What do fire sprinklers do?

Fire sprinklers are an integral part of fire protection systems in buildings. They are designed to automatically detect and extinguish fires, or at least control them until firefighters arrive. Here's how they work:

1. Detection: Fire sprinklers are typically connected to a network of pipes filled with water or another extinguishing agent. Each sprinkler head is equipped with a heat-sensitive element, usually a glass bulb or a fusible link, that reacts to the heat of a fire.

2. Activation: When the temperature in the vicinity of a sprinkler head reaches a certain threshold, typically between 135°F (57°C) and 165°F (74°C), the heat-sensitive element breaks, causing the sprinkler head to activate.

3. Discharge: Once activated, the sprinkler head releases water or other extinguishing agent onto the fire below. The water flow from a sprinkler head is typically aimed in a specific pattern to effectively cover the area at risk of fire.

4. Control and Suppression: The water discharged from the sprinkler head serves to control the fire by cooling the surrounding area and wetting combustible materials, preventing the fire from spreading further. In some cases, sprinklers can completely extinguish the fire if it is small enough or if the sprinkler system is designed for quick response.

5. Local Activation: It's important to note that fire sprinklers are designed to activate individually, only in the areas where the fire is present or where the temperature has risen to the activation point. This helps minimize water damage to unaffected areas of the building.

Fire sprinklers are highly effective in reducing property damage and saving lives during a fire emergency. They provide an immediate response to fire, often containing it or extinguishing it before it can cause extensive damage or threaten occupants' safety.