 9.3.1.
The minimum combined output of the pump and its supply shall satisfy the requirements of
all portions of the system as required by Clause 4.3.8.4 and Figure 4.3.8.4(A) and (B).
9.3.7 Proving of water supplies
Water supplies shall be proved to meet the calculated requirements of the installed system.
Proving of water supplies shall be in accordance with the requirements of Clause 4.4.
9.4 SPRINKLERS
9.4.1 Size and type
Except for the reduced coverage required by Clause 9.4.3, the maximum area covered by
sprinklers shall be as follows:
(a) Sidewall sprinklers ............................................................17 m2 (see also Section 5).
(b) Other sprinklers .................................................................21 m2 (see also Section 5).
The area covered by each sprinkler shall be defined by lines drawn midway between
adjacent sprinklers at right angles to the line joining the sprinklers and by the boundary of
the area covered (see Figure 12.2).
9.4.3 Reduced coverage
In attics, basements, boiler rooms, kitchens, laundries, storage areas, workrooms, electronic
data processing rooms, airconditioning and building services plant rooms, restaurants and
cafes, the maximum area coverage shall be 12 m2 per sprinkler. The maximum distance
between sprinklers shall be 4.2 m and the maximum distance from walls and partitions shall
be 2.1 m. In the case of compartments containing enclosed rolling storage cabinets, the
maximum area coverage shall be 9 m2 per sprinkler (see Clause 5.5.7).
The maximum distance between sprinklers on range pipes and between adjacent rows shall
be as follows:
(a) Sidewall sprinklers along walls ..........................................4.6 m (see also Section 5).
(b) Other sprinklers ................................................................................................4.8 m.
The maximum distance from walls and partitions shall be 2.4 m (see also Clause 5.3.2 and
Clause 5.4).
9.4.5 Special sprinklers
All system piping shall conform to the requirements of AS 4118.2.1 and Section 7.
9.5.2 Pipe sizes
Full hydraulic calculations shall be carried out in accordance with the requirements of
Clause 9.2 and shall be documented in accordance with the requirements of Section 12.
9.5.4 Concealed spaces
Where concealed spaces are protected in accordance with Clause 5.6, pipe sizes to the
concealed space sprinklers shall be determined by full hydraulic calculation methods.
Separate calculations shall be carried out for sprinklers above and below the ceiling.
Where sprinklers above and below a ceiling share common range or distribution pipes, the
flow from sprinklers above and below the ceiling need not be taken cumulatively in
determining pipe size (see also Clause 5.6.3). Separate calculations shall be carried out for
sprinklers above and below the ceiling. The water supply requirements of Clause 9.3 shall
satisfy the greater of the calculated hydraulic demands.
112
SECTI O N
10
OR DINARY HAZARD
SYSTE M S
CLASS
10.1 GENERAL
This Section specifies the requirements for the design of standard sprinkler system
protection for an Ordinary Hazard class sprinkler system
10.2 DESIGN DATA
10.2.1 General
Ordinary Hazard systems shall be fully hydraulically designed to provide a flow of at least
60 L/min from each sprinkler within the design area (see Clause 1.3.8). The design area
shall consist of each group of sprinklers in all parts of the building regardless of the area
covered by individual sprinklers. The number of sprinklers in each design area shall be as
specified in Clause 10.2.2 or Table 10.2.3, as appropriate.
10.2.2 Sprinklers under flat roofs and ceilings
The required number of sprinklers in the most unfavourable arrays shall be as follows:
(a) Ordinary Hazard 1 (OH1) ........................................................................................ 6.
(b) Ordinary Hazard 2 (OH2) ...................................................................................... 12.
(c) Ordinary Hazard 3 (OH3) ...................................................................................... 18.
(d) Ordinary Hazard 3 Special (OH3 Special) .............................................................. 30.
Each array of sprinklers shall be selected to form, as near as possible, a square, but with the
longer side positioned such that it imposes the greatest hydraulic demand. The required
number of sprinklers shall, where necessary to achieve the desired shape, include those
sprinklers on both sides of a distribution pipe. Except as varied by this Clause, hydraulic
calculation methods shall conform to the requirements of Section 12.
Where the area under consideration is separated from the remainder of the building by fireresisting walls or drafts curtains and contains less than the required number of sprinklers,
the reduced number of sprinklers shall be used in the hydraulic calculations.
10.2.3 Sprinklers under sloping roofs and in bays
Where sprinklers are installed under roofs or ceilings having a slope greater than 6, or in
bays not more than 9 m wide formed by full height walls, smoke curtains or beams more
than 1 m deep (regardless of intermediate beams) or a combination thereof, the number of
sprinklers in the respective arrays and the configuration of the arrays shall be as indicated
in Table 10.2.3.
TABLE 10.2.3
SPRINKLER ARRAYS UNDER SLOPING ROOFS AND IN BAYS
Number of sprinklers
Hazard class
In array
OH1
OH2
15
OH3
24
OH3 Special
36
Orientation of array
The water supply shall be capable of providing the minimum flow and pressure
requirements of the system as determined by the hydraulic calculation methods described in
Clause 10.2.
Where pumps are provided, they shall be capable of operating at the maximum flow rate of
the system ( Q max.) (see Clause 12.9.2).
NOTE: Where the flow requirements in a multistorey building at point of intersection (Q max. ) exceed
150% of the hydraulically most favourable system flow, consideration should be given to using
pump suction tanks in lieu of town mains supply
The effective water storage capacity of a reservoir or pump suction tank dedicated as a
sprinkler system supply shall comply with BCA Specification E1.5.
The storage capacity of a reservoir or pump suction tank that is the sole water source of a
single water supply system may be reduced by up to two thirds for buildings up to 25 m in
effective height, subject to the provision of an automatic inflow to the reservoir or pump
suction tank which is sufficient for the pump to operate at the maximum flow rate (see
Clause 12.9.2) for not less than 60 min.
The source and reliability of the automatic inflow shall conform to the requirements of
Clause 4.1 and Clause 4.3.2.
The storage capacity of a reservoir or pump suction tank, which is part of a dual water
supply system, may be reduced by one third without the provision of the automatic inflow
to compensate for the reduced tank capacity.
C10.3.2 A dual water supply consisting of reservoirs or pump suction tanks provides
an increased level of reliability and continuity of supply compared to a single supply.
The total capacity of the dual supply provides, in normal operation, 4/3 of the required
storage capacity albeit there will be a 1/3 deficit in the required storage capacity for
the duration of any period during which one reservoir or tank may be out of service.
For purposes of tank refilling, the requirements of Clause 4.3.4 shall apply.
10.3.3 Additional storage capacity
The water requirement of any hydrant or other fire protection system connected to the
sprinkler system water supply shall be added to the water storage capacity.
10.3.4 Pump suction tanks
114
Pumpsets shall comply with the requirements of Clauses 4.3.8 and 4.3.9.
The duty flow and pressure of the pump(s) shall be not less than the flow and pressure
calculated in accordance with Clause 10.3.1.
The minimum combined output of the pump and its supply shall satisfy the requirements of
all portions of the system as required by Clause 4.3.8.4 and Figures 4.3.8.4(A) and (B).
10.3.7 Proving of water supplies
Water supplies shall be proved to meet the calculated requirements of the installed system.
Proving of water supplies shall be in accordance with the requirements of Clause 4.4.
10.4 SPRINKLERS
10.4.1 Size and type
Except for the reduced coverage required by Clause 10.4.3, the maximum area covered by
sprinklers shall be as follows:
(a) Sidewall sprinklers ............................................................. 9 m2 (see also Section 5).
(b) Other sprinklers ................................................................ 12 m2 (see also Section 5).
The area covered by each sprinkler shall be defined by lines drawn midway between
adjacent sprinklers at right angles to the line joining the sprinklers and by the boundary of
the area covered (see Figure 12.2).
10.4.3 Reduced coverage
In cold chambers using the air circulation method of refrigeration, provender and rice mills
(other than those using the pneumatic system of conveying), film and television production
studios, theatres and music halls (stage protection) and compartments containing enclosed
rolling storage cabinets (see Clause 5.5.7), the maximum area coverage shall be 9 m2 per
sprinkler. The maximum distance between sprinklers shall be 3 m and the maximum
distance from walls and partitions shall be 1.5 m.
10.4.4 Maximum spacing
The maximum distance between sprinklers on range pipes and between adjacent rows shall
be as follows:
(a) Sidewall sprinklers along the walls (see also Clause 5.5) ................................. 3.6 m.
(b) Other sprinklers
(i)
(ii)
(B)
10.4.5 Maximum distance from walls and partitions (see also Clause 5.3.2)
All system piping shall conform to the requirements of AS 4118.2.1 and Section 7.
10.5.2 Pipe sizes
Full hydraulic calculations shall be carried out in accordance with the requirements of
Clause 10.2 and shall be documented in accordance with the requirements of Section 12.
10.5.4 Concealed spaces
Where concealed spaces are protected in accordance with Clause 5.6, pipe sizes to the
concealed space sprinklers shall be determined by full hydraulic calculation methods.
Separate calculations shall be carried out for sprinklers above and below the ceiling.
Where sprinklers above and below a ceiling share common range or distribution pipes, the
flow from sprinklers above and below the ceiling shall not be taken cumulatively in
determining pipe sizes (see also Clause 5.6.3). The water supply requirements of
Clause 10.3 shall satisfy the greater of the calculated hydraulic demands.
116
SECTI O N
11
HIGH HAZARD
SYSTE M S
CLASS
(b)
(i)
(ii)
(i)
(ii)
The design density of discharge for high piled storage risks depends on the hazardous
nature of the stock and the height of storage. High hazard class systems are only required
when high piled storage exceeds the height specified in Table 11.1.3
Tables 11.1.3.2(A) and 11.1.3.2(B) establish the appropriate density of discharge and
assumed area of operation according to the category, method of storage and stack height
where roof or ceiling protection only is provided. Where storage fixtures are of solid or
shelved construction, the requirements of Clause 5.5.9.6 shall apply.
Where an alternate wet and dry system is installed at roof or ceiling level, the assumed area
of operation shall be increased by 25%.
The maximum storage heights of 7.6 m for Categories 1 and 2, 7.2 m for Category 3 and
4.4 m for Category 4 indicated in Table 11.1.3.2(A) are considered to be a limiting factor to
efficient sprinkler protection where sprinklers are provided at the ceiling or roof only.
The maximum storage heights of 6.8 m for Category 1, 6.0 m for Categories 2 and 3, and
4.4 m for Category 4 indicated in Table 11.1.3.2(B) are considered to be a limiting factor to
efficient sprinkler protection where sprinklers are provided at the ceiling or roof only.
Where storage in racking and post or box pallets is above these heights, intermediate level
protection shall be provided.
117
TABLE 11.1.2
Design density
mm/min
10.0
7.5
260
Zone protection (deluge system)
12.5
260
12.0
260
7.5
260
12.0
360
Firelighter manufacturers
Firework manufacturers
10.0
10.0
260 (Note 2)
Complete deluge protection
required for each building
12.0
7.5
12.0
260
260
260
12.0
260
7.5
12.0
260
260
(Note 2)
7.5
260 (Note 2)
10.0
10.0
260
260 (Note 2)
10.0
260
NOTES:
1
118
TABLE 11.1.3
MAXIMUM STORAGE HEIGHTS FOR USE OF
ORDINARY HAZARD SYSTEMS
Category of
storage as
per
Tables
11.1.3.2(A)
and (B)
Nonencapsulated
Encapsulated
Nonencapsulated
Encapsulated
4.0
3.0
3.5
2.7
3.0
2.2
2.6
2.0
2.1
1.6
1.7
1.3
1.2
0.9
1.2
0.9
TABLE 11.1.3.2(A)
DISCHARGE DENSITY AND ASSUMED AREA OF OPERATION FOR HIGHPILED STORAGE RISKS INVOLVING FREESTANDING STORAGE, BIN BOX
STORAGE OR BLOCK STACKING WHERE CEILING OR ROOF PROTECTION
ONLY IS PROVIDED
Discharge
density
Assumed area
of operation
mm/min
7.5
10.0
12.5
15.0
17.5
20.0
22.5
25.0
27.5
30.0
NOTES:
1
m2
Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
Category 4
260
5.3
6.5
7.6
4.1
5.0
5.9
6.7
7.6
2.9
3.5
4.1
4.7
5.2
1.6
2.0
2.3
2.7
3.0
300
5.7
6.3
6.7
7.2
3.3
3.6
3.8
4.1
4.4
Not applicable
The term storage includes the warehousing or the temporary depositing of goods or materials
while undergoing process.
