Automatic sprinkler systems deluge system

If an ethyl ether fire occurs, carbon dioxide, carbon tetrachloride, and dry chemical fire extinguishers meeting National Eire Prevention Association Code 1 and 2 requirements may be used successhiUy (23). Water may also be effectively appHed (see Plant safety). Hose streams played into open tanks of burning ethyl ether serve only to scatter the Hquid and spread the fire. However, ether fires may be extinguished by a high pressure water spray that cools the burning surface and smothers the fire. Automatic sprinklers and deluge systems are also effective. 

Measures to reduce the impact of fire include active and passive systems. Active systems include automatic sprinkler, water deluge, water mist, gaseous agent, dry chemical, foam, and standpipe handle systems. Passive protection is provided by fire resistive construction, including spray-applied or cementitious fireproofing of steel, concrete/masonry construction, and water-filled steel columns. Chapter 7 provides details on the design of fire protection systems. 

Containment systems are also used in conjunction with an automatic foam-water sprinkler/deluge system where rapid fire extinguishment is expected. 

After 11 30 a.m. Automatic deluge sprinkler system found to be severely damaged by fire/explosions and is now valved into OFF position. Three fixed fire monitors directed on fire at full flow. Two hose streams from hydrants directed on fire also. 

Deluge systems—are similar to very large sprinkler systems and are used to extinguish fires and suppress toxic releases. Deluge systems are expensive and are used primarily on processes concerned with extremely hazardous chemicals, such hydrofluoric acid. Most are activated automatically. 

The system comprises a series of water mains, usually overhead, to which sprinkler heads are fitted at intervals. As heat from the fire reaches them individual sprinkler heads operate at predetermined temperatures releasing a deluge of water over the fire below. The advantages of sprinkler systems are, that as only the heads in the vicinity of the fire operate, water damage is reduced to a minimum, they are automatic in operation, they are not impaired by smoke or fumes and are not hindered by the blockage of access routes. 

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