-
ABCB Reference Document
AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
September 2008
This document includes material (including illustrations) based
on Australian Standards AS 2118.1-1999 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) The principles for calculations in Section 12 remain
unchanged; however, the determination of the design area has been
simplified. An appendix has been provided to assist the designer
with hydraulic calculations in preparing the graphical
representation of supply and demand curves and includes worked
examples.
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.
-
This Standard incorporates commentary on some of the clauses.
The commentary directly follows the relevant clause, is designated
by C preceding the clause number and is printed in italics in a
panel. The commentary is for information only and does not need to
be followed for compliance with the Standard.
-
CONTENTS
PREFACE 2
FOREWORD 14
SECTION 1 SCOPE AND GENERAL 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
2.1 TYPES OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS AND AREA LIMITATIONS
.................................. 23 2.1.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
23 2.1.2 Standard sprinkler
system..............................................................................................
23 2.1.3 Special sprinkler
systems...............................................................................................
27
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2.1.4 Sprinkler compatibility
..................................................................................................
29
SECTION 3 EXTENT OF PROTECTION AND SYSTEM MONITORING 30
3.1 PROTECTION AGAINST EXPOSURE HAZARDS
......................................................... 30 3.1.1
General
..........................................................................................................................
30 3.1.2 Sprinklers
......................................................................................................................
30 3.1.3 Shielding
.......................................................................................................................
30 3.1.4 Sprinkler spacing and
location.......................................................................................
30 3.1.5 Piping
............................................................................................................................
35 3.1.6 Performance
..................................................................................................................
35 3.1.7 Water supply
.................................................................................................................
35
3.2 ALARM SIGNALLING
.....................................................................................................
35 3.2.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
35 3.2.2 Integrity and marking requirementsElectrical
wiring................................................. 35
3.3 SYSTEM COMPONENT FAULT
MONITORING............................................................
35 3.3.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
35 3.3.2 Fault monitoring devices
...............................................................................................
35 3.3.3 Systems to be
monitored................................................................................................
36 3.3.4 Components to be
monitored.........................................................................................
36 3.3.5
Installation.....................................................................................................................
36
SECTION 4 WATER SUPPLIES 37
4.1 SUPPLY
.............................................................................................................................
37 4.1.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
37 4.1.2 Reliable water supply
....................................................................................................
37 4.1.3 Acceptable sources of water
supply...............................................................................
37
4.2 DUAL WATER
SUPPLIES................................................................................................
37 4.2.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
37 4.2.2 Acceptable
arrangements...............................................................................................
38
4.3 GENERAL WATER SUPPLY
PROVISIONS....................................................................
40 4.3.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
40 4.3.2 Town main water supply
...............................................................................................
40 4.3.3 Private system water supply
..........................................................................................
41 4.3.4 Pump suction tank water supply
....................................................................................
42 4.3.5 Supply from natural
source............................................................................................
45 4.3.6 Gravity tank water
supply..............................................................................................
48 4.3.7 Pressure tank water supply
............................................................................................
49 4.3.8 Pump system design and installation
.............................................................................
50 4.3.9 Pumpsets
.......................................................................................................................
54
4.4 PROVING OF WATER SUPPLIES
...................................................................................
55
4.5 CONNECTIONS FOR OTHER
SERVICES.......................................................................
55 4.5.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
55 4.5.2 Combined sprinkler and hydrant water
supply...............................................................
55 4.5.3 Fire hose reel connections
.............................................................................................
56 4.5.4 Fire brigade booster
connection.....................................................................................
57
SECTION 5 SPACING AND LOCATION OF SPRINKLERS 58
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5.1 SPACING OF
SPRINKLERS.............................................................................................
58 5.1.1 Standard sprinkler
spacing.............................................................................................
58 5.1.2 Special sprinkler spacing
...............................................................................................
58 5.1.3 Staggered
spacing..........................................................................................................
58
5.2 MINIMUM DISTANCE BETWEEN SPRINKLERS
......................................................... 58
5.3 LOCATION OF SPRINKLERS (OTHER THAN SIDEWALL SPRINKLERS)
................ 58 5.3.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
58 5.3.2 Walls and
partitions.......................................................................................................
58 5.3.3 Ceilings, roofs and underside of stairs
...........................................................................
60
5.4 SPACING AND LOCATION OF SIDEWALL
SPRINKLERS.......................................... 61 5.4.1
General
..........................................................................................................................
61 5.4.2 Spacing of special sidewall sprinklers
...........................................................................