Not applicable
119
TABLE 11.1.3.2(B)
DISCHARGE DENSITY AND ASSUMED AREA OF OPERATION FOR HIGHPILED STORAGE RISKS INVOLVING POST OR BOX PALLETS (IN
SINGLE OR DOUBLE ROWS) OR PALLETIZED RACK STORAGE
WHERE ROOF OR CEILING PROTECTION ONLY IS PROVIDED
Discharge
density
Assumed area
of operation
mm/min
7.5
10.0
12.5
15.0
17.5
20.0
25.0
30.0
m2
Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
Category 4
260
4.7
5.7
6.8
3.4
4.2
5.0
5.6
6.0
2.2
2.6
3.2
3.7
4.1
1.6
2.0
2.3
2.7
3.0
300
4.4
5.3
6.0
3.3
3.8
4.4
NOTES:
1
Not applicable
Not applicable
3
4
Rack storage with aisles less than 1.2 m in width is treated as multiple row racks (see
Clause 11.1.3.3).
Not applicable
Flow rates for intermediate level sprinkler protection shall be hydraulically calculated
as set out in Clause 11.2.2.5.
Where racking does not exceed 3.2 m in width, one row of sprinklers shall be located
centrally along the length of the rack. Where racking exceeds 3.2 m in width, but does
not exceed 6 m, two rows of sprinklers shall be provided. The design of protection for
racking exceeding 6 m in width shall be individually assessed. (See
Figure 11.1.3.4(a), (b) and (c) for maximum spacing, stagger spacing and maximum
area coverage per sprinkler.)
Whenever any rack or structural steelwork is likely to significantly interfere with
water discharge from sprinklers, additional sprinklers shall be provided and taken into
account in water flow calculations.
Each intermediate level sprinkler shall be fitted with a metal water shield not less
than 80 mm in diameter, located immediately above the sprinkler. For sprinklers
mounted upright, the shield shall not be attached directly to the sprinkler deflector.
Any bracket supporting the shield shall cause minimal obstruction to the water
distribution.
120
Provision shall be made for the protection of piping and sprinklers against mechanical
damage (see Clauses 6.9 and 7.4).
(b)
(ii)
(A)
Every alternate rack tier, but not exceeding 3.7 m from the floor to the
lowest level and between successive levels.
(B)
(C)
(D)
The horizontal spacing of sprinklers within tiers shall not exceed 2.8 m
(see Figure 11.1.3.4(a)).
(A)
Every alternate rack tier, but not exceeding 3.7 m from the floor to the
lowest level and between successive levels.
(B)
(C)
The horizontal spacing of sprinklers within tiers shall not exceed 1.4 m
(see Figure 11.1.3.4(b)).
(iii) Category 4 goods (or Categories 1, 2 and 3 goods mixed with Category 4
goods) Category 4 goods or Categories 1, 2 and 3 goods mixed with
Category 4 goods, shall be protected as follows:
(A)
At every tier, but not exceeding 2.3 m from the floor to the lowest level
and between successive levels.
(B)
(C)
(D)
The horizontal spacing of sprinklers within tiers shall not exceed 2.8 m
(see Figure 11.1.3.4(c)).
Provided that the roof or ceiling protection is not more than 3 m above the top
of the stored goods, the uppermost row of intermediate level sprinklers may be
omitted if this would otherwise be located at the top of the stored goods
(see Figure 11.1.3.4(a), (b), (c) and (d)).
(c)
The flow requirements of sprinklers within the racks shall be calculated on the
assumption of an operational pressure of 200 kPa at the hydraulically most
unfavourable sprinkler when
(i)
three sprinklers are operating at every sprinkler level for Categories 1, 2 and 3
goods;
(ii)
two sprinklers are operating at every sprinkler level for Category 4 goods;
(iii) where rack aisles exceed 2.4 m in width, at least one rack shall be assumed to
be involved;
121
(d)
(e)
(iv)
where rack aisles exceed 1.2 m and do not exceed 2.4 m, at least two racks shall
be assumed to be involved;
(v)
where racks are closer than 1.2 m (multiple row racks), at least three racks shall
be assumed to be involved; and
(vi)
in no case, need more than three rows of sprinklers, as seen in plan view, be
assumed to be simultaneously involved at each sprinkler level.
Design data for roof or ceiling sprinklers Where intermediate level sprinklers are
provided
(i)
the density of discharge for the roof or ceiling sprinklers shall be appropriate to
the height of storage above the highest level of intermediate level protection
which can be taken from Table 11.1.3.2(B) with a minimum density of
discharge of 7.5 mm/min; and
(ii)
(B)
The floor area controlled by a single installation of intermediate level sprinklers, shall
not exceed 4000 m2 of floor area occupied by the racks, including aisles.
General For barrel storage in racks in bonded stores, the provisions for high-piled
storage risks shall be modified in accordance with Items (b) to (d) below, as
appropriate.
(b)
Double rack storage with aisles and walkways (see Figure 11.1.3.6(A)). The
following modifications shall apply to double rack storage with aisles between and
having walkways at various levels:
(i)
Storage height not exceeding 9.7 m For storage heights not exceeding 9.7 m,
roof or ceiling protection only is acceptable. Table 11.1.3.6 shall be used to
obtain densities of discharge and assumed area of operation where storage
heights exceed 7.6 m.
(ii)
(i)
Storage height not exceeding 5 m For storage heights not exceeding 5 m, roof
or ceiling protection only is acceptable.
(ii)
122
(d)
(A)
(B)
Clearance below sprinklers Clearance below sprinklers at roof or ceiling level may
be reduced to 300 mm instead of the 500 mm clearance required by Clause 5.4.8.
11.1.3.5 Encapsulation
Where there is no danger of freezing, High Hazard systems shall be of the wet type. Where
there is danger of freezing, a pre-action type system or alternate wet and dry system may be
installed. If an alternate wet and dry system is installed at only ceiling or roof, the design
area of sprinkler operation shall be increased by 25%.
123
124
125
Staggered arrangement of intermediate sprinklers in double rack storage with aisles between, having
2
walkways at various levels: maximum area per sprinkler = 11 m
126
TABLE 11.1.3.6
DISCHARGE DENSITY AND ASSUMED AREA OF OPERATION AT CEILING
FOR BONDED STORES (SPIRITUOUS LIQUORS) RACK STORAGE
Category of
storage
Discharge density
required
mm/min
Height of storage
Not more than 5.3 m
Above 5.3 m but not more
Above 6.5 m but not more
Above 7.6 m but not more
Above 8.7 m but not more
than
than
than
than
6.5
7.6
8.7
9.7
m
m
m
m
7.5
10.5
12.5
15.0
17.5
Assumed area
of operation
m2
260
260
260
260
260
127
The pressure and flow for fully hydraulically calculated systems shall be determined by
calculation (see Section 12). Installation standing pressure shall not be less than 800 kPa.
For systems designed in accordance with Tables 11.4.2.2(A) to 11.4.2.2(C), the pressure
and flow shall comply with the following requirements:
(a)
The water supply shall provide the flow and the corresponding running pressure given
in Table 11.2.1 at the hydraulically most unfavourably situated design point in the
High Hazard portion of the premises commensurate with the required density of
discharge and the area of operation set out in Clause 11.1 for the particular occupancy
category.
(b)
Where the High Hazard portion comprises less than 48 sprinklers and the provisions
of Item (d) below do not apply, the required flow and running pressure given in
Table 11.2.1 shall be provided at the level of the highest sprinklers at the point of
entry to the sprinkler array.
(c)
Where the design area of operation is fed by more than one distribution pipe, the
running pressure at the level of the highest sprinklers at the design point shall be
either that given in Table 11.2.1 for the required density of discharge, or that
determined by hydraulic calculation. The flow rate for each distribution pipe shall be
determined on the pro-rata basis described in Item (h) below.
(d)
Where the area of the High Hazard portion of the risk is less than the area of
operation given in Table 11.1.3.6, 11.1.3.2(A) or 11.1.3.2(B), as appropriate, the flow
rate shown in Table 11.2.1 may be proportionately reduced (see Item (h) below), but
the running pressure at the level of the highest sprinklers at the design point shall be
that given in the tables for the required density of discharge.
(e)
Where the basic design area of operation for a given density of discharge is increased
due to circumstances described under Clauses 11.1.2 and 11.1.3, the flow rate shall be
proportionately increased (see Item (h) below) but the pressure at the design point
shall be maintained.
C11.2.1(e) For example, in a High Hazard system with design density of 12.5 mm/min
and 15 mm sprinklers, with piping conforming to Table 11.4.2.2(C) and spacing of one
per 9 m2 , if the flow rate was increased by 25% in accordance with Clause 11.1.3
(i.e. from 3800 L/min to 4750 L/min), the appropriate pressure requirement at the design
point would be 245 kPa (see Table 11.2.1).
(f)
Where the design area of operation is greater than the area of High Hazard protection,
and this area is adjacent to Ordinary Hazard protection, the total flow rate shall be
calculated on the basis of the rate of flow in the High Hazard portion being
proportional to its area as above (see Item (h) below), and the flow in the Ordinary
Hazard portion of the risk being equal to 5.0 times the balance of the area of
operation. The pressure at the level of the highest sprinklers in the High Hazard
portion of the risk at the design point shall be either that given in the tables for the
required density of discharge or that determined by hydraulic calculation.
(g)
The flow requirements specified in Items 3 and 4 of Table 11.2.1 apply only to pipe
ranges that are horizontal or at a slope not exceeding 5 to the horizontal. Where the
angle of 5 is exceeded, the flow requirements shall be increased by 5% for each
additional 5 of slope or part thereof, and there shall be a corresponding percentage
decrease in the permitted maximum period of inflow for suction tanks
(see Clause 11.2.2).
128
(h)
The increased or decreased flow rates referred to in Item (c), (d), (e) and (f) above
shall be determined on a pro rata basis according to the following equation:
Q2 = Q1
a2
a1
. . . 11.2
where
Q2 = flow rate required or, in circumstances described in Item (c), the flow rate
in each pipe , in litres per minute
Q1 = flow rate required as given in the tables, in litres per minute
(i)
a2
a1
= area of operation given in the tables for the discharge density required, in
square metres
The town main supply shall be fed from a source of at least 1 ML capacity plus the stored
capacity specified in Table 11.2.2.2. Terminal mains or branch dead ends mains of less
than 150 mm in diameter shall not be used.
11.2.2.2 Reservoirs and tanks other than pressure tanks
The effective water storage capacity of a reservoir or pump suction tank dedicated as a
sprinkler system supply shall comply with BCA Specification E1.5.
The storage capacity of a reservoir or pump suction tank that is the sole water source of a
single water supply system may be reduced by up to one third for buildings up to 25 m in
effective height, subject to the provision of an automatic inflow to the reservoir or pump
suction tank which is sufficient for the pump to operate at the maximum flow rate (see
Clause 12.9.2) for not less than 60 min.
The source and reliability of the automatic inflow shall conform to the requirements of
Clause 4.1 and Clause 4.3.2.
11.2.2.3 Supplies not reserved entirely for sprinklers
Any private reservoir which also provides water for industrial and domestic purposes shall
have a constant capacity not less than 1 ML plus the stored capacity given in
Table 11.2.2.2.
NOTE: Pressure and flow tests in connection with proving the supply should be carried out when
the demand for other services is at its peak.
