1. Wet pipe sprinklers: These are the most common type of fire sprinklers in use today. They are filled with water and are constantly pressurized. When the sprinkler head detects heat, it opens automatically, releasing the water. The water then extinguishes the flames.
2. Dry pipe sprinklers: These sprinklers are used in areas where freezing temperatures may occur. They are filled with air, and when the sprinkler head detects heat, it releases the air. This releases the water, which then extinguishes the fire.
3. Pre-action sprinklers: These sprinklers require two triggers to activate. First, the detection system identifies smoke, heat, or a combination of the two, and sends an alert to the sprinkler control panel. Once the panel receives the signal, it opens a valve that allows water to enter the pipes. When a sprinkler head detects heat, it opens, releasing the water.
4. Foam sprinklers: These sprinklers use a foam solution instead of water. They are typically used in areas where flammable liquids are stored, such as chemical processing plants or oil refineries. The foam forms a layer on top of the fuel and extinguishes the fire.
5. Deluge sprinklers: These sprinklers are used in locations where quick activation is critical, such as in power plants or aircraft hangars. The sprinkler system is open, and all the heads release water simultaneously when the detection system is triggered.