61 5.4.3 Maximum spacing of sidewall sprinklers
......................................................................
61 5.4.4 Distance between rows of sprinklers
.............................................................................
61
5.5 OBSTRUCTIONS TO SPRINKLER
DISCHARGE...........................................................
61 5.5.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
61 5.5.2 Standard upright and pendent
sprinklers........................................................................
61 5.5.3 Standard sidewall sprinklers
..........................................................................................
63 5.5.4 Standard upright and pendent sprinklers near
columns.................................................. 65 5.5.5
Standard sidewall sprinklers near columns
....................................................................
66 5.5.6 Roof
trusses...................................................................................................................
66 5.5.7 Clear space below sprinklers
.........................................................................................
67 5.5.8 Obstructions in clear space
............................................................................................
67 5.5.9 Obstructions under sprinklers
........................................................................................
67
5.6 CONCEALED
SPACES.....................................................................................................
68 5.6.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
68 5.6.2 Protection criteria
..........................................................................................................
69 5.6.3 Hydraulic designconcealed
spaces.............................................................................
69 5.6.4 Deformable ceilings
......................................................................................................
69
5.7 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS (SUPPLEMENTARY PROTECTION) FOR
REQUIRED SPRINKLER SYSTEMS.
.........................................................................................................
69
5.7.1 Machinery pits and production
lines..............................................................................
69 5.7.2 Hoists, lift shafts, building services shafts and enclosed
chutes..................................... 69 5.7.3 Elevators,
rope or strap races, exhaust ducts, gearing boxes and dust
receivers............. 70 5.7.4 Corn, rice, provender and oil mills
................................................................................
70 5.7.5 Bins and silos
................................................................................................................
71 5.7.6 Escalators
......................................................................................................................
71 5.7.7
Canopies........................................................................................................................
71 5.7.8 Roof overhang
...............................................................................................................
71 5.7.9 Exterior docks and
platforms.........................................................................................
71 5.7.10 Covered balconies
.......................................................................................................
71 5.7.11 Enclosed paint lines, drying ovens, drying enclosures
................................................. 71 5.7.12 Spray
booths................................................................................................................
72 5.7.13 Oil and flammable liquid hazards
................................................................................
72 5.7.14 Commercial type cooking equipment and associated
ventilation systems.................... 72 5.7.15 Air-handling
plant
.......................................................................................................
75 5.7.16 Computer and other electronic equipment areas
.......................................................... 75
5.7.17 Cupboards and
wardrobes............................................................................................
75 5.7.18 Film and television production studios
........................................................................
75
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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
7.1 PIPE AND PIPE FITTINGS
...............................................................................................
82
7.2 HYDRAULIC TEST PRESSURE
......................................................................................
82
7.3 PIPING IN NON-SPRINKLER-PROTECTED
BUILDINGS............................................. 82
7.4 DRAINAGE
.......................................................................................................................
82 7.4.1 Wet system piping
.........................................................................................................
82 7.4.2 Dry or alternate wet and dry system piping
...................................................................
82
7.5 FLEXIBLE TUBE ASSEMBLIES
.....................................................................................
82
7.6 ORIFICE PLATES
.............................................................................................................
83
7.7 SUPPORT OF SPRINKLER PIPING
.................................................................................
83 7.7.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
83 7.7.2 Design
...........................................................................................................................
83 7.7.3 Corrosion protection of pipe
supports............................................................................
83 7.7.4 Requirements for pipe support components (see Figures
7.7.8.1(A) and (B))................ 84 7.7.5 Fixing of pipe
supports..................................................................................................
85 7.7.6 Spacing of supports
.......................................................................................................
86 7.7.7 Location of supports
......................................................................................................
87 7.7.8 Verification of design
....................................................................................................
88
7.8 INSTALLATIONGENERAL
.........................................................................................
91
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7.8.1 Pipe and pipe fitting specifications
................................................................................
91 7.8.2 Welding of
piping..........................................................................................................
92 7.8.3 Hydrostatic pressure
test................................................................................................
92 7.8.4 Pneumatic leak test
........................................................................................................
92 7.8.5 Embedding of piping
.....................................................................................................
92 7.8.6 Corrosion protection of
piping.......................................................................................
92 7.8.7 Protection of piping against mechanical damage
........................................................... 92
7.8.8 Facilities for flushing
piping..........................................................................................
92 7.8.9 Prohibited use of
piping.................................................................................................
92 7.8.10 Pipe
sizes.....................................................................................................................