129
TABLE 11.2.1
PRESSURE/FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR
HIGH HAZARD CLASS SYSTEMS
Density of
discharge
Flow rate
mm/min
L/min
2
3
3
4
300
050
800
500
180
270
380
240
365
520
180
315
475
675
225
390
600
2
3
3
4
300
050
800
550
130
200
280
180
275
385
135
235
360
510
175
300
460
650
2
3
3
4
4
6
7
8
8
9
300
050
800
550
850
400
200
000
800
650
70
110
160
215
280
350
435
525
620
95
150
215
290
380
480
590
715
70
125
195
280
380
500
630
775
90
160
245
355
480
630
795
2
3
3
4
4
6
7
8
8
9
300
050
800
550
850
400
200
000
800
650
95
125
165
205
255
305
360
90
125
170
225
285
350
420
495
115
165
225
295
370
455
550
650
95
145
210
280
370
470
575
690
130
Pressure tank supplies are not acceptable for High Hazard class systems.
11.2.2.5 Supplementary sprinklers
For storage risks coming under the High Hazard class, where supplementary sprinklers are
installed at intermediate levels within racking, the minimum volume of water available shall
be sufficient to supply for the required duration the maximum calculated simultaneous flow
for roof or ceiling sprinklers and intermediate level sprinklers for the hydraulically most
favourable area (see also Clauses 11.1.3.4, 11.1.3.5 and 11.4.2.6).
11.2.3 Pumps
A1
Pumps shall comply with the requirements of Clauses 4.10.2, 4.11, and AS 2941.
11.2.4 Proving of water supplies
Water supplies shall be proved in accordance with the requirements of Clause 4.15.
Except for sprinklers in storage racks (see Clause 11.1.3.4), the maximum area coverage per
sprinkler shall be 9 m2.
The area covered by each sprinkler shall be defined by lines drawn midway between
adjacent sprinklers at right angles to the line joining the sprinklers and by the boundary of
the area covered (see Figure 12.2).
11.3.2 Maximum distance between sprinklers on range pipes and between adjacent
rows of sprinklers
Except for sprinklers in storage racks (see Clause 11.1.3.4), the maximum distance between
sprinklers and adjacent rows shall be 3.7 m.
11.3.3 Maximum distance from walls and partitions
The distance of sprinklers from walls or partitions shall not exceed 2 m or half the design
spacing whichever is the lesser (see also Clause 5.4.2).
11.4 SYSTEM COMPONENTS
11.4.1 Sprinklers
11.4.1.1 Size and type
Sprinklers shall conform to the requirements of AS 4118.1.1, and shall have a nominal
orifice size of 15 mm, or 20 mm, and may be of conventional or spray type, except that
intermediate level sprinklers within storage racks shall have a nominal orifice size of
15 mm.
Where sprinklers are required for building column protection in accordance with
Clause 11.1.3.5, spray type sprinklers installed horizontally or side wall sprinklers installed
vertically shall be used, subject to a minimum orifice size of 10 mm.
11.4.1.2 Sprinkler temperatures
In systems, with in-rack sprinklers, protecting high piled storage, 141C temperature rated
sprinklers shall be used at the roof or ceiling, and 68C to 74C nominal temperature rated
sprinklers shall be installed within storage racks, and for column protection.
131
The appropriate sizing of piping for High Hazard systems depends on the following factors:
(a)
(b)
Spacing of sprinklers.
(c)
(d)
Where ranges are directly connected to the distribution pipe without risers (or drops) the
design point shall be taken as the last elbow, tee or branch downstream of which the
48-sprinkler array is located (see design point A in Figures 11.4.2.1(A) to 11.4.2.1(C)).
Where ranges are connected to the distribution pipe with risers (or drops), such risers
(or drops) shall be considered as distribution pipes, and the design point shall be moved
downstream to the point of connection of the riser (or drop) nearest the installation valves
in the 48-sprinkler array (see design point B in Figures 11.4.2.1(A) to 11.4.2.1(C)).
Where the number of sprinklers in a separate array is less than the number of sprinklers for
which the distribution pipes are hydraulically designed, the design point shall be taken as
the point of connection of the range nearest the installation valves in such separate array.
Where single sprinklers are connected to horizontal pipes by risers (or drops), such risers
shall be considered range pipes. Where such risers (or drops) exceed 300 mm in length, the
horizontal pipes to which they are connected shall be sized as distribution pipes.
For complex piping arrangements requiring the use of both armpieces and risers (or drops),
piping feeding such arrangements shall be sized as a combination of range and distribution
pipes in accordance with Tables 11.4.2.2(A) to 11.4.2.2(C).
11.4.2.3 Hydraulic calculation of distribution piping (partly pre-calculated systems)
The distribution and rise pipe from the installation valves to the various nominal terminal
points of the network, that is at each design point or at the point of entry to each sprinkler
array wherever fewer than 48 sprinklers are involved (see Clause 11.2), shall be calculated
hydraulically on the basis that, under the relevant flow conditions stated in Table 11.2.1, the
pressure drop in this individually calculated piping will not exceed the residual pressure
available from the water supply when allowance has been made for the pressure required at
132
the design point in Table 11.2.1 plus the static head loss due to the height of the highest
sprinkler in the High Hazard network above the installation valves.
Where the highest sprinkler of a High Hazard portion of the premises is not beyond the
design point, such portion requiring the higher static head shall have its own terminating
distribution pipe. The pressure loss in the distribution pipe to each section of the High
Hazard risk shall be adjusted to that required either by suitably sizing the distribution pipes
or by fitting an orifice plate in the feed main (see Clause 11.4.2.5) or by a combination of
these two methods. The losses given in Table 11.4.2.3 shall be used for these calculations.
11.4.2.4 Hydraulic balancing of systems with orifice plates
Where supplementary sprinklers are installed at intermediate levels within storage racking,
the piping shall be fully hydraulically calculated. In the sizing of the distribution piping, the
water flow required by the intermediate sprinklers shall be added to that required by the
roof or ceiling sprinklers and sprinklers protecting building columns (see Clauses 11.1.3.4
and 11.1.3.5).
Intermediate level protection within storage racks shall be controlled by a separate control
assembly. Where there are not more than 50 intermediate level sprinklers they may be fed
directly from roof or ceiling system distribution piping.
Where storage racks are freestanding, and the intermediate sprinklers are fed by distribution
pipes attached to the building structure, the rack piping shall be connected to the
distribution pipes by universal joints or flexible connections.
11.4.2.6 Sprinklers in concealed spaces
Where sprinkler protection is required in concealed spaces and under floor spaces to satisfy
the requirements of Clause 5.6.1 and 5.6.2, it shall be hydraulically designed in accordance
with the requirements of Section 9 (see Clauses 9.2 and 9.5).
133
FIGURE 11.4.2.1 (A) TYPICAL HIGH HAZARD CLASS SYSTEM PIPE SIZES BASED
ON TABLE 11.4.2.2(A)
134
FIGURE 11.4.2.1 (B) TYPICAL HIGH HAZARD CLASS SYSTEM PIPE SIZES BASED
ON TABLE 11.4.2.2(B)
135
FIGURE 11.4.2.1 (C) TYPICAL HIGH HAZARD CLASS SYSTEMPIPE SIZES BASED
ON TABLE 11.4.2.2(C)
136
TABLE 11.4.2.2(A)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SPRINKLERS ON PRE-CALCULATED PIPING FOR
DESIGN DENSITIES OF DISCHARGE NOT EXCEEDING 15 mm/min
Systems with water supplies complying with the pressure and flow requirements
for Item 1 in Table 11.2.1 and using 15 mm (nominal) size sprinklers .
(a)
Range pipes
Ranges
Nominal internal
pipe size
mm
Maximum number of
sprinklers permitted
on range pipes
(see Note 1)
25
32
1
2
(ii)
25
32
2
3
25
32
40
2
3
4
25
32
3
4
(b)
Distribution pipes
Distribution pipes
Nominal internal
pipe size
mm
32
40
50
65
80
100
Maximum number of
sprinklers to be fed by
distribution pipe
2
4
8
12
18
48 (Note 2)
NOTES:
1
No arrangement is allowed with more than four sprinklers per range pipe. No range pipe may be
connected to a distribution pipe exceeding 150 mm in diameter.
This requirement does not preclude the use of 100 mm pipe between the design point and the
installation control assemblies if hydraulic calculation shows that this is possible.
The maximum length of 25 mm pipe allowed in any route from a sprinkler to the installation
control assembly is 15 m including allowance for elbows.
137
TABLE 11.4.2.2(B)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SPRINKLERS ON PRE-CALCULATED PIPING FOR
DESIGN DENSITIES OF DISCHARGE NOT EXCEEDING 15 mm/min
Systems with water supplies complying with the pressure and flow requirements
for Item 2 in Table 11.2.1 and using 15 mm (nominal) size sprinklers.
(a)
Range pipes
Ranges
Nominal internal
pipe size
mm
Maximum number of
sprinklers permitted
on range pipes
(see Note 1)
25
32
1
3
(ii)
25
32
2
3
25
32
40
2
3
4
25
32
3
4
(b)
Distribution pipes
Distribution pipes
Nominal internal
pipe size
mm
50 (Note 2)
65
80
100
150
Maximum number of
sprinklers to be fed by
distribution pipe
4
8
12
16
48 (Note 3)
NOTES:
1
No arrangement is allowed with more than four sprinklers per range pipe. No range pipe may be
connected to a distribution pipe exceeding 150 mm in diameter.
No distribution pipe less than 65 mm diameter is permitted for four end-side systems.
This requirement does not preclude the use of 150 mm pipe between the design point and the
installation control assemblies if hydraulic calculation shows that this is possible.
The maximum length of 25 mm pipe allowed in any route from a sprinkler to the installation
control assembly is 15 m including allowance for elbows.
138
TABLE 11.4.2.2(C)
MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SPRINKLERS ON PRE-CALCULATED PIPING FOR
DESIGN DENSITIES OF DISCHARGE UP TO 30 mm/min
Systems having water supplies complying with the pressure and flow requirements
for Item 3 in Table 11.2.1 and using 15 mm (nominal) size sprinklers
OR
Systems having water supplies complying with the pressure and flow requirements
for Item 4 in Table 11.2.1 and using 20 mm (nominal) size sprinklers
(a)
Range pipes
Ranges
Nominal internal
pipe size
mm
Maximum number of
sprinklers permitted on
range pipes
(see Note 1)
End-side arrangements:
(i)
40
50
65
1
3
6
(ii)
Other ranges
32
40
50
65
1
2
4
6
End-centre arrangements:
(i)
32
40
1
2
(b)
Other ranges
32
32
40
50
1
2
4
(ii)
(b)
Distribution pipes
Distribution pipes
Nominal internal
pipe size
mm
50 (Note 2)
65
80
100
150
Maximum number of
sprinklers to be fed by
distribution pipe
4
8
12
16
48 (Note 3)
NOTES:
1
No end-side arrangement is allowed with more than six sprinklers per range pipe and no end-centre
arrangement with more than four sprinklers per range pipe. No range pipe may be connected to a
distribution pipe exceeding 150 mm in diameter.
No distribution pipe less than 65 mm in diameter is permitted for four end-side systems.
This requirement does not preclude the use of 150 mm pipe between the design point and the
installation control assembly if hydraulic calculation shows that this is possible.
139
TABLE 11.4.2.3
PRESSURE LOSSES FOR MEDIUM TUBES TO AS 1074
Flow rate
L/min
100
150
200
250
100
1 500
2 000
0.44
0.92
1.6
0.065
0.14
0.24
0.015
0.032
0.055
0.005
0.011
0.018
2 300
3 050
3 800
2.0
3.4
5.2
0.3
0.51
0.77
0.071
0.12
0.18
0.023
0.039
0.059
4 550
4 850
6 400
7.2
8.1
13.5
1.1
1.2
2.0
0.25
0.28
0.47
0.082
0.092
0.15
7 200
8 000
8 800
16.8
20.5
24.4
2.5
3.1
3.6
0.58
0.71
0.85
0.19
0.23
0.28
9 650
29.0
4.3
1.0
0.33
NOTES:
1
For heavy tubes, the losses are calculated for the appropriate flow rate
from the data in Section 12. The loss of pressure at each elbow, bend
or tee where the water is turned through an angle, is to be taken as
equal to that incurred through 3 m of straight pipe.