93 7.8.11 Spacing of brackets and clips
......................................................................................
93
7.9 INSTALLATIONSTEEL PIPING
..................................................................................
93 7.9.1 Pipe and pipe fitting specifications
................................................................................
93 7.9.2
Pipes..............................................................................................................................
93 7.9.3 Pipe jointing
..................................................................................................................
93
7.10 INSTALLATIONLIGHT WALL STEEL
PIPING........................................................ 94
7.10.1 Pipe and pipe fitting specifications
..............................................................................
94 7.10.2
Pipes............................................................................................................................
94 7.10.3 Pipe jointing
................................................................................................................
94
7.11 INSTALLATIONCOPPER PIPING
.............................................................................
94 7.11.1 General
........................................................................................................................
94 7.11.2
Pipes............................................................................................................................
94 7.11.3 Pipe jointing
................................................................................................................
95 7.11.4 Pipe
bending................................................................................................................
95
7.12 INSTALLATIONPLASTIC PIPING
............................................................................
95 7.12.1 Pipe and pipe fitting specifications
..............................................................................
95 7.12.2 Pipe and fittingsJointing
..........................................................................................
96 7.12.3 Corrosion protection of
piping.....................................................................................
96
SECTION 8 VALVES AND ANCILLARY EQUIPMENT 97
8.1 CONTROL
ASSEMBLIES.................................................................................................
97 8.1.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
97 8.1.2 Designated site and building entry points
......................................................................
97
8.2 STOP
VALVES..................................................................................................................
97 8.2.1 General
..........................................................................................................................
97 8.2.2 Main stop
valves............................................................................................................
98 8.2.3 Stop valves controlling water
supplies...........................................................................
98 8.2.4 Subsidiary stop valves
...................................................................................................
98
8.3 BLOCK PLAN
...................................................................................................................
98
8.4 SPRINKLER STOP VALVE INSIDE
PLATE.................................................................
99
8.5 EMERGENCY
INSTRUCTIONS.....................................................................................
100
8.6 PRESSURE GAUGE
SCHEDULE...................................................................................
100
8.7 SYSTEM INTERFACE
DIAGRAM.................................................................................
102
8.8 STOP, DRAIN AND TEST VALVES, AND ALARM
COCKS....................................... 102
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8.9 NON-RETURN (BACK-PRESSURE) VALVES
.............................................................
102
8.10 ALARM VALVES
.........................................................................................................
103 8.10.1
Wet............................................................................................................................
103 8.10.2 Dry
............................................................................................................................
103 8.10.3 Composite alarm
valves.............................................................................................
103 8.10.4 Accelerators or exhausters for alarm valves (dry
system).......................................... 103 8.10.5
Identification of control assemblies and water motor alarms
..................................... 103
8.11 PRESSURE-REDUCING VALVE STATIONS
.............................................................
103
8.12 DELUGE AND PRE-ACTION VALVES
......................................................................
104 8.12.1 Deluge valves
............................................................................................................
104 8.12.2 Pre-action valves
.......................................................................................................
104
8.13 ALARM DEVICES
........................................................................................................
104 8.13.1 General
......................................................................................................................
104 8.13.2 Prevention of false alarms
.........................................................................................
104 8.13.3 Water motor alarms
...................................................................................................
105 8.13.4 Fire alarm
signal........................................................................................................
106 8.13.5 System interface alarm signal
....................................................................................
106 8.13.6 Lock-open valve
........................................................................................................
106 8.13.7 Testing of alarm
devices............................................................................................
106
8.14 REMOTE TEST VALVES
.............................................................................................
106
8.15 PRESSURE
GAUGES....................................................................................................
107
SECTION 9 LIGHT HAZARD CLASS SYSTEMS 109
9.1
GENERAL........................................................................................................................
109
9.2 DESIGN
DATA................................................................................................................
109
9.3 WATER SUPPLY
............................................................................................................
109 9.3.1 Flow and pressure requirements
..................................................................................
109 9.3.2 Water storage capacity
................................................................................................
109 9.3.3 Additional storage capacity
.........................................................................................
110 9.3.4 Pump suction
tanks......................................................................................................
110 9.3.5 Pressure
tanks..............................................................................................................
110 9.3.6 Pumpsets
.....................................................................................................................
110 9.3.7 Proving of water supplies
............................................................................................
110
9.4 SPRINKLERS
..................................................................................................................
110 9.4.1 Size and type
...............................................................................................................
110 9.4.2 Maximum area coverage per
sprinkler.........................................................................
110 9.4.3 Reduced
coverage........................................................................................................
110 9.4.4 Maximum spacing
.......................................................................................................
111 9.4.5 Special sprinklers
........................................................................................................
111
9.5 PIPING
.............................................................................................................................
111 9.5.1 Pipe types
....................................................................................................................
111 9.5.2 Pipe
sizes.....................................................................................................................
111 9.5.3 Hydraulic calculations
.................................................................................................
111 9.5.4 Concealed
spaces.........................................................................................................
111
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SECTION 10 ORDINARY HAZARD CLASS SYSTEMS 112
10.1
GENERAL......................................................................................................................
112
10.2 DESIGN
DATA..............................................................................................................
112 10.2.1 General
......................................................................................................................
112 10.2.2 Sprinklers under flat roofs and ceilings
.....................................................................
112 10.2.3 Sprinklers under sloping roofs and in bays
................................................................
112
10.3 WATER SUPPLY
..........................................................................................................
113 10.3.1 Flow and pressure requirements
................................................................................
113 10.3.2 Water storage capacity
..............................................................................................
113 10.3.3 Additional storage capacity
.......................................................................................
113 10.3.4 Pump suction
tanks....................................................................................................
113 10.3.5 Pressure
tanks............................................................................................................
114 10.3.6 Pumpsets
...................................................................................................................
114 10.3.7 Proving of water supplies
..........................................................................................
114
10.4 SPRINKLERS
................................................................................................................
114 10.4.1 Size and type
.............................................................................................................
114 10.4.2 Maximum area coverage per
sprinkler.......................................................................
114 10.4.3 Reduced
coverage......................................................................................................
114 10.4.4 Maximum spacing
.....................................................................................................
114 10.4.5 Maximum distance from walls and partitions (see also
Clause 5.3.2) ........................ 115 10.4.6 Special
sprinklers
......................................................................................................
115
10.5 PIPING
...........................................................................................................................
115 10.5.1 Pipe types
..................................................................................................................
115 10.5.2 Pipe
sizes...................................................................................................................
115 10.5.3 Hydraulic calculations
...............................................................................................
115 10.5.4 Concealed
spaces.......................................................................................................
115
SECTION 11 HIGH HAZARD CLASS SYSTEMS 116
11.1 DESIGN
DATA..............................................................................................................
116 11.1.1 General
......................................................................................................................
116 11.1.2 Process risks
..............................................................................................................
116 11.1.3 High piled storage risks
.............................................................................................
116 11.1.4 Type of system
..........................................................................................................
122
11.2 WATER SUPPLIES
.......................................................................................................
127 11.2.1 Pressure and flow requirements
.................................................................................
127 11.2.2 Minimum capacity of water supplies
.........................................................................
128 11.2.3
Pumps........................................................................................................................
130 11.2.4 Proving of water supplies
..........................................................................................
130
11.3 SPACING OF STANDARD
SPRINKLERS...................................................................
130 11.3.1 Maximum area coverage per
sprinkler.......................................................................
130 11.3.2 Maximum distance between sprinklers on range pipes and
between adjacent rows of
sprinklers
.................................................................................................................
130 11.3.3 Maximum distance from walls and partitions
............................................................
130
11.4 SYSTEM COMPONENTS
.............................................................................................
130 11.4.1 Sprinklers
..................................................................................................................
130 11.4.2 Piping
........................................................................................................................
131
-
SECTION 12 HYDRAULIC CALCULATION OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS 140
12.1
GENERAL......................................................................................................................
140
12.2 DESIGN AREAS (ASSUMED AREAS OF OPERATION)
........................................... 140
12.3 SPRINKLERS IN SIMULTANEOUS OPERATION
..................................................... 141
12.4 SPRINKLER DISCHARGE FLOW RATES
..................................................................
141 12.4.1 Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard class
systems...................................................... 141
12.4.2 High Hazard class systems
........................................................................................
141
12.5 POSITION OF DESIGN AREAS
...................................................................................
142 12.5.1 Hydraulically most unfavourable areas of
operation.................................................. 142
12.5.2 Hydraulically most favourable areas of operation
.................................................. 147
12.6 SHAPE OF DESIGN
AREAS.........................................................................................
147 12.6.1 Hydraulically most unfavourable areas of
operation.................................................. 147
12.6.2 Hydraulically most favourable areas of
operation......................................................
148
12.7 SUPPLY-DEMAND
GRAPH.........................................................................................