140
SECTI O N
OF
12.1 GENERAL
(b)
(c)
(d)
In Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard class systems, each design area is determined by
selection of a specified number of sprinklers operating simultaneously (see Clauses 9.2 and
10.2).
In High Hazard class systems, each design area is defined in terms of floor area, which
varies in relation to the hazard classification and/or storage arrangement (see Section 11).
The area covered by each sprinkler shall be defined by the centre-lines drawn midway
between adjacent sprinklers at right angles to the line joining the sprinklers and by the
boundary of the area covered (see Figure 12.2). All dimensions shall be applied in the
horizontal plane.
141
In Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard class systems, the number of sprinklers assumed to be
in simultaneous operation shall be the number nominated in Clauses 9.2 and 10.2, as
appropriate.
In High Hazard class systems, the number of sprinklers assumed to be in simultaneous
operation shall be all sprinklers that fall within the design area, or the entire protected area,
whichever is the smaller, including roof/ceiling sprinklers, in-rack sprinklers, sprinklers
protecting building columns and sprinklers beneath platforms, mezzanines and obstructions
etc., but excluding permitted omissions nominated in Section 11, and sprinklers installed in
concealed spaces.
12.4 SPRINKLER DISCHARGE FLOW RATES
12.4.1 Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard class systems
In Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard class systems, the minimum discharge flow rate from
each sprinkler within each design area shall be as nominated in Clauses 9.2 and 10.2, as
appropriate.
12.4.2 High Hazard class systems
In High Hazard class systems, the discharge flow rate from each of the sprinklers at roof or
ceiling level within each design area shall be sufficient to provide the minimum density of
water application (design density) appropriate to the hazard classification and/or storage
arrangement nominated in Section 11.
For the purpose of this clause, when calculating the roof or ceiling level sprinklers, it shall
be sufficient to prove that the total flow from every group of 4 sprinklers within each
design area, divided by the area in square metres covered by the 4 sprinklers, is not less
than the required design density, or, where fewer than 4 sprinklers are in open
communication, the flow rate from each sprinkler divided by the area covered by the
sprinkler, shall be at least equal to the required design density.
142
The area covered by each sprinkler shall be defined by lines drawn midway between
adjacent sprinklers at right angles to the line joining the sprinklers, and by the boundary of
the area covered (see Figure 12.2).
In-rack sprinklers and sprinklers beneath platforms, mezzanines and obstructions, etc., shall
discharge at the minimum flow rate, or at the flow rate derived from the minimum
discharge pressure (as nominated in Section 11), as appropriate to the particular hazard
classification and storage arrangement.
12.5 POSITION OF DESIGN AREAS
12.5.1 Hydraulically most unfavourable areas of operation
The highest pressure demands of the system are those calculated for the hydraulically most
unfavourable areas of operation.
The calculated pressure demands of the hydraulically most unfavourable areas of operation
determine the minimum pressure requirements of the water supply, or conversely,
the minimum water supply characteristics determine the maximum pressure available for
design of the hydraulically most unfavourable areas of operation.
C12.5.1 The term hydraulically most unfavourable is not exclusive. There are
frequently several hydraulically most unfavourable areas within a system, due to
variations in sprinkler arrays, hazard class, range and distribution pipe diameters, roof
heights, multi-level floor elevations, low-level sprinklers, in-rack sprinklers, sprinkler
types and orifice sizes, etc. Many such variations can be present, scattered throughout
the one sprinkler system (which often consists of several sprinkler installations), with
each variation requiring calculation of a separate hydraulically most unfavourable area
of operation.
Water supply pressures decline as flow rates increase. Therefore, where system flow
demands vary for different areas of operation, there will be less pressure available for
design of the areas with higher flow demands. In such cases it is often not only the
highest pressure demand which determines the minimum acceptable flow and pressure
characteristics of the water supply.
To ensure that the minimum water supply flow and pressure characteristics satisfy all
pressure demands of the system, it is recommended that all calculated design area
demand points be plotted when preparing the graphic representation required by
Clause 12.7.
For the purpose of determining the hydraulically most unfavourable position, each design
area shall be located as follows:
(a)
Terminal main system with terminal range pipes At the hydraulically most
unfavourable position on each distribution pipe (see Figures 12.5.1(A) and (B)).
(b)
Looped main system with terminal range pipes At the hydraulically most
unfavourable position on the hydraulically most disadvantaged loop (see
Figure 12.5.1(C)).
(c)
Gridded system with terminal range pipes At the hydraulically most unfavourable
position in each of the following areas:
(d)
(i)
partly between the distribution pipes and partly within the area of the terminal
ranges; or
(ii)
most
143
NOTE: Where the hydraulically most unfavourable position is not readily apparent, calculation of
more than one design area may be required. The most remote area in terms of distance is not
necessarily the hydraulically most unfavourable area. Proof that the hydraulically most
unfavourable area has been established may be required.
144
145
146
147
Terminal main system with terminal range pipes At the hydraulically most
favourable position on each distribution pipe (see Figure 12.5.1(A)).
(b)
Looped main system with terminal range pipes At the hydraulically most favourable
position on the looped main (see Figure 12.5.1(C)).
(c)
Gridded system without terminal range pipes Adjacent to the hydraulically most
favourable distribution pipe (see Figure 12.5.1(D)).
(d)
Gridded system with terminal range pipes Where the terminal ranges are fed from
the most hydraulically favourable distribution pipe, the range pipes shall be either
wholly or partially included in the design area.
C12.5.2 When extrapolating the demand characteristic curves, for the most favourable
design areas, they will intersect the maximum supply curve at flow rates greater than
the calculated flow rates.
In Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard class systems, the shape of each hydraulically most
unfavourable area of operation shall be determined in accordance with the requirements of
Clauses 9.2 or 10.2, as appropriate.
Where necessary, the design area shall include sprinklers on both sides of a distribution
pipe.
148
In High Hazard class systems, the shape of the hydraulically most unfavourable areas of
operation shall be (as near as possible) rectangular. The dimension parallel to the ranges
shall be at least 1.2 times the square root of the required area of operation, except that the
dimension parallel to the ranges shall be at least twice the square root of the required area
of operation
(a)
where range pipes run parallel with the ridge of a roof having a slope greater than 6;
or
(b)
where range pipes run along bays formed by full height walls, smoke curtains or
beams more than 1 m deep, or a combination thereof, with the bays so formed,
regardless of intermediate beams, being not more than 9 m wide.
Where necessary, the design area shall include sprinklers on both sides of a distribution
pipe.
Where the area of the building under consideration is separated from the remainder of the
building by fire-resistant walls or draft curtains and is less than the required design area
specified in Clause 12.2, the design area shall be the entire area under consideration.
Where the ranges have an insufficient number of sprinklers to fulfil the 1.2 times or twice
the square root of the area requirement, the design area shall be extended to include
sprinklers on adjacent ranges supplied by the same distribution pipe. Where the design area
is the entire sprinkler-protected area as described above, all sprinklers in the area shall be
assumed to be in simultaneous operation, regardless of the number of distribution pipes
supplying them.
In determining the number of sprinklers within the design area, fractions of sprinklers shall
be counted as one sprinkler. All dimensions shall be applied in the horizontal plane.
In all cases, sprinklers making up the area of operation that falls outside the rectangular
area shall be placed so as to maximize the hydraulic flow demand of the system, and each
total area of operation shall be positioned so as to maximize the hydraulic pressure demand
of the system.
Variations in sprinkler spacing, layout, elevation, range centres, sprinkler orifice sizes and
pipe sizes, as well as all possible locations, shall be considered when determining the
hydraulically most unfavourable areas of operation.
NOTE: See Commentary C12.5.1.
In a system with terminal mains or looped mains, the shape of each hydraulically most
favourable area of operation shall be (as near as possible) square. As far as is practicable,
the sprinklers under consideration shall be served by one distribution pipe only.
The sprinklers assumed to be operating shall be located on each range pipe or pair of range
pipes for end-centre arrays, at the hydraulically most favourable position.
Any remaining sprinklers not constituting a full range pipe or pair of range pipes shall be
grouped adjacent to the distribution pipe on the next range pipe row of the area so as to
maximize the hydraulic flow demand of the system. All dimensions shall be applied in the
horizontal plane (see Figures 12.5.1(A) and 12.5.1 (C)).
12.6.2.2 Gridded system
In a gridded system, the shape of each hydraulically most favourable area of operation shall
be (as near as possible) square.
149
The sprinklers assumed to be operating shall be located on each range pipe at the
hydraulically most favourable position.
Any remaining sprinklers shall be grouped on the next range pipe row of the area so as to
maximize the hydraulic flow demand of the system (see Figure 12.5.1(D)).
All dimensions shall be applied in the horizontal plane.
12.7 SUPPLY-DEMAND GRAPH
12.7.1 General
The hydraulic supply characteristics of each town main supply when at minimum
pressure, plus the reduced characteristics after extraction of the hydrant flow rates
nominated in Clause 4.3.2.1, appropriate to the greatest hazard class present in the
system.
(b)
The hydraulic supply characteristics of each town main supply when at maximum
pressure. These characteristics shall not be reduced by extraction of hydrant flow
rates.
(c)
Where pumps are installed, the manufacturers characteristic curve for each pumping
unit, plotted only to the flow rate commensurate with the limitation of driver power.
(d)
The combined (pump and town main) characteristic supply curve at minimum
pressure, after reduction of the town main characteristics described in Item (a)
above.
(ii)
The combined (pump and town main) characteristic supply curve at maximum
pressure with no reduction made for hydrant flow rates.
(iii) Where two town mains are boosted by pumps, the requirements of (d) (i) and
(ii) above shall be plotted for each town main supply.
(e)
The combined (pump and tank) characteristics when the stored water is at
normal level (see Figure 4.3.4.2).
(ii)
The combined (pump and tank) characteristics when the stored water is at low
water level (see Figure 4.3.4.2).
(b)
NOTE: Guidance for preparing the graphic representation described above is given in
Appendix E.
150
Water supplies shall comply with the requirements of Section 4 and shall be capable of
satisfying the flow and pressure requirements of any design area in the system, for the
required duration.
For High Hazard class systems, water supplies shall comply with the additional
requirements of Section11.
Where automatic booster pumps form part of the water supplies, the additional requirements
of Clause 12.9 shall apply, and water supplies shall be capable of operating at not less than
the maximum flow rate of the system (Q max.) (see Clause 12.9.2).
12.9 PUMPSETS
12.9.1 General
Pumpsets shall be capable of satisfying the flow and pressure requirements of any design
area, and the maximum flow rate of the system (Q max.).
12.9.2 Maximum flow rate of the system (Q max.)
12.9.2.1 Determination
Determination of the maximum flow rate of the system is necessary to ensure the adequacy
of
(a)
(b)
town main supplies in meeting the maximum flow rate of the system plus the hydrant
flow rates nominated in Clause 4.3.2.1(c);
(c)
velocity calculations in water supply connections to pumps (see Clauses 4.3.8.3); and
(d)
available net positive suction head (NPSHA) (see AS 2941), as necessary for the
sizing of pump suction piping.
System maximum flow rates shall be determined in accordance with the requirements of
Clauses 12.9.2.2 or 12.9.2.3, as applicable.
12.9.2.2 Pumps drawing from pump suction tanks
The maximum flow rate of the pump ( Q max.) shall be assumed to occur at the point of
intersection of the flow and pressure characteristics of the hydraulically most favourable
area of operation producing the greatest flow rate in the system, and the pump performance
flow and pressure characteristics, when the tank water is at the normal water level (see
Figure 4.3.4.2).
12.9.2.3 Pumps drawing from town mains
The maximum flow rate of the pump ( Q max.) shall be assumed to occur at the point of
intersection of
(a)
the flow and pressure characteristics for the hydraulically most favourable area of
operation producing the greatest flow rate in the system; and
(b)
the water supply flow and pressure characteristics (combined output of pump and
town main), with the town main at maximum pressure.
NOTE: Where two town mains constitute a dual supply, the minimum supply characteristics will
normally be from one town main and the maximum supply characteristics from the other.
Pressure losses due to water flow through pipes shall be calculated using the Hazen
Williams equation, as follows:
151
P = 6.05
Q1.85
108
C1.85 d 4.87
where
P
= mean internal diameter of pipe, in millimetres (see Tables 12.10(B) and 12.10(C)).
Pressure losses in steel, galvanized steel, cast iron, ductile iron and copper pipes may be
calculated using a simplified equation as follows:
P = KQ 1.85
where
Coefficient
100
Steel (galvanized)
120
120
Asbestos cement
140
140
140
140
Copper
150
Polyethylene
150
150
152
TABLE 12.10(B)
MEAN INTERNAL DIAMETERS AND VALUES OF
K FOR STEEL TUBE TO AS 1074
Medium
Nominal dia. DN
Mean (internal)
diameter
Heavy
K
Mean (internal)
diameter
mm
mm
20
25
32
21.6
27.3
36.0
2.73 10 3
8.73 10 4
2.27 10 4
20.4
25.7
34.4
3.61 10 3
1.17 10 3
2.83 10 4
40
50
65
41.9
53.0
68.7
1.08 10 4
3.45 10 5
9.76 10 6
40.3
51.3
67.0
1.31 10 4
4.05 10 5
1.10 10 5
80
90*
100
80.7
93.2
105.1
4.45 10 6
2.21 10 6
1.23 10 6
79.1
91.6
103.3
4.91 10 6
2.41 10 6
1.34 10 6
125
150
129.9
155.4
4.38 10 7
1.83 10 7
128.8
154.3
4.58 10 7
1.90 10 7
TABLE 12.10(C)
MEAN INTERNAL DIAMETERS AND VALUES OF
K FOR COPPER PIPES TO AS 1432
Type A
Nominal dia.
DN
Mean internal
diameter
Type B
K
Mean internal
diameter
mm
mm
20
25
32
16.2
22.1
28.4
7.34 10 3
1.62 10 3
4.77 10 4
17.0
22.9
29.3
5.81 10 3
1.36 10 3
4.10 10 4
40
50
65
34.8
47.5
60.2
1.77 10 4
3.89 10 5
1.23 10 5
35.6
48.3
61.0
1.59 10 4
3.59 10 5
1.15 10 5
80
90
100
72.0
84.7
97.4
5.14 10 6
2.33 10 6
1.18 10 6
72.8
85.5
98.2
4.87 10 6
2.22 10 6
1.13 10 6
125
150
122.8
147.0
3.83 10 7
1.59 10 7
123.6
148.2
3.70 10 7
1.53 10 7
NOTES:
1
Diameters for pipes in other materials should be obtained from the manufacturers.
153
Loss of pressure due to water flow through pipe fittings, where the direction of water flow
is changed through an angle of 45 or more (other than the change of direction into a
sprinkler from an elbow or tee into which the sprinkler is fitted), or through valves, shall be
calculated by adding the appropriate equivalent pipe lengths given in Table 12.11.1, to the
actual lengths in the network under consideration.
TABLE 12.11.1
EQUIVALENT PIPE LENGTHS FOR FITTINGS AND VALVES
(APPLICABLE TO HAZEN-WILLIAMS C VALUE OF 120 ONLY)
Fittings and valves
Equivalent length, m
Nominal diameter, mm
20
25
32
40
50
65
80
90
100
125
150
200
250
300
90 standard elbow
0.6
0.6
0.9
1.2
1.5
1.8
2.1
2.4
3.0
3.7
4.3
5.5
6.7
8.2
0.3
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.9
1.2
1.5
1.5
1.8
2.4
2.7
4.0
4.9
5.5
45 elbow
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.6
0.6
0.9
0.9
0.9
1.2
1.5
2.1
2.7
3.4
4.0
0.9
1.5
1.8
2.4
3.0
3.7
4.6
5.2
6.1
7.6
Gate valve
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.6
0.6
0.9
1.5
2.1
2.7
3.4
4.3
4.9
5.8
6.7
8.2
18.0
1.8
2.1
3.0
3.7
2.7
3.0
6.4
1.2
3.7
1.5
5.8
1.8
For other values of C, the equivalent lengths shall be multiplied by factors as follows:
C Value
100
110
120
130
140
150
Factor
0.71
0.85
1.00
1.16
1.33
1.51
For a dry pattern sprinkler assembly, the K factor shall be considered to apply at the entry
to the sprinkler assembly with no additional allowance being made for friction losses due to
flow through the sprinkler assembly dry pipe. Allowance shall be made for the static head
gain or loss due to the length and orientation of the dry pipe.
12.12 ACCURACY OF CALCULATIONS
the total flow into the junction shall equal the total flow out of the junction to an
accuracy of 2 L/min; and
(b)
The pressure at any sprinkler, with all sprinklers discharging simultaneously within any
design area, shall be not less than 50 kPa.
154
No distribution or range pipe shall be less than DN 25 except that DN 20 is permitted for
connection to single sprinklers in Light Hazard class systems only.
12.15 VELOCITY LIMITATION
The water velocity shall not exceed 6 m/s at any valve nor exceed 10 m/s at any point in the
system, for any stabilized flow condition except that these restrictions shall not apply when
calculating the hydraulically most favourable areas of operation.
12.16 VELOCITY PRESSURE
A durable notice shall be fixed to the riser pipe, immediately adjacent to the control
assembly, of any installation that has been hydraulically calculated. The notice shall be
similar to that shown in Figure 12.17 and shall include the following information:
(a)
Installation number.
(b)
(c)
the system design requirement at the installation gauge for the most
unfavourable and favourable design areas;
(ii)
the system design requirement at the pump delivery pressure gauge for the most
unfavourable and favourable design areas;
(iii) height of highest sprinklers above the installation gauge in the most
unfavourable and favourable design area; and
(iv)
height difference between installation gauge and pump delivery pressure gauge.
155
Installation No.
Design specification
System demand
Height
of
Hazard
Density of highest
Area of
class operation discharge m
head,*
m/min
m2
m
Unfavourable area
Flow
L/min
Pressure
(kPa)
installation
gauge
Favourable area
Pump
gauge
Flow
L/min
Pressure
(kPa)
installation
gauge
Pump
gauge
Address
(d)
156
This Appendix sets out a formula to calculate the hydraulic balance of orifice plates.
Tables A1 and A2 have been produced to assist in calculating the appropriate diameter of
the orifice to achieve the desired hydraulic balance required in Clauses 7.7 and Section 11.
The Tables indicate the correct orifice diameter in respect of pipe sizes from 50 mm to
200 mm for discrete values of pressure loss ( Po ) in kilopascals for an assumed rate of flow
(Qo ) in litres per minute. Table A1 (for the smaller diameter pipes) is based on a flow of
500 L/min and Table A2 (for the larger diameter pipes) is based on a flow of 5000 L/min.
The K factor referred to in the last column of Tables A1 and A2 is the constant in the
following equation:
K=
. . . A1
P
where
P=
pressure loss in kilopascals due to the orifice with a rate of flow of water
Q L/min.
The pressure loss produced by the orifice plate is the net pressure across the orifice and not
the pressure difference measured at flange, corner or D and D/2 tapping points.
A2 REQUIREMENTS
They shall be of brass with plain central holes without burrs and of thickness
specified in Table A3.
They shall be located not less than two pipe diameters from any elbow or bend,
measured in the direction of flow.
They shall have a projecting identification tag which shall be readily visible,
and on which shall be stamped the nominal pipe diameter and K factor of the
orifice.
To select an orifice plate that will produce a pressure loss of Px , in kilopascals, with a rate
of flow of Qx , in litres per minute, calculate the value of Po from the following formulae
and refer to the appropriate Tables for the correct orifice diameter (interpolate as
necessary):
Pipe sizes DN 50 and DN 65:
500
Po = Px
Qx
. . . A3(1)
157
5000
Po = Px
Q
x
. . . A3(2)
TABLE A1
ORIFICE PLATES FOR PIPES OF SIZE DN 50 AND DN 65
FOR A FLOW RATE OF 500 L/min
Orifice diameter, mm
Pressure loss P o
DN 50
DN 65
K factor
250
225
200
25.9
26.5
27.1
31.6
33.3
35.4
175
150
125
27.9
28.8
29.6
37.8
40.8
44.7
100
90
80
30.9
31.1
32.2
34.5
50.0
52.7
55.9
70
60
50
32.8
33.7
34.7
35.3
36.3
37.6
59.8
64.5
70.7
40
30
20
5.9
37.5
39.7
39.3
41.2
44.2
79.1
91.3
111.8
10
5
42.7
49.1
53.6
158.1
223.6
158
TABLE A2
ORIFICE PLATES FOR PIPES OF SIZE DN 80, DN 100, DN 150
AND DN 200 FOR A FLOW RATE OF 5000 L/min
Orifice diameter, mm
Pressure loss (P 0 )
DN 80
DN 100
DN 150
DN 200
3 500
3 000
2 500
41.9
43.0
44.8
84.5
91.3
100.0
2 000
1 500
1 000
46.4
48.9
52.3
55.6
111.18
129.1
158.1
900
800
700
53.2
54.1
55.3
57.6
59.0
60.4
166.7
176.8
189.0
600
500
400
56.6
58.2
59.3
62.0
63.9
66.5
204.1
223.6
250.0
300
200
100
62.0
65.0
69.7
74.2
81.1
82.3
95.8
288.7
353.6
500.0
90
80
70
82.2
83.3
84.4
97.1
99.3
101.7
105.7
108.1
111.1
527.0
559.0
597.6
60
50
40
85.7
87.0
104.0
106.8
110.1
113.9
117.7
122.2
645.5
707.1
790.6
30
20
10
115.1
120.6
129.1
137.7
152.6
912.9
1 118.0
1 581.0
165.8
2 236.0
TABLE A3
ORIFICE PLATE THICKNESS
Nominal internal pipe
size
Orifice plate
thickness
mm
DN 50
DN 65
DN 80
3
3
3
DN 100
DN 150
DN 200
6
6
6
K factor
159
APPENDIX B
This Appendix sets out examples of acceptable water supply arrangements that are
considered to be reliable for the purposes of the requirements of Section 4.
Single water supplies with pumps are shown in Figure B1.
Dual supplies for high-rise buildings are shown in Figures B3 and B2.
The symbols used in Figures B1, B2 and B3 are defined in Figure B4.
160
161
162
163
This Appendix explains the methodology normally used during, and at completion of, the
design process, to provide the graphic representation of the complete hydraulic
characteristics of the sprinkler system, as required by Clause 12.7.
C2 THE SUPPLY-DEMAND GRAPH
A graph is essential for determination of the point where total supply meets total demand.
The graph sheet (see Figure C2) typically has its volume scale on the horizontal axis
representing the flow of water in pipes, in litres per minute, to the exponent 1.85, which is
the exponent used for volume in the Hazen-Williams equation (see Clause 12.10).
Numerical values on this scale may be multiplied by any constant that will enable the
required maximum volume to be plotted.
Increments of pressure, in kilopascals, on the vertical axis, are linear and values should be
entered so as to enable the maximum supply pressure of the system to be plotted.
The advantage of the N1.85 supply-demand graph is that it enables the hydraulic
characteristic curve of a piping system to appear as a straight line. Thus, only two points of
the characteristic curve are required, and with a straight line drawn through these two
points, the rate of flow can be determined at any residual pressure along the line, or viceversa.
By contrast, on a graph sheet with the volume scale to the exponent 1.0, the hydraulic
characteristics appear as a curve, with many calculations necessary to plot the points
required to produce the curve.
All sprinkler system demand curves plot as a straight line on N 1.85 graphs, however, some
supply curves do not. Pump supply characteristics do not plot as a straight line, nor do the
characteristics of town main and pump when combined. Also, when a constant hydrant flow
is deducted from town main supply characteristics, a slight curve results.
164
An understanding of the influence of static pressure is vital for the accurate presentation of
the complete hydraulic characteristics of sprinkler systems.