149 12.7.1 General
......................................................................................................................
149 12.7.2 Supply characteristics
................................................................................................
149 12.7.3 Demand
characteristics..............................................................................................
149
12.8 WATER SUPPLIES
.......................................................................................................
150
12.9 PUMPSETS
....................................................................................................................
150 12.9.1 General
......................................................................................................................
150 12.9.2 Maximum flow rate of the system (Qmax.)
..................................................................
150
12.10 CALCULATION OF PRESSURE LOSS IN PIPES
..................................................... 150
12.11 PRESSURE
LOSSES....................................................................................................
153 12.11.1 Fittings and
valves...................................................................................................
153 12.11.2 Dry pendent (or upright) sprinklers
.........................................................................
153
12.12 ACCURACY OF
CALCULATIONS............................................................................
153
12.13 MINIMUM SPRINKLER DISCHARGE PRESSURE (HIGH HAZARD
ONLY)........ 153
12.14 MINIMUM PIPE
SIZES...............................................................................................
154
12.15 VELOCITY LIMITATION
..........................................................................................
154
12.16 VELOCITY PRESSURE
..............................................................................................
154
12.17 IDENTIFICATION OF FULLY HYDRAULICALLY CALCULATED
SYSTEMS............. 154
APPENDIX A ORIFICE PLATES 156
A1
GENERAL......................................................................................................................
156
A2
REQUIREMENTS..........................................................................................................
156
A3 NOTES ON THE USE OF TABLES A1 AND A2
......................................................... 156
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APPENDIX B WATER SUPPLY ARRANGEMENTS 159
APPENDIX C GRAPHIC REPRESENTATION OF HYDRAULIC CHARACTERISTICS
163
C1
GENERAL......................................................................................................................
163
C2 THE SUPPLY-DEMAND
GRAPH.................................................................................
163
C3 STATIC PRESSURE AND DEMAND
CURVES...........................................................
164
C4 SINGLE TOWN MAIN
SUPPLY...................................................................................
165
C5 PUMPS DRAWING DIRECT FROM A SINGLE TOWN MAIN
SUPPLY................... 168
C6 DUAL TOWN MAIN
SUPPLIES...................................................................................
176
C7 HIGH-RISE SYSTEMS WITH BOOSTED TOWN MAIN
SUPPLIES.......................... 183
C8 PUMPS DRAWING FROM PUMP SUCTION TANKS
................................................ 189
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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.
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15
S E C T I O N 1 S C O P E A N D G E N E R A L
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 Steel tubes and tubulars for ordinary service
1281 Cement mortar lining of steel pipes and fittings
1349 Bourdon tube pressure and vacuum gauges
1432 Copper tubes for plumbing, gasfitting and drainage
applications
1516 The cement mortar lining of pipelines in situ
1579 Arc-welded steel pipes and fittings for water and
waste-water
1650 Galvanized coatings on ferrous articles Metric Units
1670 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom systemsSystem
design, installation and commissioning
1670.1 Part 1: Fire
1674.1 Safety in Welding and Allied Processes Part 1 Fire
Precautions
1724 Cast grey iron pressure pipes and fittings with bolted
gland joints
1735 Lifts, escalators and moving walks
1834 Material for soldering Part 1 Solder Alloys
1873 Powder-actuated (PA) hand-held fastening tools
2118 Automatic fire sprinkler systems 2118.1 Part 1: General
requirements Part 2 Not referenced in 06 code except in approval
section 2118.3 Part 3: Deluge 2118.6 Part 6: Combined sprinkler and
hydrant
2201 Intruder alarm systems 2201.2 Part 2: Monitoring centres
2419.1 Part 1: Fire hydrant installations - System design,
installation and
commissioning
2544 Grey iron pressure fittings
2941 Fixed fire protection installationsPumpset systems
3688 Water supplyMetallic fittings and end connectors
4041 Pressure piping
4118 Fire sprinkler systems 4118.1.1 Part 1.1:
ComponentsSprinklers and sprayers 4118.1.2 Part 1.2:
ComponentsAlarm valves (wet) 4118.1.3 Part 1.3: ComponentsWater
motor alarms
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16
4118.1.4 Part 1.4: ComponentsValve monitors 4118.1.5 Part 1.5:
ComponentsDeluge and pre-action valves 4118.1.6 Part 1.6:
ComponentsStop valves and non-return valves 4118.1.7 Part 1.7:
ComponentsAlarm valves (dry) 4118.1.8 Part 1.8:
ComponentsPressure-reducing valves 4118.2.1 Part 2.1:
PipingGeneral
4428 Fire detection, warning, control and intercom
systemsControl and indicating equipment
4428.1 Part 1: Fire 4428.6 Part 6: Alarm signalling
equipment
4254 Ductwork for air-handling systems in buildings AS/NZS
1167.1 Welding and Brazing Filler Metals Part 1 Filler metal for
brazing and braze welding
1668.1 Part 1 The use of ventilation and airconditioning in
buildingsFire and smoke control in multi-compartment buildings
3000 Electrical installations (known as the Australian/New
Zealand Wiring Rules)
3013 Electrical installationsClassification of the fire and
mechanical performance of wiring systems.