True static pressure is the weight of water at rest (not flowing); however, in this Standard,
the term static pressure is used in three ways, as follows:
The pressure generated from the height of still water in a gravity tank. (This is true
static pressure).
The pressure in a town main, with no flow to the sprinklers or hydrants. (This is not true
static pressure because the water is normally always flowing in the town main, at varying
rates, due to domestic and industrial usage (see Paragraph 0)).
The pressure also varies due to fluctuations in flow at different times of the day, week or
season. The static pressure available for supply to a sprinkler system should be based on the
pressure available at the time of day or week or year when the domestic and industrial
demand is greatest. Static pressure alone cannot be used to assess the suitability of a town
main. It must always be accompanied by at least one residual pressure at a flow rate as near
as possible to the maximum flow rate of the system.
The pressure difference between any two points in the system due solely to the
difference in elevation between the two points.
Static (elevation) pressure demand, in kilopascals, is calculated by multiplying the
difference in elevation, in metres, by 9.8. The result may be positive or negative, depending
on whether the downstream point is higher or lower than the upstream point.
Whilst static pressure contributes to the total system pressure demand, it has no influence
on friction loss. Friction loss is not influenced by pressure. It is dependent only on the rate
of flow, diameter, length and roughness of pipe, and the number of turns in the pipework.
The total static pressure demand for a particular design area is constant, regardless of the
rate of flow. It is the same at zero flow as at the calculated total flow rate of the design
area.
165
For instance, if the pressure-flow demand for a design area is 2000 L/min at a residual
pressure of 200 kPa, and the 200 kPa residual pressure demand includes 50 kPa of static
pressure, two pressure-flow characteristics are known. These are 2000 L/min at 200 kPa,
and zero L/min at 50 kPa. If a straight line is drawn through these two points on the N 1.85
graph, every point along the line will give another pressure-flow characteristic for that
particular design area. The total static pressure contained within the total pressure demand
for each design area must be entered at zero flow before the pressure-flow demand
characteristics of the design area can be shown accurately on the graph.
C4 SINGLE TOWN MAIN SUPPLY
Town main supply curves are plotted onto the graph sheet to show the static pressure and
residual pressures available, at various rates of flow, at a particular geographical location.
Initially, this location will be at the point where the sprinkler system supply pipework
connects into the town main (the tapping point). These supply characteristics descend from
left to right on the graph, indicating that as flow rates increase, the available pressure
decreases as a result of friction loss in the town main.
Supply curves are plotted from information collected at data recording facilities provided
by the water supply authority, or from flow test results. Static pressure, plus at least one
residual pressure, is necessary for plotting purposes. Two or more residual pressures, with
their respective flow rates, are desirable for maximum accuracy.
When seeking town main supply characteristics, residual pressures at flow rates up to twice
the expected calculated flow rate of the sprinkler system may be required to facilitate the
deduction of hydrant flow requirements in accordance with Clause 4.2.3.
When more than one residual pressure is provided, the characteristic curve of a town main
may not always plot in a straight line, due to fluctuations in domestic and industrial water
usage occurring during the stages of data collection.
Water supply authorities normally provide pressure-flow characteristics applicable under
minimum supply conditions (when pressures are at their lowest), together with a maximum
static pressure (the static pressure available when supply pressures are at their highest).
Where this information is not available, flow tests must be conducted and the test results
adjusted to reflect conditions under minimum and maximum supply conditions.
As there is normally always a flow to domestic and industrial water consumers serviced by
the town main network, water supply authorities seldom refer to static pressure when
providing pressure/flow characteristics. The water supply authority normally provides a
maximum pressure, a minimum pressure, and a series of residual pressures at various rates
of flow. The series of residual pressures and corresponding rates of flow are normally
applicable when the town main is under minimum supply conditions (when pressures are at
their lowest). The minimum and maximum pressures given are residual pressures applicable
when there is no flow occurring for fire fighting purposes, and are the pressures referred to
as static pressures for the purposes of this Standard.
Where suitable infield monitoring equipment is installed by the water supply authority, it is
possible to obtain a minimum pressure available for 95% of the time. This Standard permits
adoption of this pressure as the minimum static pressure available for system design
purposes.
Example
Given:
High Hazard class system.
Estimated calculated flow demand = 2800 L/min.
Town main supply data requested up to 6000 L/min.
166
Flow of 10.0
l / sec at 48.8
m residual pressure
Flow of 20.0
l / sec at 48.2
m residual pressure
Flow of 30.0
l / sec at 47.2
m residual pressure
Flow of 40.0
l / sec at 45.9
m residual pressure
Flow of 60.0
l / sec at 42.3
m residual pressure
Flow of 80.0
l / sec at 37.8
m residual pressure
Flow of 100.0
l / sec at 32.1
m residual pressure
NOTE: This information has been prepared using a simulated hydraulic performance
model.
Size and location of main: 200 mm AC main 4.6 m from South B.L. of XXX
Street.
The above minimum and flow pressures are based on current operational data for
peak consumption days and a change of demand within the supply zone would
cause future variations.
The above flows are not available for general supply and are quoted for fire
protection purposes. It is only in these emergencies that (the authority) is
prepared to allow the water supply system to be depleted to a level below the
normal operational pressures. No assumption should be made from the above as
to the adequacy of the system to provide increased general supply requirements.
In the authoritys paragraph number 6, note the use of the term minimum residual
pressure. Normally, a residual pressure is of value only when a related rate of flow is
given; however, in the context of the total information supplied, and for the reasons given
above, the pressure nominated as the minimum pressure available for 95% of the time may
be considered to be the minimum static pressure for the purposes of this Standard.
The maximum supply characteristics of a town main plot parallel to the minimum
characteristics (except in some rural areas, where pumps may bypass elevated tanks or
reservoirs to boost pressures in the town main system). Therefore, having received all
necessary minimum supply characteristics, it is necessary to obtain only the maximum
static pressure of the town main. Note, however, that in the case of dual supplies, the
maximum supply characteristics will not plot parallel to the minimum supply characteristics
because the two sets of data will relate to alternate town mains having dissimilar
pressure/flow characteristics.
167
The following steps are recommended for plotting of the town main characteristics, as
depicted in Figure E4:
Step 1:
Step 2:
Plot the minimum residual pressures given for each given flow rate.
Step 3:
Draw a line intersecting all points plotted in steps 1 and 2 (Curve A).
Step 4:
Plot the minimum pressure available for 95% of the time541 kPaat zero
flow.
Step 5:
Draw a line parallel to Curve A, with all points along the line being 60 kPa (541
481) above Curve A. This curve (Curve B) may be considered as the minimum
supply for hydrants and sprinklers, as previously explained.
Step 6:
To satisfy Clause 4.2.3, a hydrant system flow demand of 1800 L/min must be
deducted from Curve B to establish the minimum pressure/flow characteristics
available for the sprinkler system. At 1800 L/min, the residual pressure on
Curve B is 522 kPa, therefore the first point on the new Curve C is 522 kPa at
zero flow. At 2400 L/min, the residual pressure on Curve B is 507 kPa which,
with a deduction of 1800 L/min will result in another point on the new Curve C
of 507 kPa at 600 L/min. Continue on the same basis and then draw a line
intersecting all the new points plotted. This curve (Curve C) is the characteristic
curve of the minimum town main supply available for design of the sprinkler
system.
168
Step 7:
Where pumps draw direct from a town main, the system datum point should be located at
the centre-line of the pumps. To eliminate the need for extra calculations and plotting of
extra curves, pump discharge and inlet pipe manifolds should be arranged symmetrically,
wherever possible.
Having determined that booster pumps are required, results of any previous hydraulic
calculations should be checked to ensure that all calculated pressure/flow demands relate to
the system datum point (the centre-line of the pumps) and adjusted where necessary.
However, to avoid duplication of effort, hydraulic calculations should be carried out after
determination of available supply characteristics.
A major initial consideration when designing the system, is the maximum pressure that will
be generated when a pump is operating under closed system (zero flow) conditions, with
maximum town main supply pressure applied at the pump inlet. This pressure is limited by
the recommended safe working pressures of pump casings, pipework, valves and sprinklers.
Consideration must also be given to system standing pressure, booster pump-start initiation
pressures, jacking pump cut-in and cut-out pressures, drainage of discharge from pressure
relief valves, etc. Consideration of these limitations at the initial stages of design, will
assist in selection of pump duty points, and will provide design parameters for the hydraulic
calculation process.
Example 1 :
Given:
High Hazard Class system.
Town main characteristics are as given in Example 4.1.
Two booster pumps are required, each capable of providing independently the necessary
pressure and flow.
Pump discharge and inlet manifolds are arranged so that pressure losses in pump supply
and discharge pipework apply equally to each pump.
The system datum point is the centre-line of pumps.
The centre-line of both pumps is 4.2 m above the town main.
The friction loss in the connection pipe between the town main and each pump is
172 kPa at a flow of 6000 L/min.
There are two hydraulically most unfavourable design areas with the following
calculated demands at the system datum point:
3150 L/min at 810 kPa, including static pressure of 220 kPa.
3280 L/min at 790 kPa, including static pressure of 210 kPa.
There are two hydraulically most favourable design areas with the following calculated
demands at the system datum point:
169
The following steps are recommended for graphic representation of the complete hydraulic
characteristics of the system, as depicted in Figures C5.1(A) and (B):
Steps
1 to 5:
Step 6:
Step 7:
Plot the demand points representing the pressure losses between the town main
and the pumps. As the pumps are located 4.2 m above the town main, a static
pressure loss of 41 kPa (4.2 9.8) must be added to the friction loss of 172 kPa
between the two locations. This results in a total pressure loss of 213 kPa at a
flow rate of 6000 L/min. Therefore the first point to be plotted is 41 kPa at zero
flow, and the second point is 213 kPa at 6000 L/min.
Step 8:
Draw a line intersecting these two points thus producing Curve D, representing
the hydraulic demand characteristics of the connection pipework between the
town main and each pump.
Step 9:
Deduct the losses of demand Curve D from supply Curve C, to produce a new
Curve E, representing the minimum town main supply characteristics available
at the system datum point (the centre-line of the pumps). To avoid the confusion
of the many curves that will be developed, transfer Curve E to a new graph (see
Figure C5.1(B)).
Step 10:
Plot the two calculated demand points for the two hydraulically most
unfavourable design areas, 3150 L/min at 810 kPa, and 3280 L/min at 790 kPa
onto the new graph (Figure C5.1(B)).
Step 11:
Select pumps having pressure/flow characteristics that will boost the minimum
town main characteristics (Curve E) at least 50 kPa above the two demand
points plotted in Step 10. (This 50 kPa pressure margin is necessary to satisfy
the requirements of Clause 4.2.11.4).
At the calculated flow rate of 3150 L/min, the minimum town main pressure is
330 kPa. Deduction of this pressure from the calculated demand pressure of
810 kPa leaves a balance of 480 kPa. After adding the necessary 50 kPa margin,
the minimum required pump duty pressure at 3150 L/min is 530 kPa. Following
the same process for the second calculated demand point, the second minimum
required pump duty pressure is (790 320 + 50) = 520 kPa at the flow rate of
3280 L/min. For the purposes of this example, the characteristics of each of the
pumps selected are depicted as Curve F in Figure C.1(B).
Step 12:
Add the pressures of Curves E and F, at each of the various rates of flow, as
necessary to produce the minimum combined (town main combined with pump)
pressure/flow characteristics applicable at the system datum point (Curve G in
Figure C.1(B)).
170
Step 13:
Plot the maximum town main supply characteristics applicable at the system
datum point. Note that deduction of hydrant flow is not permitted when
assessing the maximum pressure/flow characteristics of town mains (see
Clause 12.7(B)).
Referring to the data supplied by the water supply authority, note that the
maximum town main pressure of 640 kPa is 99 kPa higher than the minimum
pressure of 541 kPa available for 95% of the time. Therefore, plot the maximum
town main characteristics parallel to Curve D, with all points along the line
being 99 kPa above Curve B. This curve (Curve H) represents the maximum
town main supply characteristics applicable at the tapping point on the town
main.