3500 Plumbing and drainage 3500.1 Part 1: Water services
3500.1.2 Part 1.2: Water supplyAcceptable solutions
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
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17
from the ceiling to the top of the opening. Not to be confused
with fire or smoke compartment as defined in the BCA.
1.3.8 Design area
An area containing the maximum number of sprinklers likely to
operate when involved in a fire.
1.3.9 Design density
The minimum density of discharge of water in millimetres per
minute (mm/min) for which a sprinkler installation is designed. It
is determined by the discharge of the group of sprinklers in the
design area, in litres per minute (L/min), divided by the area
covered by that group in square metres (m2). Also known as Design
density of discharge.
1.3.10 Designated building entry point (DBEP)
An entry point to a building that provides firefighters with
information as to the location of the fire alarm.
1.3.11 Designated site entry point (DSEP)
An entry point to a site that provides firefighters with
information as to the location of the building from which the fire
alarm originated.
1.3.12 Effective height
As defined within the Building Code of Australia.
1.3.13 Fire and draft stop
A partition or bulkhead, extending from end to end and top to
bottom of a concealed space, installed to delay the spread of fire
and constructed from imperforate materials that are non-shatterable
under fire conditions.
NOTES: 1 Examples of acceptable fire and draught stops include
the following:
(a) Structural features such as a reinforced beam or steel joist
extending to or through the ceiling, and a brick wall extended up
through the ceiling to the floor above.
(b) A purpose-built partition mounted on wood or steel
framework, constructed of 10 mm gypsum board, 0.6 mm sheet steel or
7 mm high-density tempered hardboard.
2 They have the following acceptable apertures: (a) Openings for
the passage of individual pipes, conduits and airconditioning
ducts,
provided that such openings are reasonably close fitting or
sealed with fire resistant sealant.
(b) Openings not exceeding 2 m in width for the passage of
groups of pipes, conduits and airconditioning ducts, protected by a
cut-off sprinkler or sprinklers as required to provide full
protection to such openings.
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
PQK =
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18
where
Q = Flow, L/min
P = 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 (Qmax.)
The maximum flow rate of the system (Qmax.) 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 Required duration of operation
The minimum period of operation of an automatic fire sprinkler
system as required by Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions of the BCA
1.3.26 Special sprinkler
A listed sprinkler other than those specified in Table 1.1 of AS
4118.1.1. (See also Clause 6.2.2.) Special sprinklers include the
following:
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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) Enhanced protection extended coverage (EPEC) A type of fast
response sprinkler with enhanced fire control characteristics for
extended coverage in Ordinary Hazard Group 3 applications.
C1.3.26 The difference between special sprinklers and standard
sprinklers, in simple terms, can best be described as follows:
(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
to a K factor (a constant in the formulaP
QK = , see Clause 1.4.14).
1.3.27 Special sprinkler system
A system utilizing either in total, or in part, sprinkler types
other than those listed in AS 4118.1.1. (See also Clauses 2.1.3 and
6.2.2.)
1.3.28 Sprayer
Special purpose nozzle for use in water spray systems with
capabilities of extinguishing, containing or controlling fires
involving hazards such as flammable liquids.
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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) Deluge system A system of open sprinklers controlled by a
quick-opening valve, (deluge valve) (see Clause 8.12.1) which is
operated by a system of listed heat detectors or sprinklers
installed in the same areas as the open sprinklers (see AS
2118.3).
(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
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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.
(d) Recessed sprinkler A sprinkler comprising a spray sprinkler
provided with a separate escutcheon housing, usually two-piece
adjustable, where part of the sprinkler yoke and heat-responsive
element are mounted within the recessed housing.
NOTE: Escutcheon housings are used with the spray sprinkler to
ensure that the response time of the heat-responsive element is not
unduly impeded and that the discharge spray pattern is not
obstructed.