Step 14:
Deduct the losses of demand Curve D from supply Curve H, to produce a new
Curve J, representing the maximum town main supply characteristics applicable
at the system datum point (the centre-line of the pumps).
Step 15:
Add the pressures of Curves F and J, at each of the various rates of flow, as
necessary to produce the maximum combined (town main combined with pump)
pressure/flow characteristics applicable at the system datum point (Curve K in
Figure C5.1(B)).
Step 16:
Plot the calculated demand points for the two hydraulically most favourable
design areas, 3275 L/min at 755 kPa, and 3400 L/min at 740 kPa.
Step 17:
Plot the static pressures contained within the two calculated pressure demands
plotted in Step 15. These are 180 kPa and 190 kPa, respectively. These are
plotted at zero flow.
Step 18:
Draw lines intersecting each pair of points plotted in Steps 16 and 17, and carry
each line through to intersect Curve K. These curves (Curves L and M in
Figure C5.1(B)) represent the demand characteristics of the two hydraulically
most favourable design areas. The flow rate at the intersection of demand
Curve M and supply Curve K (Point X in Figure C5.1(B)) is considered as the
maximum flow rate of the system and of the pump (see Clause 12.9.2.2).
Step 19:
(b)
(c)
The recommended safe working pressure of the pump casing, piping, pipe
fittings, valves, sprinklers, etc., is not less than the pressure generated at
zero flow when the pumps are operating at maximum inlet pressure
(pump shut-off headPoint Y in Figure C5.1(B)). (See also
Clause 4.2.1 relating to maximum permitted pressure at sprinklers).
(d)
The velocity in the connection piping between the town main and the
pumps does not exceed the 4.0 m/s limitation imposed by Clause 4.2.4
when a pump is operating at maximum flow rate (Point X in
Figure C5.1(B)).
To assist in the collation of data and preparation of the graph, it is recommended that data
be entered progressively into a table, as depicted in Table C5.1.
171
FIGURE C5.1 (A) WORKED EXAMPLE OF HIGH HAZARD CLASS SYSTEM TOWN MAIN
AND PUMP SUPPLYINCLUDING HYDRANTS
172
FIGURE C5.1 (B) WORKED EXAMPLE OF HIGH HAZARD CLASS SYSTEM TOWN MAIN
AND PUMP SUPPLYEXCLUDING HYDRANTS
173
TABLE C5.1
DATA COLLATION TO ASSIST WITH GRAPH
A
Flow
rate
Min.
town
main at
tapping
95%
town
main at
tapping
L/min
kPa
kPa
kPa
A + 60
-1800
L/min
95%
95% town
Loss
Min.
Max.
town
main at
town main at Pump combined
town
tapping
main to pump
curve town main main at
sprinkler
pump sprinkler
and pump tapping
only
only
kPa
kPa
kPa
C-D
Max.
Max.
combined
town
town
main at
main and
pump
pump
kPa
kPa
kPa
kPa
E+F
B + 99
H -D
J+F
481
541
523
41
482
602
1 084
640
599
1 201
600
478
538
510
45
465
604
1 069
637
592
1 196
1 200
472
532
494
50
444
596
1 040
631
581
1 177
1 800
463
523
475
56
419
581
1 000
622
566
1 147
2 400
450
510
453
72
381
563
944
609
537
1 100
3 000
434
494
430
89
341
539
880
593
504
1 043
3 600
415
475
405
113
292
505
797
574
461
966
4 200
393
453
375
132
243
454
697
552
420
874
4 800
370
430
5 400
345
405
6 000
315
375
Note also, where the two pumps have differing pressure-flow characteristics (as will often
occur when one is electric motor-driven, and the other is diesel engine-driven) it will be
necessary to plot separate curves (F, G and K) for each pump.
Where three pumps are proposed, any two of which are capable of providing, in aggregate,
the necessary pressure and flow, the two characteristic curves can be combined
horizontally. That is, at any given pressure, the flow rates can be combined.
If three pumps, with identical performance characteristics, were to be used in the previous
Example 1 of Paragraph 5, and each pump was capable of providing half the flow rate
commensurate with the pressures given in column F of Table C5.1, any two of the pumps
operating simultaneously in parallel, would provide the pressure-flow characteristics of
Curve F in Figure C5.1(B).
The flow rates at any given pressure can also be combined where pumps with dissimilar
characteristics are operating in parallel.
Example 2:
Given:
(a)
Three pumps are to be installed, any two of which are to be capable of providing, in
aggregate, the necessary flow and pressure requirements of the system.
(b)
(c)
174
Task:
To determine the minimum and maximum performance characteristics of any combination
of two pumps operating in parallel.
Recommended Procedure:
Step 1:
Step 2:
Prepare a table of flows and pressures (see Table C5.2), reading off the graph the
flow rates applicable to individual residual pressures. 50 kPa increments of
pressure are used to simplify the plotting process.
Step 3:
Plot the combined flow rates at the applicable residual pressures onto the graph
(see Figure C5.2).
175
TABLE C5.2
COMBINING PUMP CURVES
Each of
pumps
Nos 1 and 2
Pump
No. 3
Pumps
Nos 1 and 2
combined
Pumps
Nos 1 and 3
combined
Flow
L/min
Flow
L/min
Flow
L/min
Flow
L/min
890
1 000
2 000
1 000
855
2 900
1 600
5 800
4 500
850
3 000
2 000
6 000
5 000
800
4 000
3 500
8 000
7 500
750
4 700
4 200
9 400
8 900
700
5 200
4 650
10 400
9 850
650
5 500
4 970
11 000
10 470
600
5 700
5 200
11 400
10 900
Pressure
kPa
Where three pumps are installed, as described above, hydraulic calculations should
incorporate provision for two system inlet points and the pump performance characteristics
applicable at each inlet point. If this is not possible, hydraulic calculations should be based
on the total demand flow rate being supplied to, and discharged from, the pump at the
hydraulically most disadvantaged location, notwithstanding the fact that the pump is
discharging less than the total demand flow rate.
176
Where dual supplies, involving two separate town mains, are required, the minimum
characteristics of both should be obtained. When pumps are necessary to boost inadequate
town main pressures, the maximum static pressure applicable to each town main supply is
also required. The characteristics of the two sets of test data relating to minimum supply
conditions, should be examined carefully, and the worst supply characteristics should be
plotted for design and review purposes.
Similarly, when booster pumps are installed, the two maximum supply characteristics
should be examined, and the supply giving the greater maximum residual pressure at or near
to the maximum flow rate of the system, should be plotted. In this situation, the maximum
supply characteristics of one town main will not normally plot parallel to the minimum
supply characteristics of the other, as they are separate supplies with dissimilar
characteristics.
This procedure applies to separate town mains, and also when dual sprinkler system supply
connections are taken from a single town main, with a stop valve fitted on the town main
between the two sprinkler supply branches. The minimum and maximum supply
characteristics should be applicable to the town main reticulation each side of the stop
valve, on the basis that the stop valve will be closed at the time of system operation.
Example
Given:
High Hazard class system.
Estimated calculated flow demand for the hydraulically most unfavourable design
area = 3750 L/min.
Dual supplies are required.
Pressure losses from each tapping point to the sprinkler system, are equal (see Column D,
Table C6.1).
The water supply authority provides the following test data, applicable at the tapping points
on the town main, based on the stop valve being closed.
Flow
L/min
Residual pressure
kPa
Flow
L/min
Residual pressure
kPa
1200
725
1200
726
2400
700
2400
717
3600
657
3600
690
4800
623
4800
663
6000
565
6000
637
7200
500
7200
597
8000
450
8000
570
177
The water supply authority is unable to supply minimum pressures available for 95%
of the time.
The following steps are recommended for plotting of the town main characteristics, as
depicted in Figure C6(A).
Step 1:
Plot the minimum characteristics of both town mains, and develop Curves A and
B as shown in Figure C6(A).
Step 2:
Step 3:
If booster pumps are not required, a hydrant system flow demand of 1800 L/min
must be deducted from Curve A to establish the minimum pressure/flow
characteristics available for the sprinkler system.
At 1800 L/min, the residual pressure on Curve A is 715 kPa, therefore the first
point on new Curve C is 715 kPa at zero flow. At 2400 L/min the residual
pressure on Curve A is 700 kPa which, with a deduction of 1800 L/min, will
result in another point on new Curve C of 700 kPa at 600 L/min. Continue to
deduct 1800 L/min from Curve A on the same basis, then draw a line connecting
all the new points plotted. This curve (Curve C in Figure C6(A)) is the
characteristic curve of the minimum town main supply available for design of
the sprinkler system.
Step 4:
Step 5:
Note that the greatest residual pressures are provided from Town Main No. 2.
Note also that the maximum static pressure of 880 kPa for Town Main No. 2 is
150 kPa above the minimum pressure of 730 kPa. Draw a line parallel to
Curve B, with all points along the line being 150 kPa above Curve B. This curve
(Curve C) represents the maximum town main supply characteristics available at
the town main tapping point (see Figure C6(B)).
Step 6:
A hydrant system flow demand of 1800 L/min must be deducted from Curve A
to establish the minimum pressure/flow characteristics available for the
sprinkler system (see Clause 4.2.3). At 1800 L/min, the residual pressure on
Curve A is 715 kPa, therefore the first point on new Curve D is 715 kPa at zero
flow. At 2400 L/min the residual pressure on Curve A is 700 kPa which, with a
deduction of 1800 L/min, will result in another point on new Curve D of
700 kPa at 600 L/min. Continue on the same basis, then draw a line connecting
all the new points plotted. This curve (Curve D) is the characteristic curve of the
minimum town main supply available for design of the sprinkler system. Note
the figures in bold type in columns A and D of Table C6, which indicate the
178
Step 7:
Calculate the static and friction pressure losses incurred between the town main
and the centre-line of the pumps. In this example the total loss at 8000 L/min is
220 kPa, including 80 kPa static pressure. Plot these demand points to produce
Curve E, as shown in Figure C6(B).
Step 8:
At various rates of flow, deduct the pressure losses in Curve E from Curve D to
produce Curve F. This curve represents the minimum town main supply
characteristics available at the centre-line of the pumps (the system datum
point), after deduction of the hydrant flow rate of 1800 L/min.
Step 9:
From Curve C, deduct the losses incurred between the town main and the pumps
(Curve E), to produce Curve G, representing the maximum town main supply
characteristics applicable at the centre-line of the pumps. Note that hydrant flow
provisions must not be deducted from the maximum town main supply
characteristics (see Clause 12.7.1(d)(B)).
Step 10:
Step 11:
Step 12:
Step 13:
Step 14:
Plot these demand points on the graph, and plot the static content of 200 kPa at
zero flow. Draw a line through the two points representing the demand
characteristic curve of each hydraulically most unfavourable design area.
Step 15:
179
Step 16:
Plot all demand points on the graph, including the static pressure content
included in each total pressure demand. Draw a line through the two points
representing the demand characteristic curve of each hydraulically most
favourable design area and extend the lines to intersect the maximum combined
supply curve (Curve K). Curve M in Figure C6(C) represents the demand
characteristics of the design area producing the greatest rate of flow at the
intersection point. The flow generated at the intersection of Curves M and K is
the maximum flow rate of the system, and of the pumps, for the purposes of this
Standard.
Step 17:
To assist in the collation of data and preparation of the graph, it is recommended that data
be entered progressively into a table, as depicted in Table C6.
180
181
182
183
TABLE C6
DATA COLLATION TO ASSIST WITH GRAPH
A
Min
Min.
Min.
Max.
Min.
Min.
Max.
Loss
Max
town
town
combined combined
town
town
town
town
main
town
Flow
main at
Pump
(town
(town
Flow
main
main
main
main No. 1 at main
tapping
rate
main
main
curve
rate
No. 1 at No. 2 at No. 2 at
to
pump No. 2 at
sprinkler
No. 1 +
No. 2 +
tapping tapping tapping
pump sprinkler pump
only
pump)
pump)
only
L/min
kPa
KPa
kPa
kPa
B + 150
-1800
L/min
kPa
KPa
kPa
D0E
CD
kPa
kPa
kPa
F+H
G+H
L/min
730
730
880
715
80
635
800
440
1075
1240
600
728
729
879
700
83
617
796
457
1074
1253
600
1200
725
726
876
682
85
597
791
465
1062
1256
1200
1800
715
720
870
657
90
567
780
457
1024
1237
1800
2400
700
717
867
645
97
548
770
435
983
1205
2400
3000
682
701
851
623
101
522
750
412
934
1162
3000
3600
657
690
840
595
110
485
730
372
857
1102
3600
4200
645
683
833
565
123
442
710
331
773
1041
4200
4800
623
663
813
530
133
397
680
290
687
970
4800
5400
595
653
803
500
148
352
655
230
582
885
5400
6000
565
637
787
465
163
302
624
6000
6600
530
612
762
425
177
248
585
6600
7200
500
597
747
550
7200
7800
465
580
730
515
7800
8000
450
570
720
220
500
8000
Systems with design areas at widely differing elevations present a special problem due to
the disparity between the amounts of static pressure contained within the total pressure
demands of the design areas at the highest and lowest elevations. This disparity results in
the pressure-flow demand of the design area at the lower elevation plotting substantially
lower on the graph, with the demand curve intersecting the maximum supply curve at a
proportionally greater rate of flow compared to low-rise systems.
The effects of these static pressure disparities are illustrated in the following example:
Example
Given:
Multistorey residential building.
Sprinkler flow rate260 L/min, common to the hydraulically most unfavourable design
area on each floor level.
Elevation difference between sprinklers at the top and the bottom of the pressure stage is
37.8 m.
Elevation difference between highest sprinklers in the pressure stage and the centre-line of
pumps is 55 m.
184
Min. static
pressure
519 kPa
Min. static
pressure
600 kPa
Max. static
pressure
680 kPa
Max. static
pressure
719 kPa
Flow
(L/min)
Residual pressure
(kPa)
Flow
(L/min)
Residual pressure
(kPa)
300
467
300
604
600
510
600
593
900
499
900
583
1200
485
1200
571
The water supply authority is unable to provide minimum pressures available for
95% of the time.
The following steps are recommended for graphic representation of the system:
Step 1:
Plot the minimum town main supply characteristics. These are obviously the
pressure-flow characteristics given for Town Main No. 1. Draw Curve A as
depicted in Figure C7(A) and Table C7.
Step 2:
Step 3:
Calculate the pressure loss between the tapping points on the town mains, and
the centre-line of the pumps. For the purposes of this example, at a flow rate
of 1200 L/min, the losses are as follows:
Town Main No.1 to pumps185 kPa including 39 kPa static pressureplot
and draw as Curve C.
Town Main No.2 to pumps140 kPa including 39 kPa static pressureplot
and draw as Curve F.
Plot these demands and draw Curves C and F, as shown in Figure C7(A) and
Table C7.
185
Step 4:
Step 5:
Plot the maximum town main supply characteristics. As the maximum static
pressure available from Town Main No. 2 is 119 kPa higher than the minimum
static pressure for Town Main No. 2, add 119 kPa to each residual pressure
given for Town Main No. 2, then plot and develop Curve E, as shown in
Figure C7(A) and Table C7.
Step 6:
Step 7:
Step 8:
Calculate the highest pressure demand at the pump at the required system flow
demand of 260 L/min. For the purposes of this exercise, the friction loss
between the pump and the top of the rising main is 32 kPa. Add the 250 kPa
demand at the top of the riser, and the static pressure required to lift the water
55 m. The total demand is therefore [250 + 32 + (55 9.8)] = 821 kPa at
260 L/min at the system datum point (the centre-line of the pumps). Plot this
point and the static demand of 539 kPa, and develop demand Curve L. This
curve represents the demand characteristics of the hydraulically most
unfavourable design area of this particular pressure stage.
Step 9:
Establish the minimum pump duty point. At 260 L/min, the minimum town
main pressure at the system datum point is 450 kPa. Deduct this from the total
demand pressure of 821 kPa, leaving a balance of 371 kPa. Add the required
50 kPa margin (see Clause 4.2.11.4), giving a minimum pump duty point of
260 L/min at 421 kPa. For the purposes of this exercise, Curve H in
Figure C7(B) represents the pressure-flow characteristics of the pumps
selected. Note that the selected pumping units will operate to a maximum flow
rate of 450 L/min only.
Step 10:
Add the static and residual pressures of Curves D and H at common flow rates
as necessary to produce the characteristic curve of the minimum combined
(pump and minimum town main), shown as Curve J in Figure C7(B).
Step 11:
Add the static and residual pressures of Curves G and H at common flow rates
as necessary to produce the characteristic curve of the maximum combined
(pump and maximum town main), shown as Curve K in Figure C7(B).
Step 12:
Step 13:
Plot the two points for the hydraulically most favourable design area demand
characteristics (168 kPa at zero flow, and 425 kPa at 270 L/min), and draw
Curve M through these points and intersecting Curves J and K.
Step 14:
Check that the minimum town main supply (Curve D) will continue to supply
at the flow rate generated at the intersection of Curves M and J.
186
Step 15:
Check that the maximum combined supply (pump and maximum town main)
Curve K, intersects with Curve M. In Figure C7(B), Curve K does not extend
sufficiently to intersect with Curve M, due to the characteristic curve of the
pumps (Curve H) terminating at a flow rate of 450 L/min.
Step 16:
Step 17:
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
That the recommended safe working pressure of the pump casing, piping,
pipe fittings, valves, sprinklers, etc., is not less than the pressure
generated at, or near, zero flow when the pumps are operating at
maximum inlet pressure (see also Clause 4.2.1, relating to maximum
permitted pressure at sprinklers).
(g)
That the velocities in the connections between the town mains and the
pumps do not exceed the 4.0 m/s limitation imposed by Clause 4.2.4
when pumps are operating at maximum flow rate (intersection of
Curves M and K in Figure C7(B)).
To assist in the collation of data and preparation of the graph, it is recommended that data
be entered progressively into a table, as depicted in Table C7.
187
188
189
TABLE C7
DATA COLLATION TO ASSIST WITH GRAPH
A
Min.
Min.
town
town
Loss
Min.
main No.
main
town
Flow
1 at
town
No. 1 at main
main at
rate tapping
tapping No. 1 to
pump
sprinkler
sprinkler pump
&
only
hydrant
L/min
kPa
kPa
kPa
kPa
Max.
Max.
Loss
Max.
Min.
comb.
town
town
town
combined
Pump
(town
main
main
main
(town main
main
curve
No. 2 at No. 2 to No. 2 at
No. 1 +
No. 2 +
tapping pump pump
pump)
pump)
kPa
KPa
BC
kPa
kPa
EF
kPa
kPa
D+H
G+H
519
508
39
469
719
39
680
459
928
1139
100
518
504
42
462
718
42
676
464
926
1140
200
517
500
45
455
717
45
672
447
902
1119
300
516
496
48
448
716
50
666
419
867
1085
400
514
492
56
436
715
55
660
377
813
1037
450
340
500
511
488
68
440
712
60
652
600
508
485
80
405
710
65
645
There are only two static pressures to consider where pumps draw from pump suction tanks.
One is the pressure generated when tanks are at maximum capacity, the other when tanks
are at minimum capacity. This makes the process of graphical representation less complex,
however, the calculation of minimum pump suction pipe diameters is a little more
complicated.
Example
Given:
High Hazard class system.
Two full capacity tanks are provided, each with the maximum effective water level 4.3 m
above the centre-line of the pumps.
The system datum point is the centre-line of the pumps.
The centre-line of the pumps is 918 mm above the minimum effective water level in the
tanks.
The pump suction and the pump discharge manifolds are arranged symmetrically, so that
pump inlet and outlet pressures are the same, whichever of the two pumps is operating.
Calculated demands for the hydraulically most unfavourable design areas are as follows:
5600 L/min at 890 kPa including 180 kPa static pressure.
5800 L/min at 870 kPa including 165 kPa static pressure.
Calculated demands for the hydraulically most favourable design areas are as follows:
(i)
(ii)
190
Step 1:
The pressure losses in the pump suction pipework must be deducted from the
pump performance characteristics to show the true supply pressures at the
system datum point when stored water is at the low water level. For the purposes
of this example, the friction loss in the pump suction pipework, at a flow rate of
5600 L/min, is 16 kPa, based on the pump and tank furthest apart.
As the centre-line of the pumps is 918 mm above the minimum effective water
level, a static pressure loss of 9 kPa also applies, so the total demand at
5600 L/min is 26 kPa. Plot these two points on the graph, and draw Curve A (see
Figure C8). Note that the pressure scale has been magnified on the right side of
the graph to facilitate more accurate readings from Curve A. Read the pressures
at various rates of flow and enter them into a table (see column A in Table C8).
Step 2:
Select pumps on the basis that 26 kPa will be deducted from the pump curve to
compensate for the loss in the suction piping, and a 50 kPa pressure margin is
required to satisfy the requirements of Clause 4.2.11.4. Therefore the selected
pump curve must have a residual pressure of at least 966 kPa (890 + 76) at the
calculated flow rate of 5600 L/min. For the purposes of this exercise, pumps are
selected with pressure-flow characteristics as represented by Curve B in
Figure C8, and column B in Table C8.
Step 3:
Deduct the losses incurred in the suction pipework (Curve A) from the pump
characteristics (Curve B) at various flow rates, to produce Curve C, representing
the minimum supply characteristics at the system datum point. This is facilitated
by the development of column C in Table C8.
Step 4:
Step 5:
Plot the demand points for the hydraulically most unfavourable design areas and
check to ensure that there is a pressure margin of at least 50 kPa between each
demand point and Curve C.
Step 6:
Plot the demand points for the hydraulically most favourable design areas and
draw the demand curves (see Curves E and F in Figure C8). Note that Curve F
intersects Curve D at a flow rate of 8200 L/min. This is the maximum flow rate
of the pumps and of the system for the purposes of this Standard (see
Clause 12.9.2.2).
Step 7:
(b)
(c)
191
Step 8:
(d)
(e)
This step is necessary to check that the suction piping complies with the
requirements of Clause 4.2.11.3 and AS 2941. Note that AS 2941 requires
suction piping to be sized such that, with pumps operating at maximum flow
rate (as defined in Step 6 above), the net positive suction head available
(NPSHA) at the pump inlet, should be at least 1.0 m in excess of the net positive
suction head required (NPSHR). AS 2941 also states that NPSHA should be
reduced by 0.1 m for each 100 m above sea level at the pump centre-line.
NPSHR is shown on the manufacturers pump performance characteristic graph,
and rises as flow rates increase. For the purposes of this exercise, the NPSHR
for the selected pumps is 5.6 m at the maximum flow rate of 8200 L/min, and
the centre-line of the pumps is 50 m above sea level. Reading from Curve A in
Figure C8, the friction loss in the suction pipe is 33 kPa (42 9), or 3.367 m
head.
Ps
= suction head measured from the low water level x (see Clause 4.2.9.2) to
the pump centre-line (negative values apply for suction lift).
Pa
192
193
TABLE C8
DATA COLLATION TO ASSIST WITH GRAPH
With original suction pipe
Flow
rate
Loss in
suction
Pump
curve
Min.
supply
Max.
supply
L/min
kPa
kPa
kPa
kPa
BA
C + 42
Flow
rate
Loss in
suction
Pump
curve
Min.
supply
Max.
supply
L/min
kPa
kPa
kPa
kPa
BA
C + 42
980
971
1013
980
971
1013
1200
10
995
985
1027
1200
10
995
985
1027
2400
12
1006
994
1036
2400
11
1006
995
1037
3600
16
1006
990
1032
3600
14
1006
992
1034
4800
22
990
968
1010
4800
18
990
972
1014
5600
26
975
949
991
5600
21
975
954
996
6000
27
965
938
980
6000
22
965
943
985
7200
36
936
900
942
7200
28
936
908
950
8400
44
897
853
895
8400
34
897
863
905