(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.
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22
NOTE: A dry upright sprinkler is designed for use in wet systems
for the protection of concealed spaces subject to freezing.
(i) Fast-response sprinkler A sprinkler that has a high level of
thermal sensitivity, which enables it to respond at an early stage
of fire development and belongs to the fast-response category (see
AS 4118.1.1).
(j) Enlarged orifice sprinkler A sprinkler having a nominal 20
mm diameter orifice and a nominal 15 mm shank fitted with a metal
rod extension (pintle), which is used for upgrading the density
requirements of existing ordinary hazard installations (see AS
4118.1.1).
(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).
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23
S E C T I O N 2 S P R I N K L E R S Y S T E M D E S I G N D A T
A
2.1 TYPES OF SPRINKLER SYSTEMS AND AREA LIMITATIONS
2.1.1 General
Sprinkler systems are either
(a) standard sprinkler systems (see Clause 1.3.31 ); or
(b) special sprinkler systems (see Clause 1.3.27).
2.1.2 Standard sprinkler system
2.1.2.1 General requirements
A standard sprinkler system shall be arranged to operate as one
or a combination of the following:
(a) Wet system.
(b) Alternate wet and dry system.
(c) Dry system.
(d) Pre-action system.
(e) Recycling pre-action system.
(f) Deluge system.
(g) Tail-end system.
Standard sprinkler systems shall comply with the requirements
set out in Clauses 2.1.2.2 to 2.1.2.9, as applicable.
2.1.2.2 Wet systems
Wet systems shall not be installed in premises where there is
danger, at any time, of the water in the pipes freezing or where
the lowest average ambient temperature is less than 4C.
Wet systems shall be so designed that the maximum floor area,
excluding concealed spaces but including mezzanine floor areas,
controlled by one control assembly, including tail-end extensions
(see Clause 2.1.2.8) does not exceed the following:
(a) 9000 m2 for Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard
installations.
(b) 8000 m2 for High Hazard process occupancy installations
(c) 8000 m2 for High Hazard storage occupancy installations
provided the total area of storage does not exceed 1000 m 2 and
there is ceiling or roof protection only;
(d) 6000 m2 for High Hazard storage risk installations where the
total area of storage exceeds 1000 m2 and there is ceiling or roof
protection only;
(e) 8000 m2 for High Hazard storage occupancy installations
provided the total area of storage has intermediate level
sprinklers; or
(f) 4000 m2 for single installations controlling intermediate
level sprinklers in storage racks, made up of the floor area
occupied by the racks and the aisles combined.
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.
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24
2.1.2.3 Alternate wet and dry systems (see Clause 1.3.29)
An alternate wet and dry sprinkler system shall incorporate
either a composite alarm valve (see Clause 8.10.3) or a combination
set comprising an alarm valve (wet) and an alarm valve (dry) (see
Clauses 8.10.1 and 8.10.2). During winter months, the installation
piping above the composite alarm valve, or alarm valve (dry) shall
be charged with air and the remainder of the system, below the
valve, shall be charged with water and, at other times, the system
shall operate as a wet system as described in Clause 2.1.2.2.
Sprinklers in alternate wet and dry systems shall be installed
in the upright position, above the line of pipe. An exception is
allowed where listed dry pendent sprinklers (see Clause 1.3.30) are
installed or where sprinklers have an anti-freezing device
incorporated therein.
Piping shall be arranged with slope for drainage (see Clause
7.4).
Alternate wet and dry systems shall be so designed that the
maximum floor area, including mezzanine floor areas, controlled by
one control assembly, including tail-end extensions (see Clauses
2.1.2.8 and 2.1.2.9), does not exceed the following:
(a) Where an accelerator or exhauster is used
(i) 3700 m2 for Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard systems;
and
(ii) 2100 m2 for High Hazard systems.
(b) Where an accelerator or exhauster is not used
(i) 2500 m2 for Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard systems;
and
(ii) 1400 m2 for High Hazard systems.
2.1.2.4 Dry systems (see Clause 1.3.29)
A dry sprinkler system shall be permanently charged with air or
inert gas under pressure above the alarm valve (dry) and with water
below the valve.
Dry systems permit sprinklers to be installed in buildings where
the temperature conditions are maintained close to or below
freezing, such as in cool stores, or fur vaults, or where the
temperature is maintained above 70C, such as in drying ovens (see
Clause 5.6.14).,
The floor area controlled by one control assembly in a dry
system shall not exceed that prescribed in Clause 2.1.2.3 for
alternate wet and dry systems.
Piping shall be arranged with slope for drainage (see Clause
7.4). Standard sprinklers shall only be installed in the upright
position above the line of the pipe.
2.1.2.5 Pre-action systems (see Clause 1.3.29)
Pre-action systems may remain dry with atmospheric air above the
alarm valve when they protect areas not exceeding 200 m2 otherwise
they shall be permanently charged with air or inert gas under
pressure. Where the systems are pressurized above the alarm valve,
they shall be monitored so that an alarm is given on a reduction of
pressure.
The pre-action alarm valve shall be operated as follows:
(a) For a single interlock pre-action configurationsolely by the
system of heat or smoke detectors to allow the sprinkler piping to
become charged with water prior to or following the operation of a
sprinkler.
(b) For a double interlock pre-action configurationby both the
system of detectors and the monitored low-pressure alarm resulting
from the operation of a sprinkler.
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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.
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(c) Suitable drainage shall be provided.
(d) Tail-end systems connected to dry and alternate wet and dry
installations shall be limited to dry systems.
2.1.2.9 Tail-end anti-freezing solution systems
Tail-end anti-freezing solution systems shall only be connected
to wet pipe installations.
In addition to the requirements of Clause 2.1.2.8, the following
requirements shall apply for tail-end systems incorporating
anti-freezing solutions:
(a) Piping within the area subject to freezing shall be filled
with anti-freezing solution and shall be arranged so as to prevent
diffusion of water into that area.
(b) Anti-freezing solutions shall have a freezing point of not
less than 10C below the minimum temperature possible in the area
subject to freezing.
(c) The area covered by any tail-end anti-freezing solution
system shall not exceed 250 m2.
(d) The piping shall be arranged so that the interface between
the anti-freezing solution and the water in the wet system is lower
than the point of connection to the wet system.
(e) The following valves and fittings shall be incorporated in
the piping:
(i) A subsidiary stop valve monitored in accordance with Clause
3.4.
(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.
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DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETRES
FIGURE 2.1.2.9 ARRANGEMENT OF SUPPLY PIPING AND VALVES, AND
TAIL-END ANTI-FREEZING SOLUTION SYSTEM
2.1.3 Special sprinkler systems
2.1.3.1 General requirements
A special sprinkler system, as defined in Clause 1.3.26, shall
be arranged to operate as one or a combination of the
following:
(a) Wet system.
(b) Alternate wet and dry system.
(c) Dry system.
(d) Pre-action system.
(e) Recycling pre-action system.
(f) 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.
2.1.3.2 Specific requirements
2.1.3.2.1 General
Special sprinkler systems shall incorporate special sprinklers
installed in accordance with the spacing, location, maximum and
minimum pressure limitations, and other requirements set out in
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(a) the listing for the specific sprinkler;
(b) the manufacturers published data sheets, and
(c) the codes and Standards referenced therein.
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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) Concealed spaces are protected in accordance with Clause
5.6.
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.
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2.1.4 Sprinkler compatibility
Except where localized higher than normal ambient temperatures
exist (see Clause 6.5), all sprinklers installed in a compartment
shall be of the same category of heat response (RTI), temperature
rating, K factor, type (Standard or Special) and sub type (Large
Orifice, Large Drop, ESFR, etc.).
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S E C T I O N 3 E X T E N T O F P R O T E C T I O N A N D S Y S
T E M M O N I T O R I N G
3.1 PROTECTION AGAINST EXPOSURE HAZARDS
3.1.1 General
Where compliance with the BCA requires an external wall to be
protected by a sprinkler system, clauses 3.1.2 to 3.1.7 shall
apply.
3.1.2 Sprinklers
All sealed sprinklers used for exposure protection shall be
rated as fast response, as defined in AS 4118.1.1, and shall have a
temperature rating of 93C.
Sprinklers shall be any of the following types and
orientation:
(a) Pendent spray (SP)mounted horizontally with the deflector
towards the window or wall.
(b) Upright spray (SU)mounted horizontally with the deflector
away from the window or wall.
(c) Pendent sidewall(WP) mounted pendent and oriented to direct
the spray towards the window or wall.
(d) Pendent sidewall(WP) mounted horizontally and oriented to
direct the spray downwards and parallel to the window or wall.
(e) Horizontal sidewall(WH) mounted pendent and oriented to
direct the spray downwards and parallel to the window or wall.
(f) 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 sprinkl